Blinking Light
A couple of weeks ago I was driving my wife’s van and this little annoying light just appeared on the dashboard. It is only a “picture” of an engine. I ignored for a while I guess thinking it would just go away. It didn’t. Thought about just putting a piece of tape over so we couldn’t see it. You see this vehicle doesn’t have many miles on it so how could it be a problem. Decided against that. Saw Clayton (one of our WhoSoEvers) Saturday and decided maybe I should heed this early warning sign and let him come get it Monday and take to their shop. Maybe it just needs an oil change. We’ll see.
You see, the manufacturers of the van designed it in such a way that when the engine was having some problems, when there were some signs that something was wrong or going to become wrong, that check engine light would begin to blink. And when that check engine light comes on, it’s a call to action. Now you can ignore it. You can cover it with tape. You can pretend like everything is okay. But it is not to your advantage to ignore the blinking light on the dashboard of your car. If you do something about it now, it could save you a small fortune later, a lot of stress down the road.
And in our lives, God has what we’ll call an “Early Warning System.” He has these blinking lights that begin to show up on the dashboard of our lives to get our attention, to help us realize some areas that need some help. And when those lights come on, when God sends us His warning signals, it is an invitation to us to take action, to get some help, to spiritually wake up, to make some changes. Yet a lot of us cover it with electric tape.
Maybe…maybe right now in your life there are some early warning signals. There are some blinking lights that are flashing, some areas—maybe a marriage, maybe in your family, maybe your spiritual life—where God is trying to get your attention. So in this series we’re going to talk about God’s Early Warning Systems. God tries to draw our attention to areas of our life that we need to ask for His help (in) or we need to make some changes.
We are not given these warnings from an angry judge but rather from a loving father. God gives us warnings in our lives because He wants what is best for us. So these warnings that we’re going to be talking about…these are not the bad news of Scripture. This is good news that God warns us because He cares about us.
There are many examples in the Old Testament where God is giving his people warning signs – their “blinking light”. In 2 Chronicles 36:15a we read) “The LORD, the God of their ancestors, repeatedly sent his prophets to warn them…”.
Then we see His motivation. It says in 15b, “for he had compassion on his people…”.” So it’s out of God’s love for us that He warns us, that He activates His warning system and gives us these blinking lights. That if we pay attention to them, if we look at the dashboard of our life and we see these areas that need attention, it can save us all kinds of heartache and all kinds of stress later down the road.
Most of us know the story of Abel and Cain (if not see Genesis 4:2-4:16) – the sons of Adam and Eve. Short version – The brothers each bring a sacrifice to God. Abel’s is acceptable to God but Cain’s isn’t. Instead of seeking what God wanted he developed an “attitude”. God warns him! “Why are you so angry?” the LORD asked Cain. “Why do you look so dejected? You will be accepted if you do what is right. But if you refuse to do what is right, then watch out! Sin is crouching at the door, eager to control you. But you must subdue it and be its master.” Genesis 4:6-7
But Cain doesn’t see this as a warning. He takes a piece of tape; he covers the blinking light. He moves ahead and does what he wants to do. And…and everything just comes crashing down around Cain.
Now this is a story that we’ve become fairly familiar with. We could all probably point to examples in our own life or of other people who have been warned by God, people who have been given opportunity after opportunity to listen to God and to do things God’s way but they don’t do it. For whatever reason, the blinking light…they just ignore it. They go at it their own way.
It’s not to hard to look back and see blinking lights we ignored in our past. We can see them in hindsight where God was trying to get our attention. But sometimes it is hard to see it when we really need…really need the warning.
But let’s look on the dashboard of our lives now. Let’s think about where we are right now and just ask the question, “Is it possible that God is trying to get our attention?” Is it possible that he is calling us to change, that He is wanting us to wake up and He wants us to do it now so that down the road we can be saved all kinds of heartache, and our families, our spiritual life can be saved devastation?
So are there some warning signs in your life? Is God trying to get your attention? Let’s look at just a few of the ways God warns us, some of the blinking lights that will show up. Here is one of the blinking lights that you can expect. God will send you His Word at just the right time. That’s when He speaks to Cain—when sin is crouching outside his door. There is a supernatural power of the Bible to speak into your life at just the right time when you most desperately need to hear it if you’ll have ears to hear. It is the supernatural power of the Word of God.
In order to see this light, we need to be reading His Word; we need to be praying daily, “God, speak into my life with the truth of your Word.” As we do that, we’ll have a better awareness of His warnings and of His guidance in our lives.
Often God uses sermons and lessons like this one as blinking lights. Over the years that I have been teaching, I’ve gotten feedback from people that will say that the lesson that God had given us for a Sunday was for them – some of you in this room and others from our internet ministry. Anybody thinks this was by chance? That I personally knew what was going on? Certainly not – God had a message for us! Is it possible that God is trying to get our attention, that there is a light that is blinking on your dashboard that you need to pay attention to? He will speak into your life at just the right time. But we have to listen.
Another blinking light that God will sometimes send our way is the examples of others who go before us. Whenever Cain’s name is mentioned in the New Testament, it is always used as a bad example. In other words, in the New Testament Cain becomes the blinking light. The New Testament writers point to Cain and say to the rest of us, “Look, be careful. Be careful of following the path that Cain was on because if you do, here is what will happen to you.” First John 3:12 says, “We must not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and killed his brother.” Jude 11, “What sorrow awaits them! For they follow in the footsteps of Cain…”
We have other examples as well—people who are, for us, an example of what will happen if we continue down the path we’re on. There is something about seeing someone else experience the consequences of the decisions we are now making. We see that they made the same decisions we’re now making and here is what happened to them, and it’s an opportunity for God to get our attention.
Mistakes others around us make can serve as a warning to you: “Look, if you keep going down this path, if you keep going in the direction you’re going, you’re going to end up in the same place.” So God will sometimes speak to us…He will sometimes warn us through the life of someone else.
Here is another blinking light that God will use: He will use the words of someone in your life. Now here is the thing. You may not know this, but most people know…like friends and family…they know about your blinking lights. Now, they may not know about their own, but they know about yours. And when you’re not around, your friends and family will talk about the blinking lights on your dashboard. Do you know that? Every once in awhile…not very often… you’ll have one of them who will come to you and say, “Your check engine light is on, and you probably ought to give that some attention.” Now when someone comes to you and points out a blinking light in your life, your response, like most, is to become defensive. “You see my dashboard…? You ought to see your dashboard! My light is blinking; but you motor is “knocking”. Why don’t you change your oil, pal?” So we quickly become defensive … But maybe that is the voice of God in your life. The Bible says in Proverbs 27:6 that “wounds from a friend can be trusted.” Maybe you have a friend who comes to you and says, “I don’t want to overstep here but it seems to me that your drinking has become more and more of a problem. Look, I don’t want to make you upset but I’ve got some real concerns about your teenage son, and I know this is awkward but I feel like I need to talk to you about it.” The tendency is to be defensive, but maybe this is God’s warning system and He has sent someone into your life. Maybe it’s a pastor, or a parent, or a teacher, or a neighbor, or maybe it’s a child or a stranger. They come and they say something to you, and if you’ll have ears to hear you’ll realize this isn’t…this isn’t them speaking. God is saying something to me.
Another blinking light for us is sometimes a sample of future consequences. Here is what God will do. He’ll give us a taste of what the consequences will be if we continue down the path that we’re on. So what He’ll do is He will allow a fender bender to prevent us from a train wreck down the road. Maybe that is where some of you are.
Another blinking light is the supernatural leading from God. We don’t always call it a supernatural leading. We sometimes call it a coincidence. We sometimes call it, you know, chance, luck, or maybe even indigestion. (I personally do not believe in luck or chance for a Christian) We just kind of dismiss it. But it is very likely that God speaks to us more than we realize. But we just don’t see it. Sometimes we can see it and we go like ---, “How can you not see it? God is trying to get your attention here! How can you not see it? How can you think that is just chance?” But we can dismiss it. And I know I can do it too.
So today let’s just look at some of the lights that may be blinking on the dashboards of our lives. One of the biggest reasons we miss God’s voice in our lives…one of the biggest reasons we miss those blinking lights is because we’re going so fast. I didn’t even see the light. You need to slow down. So hit the brakes a little bit. Slow down a little bit more now.
We have been talking about blinking lights on the dashboard but let’s switch for a moment to a road sign. It is a sign put up by Jesus: It’s a U-turn sign. It says, “Look, today is the day. Now is the time. It doesn’t have to be this way.” God says turn around, “It’s not too late. You can still do the right thing.” The reason it is not too late is because Jesus has paid your price. He has died on the cross for your sins. So He specializes in coming onto the scenes of wrecks and putting the pieces back together if you’ll just turn things over to Him. So there is a light that is flashing on your dashboard. What are you going to do? Ignore it? Put it off? Cover it with a piece of tape? Or will you listen to God’s loving voice in your life warning you to take action?
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Monday, April 4, 2011
The Tax Collector and The Savior or A Story of Grace
The Tax Collector and The Savior or A Story of Grace
Levi lived in the region of Galilee that consisted of small towns and villages. Galilee’s residents weren’t an elite class of people – they were common folk, mostly farmers and fishermen. Yet Jesus chose all his disciples (except for Judas Iscariot) from Galilee. Christ deliberately passed over the religious and influential, and instead chose a group of common (and yes, believe it or not, sinful) men to be His disciples.
Unfortunately, Levi held one of the most despised positions in all of Israel – he was a tax collector – also called a publican. Tax collectors were hated by all of Jewish society, and were even more despised than the Roman soldiers who occupied Israel at that time.
Tax collectors were men who bought tax franchises from the Roman emperor and then extorted money from the people of Israel – this money was added to the Roman treasury and also padded the pockets of the tax collector. Tax collectors had no moral integrity, and wouldn’t hesitate to use force to get their pay. They were despicable lowlifes of society and were treated as such.
For a Jewish man like Levi to be a tax collector was even worse. His occupation made him a traitor to the nation, a complete social outcast. He was in essence worse off religiously than a Gentile, one of them “other’ people.
In the parable of the tax collector and the Pharisee in Luke 18:10-14, the tax collector stood “at a distance”. He had to - tax collectors had to keep their distance from any group, because they were so hated.
So, yes, Levi was a sinner and more – a despised tax collector.
Yet, what a wonderful thing happened to this sinner! – “…as Jesus left the town, he saw a tax collector named Levi sitting at his tax collector’s booth. “Follow me and be my disciple,” Jesus said to him. (Luke 5:27)
Oh, by the way, this tax collector also was called Matthew. He became one of Jesus’ apostles and wrote the first book of the New Testament.
He instantly and without hesitation left his old life behind forever, and followed the Lord.
Can you imagine the religious leaders reacted when Jesus called a tax collector to become part of his inner circle? They must have gasped… or even worse!
Matthew began his book listing the Jesus’ lineage or his ancestors. And this list was not an “unflawed” group of people. Within the lineage of Jesus the Messiah, was a handful of colorful characters. There were liars, swindlers, and lawbreakers. There was a murderer, a slave trader, an adulterer, and a prostitute.
When Jesus began his ministry, he found the nation of Israel divided over the issue of personal righteousness; that is, how a person gains and maintains good standing with God. One group argued that a person could earn a right standing with God by keeping the law. To do this, however, they had to perfect the art of self-delusion. In addition to that, they had to dumb down certain commandments to bring them in alignment with the behaviors they had no intention of changing.
On the other hand there were those who refused to live in a continuous state of denial regarding their personal unrighteousness. If the Law was the standard, they knew they would never be good enough to earn God's favor. So they simply kept their distance. Mutual contempt held the self-righteous and the self-condemned full resentment toward each other. The self-righteous considered themselves better than the admittedly unrighteous. And the unrighteous felt judged by the so-called righteous, while at the same time seeing the hypocrisy between what they claimed to be and what they actually were.
By the time Jesus showed up, the temple had become the place where this division was most evident. Jesus illustrated the problem with a parable, most likely based on an actual event. “Two men went to the Temple to pray. One was a Pharisee, and the other was a despised tax collector. The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed this prayer: ‘I thank you, God, that I am not a sinner like everyone else. For I don’t cheat, I don’t sin, and I don’t commit adultery. I’m certainly not like that tax collector! I fast twice a week, and I give you a tenth of my income. But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, ‘O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner.’ (Luke 18:10-14)
That pretty much summed it up: one group who are not as good as they think they are, and another group who know they are not as good as they need to be. And there they were, together in the temple, the very place where God desired to dwell with men and atone for their sin. The very design of the temple with its various gates and plazas stood as an invitation to sinners, both Jewish and non-Jewish. (That’s why there was a “Court of the Gentiles”). In the temple there was no room for self-righteousness and there was no need to cower behind one's sinfulness. But, it seemed everyone had missed the point. The self-righteous chased sinners away and their own shame kept the sinners running.
And then Jesus showed up. He came to break the stalemate (or tie) between self-deluded self-righteous folks and “honest to goodness” sinners. He came to shine a penetrating light of reality on the self-righteous and to offer those who were full of shame a way back. When Jesus met Matthew, he certainly needed a way back. So when Jesus said, "Follow me," that's exactly what Matthew did. He got up and followed. But Jesus didn't lead him to the temple. He invited himself over to Matthew's house. And oddly enough, Matthew didn't object. In fact, he got the word out to his friends that he was throwing an impromptu party and that everybody was invited.
Before long, Matthew's home was filled with fellow tax collectors, along with a broad assortment of less-than-righteous riffraff from all around the city. The Rahabs, Bathshebas, Judahs, and Davids of Capernaum all showed up for this unique celebration. They dined on Matthew's food and drank his wine, along with Jesus and his posse, who probably laughed and sang with Matthew's motley collection of religious and social outcasts. There under one roof was righteousness personified, celebrating right alongside unrighteousness on steroids. On that hot Middle Eastern afternoon, Matthew's home became a place of grace. For a brief time it served as a substitute temple of sorts. Here the righteous and the unrighteous had come together as they were, with no pretense for being anything other than who they knew themselves to be. And Jesus was supremely comfortable. Don't rush by that too quickly. Jesus, God in a body, was not uncomfortable surrounded by those who most needed the bridge back to God that only grace could provide.
But not everybody felt the way Jesus did. Standing on the outside of that unusual dinner party were the religious icons of the community. The teachers of the Law. The Pharisees. The good people. Even if they were invited, they would never dream of entering a so-called sinner's home. To do so would be to compromise their ceremonial purity. One touch from a sinner such as Matthew would require hours of washing. For this group, sin was a communicable disease. So it was always best to keep one's distance. As they huddled together, casting disparaging glances toward the party, they grumbled to some of Jesus' disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with such scum? (Matt. 9:11).
Interesting question. We must assume they asked this because they really did not understand how a man who claimed to be from God would get so close to those who were nothing like God. How was it that a man who was nothing like Matthew seemed to like Matthew? They had no category for this. And they had no patience for it either.
When Jesus heard about the objections of the religious elite gathered outside, he sent them a message: “Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do." (Matt. 9:12). Jesus was playing to their thinking for the moment. They assumed they were healthy. They assumed Matthew and his crew were sick. Jesus then quoted an Old Testament passage (Hosea 6:6) that would have been very familiar to the Pharisees. He said, "I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices.” (Matthew 9:13b) The Greek word for mercy was the term used to describe God's grace. "I desire grace, not sacrifice." His point? God prioritizes grace over sacrifice. Then Jesus offered them his one-sentence mission statement: "I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners" (Matt. 9:13).
Here, Jesus used the terms righteous and sinners with pointed sarcasm. It was his way of saying, "I have not come to call those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners." If we could freeze that moment in time, we would be left with a startling and perhaps uncomfortable truth: grace is inviting to the unrighteous and threatening to the self-righteous.
Jesus' invitation for Matthew to become his follower, combined with his presence at Matthew's home, confirmed beyond all doubt that grace is not earned; it is offered. This was not a new idea. It was as old as the Garden of Eden. But as would happen time and time again, the simple message of grace had been buried under a mountain of religious complexity - complexity created by men who sought to earn their righteousness rather than admit, and rest in, the truth that there is no righteousness apart from that which is given by grace.
The tension between the self-righteous and the self-exiled did not end with the coming of Jesus. It is a tension that exists to this very day. So maybe this would be a good time to stop and ask ourselves, "To which side of the aisle do I tend to lean?" If we had been invited to Matthew's party, would we have hesitated? Would our first inclination be to stand on the outside and wonder? Would we wonder why Jesus would fellowship with sinners before confronting their sin? Would we be concerned that by not addressing their sin Jesus was in some way condoning it?
Or would you lean the other way? Are there things about your current lifestyle or perhaps your past that would give you pause before walking into the presence of Jesus? Would a cloud of shame form overhead? Would you be tempted to stand outside in the hopes of catching a glimpse while avoiding eye contact? After all, we know. We know who we are and who we pretend to be. To bring all of that into the presence of pure righteousness? Wouldn’t we be crazy not to pause? Or would we?
Chances are, there's a little bit of both in all of us. We are judgmental of certain types of people or behaviors, and then we can turn around and put ourselves in time-out-self-inflicted exile from the presence of God. But in either case we step onto the well-worn path of graceless religion. Either way you choose you find yourself further from the grace of God.
Here’s where Matthew would tell us after watching Jesus there's a third way. The way of grace. The way of grace is offered; it is not earned. It is offered to all people, regardless of who they are. So, when you catch yourself bouncing back and forth between judging others and condemning yourself, pause. Pause and remember: you can't be good enough; you don't even have to be. That is the way of grace.
Note: Parts of this lesson are from Andy Stanley’s book: The Grace of God
Levi lived in the region of Galilee that consisted of small towns and villages. Galilee’s residents weren’t an elite class of people – they were common folk, mostly farmers and fishermen. Yet Jesus chose all his disciples (except for Judas Iscariot) from Galilee. Christ deliberately passed over the religious and influential, and instead chose a group of common (and yes, believe it or not, sinful) men to be His disciples.
Unfortunately, Levi held one of the most despised positions in all of Israel – he was a tax collector – also called a publican. Tax collectors were hated by all of Jewish society, and were even more despised than the Roman soldiers who occupied Israel at that time.
Tax collectors were men who bought tax franchises from the Roman emperor and then extorted money from the people of Israel – this money was added to the Roman treasury and also padded the pockets of the tax collector. Tax collectors had no moral integrity, and wouldn’t hesitate to use force to get their pay. They were despicable lowlifes of society and were treated as such.
For a Jewish man like Levi to be a tax collector was even worse. His occupation made him a traitor to the nation, a complete social outcast. He was in essence worse off religiously than a Gentile, one of them “other’ people.
In the parable of the tax collector and the Pharisee in Luke 18:10-14, the tax collector stood “at a distance”. He had to - tax collectors had to keep their distance from any group, because they were so hated.
So, yes, Levi was a sinner and more – a despised tax collector.
Yet, what a wonderful thing happened to this sinner! – “…as Jesus left the town, he saw a tax collector named Levi sitting at his tax collector’s booth. “Follow me and be my disciple,” Jesus said to him. (Luke 5:27)
Oh, by the way, this tax collector also was called Matthew. He became one of Jesus’ apostles and wrote the first book of the New Testament.
He instantly and without hesitation left his old life behind forever, and followed the Lord.
Can you imagine the religious leaders reacted when Jesus called a tax collector to become part of his inner circle? They must have gasped… or even worse!
Matthew began his book listing the Jesus’ lineage or his ancestors. And this list was not an “unflawed” group of people. Within the lineage of Jesus the Messiah, was a handful of colorful characters. There were liars, swindlers, and lawbreakers. There was a murderer, a slave trader, an adulterer, and a prostitute.
When Jesus began his ministry, he found the nation of Israel divided over the issue of personal righteousness; that is, how a person gains and maintains good standing with God. One group argued that a person could earn a right standing with God by keeping the law. To do this, however, they had to perfect the art of self-delusion. In addition to that, they had to dumb down certain commandments to bring them in alignment with the behaviors they had no intention of changing.
On the other hand there were those who refused to live in a continuous state of denial regarding their personal unrighteousness. If the Law was the standard, they knew they would never be good enough to earn God's favor. So they simply kept their distance. Mutual contempt held the self-righteous and the self-condemned full resentment toward each other. The self-righteous considered themselves better than the admittedly unrighteous. And the unrighteous felt judged by the so-called righteous, while at the same time seeing the hypocrisy between what they claimed to be and what they actually were.
By the time Jesus showed up, the temple had become the place where this division was most evident. Jesus illustrated the problem with a parable, most likely based on an actual event. “Two men went to the Temple to pray. One was a Pharisee, and the other was a despised tax collector. The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed this prayer: ‘I thank you, God, that I am not a sinner like everyone else. For I don’t cheat, I don’t sin, and I don’t commit adultery. I’m certainly not like that tax collector! I fast twice a week, and I give you a tenth of my income. But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, ‘O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner.’ (Luke 18:10-14)
That pretty much summed it up: one group who are not as good as they think they are, and another group who know they are not as good as they need to be. And there they were, together in the temple, the very place where God desired to dwell with men and atone for their sin. The very design of the temple with its various gates and plazas stood as an invitation to sinners, both Jewish and non-Jewish. (That’s why there was a “Court of the Gentiles”). In the temple there was no room for self-righteousness and there was no need to cower behind one's sinfulness. But, it seemed everyone had missed the point. The self-righteous chased sinners away and their own shame kept the sinners running.
And then Jesus showed up. He came to break the stalemate (or tie) between self-deluded self-righteous folks and “honest to goodness” sinners. He came to shine a penetrating light of reality on the self-righteous and to offer those who were full of shame a way back. When Jesus met Matthew, he certainly needed a way back. So when Jesus said, "Follow me," that's exactly what Matthew did. He got up and followed. But Jesus didn't lead him to the temple. He invited himself over to Matthew's house. And oddly enough, Matthew didn't object. In fact, he got the word out to his friends that he was throwing an impromptu party and that everybody was invited.
Before long, Matthew's home was filled with fellow tax collectors, along with a broad assortment of less-than-righteous riffraff from all around the city. The Rahabs, Bathshebas, Judahs, and Davids of Capernaum all showed up for this unique celebration. They dined on Matthew's food and drank his wine, along with Jesus and his posse, who probably laughed and sang with Matthew's motley collection of religious and social outcasts. There under one roof was righteousness personified, celebrating right alongside unrighteousness on steroids. On that hot Middle Eastern afternoon, Matthew's home became a place of grace. For a brief time it served as a substitute temple of sorts. Here the righteous and the unrighteous had come together as they were, with no pretense for being anything other than who they knew themselves to be. And Jesus was supremely comfortable. Don't rush by that too quickly. Jesus, God in a body, was not uncomfortable surrounded by those who most needed the bridge back to God that only grace could provide.
But not everybody felt the way Jesus did. Standing on the outside of that unusual dinner party were the religious icons of the community. The teachers of the Law. The Pharisees. The good people. Even if they were invited, they would never dream of entering a so-called sinner's home. To do so would be to compromise their ceremonial purity. One touch from a sinner such as Matthew would require hours of washing. For this group, sin was a communicable disease. So it was always best to keep one's distance. As they huddled together, casting disparaging glances toward the party, they grumbled to some of Jesus' disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with such scum? (Matt. 9:11).
Interesting question. We must assume they asked this because they really did not understand how a man who claimed to be from God would get so close to those who were nothing like God. How was it that a man who was nothing like Matthew seemed to like Matthew? They had no category for this. And they had no patience for it either.
When Jesus heard about the objections of the religious elite gathered outside, he sent them a message: “Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do." (Matt. 9:12). Jesus was playing to their thinking for the moment. They assumed they were healthy. They assumed Matthew and his crew were sick. Jesus then quoted an Old Testament passage (Hosea 6:6) that would have been very familiar to the Pharisees. He said, "I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices.” (Matthew 9:13b) The Greek word for mercy was the term used to describe God's grace. "I desire grace, not sacrifice." His point? God prioritizes grace over sacrifice. Then Jesus offered them his one-sentence mission statement: "I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners" (Matt. 9:13).
Here, Jesus used the terms righteous and sinners with pointed sarcasm. It was his way of saying, "I have not come to call those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners." If we could freeze that moment in time, we would be left with a startling and perhaps uncomfortable truth: grace is inviting to the unrighteous and threatening to the self-righteous.
Jesus' invitation for Matthew to become his follower, combined with his presence at Matthew's home, confirmed beyond all doubt that grace is not earned; it is offered. This was not a new idea. It was as old as the Garden of Eden. But as would happen time and time again, the simple message of grace had been buried under a mountain of religious complexity - complexity created by men who sought to earn their righteousness rather than admit, and rest in, the truth that there is no righteousness apart from that which is given by grace.
The tension between the self-righteous and the self-exiled did not end with the coming of Jesus. It is a tension that exists to this very day. So maybe this would be a good time to stop and ask ourselves, "To which side of the aisle do I tend to lean?" If we had been invited to Matthew's party, would we have hesitated? Would our first inclination be to stand on the outside and wonder? Would we wonder why Jesus would fellowship with sinners before confronting their sin? Would we be concerned that by not addressing their sin Jesus was in some way condoning it?
Or would you lean the other way? Are there things about your current lifestyle or perhaps your past that would give you pause before walking into the presence of Jesus? Would a cloud of shame form overhead? Would you be tempted to stand outside in the hopes of catching a glimpse while avoiding eye contact? After all, we know. We know who we are and who we pretend to be. To bring all of that into the presence of pure righteousness? Wouldn’t we be crazy not to pause? Or would we?
Chances are, there's a little bit of both in all of us. We are judgmental of certain types of people or behaviors, and then we can turn around and put ourselves in time-out-self-inflicted exile from the presence of God. But in either case we step onto the well-worn path of graceless religion. Either way you choose you find yourself further from the grace of God.
Here’s where Matthew would tell us after watching Jesus there's a third way. The way of grace. The way of grace is offered; it is not earned. It is offered to all people, regardless of who they are. So, when you catch yourself bouncing back and forth between judging others and condemning yourself, pause. Pause and remember: you can't be good enough; you don't even have to be. That is the way of grace.
Note: Parts of this lesson are from Andy Stanley’s book: The Grace of God
Monday, March 21, 2011
I Am Not A Fan of Jesus!
I Am Not A Fan of Jesus!
Sometimes when preparing a lesson, I “worry” that it may hit someone in the class or somone who is reading the lesson very hard. I really want people to come to our class or continue to read the lessons on the WhoSoEver “blog” or in an email or on Facebook. I really want people to continue to “Forward” our email lesson to others! But wouldn’t that really be selling Jesus cheap and watering down the gospel in hopes that more of you will read our lessons online, that more will come to hear the lessons? And that's why this Sunday we're talking about whether or not we are prepared to just be an excitable fan of the Lord Jesus Christ, awed by His miracles, caught up in His stories and parables, or have we really made a decision to be committed to the only Lord of Glory, to belong to Him in such a way that it doesn't matter whatever happens, whatever comes, whatever anyone says.
This is one of these “worry” lessons. But here it is anyway! NOTE: Remember that I often say in class that God has done “wore me out” with the lesson before it gets to y’all!
Today, let’s look at defining the relationship (DTR) between us and Jesus. What exactly is the commitment level? Now some of us may get a little uncomfortable, a little anxious…you may even have a fight or flight response because you kind of like the current arrangement you have with Jesus. He seems like a good guy – and you like having something to do on the weekends – what it comes down to is this - you want to have a relationship with Jesus with all the benefits but none of the commitment. A No Strings Attached arrangement – where you can connect with him from time to time – but it doesn’t really mess with your life. You want to be a fan of Jesus – but not a follower. Have you ever looked seriously at Luke 9:23? Seriously?
In this passage Jesus put it this way: “….If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow Me.” NASB
The New Living Translations says: “you must turn from your selfish ways”.
A fan is simply defined as an enthusiastic admirer. And the DTR question is this:
Are you a fan or a follower?
As you read through the Gospels you will find example after example where Jesus will put people in a position where they must choose… Sometimes there were large crowds following him like in Luke 14 and John 6 – and Jesus would preach a sermon that would determine who in the crowd were fans and who were followers.
Jesus was never impressed by the size of this crowd, it’s the commitment level that he cares about. A concern with our churches today is that when we gather together - there is the possibility that instead of a community of followers we are nothing more than a stadium full of fans. Where we may wear a cross, but we don’t bear the cross. You can come to church, know all the songs, open your Bible and take notes, walk out to your car with a Jesus fish on the bumper and say grace before lunch, but that doesn’t necessarily make you a follower.
I believe that for years I was more fan than follower. Mainly because I confused knowing about Jesus with knowing Jesus. But there is a difference between knowledge and intimacy. Many of people think it is their knowledge and their good behavior that makes a good follower. Has this been or is this how we may think? We love Jesus and we know a lot about Jesus – but we don’t know Jesus. We don’t talk to him about our day – we aren’t listening for him to speak into our lives. See, a lot of us don’t mind Jesus once a week on Sunday. We don’t mind making some minor change in our lives but Jesus wants to turn our lives upside down – we want him to do a little touch up work, but Jesus wants complete renovation – we come thinking tune-up but Jesus is thinking overhaul – we think just a little makeup is what we need and Jesus is thinking makeover. We think a little decorating is required, and Jesus wants a compete remodel.
A pastor got an email that informed him of a person who wanted to be removed as a member of the church because they didn’t like his sermons. That was the reason given. After making sure it wasn’t his wife , he decided to pick up the phone and call the person. When the man answered the phone, the pastor identified himself and said, “I understand you are leaving the church because you don’t like my sermons…" This caught the man off guard, there was an awkward silence, and then he started talking, rambling really, trying to express what he meant. But somewhere in his lengthy explanation he said something…and the pastor wrote it down…because when he said it the pastor breathed such a sigh of relief that that tears literally came to his eyes. Here what the ex-member said – "Well…whenever I listen to your messages I feel like you’re trying to interfere with my life." Now he didn’t mean that as but it was a compliment – in fact it’s really more of a job description of a pastor – to teach the Bible in way that interferes with your life.
But the truth is that it is only in letting Jesus interfere with our lives – that we find real life. Jesus didn’t come to this earth so that you would be better behaved or to tweak your personality or fine-tune your manners or smooth out your rough spots. He wants total transformation. The objective of the gospel is not to make you a well-behaved person but to turn your life upside down. When we quit fighting for the controls of our lives and surrender everything to him – when we “give up our selfish ways” and live for him, we find life that that is truly life.
In Luke 9:23, Jesus says that if we want to follow him we must deny ourselves and take up our cross daily. But at the end of this chapter Jesus gives three examples of people who are potential followers, but are shown to be fans – just enthusiastic admirers. And here’s what we find – what keeps them from following – is really what keeps most of us from following.
We find the 1st fan verse 57. As they were walking along the road, a man said to him, "I will follow you wherever you go." He’s at least talking a good game. But look at verse 58. Jesus replied, "Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head." Jesus draws attention to the fact that this man loved comfort more than following him. And maybe that’s what’s keeping you. Because the call of Jesus to take up our cross and follow him – is in direct conflict with our desire to be comfortable. We are by nature comfort seekers.
A follower is not asking the question “How can I be comfortable?” Many of us are not following Jesus – we’re following comfort. We’ve made comfort our God – it’s what we live for – work for – and sacrifice for. But there’s nothing comfortable about the call to follow Jesus.
So as you determine the relationship we have with Jesus, let’s ask ourselves a question:
Is the relationship one of convenience, or is it committed?
This man in verse 57 spoke words of commitment, but when Jesus painted him a picture of what that commitment looked like the man seemed to back off. There are a lot of people who have made a decision to believe in Jesus – but never really committed to Jesus.
Many of us are committed until it becomes inconvenient and uncomfortable. Many Christians approach their commitment to Jesus and Bible. I really like Jesus – but I don’t really like serving the poor – I like the idea of going to church – but my resources (time and/or $) are spoken for. I love Jesus but this area of my life – but when I’m with these friends – when I am at this place...I’m not 100 percent committed.
And so they will say, I want to follow Jesus but don’t ask me to forgive the person who hurt me. Don’t ask me to release that bitterness and resentment I’m not going to let that go. I want to follow Jesus but don’t ask me to give a percentage of my money. I worked hard for that. I’ll follow Jesus but don’t talking to me about my sex life –. I can’t help my desires. We wear the name Christian and then we pick and choose - the teachings of Jesus that we’re going to follow – as if the teachings of the Bible were a buffet, where you just take what looks good to you and don’t worry about the rest.
We would never do that – but that is what fans do.
Most parents want their kids to have a little bit of God – they want their kids to have some Biblical morals. But one of the most dangerous ways to be raised is with a little bit of Jesus…it’s like an inoculation. A little bit can make you immune to the real thing.
In verse 59-60 we meet fan number 2. “He said to another man, "Follow me." But the man replied, "Lord, first let me go and bury my father." Jesus said to him, "Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and proclaim the kingdom of God." One of the first words out the guy’s mouth is “First.” The first thing he does is put Jesus off. I want to follow, I really do, but not right now. And so we say I’ll start tomorrow…this is my last time…when I’m out of college…when I get married…when we have kids…when I get a less demanding job. Instead of getting out of bed we just keep hitting the snooze alarm – just 10 more minutes we tell ourselves.
Maybe you hear this man’s excuse for putting Jesus off – he wants to go bury his father – and think Jesus is being a little too hard core. Let the guy go bury his dad. Well, most likely he father wasn’t even sick. This was a way for the man to say – when my parents die…then I will follow you. When I get the inheritance…when I know they won’t disapprove – then I will follow you. But his excuse isn’t enough for Jesus. I’m not sure what is holding you back. It may be something that seems very legitimate – but Jesus says the time is now.
And the third fan is in verse 61-62. “Still another said, "I will follow you, Lord; but first let me go back and say good-by to my family." Jesus replied, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God." Jesus isn’t looking for half-hearted followers. Following him part-time isn’t an option. He has no interest in Sunday Christians that say they will follow him but are always looking over their shoulder wondering if they are missing out and second guessing their decision. Jesus explains that following him in not something you do part-time or half-way.
And so the invitation hasn’t changed since Luke wrote his Gospel. Jesus still says, “If anyone would come after me he must deny himself, take up his cross and follow me.” A great word in this invitation is ANYONE. No matter what your story – no matter what you’ve done, this is the relationship Jesus wants to have with you. Anyone…Anyone who has ever laid awake in bed and thought I would give anything to undo what I’ve done. Anyone who has looked at themselves in the mirror and said I can’t believe what I have become. Anyone is an all-inclusive term – Anyone means everyone. Anyone means me and anyone means you.
Based on lesson by Kyle Idleman
Sometimes when preparing a lesson, I “worry” that it may hit someone in the class or somone who is reading the lesson very hard. I really want people to come to our class or continue to read the lessons on the WhoSoEver “blog” or in an email or on Facebook. I really want people to continue to “Forward” our email lesson to others! But wouldn’t that really be selling Jesus cheap and watering down the gospel in hopes that more of you will read our lessons online, that more will come to hear the lessons? And that's why this Sunday we're talking about whether or not we are prepared to just be an excitable fan of the Lord Jesus Christ, awed by His miracles, caught up in His stories and parables, or have we really made a decision to be committed to the only Lord of Glory, to belong to Him in such a way that it doesn't matter whatever happens, whatever comes, whatever anyone says.
This is one of these “worry” lessons. But here it is anyway! NOTE: Remember that I often say in class that God has done “wore me out” with the lesson before it gets to y’all!
Today, let’s look at defining the relationship (DTR) between us and Jesus. What exactly is the commitment level? Now some of us may get a little uncomfortable, a little anxious…you may even have a fight or flight response because you kind of like the current arrangement you have with Jesus. He seems like a good guy – and you like having something to do on the weekends – what it comes down to is this - you want to have a relationship with Jesus with all the benefits but none of the commitment. A No Strings Attached arrangement – where you can connect with him from time to time – but it doesn’t really mess with your life. You want to be a fan of Jesus – but not a follower. Have you ever looked seriously at Luke 9:23? Seriously?
In this passage Jesus put it this way: “….If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow Me.” NASB
The New Living Translations says: “you must turn from your selfish ways”.
A fan is simply defined as an enthusiastic admirer. And the DTR question is this:
Are you a fan or a follower?
As you read through the Gospels you will find example after example where Jesus will put people in a position where they must choose… Sometimes there were large crowds following him like in Luke 14 and John 6 – and Jesus would preach a sermon that would determine who in the crowd were fans and who were followers.
Jesus was never impressed by the size of this crowd, it’s the commitment level that he cares about. A concern with our churches today is that when we gather together - there is the possibility that instead of a community of followers we are nothing more than a stadium full of fans. Where we may wear a cross, but we don’t bear the cross. You can come to church, know all the songs, open your Bible and take notes, walk out to your car with a Jesus fish on the bumper and say grace before lunch, but that doesn’t necessarily make you a follower.
I believe that for years I was more fan than follower. Mainly because I confused knowing about Jesus with knowing Jesus. But there is a difference between knowledge and intimacy. Many of people think it is their knowledge and their good behavior that makes a good follower. Has this been or is this how we may think? We love Jesus and we know a lot about Jesus – but we don’t know Jesus. We don’t talk to him about our day – we aren’t listening for him to speak into our lives. See, a lot of us don’t mind Jesus once a week on Sunday. We don’t mind making some minor change in our lives but Jesus wants to turn our lives upside down – we want him to do a little touch up work, but Jesus wants complete renovation – we come thinking tune-up but Jesus is thinking overhaul – we think just a little makeup is what we need and Jesus is thinking makeover. We think a little decorating is required, and Jesus wants a compete remodel.
A pastor got an email that informed him of a person who wanted to be removed as a member of the church because they didn’t like his sermons. That was the reason given. After making sure it wasn’t his wife , he decided to pick up the phone and call the person. When the man answered the phone, the pastor identified himself and said, “I understand you are leaving the church because you don’t like my sermons…" This caught the man off guard, there was an awkward silence, and then he started talking, rambling really, trying to express what he meant. But somewhere in his lengthy explanation he said something…and the pastor wrote it down…because when he said it the pastor breathed such a sigh of relief that that tears literally came to his eyes. Here what the ex-member said – "Well…whenever I listen to your messages I feel like you’re trying to interfere with my life." Now he didn’t mean that as but it was a compliment – in fact it’s really more of a job description of a pastor – to teach the Bible in way that interferes with your life.
But the truth is that it is only in letting Jesus interfere with our lives – that we find real life. Jesus didn’t come to this earth so that you would be better behaved or to tweak your personality or fine-tune your manners or smooth out your rough spots. He wants total transformation. The objective of the gospel is not to make you a well-behaved person but to turn your life upside down. When we quit fighting for the controls of our lives and surrender everything to him – when we “give up our selfish ways” and live for him, we find life that that is truly life.
In Luke 9:23, Jesus says that if we want to follow him we must deny ourselves and take up our cross daily. But at the end of this chapter Jesus gives three examples of people who are potential followers, but are shown to be fans – just enthusiastic admirers. And here’s what we find – what keeps them from following – is really what keeps most of us from following.
We find the 1st fan verse 57. As they were walking along the road, a man said to him, "I will follow you wherever you go." He’s at least talking a good game. But look at verse 58. Jesus replied, "Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head." Jesus draws attention to the fact that this man loved comfort more than following him. And maybe that’s what’s keeping you. Because the call of Jesus to take up our cross and follow him – is in direct conflict with our desire to be comfortable. We are by nature comfort seekers.
A follower is not asking the question “How can I be comfortable?” Many of us are not following Jesus – we’re following comfort. We’ve made comfort our God – it’s what we live for – work for – and sacrifice for. But there’s nothing comfortable about the call to follow Jesus.
So as you determine the relationship we have with Jesus, let’s ask ourselves a question:
Is the relationship one of convenience, or is it committed?
This man in verse 57 spoke words of commitment, but when Jesus painted him a picture of what that commitment looked like the man seemed to back off. There are a lot of people who have made a decision to believe in Jesus – but never really committed to Jesus.
Many of us are committed until it becomes inconvenient and uncomfortable. Many Christians approach their commitment to Jesus and Bible. I really like Jesus – but I don’t really like serving the poor – I like the idea of going to church – but my resources (time and/or $) are spoken for. I love Jesus but this area of my life – but when I’m with these friends – when I am at this place...I’m not 100 percent committed.
And so they will say, I want to follow Jesus but don’t ask me to forgive the person who hurt me. Don’t ask me to release that bitterness and resentment I’m not going to let that go. I want to follow Jesus but don’t ask me to give a percentage of my money. I worked hard for that. I’ll follow Jesus but don’t talking to me about my sex life –. I can’t help my desires. We wear the name Christian and then we pick and choose - the teachings of Jesus that we’re going to follow – as if the teachings of the Bible were a buffet, where you just take what looks good to you and don’t worry about the rest.
We would never do that – but that is what fans do.
Most parents want their kids to have a little bit of God – they want their kids to have some Biblical morals. But one of the most dangerous ways to be raised is with a little bit of Jesus…it’s like an inoculation. A little bit can make you immune to the real thing.
In verse 59-60 we meet fan number 2. “He said to another man, "Follow me." But the man replied, "Lord, first let me go and bury my father." Jesus said to him, "Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and proclaim the kingdom of God." One of the first words out the guy’s mouth is “First.” The first thing he does is put Jesus off. I want to follow, I really do, but not right now. And so we say I’ll start tomorrow…this is my last time…when I’m out of college…when I get married…when we have kids…when I get a less demanding job. Instead of getting out of bed we just keep hitting the snooze alarm – just 10 more minutes we tell ourselves.
Maybe you hear this man’s excuse for putting Jesus off – he wants to go bury his father – and think Jesus is being a little too hard core. Let the guy go bury his dad. Well, most likely he father wasn’t even sick. This was a way for the man to say – when my parents die…then I will follow you. When I get the inheritance…when I know they won’t disapprove – then I will follow you. But his excuse isn’t enough for Jesus. I’m not sure what is holding you back. It may be something that seems very legitimate – but Jesus says the time is now.
And the third fan is in verse 61-62. “Still another said, "I will follow you, Lord; but first let me go back and say good-by to my family." Jesus replied, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God." Jesus isn’t looking for half-hearted followers. Following him part-time isn’t an option. He has no interest in Sunday Christians that say they will follow him but are always looking over their shoulder wondering if they are missing out and second guessing their decision. Jesus explains that following him in not something you do part-time or half-way.
And so the invitation hasn’t changed since Luke wrote his Gospel. Jesus still says, “If anyone would come after me he must deny himself, take up his cross and follow me.” A great word in this invitation is ANYONE. No matter what your story – no matter what you’ve done, this is the relationship Jesus wants to have with you. Anyone…Anyone who has ever laid awake in bed and thought I would give anything to undo what I’ve done. Anyone who has looked at themselves in the mirror and said I can’t believe what I have become. Anyone is an all-inclusive term – Anyone means everyone. Anyone means me and anyone means you.
Based on lesson by Kyle Idleman
Saturday, March 19, 2011
God’s Chisel - We Are GOD’S Masterpiece.
For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them. Ephesians 2:10 (NASB)
For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2:10 (NLT)
We see flaws, God sees a Masterpiece. He may have to “chisel” on us some but we are His “masterpiece”. And when God chisels the dead weight out of our lives it can be very painful.
God’s Chisel
This video / skit was the basis of the lesson. Please watch. It is only 9 minutes. So far I have watched it about 10 times and find another mini-message each time in the dialog.
Video can be seen on YouTube at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AhfUzodLRvk
A masterpiece is a person's greatest piece of work. That creation which over time is acclaimed by his peers as the artist’s or craftsman’s very best work. However, when we are talking about God’s masterpiece it’s not something that can be framed – performed or displayed on a pedestal.
God’s creation is all around us – above us and beneath us. It is both physical and spiritual – temporal and eternal. How can we ever determine which is His greatest piece of work – His masterpiece? Where should we even begin? Is it a mountain range – a water falls – a rain forest – a flower – a precious gem or mineral – sunsets or the northern lights? Could it be one of the countless heavenly bodies He has flung into endless space? Could it be heaven - one of the holy angels or heavenly beings which worship Him continually? No, none of these are His greatest work!
Left purely to human insight, we would have never recognized God’s greatest piece of work. But one of His “peers,” the Holy Spirit, revealed the secret - born again believers are God’s masterpiece. Nothing in all of creation comes close to what He accomplished when He created us anew in Christ Jesus. Paul received this divine revelation and writes, “Once you were dead because of your disobedience and your many sins……. But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. ……..So God can point to us in all future ages as examples of the incredible wealth of his grace and kindness toward us, as shown in all he has done for us who are united with Christ Jesus. ……..For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” (From Ephesians 2)
That act of grace in the life of the believer is God’s greatest piece of work, making us God’s masterpiece!!
God didn't just save us FROM sin and death, but he saved us FOR an eternal life of beauty and purpose.
The same God who paints a different sunset each evening and who splashed touches of his glory throughout the creation that he has made is the Artist who has created you for a special purpose. He put you together with that purpose in mind when you were still in your mother's womb (Psalm 139:13-16) and re-created you when you were born of the Spirit (Colossians 3:10) and re-made to share in his glory (Colossians 3:4). To help you on your journey, God has given you certain gifts to use for his people, to bring him glory, and to help you find joy in your service (1 Peter 4:10-11).
In our worst moments, we wonder about our purpose, our value, and our significance. In those moments, let's look at the beautiful universe God has created and then push back the voice of Satan who is trying to make us feel valueless and hear the voice of God, "You are my masterpiece, created to bring a blessing."
Don't ever let go of that promise. You may not ever know exactly how this promise is true until you sit in glory with him and meet others who were touched by the beauty God revealed in you — people you never knew were touched by you. Remember, many of the great works of art were not appreciated in the day they were crafted, but over time, their significance, beauty, and power have blessed thousands.
You are God's masterpiece. Don't believe anything less about yourself. Your value is set by your Creator! The heavens declare the glory of God simply by their very existence, doing what he made them to do. So do you!
For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2:10 (NLT)
We see flaws, God sees a Masterpiece. He may have to “chisel” on us some but we are His “masterpiece”. And when God chisels the dead weight out of our lives it can be very painful.
God’s Chisel
This video / skit was the basis of the lesson. Please watch. It is only 9 minutes. So far I have watched it about 10 times and find another mini-message each time in the dialog.
Video can be seen on YouTube at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AhfUzodLRvk
A masterpiece is a person's greatest piece of work. That creation which over time is acclaimed by his peers as the artist’s or craftsman’s very best work. However, when we are talking about God’s masterpiece it’s not something that can be framed – performed or displayed on a pedestal.
God’s creation is all around us – above us and beneath us. It is both physical and spiritual – temporal and eternal. How can we ever determine which is His greatest piece of work – His masterpiece? Where should we even begin? Is it a mountain range – a water falls – a rain forest – a flower – a precious gem or mineral – sunsets or the northern lights? Could it be one of the countless heavenly bodies He has flung into endless space? Could it be heaven - one of the holy angels or heavenly beings which worship Him continually? No, none of these are His greatest work!
Left purely to human insight, we would have never recognized God’s greatest piece of work. But one of His “peers,” the Holy Spirit, revealed the secret - born again believers are God’s masterpiece. Nothing in all of creation comes close to what He accomplished when He created us anew in Christ Jesus. Paul received this divine revelation and writes, “Once you were dead because of your disobedience and your many sins……. But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. ……..So God can point to us in all future ages as examples of the incredible wealth of his grace and kindness toward us, as shown in all he has done for us who are united with Christ Jesus. ……..For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” (From Ephesians 2)
That act of grace in the life of the believer is God’s greatest piece of work, making us God’s masterpiece!!
God didn't just save us FROM sin and death, but he saved us FOR an eternal life of beauty and purpose.
The same God who paints a different sunset each evening and who splashed touches of his glory throughout the creation that he has made is the Artist who has created you for a special purpose. He put you together with that purpose in mind when you were still in your mother's womb (Psalm 139:13-16) and re-created you when you were born of the Spirit (Colossians 3:10) and re-made to share in his glory (Colossians 3:4). To help you on your journey, God has given you certain gifts to use for his people, to bring him glory, and to help you find joy in your service (1 Peter 4:10-11).
In our worst moments, we wonder about our purpose, our value, and our significance. In those moments, let's look at the beautiful universe God has created and then push back the voice of Satan who is trying to make us feel valueless and hear the voice of God, "You are my masterpiece, created to bring a blessing."
Don't ever let go of that promise. You may not ever know exactly how this promise is true until you sit in glory with him and meet others who were touched by the beauty God revealed in you — people you never knew were touched by you. Remember, many of the great works of art were not appreciated in the day they were crafted, but over time, their significance, beauty, and power have blessed thousands.
You are God's masterpiece. Don't believe anything less about yourself. Your value is set by your Creator! The heavens declare the glory of God simply by their very existence, doing what he made them to do. So do you!
Monday, March 7, 2011
Lead a Life Worthy of Your Calling: The Old Has Gone and the New Has Come
We are almost through the first quarter of this year. Time flies when we are “having fun”. So, as this “new year” is quickly becoming history, how do we make it more "successful" than past ones? How do we accomplish those things we want and strive to do what we are called to do? And how do we "deal with" the reality that a lot of hopes and dreams won’t happen, this year?
We still have time to try to make a difference in our year, how not to view it (and life) as just something to "get through," and how to live it in a way that honors the Lord in an Ephesians 4:1 sort of way. Paul writes: “lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God.”
We have an opportunity for transformation, a chance to do away with improper behavior (or sin) and a time to have a revolutionary year, and most of us probably wouldn't mind "something new" this year. Instead of having resolutions and trying to attain them, let's resolve to alter how we think and what we do in order to lead a life worthy of what we were called to do, and trust God with the rest.
”anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!” (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Paul spoke this to the Corinthians about a new life in Christ by no longer thinking and doing what they were accustomed to, but to change their actions in order to live according to God's ways and purpose.
Today, we can use this to inspire us to re-evaluate our relationship with him, our actions toward others and the path we are walking. Some of us may be struggling with our "old" self which hampers our effort to grow in the Lord. Maybe our "old" consists of unbelieving friends who encourage us to stumble, maybe they are habits we haven't completely given up, or maybe they are ways we continue to act or improperly react.
Whatever may be messing up your growth or plans (no matter how small it may seem), what could be better than to leave the "old" where it belongs so you can move into the "new"?
What We Haven’t Done
”When Jesus heard his answer, he said, “There is still one thing you haven’t done. Sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." (Luke 18:22).
When many of us first heard or read this verse, we probably flinched. I know I did and still do. In order to follow Jesus we have to sell everything we have and give the money away? For the rich young ruler, to whom Jesus was speaking, it was exactly what was meant.
Jesus' lesson and desire for us is to purge our lives of anything and everything that stands in the way of our relationship and our devotion to him. This passage may be literally speaking to some of us, needing to rid ourselves of all worldly possessions, however, there are likely other areas in our life Jesus wants us to free ourselves from.
If this was re-written specifically for us it might say, "Break off that relationship (or unrelenting search of one) and follow me," "Quit your endless quest for ‘more' and follow me," "Stop that behavior and follow me," or "Give up living for yourself and follow me."
It is so easy to get caught up in everyday life, placing "God" on hold (or pushing Him to the side), while we seek for "something" with our own power, mind and worldly desires.
What may be something we have lived with all of our lives is not something we should continue to do as a believer. Let’s not miss out on another year (we only have 9 months left) of living life to the fullest, following the Lord and experiencing what your true heart desires by hanging onto something not pleasing to the Lord.
No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. (Philippians 3:13-14).
How often do you talk with someone and hear about "what was" or "what could have been"? Not even in the short-term sense, but what may have happened years ago and why they can't do something now. Living like that is not “forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead”. It is allowing yesterday to jeopardize your life today.
Many of us seem to struggle with "forgetting the past". We all have our "should haves," "could haves," and "what ifs" in life, and we can learn from them and use them (to grow) without letting them obstruct our progress, but we need to "forget" in a sense "what could have been" and look toward "what can be."
Maybe things were "easier" back then, maybe we had "more," maybe we had "somebody," but we can't try to live both in the past and in the present.
We each have to decide where we are going to live—in the past where things "were," or in the present seeking the amazing life Jesus has planned for us. Paul shared with us where he was striving to live.
”Everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ.” (Philippians 3:8).
For each day we don't live knowing and growing in Christ, we are losing time, effort and the opportunity to do so, as well as not attaining our God-given potential.
Before we can expect to experience the new life God has for us we have to determine, deal with and forget the things which have held us back (or controlled us) for so long. Leave the past in the past. Learn from our mistakes, but don't carry any regrets and live for today.
We need to have the faith to trust God enough to let go of the old and embrace the new. We won't be able to walk into the future if we have a foot in the past.
The New Has Come
If there is a choice between something old and something new, most of us would choose new. Let’s look again at the earlier scripture “anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!” (2 Corinthians 5:17). As a new creation, our purpose changes, our idea of life changes and our desires change, or at least they should.
The one thing I ask of the LORD— the thing I seek most— is to live in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, delighting in the LORD’s perfections and meditating in his Temple. (Psalm 27:4)
If we are a new person in Christ, our desire is to seek being in the presence of the Lord and delighting in his perfections, not struggling over our imperfections. This is the "new" life God has for us.
Throughout our lives, most of us know what we should do—right versus wrong, better versus getting-by, now versus later. Sometimes we don't make the best choice because we are more concerned with what others will think, how we may look or because we don't feel like it. At other times, we may be so busy just "doing," we lose focus on doing what is better.
One reason we fail on our resolutions or any ambition may be because we don't consult with God for what he wants for us. We may "think" we know what is best (for ourselves and others), and we have good intentions for wanting (or doing) "it." But if we don't ask God first, we are doing it alone.
If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. (James 1:5).
We should resolve to alter what we do and how we think in order to achieve and lead our life worthy of what we were called to do. And one of those things, one of the better things, is spending more time with the Lord, allowing him to set our path straight.
“..let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” (Romans 12:2)
One lesson we should have learned by reading the Bible is God doesn't encourage us to "try" or "consider doing" something; he tells us to "Go," "Seek," "Make," etc. He commands us to "Do." In other words, to quote one of the most popular philosophers of today, we need "Git-er-Done." For y’all that don’t know who says this, see me after class. This phrase has become a Southern colloquialism meaning to finish an action or get the job done.
Whenever the thought of a task is quickly followed by an excuse, denial or blame, we should know we’re in trouble. Have you ever asked a friend, co-worker, or family member (even yourself) why something isn't completed and the first words you heard were, "I was going to, but. ..." "I was, before 'so-and-so.'..." "I can't right now because. ..." "I'll do it when. ..."
God doesn't say, "When you get around to it, go and make disciples", "Knock when you get the chance, and the door will be opened", "Seek whenever and my kingdom will be given." He commands us to "Go now", "Knock now", and "Seek now." Great intentions don't complete tasks, doing them does, so just "Git-er-Done."
But you must not forget this one thing, dear friends: A day is like a thousand years to the Lord, and a thousand years is like a day. The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent. (2 Peter 3:8-9)
God has given us all a gift—the gift of life and the gift of salvation. He has blessed us with amazing abilities and incredible opportunities, some of which many of us have not even tapped into. Some approach life and each day as something just to "get through" rather than as God desires—an opportunity to grow closer to him and utilize the blessings he has given us to touch others.
We don't understand his ways, nor can we comprehend his timing. We cannot fathom what our Father knows or has planned for each of us, but he has been patient with us as we try to figure it out and live it out.
Don't allow the disappointments of yesteryears squander more time or rob us of the blessings of today. Don't allow the memories of the past cause us from stepping out and living in the present. God wants us to spend time with him and to do those things he commands us to and the only way to accomplish these things (along with all of the other "life" stuff), is to not be complacent and to do them, no excuses.
If we view every challenge as an opportunity to serve him rather than seeing every opportunity as a challenge, we will grow closer to him and have no regrets at the end of the year or at the end of our lives.
We still have time to try to make a difference in our year, how not to view it (and life) as just something to "get through," and how to live it in a way that honors the Lord in an Ephesians 4:1 sort of way. Paul writes: “lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God.”
We have an opportunity for transformation, a chance to do away with improper behavior (or sin) and a time to have a revolutionary year, and most of us probably wouldn't mind "something new" this year. Instead of having resolutions and trying to attain them, let's resolve to alter how we think and what we do in order to lead a life worthy of what we were called to do, and trust God with the rest.
”anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!” (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Paul spoke this to the Corinthians about a new life in Christ by no longer thinking and doing what they were accustomed to, but to change their actions in order to live according to God's ways and purpose.
Today, we can use this to inspire us to re-evaluate our relationship with him, our actions toward others and the path we are walking. Some of us may be struggling with our "old" self which hampers our effort to grow in the Lord. Maybe our "old" consists of unbelieving friends who encourage us to stumble, maybe they are habits we haven't completely given up, or maybe they are ways we continue to act or improperly react.
Whatever may be messing up your growth or plans (no matter how small it may seem), what could be better than to leave the "old" where it belongs so you can move into the "new"?
What We Haven’t Done
”When Jesus heard his answer, he said, “There is still one thing you haven’t done. Sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." (Luke 18:22).
When many of us first heard or read this verse, we probably flinched. I know I did and still do. In order to follow Jesus we have to sell everything we have and give the money away? For the rich young ruler, to whom Jesus was speaking, it was exactly what was meant.
Jesus' lesson and desire for us is to purge our lives of anything and everything that stands in the way of our relationship and our devotion to him. This passage may be literally speaking to some of us, needing to rid ourselves of all worldly possessions, however, there are likely other areas in our life Jesus wants us to free ourselves from.
If this was re-written specifically for us it might say, "Break off that relationship (or unrelenting search of one) and follow me," "Quit your endless quest for ‘more' and follow me," "Stop that behavior and follow me," or "Give up living for yourself and follow me."
It is so easy to get caught up in everyday life, placing "God" on hold (or pushing Him to the side), while we seek for "something" with our own power, mind and worldly desires.
What may be something we have lived with all of our lives is not something we should continue to do as a believer. Let’s not miss out on another year (we only have 9 months left) of living life to the fullest, following the Lord and experiencing what your true heart desires by hanging onto something not pleasing to the Lord.
No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. (Philippians 3:13-14).
How often do you talk with someone and hear about "what was" or "what could have been"? Not even in the short-term sense, but what may have happened years ago and why they can't do something now. Living like that is not “forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead”. It is allowing yesterday to jeopardize your life today.
Many of us seem to struggle with "forgetting the past". We all have our "should haves," "could haves," and "what ifs" in life, and we can learn from them and use them (to grow) without letting them obstruct our progress, but we need to "forget" in a sense "what could have been" and look toward "what can be."
Maybe things were "easier" back then, maybe we had "more," maybe we had "somebody," but we can't try to live both in the past and in the present.
We each have to decide where we are going to live—in the past where things "were," or in the present seeking the amazing life Jesus has planned for us. Paul shared with us where he was striving to live.
”Everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ.” (Philippians 3:8).
For each day we don't live knowing and growing in Christ, we are losing time, effort and the opportunity to do so, as well as not attaining our God-given potential.
Before we can expect to experience the new life God has for us we have to determine, deal with and forget the things which have held us back (or controlled us) for so long. Leave the past in the past. Learn from our mistakes, but don't carry any regrets and live for today.
We need to have the faith to trust God enough to let go of the old and embrace the new. We won't be able to walk into the future if we have a foot in the past.
The New Has Come
If there is a choice between something old and something new, most of us would choose new. Let’s look again at the earlier scripture “anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!” (2 Corinthians 5:17). As a new creation, our purpose changes, our idea of life changes and our desires change, or at least they should.
The one thing I ask of the LORD— the thing I seek most— is to live in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, delighting in the LORD’s perfections and meditating in his Temple. (Psalm 27:4)
If we are a new person in Christ, our desire is to seek being in the presence of the Lord and delighting in his perfections, not struggling over our imperfections. This is the "new" life God has for us.
Throughout our lives, most of us know what we should do—right versus wrong, better versus getting-by, now versus later. Sometimes we don't make the best choice because we are more concerned with what others will think, how we may look or because we don't feel like it. At other times, we may be so busy just "doing," we lose focus on doing what is better.
One reason we fail on our resolutions or any ambition may be because we don't consult with God for what he wants for us. We may "think" we know what is best (for ourselves and others), and we have good intentions for wanting (or doing) "it." But if we don't ask God first, we are doing it alone.
If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. (James 1:5).
We should resolve to alter what we do and how we think in order to achieve and lead our life worthy of what we were called to do. And one of those things, one of the better things, is spending more time with the Lord, allowing him to set our path straight.
“..let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” (Romans 12:2)
One lesson we should have learned by reading the Bible is God doesn't encourage us to "try" or "consider doing" something; he tells us to "Go," "Seek," "Make," etc. He commands us to "Do." In other words, to quote one of the most popular philosophers of today, we need "Git-er-Done." For y’all that don’t know who says this, see me after class. This phrase has become a Southern colloquialism meaning to finish an action or get the job done.
Whenever the thought of a task is quickly followed by an excuse, denial or blame, we should know we’re in trouble. Have you ever asked a friend, co-worker, or family member (even yourself) why something isn't completed and the first words you heard were, "I was going to, but. ..." "I was, before 'so-and-so.'..." "I can't right now because. ..." "I'll do it when. ..."
God doesn't say, "When you get around to it, go and make disciples", "Knock when you get the chance, and the door will be opened", "Seek whenever and my kingdom will be given." He commands us to "Go now", "Knock now", and "Seek now." Great intentions don't complete tasks, doing them does, so just "Git-er-Done."
But you must not forget this one thing, dear friends: A day is like a thousand years to the Lord, and a thousand years is like a day. The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent. (2 Peter 3:8-9)
God has given us all a gift—the gift of life and the gift of salvation. He has blessed us with amazing abilities and incredible opportunities, some of which many of us have not even tapped into. Some approach life and each day as something just to "get through" rather than as God desires—an opportunity to grow closer to him and utilize the blessings he has given us to touch others.
We don't understand his ways, nor can we comprehend his timing. We cannot fathom what our Father knows or has planned for each of us, but he has been patient with us as we try to figure it out and live it out.
Don't allow the disappointments of yesteryears squander more time or rob us of the blessings of today. Don't allow the memories of the past cause us from stepping out and living in the present. God wants us to spend time with him and to do those things he commands us to and the only way to accomplish these things (along with all of the other "life" stuff), is to not be complacent and to do them, no excuses.
If we view every challenge as an opportunity to serve him rather than seeing every opportunity as a challenge, we will grow closer to him and have no regrets at the end of the year or at the end of our lives.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Overcoming Anger
The story is told that in the latter 1800’s, Alfred Lord Tennyson invited a Russian nobleman to his estate. And early one morning this nobleman took off with dogs and guns and servants to go hunting.
At mid-day he returned and Lord Tennyson asked him how he did. He answered, "Not very well. I shot two peasants." Lord Tennyson thought for a moment and then said, “No, we pronounce it with a ‘ph’ here. It is ‘pheasants.’ You shot two pheasants."
"No," the nobleman replied, "I shot two peasants. They were insolent (in other words, got “smart” with him”) towards me, so I shot them."
Now we smile in disbelief at a story like that. But, how many of you have heard a true story of a “road rage” shooting? Most of have!
Now, of course, we wouldn’t do anything like that. But have you ever lost your temper? Do you ever do things you wish you hadn’t done, or say things you wish you had never said?
Well, the Bible has something to say about overcoming anger. Proverbs 19:11 says, "A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense."
Now there is the secret, isn’t it? If someone offends you and if you are a person of wisdom (God’s wisdom) then you can overlook it, and not allow the situation to become a major event that overwhelms you.
If you study anger in the Bible you will find that there are 4 types of anger dealt with in the Bible. Sudden anger, sinful anger, stubborn anger and justified anger. Let’s look at each of those 4 types of anger.
I. SUDDEN ANGER IS TO BE CONTROLLED
A. First of all there is sudden anger, and the Bible says that sudden anger is to be controlled.
1. Proverbs 14:17 says, “A quick-tempered person does foolish things”. We already knew that because we’ve experienced that in our own lives. We may blame our quick temper on our red hair. Or we may blame it on our heritage. After all, we’re Irish or something like that. We may even be proud of it. But the bottom line is, if we have a short fuse, we’re going to do a lot of foolish things. When we lose our temper we’ll say things we know we shouldn’t have said, and do things that we’re going to be sorry for later on.
2. Next, Proverbs 15:18 says, "A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict." That simply means that if you have a short fuse, if you’re always losing your temper, if you’re walking around with a chip on your shoulder, if you’re just looking for somebody to say something that will irritate you, then you’re going to leave a trail of hurt feelings and unhappiness behind you.
Will Rogers said, "Whenever you fly into a rage, you seldom make a safe landing." And he is right.
Chuck Swindoll said, "I got so angry that I gave him a piece of my mind. And it was a piece that I couldn’t afford to lose."
3. Proverbs 18:13 says, "Spouting off before listening to the facts is both shameful and foolish.” (NLT). He is talking about jumping to conclusions. We hear just a little bit of what is said, and we instantly jump to a conclusion, and oftentimes it is the wrong conclusion
A hot temper could also mean loss of family and friends. The penalties of losing our temper are many.
B. So the Bible says, "If you have a sudden temper, then you need to control it." But how can we do that?
You may say, "Why, I just can’t control my temper. It gets away from me." But you can. Have you ever found yourself engaged in a heated discussion with your voice getting louder and your words becoming more rapid? Then the telephone rings and you say, "Hello", very calmly. Sure, you can control your temper.
So we need to recognize that we have a problem with temper. As long as we deny it, as long as we blame it on heritage or short-fuse or whatever we choose to blame it on, we’ll never improve.
Then we must confess our problem to God and ask for His help. "Lord, I’m beginning to lose my temper, and I’ve done it many times before. Please help me see what is causing it to happen, and then help me to overcome it."
The Bible teaches that when the Holy Spirit guides our life, that one fruit of the spirit is self control. And if you have a sudden temper, you need to control it.
II. SINFUL ANGER IS TO BE CONDEMNED
The second type of anger discussed in scripture is sinful anger. Not all anger is sinful, and we’ll talk about that later in the lesson. But some anger is. So let’s see what the Bible says about whether your anger is sinful or not.
In Matthew 5:21, Jesus says, “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment. But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment.”
Now that passage tells us some things about anger that should help us realize when our anger is sinful and when it is not. Now if you’re a brother or sister to someone it indicates that you are a member of the same family, whether a domestic family or the family of God.
If we’re brothers and sisters, we ought to be lifting each other up, supporting and helping each other. We should not spend our time being angry at one another. If you’re angry at your brother or sister, this indicates that you are focusing your anger on a person and means that your anger is sinful. We should never focus our anger on people, but rather on the sins they commit. Jesus was never angry at people, but He was angry at their sins. So look beyond the person. We must love the person, but hate their sin.
Now in Romans 12:19 Paul says, "Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.”
Another test of our anger is this: Is it anger that seeks revenge? Are we always trying to get even? The Bible teaches that God is the one who has the right of vengeance. Not us. We don’t have the right to repay anyone. But rather, turn that over to God. So if our anger is geared towards seeking revenge, then it is very definitely sinful anger.
If it is vengeful, then most likely it is also an anger that is cherished. There are a lot of people who love being angry. They’ve been angry for years. Inside of them there is a boiling mass of anger. So if anger is cherished, it most certainly is sinful anger.
If it is a cherished anger it will also be anger with an unforgiving spirit. And the secret to getting rid of anger is to be able to forgive. But if you can’t forgive, if you can’t release it, then it is a sinful anger.
If it is sinful, then we need to repent, to turn away from it, and allow God to forgive us of it so that we can become forgiving people, too.
III. STUBBORN ANGER IS TO BE CONQUERED
Stubborn anger is that which just stays there, day after day after day. One of the classic passages that deals with anger begins in Ephesians 4:26. “In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry." And the next verse says, "And do not give the devil a foothold."
One you’re angry or upset about something. You’re carrying a chip on your shoulder, just waiting for someone to knock it off. Then your spouse (could well be child, parent, fellow worker or maybe a friend that you run into) says something you don’t particularly appreciate, and soon heated words are being exchanged. It really doesn’t amount to much, but you’re determined to get your way, and the other one is determined to get their way. So the argument continues. And the day ends and the issue is not resolved. You may even begin to think about all the bad things people do and say to you, all the insults, all of the inconsiderate things that go on. And then you blow up! And the things that Paul says we should get rid of in verse 31, happens: bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, and malice.
Do you realize what has happened? The Bible says that you have opened the door, and said, "Mr. Devil, come right on in. We’ll make you welcome here." Then Satan begins to do his dirty work.
Paul goes on to say in verse 32, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
JUSTIFIED ANGER MUST BE CHANNELED IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION FOR GOD
“In your anger do not sin." It is okay to be angry, but do not sin.
Mark 3:1-5 is a passage that deals with a situation where Jesus has healed a man on the Sabbath and knew that some the “church folks” were looking for “a reason to accuse Jesus” and healing on the Sabbath was against their “rules”. In verse 5 the Bible say, “He (Jesus) looked around at them in anger”. He is angry because of their stubborn hearts and their stubborn anger.
The Bible says that Jesus was tempted in all points, even as we are tempted, but He never sinned. So this passage teaches that Jesus became angry but it wasn’t sinful anger. It was justified anger, channeled anger, anger that has the right focus, and the right object - sin.
Maybe an infusion of anger is the very thing that the church needs. A holy anger at all the sin in the world. Anger at the fact that many people are dying without Jesus.
There are all kinds of anger. And if you are wrestling with them, God promises to give you victory, if you’ll let Him.
So get let’s get the chip of our shoulders.
At mid-day he returned and Lord Tennyson asked him how he did. He answered, "Not very well. I shot two peasants." Lord Tennyson thought for a moment and then said, “No, we pronounce it with a ‘ph’ here. It is ‘pheasants.’ You shot two pheasants."
"No," the nobleman replied, "I shot two peasants. They were insolent (in other words, got “smart” with him”) towards me, so I shot them."
Now we smile in disbelief at a story like that. But, how many of you have heard a true story of a “road rage” shooting? Most of have!
Now, of course, we wouldn’t do anything like that. But have you ever lost your temper? Do you ever do things you wish you hadn’t done, or say things you wish you had never said?
Well, the Bible has something to say about overcoming anger. Proverbs 19:11 says, "A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense."
Now there is the secret, isn’t it? If someone offends you and if you are a person of wisdom (God’s wisdom) then you can overlook it, and not allow the situation to become a major event that overwhelms you.
If you study anger in the Bible you will find that there are 4 types of anger dealt with in the Bible. Sudden anger, sinful anger, stubborn anger and justified anger. Let’s look at each of those 4 types of anger.
I. SUDDEN ANGER IS TO BE CONTROLLED
A. First of all there is sudden anger, and the Bible says that sudden anger is to be controlled.
1. Proverbs 14:17 says, “A quick-tempered person does foolish things”. We already knew that because we’ve experienced that in our own lives. We may blame our quick temper on our red hair. Or we may blame it on our heritage. After all, we’re Irish or something like that. We may even be proud of it. But the bottom line is, if we have a short fuse, we’re going to do a lot of foolish things. When we lose our temper we’ll say things we know we shouldn’t have said, and do things that we’re going to be sorry for later on.
2. Next, Proverbs 15:18 says, "A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict." That simply means that if you have a short fuse, if you’re always losing your temper, if you’re walking around with a chip on your shoulder, if you’re just looking for somebody to say something that will irritate you, then you’re going to leave a trail of hurt feelings and unhappiness behind you.
Will Rogers said, "Whenever you fly into a rage, you seldom make a safe landing." And he is right.
Chuck Swindoll said, "I got so angry that I gave him a piece of my mind. And it was a piece that I couldn’t afford to lose."
3. Proverbs 18:13 says, "Spouting off before listening to the facts is both shameful and foolish.” (NLT). He is talking about jumping to conclusions. We hear just a little bit of what is said, and we instantly jump to a conclusion, and oftentimes it is the wrong conclusion
A hot temper could also mean loss of family and friends. The penalties of losing our temper are many.
B. So the Bible says, "If you have a sudden temper, then you need to control it." But how can we do that?
You may say, "Why, I just can’t control my temper. It gets away from me." But you can. Have you ever found yourself engaged in a heated discussion with your voice getting louder and your words becoming more rapid? Then the telephone rings and you say, "Hello", very calmly. Sure, you can control your temper.
So we need to recognize that we have a problem with temper. As long as we deny it, as long as we blame it on heritage or short-fuse or whatever we choose to blame it on, we’ll never improve.
Then we must confess our problem to God and ask for His help. "Lord, I’m beginning to lose my temper, and I’ve done it many times before. Please help me see what is causing it to happen, and then help me to overcome it."
The Bible teaches that when the Holy Spirit guides our life, that one fruit of the spirit is self control. And if you have a sudden temper, you need to control it.
II. SINFUL ANGER IS TO BE CONDEMNED
The second type of anger discussed in scripture is sinful anger. Not all anger is sinful, and we’ll talk about that later in the lesson. But some anger is. So let’s see what the Bible says about whether your anger is sinful or not.
In Matthew 5:21, Jesus says, “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment. But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment.”
Now that passage tells us some things about anger that should help us realize when our anger is sinful and when it is not. Now if you’re a brother or sister to someone it indicates that you are a member of the same family, whether a domestic family or the family of God.
If we’re brothers and sisters, we ought to be lifting each other up, supporting and helping each other. We should not spend our time being angry at one another. If you’re angry at your brother or sister, this indicates that you are focusing your anger on a person and means that your anger is sinful. We should never focus our anger on people, but rather on the sins they commit. Jesus was never angry at people, but He was angry at their sins. So look beyond the person. We must love the person, but hate their sin.
Now in Romans 12:19 Paul says, "Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.”
Another test of our anger is this: Is it anger that seeks revenge? Are we always trying to get even? The Bible teaches that God is the one who has the right of vengeance. Not us. We don’t have the right to repay anyone. But rather, turn that over to God. So if our anger is geared towards seeking revenge, then it is very definitely sinful anger.
If it is vengeful, then most likely it is also an anger that is cherished. There are a lot of people who love being angry. They’ve been angry for years. Inside of them there is a boiling mass of anger. So if anger is cherished, it most certainly is sinful anger.
If it is a cherished anger it will also be anger with an unforgiving spirit. And the secret to getting rid of anger is to be able to forgive. But if you can’t forgive, if you can’t release it, then it is a sinful anger.
If it is sinful, then we need to repent, to turn away from it, and allow God to forgive us of it so that we can become forgiving people, too.
III. STUBBORN ANGER IS TO BE CONQUERED
Stubborn anger is that which just stays there, day after day after day. One of the classic passages that deals with anger begins in Ephesians 4:26. “In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry." And the next verse says, "And do not give the devil a foothold."
One you’re angry or upset about something. You’re carrying a chip on your shoulder, just waiting for someone to knock it off. Then your spouse (could well be child, parent, fellow worker or maybe a friend that you run into) says something you don’t particularly appreciate, and soon heated words are being exchanged. It really doesn’t amount to much, but you’re determined to get your way, and the other one is determined to get their way. So the argument continues. And the day ends and the issue is not resolved. You may even begin to think about all the bad things people do and say to you, all the insults, all of the inconsiderate things that go on. And then you blow up! And the things that Paul says we should get rid of in verse 31, happens: bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, and malice.
Do you realize what has happened? The Bible says that you have opened the door, and said, "Mr. Devil, come right on in. We’ll make you welcome here." Then Satan begins to do his dirty work.
Paul goes on to say in verse 32, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
JUSTIFIED ANGER MUST BE CHANNELED IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION FOR GOD
“In your anger do not sin." It is okay to be angry, but do not sin.
Mark 3:1-5 is a passage that deals with a situation where Jesus has healed a man on the Sabbath and knew that some the “church folks” were looking for “a reason to accuse Jesus” and healing on the Sabbath was against their “rules”. In verse 5 the Bible say, “He (Jesus) looked around at them in anger”. He is angry because of their stubborn hearts and their stubborn anger.
The Bible says that Jesus was tempted in all points, even as we are tempted, but He never sinned. So this passage teaches that Jesus became angry but it wasn’t sinful anger. It was justified anger, channeled anger, anger that has the right focus, and the right object - sin.
Maybe an infusion of anger is the very thing that the church needs. A holy anger at all the sin in the world. Anger at the fact that many people are dying without Jesus.
There are all kinds of anger. And if you are wrestling with them, God promises to give you victory, if you’ll let Him.
So get let’s get the chip of our shoulders.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Backsliding
“Backsliders get what they deserve; good people receive their reward.” Proverbs 14:14 NLT
One of the greatest dangers we face in the Christian life is the danger of backsliding. And the fact that church rolls are filled with the names of people who seldom, if ever even darken the doors of a church building, reveals just how serious this problem is. At this time we have 232 members in the church database. I went through the database and looked at each name and we have 131 that come fairly regularly.
Just a generation ago, sermons on backsliding was the “meat and potatoes” of most preachers and especially evangelists. But these days we rarely, if ever, hear the term backsliding. It is possible that some of us may have never heard a lesson or sermon on backsliding, and perhaps have never even heard the term “backslide” before today. How long has it been since any of you have heard this term? Let’s look at what “backsliding” means.
The definition from the Dictionary of “backsliding” is: “Slipping back; falling back into sin or error; sinning.” Also, “The act of one who backslides; abandonment of faith or duty.”
Other meanings are “turn one’s back on the Lord” …………or………”to turn one’s heart away from the Lord. To backslide means to lose one’s spiritual passion, enthusiasm and interest.
Backsliding also means “to fail to make progress in one’s spiritual life.” If I am not moving forward in my spiritual life then I am moving backwards. If am not progressing spiritually I am regressing spiritually. There is no such thing as “standing still” spiritually. A Christian can’t just maintain “status quo” and be in God’s will.
God takes really dim view of backsliding in the Old Testament. In some translations it is referred to as turning your back on God: “You have abandoned me and turned your back on me,” says the LORD.” Jeremiah 2:19 NLT. And backsliding in others: “You have rejected me,” declares the LORD. “You keep on backsliding. So I will reach out and destroy you; I am tired of holding back. Jeremiah 15:6 NIV.
The term "backsliding" is applied only to God's people, not to unbelievers. In other words, the backslider must have at one point in his life been placed in a position close to God from which he/she has since slid back or away from and toward a more distant position from God.
Backsliding is not an event, it is a process. It doesn’t occur over night, it occurs over a period of weeks and months and even years. Backsliding is not like jumping off a cliff, but rather it’s like slowly drifting down a long hill.
The New Testament gives us a number of examples that describe backsliding. Luke 9:62 Jesus says a man “who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God.” Jesus also says that “You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor?” Matthew 5:13. In II Peter 2:21-22 the apostle Peter gives us two very graphic pictures to describe backsliding: “It would be better if they had never known the way to righteousness than to know it and then reject the command they were given to live a holy life. They prove the truth of this proverb: “A dog returns to its vomit.” And another says, “A washed pig returns to the mud.”
In Revelation 2:4 (NKJV) Jesus tells the church at Ephesus that “I have this against you, that you have left your first love.”
The Bible gives us many examples of people who backslid. Some backslid for a period of time then came to repentance, while others left this world in a backslidden condition. People such as Lot, Samson, King Saul, King David and King Solomon and the entire nation of Israel in the Old Testament. As well as Peter, Judas, Ananias & Sapphira, and the prodigal son in the New Testament.
The fact that GOD includes so many examples of backsliding in the Scriptures ought to serve as a warning to every believer that any one of us is capable of backsliding. As the apostle PAUL warns us that “If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall.” 1 Corinthians 10:12
What Are Some Symptoms of Backsliding?
Backsliding is a heart condition. And because it is a sin of the heart, its symptoms may not always be obvious to anyone, including the one who has backslidden.
Sometimes the symptoms of backsliding are very obvious and easy to identify. For example, let’s say someone accepted Christ years ago and for a time they were active in the church and faithful in their church attendance. But over the course of time they became less active and their church attendance became more sporadic. And now that individual rarely if ever darkens the doors of a church building. Well it’s obvious that individual is a backslider, isn’t it?
Or, lets say someone professes to be a Christian, yet lives a very worldly and sinful lifestyle. Well again, it’s very obvious that individual is in a backslidden condition.
But there may be things going on inside of one’s heart long before any outward symptoms are visible.
It is very possible for one to be in Sunday School and church every week and yet be backsliding in their heart. It is possible for one to teach a Sunday school class every week or serve as a deacon or even stand in the pulpit to preach every Sunday and yet be a backslider in the heart.
Could we be a backslider in our heart and not realize it yet?
Here are some soul searching questions every Christian needs to ask themselves
on a regular basis. As we ask these questions, ask ourselves, do I have this symptom?
• Like Lot, do I spend little or no time alone with God?
• Like King Saul and King David, have I lost my spiritual joy and enthusiasm?
• Like Samson, David, Judas and Ananias & Sapphira, is there a “secret” or
“habitual” sin in my life?
• Like the church at Ephesus “you have left your first love.”
• Like Peter am I currently following the Lord “at a distance?”
By no means are these all the symptoms. Any pattern of sinful speech or behavior, any kind of an addiction, any loss of appetite for spiritual things or increased appetite for worldly things are all symptoms something is going on inside your heart.
As one minister once said “If there was ever a time when you were closer to Christ than you are now……….if ever there was a time when your prayers were sweeter and your worship more meaningful than it is now, you have backslidden.”
What Are the Sorrows of Backsliding?
“Backsliders get what they deserve” What this verse is saying is that when one’s heart is in a backslidden condition, he invites all kinds of sorrows and troubles into his life. The Bible says: Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” Galatians 6:7 (NIV). One only has to look at King David and see the many sorrows that can happen to a backslider. Read Psalm 38 and see what David says after he had an affair with Bathsheba and had her husband killed. An example of what David writes in verse 2-3, “Your arrows have struck deep, and your blows are crushing me. Because of your anger, my whole body is sick; my health is broken because of my sins.”
What is the Solution to Backsliding?
Let’s suppose you are sitting here today or reading this lesson and you now realize your relationship with God is not as it should be. And you are wondering, what can I do to make that relationship right again?
Jesus’ parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15, provides us with some valuable insight as to what we must do when we have backslidden. You remember after receiving his share of the inheritance from his loving Father ……..the Prodigal ran away to the “distant land” and wasted all his money on “wild living”. When he was broke, had lost all of his friends, and was so desperate that he went to work for a farmer who assigned him the job of feeding the pigs. This is about the worse thing a Jewish person could do. He was so hungry that he was eating “slop” with the pigs. He finally came to his senses. It was then the prodigal said, “I will go home to my father and say, “Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you, and I am no longer worthy of being called your son. Please take me on as a hired servant.”’ Verse18
The most beautiful part of Jesus’ parable comes in verse 20. “So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him.”
We certainly don’t don’t miss the valuable truth God is revealing here: “while he was still a long way off, ……HIS FATHER RAN TO HIM!
Our Heavenly Father wants you and me to know, that when we backslide the road back to home is shorter than the road that took us away from Him. When He sees us coming back to Him with a repentant heart, He runs to meet us and wraps His loving, forgiving arms around us to welcome us home.
Where do you go, when you’ve come to the end of your road? And you feel like the only one and you’re all alone? When you’ve seen all you wanted to see. And become all you wanted to be. And you still don’t really know where you belong? You go to the place where life begins. To the love that never ends. To the One whose arms are open wide, You run on inside. And HE tells you…….. “You should have come sooner! You should have come sooner!”
For prayer requests, comments or to be included in our email ministry, email us at: whosoever@cottagehillbaptist.org. Also, Check out our “blog” at: http://thewhosoevers.blogspot.com/
One of the greatest dangers we face in the Christian life is the danger of backsliding. And the fact that church rolls are filled with the names of people who seldom, if ever even darken the doors of a church building, reveals just how serious this problem is. At this time we have 232 members in the church database. I went through the database and looked at each name and we have 131 that come fairly regularly.
Just a generation ago, sermons on backsliding was the “meat and potatoes” of most preachers and especially evangelists. But these days we rarely, if ever, hear the term backsliding. It is possible that some of us may have never heard a lesson or sermon on backsliding, and perhaps have never even heard the term “backslide” before today. How long has it been since any of you have heard this term? Let’s look at what “backsliding” means.
The definition from the Dictionary of “backsliding” is: “Slipping back; falling back into sin or error; sinning.” Also, “The act of one who backslides; abandonment of faith or duty.”
Other meanings are “turn one’s back on the Lord” …………or………”to turn one’s heart away from the Lord. To backslide means to lose one’s spiritual passion, enthusiasm and interest.
Backsliding also means “to fail to make progress in one’s spiritual life.” If I am not moving forward in my spiritual life then I am moving backwards. If am not progressing spiritually I am regressing spiritually. There is no such thing as “standing still” spiritually. A Christian can’t just maintain “status quo” and be in God’s will.
God takes really dim view of backsliding in the Old Testament. In some translations it is referred to as turning your back on God: “You have abandoned me and turned your back on me,” says the LORD.” Jeremiah 2:19 NLT. And backsliding in others: “You have rejected me,” declares the LORD. “You keep on backsliding. So I will reach out and destroy you; I am tired of holding back. Jeremiah 15:6 NIV.
The term "backsliding" is applied only to God's people, not to unbelievers. In other words, the backslider must have at one point in his life been placed in a position close to God from which he/she has since slid back or away from and toward a more distant position from God.
Backsliding is not an event, it is a process. It doesn’t occur over night, it occurs over a period of weeks and months and even years. Backsliding is not like jumping off a cliff, but rather it’s like slowly drifting down a long hill.
The New Testament gives us a number of examples that describe backsliding. Luke 9:62 Jesus says a man “who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God.” Jesus also says that “You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor?” Matthew 5:13. In II Peter 2:21-22 the apostle Peter gives us two very graphic pictures to describe backsliding: “It would be better if they had never known the way to righteousness than to know it and then reject the command they were given to live a holy life. They prove the truth of this proverb: “A dog returns to its vomit.” And another says, “A washed pig returns to the mud.”
In Revelation 2:4 (NKJV) Jesus tells the church at Ephesus that “I have this against you, that you have left your first love.”
The Bible gives us many examples of people who backslid. Some backslid for a period of time then came to repentance, while others left this world in a backslidden condition. People such as Lot, Samson, King Saul, King David and King Solomon and the entire nation of Israel in the Old Testament. As well as Peter, Judas, Ananias & Sapphira, and the prodigal son in the New Testament.
The fact that GOD includes so many examples of backsliding in the Scriptures ought to serve as a warning to every believer that any one of us is capable of backsliding. As the apostle PAUL warns us that “If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall.” 1 Corinthians 10:12
What Are Some Symptoms of Backsliding?
Backsliding is a heart condition. And because it is a sin of the heart, its symptoms may not always be obvious to anyone, including the one who has backslidden.
Sometimes the symptoms of backsliding are very obvious and easy to identify. For example, let’s say someone accepted Christ years ago and for a time they were active in the church and faithful in their church attendance. But over the course of time they became less active and their church attendance became more sporadic. And now that individual rarely if ever darkens the doors of a church building. Well it’s obvious that individual is a backslider, isn’t it?
Or, lets say someone professes to be a Christian, yet lives a very worldly and sinful lifestyle. Well again, it’s very obvious that individual is in a backslidden condition.
But there may be things going on inside of one’s heart long before any outward symptoms are visible.
It is very possible for one to be in Sunday School and church every week and yet be backsliding in their heart. It is possible for one to teach a Sunday school class every week or serve as a deacon or even stand in the pulpit to preach every Sunday and yet be a backslider in the heart.
Could we be a backslider in our heart and not realize it yet?
Here are some soul searching questions every Christian needs to ask themselves
on a regular basis. As we ask these questions, ask ourselves, do I have this symptom?
• Like Lot, do I spend little or no time alone with God?
• Like King Saul and King David, have I lost my spiritual joy and enthusiasm?
• Like Samson, David, Judas and Ananias & Sapphira, is there a “secret” or
“habitual” sin in my life?
• Like the church at Ephesus “you have left your first love.”
• Like Peter am I currently following the Lord “at a distance?”
By no means are these all the symptoms. Any pattern of sinful speech or behavior, any kind of an addiction, any loss of appetite for spiritual things or increased appetite for worldly things are all symptoms something is going on inside your heart.
As one minister once said “If there was ever a time when you were closer to Christ than you are now……….if ever there was a time when your prayers were sweeter and your worship more meaningful than it is now, you have backslidden.”
What Are the Sorrows of Backsliding?
“Backsliders get what they deserve” What this verse is saying is that when one’s heart is in a backslidden condition, he invites all kinds of sorrows and troubles into his life. The Bible says: Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” Galatians 6:7 (NIV). One only has to look at King David and see the many sorrows that can happen to a backslider. Read Psalm 38 and see what David says after he had an affair with Bathsheba and had her husband killed. An example of what David writes in verse 2-3, “Your arrows have struck deep, and your blows are crushing me. Because of your anger, my whole body is sick; my health is broken because of my sins.”
What is the Solution to Backsliding?
Let’s suppose you are sitting here today or reading this lesson and you now realize your relationship with God is not as it should be. And you are wondering, what can I do to make that relationship right again?
Jesus’ parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15, provides us with some valuable insight as to what we must do when we have backslidden. You remember after receiving his share of the inheritance from his loving Father ……..the Prodigal ran away to the “distant land” and wasted all his money on “wild living”. When he was broke, had lost all of his friends, and was so desperate that he went to work for a farmer who assigned him the job of feeding the pigs. This is about the worse thing a Jewish person could do. He was so hungry that he was eating “slop” with the pigs. He finally came to his senses. It was then the prodigal said, “I will go home to my father and say, “Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you, and I am no longer worthy of being called your son. Please take me on as a hired servant.”’ Verse18
The most beautiful part of Jesus’ parable comes in verse 20. “So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him.”
We certainly don’t don’t miss the valuable truth God is revealing here: “while he was still a long way off, ……HIS FATHER RAN TO HIM!
Our Heavenly Father wants you and me to know, that when we backslide the road back to home is shorter than the road that took us away from Him. When He sees us coming back to Him with a repentant heart, He runs to meet us and wraps His loving, forgiving arms around us to welcome us home.
Where do you go, when you’ve come to the end of your road? And you feel like the only one and you’re all alone? When you’ve seen all you wanted to see. And become all you wanted to be. And you still don’t really know where you belong? You go to the place where life begins. To the love that never ends. To the One whose arms are open wide, You run on inside. And HE tells you…….. “You should have come sooner! You should have come sooner!”
For prayer requests, comments or to be included in our email ministry, email us at: whosoever@cottagehillbaptist.org. Also, Check out our “blog” at: http://thewhosoevers.blogspot.com/
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