January 20, 2008 -- "Sin"
Scripture:
(Mat 3:13 NRSV) Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him.
(Mat 3:14 NRSV) John would have prevented him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?"
(Mat 3:15 NRSV) But Jesus answered him, "Let it be so now; for it is proper for us in this way to fulfill all righteousness." Then he consented.
(Mat 3:16 NRSV) And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up from the water, suddenly the heavens were opened to him and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him.
(Mat 3:17 NRSV) And a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased."
Did Jesus Have a Pastor?
Caitlin’s mom was teaching her the Lord’s prayer. For several evenings, Caitlin would repeat the lines of the prayer after her mother. Finally Caitlin decided to go solo. Her mother listened with pride as she clearly enunciated each word, right up to the end of the prayer: “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from e-mail. Amen.”
Ah the joys and sorrows of modern technology. John the Baptist didn’t have access to such technology in his day. He was a simple preacher. One day he was confronted with something even more amazing than modern technology. The son of God came to him to be baptized. John could not believe his eyes. His comment tells it all, “You come to be baptized by me? I need to be baptized by you.” Jesus told him, “It is necessary for you to baptize me. I must do it to fulfill all righteousness.” John, the preacher, became, at least for a moment, Jesus’ pastor. He baptized the Christ.
Why did Jesus say, “This will fulfill all righteousness?”
First Timothy 2:5 says, “There is one God, and one mediator between God and humankind: Christ Jesus.” Jesus, though divine, had to accept his human role as mediator between God and us. He was baptized into humanity, and with all the joys and sorrows that come with that. Through this new role, God identified with his pinnacle of creation. Jesus, accepted this humble role, with the potential of sinning.
The Bible says that he was tempted in every way – though sinless (Hebrews 4:15). As the sinless one, he became the perfect target to take on sin. He did so at the cross. And because he did, he made a way for all of us to escape the effect of sin.
Before we take a look at the effect of sin, let’s define sin. The biblical word for sin is “Harmartia.” It literally means “missing the mark.” It is missing the mark of God’s ideal. It is a falling short of or an out of bounds shot at the target of what God wants. It ranges from a broken rule to the failure to do something that one should do.
This is how Susannah Wesley defined "sin" to her young son, John Wesley: "…take this simple rule: Whatever weakens your reason, impairs the tenderness of your conscience, obscures your sense of God, and takes off the relish of spiritual things--that to you is sin." Resource, July/August, 1990. That is a pretty good way to look at it.
The Bible contains several list of sins to be avoided, things like adultery, murder, greed, homosexuality, etc. It is not easy to preach about such things, because our culture says, “If it feels good, do it.” But God sets limits. Crossing those limits do indeed have a profound affect.
Now, let’s take a look at the effects of sin. Sin separates – it separates us from the presence of God. It blocks His leading and direction. It creates a roadblock to the power of God.
At the farm we have a cistern, a cement box underground that collects all the rain water of the house. We can use if for our hose outside and even inside if we turn some knobs. Let’s look at it this way. God is the roof, we are the cistern, and His Holy Spirit is the water running through the gutters and downspouts. Sin is a blockage in the downspouts that prevents the Holy Spirit power from arriving.
In Grace Awakening, John Henry Jowett wrote:
Sin is a blasting presence, and every fine power shrinks and withers in the destructive heat. Every spiritual delicacy succumbs to its malignant touch...
Sin impairs the sight, and works toward blindness.
Sin benumbs the hearing and tends to make men deaf.
Sin perverts the taste, causing men to confound the sweet with the bitter, and the bitter with the sweet.
Sin hardens the touch, and eventually renders a man "past feeling."
All these are Scriptural analogies, and their common significance appears to be this--sin blocks and chokes the fine senses of the spirit; by sin we are desensitized, rendered imperceptive, and the range of our correspondence is diminished. Sin creates callosity. It hoofs the spirit, and so reduces the area of our exposure to pain.
James describes the effect of sin that first made itself known in the garden of Eden and still works its dreadful result today: “Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death” (James 1:15 KJV).
Sin leads to death. It is why there is death in the world. The bible portrays all of humanity being born under this curse of sin. That is why we need a savior. And the chief proponent of sin is the devil, the mortal enemy of God and of all humanity.
Sin, you see, is serious business. There are a variety of thought as whether or not a Christian can sin to the point of losing their salvation. At the very least, it can ruin the fellowship we have with the spirit. In the end, one’s relationship might still be left intact, but it would best be compared to one who escapes as through the flames, carrying nothing with him but himself – having lost all rewards.
I saw on the news yesterday a dramatic rescue. A police officer arrived on the scene to find a car with its back end in flames. There was so much smoke inside the car, he couldn’t tell if anyone was inside. He broke a window and still couldn’t tell. Another police officer arrived, and somehow saw a shadow in the shadow. He opened the door, wrestled with a seatbelt and pulled a man to safety, right before the flames engulfed the whole care. The medical authorities said that another 30 to 60 seconds the man would have not lived. He literally escaped through the flames. At the very least, sin can rob a Christian of everything accept, perhaps, our entrance into heaven.
At the same time, the Bible makes it clear that habitual, unrepentant sin leads to ever lasting death. This can be applied to the unbeliever and maybe even to the one who thinks he is saved but refuses to turn from known sin.
As you can see, we all need a prescription for sin. Jesus is the answer. He died to save us from the effects of sin. And if we truly ask him in and make him our priority in life, he well help us to overcome sin.
A recent survey of Discipleship Journal readers ranked areas of greatest spiritual challenge to them:
1. Materialism.
2. Pride.
3. Self-centeredness.
4. Laziness.
5. (Tie) Anger/Bitterness.
5. (Tie) Sexual lust.
7. Envy.
8. Gluttony.
9. Lying.
Survey respondents noted temptations were more potent when they had neglected their time with God (81 percent) and when they were physically tired (57 percent). Resisting temptation was accomplished by prayer (84 percent), avoiding compromising situations (76 percent), Bible study (66 percent), and being accountable to someone (52 percent). Discipleship Journal, November / December 1992.
Jesus understands our delima, because he was tempted, too. His blood washes away the curse of sin. Will His blood make us perfect? No. The effect of sin is always lurking, and sometimes we lose a battle. In those times Christ’s spirit will convict a Christian – so that we will know when we have offended him. This leads to confession, even after Salvation, which then restores the fellowship of the spirit. Jesus has won the war, and because he is victorious, we can be, too.
One final thought. After Christ’s baptism, he hears the word that every child wants to hear from their father: “You are my beloved; with you I am well pleased.” Maybe you didn’t have the kind of father that approved of you or accepted you. Your heavenly father will through his Son. You see, when you believe, God always sees you through the eyes of the cross. He accepts you and calls out to you – You are mine, my beloved.
Let us pray,
Dear God, thanks for sending your Son Jesus to wash away our sin. Help us to continue to call upon you, to continue to feel your conviction, and to continue to confess when we fall short. Forgive us and restore us when we fail. Help us to mature so that we will flee temptation. Help us to grow to the point that sin becomes less of a factor in our lives. We know that no one will ever be perfect in this life. Yet, help us to take sin seriously, so much so that we see ourselves on a journey of overcoming. Finally, guide us so that we will not be judgmental of others; help us to love all, for we are all sinners, and we are only saved by your grace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
January 6, 2008 -- "Religions"
Where Does Your Star Stop?
Scripture:
(Mat 2:1 NRSV) In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem,
(Mat 2:2 NRSV) asking, "Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay him homage."
(Mat 2:3 NRSV) When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him;
(Mat 2:4 NRSV) and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born.
(Mat 2:5 NRSV) They told him, "In Bethlehem of Judea; for so it has been written by the prophet:
(Mat 2:6 NRSV) 'And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who is to shepherd my people Israel.'"
(Mat 2:7 NRSV) Then Herod secretly called for the wise men and learned from them the exact time when the star had appeared.
(Mat 2:8 NRSV) Then he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, "Go and search diligently for the child; and when you have found him, bring me word so that I may also go and pay him homage."
(Mat 2:9 NRSV) When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising, until it stopped over the place where the child was.
(Mat 2:10 NRSV) When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy.
(Mat 2:11 NRSV) On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
(Mat 2:12 NRSV) And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road.
I was watching the science channel a couple of days ago, trying to relax and recover from my cold. An excellent program was on about finding other planets outside of our own solar system. Scientists have learned that our own sun wobbles because the planets in our solar system exert a gravitational pull on the sun. Jupiter, the largest planet in our solar system, exerts about a 30 mile per hour pull on our sun. So, applying this same principle, astronomers have been looking at other suns and have actually detected some that also wobble – therefore they have concluded that in all likelihood, that there are other planets revolving around other stars. Another team of scientists have confirmed the likelihood of planets around other stars by filtering out the intensity of stars and watching for patterns of that star’s dimming – and have found that there are planets eclipsing the stars that they revolve around. To me, this is fascinating stuff. It is a happening of cosmic importance.
In the 16th century, a Roman Catholic Monk was burned at the stake because he suggested that there were other worlds out there, perhaps millions, revolving around other stars. He was branded a heretic. The powers that be thought that his views were taking away from the uniqueness of our planet and us humans. But this heretic wrote: these other planets only showcase the utter eminence of our great God. I find myself believing the same thing. God can do whatever God wishes to do. We are not privy to all the info or all the reasons why. And that is ok to me. It may have been Joni Erickson Tada who put it best when she said that trying to understand the things of God is like trying to pour a million gallons of water into her 1 gallon brain. It just can’t hold it – at least not in this life!
For the wise men, scientists of a different era, Christ’s birth was not just a minor incident in an insignificant little nation, but a happing of cosmic importance. It was an epiphany, which is a fancy way of saying “a revealing” or “a making known.”
The early Christians preached and witnessed that the coming of Jesus Christ was for everybody and anybody. And they boldly proclaimed that the only way into eternal life was through this Christ – and they proclaimed that message despite harassment, ostracism, imprisonment, torture and yes, even execution!
I wonder how this message would be met today?! Today’s America is a multi-religious country – very much unlike the America of my grandparents. Another word to describe today’s America is the word “pluralistic.” There are many religious options to choose from. And there is considerable pressure on Christianity to drop its bold claim that in Jesus Christ, something unique and unprecedented has been done for all of humanity. That pressure would have Christianity simply file in among the other choices and change its claim of the one and only way to 1 of many ways. Well, what do we do with this? Where does the star truly stop?
Two things that we must do: Number one – listen! If we do not listen to other points of view, we can not have a dialogue. Christianity should never be ashamed or afraid of hearing opposing views. Our God and our faith can handle it. But we can not have a genuine witness unless we listen.
I think that listening is a lost art, if it ever was an art.
The story is told of Franklin Roosevelt, who often endured long receiving lines at the White House. He complained that no one really paid any attention to what was said. One day, during a reception, he decided to try an experiment. To each person who passed down the line and shook his hand, he murmured, "I murdered my grandmother this morning." The guests responded with phrases like, "Marvelous! Keep up the good work. We are proud of you. God bless you, sir." It was not till the end of the line, while greeting the ambassador from Bolivia, that his words were actually heard. Nonplussed, the ambassador leaned over and whispered, "I'm sure she had it coming." (Source Unknown.)
Back when I was in seminary, I had a discussion with three of my housemates. These three fellows were from Damascus, Syria. They were attending the university down the road. Waseem, in particular, was very religious. I would see him in his room bowing toward Mecca and praying – not once but several times a day. I listened to his point of view about Jesus, which was radically different from mine. But because I listened, I got to share my beliefs about Jesus, and this opened the door to me not only witnessing to Waseem but to Mazen, as well, as we drove to Columbus one day.
We must listen. Listening is not talking. Listening is not giving advice. Listening is not thinking about your response. Listening is genuinely being concerned with what is said. God blessed us with two ears and one mouth. That tells us all we need to know.
Number two – we must be true to our faith. I hear this a lot: All religions are the same. All get us to the same place! If that is true, then Christ wasted his time on earth. He died a shameful, terrible death for no reason. That would be horrible and even absurd. By the way, Christ’s death and resurrection were written about in the secular literature of the day. And the Bible mentions that 300 people witnessed his resurrection. His existence is a proven fact.
Perhaps I should pause and define religions. Religion is a system or way of expressing one’s spiritual belief; it is typically a large body that subscribes to a particular spiritual leader. A religion is not the same as a denomination. Denominations are variations of expression within the same belief system. When we say religion, we mean religions like Buddhism, Hinduism, Mormonism, and Christianity to name a few. Methodists, Baptists, Presbyterians are denominations within the Christian religion. If you look deep enough, you will find that religions have some things in common but really are as different as night and day. The thing that sets Christianity apart from all others is that God became a man, died for sins, rose again to victory, and opened the door to heaven for all who believe in him.
Jesus Christ is precious! We don’t have to make excuses for that nor water that down. To water down the epiphany – the appearing – the making known of Christ – would be a tragic mistake. The star stopped at Bethlehem, above the baby Jesus. The world has not been the same since. Stick to your faith. Jump in with both feet or don’t bother! What God needs today are people willing to give their very best to share the unparallel love of God through Jesus Christ.
One more thing – the wise men were truly wise. They listened to God who communicated to them through a dream. And they traveled in a group. They shared their faith in community and found their support in community. We can not make a new year’s resolution stick unless we have accountability. That is the number one reason why resolutions fail, I think. Susan and I are exercising together. If I did not have her helping me to do that, I wouldn’t do it. My goal is to lose 20 lbs. I’ve gotten off to a good start thanks to Susan.
Please find someone to be your partner – your helper – your motivator – your checker-upper! When we have to report our progress, we are more likely to succeed.
You will find a pink card in your materials today. If you would write down one New Year’s resolution as way of dedication, and then bring it forward and place on the altar, we will dedicate your efforts to God and I for one will pray for you. If you wish to add your name and you would like me to ask you about your progress from time to time, I would be happy to. Let us be serious, as we trust God for the increase of growth in our lives.
Where Does Your Star Stop?
Scripture:
(Mat 2:1 NRSV) In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem,
(Mat 2:2 NRSV) asking, "Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay him homage."
(Mat 2:3 NRSV) When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him;
(Mat 2:4 NRSV) and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born.
(Mat 2:5 NRSV) They told him, "In Bethlehem of Judea; for so it has been written by the prophet:
(Mat 2:6 NRSV) 'And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who is to shepherd my people Israel.'"
(Mat 2:7 NRSV) Then Herod secretly called for the wise men and learned from them the exact time when the star had appeared.
(Mat 2:8 NRSV) Then he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, "Go and search diligently for the child; and when you have found him, bring me word so that I may also go and pay him homage."
(Mat 2:9 NRSV) When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising, until it stopped over the place where the child was.
(Mat 2:10 NRSV) When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy.
(Mat 2:11 NRSV) On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
(Mat 2:12 NRSV) And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road.
I was watching the science channel a couple of days ago, trying to relax and recover from my cold. An excellent program was on about finding other planets outside of our own solar system. Scientists have learned that our own sun wobbles because the planets in our solar system exert a gravitational pull on the sun. Jupiter, the largest planet in our solar system, exerts about a 30 mile per hour pull on our sun. So, applying this same principle, astronomers have been looking at other suns and have actually detected some that also wobble – therefore they have concluded that in all likelihood, that there are other planets revolving around other stars. Another team of scientists have confirmed the likelihood of planets around other stars by filtering out the intensity of stars and watching for patterns of that star’s dimming – and have found that there are planets eclipsing the stars that they revolve around. To me, this is fascinating stuff. It is a happening of cosmic importance.
In the 16th century, a Roman Catholic Monk was burned at the stake because he suggested that there were other worlds out there, perhaps millions, revolving around other stars. He was branded a heretic. The powers that be thought that his views were taking away from the uniqueness of our planet and us humans. But this heretic wrote: these other planets only showcase the utter eminence of our great God. I find myself believing the same thing. God can do whatever God wishes to do. We are not privy to all the info or all the reasons why. And that is ok to me. It may have been Joni Erickson Tada who put it best when she said that trying to understand the things of God is like trying to pour a million gallons of water into her 1 gallon brain. It just can’t hold it – at least not in this life!
For the wise men, scientists of a different era, Christ’s birth was not just a minor incident in an insignificant little nation, but a happing of cosmic importance. It was an epiphany, which is a fancy way of saying “a revealing” or “a making known.”
The early Christians preached and witnessed that the coming of Jesus Christ was for everybody and anybody. And they boldly proclaimed that the only way into eternal life was through this Christ – and they proclaimed that message despite harassment, ostracism, imprisonment, torture and yes, even execution!
I wonder how this message would be met today?! Today’s America is a multi-religious country – very much unlike the America of my grandparents. Another word to describe today’s America is the word “pluralistic.” There are many religious options to choose from. And there is considerable pressure on Christianity to drop its bold claim that in Jesus Christ, something unique and unprecedented has been done for all of humanity. That pressure would have Christianity simply file in among the other choices and change its claim of the one and only way to 1 of many ways. Well, what do we do with this? Where does the star truly stop?
Two things that we must do: Number one – listen! If we do not listen to other points of view, we can not have a dialogue. Christianity should never be ashamed or afraid of hearing opposing views. Our God and our faith can handle it. But we can not have a genuine witness unless we listen.
I think that listening is a lost art, if it ever was an art.
The story is told of Franklin Roosevelt, who often endured long receiving lines at the White House. He complained that no one really paid any attention to what was said. One day, during a reception, he decided to try an experiment. To each person who passed down the line and shook his hand, he murmured, "I murdered my grandmother this morning." The guests responded with phrases like, "Marvelous! Keep up the good work. We are proud of you. God bless you, sir." It was not till the end of the line, while greeting the ambassador from Bolivia, that his words were actually heard. Nonplussed, the ambassador leaned over and whispered, "I'm sure she had it coming." (Source Unknown.)
Back when I was in seminary, I had a discussion with three of my housemates. These three fellows were from Damascus, Syria. They were attending the university down the road. Waseem, in particular, was very religious. I would see him in his room bowing toward Mecca and praying – not once but several times a day. I listened to his point of view about Jesus, which was radically different from mine. But because I listened, I got to share my beliefs about Jesus, and this opened the door to me not only witnessing to Waseem but to Mazen, as well, as we drove to Columbus one day.
We must listen. Listening is not talking. Listening is not giving advice. Listening is not thinking about your response. Listening is genuinely being concerned with what is said. God blessed us with two ears and one mouth. That tells us all we need to know.
Number two – we must be true to our faith. I hear this a lot: All religions are the same. All get us to the same place! If that is true, then Christ wasted his time on earth. He died a shameful, terrible death for no reason. That would be horrible and even absurd. By the way, Christ’s death and resurrection were written about in the secular literature of the day. And the Bible mentions that 300 people witnessed his resurrection. His existence is a proven fact.
Perhaps I should pause and define religions. Religion is a system or way of expressing one’s spiritual belief; it is typically a large body that subscribes to a particular spiritual leader. A religion is not the same as a denomination. Denominations are variations of expression within the same belief system. When we say religion, we mean religions like Buddhism, Hinduism, Mormonism, and Christianity to name a few. Methodists, Baptists, Presbyterians are denominations within the Christian religion. If you look deep enough, you will find that religions have some things in common but really are as different as night and day. The thing that sets Christianity apart from all others is that God became a man, died for sins, rose again to victory, and opened the door to heaven for all who believe in him.
Jesus Christ is precious! We don’t have to make excuses for that nor water that down. To water down the epiphany – the appearing – the making known of Christ – would be a tragic mistake. The star stopped at Bethlehem, above the baby Jesus. The world has not been the same since. Stick to your faith. Jump in with both feet or don’t bother! What God needs today are people willing to give their very best to share the unparallel love of God through Jesus Christ.
One more thing – the wise men were truly wise. They listened to God who communicated to them through a dream. And they traveled in a group. They shared their faith in community and found their support in community. We can not make a new year’s resolution stick unless we have accountability. That is the number one reason why resolutions fail, I think. Susan and I are exercising together. If I did not have her helping me to do that, I wouldn’t do it. My goal is to lose 20 lbs. I’ve gotten off to a good start thanks to Susan.
Please find someone to be your partner – your helper – your motivator – your checker-upper! When we have to report our progress, we are more likely to succeed.
You will find a pink card in your materials today. If you would write down one New Year’s resolution as way of dedication, and then bring it forward and place on the altar, we will dedicate your efforts to God and I for one will pray for you. If you wish to add your name and you would like me to ask you about your progress from time to time, I would be happy to. Let us be serious, as we trust God for the increase of growth in our lives.
Thursday, January 03, 2008
December, 30, 2007 - "New Year's Resolutions"
Isaiah 63:7-9
(Isa 63:7 NRSV) I will recount the gracious deeds of the LORD, the praiseworthy acts of the LORD, because of all that the LORD has done for us, and the great favor to the house of Israel that he has shown them according to his mercy, according to the abundance of his steadfast love.
(Isa 63:8 NRSV) For he said, "Surely they are my people, children who will not deal falsely"; and he became their savior
(Isa 63:9 NRSV) in all their distress. It was no messenger or angel but his presence that saved them; in his love and in his pity he redeemed them; he lifted them up and carried them all the days of old.
It was the week after Christmas. The pastor came into work and noticed that the baby Jesus figurine was missing from the nativity scene. He shook his head and went into the office. Through the window he noticed a little boy running down the street pulling a bright shiny red wagon. In the wagon was a blue baby blanket. The pastor grabbed his coat and ran outside. When he caught up with the little boy, he saw the baby Jesus figurine nestled in the blanket.
“Son, where did you get the little baby Jesus that’s in you wagon?” the pastor asked. The little boy politely replied, “I got him from the church.” “And why did you take him?” asked the pastor. The little boy replied with a grin, “Well, about a week before Christmas, I prayed to Jesus. I told him if he would bring me a red wagon for Christmas, I would take him for a ride around the block!”
What will we do for Christ this next year? If we are born-again believers , we have been given so very much. Let’s begin the new year by
1. Recounting God’s gracious acts (v. 7).
a. Things we have received: gifts, compliments, friends, family
b. Things not received: sickness, losses
Isaiah was asking the people of God to sum up their blessings, to total them, and see what God has been up to. This was meant to encourage the folks – to lead them to praise their awesome God.
Perhaps some of us have a hard time doing this. Maybe we feel like God has not been so good to us. Think about that again. Think about the roof over our heads, the ability to come to church today, even the breath that we breath!
There are many other blessings that we may not have thought of F.E. Marsh has enumerated some of these blessings:
An acceptance that can never be questioned. (Ephesians 1:6).
An inheritance that can never be lost (I Peter 1:3-5).
A deliverance that can never be excelled (2 Corinthians l:10).
A grace that can never be limited (2 Corinthians 12:9).
A hope that can never be disappointed. (Hebrews 6:18, 19).
A bounty that can never be withdrawn. (I Colossians 3:21-23).
A joy that need never be diminished (John 15:11).
A nearness to God that can never be reversed (Ephesians 2:13).
A peace that can never be disturbed (John 14:27).
A righteousness that can never be tarnished (2 Corinthians 5:21).
A salvation that can never be canceled (Hebrews 5:9).
One morning R.C. Chapman, a devout Christian, was asked how he was feeling. "I'm burdened this morning!" was his reply. But his happy countenance contradicted his words. So the questioner exclaimed in surprise, "Are you really burdened, Mr. Chapman?" "Yes, but it's a wonderful burden--it's an overabundance of blessings for which I cannot find enough time or words to express my gratitude!" Seeing the puzzled look on the face of his friend, Chapman added with a smile, "I am referring to Psalm 68:19, which fully describes my condition. In that verse the Father in heaven reminds us that He 'daily loads us with benefits.'" (Source Unknown.)
Remember
2. God’s favor is based on God’s mercy and grace (v. 7).
a. We love because God first loved us (First John 4:19).
During the building of the Golden Gate Bridge over San Francisco Bay, construction fell badly behind schedule because several workers had accidentally fallen from the scaffolding to their deaths. Engineers and administrators could find no solution to the costly delays. Finally, someone suggested a gigantic net be hung under the bridge to catch any who fell. Finally in spite of the enormous cost, the engineers opted for the net. After it was installed, progress was hardly interrupted. A worker or two fell into the net but were saved. Ultimately, all the time lost to fear was regained by replacing fear with faith in the net. As we paid nothing for God's eternal love and nothing for the Son of His love, and nothing for His Spirit and our grace and faith, and nothing for our eternal rest...What an astonishing thought it will be to think of the unmeasurable difference between our deservings and our receivings. O, how free was all this love, and how free is this enjoyed glory (Richard Baxter, The Free Gift.)
Finally,
3. God’s plan of salvation was enacted far before Christ came (vs. 8 & 9).
a. God’s plan was a plan that God enacted from the beginning.
This means several things, but I want to focus on the fact that this points to God as a planning God. And if God is a planner, so should we be planners. Having said that, each Sunday is a fresh start to a new week. How many of us, when we miss, feel like the week just isn’t the same? Each new year is an opportunity to start over – a new beginning. We should, therefore, pause and relect.
b. Take stock: are you growing? What needs to change?
My grandpa, who is 91, wrote out an incredible sermon for me. He handcopied – 16 pages front and back, a sermon written by a famous preacher – Jonathan Edwards. Rev. Edwards was one of several preachers who ignited the great awakening in the 1740's
. Here is the Editor’s note to the sermon “Sinners in the hands of an angry God” by Jonathan Edwards:
This sermon by Jonathan Edwards is probably the most famous sermon ever preached in America. As Edwards preached, strong men and women held onto the pews and cried out for mercy, pleading with the preacher: “Is there no way of escape?” Hundreds were converted after hearing the sermon. For nearly 250 years this powerful sermon, first delivered on a warm summer’s day in 1741, has touched hearts, changed lives and led to the salvation of sinners.
I thought that it would be a great idea to take a look at the New Year’s resolutions made by such a preacher, as a way to understand how to made a resolution stick. For one particular year, Rev. Edwards wrote out 12 resolutions.
Being sensible that I am unable to do anything without God's help, I do humble entreat Him, by His grace, to enable me to keep these Resolutions, so far as they are agreeable to His will, for Christ's sake. [I will] remember to read over these Resolutions once a week.
Resolved, That I will do whatsoever I think to be most to the glory of God, and my own good, profit, and pleasure, in the whole of my duration; without any consideration of the time, whether now, or never so many myriads of ages hence.
Resolved, to do whatever I think to be my duty, and most for the good and advantage of mankind in general.
Resolved, Never to lose one moment of time, but to improve it in the most profitable way I possibly can.
Resolved, to live with all my might, while I do live.
Resolved, Never to do anything, which I should be afraid to do if it were the last hour of my life.
Resolved, Never to do anything out of revenge.
Resolved, Never to speak evil of any one, so that it shall tend to his dishonour, more or less, upon no account except for some real good.
Resolved, To study the Scriptures so steadily, constantly, and frequently, as that I may find, and plainly perceive, myself to grow in the knowledge of the same.
Resolved, Never to count that a prayer, nor to let that pass as a prayer, nor that as a petition of a prayer, which is so made, that I cannot hope that God will answer it; nor that as a confession which I cannot hope God will accept.
Resolved, To ask myself, at the end of every day, week, month, and year, wherein I could possibly, in any respect, have done better.
Resolved, Never to give over, nor in the least to slacken, my fight with my corruptions, however unsuccessful I may be.
Resolved, After afflictions, to inquire, what I am the better for them; what good I have got by them, and what I might have got by them.
Resolved, Always to do that which I shall wish I had done when I see others do it. Let there be something of benevolence in all that I speak.
Jonathan Edwards, The Works of Jonathan Edwards, Vol. 1.
It may be a bit too much for most of us to write out 12 resolutions. So, what one thing really needs to change in your life? Write it down, review it weekly, pray for God’s help in achieving it. Be resolute, like Jonathan Edwards. This may be your best year ever. Happy New Year!
Isaiah 63:7-9
(Isa 63:7 NRSV) I will recount the gracious deeds of the LORD, the praiseworthy acts of the LORD, because of all that the LORD has done for us, and the great favor to the house of Israel that he has shown them according to his mercy, according to the abundance of his steadfast love.
(Isa 63:8 NRSV) For he said, "Surely they are my people, children who will not deal falsely"; and he became their savior
(Isa 63:9 NRSV) in all their distress. It was no messenger or angel but his presence that saved them; in his love and in his pity he redeemed them; he lifted them up and carried them all the days of old.
It was the week after Christmas. The pastor came into work and noticed that the baby Jesus figurine was missing from the nativity scene. He shook his head and went into the office. Through the window he noticed a little boy running down the street pulling a bright shiny red wagon. In the wagon was a blue baby blanket. The pastor grabbed his coat and ran outside. When he caught up with the little boy, he saw the baby Jesus figurine nestled in the blanket.
“Son, where did you get the little baby Jesus that’s in you wagon?” the pastor asked. The little boy politely replied, “I got him from the church.” “And why did you take him?” asked the pastor. The little boy replied with a grin, “Well, about a week before Christmas, I prayed to Jesus. I told him if he would bring me a red wagon for Christmas, I would take him for a ride around the block!”
What will we do for Christ this next year? If we are born-again believers , we have been given so very much. Let’s begin the new year by
1. Recounting God’s gracious acts (v. 7).
a. Things we have received: gifts, compliments, friends, family
b. Things not received: sickness, losses
Isaiah was asking the people of God to sum up their blessings, to total them, and see what God has been up to. This was meant to encourage the folks – to lead them to praise their awesome God.
Perhaps some of us have a hard time doing this. Maybe we feel like God has not been so good to us. Think about that again. Think about the roof over our heads, the ability to come to church today, even the breath that we breath!
There are many other blessings that we may not have thought of F.E. Marsh has enumerated some of these blessings:
An acceptance that can never be questioned. (Ephesians 1:6).
An inheritance that can never be lost (I Peter 1:3-5).
A deliverance that can never be excelled (2 Corinthians l:10).
A grace that can never be limited (2 Corinthians 12:9).
A hope that can never be disappointed. (Hebrews 6:18, 19).
A bounty that can never be withdrawn. (I Colossians 3:21-23).
A joy that need never be diminished (John 15:11).
A nearness to God that can never be reversed (Ephesians 2:13).
A peace that can never be disturbed (John 14:27).
A righteousness that can never be tarnished (2 Corinthians 5:21).
A salvation that can never be canceled (Hebrews 5:9).
One morning R.C. Chapman, a devout Christian, was asked how he was feeling. "I'm burdened this morning!" was his reply. But his happy countenance contradicted his words. So the questioner exclaimed in surprise, "Are you really burdened, Mr. Chapman?" "Yes, but it's a wonderful burden--it's an overabundance of blessings for which I cannot find enough time or words to express my gratitude!" Seeing the puzzled look on the face of his friend, Chapman added with a smile, "I am referring to Psalm 68:19, which fully describes my condition. In that verse the Father in heaven reminds us that He 'daily loads us with benefits.'" (Source Unknown.)
Remember
2. God’s favor is based on God’s mercy and grace (v. 7).
a. We love because God first loved us (First John 4:19).
During the building of the Golden Gate Bridge over San Francisco Bay, construction fell badly behind schedule because several workers had accidentally fallen from the scaffolding to their deaths. Engineers and administrators could find no solution to the costly delays. Finally, someone suggested a gigantic net be hung under the bridge to catch any who fell. Finally in spite of the enormous cost, the engineers opted for the net. After it was installed, progress was hardly interrupted. A worker or two fell into the net but were saved. Ultimately, all the time lost to fear was regained by replacing fear with faith in the net. As we paid nothing for God's eternal love and nothing for the Son of His love, and nothing for His Spirit and our grace and faith, and nothing for our eternal rest...What an astonishing thought it will be to think of the unmeasurable difference between our deservings and our receivings. O, how free was all this love, and how free is this enjoyed glory (Richard Baxter, The Free Gift.)
Finally,
3. God’s plan of salvation was enacted far before Christ came (vs. 8 & 9).
a. God’s plan was a plan that God enacted from the beginning.
This means several things, but I want to focus on the fact that this points to God as a planning God. And if God is a planner, so should we be planners. Having said that, each Sunday is a fresh start to a new week. How many of us, when we miss, feel like the week just isn’t the same? Each new year is an opportunity to start over – a new beginning. We should, therefore, pause and relect.
b. Take stock: are you growing? What needs to change?
My grandpa, who is 91, wrote out an incredible sermon for me. He handcopied – 16 pages front and back, a sermon written by a famous preacher – Jonathan Edwards. Rev. Edwards was one of several preachers who ignited the great awakening in the 1740's
. Here is the Editor’s note to the sermon “Sinners in the hands of an angry God” by Jonathan Edwards:
This sermon by Jonathan Edwards is probably the most famous sermon ever preached in America. As Edwards preached, strong men and women held onto the pews and cried out for mercy, pleading with the preacher: “Is there no way of escape?” Hundreds were converted after hearing the sermon. For nearly 250 years this powerful sermon, first delivered on a warm summer’s day in 1741, has touched hearts, changed lives and led to the salvation of sinners.
I thought that it would be a great idea to take a look at the New Year’s resolutions made by such a preacher, as a way to understand how to made a resolution stick. For one particular year, Rev. Edwards wrote out 12 resolutions.
Being sensible that I am unable to do anything without God's help, I do humble entreat Him, by His grace, to enable me to keep these Resolutions, so far as they are agreeable to His will, for Christ's sake. [I will] remember to read over these Resolutions once a week.
Resolved, That I will do whatsoever I think to be most to the glory of God, and my own good, profit, and pleasure, in the whole of my duration; without any consideration of the time, whether now, or never so many myriads of ages hence.
Resolved, to do whatever I think to be my duty, and most for the good and advantage of mankind in general.
Resolved, Never to lose one moment of time, but to improve it in the most profitable way I possibly can.
Resolved, to live with all my might, while I do live.
Resolved, Never to do anything, which I should be afraid to do if it were the last hour of my life.
Resolved, Never to do anything out of revenge.
Resolved, Never to speak evil of any one, so that it shall tend to his dishonour, more or less, upon no account except for some real good.
Resolved, To study the Scriptures so steadily, constantly, and frequently, as that I may find, and plainly perceive, myself to grow in the knowledge of the same.
Resolved, Never to count that a prayer, nor to let that pass as a prayer, nor that as a petition of a prayer, which is so made, that I cannot hope that God will answer it; nor that as a confession which I cannot hope God will accept.
Resolved, To ask myself, at the end of every day, week, month, and year, wherein I could possibly, in any respect, have done better.
Resolved, Never to give over, nor in the least to slacken, my fight with my corruptions, however unsuccessful I may be.
Resolved, After afflictions, to inquire, what I am the better for them; what good I have got by them, and what I might have got by them.
Resolved, Always to do that which I shall wish I had done when I see others do it. Let there be something of benevolence in all that I speak.
Jonathan Edwards, The Works of Jonathan Edwards, Vol. 1.
It may be a bit too much for most of us to write out 12 resolutions. So, what one thing really needs to change in your life? Write it down, review it weekly, pray for God’s help in achieving it. Be resolute, like Jonathan Edwards. This may be your best year ever. Happy New Year!
December 23, 2007 - “Character”
Miss Jones, an elderly, single lady, lived in a small Midwestern community. She had the distinction of being the oldest resident of the town. One day, she died, and the editor of the local newspaper wanted to print a little caption commemorating Miss Jones’s death. However, the more he thought about it, the more he became aware that while Miss Jones had never done anything terribly wrong, yet she had never actually done anything noteworthy. While musing over this, the editor went down to have his morning coffee and met the owner of the tombstone establishment in the little community. The tombstone proprietor stated that he had been having the same problem. He wanted to put something on Miss Jones’s tombstone beside just her birthday and death date, but he couldn’t think of anything of significance that she had ever done.
The editor decided to go back to his office and assign to the first reporter he came across the task of writing up a small article suitable for both the paper and the tombstone. Upon returning to the office, the only fellow around was the sports editor, so he gave him the assignment.
They tell me if you pass through that little community you will find the following statement on her tombstone:
Here lies the bones of Nancy Jones
For her life held no terrors.
She lived an old maid.
She died an old maid.
No hits, no runs, no errors. (Hewett, Illustrations Unlimited, p. 58).
The moral of the story might be: never let your sports editor write an epitaph! Of course it could also be: while on planet earth, make a difference. Take an appropriate risk now and then. Joseph did. No one can say that his life was mediocre. His appropriate risks revealed that he was a person of character - a person to model.
When Ruth Graham, the wife of Billy Graham, was a teenage girl going off to Korea for schooling from her childhood home in China, she fully intended to be a confirmed old maid Missionary to Tibet. But she did give the thought of a husband some serious consideration. She wrote the following list of particulars:
If I marry, he must be so tall that when he is on his knees, as one has said, he reaches all the way to heaven. His shoulders must be broad enough to bear the burden of a family. His lips must be strong enough to smile, firm enough to say no, and tender enough to kiss. Love must be so deep that it takes its stand in Christ and so wide that it takes the whole lost world in. He must be active enough to save souls. He must be big enough to be gentle and great enough to be thoughtful. His arms must be strong enough to carry a little child (Hewett).
Ruth must have witnessed a great model of a husband in her own Father. She knew what kind of husband God intended for her to have. I think that Joseph’s father Jacob, must have been a great role model. Whether or not we have had great mentors, Christ mentors us through His Word. Today, we find out three things about Joseph, husband of Mary and earthly father of Jesus.
1. Joseph's distress (v. 18). Joseph is heartbroken, assuming his pregnant wife-to-be has been unfaithful. Joseph thought that his love had been betrayed. If you have ever been betrayed, you know how deep it cuts – how much it hurts.
2. Joseph's decision (v. 19). Not wanting to publicly disgrace Mary, Joseph decides to break their engagement secretly.
Joseph thought of Mary much more than he thought of himself. His reputation was at stake. Once the word got out, everyone would have assumed that Joseph had acted inappropriately toward Mary. Of course, Joseph could have made a very public announcement denying that and accusing Mary of impropriety. But instead, Joseph took a higher road and decided to secretly break the engagement. He wanted to spare the woman that he stilled loved any public disgrace.
3. Joseph's dream (vs. 20-25). Joseph is reassured that Mary's pregnancy is caused by the Holy Spirit. One might think that this was an unusual method for communicating God’s will. Of course, this was an unusual event. God does sometimes communicate through dreams. God can communicate any way tha God wants to; Jesus said that even the rocks would cry out if God so declared it. The question is, “Are we listening?” Do we look for God’s leadings, God’s promptings, God’s directings? God is always at work. Are we perceiving it? Joseph did, and became the man of the hour! He had character!
How do you get character? You have to be humble which makes you teachable and enables you to say you are sorry when you have hurt another or been wrong. You have to be obedient to God. Lots of people say, "If God would just tell me what to do, I would do it." That's no guarantee. Lot's of people were told by God what to do, but chose not to, to be disobedient. Jonah was one. God told him exactly what to do, and he stubbornly chose the opposite thing to do. You choose to be obedient and to follow God's word. You remain as consistent as possible. You do what you say you'll do. And remember, you don't get character over night. You develop it over time.
An ancient Chinese teacher and philosopher said that he had 3 precious things that he held fast to: gentleness, frugality, and humility. He said, "Be gentle and you can be bold; be frugal and you can be liberal; avoid putting yourself before others, and you can become a leader among people."
In making the most of life, I like what one person wrote: if I can throw a single ray of light across the darkened pathway of another; if I can aid some soul to clearer sight of life and duty, and thus bless my brother or sister; if! can wipe from any human cheek a tear, I shall not have lived my life in vain.
If I can guide some erring one to truth, inspire within his or her heart a sense of duty; if I can plant within my soul of rosy youth a sense of right, a love of truth and beauty; if! can teach one person that God and heaven are near, I shall not then have lived in vain while here.
If from my mind I banish doubt and fear, and keep my life attuned to love and kindness; If I can scatter light and hope and cheer, and help remove the curse of mental blindness; if I can make more joy, more hope, less pain, I shall not have lived and loved in vain.
If by life's roadside I can plant a tree, beneath whose shade some wearied head may rest, thought I may never share its beauty, I shall yet be truly blest - though no one knows my name, nor drops a flower upon my grave, I shall not have lived in vain while here. Funny thing is, the author of this is unknown.
Maybe we have been heading for a Nancy Jones type epitaph. There is still time to change that. How about this:
Here lies the body of a Christian soul.
For their life held no terrors.
They lived for God.
They died for God.
Some hits, some homeruns, and yes, some errors.
Leonardo da Vinci had started work on a large canvas in his studio. For a while he worked at it – choosing the subject, planning the perspective, sketching the outline, applying the colors, with his own inimitable genius. Then suddenly he ceased, the painting still unfinished, and, summoning one of his students, invited him to complete the work. The student protested that he was both unworthy and unable to complete the great painting which his master had begun. But da Vinci silenced him, “Will not what I have done inspire you to do your best?”
Our master began his canvass two thousand years ago – by what he said, by what he did, and supremely by what he suffered. He illustrated his message and he has left us to finish the picture (Hewett)
Miss Jones, an elderly, single lady, lived in a small Midwestern community. She had the distinction of being the oldest resident of the town. One day, she died, and the editor of the local newspaper wanted to print a little caption commemorating Miss Jones’s death. However, the more he thought about it, the more he became aware that while Miss Jones had never done anything terribly wrong, yet she had never actually done anything noteworthy. While musing over this, the editor went down to have his morning coffee and met the owner of the tombstone establishment in the little community. The tombstone proprietor stated that he had been having the same problem. He wanted to put something on Miss Jones’s tombstone beside just her birthday and death date, but he couldn’t think of anything of significance that she had ever done.
The editor decided to go back to his office and assign to the first reporter he came across the task of writing up a small article suitable for both the paper and the tombstone. Upon returning to the office, the only fellow around was the sports editor, so he gave him the assignment.
They tell me if you pass through that little community you will find the following statement on her tombstone:
Here lies the bones of Nancy Jones
For her life held no terrors.
She lived an old maid.
She died an old maid.
No hits, no runs, no errors. (Hewett, Illustrations Unlimited, p. 58).
The moral of the story might be: never let your sports editor write an epitaph! Of course it could also be: while on planet earth, make a difference. Take an appropriate risk now and then. Joseph did. No one can say that his life was mediocre. His appropriate risks revealed that he was a person of character - a person to model.
When Ruth Graham, the wife of Billy Graham, was a teenage girl going off to Korea for schooling from her childhood home in China, she fully intended to be a confirmed old maid Missionary to Tibet. But she did give the thought of a husband some serious consideration. She wrote the following list of particulars:
If I marry, he must be so tall that when he is on his knees, as one has said, he reaches all the way to heaven. His shoulders must be broad enough to bear the burden of a family. His lips must be strong enough to smile, firm enough to say no, and tender enough to kiss. Love must be so deep that it takes its stand in Christ and so wide that it takes the whole lost world in. He must be active enough to save souls. He must be big enough to be gentle and great enough to be thoughtful. His arms must be strong enough to carry a little child (Hewett).
Ruth must have witnessed a great model of a husband in her own Father. She knew what kind of husband God intended for her to have. I think that Joseph’s father Jacob, must have been a great role model. Whether or not we have had great mentors, Christ mentors us through His Word. Today, we find out three things about Joseph, husband of Mary and earthly father of Jesus.
1. Joseph's distress (v. 18). Joseph is heartbroken, assuming his pregnant wife-to-be has been unfaithful. Joseph thought that his love had been betrayed. If you have ever been betrayed, you know how deep it cuts – how much it hurts.
2. Joseph's decision (v. 19). Not wanting to publicly disgrace Mary, Joseph decides to break their engagement secretly.
Joseph thought of Mary much more than he thought of himself. His reputation was at stake. Once the word got out, everyone would have assumed that Joseph had acted inappropriately toward Mary. Of course, Joseph could have made a very public announcement denying that and accusing Mary of impropriety. But instead, Joseph took a higher road and decided to secretly break the engagement. He wanted to spare the woman that he stilled loved any public disgrace.
3. Joseph's dream (vs. 20-25). Joseph is reassured that Mary's pregnancy is caused by the Holy Spirit. One might think that this was an unusual method for communicating God’s will. Of course, this was an unusual event. God does sometimes communicate through dreams. God can communicate any way tha God wants to; Jesus said that even the rocks would cry out if God so declared it. The question is, “Are we listening?” Do we look for God’s leadings, God’s promptings, God’s directings? God is always at work. Are we perceiving it? Joseph did, and became the man of the hour! He had character!
How do you get character? You have to be humble which makes you teachable and enables you to say you are sorry when you have hurt another or been wrong. You have to be obedient to God. Lots of people say, "If God would just tell me what to do, I would do it." That's no guarantee. Lot's of people were told by God what to do, but chose not to, to be disobedient. Jonah was one. God told him exactly what to do, and he stubbornly chose the opposite thing to do. You choose to be obedient and to follow God's word. You remain as consistent as possible. You do what you say you'll do. And remember, you don't get character over night. You develop it over time.
An ancient Chinese teacher and philosopher said that he had 3 precious things that he held fast to: gentleness, frugality, and humility. He said, "Be gentle and you can be bold; be frugal and you can be liberal; avoid putting yourself before others, and you can become a leader among people."
In making the most of life, I like what one person wrote: if I can throw a single ray of light across the darkened pathway of another; if I can aid some soul to clearer sight of life and duty, and thus bless my brother or sister; if! can wipe from any human cheek a tear, I shall not have lived my life in vain.
If I can guide some erring one to truth, inspire within his or her heart a sense of duty; if I can plant within my soul of rosy youth a sense of right, a love of truth and beauty; if! can teach one person that God and heaven are near, I shall not then have lived in vain while here.
If from my mind I banish doubt and fear, and keep my life attuned to love and kindness; If I can scatter light and hope and cheer, and help remove the curse of mental blindness; if I can make more joy, more hope, less pain, I shall not have lived and loved in vain.
If by life's roadside I can plant a tree, beneath whose shade some wearied head may rest, thought I may never share its beauty, I shall yet be truly blest - though no one knows my name, nor drops a flower upon my grave, I shall not have lived in vain while here. Funny thing is, the author of this is unknown.
Maybe we have been heading for a Nancy Jones type epitaph. There is still time to change that. How about this:
Here lies the body of a Christian soul.
For their life held no terrors.
They lived for God.
They died for God.
Some hits, some homeruns, and yes, some errors.
Leonardo da Vinci had started work on a large canvas in his studio. For a while he worked at it – choosing the subject, planning the perspective, sketching the outline, applying the colors, with his own inimitable genius. Then suddenly he ceased, the painting still unfinished, and, summoning one of his students, invited him to complete the work. The student protested that he was both unworthy and unable to complete the great painting which his master had begun. But da Vinci silenced him, “Will not what I have done inspire you to do your best?”
Our master began his canvass two thousand years ago – by what he said, by what he did, and supremely by what he suffered. He illustrated his message and he has left us to finish the picture (Hewett)
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