Be doing
“Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom the master has put in charge of the servants in his household to give them their food at the proper time?
It will be good for that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns.
I tell you the truth, he will put him in charge of all his possessions.
But suppose that servant is wicked and says to himself, ‘My master is staying away a long time,’ and he then begins to beat his fellow servants and to eat and drink with drunkards.
The master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he is not aware of.
He will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Matthew 24:45-51
Jimmy Carter former president of the United States said,
“We should live our lives as though Christ was coming this afternoon.”
As Christians we need to be prepared for the coming of Christ. We need to be working for him. We need to be doing whatever we can for Christ.
At my church there is a man by the name of David. David has a learning disability it’s not a serious disability but it is a handicap in many ways.
David however doesn’t see it that way. To him it’s normal and he loves the Lord. This man would run the church if he could.
Over the years he’s worked in everything from the children’s ministry to various outreaches.
He is uninhibited when it come to doing things. He has the idea that he can do it and quite often he does.
We had an outreach to the community recently and he went around to various stores and companies asking for donations of toys and other things for us to give away. He got a lot of things.
People in the area know David and respect him.
When the leader of our tea room got sick last autumn David took it upon himself to keep it open. He made sure that the doors stayed open. That there were snacks and of course tea and coffee for those who came.
He enlisted others who could minister the word of God and lead singing to help keep things going. It worked.
Others would have let it shut.
David is an example of what we all should be doing. Doing our best to serve the Lord day in and day out. To never stop.
Our church has a general policy that we don’t stop our ministries during the summer a common thing here in Canada.
We keep things going in the hope of reaching as many people as possible. We believe in reaching our world as best we can.
Now we’re far from perfect our little congregation doesn’t have a big budget to do things. Still we do what we can and that is all that is important.
We as individuals need to be doing what we can all the time. We need to live a life that reflects our beliefs as Christians.
We need to be witnessing to people in word and in deed.
We need to do what ever we can within our church congregation and we need to support ministries both inside our own church congregation and outside.
So that when Jesus does return he will find us working for Him.
Think about it.
Tuesday, 16 September 2014
Monday, 15 September 2014
Weary and Burdened
Weary and burdened
As I write this the comedian Robin Williams has just died. He struggled for many years with mental illness. Sadly it got to him.
I understand what Mr. Williams was going through it is very hard. You see I live with Bipolar affective disorder (manic depression).
Bipolar disorder sends the person between high, highs and low lows with a period of stability in the middle. For me most of my time I do spend down. Although now twenty plus years after I was diagnosed it is relatively under control.
I liken having Bipolar as being in a high powered sports car. You are driving along the road at a high speed the wind is whipping your hair the adrenalin is pumping there’s no feeling like it.
However the car suddenly stops and you jump into a pit of mud wallowing up to your neck in mud and despair. Then just when you think you can’t take it any more you’re back in that sports car racing down the road again the cycle repeating.
The other illustration I usually use is imagine you’re in a snow globe. Simultaneously your inside the globe and you’re holding it.
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You start shaking the globe you know intellectually you are doing it that you’re causing the storm to rage all around yourself in the globe but you’re powerless to stop it so the problem continues.
When your high it is better than any drug. You feel invincible. You can do anything. I use to do two, three, five, six jobs all at the same time and not get anything finished.
It’s a case of get out of my way I can do it better and faster. Let me do it.
As a professional clown I’ve performed when my moods were high and it works out great. Your mind is sharp, going a mile a minute it made me I think a better clown. The comedy just kept coming.
On the other end however is the dark side. Whey you enter that pit of despair that you can’t seem to get out of.
Ecclesiastes states,
“I have seen all the things that are done under the sun; all of them are meaningless, a chasing after the wind.”
Ecclesiastes 1:14.
That could have been a statement I would make when I am on the down side of my illness.
To make matters worse I’ve had Christians. People inside the church say to me that mental illness is not real. I’ve have others say that it’s demon possession and that I should get prayer.
I’ve even had them say it’s a sign of weakness or sin in my life.
With comments like that is it any wonder that people especially within the church where one should feel safe, will not admit they have a mental illness.
One in five people will suffer from some form of mental illness in their life time it is the same inside the church as outside.
We in the church need to me reaching out to these people.
For me several things have made a difference in my life.
My family doctor and psychiatrist both of whom know their stuff and have helped me get on the right medications.
Then there’s group therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy.
My wife and family who have supported me through some of the darkest days of my life when suicide was heavy on my mind.
Many families and marriages break up because of the illness.
Also there was my faith. My belief in God and Christ who are a major part of my life and lifestyle.
Jesus said,
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30.
And I can say honestly Christ does give you rest.
In my darkest hours I have gone to God in prayer and I have been comforted. I have been pulled back from the brink. And I have drawn closer in my relationship with Jesus.
Sadly hundreds of people circum to suicide as the result of a mental illness every year.
Many people especially within the church do not want to admit they have it for fear of being ostracised. They are afraid of the stigma that goes with mental illness.
We should be reaching out to them. Not ostracising them or pushing them away.
We would never say to a person with diabetes or a broken leg that it is not real or ostracise them, so why would we do it to someone with mental illness.
Someone with mental illness needs all the help and love give them. We need to be there for them.
There is a phrase that was making the rounds a while ago WWJD, What Would Jesus Do.
If Jesus knew a mentally ill person What would he do?
Think about it.
Then do it.
Post Script
If you or someone you know is behaving oddly. If they tend to be depressed for long periods of time or are doing things that are out of character for them. Talk to them.
Mental illnesses do go undiagnosed for long periods of time. I know for me looking back I probably had signs showing as early as twenty years prior to my diagnosis. But people simply put it down to me being me.
People who suspect they may have clinical depression, Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or any other mental illness need to see a doctor as soon as possible.
In Canada the Canadian Mental Health Association can help.
Psychiatrists are covered under the various provincial health programs and your family doctor will know where to direct you for help.
Remember Mental illness is real and can lead to suicide and death. Please do not take it lightly. Get help.
I understand what Mr. Williams was going through it is very hard. You see I live with Bipolar affective disorder (manic depression).
Bipolar disorder sends the person between high, highs and low lows with a period of stability in the middle. For me most of my time I do spend down. Although now twenty plus years after I was diagnosed it is relatively under control.
I liken having Bipolar as being in a high powered sports car. You are driving along the road at a high speed the wind is whipping your hair the adrenalin is pumping there’s no feeling like it.
However the car suddenly stops and you jump into a pit of mud wallowing up to your neck in mud and despair. Then just when you think you can’t take it any more you’re back in that sports car racing down the road again the cycle repeating.
The other illustration I usually use is imagine you’re in a snow globe. Simultaneously your inside the globe and you’re holding it.
You start shaking the globe you know intellectually you are doing it that you’re causing the storm to rage all around yourself in the globe but you’re powerless to stop it so the problem continues.When your high it is better than any drug. You feel invincible. You can do anything. I use to do two, three, five, six jobs all at the same time and not get anything finished.
It’s a case of get out of my way I can do it better and faster. Let me do it.
As a professional clown I’ve performed when my moods were high and it works out great. Your mind is sharp, going a mile a minute it made me I think a better clown. The comedy just kept coming.
On the other end however is the dark side. Whey you enter that pit of despair that you can’t seem to get out of.
Ecclesiastes states,
“I have seen all the things that are done under the sun; all of them are meaningless, a chasing after the wind.”
Ecclesiastes 1:14.
That could have been a statement I would make when I am on the down side of my illness.
To make matters worse I’ve had Christians. People inside the church say to me that mental illness is not real. I’ve have others say that it’s demon possession and that I should get prayer.
I’ve even had them say it’s a sign of weakness or sin in my life.
With comments like that is it any wonder that people especially within the church where one should feel safe, will not admit they have a mental illness.
One in five people will suffer from some form of mental illness in their life time it is the same inside the church as outside.
We in the church need to me reaching out to these people.
For me several things have made a difference in my life.
My family doctor and psychiatrist both of whom know their stuff and have helped me get on the right medications.
Then there’s group therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy.
My wife and family who have supported me through some of the darkest days of my life when suicide was heavy on my mind.
Many families and marriages break up because of the illness.
Also there was my faith. My belief in God and Christ who are a major part of my life and lifestyle.
Jesus said,
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30.
And I can say honestly Christ does give you rest.
In my darkest hours I have gone to God in prayer and I have been comforted. I have been pulled back from the brink. And I have drawn closer in my relationship with Jesus.
Sadly hundreds of people circum to suicide as the result of a mental illness every year.
Many people especially within the church do not want to admit they have it for fear of being ostracised. They are afraid of the stigma that goes with mental illness.
We should be reaching out to them. Not ostracising them or pushing them away.
We would never say to a person with diabetes or a broken leg that it is not real or ostracise them, so why would we do it to someone with mental illness.
Someone with mental illness needs all the help and love give them. We need to be there for them.
There is a phrase that was making the rounds a while ago WWJD, What Would Jesus Do.
If Jesus knew a mentally ill person What would he do?
Think about it.
Then do it.
Post Script
If you or someone you know is behaving oddly. If they tend to be depressed for long periods of time or are doing things that are out of character for them. Talk to them.
Mental illnesses do go undiagnosed for long periods of time. I know for me looking back I probably had signs showing as early as twenty years prior to my diagnosis. But people simply put it down to me being me.
People who suspect they may have clinical depression, Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or any other mental illness need to see a doctor as soon as possible.
In Canada the Canadian Mental Health Association can help.
Psychiatrists are covered under the various provincial health programs and your family doctor will know where to direct you for help.
Remember Mental illness is real and can lead to suicide and death. Please do not take it lightly. Get help.
Sunday, 14 September 2014
Mercy and the Law
Mercy and the Law
“If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing right.
But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers.
For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.
For he who said, “Do not commit adultery,” also said, “Do not murder.” If you do not commit adultery but do commit murder, you have become a lawbreaker.
Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom,
because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment!”
James 2:8-13.
Do you speak and act as those who are going to be judged? Do you show favouritism?
Some time ago I met a person who claimed to be Christian. Yet when we were in the downtown of our city and he seen ‘street person’, he said quite unashamedly to me. “I don’t know why he can’t just get a job. He’d rather beg than get a real job.”
The person he saw was one of the many people who sadly live on the streets with mental illness.
The person judged the other on appearances without knowing the facts.
As Christians we are called to show mercy because we from time, to time fall into sin ourselves. No one is perfect.
When we as Christians minister we must minister to people remembering all the time that we will also be judged by what we do here on earth.
It is true we are saved through faith and our faith saves us. Never the less we will be judged on how we deal with our fellow man.
There is an interesting quote from the Talmud a Jewish holy book. It is I believe aimed at believers. It states,
“When a man appears before the Throne of Judgment, the first question he is asked is not, “Have you believed in God?” Or “Have you prayed and observed the ritual? “He is asked: “have you dealt honourably and faithfully in all your dealings with your fellow men?”
The Talmud
Have you?
Think about it.
“If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing right.
But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers.
For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.
For he who said, “Do not commit adultery,” also said, “Do not murder.” If you do not commit adultery but do commit murder, you have become a lawbreaker.
Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom,
because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment!”
James 2:8-13.
Do you speak and act as those who are going to be judged? Do you show favouritism?
Some time ago I met a person who claimed to be Christian. Yet when we were in the downtown of our city and he seen ‘street person’, he said quite unashamedly to me. “I don’t know why he can’t just get a job. He’d rather beg than get a real job.”
The person he saw was one of the many people who sadly live on the streets with mental illness.
The person judged the other on appearances without knowing the facts.
As Christians we are called to show mercy because we from time, to time fall into sin ourselves. No one is perfect.
When we as Christians minister we must minister to people remembering all the time that we will also be judged by what we do here on earth.
It is true we are saved through faith and our faith saves us. Never the less we will be judged on how we deal with our fellow man.
There is an interesting quote from the Talmud a Jewish holy book. It is I believe aimed at believers. It states,
“When a man appears before the Throne of Judgment, the first question he is asked is not, “Have you believed in God?” Or “Have you prayed and observed the ritual? “He is asked: “have you dealt honourably and faithfully in all your dealings with your fellow men?”
The Talmud
Have you?
Think about it.
Saturday, 13 September 2014
His Importance
His Importance
I believe it was Kenneth Scott Latourette, former President of American Historic Society who wrote about Jesus saying,
“It is evidence of His importance, of the effect that He has had upon history and presumably, of the baffling mystery of His being that no other life ever lived on this planet has evoked so huge a volume of literature among so many people and languages, and that, far from ebbing, the flood continues to mount.”
“As the centuries pass by, the evidence is accumulating that measured by its effect on history, Jesus is the most influential life ever lived on this planet. The influence appears to be mounting.”
“No other life lived on this planet has so widely and deeply affected mankind.”
Many have tried to dismiss Jesus. Some have said he is nothing more than a myth, but myths don’t effect history appreciably.
All the mythical Roman and Greek god’s were superheros of a kind, and they had little effect on civilization. They certainly don’t effect society in the twenty-first century.
Even the emperors of Rome did not have the same effect on history as this humble carpenter from a back water village in a back water province of the Roman emperor.
More evidence exists today from ancient writings about Jesus than about all the Roman emperors.
Historians and archeologist tell us that little of anything survives from the time of Jesus. Yet much survives about this humble man.
Jesus unlike the caesars of Rome, Alexander the Great, Napoleon, and others who conquered the world by force, never drew a sword in anger.
He never lead triumphant armies or conquered any lands.
Instead Jesus a man of peace today leads a following estimated at two point two billion.
A man once approached Jesus and asked,
“”Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?”
Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’
This is the first and greatest commandment.
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Matthew 22:36-40.
Jesus was a man of peace. This Jesus rather than calling his followers to destroy their enemies said,
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.
If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? “
Matthew 5:43-46.
In instilling in his followers the need to show unconditional love to all mankind the teachings of Jesus have reached around the world.
The caesars of Rome, Alexander the Great, Napoleon, and others are dead in their grave, for the most part forgotten. Few even knowing what they ever said.
Yet this man who never led a conquering army or ruled a nation today is the head of a following that exceeds two billion people.
A following that is showing love to the world.
His call to all mankind,
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30
Think about it.
I believe it was Kenneth Scott Latourette, former President of American Historic Society who wrote about Jesus saying,
“It is evidence of His importance, of the effect that He has had upon history and presumably, of the baffling mystery of His being that no other life ever lived on this planet has evoked so huge a volume of literature among so many people and languages, and that, far from ebbing, the flood continues to mount.”
“As the centuries pass by, the evidence is accumulating that measured by its effect on history, Jesus is the most influential life ever lived on this planet. The influence appears to be mounting.”
“No other life lived on this planet has so widely and deeply affected mankind.”
Many have tried to dismiss Jesus. Some have said he is nothing more than a myth, but myths don’t effect history appreciably.
All the mythical Roman and Greek god’s were superheros of a kind, and they had little effect on civilization. They certainly don’t effect society in the twenty-first century.
Even the emperors of Rome did not have the same effect on history as this humble carpenter from a back water village in a back water province of the Roman emperor.
More evidence exists today from ancient writings about Jesus than about all the Roman emperors.
Historians and archeologist tell us that little of anything survives from the time of Jesus. Yet much survives about this humble man.
Jesus unlike the caesars of Rome, Alexander the Great, Napoleon, and others who conquered the world by force, never drew a sword in anger.
He never lead triumphant armies or conquered any lands.
Instead Jesus a man of peace today leads a following estimated at two point two billion.
A man once approached Jesus and asked,
“”Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?”
Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’
This is the first and greatest commandment.
And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
Matthew 22:36-40.
Jesus was a man of peace. This Jesus rather than calling his followers to destroy their enemies said,
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’
But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.
If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? “
Matthew 5:43-46.
In instilling in his followers the need to show unconditional love to all mankind the teachings of Jesus have reached around the world.
The caesars of Rome, Alexander the Great, Napoleon, and others are dead in their grave, for the most part forgotten. Few even knowing what they ever said.
Yet this man who never led a conquering army or ruled a nation today is the head of a following that exceeds two billion people.
A following that is showing love to the world.
His call to all mankind,
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30
Think about it.
Friday, 12 September 2014
The Ride
The Ride“Where am I?
What, am...
I doing here?”
“You are here.”
Says the Conductor.
“Your ticket please.”
“I bought no ticket.
I took no ride.
Where am I?”
“Your ride is over.”
Says the Conductor,
“Your ride is over, You are here. All take the ride.
Your ticket’s paid for, Says the Conductor You are here.
Your ticket please, Please your ticket. Your ticket.
please.”
“I took no ride!
Where am I?
I demand to know!”
“I took no...
ride...
Am I...”
“You are here.
All take the ride.
The ride to eternity.”
Say’s the Conductor.
The ticket paid for,
With My blood.
“I
am
here...
I have no ticket...
And
you
are?”
“Jesus.”
One thing Atheist and Christians agree on is that we will not get out of this life alive. That we, if you will, are riding on a train to eternity.
Where the believer or non believer will spend eternity will be determined by a free ticket offered to you and paid for by Jesus Christ the Son of God.
Do you have your ticket?
“Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
John 14:6
Think about it.
Thursday, 11 September 2014
January 14th
January 14th
Outside the air is a warm, seventeen centigrade, unseasonable for this time of year in this part of the world.
A soft, soaking rain is falling from the sky. Cars made a swishing sound as they travel along the almost empty street.
All around there is the noise of the city, slowing, rising to a crescendo, then equally slowly dying to a momentary silence.
Before me, lays a picture of down town edge. At the corner, stands a service station. Its bright lights illuminate the white wall of the restaurant across the street from it. The smell of gasoline mingling with the smell of grilling meat permeates the still air.
My watch reads 2:00 am.
Near the corner an old woman, her torn dress visible below the dirty, shabby, gray winter coat, stumbles along, holding the wall for balance.
Finally, losing her fight to remain upright, she leans her back against the wall and slowly slumps down to the ground, coming to rest over a hot air vent. Alone, she sits motionless as the rain falls.
Who will tell her of God’s love?
Who will love her?
Who?
Jesus said,
“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.
For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in,
I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’
“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink?
When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you?
When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’
“The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’
Matthew 25:34-40
James notes,
What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him?
Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food.
If one of you says to him, “Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it?
In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.
James 2:14-17
Think about it.
Outside the air is a warm, seventeen centigrade, unseasonable for this time of year in this part of the world.
A soft, soaking rain is falling from the sky. Cars made a swishing sound as they travel along the almost empty street.
All around there is the noise of the city, slowing, rising to a crescendo, then equally slowly dying to a momentary silence.
Before me, lays a picture of down town edge. At the corner, stands a service station. Its bright lights illuminate the white wall of the restaurant across the street from it. The smell of gasoline mingling with the smell of grilling meat permeates the still air.
My watch reads 2:00 am.
Near the corner an old woman, her torn dress visible below the dirty, shabby, gray winter coat, stumbles along, holding the wall for balance.
Finally, losing her fight to remain upright, she leans her back against the wall and slowly slumps down to the ground, coming to rest over a hot air vent. Alone, she sits motionless as the rain falls.
Who will tell her of God’s love?
Who will love her?
Who?
Jesus said,
“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.
For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in,
I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’
“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink?
When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you?
When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’
“The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’
Matthew 25:34-40
James notes,
What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him?
Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food.
If one of you says to him, “Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it?
In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.
James 2:14-17
Think about it.
Wednesday, 10 September 2014
Christian Life
Christian life
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship.
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you.
Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.
We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith.
If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.
Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.
Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.
On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good”
Romans 12:1-21
To quote a friend, this chapter has a lot to chew on. Those few words, tell us how we are to live as Christians. A point form look at this chapter goes like this:
1/ vs. 5 in Christ each member belongs to all the others. We are one in Christ.
2/ vs. 6,7 we have different gifts and are to use them in proportion to our faith.
3/ vs. 9 our love must be sincere
4/ vs. 10 we are to be devoted to one another in brotherly love.
5/ vs. 11 we are to keep up our spiritual fervour, serving God.
6/ vs. 12 we are to be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer
7 vs. 13 share with God’s people, who are in need & practice hospitality
8/ vs. 14 bless our persecutors
9/ vs 15 rejoice with those who rejoice, mourn with those who mourn
10/ vs. 16 live in harmony with each other, don’t be proud, but willing to associate with those in low positions.
11/ vs. 17 don’t repay evil with evil & do right in the eyes of everyone
12/ vs. 18 as far as it depends on you live in peace with everyone
13/ vs. 19 do not take revenge
14/ vs. 20 if your enemy is hungry feed him, if thirsty give him a drink
15/ vs. 21 “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
What a list, a list we all fail to follow from time to time.
The reason, we fall short many times, is because we allow the secular world culture, around us to get into the church and into our lives. A quick look around the church, today, shows us we have a “Christian version” of everything the world has.
Many in the church, hardly read the Bible. These people rely on the words of pastors, preachers, and other evangelists, both in church and in the media. That’s if they rely or listen to any preacher from Sunday to Sunday.
All too often, as I have discussed a topic with other Sunday School teachers, I hear “this television evangelists said this” or “that radio preacher said that.”
When I question them, how those evangelists and preachers came to that conclusion, or why they themselves believe it, they can’t tell me.
They can’t tell me because they haven’t taken the time to read for themselves the Word of God.
The only way to know to be a Christian is to study God’s manual on how to be a Christian, the Bible!
No evangelist, preacher, Christian teacher, priest, bishop or pope has all the answers, simply because they are human with human frailties, like all of us.
The Bible has been called a living book, that speaks to the individual, who reads it. Revealing to them the wonders of God, no matter who they are.
Something to do:
Pick up the Bible and read it slowly and deliberately. Ask God to show you His truths within.
Your life and your relationship with God will be richer for it.
Think about it.
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship.
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you.
Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.
We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith.
If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.
Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.
Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.
On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good”
Romans 12:1-21
To quote a friend, this chapter has a lot to chew on. Those few words, tell us how we are to live as Christians. A point form look at this chapter goes like this:
1/ vs. 5 in Christ each member belongs to all the others. We are one in Christ.
2/ vs. 6,7 we have different gifts and are to use them in proportion to our faith.
3/ vs. 9 our love must be sincere
4/ vs. 10 we are to be devoted to one another in brotherly love.
5/ vs. 11 we are to keep up our spiritual fervour, serving God.
6/ vs. 12 we are to be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer
7 vs. 13 share with God’s people, who are in need & practice hospitality
8/ vs. 14 bless our persecutors
9/ vs 15 rejoice with those who rejoice, mourn with those who mourn
10/ vs. 16 live in harmony with each other, don’t be proud, but willing to associate with those in low positions.
11/ vs. 17 don’t repay evil with evil & do right in the eyes of everyone
12/ vs. 18 as far as it depends on you live in peace with everyone
13/ vs. 19 do not take revenge
14/ vs. 20 if your enemy is hungry feed him, if thirsty give him a drink
15/ vs. 21 “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
What a list, a list we all fail to follow from time to time.
The reason, we fall short many times, is because we allow the secular world culture, around us to get into the church and into our lives. A quick look around the church, today, shows us we have a “Christian version” of everything the world has.
Many in the church, hardly read the Bible. These people rely on the words of pastors, preachers, and other evangelists, both in church and in the media. That’s if they rely or listen to any preacher from Sunday to Sunday.
All too often, as I have discussed a topic with other Sunday School teachers, I hear “this television evangelists said this” or “that radio preacher said that.”
When I question them, how those evangelists and preachers came to that conclusion, or why they themselves believe it, they can’t tell me.
They can’t tell me because they haven’t taken the time to read for themselves the Word of God.
The only way to know to be a Christian is to study God’s manual on how to be a Christian, the Bible!
No evangelist, preacher, Christian teacher, priest, bishop or pope has all the answers, simply because they are human with human frailties, like all of us.
The Bible has been called a living book, that speaks to the individual, who reads it. Revealing to them the wonders of God, no matter who they are.
Something to do:
Pick up the Bible and read it slowly and deliberately. Ask God to show you His truths within.
Your life and your relationship with God will be richer for it.
Think about it.
Tuesday, 9 September 2014
We who are saved know it
We who are saved know it.
“The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace; the sinful mind is hostile to God. It does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so.
Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God....
The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.”
Romans 8:6-8,16
Over the years I’ve been asked how we know we are going to heaven. This is the answer I give.
We know, if we are children of God. We know if we have truly given our lives over to God. Our relationship to God is between Him and us. It is a personal thing. No one can truly judge if you are a Christian or not. If you have given your heart and life to God, only you can know that.
Paul states,
“The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.”
Romans 8:16
Over the years, I have had people say to me “such and such a person can’t possibly be saved because he or she is this or that.” When my wife was a librarian at the church we attended at the time, I even had one person, who didn’t know I was my wife’s husband say to me “she can’t possibly be saved because she reads Star Trek, and she actually recommended reading the Tales of Narnia.”
I simply laughed the incident off. I hadn’t the nerve to tell her who I was, and that one of our pastors had just bought the Narnia series for his children.
On other occasion, I was talking with a group of people, most of whom I knew quite well, at a conference. Someone asked how my illness was doing ( have Bi-polar effective disorder).
I told the person, that the meds were starting to keep things in check. Proof being, I was at the Conference. Immediately, someone else standing in the group whom I didn’t know said, very seriously, “How can you be saved and have such an illness. Mental illness is demon possession. .”
I appreciate prayer, at any time, but I was floored that anyone could doubt my salvation. I’ve had no doubt that Christ has been my Saviour, since I was nineteen. I have seen God working within my life, and what He has done through me. As Paul stated,
“The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.”
Romans 8:16 (NIV)
Sometimes, I truly believe that some people in the church are a hindrance to someone’s salvation.
My point in all of this, is to say, only you know for sure if you are saved. It is between you and God.
For me this is what I believe, and most Christians believe is the way to heaven.
The Way to Heaven
1/ “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.”
John 3:16,17.
2 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
John 14:6
3/ Paul writing to the Romans said,
“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” Romans 3:23,24.
Sinning is falling short of what God wants for you life. Sin separates us from God.
4/ Isaiah telling us,
“All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away.”
Isaiah 64:6
5/ John noting,
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.”
1 John 1:9,10.
6/ Paul make it clear salvation is not something we can work for. Paul writing to the Ephesians stating,
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Ephesians 2:8,9
7/ Ultimately salvation is an act of faith, Hebrews stating,
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him”
Hebrews 11:6
Faith defined as,
“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”
Hebrews 11:1
What do you believe?
Think about it.
“The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace; the sinful mind is hostile to God. It does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so.
Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God....
The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.”
Romans 8:6-8,16
Over the years I’ve been asked how we know we are going to heaven. This is the answer I give.
We know, if we are children of God. We know if we have truly given our lives over to God. Our relationship to God is between Him and us. It is a personal thing. No one can truly judge if you are a Christian or not. If you have given your heart and life to God, only you can know that.
Paul states,
“The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.”
Romans 8:16
Over the years, I have had people say to me “such and such a person can’t possibly be saved because he or she is this or that.” When my wife was a librarian at the church we attended at the time, I even had one person, who didn’t know I was my wife’s husband say to me “she can’t possibly be saved because she reads Star Trek, and she actually recommended reading the Tales of Narnia.”
I simply laughed the incident off. I hadn’t the nerve to tell her who I was, and that one of our pastors had just bought the Narnia series for his children.
On other occasion, I was talking with a group of people, most of whom I knew quite well, at a conference. Someone asked how my illness was doing ( have Bi-polar effective disorder).
I told the person, that the meds were starting to keep things in check. Proof being, I was at the Conference. Immediately, someone else standing in the group whom I didn’t know said, very seriously, “How can you be saved and have such an illness. Mental illness is demon possession. .”
I appreciate prayer, at any time, but I was floored that anyone could doubt my salvation. I’ve had no doubt that Christ has been my Saviour, since I was nineteen. I have seen God working within my life, and what He has done through me. As Paul stated,
“The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.”
Romans 8:16 (NIV)
Sometimes, I truly believe that some people in the church are a hindrance to someone’s salvation.
My point in all of this, is to say, only you know for sure if you are saved. It is between you and God.
For me this is what I believe, and most Christians believe is the way to heaven.
The Way to Heaven
1/ “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.”
John 3:16,17.
2 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
John 14:6
3/ Paul writing to the Romans said,
“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” Romans 3:23,24.
Sinning is falling short of what God wants for you life. Sin separates us from God.
4/ Isaiah telling us,
“All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away.”
Isaiah 64:6
5/ John noting,
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.”
1 John 1:9,10.
6/ Paul make it clear salvation is not something we can work for. Paul writing to the Ephesians stating,
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Ephesians 2:8,9
7/ Ultimately salvation is an act of faith, Hebrews stating,
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him”
Hebrews 11:6
Faith defined as,
“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”
Hebrews 11:1
What do you believe?
Think about it.
Monday, 8 September 2014
The Devil can cite Scripture for his purpose
The Devil
“The devil can cite Scripture for his purpose.”
William Shakespeare
William Shakespeare was right. The devil can cite Scripture. As can charlatans demons and others.
Matthew records.
"When he arrived at the other side in the region of the Gadarenes, two demon-possessed men coming from the tombs met him. They were so violent that no one could pass that way.
“What do you want with us, Son of God?” they shouted. “Have you come here to torture us before the appointed time?”
Some distance from them a large herd of pigs was feeding.
The demons begged Jesus, “If you drive us out, send us into the herd of pigs.”
He said to them, “Go!” So they came out and went into the pigs, and the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and died in the water.”
Matthew 8:28-32.
Here the demons recognized who Jesus was and that he would one day at least judge them.
We Christians are a trusting lot. We tend to take people at face value. But we need to be careful to whom we listen to.
There are many evangelist and pastors out there that talk a good talk. They make what they say sound good but are really not from God.
Jesus said,
“Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’”
Matthew 7:22,23.
We need to be very careful as to whom we listen to and give our money to. We need to hold all preachers, teachers and evangelist to account.
We need to ask them for an accounting as to where the money you sent them is being spent.
More importantly however is what they are saying. We need to hold anyone who is preaching from the scriptures to the highest standards.
I believe that there are men and women who claim to be of God, out there that are lining their own pockets.
That what they are teaching revolves around money.
All ministries need money and for the most part all spend that money wisely especially those who are associated with a major church or denomination.
Still there are some that hide behind the media and misquote the scriptures for their own ends. That is why we always need to be vigilant.
We need check the scriptures all preachers, pastors and evangelist are teaching and see that they are in context.
If there is even a hint of a mistake in interpretation then we need to ask questions of the person who’s saying it.
If that answer is not in keeping with the scriptures then we need to stop supporting and listening to them.
Paul states,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?
God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.”
1 Corinthians 5:12,13.
We as Christians need to police ourselves. We need to hold all teachers and preachers of the word to account.
To do so we need to study the word of God for ourselves and educate ourselves the best way we can.
Think about it.
“The devil can cite Scripture for his purpose.”
William Shakespeare
William Shakespeare was right. The devil can cite Scripture. As can charlatans demons and others.
Matthew records.
"When he arrived at the other side in the region of the Gadarenes, two demon-possessed men coming from the tombs met him. They were so violent that no one could pass that way.
“What do you want with us, Son of God?” they shouted. “Have you come here to torture us before the appointed time?”
Some distance from them a large herd of pigs was feeding.
The demons begged Jesus, “If you drive us out, send us into the herd of pigs.”
He said to them, “Go!” So they came out and went into the pigs, and the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and died in the water.”
Matthew 8:28-32.
Here the demons recognized who Jesus was and that he would one day at least judge them.
We Christians are a trusting lot. We tend to take people at face value. But we need to be careful to whom we listen to.
There are many evangelist and pastors out there that talk a good talk. They make what they say sound good but are really not from God.
Jesus said,
“Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’”
Matthew 7:22,23.
We need to be very careful as to whom we listen to and give our money to. We need to hold all preachers, teachers and evangelist to account.
We need to ask them for an accounting as to where the money you sent them is being spent.
More importantly however is what they are saying. We need to hold anyone who is preaching from the scriptures to the highest standards.
I believe that there are men and women who claim to be of God, out there that are lining their own pockets.
That what they are teaching revolves around money.
All ministries need money and for the most part all spend that money wisely especially those who are associated with a major church or denomination.
Still there are some that hide behind the media and misquote the scriptures for their own ends. That is why we always need to be vigilant.
We need check the scriptures all preachers, pastors and evangelist are teaching and see that they are in context.
If there is even a hint of a mistake in interpretation then we need to ask questions of the person who’s saying it.
If that answer is not in keeping with the scriptures then we need to stop supporting and listening to them.
Paul states,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?
God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked man from among you.”
1 Corinthians 5:12,13.
We as Christians need to police ourselves. We need to hold all teachers and preachers of the word to account.
To do so we need to study the word of God for ourselves and educate ourselves the best way we can.
Think about it.
Sunday, 7 September 2014
Be prepared
“And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise
made by God to our fathers.
“To this promise our twelve tribes, earnestly serving God night and day, hope to attain.
For this hope’s sake, King Agrippa, I am accused by the Jews.
“Why should it be thought incredible by you
that God raises the dead?...
“Therefore, King Agrippa,
I was not disobedient to the heavenly realm,
“but declared first to those in Damascus and in Jerusalem,
and throughout all the region of Judea, and them to the Gentiles,
that they would repent, turn to God,
and do works befitting repentance.
When he had said these things the king stood up as well as the governor and Bernice
and those who sat with them.
and when they had gone aside, they talked among themselves, saying,
“This man is doing nothing deserving of death or chains.”
Acts 26:6-8,19-21,30,31Paul was prepared. Paul had studied the Word of God and was able to give a good account of himself.
I hear, many in the church say “don’t worry about what you are going to say, God will put the words in your mouth.” That maybe true, but we need to give a good account of ourselves.
Paul when writing to Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:15 states this:
“Do your best to present yourself to God
as one approved,
a workman who does not need to be ashamed
and who correctly handles the Word of truth.”
Christians, both leaders and laity, constantly misuse Scripture. Sometimes, it is out of deception. Most times, I believe it is our lack of understanding.It is imperative, that we study the Word of God to understand, what it means and how to use it.
Paul here, uses the Word of God very effectively. He is standing before both a Roman, who doesn’t have a complete understanding of Scripture and King Agrippa, who knew the Word.
He lays down his argument in a way that both understood. The result, was they pronounced him innocent.
We need to be like Paul, to study the Word of God, and know it in context. We should also do our best to look at a bit of the history around the Scriptures, which will also give us a bit more insight.
Something to think about
You can use Scripture to produce almost any scenario you want. When taken out of context, anything can be made to sound right. The only way, we can be certain that we are getting the right message out there is to study the Word of God.
The words of Paul to Timothy are just as important to us in this century:
“Do your best to present yourself to God
as one approved,
a workman who does not need to be ashamed
and who correctly handles the Word of truth.”
Think about it.
Saturday, 6 September 2014
I have nothing certain to write to my lord concerning him
“I have nothing certain to write to my lord concerning him.”
“I have nothing certain to write to my lord concerning him.
Therefore I have brought him out before you, and especially before you, King Agrippa,
so that after the examination has taken place I may have something to write.“For it seems to me unreasonable to send a prisoner and not to specify the charges against him.”
Acts 25:26,27
Porcius Festus had a problem. He couldn’t find anything that the apostle Paul had done wrong, and Paul had appealed to Caesar. From what Festus says here he seemed like a fair man in an awkward spot.
That’s how all government officials should be, when people accuse a Christian of something. We must not give those who are against us a chance to turn the civil authority against us.
We must expect to be taken before councils, judges and various civil authorities, Jesus said this in Matthew 10:17,18:
“But beware of men, for they will deliver you up to councils and scourge you in their synagogues. “You will be brought before governors and kings for My sake, a testimony to them and to the Gentiles.”
In the verse prior to that in Matthew 10:16 he states:
“Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and as harmless as doves."
We must be wise, when talking to those who are to hold judgement over us. We must chose our words carefully and listen for God’s leading. We can’t go in there shouting and screaming, “I have Rights.”
There is a reason, we will be brought before governors and kings. Listen to what Jesus said in Matthew 10:19
“You will be brought before governors and kings for My sake, a testimony to them and to the Gentiles.”
It is for Jesus’ sake, we will be brought before the civil authorities to give testimony. If we give that testimony in a non judgemental, non threatening way then we have no complaint against us.
The men that brought Paul before the Roman Governor had a political agenda. They seen him as a threat to what they believed, and wanted a civil court to settle their problem.
It happens today around the world. Even in the United States. Atheist and others want Christian symbols taken out of public places. Some would if they could go as far as trying to silencing Christians in the west.
Sadly today I think also there is within the Christian community people who have a political agenda.
They are objecting to laws passed to protect minority groups that they morally oppose.
They are imposing on a secular society, Christian values. Values that an unsaved person does not understand or feels they should have to obey.
Paul writes,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?”
1 Corinthians 12:5
As long as our civil rights, our rights to practice our faith and evangelise is not restricted we should not oppose the government.
We are told by Paul in his letter to the Romans,
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.
On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
Romans 12:18-21
Jesus makes things clear,
“Do not judge, or you too will be judged.
For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
Matthew 7:1,2.
If we as Christians are doing what Paul said and Christ commanded then we should have no fear when we are brought before the courts. Those who brought us before the court should have the same problem Festus had, nothing to charge us with.
think about it.
“I have nothing certain to write to my lord concerning him.
Therefore I have brought him out before you, and especially before you, King Agrippa,
so that after the examination has taken place I may have something to write.“For it seems to me unreasonable to send a prisoner and not to specify the charges against him.”
Acts 25:26,27
Porcius Festus had a problem. He couldn’t find anything that the apostle Paul had done wrong, and Paul had appealed to Caesar. From what Festus says here he seemed like a fair man in an awkward spot.
That’s how all government officials should be, when people accuse a Christian of something. We must not give those who are against us a chance to turn the civil authority against us.
We must expect to be taken before councils, judges and various civil authorities, Jesus said this in Matthew 10:17,18:
“But beware of men, for they will deliver you up to councils and scourge you in their synagogues. “You will be brought before governors and kings for My sake, a testimony to them and to the Gentiles.”
In the verse prior to that in Matthew 10:16 he states:
“Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and as harmless as doves."
We must be wise, when talking to those who are to hold judgement over us. We must chose our words carefully and listen for God’s leading. We can’t go in there shouting and screaming, “I have Rights.”
There is a reason, we will be brought before governors and kings. Listen to what Jesus said in Matthew 10:19
“You will be brought before governors and kings for My sake, a testimony to them and to the Gentiles.”
It is for Jesus’ sake, we will be brought before the civil authorities to give testimony. If we give that testimony in a non judgemental, non threatening way then we have no complaint against us.
The men that brought Paul before the Roman Governor had a political agenda. They seen him as a threat to what they believed, and wanted a civil court to settle their problem.
It happens today around the world. Even in the United States. Atheist and others want Christian symbols taken out of public places. Some would if they could go as far as trying to silencing Christians in the west.
Sadly today I think also there is within the Christian community people who have a political agenda.
They are objecting to laws passed to protect minority groups that they morally oppose.
They are imposing on a secular society, Christian values. Values that an unsaved person does not understand or feels they should have to obey.
Paul writes,
“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?”
1 Corinthians 12:5
As long as our civil rights, our rights to practice our faith and evangelise is not restricted we should not oppose the government.
We are told by Paul in his letter to the Romans,
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.
On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
Romans 12:18-21
Jesus makes things clear,
“Do not judge, or you too will be judged.
For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
Matthew 7:1,2.
If we as Christians are doing what Paul said and Christ commanded then we should have no fear when we are brought before the courts. Those who brought us before the court should have the same problem Festus had, nothing to charge us with.
think about it.
Friday, 5 September 2014
Hope
Hope in Christ
“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.
Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.
And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.”
Romans 5:1-6
This is what it’s all about for a Christian, hope in Christ. We are justified by our faith in Christ.
We have gained access to the very throne room of the creator of the universe to the God himself.
We as Christians have a personal relationship with God. It is what allows us to go through all kinds of suffering and trials be they minor or major. And many Christians in the world today need God’s help to simply live from day to day.
“Today as I write this there are approximately 2.2million Christians on the earth making it the largest religion in the world.
Last November, German Chancellor Angela Merkel declared that Christianity is the most persecuted religion in the world.
Rupert Short in a research report for Civitas UK states,
"Christians are targeted more than any other body of believers." Short is the author of the recently published Christianophobia: A Faith Under Attack. He is concerned that "200 million Christians (10 percent of the global total) are socially disadvantaged, harassed or actively oppressed for their beliefs."
It’s not a new thing it’s been happening from the earliest days of Christianity. The disciples were persecuted, Paul was stoned and left for dead. Christians through the centuries have had times when persecution has been high.
That however has not stopped the Christians.
Acts chapter five gives an example. They, apostles had been told by the religious of their day not to preach in the name of Jesus. They continued to do so.
It infuriated the leaders who wanted to put them to death. However cooler heads took over the author of Acts recording
“But a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law, who was honored by all the people, stood up in the Sanhedrin and ordered that the men be put outside for a little while.
Then he addressed them: “Men of Israel, consider carefully what you intend to do to these men....
Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail.
But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.”
Acts 5:34,35,38,39.
C. S. Lewis made an interesting statement,
“Christianity, if false, is of no importance, and if true, of infinite importance. The only thing it cannot be is moderately important.”
C. S. Lewis.
If Christianity is wrong those who oppose it have nothing to fear. However if it is to quote a phrase “the real deal” they have everything to fear because if is, those who oppose Christianity are fighting against God.
I believe all who oppose Jesus have a lot to fear especially those who persecute us. Even if they are not brought to justice in this life they will one day stand before a God that will judge them justly for their actions.
As Christians we cannot give up because of persecution. Nor will we give up hope.
As Christians we have the most important anyone could have for the world. A message directly from God. Spoken by Jesus himself,
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.”
John 3:16,17
This is a message of hope for all mankind.
Dear reader do you have a hope that when you leave this earth you will inherit eternal life?
Think about it.
“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.
Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.
And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.”
Romans 5:1-6
This is what it’s all about for a Christian, hope in Christ. We are justified by our faith in Christ.
We have gained access to the very throne room of the creator of the universe to the God himself.
We as Christians have a personal relationship with God. It is what allows us to go through all kinds of suffering and trials be they minor or major. And many Christians in the world today need God’s help to simply live from day to day.
“Today as I write this there are approximately 2.2million Christians on the earth making it the largest religion in the world.
Last November, German Chancellor Angela Merkel declared that Christianity is the most persecuted religion in the world.
Rupert Short in a research report for Civitas UK states,
"Christians are targeted more than any other body of believers." Short is the author of the recently published Christianophobia: A Faith Under Attack. He is concerned that "200 million Christians (10 percent of the global total) are socially disadvantaged, harassed or actively oppressed for their beliefs."
It’s not a new thing it’s been happening from the earliest days of Christianity. The disciples were persecuted, Paul was stoned and left for dead. Christians through the centuries have had times when persecution has been high.
That however has not stopped the Christians.
Acts chapter five gives an example. They, apostles had been told by the religious of their day not to preach in the name of Jesus. They continued to do so.
It infuriated the leaders who wanted to put them to death. However cooler heads took over the author of Acts recording
“But a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law, who was honored by all the people, stood up in the Sanhedrin and ordered that the men be put outside for a little while.
Then he addressed them: “Men of Israel, consider carefully what you intend to do to these men....
Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail.
But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.”
Acts 5:34,35,38,39.
C. S. Lewis made an interesting statement,
“Christianity, if false, is of no importance, and if true, of infinite importance. The only thing it cannot be is moderately important.”
C. S. Lewis.
If Christianity is wrong those who oppose it have nothing to fear. However if it is to quote a phrase “the real deal” they have everything to fear because if is, those who oppose Christianity are fighting against God.
I believe all who oppose Jesus have a lot to fear especially those who persecute us. Even if they are not brought to justice in this life they will one day stand before a God that will judge them justly for their actions.
As Christians we cannot give up because of persecution. Nor will we give up hope.
As Christians we have the most important anyone could have for the world. A message directly from God. Spoken by Jesus himself,
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.”
John 3:16,17
This is a message of hope for all mankind.
Dear reader do you have a hope that when you leave this earth you will inherit eternal life?
Think about it.
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