When I heard about the school shooting in Connecticut where elementary age children as well as teachers lost their lives, my heart was broken for the families of the children and teachers but also for the family of the shooter. I was thinking about good and evil and how do I really put together a God who is supreme and supremely good with such an act of evil.
This has been a question for the ages so I as glad today that I ran across this article by David Platt. He is a pastor in Birmingham, AL. What he says I already knew but was glad to see it said in a way that I never could.
Please take time to read his article.
Showing posts with label religion. Show all posts
Showing posts with label religion. Show all posts
Saturday, December 15, 2012
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
The World
John 7:7 The world cannot hate you, but it hates me because I testify about it that it's works are evil.
Jesus spoke these words to his brothers who were urging him to go to a feast in Jerusalem. They were actually making fun of him because they didn't believe he was anyone special.
As I read these words I thought of all the controversy over Dan Cathy and his comment on marriage. He did not say anything negative about same sex marriage. He didn't say gays would not be served or hired at his restaurants. He didn't say anyone was going to burn in hell. All he said was he believes the Bible's view on marriage.
Because of this declaration he is going to be denied licenses to do business in various cities. He is being vilified by people all over the country. He is being labeled a bigot and intolerant. The world hates him because he spoke truth from God's word.
The thing is, if we are about sharing the truth of God, the world will hate us, just as it hated Jesus. John the baptist was put in prison and beheaded because he called Herod out on his adultery.
Our response should not be to hate the world back, but to love the lost as Jesus did. Jesus died for ALL mankind. Jesus wept over the masses who were like sheep without a shepherd.
Jesus got angry but the anger he had was toward the religious, those who were harsh and legalistic and unable to love those "sinners" around them. While Jesus was building relationships with tax collectors and prostitutes and adulterers and healing those sick of body and of soul, the religious were plotting how to kill him.
As a Christ follower I need to be sure I love those Jesus loved and not be counted among those plotting to kill him.
Jesus spoke these words to his brothers who were urging him to go to a feast in Jerusalem. They were actually making fun of him because they didn't believe he was anyone special.
As I read these words I thought of all the controversy over Dan Cathy and his comment on marriage. He did not say anything negative about same sex marriage. He didn't say gays would not be served or hired at his restaurants. He didn't say anyone was going to burn in hell. All he said was he believes the Bible's view on marriage.
Because of this declaration he is going to be denied licenses to do business in various cities. He is being vilified by people all over the country. He is being labeled a bigot and intolerant. The world hates him because he spoke truth from God's word.
The thing is, if we are about sharing the truth of God, the world will hate us, just as it hated Jesus. John the baptist was put in prison and beheaded because he called Herod out on his adultery.
Our response should not be to hate the world back, but to love the lost as Jesus did. Jesus died for ALL mankind. Jesus wept over the masses who were like sheep without a shepherd.
Jesus got angry but the anger he had was toward the religious, those who were harsh and legalistic and unable to love those "sinners" around them. While Jesus was building relationships with tax collectors and prostitutes and adulterers and healing those sick of body and of soul, the religious were plotting how to kill him.
As a Christ follower I need to be sure I love those Jesus loved and not be counted among those plotting to kill him.
Friday, August 19, 2011
Ten Commandments
As I was reading the ten commandments in Exodus 20, I began to think about all the controversy that surrounds the public placement of these in schools and courthouses. And of course that leads to thinking about crosses and manger scenes and other religious symbols placed in public (as in taxpayer paid for) places.
I just don't understand why some people get so angry and speak so rudely about these issues. These are folks who claim to be followers of Jesus, who happened to say a lot about loving our enemies and nothing that I can find about fighting them or the government. Jesus, in fact, upped the ante by saying not only do not murder, but do not hurl anger and insults!
You'd almost think they think God needs a defender - as if He is not powerful enough to defend Himself. Or maybe they think if someone reads the list and sees that God said don't murder, steal or lie, with which they agree, then they will just naturally decided to submit to the other seven. Or that seeing a manger scene on the courthouse lawn will cause someone to fall in love with Jesus. It just doesn't happen that way.
The USA is not a Christian country and will not be changed by a list on a wall in a courthouse or school room or by a cross or manger scene in anyone's yard - public or private. Those who lead our government can not save us from disaster or heal us of our wrongs. Change happens when I speak to people one on one about Jesus, inviting them to church, loving them as Jesus does. Then Jesus does what only He can do...He changes individual hearts and lives through His grace and mercy.
I just don't understand why some people get so angry and speak so rudely about these issues. These are folks who claim to be followers of Jesus, who happened to say a lot about loving our enemies and nothing that I can find about fighting them or the government. Jesus, in fact, upped the ante by saying not only do not murder, but do not hurl anger and insults!
You'd almost think they think God needs a defender - as if He is not powerful enough to defend Himself. Or maybe they think if someone reads the list and sees that God said don't murder, steal or lie, with which they agree, then they will just naturally decided to submit to the other seven. Or that seeing a manger scene on the courthouse lawn will cause someone to fall in love with Jesus. It just doesn't happen that way.
The USA is not a Christian country and will not be changed by a list on a wall in a courthouse or school room or by a cross or manger scene in anyone's yard - public or private. Those who lead our government can not save us from disaster or heal us of our wrongs. Change happens when I speak to people one on one about Jesus, inviting them to church, loving them as Jesus does. Then Jesus does what only He can do...He changes individual hearts and lives through His grace and mercy.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Traditions
As I was reading in Galatians this morning, Paul is reminding the people of Galatia that works of the law do not save. Even Peter was admonished by Paul when he behaved one way with the Gentiles but another when the Jews showed up. Wanted to live up to THEIR traditions!
Sometimes when I read those things I have a tendency to think why didn't they get it? Especially the Jews. But then I thought about the 1400 - 1500 years of the law that they had lived under and how hard it would be to give up all that tradition. Even though they had been looking for the Messiah, they didn't want a Messiah that actually changed their view of God or life or their position in society.
How like the church in America today! How many churches bicker over music styles or leadership styles or English translations of the Bible. How hard it is for some churches not to do things "the way we've always done them" even as the numbers in attendance dwindle. How cloaked in "holy huddles" are some churches that new people are not even wanted. How many churches steadfastly refuse to step into the 21st century by using technology to reach the next generation.
There is nothing wrong with traditions; we need to know our roots. And there is no gospel to preach except Jesus Christ, crucified and raised from the dead. But if we hold to our irrelevant traditions at the expense of reaching a dying world with the love and saving grace of Jesus Christ, I do not believe we will hear "Well, done" when we stand before Him one day. Jesus turned the religious world on its head 2000 years ago and I see Him still working that way today.
Sometimes when I read those things I have a tendency to think why didn't they get it? Especially the Jews. But then I thought about the 1400 - 1500 years of the law that they had lived under and how hard it would be to give up all that tradition. Even though they had been looking for the Messiah, they didn't want a Messiah that actually changed their view of God or life or their position in society.
How like the church in America today! How many churches bicker over music styles or leadership styles or English translations of the Bible. How hard it is for some churches not to do things "the way we've always done them" even as the numbers in attendance dwindle. How cloaked in "holy huddles" are some churches that new people are not even wanted. How many churches steadfastly refuse to step into the 21st century by using technology to reach the next generation.
There is nothing wrong with traditions; we need to know our roots. And there is no gospel to preach except Jesus Christ, crucified and raised from the dead. But if we hold to our irrelevant traditions at the expense of reaching a dying world with the love and saving grace of Jesus Christ, I do not believe we will hear "Well, done" when we stand before Him one day. Jesus turned the religious world on its head 2000 years ago and I see Him still working that way today.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Day 2 - 21 Day Bible Reading Plan
John 2: "...(though the servants who had drawn the water knew)..." (v.9) This little aside is part of the story of the wedding feast at Cana where Jesus performed His first miracle by turning water into wine. The servants obeyed Jesus by filling the water jars, witnessed the miracle, and took the wine to the master of the feast who was astonished at the superior quality of the wine.
There is no indication that Jesus ever told any of the wedding party what He had done. But the servants knew, and His disciples. How often am I tempted to let pride take hold of me and say, "I did that; or I accomplished this." Too often I look for that human pat on the back or that swell of pride that comes from having people know what I did. But I need to remember Jesus' words later in John 15 when He said, "...apart from Me you can do nothing."
John 2 ends with "Jesus...did not entrust Himself to them...for He Himself knew what was in man." That is both comforting and sobering. Jesus knows my heart, my insides, the part I sometimes try to hide from the world - the pride, the resentment, the unforgiveness, that little lie, that desire, that "secret" sin. And yet, Jesus gave His life for me. Took ALL my sin and bore the wrath of God to fulfill love and justice. What a Savior!!
Mark 2: "And the scribes of the Pharisees...said, 'Why does He eat with tax collectors and sinners?'" (v.16) Jesus was making the established religious leaders angry because He associated with the "unclean" - those who were beyond hope in the eyes of those leaders.
Is my heart like that? It has been shown over and over again that the longer a person is in church, the less likely that person is to have friends who don't know Jesus. Am I willing to make friends with those who are outside the comfort zone of most who call themselves Christians? Do I really care that there are people around me who are dying and going to hell? Do I believe they are "too far gone" for God to do a miraculous work in their lives? Make my heart like Yours, Lord. Open my eyes to see the fields white for harvest. Take away any self righteousness, any self satisfaction, any comfort in my own position so that I can remember what it was like to live without You. Help me to remember my own journey toward hell until You rescued me so that I can always believe that no one is beyond Your ability to save.
There is no indication that Jesus ever told any of the wedding party what He had done. But the servants knew, and His disciples. How often am I tempted to let pride take hold of me and say, "I did that; or I accomplished this." Too often I look for that human pat on the back or that swell of pride that comes from having people know what I did. But I need to remember Jesus' words later in John 15 when He said, "...apart from Me you can do nothing."
John 2 ends with "Jesus...did not entrust Himself to them...for He Himself knew what was in man." That is both comforting and sobering. Jesus knows my heart, my insides, the part I sometimes try to hide from the world - the pride, the resentment, the unforgiveness, that little lie, that desire, that "secret" sin. And yet, Jesus gave His life for me. Took ALL my sin and bore the wrath of God to fulfill love and justice. What a Savior!!
Mark 2: "And the scribes of the Pharisees...said, 'Why does He eat with tax collectors and sinners?'" (v.16) Jesus was making the established religious leaders angry because He associated with the "unclean" - those who were beyond hope in the eyes of those leaders.
Is my heart like that? It has been shown over and over again that the longer a person is in church, the less likely that person is to have friends who don't know Jesus. Am I willing to make friends with those who are outside the comfort zone of most who call themselves Christians? Do I really care that there are people around me who are dying and going to hell? Do I believe they are "too far gone" for God to do a miraculous work in their lives? Make my heart like Yours, Lord. Open my eyes to see the fields white for harvest. Take away any self righteousness, any self satisfaction, any comfort in my own position so that I can remember what it was like to live without You. Help me to remember my own journey toward hell until You rescued me so that I can always believe that no one is beyond Your ability to save.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Veiled Face
When Moses came down from the mountain where he had been receiving the law from God, his face glowed with the reflected glory of God. So much so that Moses put a veil over his face.
Paul, in 2 Corinthians 3:12-18, equates that veil to hardness of heart. Only Christ can take the veil away and He does that "when one turns to the Lord" (vs 16).
Too many times I have forgotten that Jesus is the only one who can lift the veil and change the heart of stone to a heart of flesh. It is easy to get discouraged when friends and family continually reject efforts to speak Jesus and life into them. I have to be reminded that it's not my words but Holy Spirit who will initiate the change in someone. So I pray that He would remove the veil so they might see and understand. But even then they have to say yes to the Holy Spirit as He draws them to Jesus.
Some of my friends are like the Jews of Paul's day - very religious. I can not judge their hearts because only Jesus knows if they belong to Him. But I see and hear the things they say and do and wonder what changes Jesus is making in their lives and whether the veil has actually been removed.
Paul, in 2 Corinthians 3:12-18, equates that veil to hardness of heart. Only Christ can take the veil away and He does that "when one turns to the Lord" (vs 16).
Too many times I have forgotten that Jesus is the only one who can lift the veil and change the heart of stone to a heart of flesh. It is easy to get discouraged when friends and family continually reject efforts to speak Jesus and life into them. I have to be reminded that it's not my words but Holy Spirit who will initiate the change in someone. So I pray that He would remove the veil so they might see and understand. But even then they have to say yes to the Holy Spirit as He draws them to Jesus.
Some of my friends are like the Jews of Paul's day - very religious. I can not judge their hearts because only Jesus knows if they belong to Him. But I see and hear the things they say and do and wonder what changes Jesus is making in their lives and whether the veil has actually been removed.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Does the Church Have It Backwards?
As I was reading Paul's first letter to the Corinthians this morning, I came to 5:9-13. I really began to think about the Church and how screwed up things seem.
Paul is admonishing the Church to stay away from the sexually immoral. But he makes it clear "...not at all meaning the sexually immoral of this world, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters, since then you would need to go out of the world." He is talking about staying away from those INSIDE the Church who are living lives characterized by sin.
My small view and experience of church world seems to show that rather than staying away from one inside the church who has a life characterized by sin, the Church has pretty much taken itself out of the world to isolate and insulate itself from those "bad people" out there becoming a "holy huddle" of like minded people who are ineffective in reaching the world for Christ.
Then again, maybe there is also such an attitude of perfection expected in the Church that the one who struggles with sin tries so hard to keep it hidden that the Church doesn't even know about it. Or if it does, ignores it; or gossips about it. In 2 Corinthians 2:6-9 and Galatians 6:1, Paul tells us the purpose of confrontation is restoration and obedience.
Since I am the Church, what are my personal attitudes about those outside and inside the Church? What am I doing to help fellow believers, and to have them help me, confront sin in each of our lives? And what am I doing to reach those who are outside the influence of the Gospel? Do I stay away from them thinking somehow that I will be "tarnished" if I am friends with them or do I accept them as lost and in need of Jesus?
Paul is admonishing the Church to stay away from the sexually immoral. But he makes it clear "...not at all meaning the sexually immoral of this world, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters, since then you would need to go out of the world." He is talking about staying away from those INSIDE the Church who are living lives characterized by sin.
My small view and experience of church world seems to show that rather than staying away from one inside the church who has a life characterized by sin, the Church has pretty much taken itself out of the world to isolate and insulate itself from those "bad people" out there becoming a "holy huddle" of like minded people who are ineffective in reaching the world for Christ.
Then again, maybe there is also such an attitude of perfection expected in the Church that the one who struggles with sin tries so hard to keep it hidden that the Church doesn't even know about it. Or if it does, ignores it; or gossips about it. In 2 Corinthians 2:6-9 and Galatians 6:1, Paul tells us the purpose of confrontation is restoration and obedience.
Since I am the Church, what are my personal attitudes about those outside and inside the Church? What am I doing to help fellow believers, and to have them help me, confront sin in each of our lives? And what am I doing to reach those who are outside the influence of the Gospel? Do I stay away from them thinking somehow that I will be "tarnished" if I am friends with them or do I accept them as lost and in need of Jesus?
Monday, January 10, 2011
Make War
Perry started a new series yesterday at NewSpring called Make War based on the story of David and Goliath found in 1 Samuel 17. He had 4 points about what God has saved us from. Unfortunately I can only remember point 1 - the power of sin; point 2 - a meaningless life; and point 4 - religion. Maybe point 3 will come to me as I type. My notes are still in the car and I'm not going out in the snow to get them.
And of course these are the 3 points that really spoke to me. I have read any number of times various passages in the Bible that tell Christ followers sin is defeated but that has not always been a reality in my life. However, I do have victory now - not at some unforeseen time in the future or when I get to heaven. Jesus defeated sin and death and the Holy Spirit gives me the same power that God used to raise Jesus from the dead. But I do have choices to make. God provides a way out - always - when I am tempted but am I will to take the way out? Or do I want to wallow in my sin and not experience the victory that is mine?
In Ecclesiastes Solomon talks about the meaningless life. He also comes to the conclusion that God is of utmost priority. We are to provide for our families and encourage our children and enjoy the blessings God has given us but when those things become the focus of our life rather than the worship of God, life becomes meaningless. We will not be judged on how much money we make or how new our car is or how big our house is or what college we attended or what football team we pull for but for the way we have touched the lives of those around us.
Ah...religion. Paul was VERY religious but was not a Christ follower. It was not until he surrendered his life to Christ by confessing Jesus is Lord and believing God raised Him from the dead that he learned that religion is not worth a hill of beans. In fact the Greek word skubalon used by Paul and translated as rubbish in this passage actually means the excrement of animals or dung. So religion counts for nothing but a personal relationship with the living Lord Jesus counts for everything.
Sunday was a great day. I am so excited about this series and can't wait to hear what Perry will say over the next 5 weeks.
And of course these are the 3 points that really spoke to me. I have read any number of times various passages in the Bible that tell Christ followers sin is defeated but that has not always been a reality in my life. However, I do have victory now - not at some unforeseen time in the future or when I get to heaven. Jesus defeated sin and death and the Holy Spirit gives me the same power that God used to raise Jesus from the dead. But I do have choices to make. God provides a way out - always - when I am tempted but am I will to take the way out? Or do I want to wallow in my sin and not experience the victory that is mine?
In Ecclesiastes Solomon talks about the meaningless life. He also comes to the conclusion that God is of utmost priority. We are to provide for our families and encourage our children and enjoy the blessings God has given us but when those things become the focus of our life rather than the worship of God, life becomes meaningless. We will not be judged on how much money we make or how new our car is or how big our house is or what college we attended or what football team we pull for but for the way we have touched the lives of those around us.
Ah...religion. Paul was VERY religious but was not a Christ follower. It was not until he surrendered his life to Christ by confessing Jesus is Lord and believing God raised Him from the dead that he learned that religion is not worth a hill of beans. In fact the Greek word skubalon used by Paul and translated as rubbish in this passage actually means the excrement of animals or dung. So religion counts for nothing but a personal relationship with the living Lord Jesus counts for everything.
Sunday was a great day. I am so excited about this series and can't wait to hear what Perry will say over the next 5 weeks.
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Great Opportunities
Last week I had the opportunity to do a couple of things. On Wednesday I went to the office of one of the ladies where I work to seek information. The office manager was in this office and the conversation turned to communion and baptism and salvation.
I was asked if a person had to be baptized by immersion to take communion at NewSpring. I said no you just have to be able, in your heart, to affirm that you have asked Jesus into your heart and you know that you have a personal relationship with Him. I continued to say that baptism does not save you (to the person who always says at least her children are Christian because they have been baptized and go to a Christian school.) She seemed to be shaken by what I said but I left her in the able hands of the manager.
Later that day a man on staff at Miracle Hill Ministries in Spartanburg was in the office to speak to one of the men. I happened to walk to the copier while they were together and Dan called me into his office to meet Jim. After talking to him and reading the book he gave me, I am absolutely convinced this is the place God wants me to serve. I don't know how God will use me but I am so excited to see what's going to happen.
Jim said they need mentors and Bible study leaders and people to preach at chapel services. I said I'm not a preacher but Dan piped up and said I heard you preaching earlier to those women [in the office]. I laughed and said that I could talk easily about my faith one on one or in small groups but preach - I don't think so.
So I had 2, count them TWO, great opportunities last week. I got to share the Gospel with a co-worker who believes in works based religion and I got to talk to Miracle Hill about opportunities of service. I will be calling Jim after I quit work and will go over to the Rescue Mission, take a tour and have lunch with the residents and staff. Then we will see where I might fit in.
God is already working in my retirement. Woo Hoo!!
I was asked if a person had to be baptized by immersion to take communion at NewSpring. I said no you just have to be able, in your heart, to affirm that you have asked Jesus into your heart and you know that you have a personal relationship with Him. I continued to say that baptism does not save you (to the person who always says at least her children are Christian because they have been baptized and go to a Christian school.) She seemed to be shaken by what I said but I left her in the able hands of the manager.
Later that day a man on staff at Miracle Hill Ministries in Spartanburg was in the office to speak to one of the men. I happened to walk to the copier while they were together and Dan called me into his office to meet Jim. After talking to him and reading the book he gave me, I am absolutely convinced this is the place God wants me to serve. I don't know how God will use me but I am so excited to see what's going to happen.
Jim said they need mentors and Bible study leaders and people to preach at chapel services. I said I'm not a preacher but Dan piped up and said I heard you preaching earlier to those women [in the office]. I laughed and said that I could talk easily about my faith one on one or in small groups but preach - I don't think so.
So I had 2, count them TWO, great opportunities last week. I got to share the Gospel with a co-worker who believes in works based religion and I got to talk to Miracle Hill about opportunities of service. I will be calling Jim after I quit work and will go over to the Rescue Mission, take a tour and have lunch with the residents and staff. Then we will see where I might fit in.
God is already working in my retirement. Woo Hoo!!
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Strangers in the World
I often wonder why people - Christians - get upset and bent out of shape when the world doesn't agree with the Christian agenda. In the opening verse of 1 Peter, God's elect are called strangers in the world. Jesus said those "in the world" would hate believers. John the apostle said we should not be surprised that the world hates us.
So if someone thinks I am weak (Christianity is just a crutch) or narrow minded (only one way to heaven & God) or a prude (no sex outside of marriage) or a bigot (homosexuality is a sin) or stupid for not trying to "gain the world" (he who dies with the most toys wins), why would I get angry at them? They are just LOST! Totally lost without Jesus. How can I engage them so they have a desire to see what Jesus is all about? How can I love them rather than call them names in return?
One of Perry's complaints about the Church is we're too often more about what we're against than what we are for. If we are vocally against everyone who hates us because of Jesus, how can we be salt and light in the world. Jesus even said we should rejoice at persecution. Now when was the last time THAT occurred in the public arena?
So if someone thinks I am weak (Christianity is just a crutch) or narrow minded (only one way to heaven & God) or a prude (no sex outside of marriage) or a bigot (homosexuality is a sin) or stupid for not trying to "gain the world" (he who dies with the most toys wins), why would I get angry at them? They are just LOST! Totally lost without Jesus. How can I engage them so they have a desire to see what Jesus is all about? How can I love them rather than call them names in return?
One of Perry's complaints about the Church is we're too often more about what we're against than what we are for. If we are vocally against everyone who hates us because of Jesus, how can we be salt and light in the world. Jesus even said we should rejoice at persecution. Now when was the last time THAT occurred in the public arena?
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Lots of Churches
This morning I went to church early to help prepare for communion. Because the Fuse guys who help with load in and production setup stayed to help with communion, we were done by 7:40 rather than 8:30 as had been expected. I didn't have enough time to go back home and come back again and too much time to sit around and wait. So I did the next best thing...drove through downtown Greenville and out Anderson Rd (Hwy 81) and ended up in Anderson in time for the 9:15 service. (I really miss going to Anderson!)
As I was riding down the road I saw lots of churches along the way. They were mostly Baptist churches of some flavor but they were large and small, some with old buildings, some new, some "expanded". The expanded ones often have 2 fronts with columns - a small building with a flat top where the steeple used to be and the new, larger, taller sanctuary that now sports the steeple.
As I looked at all these churches, I wondered what God is up to in their midst. Do they recognize what He is doing? Were they expecting God to show up in their services today? I wondered what would happen if I went in in my jeans and flip flops.
But of course the question returns to me...do I expect to meet God each time I go to church? What do I do to prepare myself to meet Him? And then do I expect to see Him all throughout the week in the pages of Scripture, working around me in the office, in my family, in my finances, in my thoughts, in my attitudes? Because I am His child, He is always there! He NEVER leaves ME but I often leave Him.
And then, of course, that tied right in to Perry's sermon. What thing do I lack? What am I holding back from God?
As I was riding down the road I saw lots of churches along the way. They were mostly Baptist churches of some flavor but they were large and small, some with old buildings, some new, some "expanded". The expanded ones often have 2 fronts with columns - a small building with a flat top where the steeple used to be and the new, larger, taller sanctuary that now sports the steeple.
As I looked at all these churches, I wondered what God is up to in their midst. Do they recognize what He is doing? Were they expecting God to show up in their services today? I wondered what would happen if I went in in my jeans and flip flops.
But of course the question returns to me...do I expect to meet God each time I go to church? What do I do to prepare myself to meet Him? And then do I expect to see Him all throughout the week in the pages of Scripture, working around me in the office, in my family, in my finances, in my thoughts, in my attitudes? Because I am His child, He is always there! He NEVER leaves ME but I often leave Him.
And then, of course, that tied right in to Perry's sermon. What thing do I lack? What am I holding back from God?
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Controversy
Yesterday, I read Todd Rhodes blog about an evangelical church plant in Utah that had it's funding taken away because they allow attendees to drink beer (2's the limit) at the Applebee's style restaurant/bar (see the comment section for this information from the church planter.)
Then I read today's devotion from NewSpring. Luke 7:36-47 has the story of a "sinner", a woman, who comes into the Pharisee's house and washes His feet with her tears, dries them with her hair and anoints them with perfume. And the Pharisee complains.
Seems to me to be very similar to the controversy with the guy in Utah. Just a few verses earlier, Jesus seems to be saying there was a "damned if you do/damned if you don't" mentality among the religious leaders. Seems to me some things NEVER change!
Then I read today's devotion from NewSpring. Luke 7:36-47 has the story of a "sinner", a woman, who comes into the Pharisee's house and washes His feet with her tears, dries them with her hair and anoints them with perfume. And the Pharisee complains.
Seems to me to be very similar to the controversy with the guy in Utah. Just a few verses earlier, Jesus seems to be saying there was a "damned if you do/damned if you don't" mentality among the religious leaders. Seems to me some things NEVER change!
Monday, March 8, 2010
I Will Be Safe
As I was reading in Deuteronomy, I came across this passage. Moses has been telling the Israelites how God will bless them if they obey God and how He will curse them if they turn aside to idols.
In the Church many of us think we are safe because we come to church and are good people but then go our own way. We may not think we are turning aside to idols but we have idols just the same.
In Deuteronomy the idols are of wood and stone. Our idols today are not figurines made in the shape of people or birds or animals but cars and TVs and computers. Sometimes our idols are people. One of the most popular TV shows is called American Idol and people dream of being that one person everyone idolizes and being rich and famous! Many people in America think that our President is our savior. Not just those who believe in Obama but those who will push for his replacement in the next election.
We think it is okay to just do our thing and God will be pleased. I'm better than that guy over there so I am safe. Perry said yesterday that money is the #1 competitor for the heart of man. If I have idols in my life, if my money is more important than anything else, then maybe, just maybe I am NOT safe.
The only real safety comes from knowing Jesus as Lord and Savior, having invited Him into my heart and surrendering my will and my way to Him. If I have idols floating around, things I would not give up or let go of, maybe I don't know Jesus at all. And that is definitely not safe!
In the Church many of us think we are safe because we come to church and are good people but then go our own way. We may not think we are turning aside to idols but we have idols just the same.
In Deuteronomy the idols are of wood and stone. Our idols today are not figurines made in the shape of people or birds or animals but cars and TVs and computers. Sometimes our idols are people. One of the most popular TV shows is called American Idol and people dream of being that one person everyone idolizes and being rich and famous! Many people in America think that our President is our savior. Not just those who believe in Obama but those who will push for his replacement in the next election.
We think it is okay to just do our thing and God will be pleased. I'm better than that guy over there so I am safe. Perry said yesterday that money is the #1 competitor for the heart of man. If I have idols in my life, if my money is more important than anything else, then maybe, just maybe I am NOT safe.
The only real safety comes from knowing Jesus as Lord and Savior, having invited Him into my heart and surrendering my will and my way to Him. If I have idols floating around, things I would not give up or let go of, maybe I don't know Jesus at all. And that is definitely not safe!
Thursday, February 11, 2010
An Uncaring God
As I was driving home from work today, I heard a book review on NPR. A Jewish man (I assume) named Rosenblatt has written a book called Making Toast. Seems his daughter, a young doctor - married with 3 small children - was running on her treadmill at home and died from a very rare heart problem.
The mom and dad moved in with the son-in-law to help take care of the kids and have been there ever since. This is the dad/grandfather's memoir of his daughter and his journey of grief.
I found it extremely sad as he spoke about his belief in a god who set us spinning and then stepped back and actually cares nothing about us. A god who would say I did the best I could but I couldn't really do anything to prevent your daughter's death. That echo's the sentiments of a book called When Bad Things Happen to Good People by another Jewish author.
What kind of god is that impotent? Maybe it makes him feel better to think god is impotent that to think about God who is all powerful and certainly could have done something but didn't. His statements of unfairness are repeated often by those who don't know the living God, the one true God, Creator of heaven and earth. The God who loves us so much that His Son died a cruel death that we might be free to live an abundant life.
That does not mean we don't grieve or hurt or question or get angry but it does mean that we do not grieve as those that have no hope. In listening to this man that is what I felt - he has no hope. His eternity for her is believing her spirit is nearby. It's so very, very sad.
The mom and dad moved in with the son-in-law to help take care of the kids and have been there ever since. This is the dad/grandfather's memoir of his daughter and his journey of grief.
I found it extremely sad as he spoke about his belief in a god who set us spinning and then stepped back and actually cares nothing about us. A god who would say I did the best I could but I couldn't really do anything to prevent your daughter's death. That echo's the sentiments of a book called When Bad Things Happen to Good People by another Jewish author.
What kind of god is that impotent? Maybe it makes him feel better to think god is impotent that to think about God who is all powerful and certainly could have done something but didn't. His statements of unfairness are repeated often by those who don't know the living God, the one true God, Creator of heaven and earth. The God who loves us so much that His Son died a cruel death that we might be free to live an abundant life.
That does not mean we don't grieve or hurt or question or get angry but it does mean that we do not grieve as those that have no hope. In listening to this man that is what I felt - he has no hope. His eternity for her is believing her spirit is nearby. It's so very, very sad.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Seminary
Perry Noble, who started NewSpring Church and is the senior pastor and principle preacher, does not have a seminary degree. In fact, I think Clayton King is the only person on staff at any campus who has a degree from a seminary.
Perry did go for a semester but what he saw made him want to quit ministry. We have become obsessed with degrees and "learning" in our churches. At my previous church when the pastor was retiring after 26 years of ministry, the members were actually given a survey sheet to fill out about our next pastor. This included things about his marital status, age, education and teaching style so the search committee would know what the congregation wanted. In spite of this, I believe they were able to find God's choice for the position.
As I read John 7:15 today, the Pharisees were wondering about Jesus and how He got so much knowledge since He had never studied. Later, in Acts 4:13, the Pharisees are astonished at the disciples teaching because they are uneducated. The clincher, though, is the end of the verse when they "recognize that they had been with Jesus".
The same is true today. It's not how many seminary degrees a person has that gives him powerful words to say. It's whether or not he has been with Jesus. Spending time with Jesus every day, reading God's word, praying, seeking Him above all else is what gives one the ability to speak truth.
I am so grateful for Perry and the burning desire He has for hearing from Jesus and for his encouragement to me to seek Jesus for myself.
Perry did go for a semester but what he saw made him want to quit ministry. We have become obsessed with degrees and "learning" in our churches. At my previous church when the pastor was retiring after 26 years of ministry, the members were actually given a survey sheet to fill out about our next pastor. This included things about his marital status, age, education and teaching style so the search committee would know what the congregation wanted. In spite of this, I believe they were able to find God's choice for the position.
As I read John 7:15 today, the Pharisees were wondering about Jesus and how He got so much knowledge since He had never studied. Later, in Acts 4:13, the Pharisees are astonished at the disciples teaching because they are uneducated. The clincher, though, is the end of the verse when they "recognize that they had been with Jesus".
The same is true today. It's not how many seminary degrees a person has that gives him powerful words to say. It's whether or not he has been with Jesus. Spending time with Jesus every day, reading God's word, praying, seeking Him above all else is what gives one the ability to speak truth.
I am so grateful for Perry and the burning desire He has for hearing from Jesus and for his encouragement to me to seek Jesus for myself.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Jesus vs Religion
One of my favorite devotional books is Oswald Chambers' "My Utmost for His Highest". I don't know when this book was first written but Chambers died in 1917 so it was a long time ago. In the 1960s the book was updated with modern language and modern word usage.
Today I read something that I guess I knew but had not really thought about. Directed to men who were studying to be preachers of the Gospel, Chambers said, "If we simply preach the effects of redemption in the human life instead of the revealed, divine truth regarding Jesus Himself, the result is not new birth in those who listen. The result is a refined religious lifestyle..."
I thought about sermons I've heard in various churches and on TV and realized I have heard many sermons about the "effects" that didn't say a whole lot about Jesus. The "refined religious lifestyle" is what Jesus fought against while He was on earth. I don't know why it is hard for us to comprehend that first and foremost we MUST have a relationship with Jesus. We can be religious all we want but that doesn't save us, doesn't result in new birth.
Today I read something that I guess I knew but had not really thought about. Directed to men who were studying to be preachers of the Gospel, Chambers said, "If we simply preach the effects of redemption in the human life instead of the revealed, divine truth regarding Jesus Himself, the result is not new birth in those who listen. The result is a refined religious lifestyle..."
I thought about sermons I've heard in various churches and on TV and realized I have heard many sermons about the "effects" that didn't say a whole lot about Jesus. The "refined religious lifestyle" is what Jesus fought against while He was on earth. I don't know why it is hard for us to comprehend that first and foremost we MUST have a relationship with Jesus. We can be religious all we want but that doesn't save us, doesn't result in new birth.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Praying for the President
One of the things that really bothers me is all the negative emails I receive about President Obama. I did not vote for him and do not approve of his policies but he is the President of the United States of America.
Whether I approve of him or not, maybe especially if I don't, God tells me I am to pray for him, for those in authority over me. As president he certainly is in authority!
I have seen emails that are very negative, very racially charged, very emotionally charged, very I'm good he's terrible kind of things. And so many of them come from people who profess to be followers of Jesus Christ. I don't remember reading anywhere in the Bible of Jesus taking on the Romans who were the rulers over the people. Or his telling the people how awful the Gentiles were. Seems to me He went about doing what God asked Him to do and had all His harsh words for the religious.
I wonder what our country would be like if all the Christ followers who spend so much time being anti-Obama were to become pro-Christ, 100% obedient to following Him. I think we would have a revival the likes of which we can't even imagine.
But...I gotta start with me, my 100% obedience!
Whether I approve of him or not, maybe especially if I don't, God tells me I am to pray for him, for those in authority over me. As president he certainly is in authority!
I have seen emails that are very negative, very racially charged, very emotionally charged, very I'm good he's terrible kind of things. And so many of them come from people who profess to be followers of Jesus Christ. I don't remember reading anywhere in the Bible of Jesus taking on the Romans who were the rulers over the people. Or his telling the people how awful the Gentiles were. Seems to me He went about doing what God asked Him to do and had all His harsh words for the religious.
I wonder what our country would be like if all the Christ followers who spend so much time being anti-Obama were to become pro-Christ, 100% obedient to following Him. I think we would have a revival the likes of which we can't even imagine.
But...I gotta start with me, my 100% obedience!
Sunday, May 31, 2009
The Shack
I've just reread The Shack for the 4th time. I know this book is fiction but every time I read it God just overwhelms me with His love for me and how much He wants to have a deep personal relationship with me.
I particularly like the part that speaks of living in the present with God; that the past is done and the future I imagine, especially if I am in a state of fear or worry, often doesn't allow for God to be in it. The character Mack asks Jesus "Why do I have so much fear in my life?" Jesus says, "Because you don't believe." He goes on to tell how he doesn't believe God truly loves him.
In this story Mack is told over and over that it is not about religion or rules but relationship. The day by day relationship is what is important, not trying to figure out every think that is going to happen. And believing in God's love, His goodness, even when bad things happen.
Toward the end of the book, there is a need for Mack to forgive and ask forgiveness from his father who beat him and whom Mack poisoned, and to forgive the man who murdered Mack's little girl because Mack is really the one in bondage by not forgiving. I know that has been true in my own life. My harboring of anger or hatred doesn't hurt anyone but me!
This book always brings tears streaming down my face - not because of the pain and loss Mack experienced but because of the unending love of God to bring healing into Mack's life.
I particularly like the part that speaks of living in the present with God; that the past is done and the future I imagine, especially if I am in a state of fear or worry, often doesn't allow for God to be in it. The character Mack asks Jesus "Why do I have so much fear in my life?" Jesus says, "Because you don't believe." He goes on to tell how he doesn't believe God truly loves him.
In this story Mack is told over and over that it is not about religion or rules but relationship. The day by day relationship is what is important, not trying to figure out every think that is going to happen. And believing in God's love, His goodness, even when bad things happen.
Toward the end of the book, there is a need for Mack to forgive and ask forgiveness from his father who beat him and whom Mack poisoned, and to forgive the man who murdered Mack's little girl because Mack is really the one in bondage by not forgiving. I know that has been true in my own life. My harboring of anger or hatred doesn't hurt anyone but me!
This book always brings tears streaming down my face - not because of the pain and loss Mack experienced but because of the unending love of God to bring healing into Mack's life.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
How Can You Not Know
Last Thursday I stopped by Miyako's to see Jeremy for a little while. As I sat at the bar, a nice looking young business man (button up shirt, tie) sat down. After a few minutes he asked Jeremy is this your mother. When I said yes, he introduced himself.
Seems he was Andrew, a guy Jeremy went to public school with and who also grew up in the youth program at FBC. Andrew's mom and I were in the same Sunday school class for many years. We had a really long conversation and some of the things he said made me shake my head.
I brought the conversation around to church and beliefs and listened to him talk about getting into heaven by being good. I wanted to shout at him and ask had he never listened all those years he was in church. I know he heard over and over about Jesus. Yet here was this young, successful man telling me heaven was for good people.
He does feel a void in his life and knows that he should be seeking a church so of course I invited him to NewSpring. I will pray for him to come and to meet Jesus head on. But what amazed me most is how he could not know Jesus is the reason you go to heaven - not being good or bad. Maybe he DOES know but was hesitant to speak Jesus' name. That even happens with active Christ followers.
Seems he was Andrew, a guy Jeremy went to public school with and who also grew up in the youth program at FBC. Andrew's mom and I were in the same Sunday school class for many years. We had a really long conversation and some of the things he said made me shake my head.
I brought the conversation around to church and beliefs and listened to him talk about getting into heaven by being good. I wanted to shout at him and ask had he never listened all those years he was in church. I know he heard over and over about Jesus. Yet here was this young, successful man telling me heaven was for good people.
He does feel a void in his life and knows that he should be seeking a church so of course I invited him to NewSpring. I will pray for him to come and to meet Jesus head on. But what amazed me most is how he could not know Jesus is the reason you go to heaven - not being good or bad. Maybe he DOES know but was hesitant to speak Jesus' name. That even happens with active Christ followers.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Easter
I love the Easter season. A lot of people think that Christmas is the main holiday for the Church...Jesus being born in a manger. And it is important. It is the fulfillment of a ton of prophecy and lots of years of expectation.
But the only reason Jesus left His home in Heaven to be born to a virgin Jewish teenager was to die on a Roman cross so that He could pay the penalty for my sins. That just blows me away. Jesus, part of the Trinity of the God-head, son of the Living God, gave up His position, His "rights", His home in Heaven to come to earth as a man. He faced all that we face - hunger, thirst, abandonment, loneliness, tiredness, frustration, anger, temptation, joy, peace - anything, everything human existence affords.
The greatest thing He did was take on the sins of the world, bear those sins into death and the pit of Hell and then, 3 days later, rise from the dead, victorious over sin and death. And He did this for me!! So all my sins can be forgiven and I can be reconciled to a holy God; so I can have the Holy Spirit to fill me with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control; so I can spend all eternity with Him in Heaven when this body finally dies.
Easter - without it there is no hope, no forgiveness, no salvation, no forever in the presence of God.
But the only reason Jesus left His home in Heaven to be born to a virgin Jewish teenager was to die on a Roman cross so that He could pay the penalty for my sins. That just blows me away. Jesus, part of the Trinity of the God-head, son of the Living God, gave up His position, His "rights", His home in Heaven to come to earth as a man. He faced all that we face - hunger, thirst, abandonment, loneliness, tiredness, frustration, anger, temptation, joy, peace - anything, everything human existence affords.
The greatest thing He did was take on the sins of the world, bear those sins into death and the pit of Hell and then, 3 days later, rise from the dead, victorious over sin and death. And He did this for me!! So all my sins can be forgiven and I can be reconciled to a holy God; so I can have the Holy Spirit to fill me with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control; so I can spend all eternity with Him in Heaven when this body finally dies.
Easter - without it there is no hope, no forgiveness, no salvation, no forever in the presence of God.
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