A Plan for Improving One's Prayer Life

I am preparing for the coming new year by thinking through some changes I want to make in my life.  Although there are several areas I hope to improve in this year, there are two critical areas I plan on attacking this year.  Those two areas are my health (my weight in particular) and my prayer life.  While I have a vague notion as to how I will address my health issues, I'm not quite certain as to how I will approach that situation yet.  I'll have more to say about that issue in the days and weeks ahead.

However, I do have some idea how I plan on improving my prayer life.  I have been gathering resources for months (years), and I'm currently working on a plan to improve my prayer life during the current year.

First, I want to learn about more about prayer and how to pray more effectively.  I plan on reading The Complete Works of E. M. Bounds on Prayer.  I hope to read Isaac Watts' A Guide to Prayer this year too.

Next, I am working on a prayer calendar that will help pray through the church each month.  I am borrowing the system from Brian Croft from Practical Shepherding. You can view the article here.  I will also be praying daily for lost people that I know.

In addition, I am going to be working my way through other resources so that I am continually praying for missionaries at home and abroad, for the persecuted church, and for unbelievers.  One of the resources I will be using this year is the book, Operation World.  I will also be using the following websites to inform my prayer life: The Prayer Connection (NAMB); Prayer (IMB); Operation Bended Knee (KBC); and Voice of the Martyrs.

The final step in my plan is simply setting aside time each day to pray.  I want prayer to become an integral part of my life.

I plan on keeping you posted on my progress.  I hope that you will find these resources helpful, and I hope you will pray for me throughout the coming year.  May God bless you and keep you.

Check Yourself

"Each one should test his own actions.  Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else" (Gal. 6:4).

Paul instructs us to check ourselves.  We are to examine our motives and attitudes.  It is helpful to have tools to help us examine our lives.  Here is an article, "10 Questions for a New Year," by Don Whitney that can help us do that.  You can also download it here.

FAQs Mondays: What Do We Pray for in the Second Petition of the Lord's Prayer?

Last week we answered the question, "What do we pray for in the first petition of the Lord's Prayer?".  You can read that post here. Today we look at the second petition.

What do we pray for in the second petition of the Lord's Prayer?

In the second petition, which is, "Your kingdom come," (Matt. 6:10), we pray that God, by his grace, would make us able and willing to know, obey, and submit to his will in all things, as the angels do in heaven.  The psalms offer guidance.  Psalm 25:4-5 states, "Make me know your ways, O LORD; teach me your paths.  Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long."  Psalm 119:26 states, "When I told you of my ways, you answered me; teach me your statutes!"  Finally, Psalm 103:20-21 states, "Bless the LORD, O you his angels, you might ones who do his word, obeying the voice of his word!  Bless the LORD, all his hosts, his ministers, who do his will!"

Summary

We learn that the second petition is for God to make us willing and able to do his will.  The Lord's Prayer is teaching us how to conform to the will of God.  Thus, if we pray this way, we will find our hearts turned in a more toward God.  Next week, we look at the third petition as we answer the question, "What do we pray for in the third petition of the Lord's Prayer?".

Sunday Recap 12-26-10

Morning:  The sermon, "Christ Is Here, Even After Christmas Is Over," focused on Philippians 4:10-13.  In this passage, Paul reveals the secret to contentment: Christ is all we need.  Paul uses the reception of a gift as an object lesson on contentment.  He wants the Philippians to know that he is blessed by their generosity, even though he is not personally in need.  He also wants them to know that Christ's strength is the only thing that will enable them to overcome the temptations that come with want and those that come with plenty.  The passage also contains implications for giving and receiving gifts.

Some things to think about as gift-givers:

1. When you give you reflect the grace of God.
2. We need to seize every opportunity to show our concern for others.
3. Don't waste time reading between the lines.

Some things for gift-receivers:

1. You need to learn to rejoice (and be grateful) in the Lord.
2. Don't just say thank you, so that you can get more from people.
3. Learn to be content.

When Jesus is all we have, he is all we need.  He is all we need, even when we have everything.  When the presents are all unwrapped and the decorations are all put a way, we need to remind ourselves that Jesus is still right there with us.

Evening: No services.

A Christmas Reminder

From the Gospel of Luke 2:1-14, NIV:

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.)  And everyone when to his own town to register.  

So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David.  He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child.  While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son.  She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.


And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.  An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.  But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid.  I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.  Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."


Suddenly a great company of the heavenly hos appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."


May you have a blessed Christmas this year, and in years to come.  Grace and peace to you.

Thursday Humor: Mr. Bean and the Nativity

This video clip reminded me that we need to explain the nativity scene more clearly.  I also found it funny. I hope you do.  Merry Christmas.

Thinking About Christmas

Christmas is rapidly approaching, and I have been trying to prepare for it.  I spent the day working my way through several Christmas quizzes, so that I could present one at church tonight.  It is interesting to see how much of what we think we know about the Christmas story is really drawn out of tradition not the Bible.

Manger scenes that have the angels, wise men, and shepherds all gathered around baby Jesus are inaccurate at best.  Joseph, Mary and baby Jesus are usually in a stable of sorts surrounded by animals, as well.  The Nativity scenes, although inaccurate, still have valid purpose.  They can function as a mnemonic device that helps us to aid in retelling the Christmas story.

As I sifted through quizzes and various articles, I was startled by how much about Christmas I just assumed.  I knew that most people don't believe December 25th is the actual date of Jesus' birth, but I never really thought to investigate the reason we celebrate it on the 25th.  I never realized (apart from those who don't celebrate Christmas) that there are individuals who oppose Christmas trees on "biblical grounds."  I've always just assumed having a Christmas tree was okay. 

The decorations, traditions, songs, and atmosphere surrounding Christmas is driven more by cultural influence and less by biblical reflection.  Although I'm not saying that it is a bad thing, it can be.  If we never examine our cultural traditions in light of Scripture, we might find ourselves living in opposition to God.  The Pharisees were a good example of such short-sightedness.  They invented a system of dedication (corban) which permitted them to use money that they were morally obligated to invest elsewhere, particularly upon there aged parents.  Jesus condemned such hypocrisy.

We don't want to become legalistic, however we can't just do whatever we want either.  There are general principles in Scripture that can guide us in making wise decisions.  Yet at the same time, there appears to be some areas of moral neutrality, as well.  In some areas, the Bible doesn't explicitly explain what is right or wrong.  We are left with a bit of ambiguity at points. 

So long as we don't violate the clear teaching of God's Word, ignore its certain principles, or sin against our consciences, then we have liberty in Christ.  We need to think through the things that we do to make certain that we are not violating God Word.  When we have approached theme thoughtfully, prayerfully, and carefully, then we have to move forward in faith.  If after careful, prayerful though, you decide you shouldn't have a Christmas tree, don't have one.  But don't judge someone else for coming to a different conclusion at the end of their search.

The question that has been nagging me all day is, "Why do I celebrate Christmas the way I do?"  Is it just cultural instinct? Do the things I do to celebrate Christmas have a deeper, more worshipful meaning?  How can I make every part of my Christmas celebration more intimately connected to Christ?  Are the symbolic values we assign to things like a tree or lights merely a sham meant to justify actions? 

I don't have the answer to all those questions, but I really want to know.  This Christmas, I'll gather with my family around a Christmas tree, and we'll exchange gifts.  We tell the Christmas story, and be reminded that a Savior has been born, who is Christ the Lord.  And we will seek to glorify God who has shown us his favor.  May your Christmas celebration be filled with joy and gratitude and some quite reflection on the meaning of Christmas. 

Christmas Hymn: Angels We Have Heard on High

I love the Christmas hymn, "Angels We Have Heard on High."  As we meditate on the truth of God's Anointed (Christ) coming into the world, we have plenty of reasons to sing the highest praise to God.  As the song reminds us, Jesus, the Lord of heaven and earth, came into our world to rescue us from sin and death.  The song, which so long ago, alerted the shepherds of Christ's arrival, is reflected in this hymn.  We are reminded--a Savior has been born, and he is worthy of infinite adoration.  As the song says, "Come, adore on bended knee Christ the Lord, the new born King." And this Christmas let us sing glory to God in the highest (gloria in excelsis Deo).

This version is by Third Day:

FAQs Mondays: What Do We Pray for in the First Petition of the Lord's Prayer?

Last week, we answered the question, "What does the opening of the Lord's Prayer teach us?".  You can read that post here.  This week we want to continue looking at the Lord's Prayer.

What do we pray for in the first petition of the Lord's Prayer?

In the first petition, which is "Hallowed be your name," we pray that God would enable us and others to glorify him in all of life, and that he would dispose all things to his own glory.  Paul tells us, "For from him [God] and through him and to him are all things.  To him be glory forever. Amen" (Rom. 11:36).  He also reminds us, "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God" (1 Cor. 10:31).  Revelation 4:11 states, "Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created."  Hear the words of Psalm 67:1-3:

May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face to shine upon us, (Selah) that your way may be know on earth, your saving power among all nations.  Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you!

Summary

The first petition, or request, of the Lord's Prayer is that God would enable us and others to bring him glory.  We approach with a childlike confidence in our heavenly Father's love, and we ask him to make his glory known through us.  We want the world to know how great our Father in heaven truly is.  Next week, we will answer the question, "What do we pray for in the second petition of the Lord's Prayer?".

Sunday Recap 12-19-10

Morning:  The message, "Responding to God's Message," explored Luke 2:15-20.  Through this passage, we looked at 5 ways people responded to the announcement of Jesus' birth.

The first way is they responded by investigating what they heard.  They approached the task with faith, obedience, and anticipation.  They believed that they had heard a word from the Lord.  They responded to the call to go and see.  They anticipated finding what they went after.

Once they saw the child they began spreading the news.  They told everyone they came into contact with about what the angel had told them.  It appears that there was an immediate and hurried response to this message on the part of the shepherds.

The people responded with amazement.  It was an exciting story, and the people found it interesting.  However, they really didn't give it much thought.  On they day the heard it, it was news.  The next day, they moved on the other news.

Luke contrasts Mary's response to that of the crowd.  She responds by meditating on the events.  She played them over and over again in her mind.  She held on to them, trying to fit the pieces together.

Finally, we return to the shepherds. Upon finishing their investigation and reporting, they returned home giving glory to God and praising him.

These are just some of the ways people respond to the message of God.  They are all worthy of imitation if they drive us to trust the Lord.  Once we have heard the message, a response is required.  Approach that response with faith, obedience, and anticipation.

Evening:  We sought to answer the question: "Why did Jesus come?".  We looked at Matthew 1:18-25, 2:1-12; Luke 1:26-38, 2:1-20; and Mark 10:45.  There are clues in the birth narratives that help us to understand why Jesus came into the world.  We see in Matthew that the biggest clue is in the name Jesus.  He was to be named Jesus (Yahweh saves) "because he will save his people from their sins."  This teaches us that Jesus came into the world to save (rescue/forgive) people of their sins (dispositions against God/wrong actions).

He is Immanuel--God with us.  Jesus reveals God to us.  He also makes it possible for us to enter into the presence of the Lord.

He is the King of the Jews, who is the Christ.  Jesus sits upon the throne of David who will reign over the house of Jacob forever.

The summation of his ministry is found in Mark 10:45, "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and give his life as a ransom for many."

 

Seasonal Anxiety Disorder

Do the gray winter skies have you feeling blue?  Here is a helpful clip for dealing with seasonal anxiety disorder. 


Are you SAD? from Puritan Reformed on Vimeo.

Thursday Humor: Daren Streblow "Santa Claus"

Here is a little Christmas humor.  Hope you enjoy it.

FAQs Mondays: What Does the Opening of the Lord's Prayer Teach Us?

Last week, we continued our look at prayer by asking the question, "How Do We Learn to Pray?".  You can read that post here.  Scripture teaches us to pray, especially through the Lord's Prayer.  This week, we begin to look at the Lord's Prayer by asking, "What does the opening of the Lord's Prayer teach us?".

What does the preface of the Lord's Prayer teach us?

The preface of the Lord's Prayer, which is, "Our Father, who is in heaven," teaches us to draw near to God, with holy reverence and confidence, as children to the father, able and read to help us, and that we should pray with and for others.  The Lord's Prayer is found in Matthew 6:9-13.  Jesus reminded us, "If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to the those who ask him!" (Luke 11:13).  Paul said, "For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoptions as sons, by whom we cry, 'Abba! Father!'" (Rom. 8:15).  Acts 12:5 says, "So Peter was kept in prison, but earnest prayer for him was made to God by the church."  First Timothy 2:1-2 states, "First of all, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be made for all people, for kings, and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way."

Summary

The opening of the Lord's Prayer teaches us that we need to approach God as a child approaches their father.  It also teaches us that we need to approach our Father with holy reverence and confidence.  It Farther teaches us that we may (and must) approach him with our cares and concerns for others.  Next week, we will answer the question, "What do we pray for in the first petition of the Lord's Prayer?"

Sunday Recap 12-12-10

Morning:  The sermon, "A Savior Was Born," looked at Luke 2:8-14.  In this passage, angels appear to shepherds during their night watch, and reveal good news of great joy. 

The shepherds respond to this heavenly visit in fear.  In fact, the angel's first words are, "Do not be afraid."  Why were the shepherds afraid?  Were they simply startled, shocked by the late night visit? No, they "feared a great fear."  They were afraid because the fear of the Lord shown around them.  They were in the presence of the holy, and they were terrified.

The angel's words are meant to calm their fear.  The angel explains that they don't need to fear because a Savior has been born who is Christ the Lord.  They didn't need to fear any longer, because God's solution to their unholiness had finally arrived.  They would be delivered from their sin, and be brought into fellowship with God.  Peace had come to them in the form of a baby wrapped in swaddling cloth.

The Savior is Christ the Lord.  What does Christ mean?  Like the Hebrew term Messiah, the Greek term Christ means Anointed.  In the Old Testament, there were three offices for which people were anointed: prophet, priest, and king.  Jesus was anointed a prophet. He spoke the Word of God.  Jesus was anointed a priest.  He sacrificed himself for the sins of the world.  He was anointed as a king.  Jesus claimed the throne of David.

The host of angels that appear after the proclamation of Jesus' birth demonstrate the right response to the news.  The right response is to glorify God.  God should be given the highest honor, because he has brought man peace in the person of Christ.  This holiday season, we need to remember we don't have to be afraid, because Savior was born.

Evening:  no services.

ICE, ICE Baby

We went with a group from church to explore the Opryland's Winter Wonderland, ICE!  This year's theme was Santa Claus Is Coming to Town.  It was based on the characters from the classic T. V. special.  It was kind of cool (pun intended) walking through the tent full of ice sculptures.  The ice slides were pretty fast, and Sophia had a blast.  After walking through the ICE displays, we went outside to take part in the Snow! Basically, they made fake snow for the kids to play in (but not throw at each other).  The Snow! wasn't as cool as ICE.  Delia, Sophia, and I came home and watched Santa Claus Is Coming to Town.


Sophia, Queen of the Ice Slide.

What is that penguin doing here?

The rule breaker.

Thursday Humor: Brian Regan "Eye Doctor"

Here is a humorous skit about going to the eye doctor.  Brian Regan is hilarious.  I hope you enjoy it.

Immanuel

"All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: 'Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name, Immanuel' (which means, God with us)" (Matt. 1:22-23).

It is easy to be overwhelmed by the events of a day.  We often approach a day as if we know what will happen, and that most of what happens will be pleasing to our sensibilities.  However, it rarely works out that things go exactly the way the hoped they would.  Sometimes, things we could not have foreseen catch us off guard.  When that happens we need to remind ourselves of the truth contained Matthew 1:22-23.

With the words, "All this took place," Matthew sums up everything that is said in Matthew 1:1-21.  God's purpose had slowly been unfolding throughout history, slowly leading up to the birth of Christ.  Because God desired mankind to know his plan, he revealed parts of it through the prophets.  Therefore, when the words of the prophets came to pass, God was demonstrating his knowledge and power.  Such displays of his might and power, create and sustain faith in God's people.

Matthew is simply reminding the people that what God has promised, he will do.  Thus, a virgin, Mary, was with child (Jesus).  This child was to be called Immanuel.  He bares it more as a title, than a name, but it tells so much about this child. Matthew tells us that Immanuel means God with us.

Mary's child, Jesus, was God.  He wasn't simply a representative for God.  He wasn't just a man who could help point us to God.  Know he was God with us.  John 1:1 tells us that the Word (Jesus) was with God, and was God.  Although I am speaking in past tense, I don't mean to imply that Jesus isn't still God.  Jesus, the eternal Son of God, has always existed as God along side of the Father and the Spirit.  They are not three gods, but one God in three persons.  Jesus is spoken of as Creator, Redeemer, Savior, King, God, etc. throughout the New Testament.

Jesus is God, and he is With us.  The yearning on the heart of God's people is to be with and know their God.  However, this is not possible as long as there is sin within God's people.  No one can look upon God's glory and live.  Yet, God is present with us.  God, who is holy and dwells in the high and holy places, can also be found among the humble and brokenhearted (Isa. 57:15).  During Jesus' first appearing, God was showing his people that he would soon dwell with them forever (John 1:14).  Jesus said he would always be with us (Matt. 28:20). Finally, we see the glorious appear of Christ in the book of Revelation.  In Revelation 21:3-4, we are told that a day is coming when God dwells with his people forever, and they shall see him face to face. No death. No fear. No more tears.

He is God with Us.  In Christ, though we were fallen, yet are we redeemed.  In him we are saints, even though we still struggle with sin.  In him, we are becoming the righteousness of God.  We were helpless, but he has made us hopeful.

God with us, is God for us.  To paraphrase Paul, "Since God is on our side, who can stand in our way?"  And he is for us, or else he wouldn't be with us.  The next time you are overwhelmed by your circumstances, I hope you will take time to reflect on Immanuel. 

Hymns: I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day

Following the loss of his beloved wife, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow found the holidays to be unbearably sad.  The tension and brutality caused by the Civil War only added to his grief.  As Christmas approached, a darkness descended.  The final straw came when his son, Charles, was injured during the war in 1863.  Longfellow waved the flag of surrender and abandoned any hope of God bringing peace on earth.  However, something awakened within him on Christmas Day in 1864.  He penned the words of his poem, "Christmas Bells," which was eventually shortened to 5 stanzas, and transformed into a carol.  For more information you can read more here.

In this song, we are reminded that God is in control, even in when we can't see him working because we surrounded by darkness.  God is not dead, nor does he sleep.  So we can trust him, even in times when we do not know what he is doing. I think it was C. H. Spurgeon who said, "When you can't trace God's hand, trust his heart."  Longfellow says the same thing, but in slightly different words.

Here are the lyrics:

I heard the bells on Christmas day
Their old familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet the words repeat
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

I though how, as the day had come,
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along th'unbroken song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

And in despair I bowed my head:
"There is no peace on earth" I said
"For hate is strong, and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men."

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep,
"God is not dead, nor doth He sleep,
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail,
With peace on earth, good will to men."

Till, ringing, singing, on its way,
The world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime, a chant sublime,
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

Here is a video of, "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day," arranged by Mark Hall, performed by Casting Crowns.

FAQs Mondays: How Do We Learn to Pray?

Last week, we began a series on prayer by answering the question, "What is Prayer?".  You can read that post here. Since "Prayer is an offering up of our desires to God, for things agreeable to his will, in the name of Christ, with confession of our sins and thankful acknowledgment of his mercies," we need to know how to pray.

What rule has God given for our direction in prayer?

The whole Word of God is of use to direct us in prayer, but the special rule of direction is that prayer, which Christ taught his disciples, commonly called the Lord's Prayer. Paul reminds us that, "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work" (2 Tim. 3:16-17).  Jesus prayed:

Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name.
Your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our debts,
as we have also forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.

Summary

Prayer is talking with God, but it is also more.  When we pray we are to pray for God's will and in the name of Jesus' name.  Praying in Jesus' name means that we are praying in such a way that his name will be rightly represented and glorified through our request.  Scripture teaches how to pray by showing us God's will, showing us Jesus' character, and by showing us the prayers of others.  One one the most instructive prayer in Scripture is often called "The Lord's Prayer."  This prayer is model Jesus gave to his disciples to help them learn how to pray.  Over the next few weeks, we will look at each part of the Lord's Prayer.  Next week, we answer the question, " What does the opening of the Lord's Prayer teach us?"

Sunday Recap 12-5-10

Morning: The message, "Some Things You Need to Know," explored Ecclesiastes 7:19-29.  Solomon places a gen of wisdom before us to guide us through the rest of Chapter 7.  He says, "Wisdom makes one wise man more powerful than ten rulers of a city."  There is power in wisdom, but in order to attain it (wisdom and its power) we need to know a few things.  We need to know our hearts, our limits, our weaknesses, and our world.

We need to know our hearts.  To become wise we must know our hearts.  Jeremiah 17:9 states, "The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure.  Who can understand it?"  Jesus said, "For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander" (Matt. 15:19).  Solomon reminds us that "There is not a righteous person who always does right and never sins" (Ecc. 7:19).

Solomon reminds us that a self-absorbed, self-centered approach to life is dangerous.  He warns against trying to overhear what others are saying, because we all know we have said things others weren't meant to overhear. Sometimes we feel like the elderly woman who said, "If you can't think of something nice to say about someone, at least make it juicy!" But it is better to leave well enough alone.  We need to realize that hearts are prone to wander, and we need someone to give us a new heart.

We also need to know are limitations.  The kind of wisdom Solomon was searching for is beyond human attainment. We can't get it, God must give it to us.  Since our hearts are bent toward sin, we cannot discern the path of pleasing God on our own.  That is what James reminds us of in James 1:5.  As creature we have limitations.  As sinners we have limitations.  We must acknowledge those and seek wisdom that comes from above. 

In addition to understanding our hearts and our limits, we need to understand our weaknesses.  To paraphrase Solomon, "I'd rather be dead than ensnared by an immoral woman . . . again."  Solomon had a serious woman problem.  Today he would be in rehab for sexual addiction.  His real problem is that he lacked discipline and was incapable of telling himself no.  Although he appeared to be aware of the dangers, he took no action to prevent his meltdown. We must realize that God points out our faults (often through other people) so that we can keep our guard up.

As Solomon pursued the meaning of life, he came to realize that mankind's battle wasn't just an internal one.  We need to know our world.  The pursuit of godly wisdom is hard enough considering our hearts, our limits, and our weaknesses.  But our world makes it harder still.  To paraphrase Solomon again, "While putting the pieces of the puzzle of life together, I discovered that the world is a fallen place. "

Solomon had only known a few men he counted righteous.  And he had surrounded himself with women without ever giving consideration to their moral character.  Maybe he was attracted to their beauty, their wealth, their political connections, etc.  Whatever it was, we can be confident that he wasn't looking for a Proverbs 31 woman.  We know from elsewhere that Solomon knew and admired godly women, so what is his point in this analysis?  Ultimately, the people we surround ourselves with will determine the ease or difficulty of our journey.

Wisdom is a noble pursuit.  It gives the power to live a life that is pleasing to God, but it does not come easily, and it cannot be obtained by merely human efforts.  If we come to know our hearts, our limits, our weaknesses, and our world, then we can navigate the difficult journey.  We obtain wisdom by grace through faith, much like our salvation.  As we put it into practice, it makes the journey easier.  Now that you know the things you need to know, start pursing wisdom for the glory of God.

Evening: Business meeting.

Thursday Humor: Jeff Allen "Underwear"

Here is some humor for your Thursday.  This skit by Jeff Allen makes me laugh out loud.  I hope you enjoy it.

Hopes for Tomorrow

In 1 Thessalonians 5:23-28, we find the apostle Paul expressing his hopes for the church's future.  His prayers in this passage are anchored in his confidence in God's faithfulness.  He states, "The one who calls is faithful and he will do it" (1 Thes. 5:24).  Rooted in that confidence, Paul expresses his desires.

1. Paul hopes that God will sanctify believers through and through. What does it mean to be sanctified? A good description is found in Galatians 5:22-23, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law."  Paul's prayer is that God would wholly and completely sanctify the believers.

2. Paul hopes that God will keep them blameless (spirit/soul/body) until the appearing of Jesus.  Paul's prayer here is that God would make them fully mature in Christ.

3. Paul hopes they will pray for him.

4. Paul hopes the will live in unity. The holy kiss was symbolic of closeness and family. 

5. Paul hopes they will read this letter out loud.  Actually, he is commanding the letter to be read before the entire congregation. 

6. Paul hopes grace abounds in their lives.  When we speak about sanctification, we often fall into one of two errors.  We either think it is all about us working hard, or about God doing all the work.  Paul reminds us in Philippians 2:12-13 that it is really about working in conjunction with God.  We are saved by grace, we grow by grace, and we are kept by grace.

Paul's hopes for the Thessalonian church are my hopes for Monticello.  I want to see Christ formed in each member's life, as well as, in my own.  May he sanctify you and keep you.

Hymns: "Before the Throne of God Above"

"My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin.  But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.  He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world" (1 John 2:1-2, ESV).

It is easy to forget that the believer is in a continual state of war, until our enemies--the flesh, the world, and the devil--hand us a thorough beat down.  With our guard down, the enemy can easily slip in and plant seeds of disobedience in our hearts, which quickly germinate in the the flesh's fertile soil.  Once the desire is conceived, it gives birth to sin, and when sin grows it leads to death (see James 1:15).  The careless believer is left wounded, and open to further predation.  Our enemy preys upon the weak.

There are many places in the New Testament in which we are warned to keep watch (Luke 21:36; Acts 20:31; Col. 4:2; 1 Thes. 5:6-8; Titus 2:11-12; 1 Pet. 1:13, 4:7, 5:8; 2 Pet. 1:6; etc.).  It is easy for the spiritually wounded to give in to despair.  It is easy to think, "I sinned, now God will not accept me."  However, John informs us that this is not the case.  It is true that God desires that we do not sin, but it is equally true that we have an advocate before the Father, Jesus our Lord.

I have found the song, "Before the Throne of God Above," to be a soothing reminder of the truth taught in 1 John 2:1-2.  The words, penned by Charitie Lees Bancroft (and Vikki Cook), state:

Before the throne of God above
I have a strong and perfect plea;
A great high priest whose name is Love,
Who ever lives and pleads for me.
My name is graven on His hands,
My name is written in His heart.
I know that while in heav'n He stands
No tongue can bid me thence depart,
No tongue can bid me thence depart.

When Satan tempts me to despair
And tells me of my guilt within,
Upward I look and see Him there
Who made an end to all my sin.
Because the sinless Savior died
My sinful soul is counted free;
For God the just is satisfied
To look on him and pardon me,
To look on him and pardon me.

Behold Him there, the risen Lamb,
My perfect spotless righteousness,
The great unchangeable I AM,
The King of glory and of grace.
One with Himself I cannot die;
My soul is purchased by His blood.
My life is hid with Christ on high,
With Christ my Savior and my God,
With Christ my Savior and my God!

Here is a video to encourage you:

FAQs Mondays: What Is Prayer?

Last week, we looked at the Lord's Supper in part 4 of our series How Does God Reveal the Benefits of Redemption?  You can view that post here.  Although this week it technically a continuation of that series, we will treat the subject of prayer as a separate series. 

What is Prayer?

Prayer is an offering up of our desires to God, for things agreeable to his will, in the name of Christ, with confession of our sins and thankful acknowledgment of his mercies.  Psalm 10:17 states, "You hear, O LORD, the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry."  David wrote, "He [the LORD] fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them" (Psa. 145:19).  First John 1:9 states, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."  John also states, "This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.  And if we know that he hears us--whatever we ask--we know that we have what we asked of him" (1 John 5:14-15).  Paul urges, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God" (Phil. 4:6).  Jesus said, "And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father.  You may ask me for anything in my name and I will do it" (John 14:13-14).

Summary

We begin our look at prayer with a concise definition.  It contains all the elements that make up true Christian prayer.  Prayer is us talking to God, asking for the things we want, that are according to his will, and that are in step with his nature.  We can ask for things that are not in his will or that are not in Christ's name, but there is no reason to hope that those prayers will be answered.  Prayer should include more than just requests, it should also contain confession of our sins, and expressions of our gratitude.  Next week, we will turn our attention to answering the question, "How do we learn to pray?"




Unless otherwise noted, the Scripture quotations in this post are from the NIV.

Sunday Recap 11-28-10

Morning: The message, "Consider What the Lord Has Done," examined Ecclesiastes 7:13-18.  In this passage, Solomon calls for his readers to give consideration to the work of the Lord.  Solomon reminds us that mankind cannot straighten what God has made crooked.  God is sovereign over all things.  When life is good, we are to enjoy it.  When it is bad, we need to remember is God is in control.  The answer isn't the pursuit of karma.  The answer is not legalism or licentiousness.  The person who fears God avoids all extremes.  The answer is to walk in obedience to the Lord.

Evening:  We looked at Psalm 111.  In this passage, the reader is called to praise the Lord.  The psalmist reminds us that the right response to God is praise.  He then lists many reasons it is right to praise God:

• His works are great and delightful to study
• His deeds are glorious and majestic
• His righteousness endures forever
• He makes his wonders memorable 
• He is gracious and compassionate
• He provides for those who fear him
• He remembers his covenant forever
• He has demonstrated his power to his people by moving the nations
• His works are faithful and just
• His precepts are trustworthy, standing fast forever, done in faithfulness and uprightness
• He redeems his people
• He secures them with an eternal covenant
• His name is holy and awesome

Thus the psalmist concludes that the secret to a wise life it to fear the Lord, follow his precepts, and praise without ceasing.

A Day to Be Grateful

Thanksgiving Day should be a time of gratitude.  We can give thanks for so many things.  God blesses us in so many ways that we tend to forget most of them.

Somewhere in our country, there is someone complaining about "having" to fix Thanksgiving dinner.  Yesterday, I saw a story on the news about a single-mother whose family couldn't afford a Thanksgiving dinner, and who didn't even have a table to sit around.  A restaurant in her area not only provided a 5 course meal, they also had a table delivered to her house.  I'm sure she is grateful for the generosity of others, but I bet she would have been grateful if she could have done it on her own.  Take time to be grateful for the ability to prepare a meal (even though it is hard work that may go unappreciated).

There is probably someone at this very moment complaining about their company, while someone else is grieving over an empty place setting, because that person isn't coming back.  It so easy to forget that time is short.  We always assume that there will be a tomorrow in which we can get everything worked out.  But who knows if we will live to see tomorrow?  Take time to be thankful for the people in your life (even the annoying ones).

There is probably someone complaining about those noisy, rowdy kids who are running through the house, while someone else is weeping because they don't hear the pitter-patter of little feet.  We tend to forget how much we wished we had kids before we got them.  We dreamed of all they would be, thought of how cute they would look in this or that outfit, and how smart they would be.  Having children brings your head out of the clouds as you realize that there is this little person who is completely independent of you, yet dependent on you, and for whom you are responsible.  They need lots of attention, food, and someone to clean up after them.  It's not all fashion shows and spelling bees, but it is so worth it.  Take time to be thankful for the children in your life (even the noisy ones).

Gratitude is a wonderful feeling.  We should all feel grateful.  But it wasn't meant to be undirected.  Gratitude is an emotion that is to be expressed toward someone.  In particular, gratitude is meant to be directed toward God.  To paraphrase James, all good gifts come from our heavenly Father.  Thanksgiving Day is a day to reflect on the glorious grace of God, and to offer up prayers of thanks and praise in his name.

I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving, and that you take the time to thank God for all he has done for you.  May God continue to bless you and keep you.

Hymns: Farther Along

Have you ever known someone who felt that living the Christian life wasn't really worth all the trouble?  Maybe you have been there yourself.  We want hardship to be the lot of "sinners" and "unbelievers."  There is a common misconception among Christians today which suggests that placing one's faith in Christ will remove all hardship.  However, that is not the way Jesus counseled countless seekers.  Jesus always warned that one should count the cost of discipleship before following in his tracks.  For some it cost their wealth, others lost their family, others lost their freedom, and still others lost their lives.

Being aware of the fact that believers are guaranteed to suffer in Christ, does not always prepare a believer for suffering. Seeing a murderer go free because of a technicality, forces us to question the reality of justice.  It is difficult to understand how rapists and child molesters are allowed to continue the devastating practices.  Why doesn't God just stop them?  A glance at the paper or a clip of the evening news often leaves us wondering what is going on in the world.

These feelings are nothing new.  In 1937, W. B. Stevens, penned the words to the hymn, "Farther Along."  The song captures both the frustration of the human experience and the reality of providence.  We cannot see all ends.  We don't always (usually) know what God is up to.  In the midst of our confusion, we have the choice to trust or not.  The evidence of God's character compels us to trust.  In order to do that we must look beyond our circumstance to the one who is control, and remind ourselves that he is trust worthy.

Stevens wrote:

Tempted and tried we're oft made to wonder
Why it should be thus all the day long,
While there are others living about us,
Never molested tho' in the wrong.

(Chorus)
Farther along we'll know all about it,
Farther along we'll understand why;
Cheer up my brother, live in the sunshine,
We'll understand it all by and by.

When death has come and taken our loved ones,
It leaves our home so lonely and drear;
Then do we wonder why others prosper
Living so wicked year after year. (Chorus)

Faithful till death, said our loving Master,
A few more days to labor and wait,
Toils of the road will then seem nothing,
As we sweep through that beautiful gate. (Chorus)

When we see Jesus coming in glory,
When he comes from his home in the sky;
Then we shall meet Him in that bright mansion,
We'll understand it all by and by. (Chorus)

 There will be times in which we must remind ourselves that a day is coming when we will no longer be tempted or tried.  A day is coming when the wicked will no longer prosper.  There is coming day when we shall see our Master in all of his glory and our questions will all drop away.  Until that day, we must remind ourselves that we'll understand it all by and by.

Here is Johnny Cash's version:



Here is Brad Paisley's version:

FAQs Mondays: How Does God Reveal the Benefits of Redemption? Part 4

Last week, we explored the meaning of baptism in part 3 of our look at the ways in which God reveals the benefits to redemption.  You can view that post here.  This week, we take a closer look at the Lord's Supper.

What is the Lord's Supper?

The Lord's Supper is a holy ordinance of the church.  By eating bread and drinking the cup according to Christ's appointment we who forth his death.  Those who eat and drink in a worthy manner partake of the Christ's body and blood, not physically, but spiritually in that by faith they are nourished with the benefits he purchased, and grow in grace.  Paul asks, "The cup of blessing that we bless, is is not a participation in the blood of Christ?  The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? (1 Cor. 10:6).   He also says,

For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night hew was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, "This is my body which is for you.  Do this in remembrance of me."  In the same way he also took the cup, after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood.  Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me."  For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes (1 Cor. 11:23-26).

Who are the proper subjects of the ordinance?

Those who have been baptized upon a personal profession of their faith in Jesus Christ and repentance from dead works.  Acts 2:42 states, "And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers."

What is required to the worthy receiving of the Lord's Supper?

It is required of those who would worthily (that is, suitably) partake of the Lord's Supper, that they examine themselves--of their knowledge, that they may discern the Lord's body; their faith, that they feed upon him; and their repentance, love and new obedience; lest coming unworthily, they eat and drink judgment to themselves.  Paul states,

Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of profaning the body and blood of the Lord.  Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup.  For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the the body eats and drinks judgment on himself (1 Cor. 11:27-29). 

Paul also states, "Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith.  Test yourselves.  Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?--unless indeed you fail to meet the test!" (2 Cor. 13:5).

Summary

This week, we have learned about the Lord's Supper.  Only the saved and baptized should partake of the Lord's supper.  It is a memorial that looks back at Christ's atoning sacrifice, and a look to the future when Christ returns to claim his own.  Next week, we look at the last way God communicates the benefits of redemption to his people.  We will try to answer the question, "What is prayer?"

Sunday Recap 11-21-10

Morning:  The sermon, "A Better Way," focused on Ecclesiastes 7:1-12.  Having considered the alternatives, Solomon returns to wisdom.  In the first six chapters, he has shown them where a life without obedience to God leads: darkness, dread, and despair. 

He urges them to realize that there is more than, now and then. He points out to his readers that they should spend time thinking about their deaths, and live in a way that produces a good reputation.

He then reminds them that laughter has a place.  Life should not be lived in self-absorbed pleasure seeking.  Serious reflection on life and its purpose, enables the individual to make wiser choices than foolish partying.

Combining the previous two concepts, he compels his readers to consider a longer view.  Life isn't about fast and furious starts.  Beginnings aren't as important as ending well.  Solomon suggests patience and calmness.

Finally, he reminds his reader that wisdom preserves.  Wisdom is like money in that it can shelter you in a storm in this life.  However, wisdom is better than money in that it prepares you for the after life.

Solomon's words remind us to pursue wisdom, to live wisely, and to rest in the Lord.

Evening:  We moved our evening services to join with our sister churches in the association for the annual Associational Thanksgiving Service.  It was a wonderful service.

Hosanna

Open to me the gates of righteousness, 

that I may enter through them and give thanks to the LORD.

This is the gate of the LORD; the righteous shall enter through it.

I thank you that you have answered me and have become my salvation.

The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.

This is the LORD's doing; it is marvelous in our eyes.

This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Save us, we pray, O LORD!

O LORD, we pray, give us success!

Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD!

We bless you from the house of the LORD.

The LORD is God, and he has made his light to shine upon us.

Bind the festal sacrifice with cords, up to the horns of the altar!

You are my God, and I will give thanks to you;

You are my God; I will extol you.

Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good;

for his steadfast love endures forever!

Psalm 118:19-29

Thursday Humor: Ron Pearson "Teachers"

Here is another skit by Ron Pearson. I thought it was funny. I hope it makes you laugh.

A Brief Manual for Church Life

Paul lays out some final instructions for the church in 1 Thessalonians 5:12-22.  We divided the concerns into three categories: concerning leaders, concerning liberty, and concerning life.

Concerning Leaders

Paul instructs the church in Thessalonica to respect their leaders.  Leaders are described as those who work hard among the people, who are over them (watch care), and who admonish (train) them.  The work of church leadership is to equip the saints for works of ministry.  They focus is primarily on the study and teaching of the Word and prayer.  They also have the responsibility of caring for God's people.  In addition to respecting their leaders, they are to hold them in the highest regard in love, because of the work they do.

Concerning Liberty

Paul urges the church to seek peace with everyone.  In this last part of verse 13, he transitions between our attitudes toward church leadership to our relationships with other believers. The call for peace sets the tone fro all that follows.

Concerning Life

Paul urges believers to live peaceably, but to also hold each other accountable.  He calls them to live well, and to help others to do the same.  He urges the church to :

• Warn the idle
• Encourage the timid (faint-hearted)
• Help the weak
• Be patient with everyone (don't let your emotions boil over)
• Not pay back evil with evil, to to pursue the good of the other person (see Matt. 5:44-48; Rom. 12:14-21)
• Be joyful always
• Pray continually (live in a worshipful attitude)
• Give thanks in all circumstances (or in all times)
• Not put our the Spirit's fire
• Not treat prophecies with contempt
• Test everything (carefully examine)
• Keep the good
• Avoid evil

In these verses, Paul sets forth a brief sketch of the ethical implications of the gospel.  His words can be viewed as a brief manual on church life.  His concise instructions are straight forward and profound.  May we be wise enough to heed them.

Hymns: Be Thou My Vision

The hymn, "Be Thou My Vision," draws from a prayer, attributed to Dallan Forgaill in the 6th Century (and by some to St. Patrick).  It was translated from Old Irish into English by Mary E. Byrne in 1905.  Eleanor H. Hull versified it in 1912.  The song captures the cry of a heart yearning for complete devotion to Christ.  It is a prayer for all the things it lacks, and a commitment to the One who can bring them about.  Here are two versions you might enjoy.  The first is by Selah, the second is by Eden's Bridge.

FAQs Mondays: How Does God Reveal the Benefits of Redemption? Part 3.

Last week, we have learned that Baptism and the Lord's Supper become effective for salvation through the blessing of Christ and the working of the Spirit upon those who receive them in faith.  These ordinances are different than the other ordinances, because they were instituted by Christ to function as visible and outward signs of the new covenant. You can view that post here.  This week, we will look at Baptism in greater detail.

 What is baptism?

Baptism is a holy ordinance, in which immersion in the water in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, signifies our being joined to Christ and our sharing the benefits of the covenant of grace, and our engagement to be the Lord's.  Jesus said, "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and the Holy Spirit" (Matt. 28:19).  Paul said,

"Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death?  We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.  For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly by united with him in a resurrection like his (Rom. 6:3-5).

 Again of baptism, Paul states, "Having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead" (Col. 2:12).  We are also reminded, "For as many of you were baptized into Christ have put on Christ" (Gal. 3:27).

To whom is baptism to be administered?

Baptism is to be administered to all those who actually profess repentance towards God, faith in and obedience to our Lord Jesus Christ; and to no other.  Acts 2:38 states, "And Peter said to them, 'Repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."  Acts 8:12 states, "But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women."  Again we are told, "'Can anyone withhold water for baptizing these people [Cornelius and those in his household who believed], who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?'  And he [Peter] commanded them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ.  Then they asked him to remain for some days" (Acts 10:47-48).   Sinners went out to John the Baptist, "and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins" (Matt. 3:6).

Are the infants of professing believers to be baptized?

The infants of believers are not to be baptized; because there is neither command nor example in the Holy Scriptures, nor implication from them to baptize such.  But baptism is made an expression of faith.  Peter said, "Baptism, which corresponds to this [the ark], now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ" (1 Pet. 3:21, see also Col. 2:12 and Gal. 3:26-27).

How is baptism rightly administered?

Baptism  is rightly administered by immersion, or dipping the whole body of the person in water, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and the Holy Spirit according to Christ's institution, and the practice of the apostles, and not by sprinkling or pouring of water, or dipping some part of the body, after the tradition of men.  Of Jesus' baptism it states, "And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him" (Matt. 3:16).  We are told, "John also was baptizing at Aenon near Salim, because water was plentiful there; and people were coming and being baptized" (John 2:23; see also John 4:1-2).  Acts 8:38 states, "And he commanded the chariot to stop, and they both went down into the water, Philip and the eunuch, and he baptized  him."

What is the duty of those who are rightly baptized?

It is the duty of those who are rightly baptized to give themselves to some visible and orderly church of Jesus Christ, that they may walk in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.  Acts 2:46-47 states, "And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people.  And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved."  Peter said, "You yourselves like living stones are being built into a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ" (1 Pet. 2:5).  The author of Hebrews said, "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near" (Heb. 10:24-25).

What it the visible church?

The visible church is the organized society of professing believers, in all ages and places, wherein the gospel is truly preached and the ordinances of Baptism and the Lord's Supper administered in true faith.  Acts 2:42 describes the early church in these terms, "And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and fellowship, the breaking of bread and the prayers."  Acts 20:7 states, "On the first day of the week, when we were gathered together to break bread, Paul talked with them, intending to depart on the next day, and he prolonged his speech until midnight."  Paul states, "And he [Jesus] gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ" (Eph. 4:11-12).

What is the invisible church?

The invisible church is the who number of the elect that have been, are, or shall be gathered into one under Christ the head.  Jesus said, "And I have other sheep that are not of this fold.  I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice.  So there will be one flock, one shepherd" (John 10:16).  John recorded, "He did not say this of his own accord, but being high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the nation, and not for the nation only, but also to gather into one the children of God who are scattered abroad" (John 11:51-52).  Paul said God revealed the mystery of the gospel, "As a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth" (Eph. 1:10).  He also said, "And he put all things under his [Christ's] feet and gave him as head over all thing to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all" (Eph. 1:22-23). 

Summary

This week, we learned that baptism is the ordinance whereby a believer is immersed in water as a symbol of their union with Christ in his death and resurrection.  It is done in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.  Baptism signifies a person's commitment to walk in continual obedience to Jesus Christ, their Lord and Savior.  It is a prerequisite to membership in the visible church (a local congregation), and a mark of belonging to the invisible church (all of God's children, from every age).  Next week, we turn our attention to the Lord's Supper, as we seek to answer the question: "How does God reveal the benefits of redemption?" Part 4.

Sunday Recap 11-14-10

Morning: The message, "Why Not Me," examined Ecclesiastes 6:1-12. We find Solomon in a dark place in this passage.  He seems to be struggling with the reality that there are some who are blessed by God and they get to enjoy those blessings, and then there are those who are blessed by God, but don't get to enjoy those blessings.  Solomon uses exaggerated examples of "blessing" from his culture: wealth, long life, and children.  If the greatest good Solomon can imagine is knowing God and enjoying his blessing, then it is easy to see why knowing about God without the experience of enjoying his blessing is such a grievous evil to Solomon.

Solomon points out a great burden that (some) of mankind must bear.  He calls it an evil.  The great burden is to be blessed by God without ability to enjoy those blessings.  Stress, anxiety, fear, pride, foolishness, and more rob us of the ability to enjoy the many blessing is life.  Solomon seems to be asking the question, "Why don't I get to enjoy all that I have been blessed with?"  In other words, he is asking, "Why not me?"  But Solomon knows the answer.  He has striven under the sun, without giving God the proper place in his life.

The realization that he bore the burden of regret left Solomon with unending questions.  Don't we all go down to the grave?  Is there any point to choosing wisdom over folly?  Does anything ever change?  What's the point? 

The darkness of this passage reminds us of the dangers of self-pity.  With his focus on himself, Solomon can only sink lower and lower.  I this passage represents Solomon's rock bottom.  He can't get any lower.  All that is left is to look up.  Solomon has to take a dose of the medicine he has prescribed to others: he has to turn to God. 

Evening: We had a very enjoyable singing this evening with the Telestials.

Come Ye Sinners

As I mentioned in a previous post, I love the song, "Come, Ye Sinners, Poor and Needy," or as it is also called, "I Will Arise and Go to Jesus."  The song captures the essence of the gospel.  Humanity is revealed in its weakness, Christ is displayed as gracious Redeemer.  The images are so well blended they both haunt and comfort the listener.

Verse one states, "Come, ye sinners, poor and needy, weak and wounded, sick and sore; Jesus ready stands to save you, full of pity, love, and power."  This song is an invitation to receive the good news of Jesus Christ.  Sinners who are "poor and needy, weak and wounded, sick and sore," are urged to come the the waiting Savior.  The Savior who awaits is not only wanting to save, but he also has the power to save.

Verse two states, "Come, ye thirsty, come, and welcome, God's free bounty glorified; True belief and true repentance, every grace that brings you nigh."  In this verse, the demands of the gospel are laid out.  Salvation is an act of God's grace.  By his grace he calls us to believe and to repent.  Then in his grace, he receives our faith and justifies us in Christ.  The thirsty are compelled to come, in faith and repentance, and find grace in abundance.

Verse three states, "Come, ye weary, heavy laden, lost and ruined by the fall; If you tarry till you're better, you will never come at all." Here the song speaks to the undecided.  They know that they cannot keep God's righteous commandments, but they afraid to approach.  They are wondering if it is possible the Jesus would greet them with open arms.  They feel the weight of their sin, but fear that it's too great of a burden for Jesus to lift.  After all, they reason, why would he want to save someone like me.  Their minds waffle back and forth, usually settling on a compromise--they will reform their lives, then they will seek God's forgiveness.  Here we are warned, "If you tarry till you're better, you will never come at all."

The final verse states, "Let not conscience make you linger, nor a fitness fondly dream; all the fitness he requires, is to feel your need of Him."  The human conscience is warped.  Sin has damaged it, and without continual reformatting through Bible study it can lead us astray.  There is no righteousness in us.  No good thing dwells in our flesh. No is good, no not one. None seeks after God. (See Romans 3).  God requires a perfection that we do not and cannot possess.  We need a righteousness greater than the Pharisees (moralists), but the only way that can happen is to trust God to make us righteous through Jesus Christ.

The refrain offers the right response to the message of the gospel.  It says, "I will arise, and go to Jesus, he will embrace me in his arms; in the arms of my dear Savior, O there are ten thousand charms."  The Lord is calling humanity to return to him, to trust him.  Jesus stands ready to receive all who come to him in faith.  Have you heard that call?  Are you poor and needy?  Thirsty? Weary and heavy laden? Lost and ruined by the fall?  Jesus ready stands to save you, full of pity, love, and power.  If you tarry till your better, you will never come at all.  Why not turn to Jesus in faith and repentance?

Thursday Humor: Great with Kids

After a long day, I like to wind down with a little comedy.  This clip of Ron Pearson is hysterical.  I hope it make you laugh.

Thoughts on the End

"For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Thes. 5:9).

In 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Paul offers the church a few thoughts on the end.  The early church didn't have time to focus on the study of the end times, they were busy establishing the church, defending the deity and humanity of Christ, and enduring persecution.  Although their doctrine of the end times was not as fleshed out as it has been in recent generations, they lived with the end in sight.  Now, as then, many people are trying to figure out how the end will turn out.  Paul is more concerned with how we live in light of the end.  Here are some thoughts on the end.

1. The coming Day of the Lord.

• Paul warns us that it isn't something we can pinpoint, but it is something for which we can prepare. 

• He warns that it will come like a thief in the night (see also Matt. 24:36-51; Luke 12:35-40; 2 Pet. 3:10). It is something that will catch the majority of humanity off guard, because they did keep watch for its coming.

• It will come like labor pains.  Paul may mean couple of things.  He may mean it comes suddenly even though it is anticipated.  Pregnant women are not surprised by the onset of labor, but they never know when it will hit them.  Paul may also mean that it is like labor in that once the starts, there is no stopping it.

2. A message for the sons of light

In verses 4-8a, Paul teaches us some important principles.  He states,

• The Day won't be a surprise for believers, because they are not in the darkness.  They are no longer spiritual blinded by the god of this age.  Their eyes have been opened by the Holy Spirit.

• Believers are sons of the light and sons of the day.  The term "son of" is used to express the reality of a shared nature.  We share in the same nature of the light and the day.  Light is our spiritual DNA.

• The darkness doesn't own us, so we're free to be different, free to obey Christ.

• We are not "asleep," so let's be alert and self controlled.  Paul is speaking of those individuals who are morally ambivalent. They are complacent.

• We belong to the day, so we need to quit the deeds of the darkness.  Sleep and drunkenness are metaphors for being defenseless and controlled by outside forces.

3. The right response

Paul sets out a four-fold response in verses 8b-11.

• We are to be (alert and) self-controlled.

• We do this by putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.  In other words, we have to preach the gospel to ourselves, as Paul demonstrates in verses 9-10.

• We must then encourage each other and build each other up. If we are going to build each other up, we will have to spend time with each other, correcting and encouraging, rebuking and training.

• Finally, we have to keep up the good work.  Paul recognized the good that the church was already doing, and encouraged them to keep it up.

Hymns: "Come, Ye Sinners, Poor and Needy"

Music is a powerful medium.  There is something about music that reaches down deep within the inner man and penetrates the impenetrable. When words are combined with music, two powerful elements are combined into a  synergistic force.  Music impresses the message, like a signet ring in melted wax, upon heart, mind, and soul.

It is no wonder then why humanity has combined words and music since the beginning.  A lie set to music can ravage the soul, and by extension, a society.  Truth set to music can build up the soul, and by extension, a society.  Although what I am saying is not unique to the church, I want to focus on it from a Christian perspective.  Hymns, psalms, and spiritual songs should play a vital role in the life of a believer and in the life of the church.

I say these things in order to explain both my previous "hymn" entries and my future practice of posting hymns and other songs here.  I don't want to get into the habit of slapping a video up here and thinking I'm done.  The songs I select are songs that resonate with me.  They speak to some need in my life and keep directing me back to Jesus.  They expand my heart with visions of his greatness and teach my lips to praise his holy name.  They discipline my mind to think more biblically, more worshipfully.  I hope they will do the same for you.

Here is this week's song: "Come, Ye Sinners, Poor and Needy" or "I Will Arise and Go to Jesus." My favorite version is performed by Ruut Sallinen. However, I couldn't find a video of that version.  I hope you enjoy this one:

FAQs Mondays: How Does God Reveal the Benefits of Redemption? Part 2

Last week we began looking at the outward and ordinary means through which the benefits of redemption are communicated to us.  We focused on the first one, the Word.  You can view that post here. This week, we'll start to look at Baptism and the Lord's supper for the second part of our question, "How does God reveal the benefits of redemption?"

 How do Baptism and the Lord's Supper become effective means of salvation?

Baptism and the Lord's Supper become effective means of salvation, not from any virtue in them or in him that administers them, but only by the blessing of Christ, and the working of his Spirit in those who by faith receive them.  Peter states, "Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ" (1 Pet. 3:21).  Paul states, "For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body--Jews or Greeks, slaves or free--and all were made to drink of one Spirit" (1 Cor. 12:13).  He also said, "I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.  So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth" (1 Cor. 3:6-7).

How do Baptism and the Lord's Supper differ from the other ordinances of God?

Baptism and the Lord's Supper differ from the other ordinances of God in that they were specially instituted by Christ to represent and apply to believers the benefits of the new covenant by visible and outward signs.  Jesus commanded, "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age" (Matt. 28:19-20).  Matthew also records,

Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, "Take, eat; this is my body." And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, "Drink of it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins" (Matt. 26:26-28).

Ananias said to Paul, "And now why do you wait? Rise and be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on his name" (Acts 22:16).  Of baptism, Paul stated, "We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life" (Rom. 6:4).

Summary

We have learned that Baptism and the Lord's Supper become effective for salvation through the blessing of Christ and the working of the Spirit upon those who receive them in faith.  These ordinances are different than the other ordinances, because they were instituted by Christ to function as visible and outward signs of the new covenant.  We will look at Baptism in greater detail next week in part 3.

Sunday Recap 11-7-10

Morning: The sermon, "More Money, More Problems," focused on Ecclesiastes 5:8-20.  In this passage, Solomon reminds us of the truth that the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil.  He informs us of the many dangers of loving money.  Randy Alcorn paraphrases Ecclesiastes 5:10-15 and states:

• The more you have, the more you want.
• The more you have, the less you're satisfied.
• The more you have, the more people (including the government) will come after it.
• The more you have, the more you realize it does you no good.
• The more you have, the more you have to worry about.
• The more you have, the more you can hurt yourself by holding onto it.
• The more you have, the more you have to lose.
• The more you have, the more you leave behind.

Solomon encourages us once more to understand that the simple life, lived to the glory of God, is the best possible life.  Hard work, with enjoyment, is a gift from God.  So are the people who fill our lives.  God works in our lives in such a way, as we live to honor him, that brings contentment.

Evening:  Business meeting.