Weary, Stupid, and Foolish

I'm still making my monthly pilgrimage through Proverbs one chapter a day (except the months that don't have 31 days, then I read the remaining chapters on the last day of the month).  Although I have read it at least 28 times in the 2+ years I have been meditating through the book, it still amazes me how much I relate to Proverbs 30:1-4.  Agur states,

The man declares, I am weary, O God; I am weary, O God, and worn out.  Surely I am to stupid to be a man.  I have not the understanding of a man.  I have not learned wisdom, nor have I knowledge of the Holy One (Prov. 30:1b-3).

There are times in my life that I look at the struggles I am going through, and I wonder if anything has changed.  I am weary of failure.  I am weary of the status quo.  I am weary of sin making itself comfortable in this house that belongs to the Lord.  I am weary of my own stupidity when I find myself so quickly deceived by sin.

At times, I wonder if I have knowledge of the Holy One.  My heart seems so wicked.  It feels so prone to sin (particularly pride and selfishness).  Yet, God in his grace reminds me of how dark my heart used to be, of how dark it could still be were he not restraining me, and of how light it will be once Christ returns for his own.

As to my lack of wisdom, I cry out: "O Lord, who give generously to all who ask, teach my heart to walk in wisdom that I might honor you" (see James 1:5).  The darkness and dullness I perceive are not false, but they are not permanent either.  Although I have yet to experience its fullness, the righteousness of God rests on me, because I rest in Christ. 

I imagine, if I continue reading through Proverbs daily, that five years from now on some 30th of the month, I will read these words and completely relate to them.  I will still feel weary.  I will still feel to stupid to be a man.  I will still wonder what's wrong with me.  But even as I imagine that I know I will be a different person, because God, through the indwelling Holy Spirit, is still continuing to work in me. 

I know these things, because I can see the changes that have occurred in my heart and life in the last five years.  When I compare who I was 15 years ago, with the man I have become I see great changes.  But they aren't changes I have made, and most of them didn't happen over night.  These changes occurred as the Spirit applied God's Word to my heart and life.

I have been slow in adapting to the changes he has sought to bring about in my heart.  I have hindered and grieved him at many points.  I have been driven to repentance countless times, I have been cleansed of all unrighteousness, and I have been forgiven for the sake of Christ's blood.  When I am weary, I pray resting in the confidence that the Spirit will labor tirelessly to bring about God's will and purpose in my life.  When I see my need for wisdom, I pray for God to give me wisdom.  When I feel stupid, I ask God to enlighten my mind with his Word.

I'm pray for you readers, as I am reflecting on what I am writing.  I hope you can't relate to this passage, but my experience suggest that you can.  Maybe you are weary. Maybe you feel stupid for giving into sin yet again.  Maybe you feel foolish and undone.  Hang in there.  Even as we read Proverbs 30:1-4, we must remember that even as Agur says these things, he is saying them to the One he knows, knows all things.  Even as he despairs at his own lack of knowledge, he rests in the reality that God cares enough to hear him even if he is weary, stupid, and foolish.

Thoughts Concerning Noah's Ark

A children's song says, "Who built the Ark? Noah! Noah!, Who built the ark? Brother Noah built the ark."  It seems the story of the ark has left an indelible mark on the Christian imagination (as well as in the larger world).  It's not unusual to see toy arks filled pairs of animals poking their giant heads out of tiny windows. 

Now a group is claiming to have found Noah's Ark (like other groups before), and a lot of Christians are excited.  But skeptics are already disputing the claims.  This discovery and its rejection have a lot of people up in arms.  How should we respond?  Should we be excited that the "Ark" was discovered?  Should we be disappointed if it's a hoax?

Let me start by saying, I wasn't all that impressed by the news that Noah's Ark had been discovered.  First of all, it takes more than a 4,800 year old wooden structure trapped in ice to "prove" it was the Ark.  Second of all, we need to approach any so-called evidence with more scrutiny than anybody else.  Our faith doesn't rest on evidence.  Our faith rests in the God who has revealed himself through the Bible.

I believe that the story found in Genesis 6-9 actually reports historical fact.  I believe that one man and seven members of his family were spared, by the grace of God, from His judicious wrath.  I believe that the animals went into the ark, and that the world was covered with water.  But I don't believe it because because there is a drawer, a room, or a warehouse full of artifacts that support my belief.  I believe it because the inspired, infallible Word of God says it is true.  God cannot lie.

Don't misunderstand me, I do not believe blindly.  On the contrary, I, like the man in John 9, believe because once I was blind, but now I see (spiritually speaking).  God found me when I wasn't looking for him.  My dead heart was brought back to life, and faith sprang forth where there was once only doubt and disbelief. Although I still wrestle with doubt and fear, I am confident in God's Word.

His Word is truth, because He is Truth.  The Word is sufficient, because through it the Spirit brings life as he applies to the human heart.  Ephesians 2:1-3, tells us that we were once dead in our sins, but we have been made alive in Christ.  My faith, for it is mine, was a grace gift from God and I did not create it, nor do I sustain it.  God works faith, in and through me, by the indwelling presence of the Spirit.

Applying these principles to the current news stories surrounding Noah's Ark, I have no fears.  It would be cool if they found the ark, but it would "prove" anything to the skeptics.  For that matter, it would prove anything to believers.  It would simple confirm yet another aspect of the Bible's trustworthiness.

Put your unwavering trust in the Word of God, and then demand that any so-called evidences put forth to prove (or disprove) the Bible be put to the test.  And not just any test, but the most rigorous tests available.  Make sure they are backed up by independent sources.  Call for peer review, and multiple examinations.  Then and only then, give them some attention.  But remember, your faith will not be built by artifacts, rather it is built by reading, hearing, and obeying the Word of God.

Have they found the ark?  Maybe, but probably not.  Does that mean there wasn't an ark? No, definitely not.  Will the ever find the ark (for real)? Only God knows.  Can we really (really) trust his Word? YES! Without a doubt and without hesitation.  The most important thing we can do is look to the One whom the ark foreshadowed, Jesus.  Then like Noah coming into the ark, we must come to Christ in faith and flee the wrath that is coming.

Don't Fear the Beasts

"And it [the beast of the earth] was allowed to five breath to the image of the beast, so that the image might even speak and might cause those who would not worship the image of the beast to be slain.  Also it caused all, both small and great, both rich and poor, both free and slave, to be marked on the right hand or the forehead, so that no one can buy or sell unless he has the mark, that is, the name of the beast or the number of its name.  This calls for wisdom: let the one who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man, and his number is 666" (Rev. 13:15-16, ESV).

Revelation 13 has been the source of speculation and fear for generations.  Many have wonder who or what the sea beast and the earth beast are.  I also wonder: are they individuals (the anti-Christ and his prophet), institutions (an anti-Christ government and its anti-Christ religion), or some combination of the two?  I am not quite sure.  I lean toward a combination, but I think only God knows. 

But the identities of the beasts isn't what interests me.  I noticed something as I was rereading this passage, that I am not sure I have noticed before.  I noticed the little phrase: "It was allowed."  The beast was granted permission to carry on its dirty work, but by who?

Did the dragon (Rev. 12) give it permission?  No, the raging dragon doesn't give its minions permission, it commands them.  Did the sea beast give it permission?  No, the beast of the earth was acting in "all the authority" of the see beast (Rev. 13:12).  Who then gives the earth beast permission to go about his wicked deeds?

Simply put, God allows the beast to do these wonders.  You may be tempted to ask, "But, why?"  I cannot hope to answer that definitively, because the Lord has not told us.  What I know is that he is holy, just, and righteous.  All of his decisions are infinitely wise and right.  I know that in his mercy he can work all things to the good of those who love him and that are called according to his purposes (see Rom. 8:28).  I know that he can bring about great good, for his people and his own glory, out of the most horrible circumstances.

Having said all of that, let me say, I don't care why he permits it.  It doesn't concern me, because I know I can trust him, even when I don't understand him.  What matters to me, is that he has the authority to permit it.  To put it another way, Satan and his minions have no more power than God allows.  In all of their worst, they cannot overrun God's authority.  Let me be clear, God is not the author of sin, nor can he sin, nor be tempted to sin, but he can turn a sinful situation into a springboard for glory and good (think about the cross).

Tonight as I lay my head on my pillow, I will remind myself that God is in control.  He is sovereign; I am not, but neither is the devil.  The demonic realm may be powerful, but they are not in control.  Let them rage all they want, God cannot be dethroned!  If those demonic forces come against me to do me harm, they will do no more harm than he permits.  When it is all over, I'll still be in the Lord's hands, safe and secure.  There is an old hymn that brought me great comfort during our ordeal with Ellie.  It's opening line says,

"Whate'er my God ordains is right, holy His will abideth.
I will be still whate'er He does, and follow where He guideth."

May the Lord grant us the strength to live with such trust.  Whatever God ordains is right, his holiness guarantees it.  Why fear the beasts, when you know the One who holds their leash?  To God be the glory.

Thoughts on the Cycle of the Judges

"And the people of Israel did what was evil in the sight of the LORD and served the Baals. And they abandoned the LORD,the God of their fathers, who had brought them out of the land of Egypt.  They went after other gods, from among the gods of the peoples who were around them, and bowed down to them.  And they provoked the LORD to anger.  They abandoned the LORD an served the Baals and the Ashtaroth.  So the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel, and he gave them over to plunderers, who plundered them.  And he sold them into the hands of their surrounding enemies, so that they could not withstand their enemies.  Whenever they marched out, the hand of the LORD was against them for harm, as the LORD had warned, and as the LORD had sworn to them.  And they were in terrible distress" (Judges 2:11-15, ESV).

Thus begins the cycle of the Judges.  The cycle begins with the loss of godly leadership, then the people fall into rebellion and idolatry, then God sends and oppressor to oppress his people, the people cry out for deliverance, and God sends a deliverer who rescues the people.  The reality of the cycle of the Judges foreshadows the experience of humanity.


There is the loss of a godly leader: Adam falls into sin and death enters into the world.  Then his descendants fell into sin and idolatry.  God turned them over to the world, the flesh, and the devil.  Adam's descendants were sorely oppressed, and in need of deliverance.  God sent a deliverer, Jesus Christ.  Now, those who turn to Jesus find deliverance.


The great news is that Jesus' judgeship will never end.  He will reign forever.  The deliverance he brings is complete and eternal.  He has defeated our enemies through his cross. The cycle has been broken, because of Christ's presence within believers, through the Holy Spirit.  The Spirit is working obedience within us, conforming us into the image of Christ.  Although, we may not always see the results immediately, we can rest confidently in the reality that he will bring his good work to the proper conclusion.

FAQs Mondays: What Went Wrong?

"FAQs Mondays" is an ongoing series of posts based on an adaptation of The Baptist Catechism.  You can view the original documents from which it is drawn: here, here, and here.  Previous posts include: "the Introduction", "What Is the Chief End of Man?", "Who Is God?", "What is the Word?", "What is God?", and "How Does God Work within His Creation?". Reflecting on how God works within his creation drives us to ask, "If God created a perfect world, and has the ability to sustain it, what went wrong?".

Did our first parents continue in their original condition?

Our first parents having been left to the freedom of their own will, fell from the innocent condition in which they were created, by sinning against God by eating the forbidden fruit.  Genesis 3:1-7, recounts the events of the fall.  The serpent beguiles Eve into eating the forbidden fruit, and she in turn provokes Adam to eat.  When they ate, "The eyes of both were opened, and they knew they were naked.  And they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves loincloths" (Gen. 3:7, ESV).  Solomon shares his take on the situation with these words, "See, this alone I have found, that God made man upright, bu they have sought out many schemes" (Eccl. 7:29, ESV). Paul states, "Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all have sinned" (Rom. 5:12, ESV).  Thus, Adam's sin unlocked the doors of death and destruction upon all mankind.  But what is "sin?"

What is Sin?

Sin is any lack of conformity to, or transgression of, the law of God.  John states it succinctly, "sin is lawlessness" (1 John 3:4b, ESV).  Peter expresses what conformity looks like with these words: "Since it is written, 'You shall be holy, as I am holy'" (1 Pet. 1:16, ESV).  Thus, we are to be as holy as God is himself, and yet we are far from it.  Our lives are to be lived solely for the glory of God.  As Paul reminds us, "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God" (1 Cor. 10:31).  Yet, daily we fail to do so.  See also: Romans 5:13; 14:13; and Matthew 5:48.  Sin is disobedience to God, but how has Adam's sin affected us?

Did all mankind fall in Adam's first sin?

All mankind, descended from Adam by ordinary generation, sinned in him, and fell in his first sin.  Meditating on the effects of Adam's sin Paul states,

Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned . . . as on trespass led to condemnation for all men, so one act of righteousness leads to justification and life for all men.  For as by one man's disobedience the many were made sinners, so by one man's obedience the many will be made righteous. (Rom. 5:12, 18-19, ESV).

He also states, "For as by a man came death, by a man has come also the resurrection of the dead.  For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive" (1 Cor. 15:21-22).  It is clear from Scripture that Adam, as the appointed head of the human race, brought his descendants under the just condemnation of God by his sin.  So we have fallen with Adam, but what does that mean?

Into what condition did the fall bring mankind?

The fall brought mankind into a state of sin and misery.  David laments, "Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity, and in sin did my mother conceive me" (Ps. 51:5, ESV).  David is not lamenting the illegitimacy of his birth (because he wasn't illegitimate), but the fact that he is and always has been a sinner to the core.  He is expressing the reality that sin is nature. Isaiah states, "We all like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all" (Isa. 53:6).  See also: Romans 5:18-19; 7:18; Ephesians 2:1-3, and 1 Corinthians 2:14.  We are driven to inquire what does that state of sin look like?  And what about the state of misery?

What is the sinfulness of that condition into which all mankind has fallen?

The sinfulness of that condition into which man fell is the guilt of Adam's first sin, the lack of original righteousness, and the corruption of our whole nature (which is commonly called original sin), together with all actual transgressions which come from his nature.  Romans 3:10 sums it up, "None is righteous, no, not one."  Paul paints it in bleaker tones with these words:

And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience--among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind (Eph. 2:1-3, ESV).

This condition is at the core of humanity.  James says, "But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire" (Jam. 1:14; ESV).  But why?  Jesus declares, "For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander" (Matt. 15:19, ESV).

What is the misery of that condition into which all mankind has fallen?

All mankind, by their fall, lost communion with God, are under his wrath and curse, and so made liable to all the miseries of this life, to death itself, and to the pains of hell forever.  After the fall, Adam and Eve hid from God, and ultimately they were cursed and driven out of Eden (see Gen. 3:8, 24).  Paul tells us we are, apart from Christ, by our nature "children of wrath" (see Eph. 2:3).  Paul reminds us, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through our Lord Jesus Christ" (Rom. 6:23). Paul also reminds us that, as law breakers, we are under a curse.  He states, "For all who rely on works of the law are under a curse; for it is written, 'Cursed is everyone who does not abide by all things written in the Book of the Law, and do them'" (Gal. 3:10, ESV).  Of the wicked, Jesus states, "Then he [the King/Jesus] will say to those on his left [the goats/false believers], 'Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels' . . . and these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life" (Matt. 25:41-46, ESV). In this parable about the sheep and the goats, Jesus is speaking about his second coming and the judgment of the nations.  Within that context, the wicked are said to be consigned to hell for their lawless ways.

Conclusion

Adam's sin set into motion a chain of events that has brought his descendants into slavery to sin, death, and hell.  We inherit a sin nature from our ancestor, Adam, and a fallen environment which feeds our corruption.  But is that all she wrote?  Does the story end there?  That question is the one we will try to answer next Monday.

Sermon Recap 4-25-10

Morning: The sermon, "A Message for Wives," focused on the Ephesians 5:22-24.  In this passage, Paul expresses that women should submit to their husbands.  Paul urges them to place themselves under the authority of their husbands out of reverence to the Lord, because of the created order, and because of the person and work of Jesus.  They are to submit in everything that does not lead them into sin.

Evening:  We started our VBS clinics at 5:00 with a look a day 1's lesson theme, and we learned a couple of the songs.  As 6 we explored Psalm 139.

Saturday's Seven 4-24-10

Enjoy.

"Should I Tell My Child that He Was Conceived in Rape?" by Russell Moore.  Dr. Moore offers a good word for parents in this difficult situation.

"Seven Sure-fire Ways to Blow Up a Church" by Chuck Lawless.  This article looks at seven things that can divide a church.

"Lessons on Mentoring" by Thom Rainer.  This is a reminder that we should invest our time in new believers and young ministers.

"Dream Big and Dream Focused" by Dave Kraft.  This article is a call to come up with direction and focus in ministry.

"Why Religious Fervor Can't Bring Real Change" by J D Greer.  This article is a good reminder that only the gospel has the power to transform.

"On Blogging: Philosophy, Etiquette, and Strategery" by Dan Phillips.  These are helpful tips for bloggers to consider.

"Great Grace in the Small Things of Life" by Greg Lucas.  This article is a wonderful reminder of how God blesses us in every way.

Thoughts on Planning

I remember listing to Toby Keith’s “How Do You Like Me Now” when I was in high school and thinking, I want to big someday.  I think most of us have dreams of bigger and better things.  We want to become bestselling authors, famous singers/musicians, astronauts, high paid brokers, powerful politicians, or something else.  Unfortunately, most of us never see our dreams come to fruition.

There are several reason dreams fail; sometimes they fail because of a fear of failure, a lack of determination, an unwillingness to work hard, and a lack of careful planning. In this post, I want to focus on planning.

Goal setting has never been one of my strong points.  Even when I dreamed of being “big” someday, I never really thought about what that would look like.  I knew that I meant I wanted to be successful, but not necessarily in what way.  I knew I wanted to write, but I didn’t have any plans.

When we don’t plan, we fail to see the trees for the forest.  We have to start eat task with the right mindset.  The old question goes, “What’s the best way to eat an elephant?” The answer is, “One bite at a time.”  We have to take a larger task, and break it into smaller, measurable goals.

When you look at someone who is successful in any given field, what most often fills our vision is their success, not their struggle.  We assume that they got to where they are by luck, magic, or divine intervention.  We don’t see the difficult journey that brought them to where they are. We need to focus on the process that brought them to success which often includes planning, hard work, and perseverance; not just the end results.

When we make a plan, it helps us to track our progress.  It is easy to see if you are moving in the right direction.  When it comes to planning, it isn't much help to say something like, "I want to lose weight." Instead, we need to be specific, and say something like, "I would like to lose 35 pounds by my birthday."  Now you have something to aim at: 35 pounds, and a time frame to work in: the amount of time until your birthday.

We need to be realistic with our planning.  We need to be aware of what we can and what we cannot control.  If I say, "I will publish a book by the time I am 40," I am not being realistic, because I don't know if anyone will publish my book (supposing I wrote one).  But if a person says, "I am going to write a manuscript about  such-and-such, and submit it to five publishing houses this year," that is realistic.

My final thought on planning is this: don't just plan, act on it.  Once you have a plan, commit to follow it through.  Enlist the help of your family and friends to help see it through.  Let them see your goals, and let them help you refine them.  Show them your timetables and deadlines, and give them permission to check up on your progress.  Dream a dream, and work to live it out.

Brief Reflections on an Anonymous Prayer

Kay Anne Carson shares this prayer in, A Little Book of Cherished Poems: Beautiful Poetry to Treasure.

A Prayer Found in Chester Cathedral

Give me a good digestion, Lord

And also something to digest;

Give me a healthy body, Lord,

With sense to keep it at its best.

Give me a healthy mind, good Lord,

To keep the good and pure in sight;

Which, seeing sin, is not appalled, 

But finds a way to set it right.

Give me a mind that is not bored,

That does not whimper, whine or sigh;

Don't let me worry overmuch

About the fussy thing called "I."

Give me a sense of humor, Lord,

Give me the grace to see a joke;

To get some happiness from life,

And to pass it on to other folk.

Anonymous

Has there every been a writer more prolific than Anonymous? He or she has had some of the best stuff to say in every century.  All kidding aside, this prayer offers several helpful categories for us to think through. 

The author touches, not only on the aspect of our daily bread, but also on a healthy body.  He (I'll assume it was a man) asks for good digestion and food to digest, but also for a healthy body and the sense to keep it that way.

He prays for a healthy mind so that he can think God's thoughts after him.  He wants to keep the good and pure "in sight."

He also prays for the ability to overcome whining, complaining, and boredom.  Interestingly enough, he attributes these things to an overemphasis on the self.  His prayer, in part, is for deliverance from himself.

Finally, he desires a heart of good humor that can spread cheer to others.  The ability to spread cheer is a grace.

Although this isn't the best or most theological prayer I have ever read, I thought it was worthy of sharing.  It is also worthy of thinking about.  This poem looks to the redemption of the whole man for the purpose of fulfilling his God-given purpose.  The requests for food, a healthy body and mind, a deemphasis on self, and an ability to spread cheer are all means to the end of accomplishing God's purposes.

May this prayer spur you to pray your own.  Delight in the Lord and trust him to give you the desires of your heart.  Cry out to him, and you will find that he is listening.

Godly Grief

"For godly grief produces repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death" (2 Cor. 7:10, ESV).

The context surrounding this verse, Paul addresses the grief felt by the Corinthian church at his rebuke.  He wants them to be aware that his rebuke was meant to inflict sorrow.  He wounded them intentionally, but they were wounds meant to bring a greater healing.

The goal of his correction was godly grief.  He wanted them to come under the conviction of the Holy Spirit, and to be broken by their sin.  This kind of grief or sorrow produces "repentance that leads to salvation without regret."  Spirit applied rebuke works repentance in the heart.  Repentance in the heart transforms the life.  A transformed life abandons the practices that lead regret.

Paul contrast's godly grief with worldly grief.  Worldly grief never leads to repentance.  It may lead to guilt--even intense guilt, but it never moves a person to repentance.  They never change their mind; they never turn away from their grief to the living God.  They become paralyzed by their guilt, and often turn bitter.

Has anyone spoken a word of rebuke to you that cut you to the heart?  After meditating on their words, did you find yourself wanting to change?  Have you turned to Christ in repentance and faith, knowing that his blood has purchased your pardon and given you his righteousness?  Do those words of rebuke now spur you on toward obedience to Christ?  If so, you have experience godly sorrow, and it is working its fruit in your life.  If not, don't let your guilt eat at you any longer.  Call out to Christ and find forgiveness and cleanse.

Not So Fast, the Danger of a Hasty Vow

"It is a snare to say rashly, 'It is holy,' and to reflect only after making vows" (Prov. 20:25, ESV).

I have heard many people speak about the promises they made to God during difficult situations in their lives.  Many of these people have sought to honor those promises, but not everyone does.  I have know more than a few people who have been quick to promise, and slow to deliver.  I remember a particularly heated conversation I had with someone who told me that God didn't expect him to keep his promises, because God knew he could keep his promises.

However, the Scriptures don't support that avenue of thought.  In this verse, Solomon clearly teaches that only a fool gives no thought to his ability to keep his vow.  In a similar vein, Jesus warns those who would be quick to follow him to give it serious thought like they would if they were going to build a tower.  Foolish people make promises or commitments without counting the cost.

This proverb is a warning against hasty promises.  It is closely related to the call to let your "yes," be yes and your "no," be no.  As believers we are expected to make our word our bond.  When we speak, people should have full confidence that we are speaking the truth.  As I read this proverb, I keep wondering how many promises I have made to God (and others), and have broken.  Deep in my heart, I have this feeling that they are too numerous to count, although none springs to mind at this moment.

This verse should cause us to stop and reconsider the ease with which we make a promise (especially to God).  It should also cause us to reflect on our faithfulness to our vows.  So the next time you are tempted to make a vow to God: stop, think it over, count the cost, and should you make a vow, honor it.

Some closing thoughts:

• When you are in a difficult situation you don't need to give God anything to get his help.  The Lord abounds in tender mercies, and delights in answering the prayers of his people.  He also is will to save those who call on him as it is written: "Whosoever calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved" (Rom. 10:13).

• No matter how great the sacrifice you are making (or are willing to make) is you cannot obligate God.  God doesn't need anything; he is complete in himself.  We cannot put God in our debt.  Therefore, remember that whatever you promise will cost you, but will never place God in your debt.

• If you are overcome with gratitude at the Lord's gracious deliverance and desire to honor him, give careful thought to the best way to honor him.  Does depriving yourself of something you like or doing something you should already be doing really going to honor God?  Is God impressed by the fact that you promise not to eat another double cheeseburger, if he helps you get through your heart surgery?  Is he impressed with your promise to go to church every Sunday, when you should already be doing that?

• You have to ask the question, "Can I cover the check, my mouth is writing?".  Can you do what you promise to do?  If not, don't promise.  You'll only ensnare yourself.  God will expect full payment of your promise.  Just typing those words makes me uncomfortable, because they are true.

• If you make a vow to the Lord, be quick to fulfill it.  If you honor your commitment, God will honor you.  Don't forget that.  I encourage you to give careful thought when considering making a vow to the Lord.  After giving it careful thought, let your vows be few and far between.  But most importantly, let them be carried out with swiftness and joy.

FAQs Mondays: How Does God Work within His Creation?

"FAQs Mondays" is an ongoing series of posts based on an adaptation of The Baptist Catechism.  You can view the original documents from which it is drawn: here, here, and here.  Previous posts include: "the Introduction", "What Is the Chief End of Man?", "Who Is God?", "What is the Word?", and "What is God?".
Since we have previously explored the who and what of God, we will turn our attention to the how.  In this post, we will explore how God works within his creation.

What are the decrees of God?

The decrees of God are his eternal purpose according to the counsel of his will, whereby, for his own glory, he has foreordained whatsoever comes to pass.  The Psalmist sings, "Our God is in heaven, he does all that he pleases" (Ps. 115:3, ESV).  The Lord urges, "Remember this and stand firm, recall into mind, you transgressors, remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose'" (Isa. 46:8-10, ESV).  See also: Ephesians 1:4, 11-12; Romans 9:22-23; 11:36; Daniel 4:25, Lamentations 3:37, and Amos 3:6.

How does God execute his decrees?

God executes his decrees in the works of creation and providence.  As the living creatures sing, "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" (Rev. 4:11, ESV; see also Gen. 1:1). Concerning providence, Jesus says, "But I say to you, 'Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may by sons of your Father who is in heaven.  For he makes his sun rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust'" (Matt. 5:44-45, ESV; see also Matt. 6:26; Prov. 16:9, 33; 19:21; 20:24; 21:1, 31). Of God, Paul states, "Yet he did not leave himself without witness, for he did good by giving you rains from heaven and fruitful seasons, satisfying your hearts with food and gladness" (Acts 14:17, ESV).

What is the work of creation?

The work of creation is God's making all things out of nothing, by the word of his power, in the space of six normal consecutive days, and all very good.  The author of Hebrews reminds, "By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible" (Heb. 11:3, ESV; see also Gen 1:1-31; Ex. 20:11; Rom. 4:17).

How did God create man?

God created man, male and female, after his own image, in knowledge, righteousness, and holiness, with dominion over creatures.  Genesis 1:26-27 states:

Then God said, "Let us make man in our image, after our likeness.  And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth." So God created man in his own image, in the image of god he created them; male and female he created them. (See also: Colossians 3:10; Ephesians 4:24)

What are God's works of providence?

God's works of providence are the most holy, wise, and powerful acts by which he preserves and governs all his creatures, and all their actions.  Nehemiah prays, "Your are the LORD, you alone.  You have made heaven, the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the earth and all that is on it, the sea and all that is in them; and you preserve all of them; and you and the host of heavens worships you" (Neh. 9:6; ESV).  David proclaims, "The LORD is righteous in all his ways and kind in all his works" (Ps. 145:17, ESV). See also Psalms 103:19; 104:24; Isaiah 2:29; Matthew 10:29-31; Hebrews 1:3, and Colossians 1:17.

What special act of providence did God exercise toward man when he was first created?

When God had created man, he entered into a covenant of life with him upon the condition of perfect obedience; forbidding him to eat of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, upon pain of death.  Genesis 2:15-17 states,

The LORD God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it.  And the LORD God commanded the man saying, "You may surely eat of every tree in the garden, but the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day you eat of it you shall surely die." (See also Galatians 3:12; 5:12).

Conclusion

These questions and answers help us to see that God works, in accordance with his decrees (what he determined would happen), through creation and providence.  However, these questions lead us to ask: if God created a "good creation" and governs his creation with wisdom, holiness, and power, what went wrong?.  Next week, we will look at how the Baptist Catechism resolves that question.  I encourage you continue to place your trust in the Creator and Preserver, our Lord Jesus Christ, who sustains us by his grace for his glory.

Sermon Recap 4-18-10

Morning: We were blessed to take part in Gideon Rally Day here at Monticello.  We had a great speaker who  shared some exciting testimonies about people who have received Christ through the Gideons' ministry.  I also preached, "Not Ashamed of the Gospel," from Romans 1:16-17.

Paul states he is not ashamed of the gospel.  He is not embarrassed of the message.  He has no reluctance in preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ.

In these verses, Paul sets forth two reason that he was not ashamed of the Gospel.  He was not ashamed of the gospel because it is the power of God for salvation to every on who believes.  He was not ashamed because the gospel reveals a righteousness from God, that is by faith from first to last.

Paul is confident that the gospel will transform lives as it is preached.  He is confident that true righteousness will be experience by those who trust in Christ.

Evening:  We compared the Baptist Faith and Message 1963 and 2000.  We looked at The Kingdom (IX), Last Things (X), Evangelism and Mission (XI), and Education (XII).

Saturday's Seven 4-17-10

I encourage you to check out these links:

When Adoption Fails, the Gospel is Denied by Albert Mohler.  A good word (actually several good words).

Pray for Russia's Orphans by Russell Moore.  A call for prayer in light of the situation surrounding the woman who sent her son back to Russia.  May God grant a soften among Russia's officials and unite the nearly 3000 families whose adoptions are in limbo.

A Birthday Letter to My Son by Greg Lucas. A very touching letter from a father to his disabled son.

Our Happy God by David Murray.  A reminder of how imitating God can bring us happiness.

Pastor, You're Probably Fat: 6 Things to Do About It by John Catanzaro. Ouch!  Total Gym here I come.

How I Pastor My Family by Justin Hyde.  This is excellent advise for parents how want to disciple their children.

Together for the Gospel 2010 Audio Links by Various. I was bless to be at the T4G conference this year.  The music was amazing, the speakers were thought provoking and soul stirring, and they gave us 20 free books.  My mind is still reeling.  It was like Christmas in April.

Worthy of Thought

"The light of the eyes rejoices the heart, and good news refreshes the bones.  The ear that listens to life-giving reproof will dwell among the wise" (Prov. 15:30-31, ESV).

Father in Heaven,

 grant me 

eyes that see and

 ears that hear,

 that I may dwell in wisdom

 for your glory.

 Amen.

Confidence at the Crossroads of Life

Do you ever have the feeling that you are at a crossroads in your life?  It may be that the deep inside of you a tempest of doubt is raging.  Maybe you feel drained of passion or hope.  Maybe you feel that you have completely botched your life, and you want to consign the last several years of your life to a dustbin somewhere.  Even if you can't identify the cause, you recognize the fact that you are facing a turning point.

At a fork in the road, where the destination of either path is unknown, it is often easy to allow fear to paralyze you.  What if you make the wrong choice?  What if the path your chose is too hard?  What if? What if? What if? is always the refrain.

The message of the gospel strips fear of its power.  Fear preys on your natural inclinations; it manipulates your inherent paranoia. Fear is a lie sculpted in barbwire.  It snags you deep in the soul, and embeds itself deep.  Fear manifests itself in various ways in different people.  Most of us fear something, but the gospel uproots all lies.

This uprooting doesn't always happen overnight.  As we grow and mature, the Spirit enables us to see more place we need to apply the gospel in our lives.  He continually moves us to not only persevere in the faith, but to advance in it.  As the Spirit brings about growth in us, he reveals to us areas that are still not under Christ's lordship.

When we find ourselves at a crossroads in our life, it is wise to ask if this is the Spirit's way of bringing us more fully under the lordship of Christ.  The crossroads should be a place of intense prayer and contemplation, they should never be a place of fear.

The gospel teaches us that we are always accepted before God the Father, through Christ Jesus the Son, as demonstrated by the Spirit's presence in our life.  God loves us: not for what we can do for him (he doesn't need anyone or anything), not because of what we do for him, but simply because that is who God is.  If we take the wrong turn, whether in misguided faith or in disobedience, God will correct our path.  We are his because he is pleased to delight in us.  With this in mind, let us face the crossroads of our life with confidence in God's undeniable love and step out in faith.

Wise Teaching at T4G

"The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, that one may turn away from the snares of death" (Prov. 13:14, ESV).

I have the privilege of being at the 2010 Together for the Gospel (T4G) conference this week.  Today, I have heard powerful messages from Mark Dever, R. C. Sproul, and Albert Mohler.  Each one, in his own way, has faithfully reminded us (attendees) to rightly understand and teach the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Time and again, we have heard the speakers say the gospel is about Jesus and his work.  They have continually exhorted us to believe and preach/teach the Scriptures.  Their messages affirm and encourage gospel laborers who are pursuing the glory of God.

Because of these reasons, their words are fountains of life.  This year the theme for the T4G conference is "The Unadjusted Gospel."  So far the sessions have demonstrated ways in which individuals and churches make adjustments to the gospel.  Each speaker has sounded a clear call for their hearers to make certain that they rightly understand the gospel, and in turn rightly teach it.

In light of Paul's admonition in Galatians 1:6-9, the call to biblical fidelity and gospel clarity is of the utmost importance.  If we preach an adjusted gospel, we are to be condemned, because we condemn our hearers.  If faith comes by hearing the message of Christ (and it does), then preaching something other than the message of Christ cannot generate faith in the hearer.

I am looking forward to tomorrow when I will hear teaching from more wise men, and drink deeply from their fountains of life.  I pray that their words will turn back those who are stumbling toward error.  I pray that through this time I will experience a renewed heart for gospel ministry.  I also pray that God would be glorified through this conference.

FAQs Mondays: What Is God?

As we remember that the Scriptures mainly teach what is to be believed concerning God and the duty he requires of man, we are driven to ask what the Bible teaches about God.  This post will explore the nature of God. Remember, these question and the italicized portions are from an adaptation of the Baptist Catechism.

What is God?

God is a Spirit, infinite, eternal, and unchangable in his being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice, goodness, and truth. Jesus instructs, "God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth" (John 4:24, NIV). Ethan the Ezrahite sang of the Lord, "Righteousness and justice are the foundations of your throne; love and faithfulness go before you" (Ps. 89:14, NIV).  As another Psalmist reminds us, "Great is our Lord and mighty in power; his understanding has no limit" (Ps. 147:5, NIV). Paul prayed, "Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen" (1 Tim. 1:17, NIV).

Are there more gods than one?

There is only one living and true God.  As the LORD said through Moses, "Hear, O Israel: the LORD our God, the LORD is one.  Love the LORD your God will all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength" (Deut. 6:4-5, NIV).  The Psalmist proclaims, "For great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; he is to be feared above all the gods.  For all the gods of the nations are idols, but the LORD made the heavens" (Ps. 96:4-5, NIV).  Jeremiah exclaims, "But the LORD is the true God; he is the living God, the eternal King.  When he is angry, the earth trembles; the nations cannot endure his wrath" (Jer. 10:10, NIV).

How many persons are in the Godhead?

There are three persons in the Godhead: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; and these three are one God, the same in essence, equal in power and glory. Jesus' command to baptize forces us to contemplate the Godhead.  He states, "Therefore go 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, NIV).  Paul demonstrates the deity of the Father when he says,"Yet for us there is but one God, the Father, from whom all things came and we live; and there is but one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things came and through whom we live" (1 Cor. 8:6, NIV).  John reminds us of the deity of Christ when he says, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.  He was with God in the beginning . . . The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth" (John 1:1-2, 14; see also Col. 2:9, Heb. 1:3).  Luke demonstrates the deity of the Holy Spirit in Acts 5:3-4, when he records that Peter equates lying to the Holy Spirit with lying to God (see also 1 Cor. 2:11).

Conclusion

We serve the eternal, immortal, invisible, Triune God, who is holy, righteous, all-wise, all-knowing, and all-powerful.  We have only glimpsed the smallest portion of his glorious nature, and we must remember that God is inexhaustible in his perfections.  Next Monday, we will look at questions the help us to understand the works of God.  Until then we pray with Paul, "May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all" (2 Cor. 13:14, NIV).

Sermon Recap 4-11-10

Morning: The sermon, "The Father's Will," explored Isaiah 53:1-12.  In this passage, the Lord speaks of his Servant who would suffer to take away his people's sins.  This passage reveals to us an important truth about the cross: Jesus' death was the Father's will.  Isaiah 53:10, tells us it was the Lord's will to crush him.  He was crushed so that our sin could be justly punished, and his righteousness could by justly applied to us.  Two implications drawn from the passage were: Jesus' obedience makes us acceptable to the Father and by faith in Christ, we should passionately pursue the Father's will.

Evening: Business meeting.

Saturday's Seven 4-10-10

Seven Basic and Brief Pointers for Writers by Douglas Wilson.  The title explains it all.

Disconnecting Distractions by Paul Graham.  Helpful advice for overcoming procrastination, don't put off reading it.

How I Read a Book by Tim Challies.  Insights from a prolific reader.


What Was the Treasure of Scripture Knowledge? By Fred Sanders. This article is a helpful reminder of a useful Bible Study tool.

Deacons Are Shock Absorbers by Various (9Marks).  An ejournal about deacon ministry.


How Do I Disciple a New Christian Who Does Not Read or Write Well? Brian Croft. A very practical approach to helping new believers, who can't read well, learn the faith.

Failure: The Last Taboo? by David Murray.  A healthy approach to learning from our failures.

The Trouble with Anxiety

"Anxiety in a man's heart weights him down, but a good word makes him glad" (Prov. 12:25, ESV).

It is a dangerous thing to give into anxiety.  Anxiety strips the heart of its strength. It causes the colors of life to fade.  Anxiety forces us to fixate on potentialities.  We play games like "what-ifs" and "if-onlys," and in the end our time is wasted by the games we play.

Anxiety only makes sense in a world without a sovereign God.  Once we acknowledge that God is sovereign, we must realize he is in control.  Providence is a term that applies to the practical outworking of God's sovereignty within history.  When we speak of providence, we speak of God's unseen hand that moves history along toward the appointed consummation.

Anxiety suggests that we do not believe (trust) in God's sovereignty, or that we believe him to be in control, but untrustworthy.  Anxiety exists because we are unconvinced of God's ability to care for us, his willingness to help us, or both.

I need to say here that anxiety and concern, while related, are not the same thing.  We may be concerned with situation, because we cannot see all ends, yet still trust that God is in control.  However, anxiety is absence of trust.  The anxious person doesn't know how things will unfold, but they are certain it won't be good.

Friends, anxiety will weigh you down.  Put your trust in the Lord.  He has demonstrated that he is willing and able to save you.  Be still and know He is God.

Hear Instruction

"Hear instruction and be wise, and do not neglect it" (Prov. 8:33, ESV).

I find the same themes reoccur in my life. When I read the Word, it speaks to my need for instruction. My heart yearns to be wise, yet I feel far from wise. Instruction seems so hard to receive.

My heart wants the freedom to be foolish. It wants to cast off restraints and rebel against wisdom. My heart despises discipline. Yet, somewhere in the deep recesses of my heart there is a yearning for order amid the chaos.

A voice cries out in the wilderness of my heart, "Prepare the way of the Lord." And God's grace restrains me. The Spirit applies these calls to instruction to my heart. My "ears" are opened and I "hear." Listen to instruction and you will be wise. But wise for what?

If we hear the Lord's instructions, we will be wise in his service. We must not neglect his instruction, for to neglect it is to despise. If we recognize the instruction of the Lord as the treasure it is, then we will be willing to leverage everything to own it.

If only we would listen to the voice of wisdom, and heed instruction, then we would be wise. If only we would pursue wisdom with diligence, then we would obtain it. How my heart yearns for wisdom. Does your heart for wisdom, too?

Determining the Will of God, Pt. 2

In my last post, I began looking at discerning God’s will.  The initial step in discerning God’s will is understanding and obeying God’s commands.  The commands form the boundaries and the foundation for our faith walk.  We can be sure we are to evangelize, pray, tithe, etc.  We can also be sure that we shouldn’t lie, steal, cheat, etc.  But what about other decisions?  How do we know what to do when there isn’t a clear command or prohibition?

If our first question is, “What does the Word say?, then our next question should be, “Is it wise?.”  Wisdom is the art or skill of living a life that pleases God.  Wisdom not only recognizes the commands and prohibitions of Scripture, but it also recognizes the other principles in the Word.  As we learn how to apply the Word to life, that is to put it into practice, then we grow in wisdom.

The last question we must ask ourselves is “Do I want to do this?.” There is some prevailing wisdom that suggests that God only desires for us to do what displeases us.  That is to say, some people think that if you don’t want to do it that must mean God is going to make you do it.  As I have heard someone say, “Don’t pray that God wouldn’t send you to Africa or that is where he will send you.”

When we desire to do what pleases the Lord, he gives us the desires of our hearts.  In a decision, that doesn’t concern a specific command or principle that guides us, we have follow our sanctified hearts.  For example, we have two jobs that we have to choose between.  Neither job violates the law of God, and both jobs will provide you with the ability to provide for your family.  How do you decide?  This is the place where we have to ask ourselves, “Which one would I enjoy more?”

This simple, three-fold approach to determining the will of God, frees us to make decisions based on faith.  It makes us dependent upon the Word of God, and frees us to respond in faith.  In faith, we can know that what God has commanded us; he will enable us to do.  In faith, we can know that as we apply God’s Word to our lives, we will walk in wisdom.  By faith, we can know that stepping out in faith to glorify God, and enjoying the opportunities God sends our way. 

Determining the Will of God, Pt. 1

"My son, keep your father's commandments, and forsake not your mother's teaching.  Bind them on your heart always; tie them around your neck.  When you walk, they will lead you; when you lie down, they will watch over you; and when you awake, they will talk with you.  For the commandment is a lamp and the teaching a light, and the reproofs of disciplines are the way of life" (Prov. 6:20-24, ESV).

How do determine to do the will of God?  This passage offers us a good starting point for understanding how to determine the will of God.  The first point we need to know when trying to determine the will of God is that we must know what God has commanded.

If we are to do the will of God, we must know what he has commanded us to do and what not to do.  If we know that God says, "Be fruitful and multiply," then we don't really need to question whether or not we need to live a fruitful life.  We have been commanded to be productive (and reproductive), so while we may have questions about how exactly that applies to our lives, we can have no doubts that it does apply to our lives.  When God says, "You shall not lie," then we can know that God does not will for us to lie.

Thus, knowledge of the commandments liberates us to do the right things.  The first step in doing God's will is doing what he has commanded.  We must do what he says.  As we walk in obedience, we will learn more of his will.  In the future, we will look at the next two steps of doing God's will: walking in wisdom, and following our (sanctified) hearts.

FAQs Mondays: What Is the Word?

In our quest to understand how we can achieve our ultimate reason for existence, to glorify God and to enjoy him forever, we have uncovered an important reality.  That reality is that although the creation and man’s conscience point us to the Creator, God is only effectually revealed to us, for our salvation, by the Word of God and the Spirit.  In this post we will look at the Word.

What is the Word of God?

The Word of God is the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, given by divine inspiration, and the Word is the only infallible rule of faith (doctrine) and practice (obedience).  As Paul reminds Timothy, “All Scripture is breathed out by God, and is profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness” (2 Tim. 3:16).  Paul also reminds us that we are “built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone” (Eph. 2:20).  Here Paul is referencing the message of Christ revealed through the apostles and prophets.

Thus, when we speak of the Word of God we mean the 66 books now commonly known as the Protestant Bible.  Although, calling it the “Protestant” Bible is a bit of a misnomer.  These 66 books are the same that Athanasius listed as the official canon in the fourth century.  These books our only “infallible,” that is, it is our only sure and trustworthy guide for doctrine and practice.  But how do we the Bible is the Word of God?

How do we know the Bible is the Word of God?

The Bible evidence itself to be God’s word by the heavenliness of its doctrine, the unity of its parts, and its power to covert sinners and edify saints.  But only the Spirit of God can make us willing to agree and submit to the Bible as the Word of God.  The Bible says of itself, “The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple; the precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is pure enlightening the eyes; the fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; the rules of the LORD are you true, and righteous altogether” (Ps. 19:7-9, ESV).  It is “living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions” (Heb. 4:12, ESV).

Paul warns, “The natural [unconverted] person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned” (1 Cor. 2:14, ESV).  Thus, not everyone who reads the Bible will “get it.”  Although all of us suffer spiritual blindness before we come to know Christ, the Spirit can give us spiritual eyes.   Does that mean only believers can read the Bible?

May all men make use of the Holy Scripture?

All men are not only permitted, but commanded and encouraged to read, hear, and understand the Holy Scripture. The Bible is to be read and enjoyed by all.  Why are we expected to read it?

What do the Scriptures mainly teach?

The Scriptures teach what man is to believe concerning God, and what duty God requires of man.  Solomon concluded, “The end of the matter, all has been heard.  Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man” (Eccl. 12:13, ESV).  Paul adds, “Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus” (2 Tim. 1:13, ESV).

Conclusion

The Word of God teaches us about God and how to please him.  The Bible gives us the pattern by which we are to live in order to please the Lord.  Next Monday we will look at what the Bible teaches us about God.

Sermon Recap 4-4-10

Sunrise:  During the sunrise service we looked at 1 Corinthians 15:12-22.  The message focused on the importance of Christ's resurrection.  If Christ isn't raised, then our faith is in vain.  But Christ has been raised.  Christ's resurrection secures our justification, gives meaning to this life, and gets us ready for the next life.

Morning:  The sermon, "Demonstrated God's Love," was an exposition of Romans 5:6-8.  In this passage, Paul reminds us that God's love has been demonstrated in Christ's death for the sinner.  Christ's death was timely, both in the sense that it was when God ordained it would happen and that it came when the need was the greatest.  

Christ's death was for the ungodly who were powerless.  They were powerless in their ability to change.  They were powerless in their ability to obey.  They were powerless, enslaved to sin, and blinded by Satan.  They were godless in the sense that they lived their lives without reference to God.  God's law and his will did not factor into their lives.

Paul contrasts the willingness of people to die for someone they deem worthy with God's willingness to send his Son to die on behalf of his enemies.  God's love for humanity is demonstrated in the death of Christ.  Christ laid down his life the sinner, his enemy, in order that they might share in his life and righteousness.  He didn't wait for people to get their lives straightened out, because he new they were powerless to do so.  He didn't wait for people to love God, because they were powerless to do so.  He didn't wait for people to seek him, because they were powerless to do so.  He died for them--in their place, for their sin--while they were still his enemies. What amazing love this truly is!

Saturday's Seven

I hope these articles inform, encourage, and enlighten you.  Check them out, and let me know what you think.  

Read More, Read Better by Tim Challies.  As the "to read" pile in my office continues to grow, I find myself looking for ways to get more read.  This article offers helpful tips from a seasoned reader.

Is Your Church Losing Blood? by Russell Moore.  This articles points out a trend of moving away from singing about the blood of Christ.

Jesus Isn’t Ashamed of You by Russell Moore.  This every encouraging article is a reminder that Christ isn't ashamed to call us his brothers.  

Of First Importance—The Cross and the Resurrection at the Center by Albert Mohler. This article drives home the truth of the importance of the death and resurrection of Christ.

Wisdom, Complexity, and Chilling the Heck Out by Kevin DeYoung.  I like DeYoung's word on wisdom.  This article is a helpful reminder that we must continually exercise discernment.

The Letter by Billy Coffey.  This article relates a serious warning about assuming the gospel, and the danger of assuming the salvation of our loved ones.

Off Centered, Off Key, Off Balanced by Kissie.  This article reminds us that we need to reorient our thinking sometimes, and realize that God's help we can accomplish whatever he wills.

On A Hill Far Away

"And he went out, bearing his own cross, to the place called the place of the skull, which in Aramaic is Golgotha.  There they crucified him, and with him two others, one on either side, and Jesus between them" (John 19:17-18, ESV).

The events that surrounded the death of Jesus seem so far removed, both by time and space, from the events of our life.  Many are asking, "How can the death of one man, nearly 2000 years ago, still matter?".  Many men (and women) died long before Christ Jesus came and dwelt among us, and many have died in the time since his crucifixion.

Why is Jesus' life and death any different?  Jesus' life is different for many reasons, and his death if different, too. First, before he took on the human flesh, and became the God-man Jesus, the Son of God existed eternally with God the Father and God the Holy Spirit.  Second, God the Son took on human flesh.  Thirdly, he was/is fully God, and fully man.  Fourthly, Jesus didn't have to die, because he was without sin; he died voluntarily. Fifthly, Jesus' death secured pardon from sin for all those who trust him.  Finally, Jesus didn't just die; he rose from the dead on the third day.

Jesus' death still matters because of his resurrection.  The resurrection means that Jesus is still alive.  It means he is sovereign over the whole creation.  The events that lead up to the execution of Christ are still relevant today because they force us to make a decision.  They demand a response.

If Jesus just died, how did the disciples go from cowardice to courage?  If Jesus just died, how did Christianity take root in Jerusalem, the city outside of which Christ was crucified, just fifty days after his death?  If Jesus just died, how was Christianity able to spread over the known world in just a few short years?  If Jesus just died, how did a former persecutor of the church, Saul of Tarsus, become a preacher of the gospel he formerly despised?  If Jesus just died, why did the apostles all accept death and refuse to deny their risen Lord?  The answer is to all of these questions is simply, Jesus didn't just die.  He arose on the third day.  He is ascended into heaven, and he will return again some day.

The hill on which he died may seem far away, but King Jesus is always near.  The cross where he died still bridges the gap between God and man.  Anyone who turns to Jesus will never be cast out.  Have you gone, in faith, to that hill far away, and found freedom through the old rugged cross?

Don't Be Fooled

"The fool says in his heart, 'There is no God.' They are corrupt, they do abominable deeds, there is none who does good" (Ps. 14;1, ESV).

April Fool's Day seems like the perfect time to tackle the foolishness of denying God.  It smacks of arrogance to claim, with the limited amount of knowledge that humanity possesses, that there is no evidence of God's existence.

Everywhere there are signs of design.  The heavens declare the glory of the Lord.  Mankind is fearfully and wonderfully made. There is so much information within the natural world.  It is ludicrous to believe that information came from no where.

David alludes to the reason they deny God.  They deny God because their hearts want the freedom to operate outside of their consciences.  They don't want to be condemned for doing the things they enjoy.  If they don't acknowledge the Lawgiver, it's easier to rationalize their guilt away.

When we live like there is no God, we are only fooling ourselves.  God is there, whether we acknowledge him or not.  He will not always be patient, one day we will all stand before him in Judgment.  If we are trusting Christ, he has stood in our place in judgment.  If we have not trusted in Christ, we will stand alone in judgment.  Don't be fooled by fine sounding, empty arguments.  God is real, and he has made a way through Jesus for mankind to know him.