Meditation is imagining the action involved in carrying out the command. For example, imagine what would happen if you were Peter or Andrew and heard Jesus’ call to follow Him and be made a fisher of men. There is a principle here.
Jesus will take our talents and skills and transform them for eternal achievement. This is what He did with Matthew’s experience as a tax collector. Matthew teaches more about money in his Gospel than any other writer. The same principle is true with David; his shepherding skills were transformed by God into tools with which to shepherd, or care for, the whole nation of Israel. The skills he used for the sheep were applied to taking care of people. “So he [David] fed them according to the integrity of his heart; and guided them by the skilfulness of his hands” (Psalm 78:72). However, before God can use our skills, something must happen.
God will use whatever we bring to Him, but it must first be transformed by an action on our part. That action is demonstrated by the rod of Moses.
When God called Moses to follow Him back to Egypt and deliver the nation of Israel from bondage, He asked Moses to cast down his rod. That rod represented his skill and livelihood as a shepherd. The rod became a snake and was so terrifying that Moses fled from it. What a precise picture of personal skills and abilities that are not dedicated to God.
Once the rod was given to God and seen in a totally new light by Moses, God told him to pick it up. When he did, it was transformed into a new rod. No longer was it referred to as the rod of Moses, but rather the rod of God, and with it God was able to accomplish great and mighty deeds, which brought much glory to Him.
God will not use our skills or abilities, but He will transform them into His skills and abilities when we place them at His feet.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Closeness: Becoming A Member Of The Inner-Circle
The crowds followed Jesus, but only those closest to Him heard the rich teaching He gave along the way. There were others who followed Him from afar. (See John 19:38.) John followed Jesus as closely as he could. As a result, John heard rich truths, which he shares in his writings.
Closeness is determined by how well we can hear Jesus speak to us, and this ability is determined by how much we meditate on His Word day and night.
John was one of the three who were in Jesus’ “inner circle.” He was with Jesus on the Mount of Transfiguration and on the mount of Calvary. He sat right next to Jesus at the Last Supper and wanted to sit next to Him in His kingdom. Because of this very close relationship, John shared truths from Jesus that are found in no other gospel or epistle.
For example, John recorded the secret of intimate fellowship and effective discipleship through meditation on the commands of Christ. “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him” (John 14:21). John further emphasized the importance of meditation when he wrote, “If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you” (John 15:7).
Secrets bind the spirits of people together. Jesus wants to share His secrets with us, but we must follow closely to hear them.
Does your walk with Jesus allow Him to whisper secrets to you, or does He have to shout to get your attention? The more you meditate on Christ’s words, the closer your walk with Him will be!
Closeness is determined by how well we can hear Jesus speak to us, and this ability is determined by how much we meditate on His Word day and night.
John was one of the three who were in Jesus’ “inner circle.” He was with Jesus on the Mount of Transfiguration and on the mount of Calvary. He sat right next to Jesus at the Last Supper and wanted to sit next to Him in His kingdom. Because of this very close relationship, John shared truths from Jesus that are found in no other gospel or epistle.
For example, John recorded the secret of intimate fellowship and effective discipleship through meditation on the commands of Christ. “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him” (John 14:21). John further emphasized the importance of meditation when he wrote, “If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you” (John 15:7).
Secrets bind the spirits of people together. Jesus wants to share His secrets with us, but we must follow closely to hear them.
Does your walk with Jesus allow Him to whisper secrets to you, or does He have to shout to get your attention? The more you meditate on Christ’s words, the closer your walk with Him will be!
Faithful To The End
The invitation to follow Jesus is no small matter. The more we follow Him, the more we will become like Him. Imagine what this will mean for daily success! We will multiply our wisdom, because Jesus is ultimate wisdom, and “he that walketh with wise men shall be wise” (Proverbs 13:20).
We will also gain the rare quality of creativity that is so essential to success, because Jesus is the Creator. (See John 1:3.) Most of all, we will grow in the character of Christ, because He is the perfect expression of all the character qualities of God.
In addition to all of these benefits, there is something even more exciting.
Those who follow Jesus can receive a “double portion” of His power if they fulfill one important requirement. Do you know what it is?
Many heroes of faith accomplished greater things than the one they followed because they fulfilled this one prerequisite.
Samuel served Eli and then accomplished greater things than Eli.
Joshua served Moses and then accomplished what Moses failed to do.
David served Saul and achieved greater victories than Saul.
Elisha served Elijah and got a double portion of his power.
Each one of these men remained faithful until the end. Elijah explained this prerequisite when Elisha asked him for a double portion of his power. “…If thou see me when I am taken from thee, it shall be so unto thee….” (II Kings 2:10).
Jesus made the same stipulation when He said to His disciples, “Ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved” (Matthew 10:22). The word saved is the Greek word sozo, which can refer to physical, emotional, or spiritual vibrancy. During the ministry of Jesus, many disciples became offended and stopped following Him, but Jesus said of those who remained faithful:
“…The works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father” (John 14:12).
The faithful disciples had a double portion of Jesus’ power because the Holy Spirit was sent to them. And, through the mighty power of the Holy Spirit, they accomplished great things for God. Let’s purpose now to follow their example by faithfully following Jesus until the end.
We will also gain the rare quality of creativity that is so essential to success, because Jesus is the Creator. (See John 1:3.) Most of all, we will grow in the character of Christ, because He is the perfect expression of all the character qualities of God.
In addition to all of these benefits, there is something even more exciting.
Those who follow Jesus can receive a “double portion” of His power if they fulfill one important requirement. Do you know what it is?
Many heroes of faith accomplished greater things than the one they followed because they fulfilled this one prerequisite.
Samuel served Eli and then accomplished greater things than Eli.
Joshua served Moses and then accomplished what Moses failed to do.
David served Saul and achieved greater victories than Saul.
Elisha served Elijah and got a double portion of his power.
Each one of these men remained faithful until the end. Elijah explained this prerequisite when Elisha asked him for a double portion of his power. “…If thou see me when I am taken from thee, it shall be so unto thee….” (II Kings 2:10).
Jesus made the same stipulation when He said to His disciples, “Ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved” (Matthew 10:22). The word saved is the Greek word sozo, which can refer to physical, emotional, or spiritual vibrancy. During the ministry of Jesus, many disciples became offended and stopped following Him, but Jesus said of those who remained faithful:
“…The works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father” (John 14:12).
The faithful disciples had a double portion of Jesus’ power because the Holy Spirit was sent to them. And, through the mighty power of the Holy Spirit, they accomplished great things for God. Let’s purpose now to follow their example by faithfully following Jesus until the end.
On The Move: The Disciple As A Strangers And A Pilgrims
Those who heard the call to follow Jesus understood that it meant forsaking their way of life and being trained by Him as a disciple.
This is consistent with God’s call to Abraham. Abraham was told to leave his land, kindred, and father’s house and follow the Lord to a land of promise. In the process, he learned the mind-set of a tent-dweller. When Abraham’s descendants went down to Egypt (symbolic of the world), they lost their tent perspective. Soon the pressure of their bondage caused them to cry out to God for deliverance.
God brought them “out of the house of bondage” (see Deuteronomy 13:5) and restored their perspective of tent dwelling in the wilderness. God also lived with them in a tent (the Tabernacle) and had them look to heaven for their daily bread and daily direction. In the land of promise they lived in goodly houses, but God warned them never to lose their tent mind-set. So, He established an annual feast in which they would live in a tent for one week and be reminded of their total dependence upon God. (See Leviticus 23:34.)
A tent mind-set is realizing that this world is not our home and that we are on a holy pursuit of God’s kingdom with total dependence on Him as “strangers and pilgrims.”
Peter speaks of this mind-set as a powerful basis for conquering lust: “Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul” (I Peter 2:11).
A tent mind-set helps us lay aside temporal things and see the value in eternal things, such as discipling others. Therefore, when a would-be follower of Jesus volunteered his services, Jesus immediately focused on his need for a tent mind-set by saying, “The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head” (Matthew 8:20). There is nothing wrong with living in a house as long as we don’t lose a tent mind-set and view our home as a temporary base from which to fulfill the Great Commission.
This is consistent with God’s call to Abraham. Abraham was told to leave his land, kindred, and father’s house and follow the Lord to a land of promise. In the process, he learned the mind-set of a tent-dweller. When Abraham’s descendants went down to Egypt (symbolic of the world), they lost their tent perspective. Soon the pressure of their bondage caused them to cry out to God for deliverance.
God brought them “out of the house of bondage” (see Deuteronomy 13:5) and restored their perspective of tent dwelling in the wilderness. God also lived with them in a tent (the Tabernacle) and had them look to heaven for their daily bread and daily direction. In the land of promise they lived in goodly houses, but God warned them never to lose their tent mind-set. So, He established an annual feast in which they would live in a tent for one week and be reminded of their total dependence upon God. (See Leviticus 23:34.)
A tent mind-set is realizing that this world is not our home and that we are on a holy pursuit of God’s kingdom with total dependence on Him as “strangers and pilgrims.”
Peter speaks of this mind-set as a powerful basis for conquering lust: “Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul” (I Peter 2:11).
A tent mind-set helps us lay aside temporal things and see the value in eternal things, such as discipling others. Therefore, when a would-be follower of Jesus volunteered his services, Jesus immediately focused on his need for a tent mind-set by saying, “The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head” (Matthew 8:20). There is nothing wrong with living in a house as long as we don’t lose a tent mind-set and view our home as a temporary base from which to fulfill the Great Commission.
Keeping A Journal: The Disciple's Record
How often have we heard these words “Write it down or you’ll forget it”? If that is true for our daily efficiency, how much truer is it for the treasures of our experiences with God’s Word?
One of the greatest heritages that you could pass on to your descendants is a written account of your walk with God. The struggles and trials that you experienced and the steps that you took to overcome them will be a tremendous resource to those who follow you.
When you begin keeping a written record of your experiences, you will become much more alert to the people and events that affect your life. You will learn how to be precise with words and ideas. The result will be a greater ability to communicate truth with others, and this is an important foundation for daily success.
One of the greatest heritages that you could pass on to your descendants is a written account of your walk with God. The struggles and trials that you experienced and the steps that you took to overcome them will be a tremendous resource to those who follow you.
When you begin keeping a written record of your experiences, you will become much more alert to the people and events that affect your life. You will learn how to be precise with words and ideas. The result will be a greater ability to communicate truth with others, and this is an important foundation for daily success.
Meditation: The Disciples Handling The Word Of God
The secret of effective meditation is quoting Scripture back to God with the spirit rather than the mind. This means that rather than trying to intellectually understand God’s truth, we discern it by His Spirit speaking to our spirit because “the things of the Spirit of God … are spiritually discerned” (I Corinthians 2:14).
If we evaluate Scripture with the mind we tend to become proud, because “knowledge puffeth up,” but if Scripture “evaluates” the heart, we become humble because it exposes our secret sins.
By coming to Scripture with our spirit, we cry out, “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” (Psalm 139:23–24).
Your spirit has direct access to God’s Spirit, because “God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth” (John 4:24). The Spirit of God has direct access to the conscience and is able to activate it with the spiritual understanding of what is right and what is wrong as we meditate upon His truth. It is this intimate fellowship of Spirit-to-spirit communication that constitutes true meditation and results in daily success.
Scripture is “the wisdom of God” and is given to us “in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world.” God determined that this wisdom would be “unto our glory.” However, it is revealed to us only “by his Spirit for the Spirit searcheth all things: yea, the deep things of God” (I Corinthians 2:7–10).
Our natural inclination is to simply quote Scripture back to God as a mental or intellectual exercise. This will rob us of the riches of God’s wisdom and the joy of His fellowship. Therefore, we must bring the mind under the control of God’s Spirit with a definite act of the will.
If we evaluate Scripture with the mind we tend to become proud, because “knowledge puffeth up,” but if Scripture “evaluates” the heart, we become humble because it exposes our secret sins.
By coming to Scripture with our spirit, we cry out, “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” (Psalm 139:23–24).
Your spirit has direct access to God’s Spirit, because “God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth” (John 4:24). The Spirit of God has direct access to the conscience and is able to activate it with the spiritual understanding of what is right and what is wrong as we meditate upon His truth. It is this intimate fellowship of Spirit-to-spirit communication that constitutes true meditation and results in daily success.
Scripture is “the wisdom of God” and is given to us “in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world.” God determined that this wisdom would be “unto our glory.” However, it is revealed to us only “by his Spirit for the Spirit searcheth all things: yea, the deep things of God” (I Corinthians 2:7–10).
Our natural inclination is to simply quote Scripture back to God as a mental or intellectual exercise. This will rob us of the riches of God’s wisdom and the joy of His fellowship. Therefore, we must bring the mind under the control of God’s Spirit with a definite act of the will.
Me, Myself, And I: The Disciple and Pride
One day the president of a successful real estate company stood before his sales staff of about one hundred. After presenting several new properties, he stated, “My success story has been written up in a national business magazine. If you would like a copy, just see my secretary.”
A lightning bolt of dismay and tension struck the staff. Angry looks were exchanged, and murmuring began: “Who does he think he is?! We are the ones that made this company successful! It is our success story, not his.”
That very afternoon, several of his top salesmen quit and formed their own company. Soon there was not enough money to close contracts, so the president used money from other escrow accounts, which is a federal offense. Within six months, the once-successful company was dissolved, and the president began serving a prison sentence, all because of the lack of one character quality—humility.
Pride is the sin that God hates the most and punishes the swiftest. Pride caused Satan and a third of the angels to be cast out of heaven. Pride was the cause of Adam and Eve’s dismissal from the Garden of Eden. It is also the cause of our unrepentance over sin, which keeps God from blessing us with riches, honor, and life. “Pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way … do I hate” (Proverbs 8:13). God resists the proud and so do people. That is why conflicts are stirred up, because “only by pride cometh contention” (Proverbs 13:10).
Pride is putting ourselves on an equal level with God. It is reserving for ourselves the right to decide what is right or wrong. Our pride is what put Jesus on the cross. We are just like those who said, “We will not have this man reign over us.”
Pride is projecting on the outside what is not true on the inside. Today, let’s conquer this primary hindrance to daily success by humbling ourselves before a holy God and making things right with all those whom we have offended.
A lightning bolt of dismay and tension struck the staff. Angry looks were exchanged, and murmuring began: “Who does he think he is?! We are the ones that made this company successful! It is our success story, not his.”
That very afternoon, several of his top salesmen quit and formed their own company. Soon there was not enough money to close contracts, so the president used money from other escrow accounts, which is a federal offense. Within six months, the once-successful company was dissolved, and the president began serving a prison sentence, all because of the lack of one character quality—humility.
Pride is the sin that God hates the most and punishes the swiftest. Pride caused Satan and a third of the angels to be cast out of heaven. Pride was the cause of Adam and Eve’s dismissal from the Garden of Eden. It is also the cause of our unrepentance over sin, which keeps God from blessing us with riches, honor, and life. “Pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way … do I hate” (Proverbs 8:13). God resists the proud and so do people. That is why conflicts are stirred up, because “only by pride cometh contention” (Proverbs 13:10).
Pride is putting ourselves on an equal level with God. It is reserving for ourselves the right to decide what is right or wrong. Our pride is what put Jesus on the cross. We are just like those who said, “We will not have this man reign over us.”
Pride is projecting on the outside what is not true on the inside. Today, let’s conquer this primary hindrance to daily success by humbling ourselves before a holy God and making things right with all those whom we have offended.
Overcome 1 John 5:4
In my most favorite book on the planet; (Sparkling Gems From The Greek) Rick Renner says the following.
The word "overcometh" is the Greek word nikos. It means to conquer. It was used to portray athletes who had gained the mastery of the competition and ultimately reigned supreme as champions over the games.
The Holy Spirit was careful in His selection of this word nikos. This word communicates vivid images that pertain to our walk of faith and victory. First, it tells us that when we begin the walk of faith, we enter into a real-life competition. The decision to walk by faith puts us right smack dab in the center of the ring where the contest immediately begins.
This is so important to understand, because too often we wrongly presume that if we walk by faith, we will be removed from all problems. But our faith pits us directly opposite the devil's powers. He hates our faith because he knows what it can do! For this reason, Satan may try to go for a knock-out punch. But even if he knocks us flat, he can't keep us down on the ground!
The apostle Paul testified to this when he said that he was "...cast down, but not destroyed" (2 Corinthians 4:9). One translation says, "We occasionally get knocked down, but never get knocked out!" Those who are born of God have the supernatural ability to keep getting up again, no matter how many times they fall! Remember, John wrote, "For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world."
Because the word "overcometh" is the Greek word nikos, it tells us that we are the ultimate champions and describes our superior position as children of God over the world. We are fully armed with everything we need to be super-conquerors in this life!
Overcome (nikao) means to conquer, to be victorious or to prevail in the face of obstacles. Romans 3:4 (note) speaks of God prevailing as in a legal accusation against Him!
Overcome describes the quality of a true saint who may stumble and fall but who God always picks up and he continues onward and upward in the power and motivation of the victory Christ has won for us on the Cross.
In Webster's American Dictionary of the English language (1828) overcome means to conquer; to vanquish; to subdue; as, to overcome enemies in battle. To surmount; to get the better of; as, to overcome difficulties or obstacles. To gain the superiority; to be victorious.
There are 28 uses on nikao in the NT (4 verses use nikao twice) - Lk 11:22; Jn 16:33; Ro 3:4; Ro 12:21; 1Jn 2:13; 4:4; 5:4, 5; Rev. 2:7, 2:11, 2:17, 2:26; 3:5, 3:12, 3:21; 5:5; 6:2; 11:7; 12:11; 13:7; 15:2; 17:14; 21:7
The word "overcometh" is the Greek word nikos. It means to conquer. It was used to portray athletes who had gained the mastery of the competition and ultimately reigned supreme as champions over the games.
The Holy Spirit was careful in His selection of this word nikos. This word communicates vivid images that pertain to our walk of faith and victory. First, it tells us that when we begin the walk of faith, we enter into a real-life competition. The decision to walk by faith puts us right smack dab in the center of the ring where the contest immediately begins.
This is so important to understand, because too often we wrongly presume that if we walk by faith, we will be removed from all problems. But our faith pits us directly opposite the devil's powers. He hates our faith because he knows what it can do! For this reason, Satan may try to go for a knock-out punch. But even if he knocks us flat, he can't keep us down on the ground!
The apostle Paul testified to this when he said that he was "...cast down, but not destroyed" (2 Corinthians 4:9). One translation says, "We occasionally get knocked down, but never get knocked out!" Those who are born of God have the supernatural ability to keep getting up again, no matter how many times they fall! Remember, John wrote, "For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world."
Because the word "overcometh" is the Greek word nikos, it tells us that we are the ultimate champions and describes our superior position as children of God over the world. We are fully armed with everything we need to be super-conquerors in this life!
Overcome (nikao) means to conquer, to be victorious or to prevail in the face of obstacles. Romans 3:4 (note) speaks of God prevailing as in a legal accusation against Him!
Overcome describes the quality of a true saint who may stumble and fall but who God always picks up and he continues onward and upward in the power and motivation of the victory Christ has won for us on the Cross.
In Webster's American Dictionary of the English language (1828) overcome means to conquer; to vanquish; to subdue; as, to overcome enemies in battle. To surmount; to get the better of; as, to overcome difficulties or obstacles. To gain the superiority; to be victorious.
There are 28 uses on nikao in the NT (4 verses use nikao twice) - Lk 11:22; Jn 16:33; Ro 3:4; Ro 12:21; 1Jn 2:13; 4:4; 5:4, 5; Rev. 2:7, 2:11, 2:17, 2:26; 3:5, 3:12, 3:21; 5:5; 6:2; 11:7; 12:11; 13:7; 15:2; 17:14; 21:7
Overtake 1Thess. 5:4
Amplified: But you are not in [given up to the power of] darkness, brethren, for that day to overtake you by surprise like a thief. (Amplified Bible - Lockman)
NLT: But you aren't in the dark about these things, dear brothers and sisters, and you won't be surprised when the day of the Lord comes like a thief. (NLT - Tyndale House)
Phillips: But because you, my brothers, are not living in darkness the day cannot take you completely by surprise. After all, burglary only takes place at night! (Phillips: Touchstone)
Wuest: But as for you, brethren, you are not in darkness, that the day shall come down upon you as a thief, (Eerdmans)
Young's Literal: and ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day may catch you as a thief
Overtake (katalambano from katá = adds intensity [or surprise as in 1Th 5:4] to the meaning of the verb + lambáno = take) means to take eagerly, grasp with force, lay hold of, seize with hostile intent (this literal meaning vividly depicted by the demon who seizes the son and dashed him to the ground in Mark 9:18). Katalambano was used in the sense of laying hold of so as to gain control of. In a secular Greek use we read "they were pursued and overtaken."
Katalambano was used in secular Greek of evils seizing with hostile intent, coming upon or overtaking someone. The Greeks also used katalambano of darkness coming upon a person. Jesus uses katalambano with this sense (speaking of spiritual darkness).
John 1:5 And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it. Here katalambano can mean either either "comprehend" mentally, or "seize hold of" with hostile intent.
Amplified = [put it out or absorbed it or appropriated it, and is unreceptive to it].
ASV = apprehended it not
BBE = not overcome by the dark
Darby = apprehended it not
ESV = apprehended it not
GNT = has never put it out
ISV = has never put it out
KJV = the darkness comprehended it not
NAB = has not overcome it
NET = has not mastered it
NIV = has not understood it
NJB = has not mastered it
NLT = can never extinguish it
Phillips = has never put it out
Weymouth (and NCV) = has not overpowered it
Wuest = did not overwhelm it
Rick Renner writes, The word "comprehended" is the Greek word katalambano. It is a compound of the words kata and lambano. The word kata carries the force of something that is dominating or subjugating. The word lambano means to seize or grab hold of. When the two words are compounded, they mean to seize, to pull down, to tackle, to conquer, or to hold under one's power. Therefore, this verse could be translated, "Darkness does not have the ability to suppress or to hold the light under its domain."
This doesn't mean that darkness won't attempt to overcome the light. However, its efforts will be frustrated and unsuccessful because the light of God always prevails, even in what seems to be the darkest hour or the bleakest situation. Darkness simply doesn't have the power or ability to put out God's light. Since you are a child of the light (Ephesians 5:8), this means darkness doesn't have the ability to put out your light either!
John 1:5 makes it absolutely clear that darkness does not have the ability to suppress or to hold the light under its domain. Darkness may try to prevent the light from shining, but it never holds back the light permanently. Eventually it always comes shining through.
This is true of you and your dream, vision, or calling as well. You may feel hindered from time to time in your attempts to fulfill the call God has given you, but don't despair. Those hindrances won't last long. The only way the devil can steal your dream, vision, or calling is if you surrender to him first! If you hold on and refuse to give up, your faith will overcome every encumbrance the devil tries to set in your path!(Sparkling Gems From The Greek)
NLT: But you aren't in the dark about these things, dear brothers and sisters, and you won't be surprised when the day of the Lord comes like a thief. (NLT - Tyndale House)
Phillips: But because you, my brothers, are not living in darkness the day cannot take you completely by surprise. After all, burglary only takes place at night! (Phillips: Touchstone)
Wuest: But as for you, brethren, you are not in darkness, that the day shall come down upon you as a thief, (Eerdmans)
Young's Literal: and ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day may catch you as a thief
Overtake (katalambano from katá = adds intensity [or surprise as in 1Th 5:4] to the meaning of the verb + lambáno = take) means to take eagerly, grasp with force, lay hold of, seize with hostile intent (this literal meaning vividly depicted by the demon who seizes the son and dashed him to the ground in Mark 9:18). Katalambano was used in the sense of laying hold of so as to gain control of. In a secular Greek use we read "they were pursued and overtaken."
Katalambano was used in secular Greek of evils seizing with hostile intent, coming upon or overtaking someone. The Greeks also used katalambano of darkness coming upon a person. Jesus uses katalambano with this sense (speaking of spiritual darkness).
John 1:5 And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it. Here katalambano can mean either either "comprehend" mentally, or "seize hold of" with hostile intent.
Amplified = [put it out or absorbed it or appropriated it, and is unreceptive to it].
ASV = apprehended it not
BBE = not overcome by the dark
Darby = apprehended it not
ESV = apprehended it not
GNT = has never put it out
ISV = has never put it out
KJV = the darkness comprehended it not
NAB = has not overcome it
NET = has not mastered it
NIV = has not understood it
NJB = has not mastered it
NLT = can never extinguish it
Phillips = has never put it out
Weymouth (and NCV) = has not overpowered it
Wuest = did not overwhelm it
Rick Renner writes, The word "comprehended" is the Greek word katalambano. It is a compound of the words kata and lambano. The word kata carries the force of something that is dominating or subjugating. The word lambano means to seize or grab hold of. When the two words are compounded, they mean to seize, to pull down, to tackle, to conquer, or to hold under one's power. Therefore, this verse could be translated, "Darkness does not have the ability to suppress or to hold the light under its domain."
This doesn't mean that darkness won't attempt to overcome the light. However, its efforts will be frustrated and unsuccessful because the light of God always prevails, even in what seems to be the darkest hour or the bleakest situation. Darkness simply doesn't have the power or ability to put out God's light. Since you are a child of the light (Ephesians 5:8), this means darkness doesn't have the ability to put out your light either!
John 1:5 makes it absolutely clear that darkness does not have the ability to suppress or to hold the light under its domain. Darkness may try to prevent the light from shining, but it never holds back the light permanently. Eventually it always comes shining through.
This is true of you and your dream, vision, or calling as well. You may feel hindered from time to time in your attempts to fulfill the call God has given you, but don't despair. Those hindrances won't last long. The only way the devil can steal your dream, vision, or calling is if you surrender to him first! If you hold on and refuse to give up, your faith will overcome every encumbrance the devil tries to set in your path!(Sparkling Gems From The Greek)
Monday, May 30, 2011
Repentance: The Disciples Turn-Around
Repentance is a change of mind, a change of heart, which produces a new direction or a new way of living. Repentance is not flawless perfection. Repentance is a 180° turn. You were headed in one direction then you turn around and head in the opposite direction. Repentance is turning from someone (self, satan), and turning toward God.
One of the greatest examples of repentance is found in Luke 15:11-24. It's the story of the Prodigal Son. The Prodigal headed one direction (away from his family, friends, home, and his father). The direction he chose led him into a "far country" and ultimately into a pig pen. Luke informs us; that while feeding the swine, he came to himself. He realized he had gotten completely off track. He then changed his mind (repented) and headed back home with a brand new attitude.
Repentance can be summed up by the words of Jesus, "FOLLOW ME!" (Mt. 4:19; 8:22; 9:9; 16:24; 19:21; Mk. 2:14; 8:34; 10:21; Lk. 5:27; 9:23,59; 18:22; Jn. 1:43;; 10:27; 12:26; 21:19). To follow Jesus one must exit the road he's traveling and travel in a new direction.
The evidence of strong emotion is not an indication of true repentance. Weeping sometimes indicates a person is sorry he got caught doing something wrong, but it doesn't necessarily indicate a change of heart and mind. (See Heb. 12:17).
Repentance is for both the unbeliever and the child of God. The unbeliever repents of his sin thereby entering into a relationship with God. He become their Heavenly Father and they become His children. The believer on the other hand repents primarily of his dead works (Heb. 6:1). Of course, if a believer sins, he needs to repent of them as well.
Why did Esau fail to find repentance for simply selling his birthright even though he sought it desperately with tears. Esau’s repentance was faulty because he did not understand true repentance. He was a profane fornicator (see Hebrews 12:16–17), and he simply wanted to regain the blessings that he had lost (see Genesis 25:33–34).
However, when David was confronted with his sin, he repented for the right reason. He wanted to restore fellowship with God. If we repent for any other reason than this we are not experiencing true repentance. (See Psalm 51.)
James describes sincere repentance by calling for our laughter to be turned to mourning and our joy to be turned to heaviness. He exhorts us to cleanse our hands of past sins and purify our hearts of double-mindedness. (See James 4.)
The rewards of true repentance are not only a clear conscience and restored fellowship with God, but also a Godly heritage for our children and grandchildren. The failures of parents can affect children for generations to come, as in the case of Abraham.
QUESTION: In what specific areas do you need to change your mind (repent)?
One of the greatest examples of repentance is found in Luke 15:11-24. It's the story of the Prodigal Son. The Prodigal headed one direction (away from his family, friends, home, and his father). The direction he chose led him into a "far country" and ultimately into a pig pen. Luke informs us; that while feeding the swine, he came to himself. He realized he had gotten completely off track. He then changed his mind (repented) and headed back home with a brand new attitude.
Repentance can be summed up by the words of Jesus, "FOLLOW ME!" (Mt. 4:19; 8:22; 9:9; 16:24; 19:21; Mk. 2:14; 8:34; 10:21; Lk. 5:27; 9:23,59; 18:22; Jn. 1:43;; 10:27; 12:26; 21:19). To follow Jesus one must exit the road he's traveling and travel in a new direction.
The evidence of strong emotion is not an indication of true repentance. Weeping sometimes indicates a person is sorry he got caught doing something wrong, but it doesn't necessarily indicate a change of heart and mind. (See Heb. 12:17).
Repentance is for both the unbeliever and the child of God. The unbeliever repents of his sin thereby entering into a relationship with God. He become their Heavenly Father and they become His children. The believer on the other hand repents primarily of his dead works (Heb. 6:1). Of course, if a believer sins, he needs to repent of them as well.
Why did Esau fail to find repentance for simply selling his birthright even though he sought it desperately with tears. Esau’s repentance was faulty because he did not understand true repentance. He was a profane fornicator (see Hebrews 12:16–17), and he simply wanted to regain the blessings that he had lost (see Genesis 25:33–34).
However, when David was confronted with his sin, he repented for the right reason. He wanted to restore fellowship with God. If we repent for any other reason than this we are not experiencing true repentance. (See Psalm 51.)
James describes sincere repentance by calling for our laughter to be turned to mourning and our joy to be turned to heaviness. He exhorts us to cleanse our hands of past sins and purify our hearts of double-mindedness. (See James 4.)
The rewards of true repentance are not only a clear conscience and restored fellowship with God, but also a Godly heritage for our children and grandchildren. The failures of parents can affect children for generations to come, as in the case of Abraham.
QUESTION: In what specific areas do you need to change your mind (repent)?
Sunday, May 29, 2011
The Disciple's Thought Life
Have you ever noticed the day you decided not to do a certain thing is the day you couldn't stop thinking about it? Maybe you decided to go on a diet, but all you could think about was food. Or perhaps you've been upset over something someone said about you. You chose to forgive him for what he said, but the very day you made that decision all you can think about is what he said.
Thoughts are powerful because they are precursors to actions. Everything you've ever done in your life was first conceived in your mind. That's why learning to control our minds and replace bad thoughts with something good is important.
Think of your mind as a battle ground but not as a playground. Your mind is something you should take very seriously because it's the place where victories are either won or lost. If you treat your mind as just a place to play and have fun, you'll open the door to the enemy and he'll take advantage you leading you into defeat, discouragement, and ultimately into disobedience. The devil is like the park "bully" who go's around picking on other kids.
You may not be able to control what comes into your mind, but you can control what stay there! God considers your thoughts so important He actually made a list for you to compare them with so that you don't go off in the ditch on either side of the road. (See Phil. 4:8).
Be assured that you can control your thoughts. How do I know this? The Bible instructs us to bring "every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ" 2 Cor. 10:5. Yes, sometimes this is easier said than done, but it's not impossible and it's absolutely necessary if you really want victory.
The questions becomes, what do you use to combat thoughts? The answer: WORDS! Words are stronger than thought. If you start talking, your mind will shut up to hear what it is you're saying. If you don't believe it, try counting money while someone yells different numbers. You'll soon lose track and before long you have to start over.
Personally there are several things I do when when I need to bring my thoughts into captivity.
First, I speak to the thought and inform it that it's not welcome. I might say something like, "discouragement you were not invited and you're certainly not welcome, so in the name of Jesus be gone now!"
Second, I will use the scripture as a weapon against particular thoughts. If thoughts of fear attempt to enter my mind I will say something like this. "Fear, I take authority over you in Jesus name! According to the Word, I've not be given a spirit of fear so I resist you and command you to go now."
The bottom line is: you believe what you say more than you believe what anybody says! If this is true, then the most important thing you could say is what God says. If you'll say what God says, your faith will increase and develop making a huge difference in your life. Faith only develops one way. "Faith comes by hearing the Word of God" (Rom. 10:17).
Jesus defeated the devil with words. In fact, He used the Word of God and cut the him to pieces. (See Matt. 4).
QUESTION: Can you relate a circumstance when you spoke the Word of God and gained victory over your thoughts?
Thoughts are powerful because they are precursors to actions. Everything you've ever done in your life was first conceived in your mind. That's why learning to control our minds and replace bad thoughts with something good is important.
Think of your mind as a battle ground but not as a playground. Your mind is something you should take very seriously because it's the place where victories are either won or lost. If you treat your mind as just a place to play and have fun, you'll open the door to the enemy and he'll take advantage you leading you into defeat, discouragement, and ultimately into disobedience. The devil is like the park "bully" who go's around picking on other kids.
You may not be able to control what comes into your mind, but you can control what stay there! God considers your thoughts so important He actually made a list for you to compare them with so that you don't go off in the ditch on either side of the road. (See Phil. 4:8).
Be assured that you can control your thoughts. How do I know this? The Bible instructs us to bring "every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ" 2 Cor. 10:5. Yes, sometimes this is easier said than done, but it's not impossible and it's absolutely necessary if you really want victory.
The questions becomes, what do you use to combat thoughts? The answer: WORDS! Words are stronger than thought. If you start talking, your mind will shut up to hear what it is you're saying. If you don't believe it, try counting money while someone yells different numbers. You'll soon lose track and before long you have to start over.
Personally there are several things I do when when I need to bring my thoughts into captivity.
First, I speak to the thought and inform it that it's not welcome. I might say something like, "discouragement you were not invited and you're certainly not welcome, so in the name of Jesus be gone now!"
Second, I will use the scripture as a weapon against particular thoughts. If thoughts of fear attempt to enter my mind I will say something like this. "Fear, I take authority over you in Jesus name! According to the Word, I've not be given a spirit of fear so I resist you and command you to go now."
The bottom line is: you believe what you say more than you believe what anybody says! If this is true, then the most important thing you could say is what God says. If you'll say what God says, your faith will increase and develop making a huge difference in your life. Faith only develops one way. "Faith comes by hearing the Word of God" (Rom. 10:17).
Jesus defeated the devil with words. In fact, He used the Word of God and cut the him to pieces. (See Matt. 4).
QUESTION: Can you relate a circumstance when you spoke the Word of God and gained victory over your thoughts?
Friday, May 27, 2011
The Disciple And Knowledge Of The Word
The most pitiful people; in my opinion, are those who cannot or-- for reasons unknown to me-- will not stand up and speak out by giving a biblical and relevant defense of their faith when questioned by others. I believe it's important to know what you believe and why you believe it. Then be able to give an articulate and reasoned response to those around you. For example, how would respond to someone who asks, "How do you know Christianity is true?" How would answer the person who expresses that they need evidence for the existence of God?
C.S. Lewis was right when he argued, the question is not if you will defend the faith, but will you defend it well. Peter said is well when he stated, "be ready always to give an answer to every man that asks you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear" 1Pet. 3:15.
The word "answer" is the Greek word "apologia," and refers to a legal defense. It's a compound of the words apo and logos. Apo meaning, back, and logos meaning word. When compounded, it means to answer back and depicts a reply, a response, or an answer. The word was us to describe a court trial where the accused was given the opportunity to give a respond or an answer to the charges brought against him. (Sparkling Gems, by Rick Renner p. 926).
As a disciple (a learner) it's very important to be a student of the Word. Paul instructed Timothy to study to show himself approved and to rightly divide the Word of truth (2 Tim 2:15). Again referring to the Believers living in Berea Paul said they "were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily (Acts 17:11).
There are at least three reasons to be a student of the Word.
1. According to Matt. 4:4, Heb. 5:11-14 the Word is spiritual food the follower of Christ. Just like your natural body depends on food to sustain itself and survive, your spiritual body requires food for growth and survival.
2. Your enemy; the devil, attempts everything within his power to keep you from receiving revelation from the Word because he knows the Word of God is a weapon (a sword) you can use against him. See Eph. 6:10-18. Your knowledge of the Word is what equips you for battle and the application of that knowledge is what insures your success and victory against the forces of darkness.
3. If you interact with people; especially unbelievers, your knowledge and understanding of the Word will equip to give a reasoned response to their questions.
C.S. Lewis was right when he argued, the question is not if you will defend the faith, but will you defend it well. Peter said is well when he stated, "be ready always to give an answer to every man that asks you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear" 1Pet. 3:15.
The word "answer" is the Greek word "apologia," and refers to a legal defense. It's a compound of the words apo and logos. Apo meaning, back, and logos meaning word. When compounded, it means to answer back and depicts a reply, a response, or an answer. The word was us to describe a court trial where the accused was given the opportunity to give a respond or an answer to the charges brought against him. (Sparkling Gems, by Rick Renner p. 926).
As a disciple (a learner) it's very important to be a student of the Word. Paul instructed Timothy to study to show himself approved and to rightly divide the Word of truth (2 Tim 2:15). Again referring to the Believers living in Berea Paul said they "were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily (Acts 17:11).
There are at least three reasons to be a student of the Word.
1. According to Matt. 4:4, Heb. 5:11-14 the Word is spiritual food the follower of Christ. Just like your natural body depends on food to sustain itself and survive, your spiritual body requires food for growth and survival.
2. Your enemy; the devil, attempts everything within his power to keep you from receiving revelation from the Word because he knows the Word of God is a weapon (a sword) you can use against him. See Eph. 6:10-18. Your knowledge of the Word is what equips you for battle and the application of that knowledge is what insures your success and victory against the forces of darkness.
3. If you interact with people; especially unbelievers, your knowledge and understanding of the Word will equip to give a reasoned response to their questions.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
FREE FREE FREE RIGHT AND WRONG THINKING BY KENNETH HAGIN
FOR EVERYONE WHO FOLLOWS OUR BLOG AND REQUESTS A COPY, WE WILL E-MAIL A PDF COPY OF "RIGHT AND WRONG THINKING," BY BRO. KENNETH E. HAGIN. YOU CAN CONTACT US AT faithmanmurphy@gmail.com. OFFER ENDS 5/31/11 at noon.
Following Christ: The Disciples Journey
According to the dictionary, a "follower" is "someone accepts the leadership of another." A second definition is, "someone who travels behind or pursues another." What an awesome description of a disciple.
Three things are clear from the above definitions.
1. A disciple willingly accepts the leadership of Christ. A leader is someone who rules, guides, and inspires others. Jesus is our ruler, our guide, and our inspiration. This can only be true however, for those who accept and submit to Him.
2. A disciple positions himself behind Christ. He never intends to push himself out ahead of Him. If he finds himself in a forward position he will quickly humble himself by positioning himself in his proper place: following.
3. A disciple is always in hot pursuit of his Lord. Pursuing Christ requires a continual focus and attention on Him. It means never looking back. If one looks back, he's not fit to be a disciple. The children; while in the wilderness, looked back toward Egypt on several occasions. Let it not be said of a follower of Christ that they looked back to their life before they received Christ.
Let's examine several Greek words and see if we can glean some truths that we can apply to our personal walk with Christ.
1. The Greek word used in Matt 9:27-30 for the English word followed is akoloutheo and means, "to follow someone or something in a very determined manner." Even though two men were blind and couldn't see where they were going, they were determined to to follow Christ until they got His attention. Their determination was evidenced in their crying. This word means "to, scream, yell, exclaim, or cry out at the top of one's voice."
2. In 1 Cor. 14:1 Paul encourages the church and even you and I to follow after love. The Greek word used here is dioko, and means "to hotly pursue." It was used to describe a hunter following the tracks of an animal until he finally catches his game.
3. 2 Thess. 3:7 uses the word mimeomai, an old Greek word for an actor or mimic and it implies "an intentional study of the life, deeds, actions, and thoughts of another person in an attempt to fully understand that person then to replicate his attributes in one's own life." Paul uses the Greek word mimetes in Eph. 5:1 which means, "to imitate someone," or "to mimic what you see someone else doing." It was also used to describe actors or performing artists who acted on a stage as a profession.
QUESTION: Based on the above information, in what specific ways can you follow the Lord.
Three things are clear from the above definitions.
1. A disciple willingly accepts the leadership of Christ. A leader is someone who rules, guides, and inspires others. Jesus is our ruler, our guide, and our inspiration. This can only be true however, for those who accept and submit to Him.
2. A disciple positions himself behind Christ. He never intends to push himself out ahead of Him. If he finds himself in a forward position he will quickly humble himself by positioning himself in his proper place: following.
3. A disciple is always in hot pursuit of his Lord. Pursuing Christ requires a continual focus and attention on Him. It means never looking back. If one looks back, he's not fit to be a disciple. The children; while in the wilderness, looked back toward Egypt on several occasions. Let it not be said of a follower of Christ that they looked back to their life before they received Christ.
Let's examine several Greek words and see if we can glean some truths that we can apply to our personal walk with Christ.
1. The Greek word used in Matt 9:27-30 for the English word followed is akoloutheo and means, "to follow someone or something in a very determined manner." Even though two men were blind and couldn't see where they were going, they were determined to to follow Christ until they got His attention. Their determination was evidenced in their crying. This word means "to, scream, yell, exclaim, or cry out at the top of one's voice."
2. In 1 Cor. 14:1 Paul encourages the church and even you and I to follow after love. The Greek word used here is dioko, and means "to hotly pursue." It was used to describe a hunter following the tracks of an animal until he finally catches his game.
3. 2 Thess. 3:7 uses the word mimeomai, an old Greek word for an actor or mimic and it implies "an intentional study of the life, deeds, actions, and thoughts of another person in an attempt to fully understand that person then to replicate his attributes in one's own life." Paul uses the Greek word mimetes in Eph. 5:1 which means, "to imitate someone," or "to mimic what you see someone else doing." It was also used to describe actors or performing artists who acted on a stage as a profession.
QUESTION: Based on the above information, in what specific ways can you follow the Lord.
Monday, May 23, 2011
The Disciple And Spiritual Maturity
There are primarily 3 level of spiritual growth as it relates the individual Christians. Each of which corresponds to the three levels of natural growth. The three levels are: Babyhood, Childhood, and Manhood. Just as everyone is at a different level in their natural growth so to everyone is at a different level of their spiritual growth.
How long you've been born-again has very little to do with where you are currently in you spiritual progress. Being a believer for 20 years does not necessarily means you're at the Manhood level of your spiritual growth. Neither is being a believer for 2 years indicates you're a spiritual baby. I'm sure we all know others who've been saved for many years and yet are still either spiritual infants or spiritually immature children.
Your spiritual development is not up to anyone else but you. It's not even up to God. The responsibility rest squarely on your shoulders. Of course, you can get others involved who can have a positive influence and impact on your spiritual life. And yes, there are others whom you should avoid because they will most certainly retard your progress as a Christian. (2 Cor 6:14-18).
Now that we've established the three levels of spiritual development, let consider the four different types of people or personalities we will encounter on our spiritual journey.
The Starter: The starter is a brand new believer who is eager, zealous, willing, passionate, and yet unskilled, unlearned, undeveloped, and very naive in the ways of their new life in Christ. The most important and strategic action the starter can make is to link up with other more developed and mature disciples who can walk with then through the first weeks, months, and even the first year.
The Struggler: The struggler is generally a disciple who has been following Christ for only a short time (less than a year) but is yet having trouble navigating through the common difficulties every believer faces. Again the most important action a struggler can make is to partner with strong and health disciples who can walk with him and instruct him on becoming an overcomer as it relates to his specific issues.
The Stagnant: The stagnant person is the individual who has found themselves to be stuck spiritually. The root cause of their stagnation is neglect. It's possible they began their spiritual journey in the company of fellow disciples who worked with and walked with them. But over time they lost sight of the importance of being connected to and with fellow Christians. As a result they grew cold in their relationship with Christ. If they want stagnation to keeps it distance, they too must return to their fellow laborers in Christ.
The Stable: Stable disciple are those who faithful and constantly growing in their relationship with Christ. They are committed to things such as training, giving, serving, encouraging, and continued discipleship. Stable people give direction to the starters. They willingly stand with the struggler. They reach out to the stagnant providing encouragement to rekindle the flame of passion for Christ.
How long you've been born-again has very little to do with where you are currently in you spiritual progress. Being a believer for 20 years does not necessarily means you're at the Manhood level of your spiritual growth. Neither is being a believer for 2 years indicates you're a spiritual baby. I'm sure we all know others who've been saved for many years and yet are still either spiritual infants or spiritually immature children.
Your spiritual development is not up to anyone else but you. It's not even up to God. The responsibility rest squarely on your shoulders. Of course, you can get others involved who can have a positive influence and impact on your spiritual life. And yes, there are others whom you should avoid because they will most certainly retard your progress as a Christian. (2 Cor 6:14-18).
Now that we've established the three levels of spiritual development, let consider the four different types of people or personalities we will encounter on our spiritual journey.
The Starter: The starter is a brand new believer who is eager, zealous, willing, passionate, and yet unskilled, unlearned, undeveloped, and very naive in the ways of their new life in Christ. The most important and strategic action the starter can make is to link up with other more developed and mature disciples who can walk with then through the first weeks, months, and even the first year.
The Struggler: The struggler is generally a disciple who has been following Christ for only a short time (less than a year) but is yet having trouble navigating through the common difficulties every believer faces. Again the most important action a struggler can make is to partner with strong and health disciples who can walk with him and instruct him on becoming an overcomer as it relates to his specific issues.
The Stagnant: The stagnant person is the individual who has found themselves to be stuck spiritually. The root cause of their stagnation is neglect. It's possible they began their spiritual journey in the company of fellow disciples who worked with and walked with them. But over time they lost sight of the importance of being connected to and with fellow Christians. As a result they grew cold in their relationship with Christ. If they want stagnation to keeps it distance, they too must return to their fellow laborers in Christ.
The Stable: Stable disciple are those who faithful and constantly growing in their relationship with Christ. They are committed to things such as training, giving, serving, encouraging, and continued discipleship. Stable people give direction to the starters. They willingly stand with the struggler. They reach out to the stagnant providing encouragement to rekindle the flame of passion for Christ.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
The Disciples Relationship With God
One of the most important elements of any relationship is understanding the person you have a relationship with; that certainly applies to God too. You have to understand the basic nature and character of God to have a healthy relationship with Him. A failure or misunderstanding of the nature and character of God is one of the reasons that many people don't have a health and positive relationship with Him.
Yes, there are many things we could say regarding the nature and character of God. But the most basic and quite possibly the most important character of God is that He is good and His will for us is ONLY good. He is so good that He even take the unfortunate things that happen in our lives and causes it to work out for our good (Rom 8:26).
Jesus' willingness to forgive the woman caught in the very act of adultery exemplifies the goodness of God (Jn 8:1-11). It shows the willingness of God to reconcile mankind to Himself.
Please don't misunderstand or misrepresent what I am saying. God does not simply overlook sin and wrong doing. It's clear from the Word that He hates sin. It's clear that sin separates mankind from a holy and righteous God. What I want you to know and what I hope you understand is that God dealt with our sin when Christ took them upon Himself and received our punishment. God's heart is to reconcile mankind unto Himself, not to judge them or impute their sins to them.
If you really want to know how God deals with sin read "Paid In Full," by Rick Renner.
Yes, there are many things we could say regarding the nature and character of God. But the most basic and quite possibly the most important character of God is that He is good and His will for us is ONLY good. He is so good that He even take the unfortunate things that happen in our lives and causes it to work out for our good (Rom 8:26).
Jesus' willingness to forgive the woman caught in the very act of adultery exemplifies the goodness of God (Jn 8:1-11). It shows the willingness of God to reconcile mankind to Himself.
Please don't misunderstand or misrepresent what I am saying. God does not simply overlook sin and wrong doing. It's clear from the Word that He hates sin. It's clear that sin separates mankind from a holy and righteous God. What I want you to know and what I hope you understand is that God dealt with our sin when Christ took them upon Himself and received our punishment. God's heart is to reconcile mankind unto Himself, not to judge them or impute their sins to them.
If you really want to know how God deals with sin read "Paid In Full," by Rick Renner.
Righteousness: The Disciples Standing Before God
Mankind's greatest need is for righteousness, that is, to be in right standing, or a right-relationship with his Creator (Rom 3:10). Why? Because all have sinned (Rom 3:23), mankind is without hope and without God in this world (Eph 2:12), all come short of the glory of God (Rom 3:23b), and there is none righteous, no not one (Rom3:10).
While mankind was in this condition, God offered them, as a free gift, the righteousness they so desperately needed. It's God's own righteousness that He offers us freely through faith in Jesus Christ (Rom 3:22).
According to Rom 3:21 the righteousness God offers us is independent or apart from the law. The law says that men are accepted by God based meeting certain standards. In other words, your acceptance by God is based upon your efforts or by your actions.
If this righteousness is apart from the law (apart from my good deeds, apart from my achieving it by my efforts), how then are we made righteous before God? Rom 3:22 says it's by FAITH in Jesus Christ.
The bible uses the phrase "dead works" in Heb 6:1. Dead works are the things people trust in to get them to heaven. Things like living a good life, keeping the 10 commandments, attending church, giving to the needy etc.
While mankind was in this condition, God offered them, as a free gift, the righteousness they so desperately needed. It's God's own righteousness that He offers us freely through faith in Jesus Christ (Rom 3:22).
According to Rom 3:21 the righteousness God offers us is independent or apart from the law. The law says that men are accepted by God based meeting certain standards. In other words, your acceptance by God is based upon your efforts or by your actions.
If this righteousness is apart from the law (apart from my good deeds, apart from my achieving it by my efforts), how then are we made righteous before God? Rom 3:22 says it's by FAITH in Jesus Christ.
The bible uses the phrase "dead works" in Heb 6:1. Dead works are the things people trust in to get them to heaven. Things like living a good life, keeping the 10 commandments, attending church, giving to the needy etc.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Eternal Life: Entering The Doorway to Discipleship
One of the most familiar passages of scripture is John 3:16. It says, For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Traditionally, this verse has been used to teach that Jesus came and died for our sins so that we wouldn't perish. All true but, His real purpose was to die for us in order that we might have eternal life. Eternal life is the real message of the gospel. If this is indeed true, let's examine what that means.
John 17:3 says that eternal is knowing God and Jesus Christ. Eternal life is NOT missing hell or just going to heaven. Listen, missing hell and going to heaven are both wonderful, but they're not eternal life.
John 3:36 says, He that believes on the Son has everlasting life. That means that eternal life can be a present tense position and a present tense possession. It's not something that's going to take place in the future, but it's a present reality for all who receive Christ. (See 1 John 5:13).
John 17:3 uses the word "know." eternal life is to "know" God and Jesus Christ. The word "KNOW" is used throughout scripture to describe the most intimate, personal relationship that a person can have. This intimacy is similar to that in the marriage relationship. We could say then the real purpose of the salvation is to have intimacy -- a personal relationship with God and His Son.
With all this in mind we can conclude at least two things. First, eternal life is available now (1 Jn 5:13; Jn 3:36). Second, the quality of our relationship with God is the goal. The early church had such a quality relationship with God that was so dynamic that there're actual accounts of Roman soldiers who were so moved that they would give their lives to Christ knowing that they were going Ro be put to death with those who possessed this eternal life.
Jesus summed it up best when He said, I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly Jn 10:10.
QUESTION: Is it possible we're doing the gospel an injustice and a disservice by failing to properly explain the true meaning of eternal life?
Traditionally, this verse has been used to teach that Jesus came and died for our sins so that we wouldn't perish. All true but, His real purpose was to die for us in order that we might have eternal life. Eternal life is the real message of the gospel. If this is indeed true, let's examine what that means.
John 17:3 says that eternal is knowing God and Jesus Christ. Eternal life is NOT missing hell or just going to heaven. Listen, missing hell and going to heaven are both wonderful, but they're not eternal life.
John 3:36 says, He that believes on the Son has everlasting life. That means that eternal life can be a present tense position and a present tense possession. It's not something that's going to take place in the future, but it's a present reality for all who receive Christ. (See 1 John 5:13).
John 17:3 uses the word "know." eternal life is to "know" God and Jesus Christ. The word "KNOW" is used throughout scripture to describe the most intimate, personal relationship that a person can have. This intimacy is similar to that in the marriage relationship. We could say then the real purpose of the salvation is to have intimacy -- a personal relationship with God and His Son.
With all this in mind we can conclude at least two things. First, eternal life is available now (1 Jn 5:13; Jn 3:36). Second, the quality of our relationship with God is the goal. The early church had such a quality relationship with God that was so dynamic that there're actual accounts of Roman soldiers who were so moved that they would give their lives to Christ knowing that they were going Ro be put to death with those who possessed this eternal life.
Jesus summed it up best when He said, I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly Jn 10:10.
QUESTION: Is it possible we're doing the gospel an injustice and a disservice by failing to properly explain the true meaning of eternal life?
Discipleship: Defining The Terms
If you asked ten different people to explain what they think it means to be a disciple I'm certain you'd get at least five different answers. Several years ago I heard high school students were surveyed and ask several questions regarding biblical topics. One question was, "Who were the disciples?" Not knowing the answer, many students commented by answering that the disciples were the wife's of the apostles.
This lack of understanding regarding discipleship is not only evident among our high school students but it is also apparent within many of our local churches.
Let's examine what discipleship is not. First, discipleship is not a program or event. Second, discipleship is not for a limited time. Third, discipleship is not limited to new converts. No, discipleship is a way of life, it's for our whole life, and it's every believer for everyday of their life.
Jesus said in Luke 9:23, "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me."
Simply stated, discipleship means learning from and following a teacher. I'm convinced the most important evidence of God's work in the world is in the existence of committed disciples. It's important to note that discipleship is not an option, it's actually a command.
Listen to Jesus' words;
19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen (Matt 28:19-20.)
According to Jesus conversions are not enough. We think we're doing kingdom business when we win others to Christ. Winning others to Christ is only part of what we're commissioned to in Matthew 28. Leading others to Christ is really just the beginning of fulfilling the Great Commission. The biggest and most difficult task is making disciples.
QUESTION: If discipleship is at the core of of God's work in the world why is it that it's not at the core of what local churches focus on?
This lack of understanding regarding discipleship is not only evident among our high school students but it is also apparent within many of our local churches.
Let's examine what discipleship is not. First, discipleship is not a program or event. Second, discipleship is not for a limited time. Third, discipleship is not limited to new converts. No, discipleship is a way of life, it's for our whole life, and it's every believer for everyday of their life.
Jesus said in Luke 9:23, "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me."
Simply stated, discipleship means learning from and following a teacher. I'm convinced the most important evidence of God's work in the world is in the existence of committed disciples. It's important to note that discipleship is not an option, it's actually a command.
Listen to Jesus' words;
19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen (Matt 28:19-20.)
According to Jesus conversions are not enough. We think we're doing kingdom business when we win others to Christ. Winning others to Christ is only part of what we're commissioned to in Matthew 28. Leading others to Christ is really just the beginning of fulfilling the Great Commission. The biggest and most difficult task is making disciples.
QUESTION: If discipleship is at the core of of God's work in the world why is it that it's not at the core of what local churches focus on?
Friday, May 20, 2011
The Goal of Discipleship
Simply stated a disciple is a follower. For the believer, the person we follow is Jesus Christ. Following Christ implies we're moving forward and heading toward a particular destination.
If you're a follower - disciple - of Christ, your goal is to become more and more like Him. You can't follow Christ without desiring to become like Him. Becoming like Christ is what Paul meant when he said, God would finish the work He started in you Phil. 1:6.
True biblical discipleship always has Christ at its core. The FOCUS of true discipleship is always Jesus! Anything less cannot be considered discipleship by Christ' standard.
QUESTION: In your opinion, why is it or why should it be that Christ is the focus of true discipleship?
If you're a follower - disciple - of Christ, your goal is to become more and more like Him. You can't follow Christ without desiring to become like Him. Becoming like Christ is what Paul meant when he said, God would finish the work He started in you Phil. 1:6.
True biblical discipleship always has Christ at its core. The FOCUS of true discipleship is always Jesus! Anything less cannot be considered discipleship by Christ' standard.
QUESTION: In your opinion, why is it or why should it be that Christ is the focus of true discipleship?
Introducing Discipleship
Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his classic work "The Cost of Discipleship" stated, "Christianity without discipleship is always Christianity without Christ."
WOW! If this is true; and I certainly believe it to be so, we need to take an honest look, and reconsider what it is we've been doing in our churches. Is it possible that we've been in the ditch on one side of the road or the other? Is it possible that we've gotten it all; or at least some if it, wrong when it comes to doing "church?"
This may come as a shock to you, but nowhere did Jesus say, "go make converts." When we read Mt 28:18-20 however, it's abundantly clear that we are to make disciples. Please don't misunderstand me. We are commissioned to preach the gospel to every nation and win as many people to Christ as will receive Him. On this front, there seems to be little misunderstanding. But when it comes to making disciples I'm concerned that we're missing it big time.
QUESTION: Could this be the reason carnality seems to so rampant in our churches? I'd be very interested in your feedback!
WOW! If this is true; and I certainly believe it to be so, we need to take an honest look, and reconsider what it is we've been doing in our churches. Is it possible that we've been in the ditch on one side of the road or the other? Is it possible that we've gotten it all; or at least some if it, wrong when it comes to doing "church?"
This may come as a shock to you, but nowhere did Jesus say, "go make converts." When we read Mt 28:18-20 however, it's abundantly clear that we are to make disciples. Please don't misunderstand me. We are commissioned to preach the gospel to every nation and win as many people to Christ as will receive Him. On this front, there seems to be little misunderstanding. But when it comes to making disciples I'm concerned that we're missing it big time.
QUESTION: Could this be the reason carnality seems to so rampant in our churches? I'd be very interested in your feedback!
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