Dear Paul,
I want to thank you for your obedience to Almighty God in following the inspiration of the Holy Spirit as you composed your letter to the church at Romans. I have read your letter on many occasions and no matter how many times I read it, I find myself amazed not only at your insight into the mysteries of the gospel, but also at how much I have to learn about the same. Each time I read it, my emotions range from shame (at my own sinfulness) to elation (at the redemption I’ve received) to frustration (at my failed Christian walk) to inspiration (toward proper Christian living). Nowhere else in scripture have I found such a triadic formula of monumental spiritual principles as I find in Romans. This triadic formula includes the life-saving Truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to save my soul combined with the life-changing power of the Holy Spirit to facilitate personal transformation in my life here on earth combined with the life-inspiring practical guidance towards everyday Christian living. Your letter fully describes the Christian walk from salvation through sanctification and for that I am truly grateful – to God be the Glory.
I must say that the Gospel of Jesus Christ is simple. I myself believed on the name of Jesus as a small child and thus placed my trust in him for salvation to eternal life. As a child, however, I did not understand the depth of the mysteries of that gospel. Indeed, I did not learn that until much later - after I read your letter – in fact, not until after I had read your letter many times, because it contains that much depth of truth. When I placed my faith in Jesus Christ, I knew that I was a sinner. I knew that all men had sinned and needed Christ. However, your letter has shown me the truth about just how lost I really was. Your letter has taught me how truly unrighteous I am in my sinfulness, how I have willingly turned away from God, and how the traditions of my parents – to whom I give praise to God for taking me to church nine months before I was even born – provided me no excuses or special treatment. I stand before Almighty God alone, unable to obtain for myself righteousness. I am “guilty” before the Judge of my own sinfulness, but Christ has declared me “not guilty” through the justification that comes from the shedding of his blood.
As a result, your letter has taught me the true meaning of righteousness. It has reminded me that by placing my faith in Jesus, I am dependent solely upon him – through faith – for His righteousness. I have to admit that there was a time, even after placing my faith in Christ, that I was proud of my religious heritage. I had a fundamentalist, immature, condescending view of those who had not placed their faith in Christ. Your letter reminds me that I have nothing to boast of except the cross of Christ. I am no different than any other sinner. I deserve death. I deserve the wrath of God – but Praise be to God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ that my righteousness comes through him – and not through my own merits!
Your letter has also taught me more about the meaning of faith. Faith is more than just mental assent. In his letter, James reminds us of that fact when he says that even the demons believe in God. I have heard many pundits claim that your view of faith is at odds with James’ view of faith. When I read your letter to the Romans, I do not see that. As such, I must disagree with those pundits. Your letter clearly establishes that the righteousness we receive through our faith in the blood of Jesus Christ obligates us to remain obedient so that we maintain that righteousness. It is not a salvation by works, but it is an obligation to remain holy. If I read your letter accurately, you believe we bear a responsibility to maintain our righteousness through the way in which we lead our lives. I must admit to you, however, that I fail miserably at this task. As you mention in your letter, I too find myself at war with my own intentions. No matter how righteous I try to be, I fail. No matter how much good I try to do, I always find myself doing evil. It is enough to drive me absolutely insane. It is scary to think that I am powerless to maintain the righteousness for I am obligated to maintain. It is enough to fear that perhaps my justification will be revoked.
For this reason, I am grateful that your letter sympathizes with my fears and then shatters them by reminding me of the security I have in Christ. We have nothing to fear for there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ! Your letter reminds me that I don’t have to try to be righteous on my own – that is living in the flesh. Instead, I live by the Holy Spirit because I have the Holy Spirit living in me. That Holy Spirit has sealed me so that I can never be condemned. That Holy Spirit guides me to a life that is characterized by Holiness. That Holy Spirit is the source of the transforming power of sanctification within my life. It is through the power of the Spirit that I maintain a righteous life. This, too is by faith, not by my own merits.
Paul, if you don’t mind, may I take a short side-bar here? Because we can get so discouraged in our Christian walk, I realize how important it was for you to detail the security we have in Christ. However, the manner in which you did so brought up the issue of predestination. It’s not that I don’t believe in predestination – I cannot read scripture and deny that predestination in some form is taught in scripture. However, I don’t understand why, not just in your letter to the Romans, but also in your letter to the Ephesians and elsewhere, that you present the concepts of predestination and election in a way that has created such a great deal of controversy in our churches. Couldn’t you have been just a bit clearer? What exactly did you mean by predestination and election? The truth is, we can’t seem to agree on this? Some say one thing; others say another thing; and of course each one is adamant that they are right and everyone else is wrong. As a result, some of our churches have split over this issue. God forgive us. Oddly enough, predestination wasn’t even the point in this letter here, was it? Indeed, I can’t see where you ever speak of predestination as “the” point in any of your writings. For example, if I understand your usage of the term here, you just wanted us to know that if God, from eternity past, calls us to salvation, then nothing can take that away from us. I get your point. God is Sovereign. He can do anything he wants. It is completely within his power to create or destroy at his own discretion.
Your point, however, was not predestination, but rather salvation by faith. That has always been God’s Sovereign plan. According to your own words here in this letter to the Romans, his plan was for humans to send other humans to preach the gospel. His plan was that through that preaching people will hear the message of the truth of the gospel – and because the gospel is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes, then salvation is available to the entire world. Your plan was for man to place his faith in Jesus Christ – for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. It looks to me like man has a responsibility here – to call upon the name of the Lord! Nevertheless, we can’t seem to agree on this thing we have called the doctrine of election or the doctrine of predestination. I hope that both you and our Lord Jesus Christ will forgive us for the division that our inability to come to agreement has created.
It is odd that something in your letter would create such division, because you spend a great deal of time in your letter teaching us about the importance of unity in the church. Your letter teaches us to bear with each other – that the weak should bear with the strong. It is shameful that we are so arrogant that we all think we are the strong and they are the weak. Our petty doctrinal differences are of no consequence compared to the need for unity in the church. Your letter is clear about that. It teaches us very practical ways of maintaining that unity. We are to serve one another. We are to use our gifts in service to God. We are to be patient with each other. We are to submit to our authorities.
If I were to be honest, I would have to say that sometimes we spend so much time on the doctrinal truths that you laid out in the first half of the letter that we forget about the practical truths in the second half of the letter. When I read your letter to the Romans properly – the way that God intended – then I can clearly see that we cannot focus on one to the exclusion of the other. We cannot focus on doctrine without also focusing on personal transformation through the Holy Spirit and on practical Christian living by serving our brethren. Likewise, we cannot focus on personal transformation without that transformation being grounded in the truth of doctrine and for the purpose of serving mankind. Finally, we cannot put so much focus on changing the world that we forget why (or rather for whom) we are changing it. It is all about the gospel. The gospel saves me. The gospel changes me. The gospel encourages and helps me serve others so that they too may be saved. All three fit together and are masterfully laid out in this letter to the Romans.
You have produced an amazing work here, Paul. Yes, I realize that it was God through the Holy Spirit, but you were the willing vessel! Thank you for your obedience. Thank you for your example. Thank God for his faithfulness.
Your fellow servant
Joel
A journey in the daily struggle to totally surrender to Jesus Christ.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
What is TRUE repentance?
The book of Nahum prophesies the total and complete destruction of Nineveh, the capital of the evil and ruthless Assyrians. This prophesy came true in 612BC when the Babylonians razed Nineveh to the ground... These are the same Assyrians to which Jonah was sent a few hundred years prior and who, as a result of Jonah’s preaching, repented of their evil ways. Unfortunately, their repentance was at worst not real and at best not lasting, because they soon turned back to their wickedness and became more evil in the end than they were before Jonah.
God has a message for us in Nahum about our repentance. Make sure it is real. The question is: How do I know my repentance is real?
One of the greatest prayers of repentance in the bible is that of David in Psalm 51. From that prayer, we can see that true repentance must be accompanied by the following:
- Acknowledgement – we must acknowledge that we have sinned. Too often we want to justify as actions and refuse to admit they are wrong.
- Confession – we must confess our sin before God and man
- Humility – we should be humbled by our sinfulness as we approach God with it
- Shame – we should be ashamed of our sinfulness when we compare it to a Holy God
- Response to do good – true repentance should result in a desire to do good
David demonstrates that his repentance is accompanied by each of these.
Is your repentance real? Have you really turned away from your sinfulness to a Holy God, or are you still on the path to destruction like Nineveh?
If your repentance is real, then the best news is what happens next…
To hear more about repentance, click on the link below to hear this week’s sermon.
Nahum – Are you for real?
http://www.box.net/shared/4b7i424ngj
Monday, August 18, 2008
How Big Can You Imagine?
An amazing thing about our God… he always outdoes himself.
This past Sunday I was to preach a sermon on the last of the “I AM” statements in John – “I am the true vine” from John 15:1 (http://surrenderdaily.blogspot.com/2008/08/i-am-true-vine.html). A big part of the emphasis of that message was to be our obedience to Jesus’ command to love one another (John 15:12, 17). To emphasize that very thought, I wanted to do something “lovable” for my congregants. Remember, though, that I serve a congregation of elderly residents of an assisted living center.
Originally, my plan was to get a few of my friends together on Saturday morning and clean up wheelchairs and walkers. Nothing special, just a small act of kindness – well intended… God had something else in mind.
Last Sunday (Sunday-week that is), the youth pastor at one of the local churches approached me with a problem. He was having a weekend-long discipleship event for his kids (known as Kappa-Chi Weekend). This would be a very large event, and part of the weekend itinerary was a local mission project. The event included about 300 kids and he was spreading out the kids in the area… but he was running out of project ideas. He wanted to know whether there was something that some of his kids could do at the assisted living center. Hmmm… Serendipitous.
To make a long story short, he ended up sending about 15-20 kids to the assisted living center. In addition to cleaning wheelchairs and walkers, we were able to interact socially with a large number of the residents and even had a 2-hour Bingo-athon! And may I say two words about that… first, don’t mess with little old ladies playing bingo – they take it very seriously. Second – don’t think you can outlast them playing bingo – unbelievable bingo-stamina!
The point is. If me and one or two of my friends had gone to clean wheelchairs, it would have been a great act of kindness. However, what God did instead… pretty amazing and far more impactful than what I originally had in mind. The kids got a blessing out of it; the residents got a blessing out of it; I got a blessing out of it - Everybody was happy.
Don’t underestimate what God can do with just a little bit of availability.
Ephesians 3:20
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.
This past Sunday I was to preach a sermon on the last of the “I AM” statements in John – “I am the true vine” from John 15:1 (http://surrenderdaily.blogspot.com/2008/08/i-am-true-vine.html). A big part of the emphasis of that message was to be our obedience to Jesus’ command to love one another (John 15:12, 17). To emphasize that very thought, I wanted to do something “lovable” for my congregants. Remember, though, that I serve a congregation of elderly residents of an assisted living center.
Originally, my plan was to get a few of my friends together on Saturday morning and clean up wheelchairs and walkers. Nothing special, just a small act of kindness – well intended… God had something else in mind.
Last Sunday (Sunday-week that is), the youth pastor at one of the local churches approached me with a problem. He was having a weekend-long discipleship event for his kids (known as Kappa-Chi Weekend). This would be a very large event, and part of the weekend itinerary was a local mission project. The event included about 300 kids and he was spreading out the kids in the area… but he was running out of project ideas. He wanted to know whether there was something that some of his kids could do at the assisted living center. Hmmm… Serendipitous.
To make a long story short, he ended up sending about 15-20 kids to the assisted living center. In addition to cleaning wheelchairs and walkers, we were able to interact socially with a large number of the residents and even had a 2-hour Bingo-athon! And may I say two words about that… first, don’t mess with little old ladies playing bingo – they take it very seriously. Second – don’t think you can outlast them playing bingo – unbelievable bingo-stamina!
The point is. If me and one or two of my friends had gone to clean wheelchairs, it would have been a great act of kindness. However, what God did instead… pretty amazing and far more impactful than what I originally had in mind. The kids got a blessing out of it; the residents got a blessing out of it; I got a blessing out of it - Everybody was happy.
Don’t underestimate what God can do with just a little bit of availability.
Ephesians 3:20
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
The Way, The Truth, The Life
Recently, the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life issued a report showing some very disturbing trends. The report, which can be found in its entirety here, showed (among other things) that
This is a truly disturbing trend that demonstrates that "Christians" today apparently don't believe Jesus' own words. When Jesus said (in John 14:6) that he was the Way, the Truth, and the Life and that no one could come to the Father except through him, he meant what he said. If we are to believe Jesus Christ, then we must believe everything he said. This self-proclaimation was either truth... or it was a lie. I believe it is truth. Here are three reasons why Jesus is the ONLY way....
1. Jesus’ Life satisfied the Requirements of God’s Law
Rom 8:1-4 - Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in sinful man, in order that the righteous requirements of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit.
No other religion claims to be able to make you righteous in God’s eyes… rather, they claim you don’t need to be righteous… you just need to be “good enough”. This is a lie. We must stand before God completely blameless. Only Jesus has lived that blameless life and, when we place our faith in him, his righteousness is imputed to us. That is what happens when we are justified by our faith.
2. Jesus’ Death satisfied the Retribution of God’s Wrath
Rom 5:6-9 - You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through him!
No other religion can say that they fully satisfy the wrath of God. They may claim that they can placate God’s wrath, but God’s wrath cannot be placated – it must be fully satisfied. Some will even claim that God will not punish us. That, too is a lie. “The wages of sin is death” and that price must be paid – It was paid… by Jesus.
3. Jesus’ Resurrection demonstrated the Reality of God’s Promise
1 Cor 15:20-22 - But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.
No other religion can show proof that their promises of eternal life or glory can be met. Only Jesus has resurrected from the dead. Only Jesus has defeated death completely.
But he's not just the way... he's also the truth and the life...
To hear more about the Way, the Truth, and the Life, click on the link below to listen to this week's sermon.
"I am The Way, The Truth, and The Life"
http://www.box.net/shared/49mdkc31f7
- 57% of evangelical church attendees believe many religions can lead to eternal life
- 70% of Americans with religious affiliations believe in more than one way to heaven
- 68% believe there is no single “true” interpretation of their own religion
This is a truly disturbing trend that demonstrates that "Christians" today apparently don't believe Jesus' own words. When Jesus said (in John 14:6) that he was the Way, the Truth, and the Life and that no one could come to the Father except through him, he meant what he said. If we are to believe Jesus Christ, then we must believe everything he said. This self-proclaimation was either truth... or it was a lie. I believe it is truth. Here are three reasons why Jesus is the ONLY way....
1. Jesus’ Life satisfied the Requirements of God’s Law
Rom 8:1-4 - Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in sinful man, in order that the righteous requirements of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit.
No other religion claims to be able to make you righteous in God’s eyes… rather, they claim you don’t need to be righteous… you just need to be “good enough”. This is a lie. We must stand before God completely blameless. Only Jesus has lived that blameless life and, when we place our faith in him, his righteousness is imputed to us. That is what happens when we are justified by our faith.
2. Jesus’ Death satisfied the Retribution of God’s Wrath
Rom 5:6-9 - You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through him!
No other religion can say that they fully satisfy the wrath of God. They may claim that they can placate God’s wrath, but God’s wrath cannot be placated – it must be fully satisfied. Some will even claim that God will not punish us. That, too is a lie. “The wages of sin is death” and that price must be paid – It was paid… by Jesus.
3. Jesus’ Resurrection demonstrated the Reality of God’s Promise
1 Cor 15:20-22 - But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.
No other religion can show proof that their promises of eternal life or glory can be met. Only Jesus has resurrected from the dead. Only Jesus has defeated death completely.
But he's not just the way... he's also the truth and the life...
To hear more about the Way, the Truth, and the Life, click on the link below to listen to this week's sermon.
"I am The Way, The Truth, and The Life"
http://www.box.net/shared/49mdkc31f7
Friday, August 1, 2008
The Resurrection and the Life
“Why do bad things happen?” No doubt this is a question that all of us have asked. Intellectually, we are troubled by the things that go on in this world.
“Why do bad things happen to me?” Again, another question that I’m sure most of us have asked. Emotionally, we are troubled by the fact that we experience trouble and hardship – even though we do all that we can to remain faithful to God.
As a result, we ask yet another question… “Why doesn’t God fix things?” That is its basic form, but it can come in other forms as well… “Why did you let this happen?” “I don’t understand why this happened.” Or it could even be a bit more antagonistic… “If you loved me, this would not have happened.” “If you were really God, you would not allow such evil in the world.”
There are no easy answers to these questions. There are, of course, Sunday School answers, but without faith, those answers may ring hollow. It is easy to say “God has a plan… a purpose… we just don’t understand it.” In times of crisis, however, that doesn’t help much … UNLESS… you’ve prepared yourself in advance so that you know God’s plan and your faith is prepared for the crisis before it happens.
John chapter 11 helps us with that faith – and shows us that plan. We will not always see the plan in the moment of crisis, but we must have faith that it is there. When Lazarus died, Mary and Martha could not see the plan. They just thought Jesus abandoned them in their time of need. Obviously, he was not. Rather, he was working out God’s plan.
And lest you think otherwise, God’s plan was not to raise Lazarus from the dead. The plan is the same as it always has been. The raising of Lazarus was just one part of that plan – a necessary moment of suffering to accomplish a greater purpose – God’s purpose.
As with everything else that has happened since the beginning of time, God is working out his grand plan. A three dimensional plan:
To Glorify Himself
To Increase Man’s Faith (for the purpose of salvation)
To Prepare Man for Eternity in Glory (and the resurrection of the dead)
How is this plan accomplished in the suffering you experience? I honestly don’t know. Perhaps you will know one day, but maybe you will never know until we ourselves reach Glory. But I do know this. God gave us a very real example of another family’s suffering and then specifically showed them how their suffering accomplished this plan. Then, just in case there was any doubt left, he demonstrated his power over life and death.
Jesus truly is the resurrection and the life. To hear more about this, click on the link below to listen to this week’s sermon.
I AM The Resurrection
http://www.box.net/shared/dovzxxdwg8
“Why do bad things happen to me?” Again, another question that I’m sure most of us have asked. Emotionally, we are troubled by the fact that we experience trouble and hardship – even though we do all that we can to remain faithful to God.
As a result, we ask yet another question… “Why doesn’t God fix things?” That is its basic form, but it can come in other forms as well… “Why did you let this happen?” “I don’t understand why this happened.” Or it could even be a bit more antagonistic… “If you loved me, this would not have happened.” “If you were really God, you would not allow such evil in the world.”
There are no easy answers to these questions. There are, of course, Sunday School answers, but without faith, those answers may ring hollow. It is easy to say “God has a plan… a purpose… we just don’t understand it.” In times of crisis, however, that doesn’t help much … UNLESS… you’ve prepared yourself in advance so that you know God’s plan and your faith is prepared for the crisis before it happens.
John chapter 11 helps us with that faith – and shows us that plan. We will not always see the plan in the moment of crisis, but we must have faith that it is there. When Lazarus died, Mary and Martha could not see the plan. They just thought Jesus abandoned them in their time of need. Obviously, he was not. Rather, he was working out God’s plan.
And lest you think otherwise, God’s plan was not to raise Lazarus from the dead. The plan is the same as it always has been. The raising of Lazarus was just one part of that plan – a necessary moment of suffering to accomplish a greater purpose – God’s purpose.
As with everything else that has happened since the beginning of time, God is working out his grand plan. A three dimensional plan:
To Glorify Himself
To Increase Man’s Faith (for the purpose of salvation)
To Prepare Man for Eternity in Glory (and the resurrection of the dead)
How is this plan accomplished in the suffering you experience? I honestly don’t know. Perhaps you will know one day, but maybe you will never know until we ourselves reach Glory. But I do know this. God gave us a very real example of another family’s suffering and then specifically showed them how their suffering accomplished this plan. Then, just in case there was any doubt left, he demonstrated his power over life and death.
Jesus truly is the resurrection and the life. To hear more about this, click on the link below to listen to this week’s sermon.
I AM The Resurrection
http://www.box.net/shared/dovzxxdwg8
Monday, July 28, 2008
Movie Review: Inherit the Wind (1960)
These days, with all the seminary studying and reading to do, it is not very often that I would actually watch, much less write a review on a movie that was released in 1960. If I had the time to watch a movie, it would most likely be a newer release. Honestly, if I didn’t have to watch this movie for a History of Christianity class – and then write a review of the movie for that class - I doubt seriously that the film would have ever peaked my entertainment radar.
Nevertheless, I can say that I would recommend the 1960 Stanley Kramer film, Inherit the Wind, as an absolute must see for every Christian. It’s not that I think it is a great movie. It’s not that I think the movie has a great message. In fact, it is precisely what is wrong with the movie that makes it such a must see for Christians today. In my opinion, the movie represents absolutely everything wrong with Hollywood as it relates to their perspective of Christianity. As a Christian, it is important for us to know how we are being perceived. More importantly, it is critical that we – through our actions – do not become what non-Christians perceive us to be. If we truly behave the way this film portrays us, then we deserve every bit of the ridicule it bestows upon us.
Inherit the Wind, is a dramatic reenactment of otherwise actual events surrounding the infamous 1925 Dayton, TN Scopes Trial – otherwise known as the “Monkey Trial” - in which school teacher John T. Scopes was placed on trial for teaching the Darwinian theory of evolution. The movie is based upon a play by Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee and significantly changes a majority of the historical facts – including character names and locale - as part of the dramatization. In the movie, John T. Scopes is replaced by the character Bertram T. Cates, portrayed by Dick York. Defense lawyer Clarence Darrow is replaced by Henry Drummond and is portrayed by Spencer Tracy. Prosecutor and statesman William Jennings Bryan is replaced by Matthew Harrison Brady and is portrayed by Fredric March. Finally, journalist H.L. Menken is replaced by E.K. Hornbeck and is portrayed by Gene Kelly. In the film, the trial takes place in the small town of Hillsborough, representing Dayton TN.
From the very first note of Give Me That Old Time Religion during the opening credits, it was intuitively obvious that Stanley Kramer intends for the movie to demonize the religious fanaticism that he believes characterized the motivations of those involved in the original prosecution of John T. Scopes, if not Christianity itself. Throughout the movie, the religious element is portrayed as overly zealous, gluttonous, bigoted, uncompassionate, and small-minded. By contrast, those who supported Bert Cates are portrayed as intelligent, compassionate, and temperate. In a word, Kramer portrays Christians in a manner that appears completely pagan while he portrays most of the non-Christians, particularly Cates and Drummond, in a manner that I would describe as patently Christian.
The movie depicts the townsfolk of Hillsborough as a blood-thirsty mob that would stop at nothing to prevent new ideas from infecting their world view. On several occasions, the lynch-mob townsfolk sang spirituals whose words had been changed to cry out for the death of both Cates and Drummond. At one point, the crowd carried a burning dummy, supposedly indicating its desire to burn the two at the stake. The local pastor, Rev. Jeremiah Brown portrayed by Claude Akins, went so far as to condemn not only Cates and Drummond to hell, but also his own daughter, who happened to be engaged to Cates. On the other side of the contest, journalist E.K. Hornbeck of the Boston Herald is equally determined to destroy the reputation of Hillsborough and expose them to the world for being the bigoted hypocrites he believes them to be. Only Cates, Drummond, and Brady’s wife Sara (portrayed by Florence Eldridge) appear to have any sense of self-containment and control.
The movie’s portrayal of the trial itself is as flamboyant and one-sided as one would expect given the pre-trial anti-religious hype established by director Stanley Kramer. The trial is supposed to be one that puts the “myth” of creation against the “enlightened truth” of evolution. Necessarily, then, Matthew Brady spouts religious intolerance as if it were the religious code of the country, doing all he can to demonize the defense. Henry Drummond, on the other hand, does everything he can to introduce “truth” and “intelligence” into the trial; but every effort is thwarted by the judge (portrayed by Harry Morgan) who, while seemingly not a part of the lynch-mob, still holds their views and inserts them into the judicial process as necessary to ensure that Cates does not receive a fair trial. Not surprisingly, when the trial ends with a jury verdict against Cates but the judge only issues a sentence of a $100 fine, the religious fanatics erupt and the scene quickly degrades into anarchistic mayhem.
The result of Inherit the Wind was to infamize what was otherwise one of the most famous and important trials of modern history. Instead of being a test-case for the separation of Church and Sate, the trial has become a symbol of religious intolerance and irrelevance. Surprisingly, despite the one-sided portrayal and liberal objectives of the movies producers, the issues covered by the Scopes Trial are incredibly important and relevant to current religious and political issues. Whereas the real trial dealt with important issues of Church and State, the movie dealt with the intolerance of religious bigotry. In stark irony, Christians today are faced with exactly the same bigotry against them coming from atheists over the issue of creation vs. evolution that Kramer portrayed as coming from Christians in Inherit the Wind. Turn about, however, is apparently not fair play. Attitudes of agnostic/atheistic “religious intolerance” and policies of separation of Church from State have made it illegal to teach creation in schools. Unfortunately, while Clarence Darrow and the American Civil Liberties Union were more than willing to stand up for the freedom of free-thinking desired by those wishing to teach evolution in schools, their successors in the area of civil liberties actively oppose the religious freedom desired by those who wish to teach creation along with evolution as two, equally held theories of the origins of the species.
It is probably impossible to find this movie unless you buy it, but if you are within my circle of influence… you can borrow mine.
Nevertheless, I can say that I would recommend the 1960 Stanley Kramer film, Inherit the Wind, as an absolute must see for every Christian. It’s not that I think it is a great movie. It’s not that I think the movie has a great message. In fact, it is precisely what is wrong with the movie that makes it such a must see for Christians today. In my opinion, the movie represents absolutely everything wrong with Hollywood as it relates to their perspective of Christianity. As a Christian, it is important for us to know how we are being perceived. More importantly, it is critical that we – through our actions – do not become what non-Christians perceive us to be. If we truly behave the way this film portrays us, then we deserve every bit of the ridicule it bestows upon us.
Inherit the Wind, is a dramatic reenactment of otherwise actual events surrounding the infamous 1925 Dayton, TN Scopes Trial – otherwise known as the “Monkey Trial” - in which school teacher John T. Scopes was placed on trial for teaching the Darwinian theory of evolution. The movie is based upon a play by Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee and significantly changes a majority of the historical facts – including character names and locale - as part of the dramatization. In the movie, John T. Scopes is replaced by the character Bertram T. Cates, portrayed by Dick York. Defense lawyer Clarence Darrow is replaced by Henry Drummond and is portrayed by Spencer Tracy. Prosecutor and statesman William Jennings Bryan is replaced by Matthew Harrison Brady and is portrayed by Fredric March. Finally, journalist H.L. Menken is replaced by E.K. Hornbeck and is portrayed by Gene Kelly. In the film, the trial takes place in the small town of Hillsborough, representing Dayton TN.
From the very first note of Give Me That Old Time Religion during the opening credits, it was intuitively obvious that Stanley Kramer intends for the movie to demonize the religious fanaticism that he believes characterized the motivations of those involved in the original prosecution of John T. Scopes, if not Christianity itself. Throughout the movie, the religious element is portrayed as overly zealous, gluttonous, bigoted, uncompassionate, and small-minded. By contrast, those who supported Bert Cates are portrayed as intelligent, compassionate, and temperate. In a word, Kramer portrays Christians in a manner that appears completely pagan while he portrays most of the non-Christians, particularly Cates and Drummond, in a manner that I would describe as patently Christian.
The movie depicts the townsfolk of Hillsborough as a blood-thirsty mob that would stop at nothing to prevent new ideas from infecting their world view. On several occasions, the lynch-mob townsfolk sang spirituals whose words had been changed to cry out for the death of both Cates and Drummond. At one point, the crowd carried a burning dummy, supposedly indicating its desire to burn the two at the stake. The local pastor, Rev. Jeremiah Brown portrayed by Claude Akins, went so far as to condemn not only Cates and Drummond to hell, but also his own daughter, who happened to be engaged to Cates. On the other side of the contest, journalist E.K. Hornbeck of the Boston Herald is equally determined to destroy the reputation of Hillsborough and expose them to the world for being the bigoted hypocrites he believes them to be. Only Cates, Drummond, and Brady’s wife Sara (portrayed by Florence Eldridge) appear to have any sense of self-containment and control.
The movie’s portrayal of the trial itself is as flamboyant and one-sided as one would expect given the pre-trial anti-religious hype established by director Stanley Kramer. The trial is supposed to be one that puts the “myth” of creation against the “enlightened truth” of evolution. Necessarily, then, Matthew Brady spouts religious intolerance as if it were the religious code of the country, doing all he can to demonize the defense. Henry Drummond, on the other hand, does everything he can to introduce “truth” and “intelligence” into the trial; but every effort is thwarted by the judge (portrayed by Harry Morgan) who, while seemingly not a part of the lynch-mob, still holds their views and inserts them into the judicial process as necessary to ensure that Cates does not receive a fair trial. Not surprisingly, when the trial ends with a jury verdict against Cates but the judge only issues a sentence of a $100 fine, the religious fanatics erupt and the scene quickly degrades into anarchistic mayhem.
The result of Inherit the Wind was to infamize what was otherwise one of the most famous and important trials of modern history. Instead of being a test-case for the separation of Church and Sate, the trial has become a symbol of religious intolerance and irrelevance. Surprisingly, despite the one-sided portrayal and liberal objectives of the movies producers, the issues covered by the Scopes Trial are incredibly important and relevant to current religious and political issues. Whereas the real trial dealt with important issues of Church and State, the movie dealt with the intolerance of religious bigotry. In stark irony, Christians today are faced with exactly the same bigotry against them coming from atheists over the issue of creation vs. evolution that Kramer portrayed as coming from Christians in Inherit the Wind. Turn about, however, is apparently not fair play. Attitudes of agnostic/atheistic “religious intolerance” and policies of separation of Church from State have made it illegal to teach creation in schools. Unfortunately, while Clarence Darrow and the American Civil Liberties Union were more than willing to stand up for the freedom of free-thinking desired by those wishing to teach evolution in schools, their successors in the area of civil liberties actively oppose the religious freedom desired by those who wish to teach creation along with evolution as two, equally held theories of the origins of the species.
It is probably impossible to find this movie unless you buy it, but if you are within my circle of influence… you can borrow mine.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
GET SMART Movie Review
OK… Peter Segal’s remake of the 1970 spy comedy, Get Smart is rated PG-13 for a reason. According to the MPAA, it is rated PG-13 for “rude humor, action violence, and language.” The enhanced rating summary is there so that you know what you are getting into if you take your small kids to the movie. With that said, Get Smart is one of the best and funniest retro-remakes I’ve seen in a long while.
Most retro-remakes are either absolute spoofs (and usually star Leslie Neilson - whom I do not like as an actor whatsoever) or essentially just make fun of the 60s/70s culture (such as with Starsky and Hutch). Get Smart, however, is truly a redo that updates the storyline for today’s culture. On top of that, its really quite funny – thanks primarily to Steve Carell and Dwayne Johnson (who can be surprisingly funny). What’s more, not all of the humor is crude – most, in fact, is not.
I used to love watching the old Don Adams reruns of the Get Smart TV series, so I really enjoyed the movie remake. Steve Carell made a convincing Maxwell Smart – more so than I expected, because I don’t typically enjoy the characters that he portrays (OK, can I say that I hate the fact that I find The Office funny?). Steve Carell’s Maxwell Smart character, however, was not nearly as bumbling as Don Adams. Yes, he was ridiculous. Yes, he was a bit of a buffoon, but it just seems to me that I remember the Don Adams character always beating the bad guys purely by coincidence (or more specifically because of Agent 99). Steve Carell’s character actually did some pretty intelligent things… well, sort of… but I won’t say anymore… no spoilers, you know.
On the other hand, I thought Anne Hathaway did not make a very convincing Agent 99. I enjoyed her portrayal nonetheless. I don’t remember “99” ever being antagonistic towards Maxwell Smart; and even though she came around towards the end of the movie, I thought their conflict was way overplayed… In the series, Agent 99 would have never turned her back… wait… no spoilers… Here's an interesting factoid: I read or heard somewhere that Anne Hathaway found out that she had pink-eye when she and Steve Carell k- (oops again, no spoilers - sorry).
If you never watched the TV series – which doesn’t even come on the obscure channels anymore (but hey, there’s always YouTube) – then you probably won’t appreciate the subtle, and not so subtle, tributes the movie gives the series. I found a good number of them, including the cascading iron doors, the phone booth that drops through the floor, the shoe phone, the cone of silence, "Hymie" the robot, the red MG Midget, and of course several of Don Adams' patented comments (of which I think there should have been more). I know there are others that I don't remember, and I'm sure I missed a few.
Bottom line, I have to say I really enjoyed the movie. You really should keep in mind that it is PG-13, and before you decide to take your kids, check out this more complete analysis of the content cautions from crosswalk.com - http://www.crosswalk.com/movies/11577733/page2/ (but beware there might be a spoiler or two in there).
Otherwise, enjoy a good, entertaining movie.
Most retro-remakes are either absolute spoofs (and usually star Leslie Neilson - whom I do not like as an actor whatsoever) or essentially just make fun of the 60s/70s culture (such as with Starsky and Hutch). Get Smart, however, is truly a redo that updates the storyline for today’s culture. On top of that, its really quite funny – thanks primarily to Steve Carell and Dwayne Johnson (who can be surprisingly funny). What’s more, not all of the humor is crude – most, in fact, is not.
I used to love watching the old Don Adams reruns of the Get Smart TV series, so I really enjoyed the movie remake. Steve Carell made a convincing Maxwell Smart – more so than I expected, because I don’t typically enjoy the characters that he portrays (OK, can I say that I hate the fact that I find The Office funny?). Steve Carell’s Maxwell Smart character, however, was not nearly as bumbling as Don Adams. Yes, he was ridiculous. Yes, he was a bit of a buffoon, but it just seems to me that I remember the Don Adams character always beating the bad guys purely by coincidence (or more specifically because of Agent 99). Steve Carell’s character actually did some pretty intelligent things… well, sort of… but I won’t say anymore… no spoilers, you know.
On the other hand, I thought Anne Hathaway did not make a very convincing Agent 99. I enjoyed her portrayal nonetheless. I don’t remember “99” ever being antagonistic towards Maxwell Smart; and even though she came around towards the end of the movie, I thought their conflict was way overplayed… In the series, Agent 99 would have never turned her back… wait… no spoilers… Here's an interesting factoid: I read or heard somewhere that Anne Hathaway found out that she had pink-eye when she and Steve Carell k- (oops again, no spoilers - sorry).
If you never watched the TV series – which doesn’t even come on the obscure channels anymore (but hey, there’s always YouTube) – then you probably won’t appreciate the subtle, and not so subtle, tributes the movie gives the series. I found a good number of them, including the cascading iron doors, the phone booth that drops through the floor, the shoe phone, the cone of silence, "Hymie" the robot, the red MG Midget, and of course several of Don Adams' patented comments (of which I think there should have been more). I know there are others that I don't remember, and I'm sure I missed a few.
Bottom line, I have to say I really enjoyed the movie. You really should keep in mind that it is PG-13, and before you decide to take your kids, check out this more complete analysis of the content cautions from crosswalk.com - http://www.crosswalk.com/movies/11577733/page2/ (but beware there might be a spoiler or two in there).
Otherwise, enjoy a good, entertaining movie.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Know that you know
Yesterday I had to participate in what could only be classified as a "pastorly" activity. As shephed, it happens and you must respond to it. One of the sheep needed counseling. Last Sunday, one of the sweet little old ladies in the assisted living center "congregation" where I serve as Volunteer Pastor came up to me after the service and requested a counseling appointment. This is not that big a deal. I'm not a counselor, but I can listen to her and, if necessary, share with her whatever biblical insight that the Holy Spirit brings to mind. The problem is this: Every pastor knows that he is not the most spiritually mature person in his congregation. There is always that one person (usually a sweet little old lady) whom everyone knows is so close to God that if she says "jump" - then everyone, including the pastor, jumps. This was that little old lady. So yesterday I stopped by her suite at the center for a little visit.
After the pleasantries, she says "last week, you said in your sermon that the church is full of unsaved people..."
Oh no... she's going to tell me how wrong I am and that perhaps I was too harsh or even mean-spirited... get prepared to jump.
"Yes," I replied... and I went on to clarify how my remarks were a commentary on what Jesus said in Matthew 7 and that I believed he meant that there are many in the church who believe they are saved but really are not.
"I want to make sure I really am saved," she said.
WHAT? ARE YOU KIDDING ME? SURELY YOU ARE KIDDING ME? IF ANYONE IN THIS LITTLE CONGREGATION IS SAVED, IT IS YOU... OK, I didn't say that, but I was thinking it. You have to understand. Each Sunday, when I show up at Hearthstone, I always look forward to seeing this lady. The reason is simple. When I see her, I see Jesus. You know what I mean? There are just some people who so reflect the light of Jesus that it evident beyond evident. I want to be that person. I'm not. She is. So no matter how poorly my Sunday morning may have been to that point, her disposition and reflection of Christ is always such an encouragement to me that it almost always helps put me in a great frame of mind for worship. So, despite my thoughts, that is not what I said... What I did say though was this...
"What makes you think you are not saved?"
She went on to talk about her doubts and for the next 30 minutes or so we had a very interesting diatribe about "knowing that you know that you know." She shared her salvation experiences and struggles. I shared mine. She shared her doubts. I shared mine. We discussed the plan of salvation, which she knew in her head, believed in her heart, and for which she placed her faith for salvation. She told me how she shared her doubts with her kids (one of whom is a full time missionary) and how their response was "MOTHER, Don't be rediculous - you're the most saved person I know!"
DUH - That's what I said... not really... just another unspoken thought.
The reality, though, was that she didn't have peace. Her doubts were crippling her. At that point, I shared with her that there were two different types of "doubt" that enter our minds. The first (which really isn't doubt in the truest sense of the word) is the conviction of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit works in us to convict us of our sin and to draw us to God, convincing us of our need for salvation. The second (which really is doubt in the truest sense of the word) is a tool that Satan uses to try to defeat us and make us ineffective Christians. The first makes us think "I am a sinner and I need God." The second makes us think either "God could never accept me" (if you are not already saved) or (if you are saved) "My faith is not enough, so I'm not really saved." I was more than confident that she was experiencing the latter, but only she could come to that conclusion for herself.
The time came in the conversation for me to remind her what Jesus said in Matthew 7:21
Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.
I reminded her that the evidence of our salvation is the fruit in our lives and the fact that we live lives that are obedient to Christ. So I asked her:
"If you look back on your life, would you say that (in general) it has been characterized by obedience to Christ?" It was a risky move on my part, because it was sort of sounding like I was asking her about her good works and whether she deserved salvation as a result... but I was working an angle...
She responded by giving me a short synopsis of her spiritual journey and how she believed she had been obedient and then said the following:
"Not once, though, did I ever think these things were earning me salvation. I didn't do them to be saved. I know that Jesus paid the price for my sin and that is the only way I can be saved. I did them because I wanted to serve Jesus and be obedient."
Eureka. I couldn't have said it any better myself. She didn't live a life of obedience to earn God's favor; she lived a life of obedience because she loved God. We are not saved by our actions. We do not do good works to earn God's favor. Nothing we can do can satisfy our sin debt.... BUT... when we fully place our trust in Him, he changes us inside. We develop a growing desire to serve Him more and more. We become obedient because we love Him, have made him LORD, and have submitted our will to His will.
"And that's how you know..."
After the pleasantries, she says "last week, you said in your sermon that the church is full of unsaved people..."
Oh no... she's going to tell me how wrong I am and that perhaps I was too harsh or even mean-spirited... get prepared to jump.
"Yes," I replied... and I went on to clarify how my remarks were a commentary on what Jesus said in Matthew 7 and that I believed he meant that there are many in the church who believe they are saved but really are not.
"I want to make sure I really am saved," she said.
WHAT? ARE YOU KIDDING ME? SURELY YOU ARE KIDDING ME? IF ANYONE IN THIS LITTLE CONGREGATION IS SAVED, IT IS YOU... OK, I didn't say that, but I was thinking it. You have to understand. Each Sunday, when I show up at Hearthstone, I always look forward to seeing this lady. The reason is simple. When I see her, I see Jesus. You know what I mean? There are just some people who so reflect the light of Jesus that it evident beyond evident. I want to be that person. I'm not. She is. So no matter how poorly my Sunday morning may have been to that point, her disposition and reflection of Christ is always such an encouragement to me that it almost always helps put me in a great frame of mind for worship. So, despite my thoughts, that is not what I said... What I did say though was this...
"What makes you think you are not saved?"
She went on to talk about her doubts and for the next 30 minutes or so we had a very interesting diatribe about "knowing that you know that you know." She shared her salvation experiences and struggles. I shared mine. She shared her doubts. I shared mine. We discussed the plan of salvation, which she knew in her head, believed in her heart, and for which she placed her faith for salvation. She told me how she shared her doubts with her kids (one of whom is a full time missionary) and how their response was "MOTHER, Don't be rediculous - you're the most saved person I know!"
DUH - That's what I said... not really... just another unspoken thought.
The reality, though, was that she didn't have peace. Her doubts were crippling her. At that point, I shared with her that there were two different types of "doubt" that enter our minds. The first (which really isn't doubt in the truest sense of the word) is the conviction of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit works in us to convict us of our sin and to draw us to God, convincing us of our need for salvation. The second (which really is doubt in the truest sense of the word) is a tool that Satan uses to try to defeat us and make us ineffective Christians. The first makes us think "I am a sinner and I need God." The second makes us think either "God could never accept me" (if you are not already saved) or (if you are saved) "My faith is not enough, so I'm not really saved." I was more than confident that she was experiencing the latter, but only she could come to that conclusion for herself.
The time came in the conversation for me to remind her what Jesus said in Matthew 7:21
Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.
I reminded her that the evidence of our salvation is the fruit in our lives and the fact that we live lives that are obedient to Christ. So I asked her:
"If you look back on your life, would you say that (in general) it has been characterized by obedience to Christ?" It was a risky move on my part, because it was sort of sounding like I was asking her about her good works and whether she deserved salvation as a result... but I was working an angle...
She responded by giving me a short synopsis of her spiritual journey and how she believed she had been obedient and then said the following:
"Not once, though, did I ever think these things were earning me salvation. I didn't do them to be saved. I know that Jesus paid the price for my sin and that is the only way I can be saved. I did them because I wanted to serve Jesus and be obedient."
Eureka. I couldn't have said it any better myself. She didn't live a life of obedience to earn God's favor; she lived a life of obedience because she loved God. We are not saved by our actions. We do not do good works to earn God's favor. Nothing we can do can satisfy our sin debt.... BUT... when we fully place our trust in Him, he changes us inside. We develop a growing desire to serve Him more and more. We become obedient because we love Him, have made him LORD, and have submitted our will to His will.
"And that's how you know..."
Thursday, June 12, 2008
On Divisions Within the Church
This one is bound to create a stir...
In my opinion, one of the greatest travesties of the modern church is the endless proliferation of denominational differences. Richard Baxter once said “In necessary things unity, in doubtful things liberty, and in all things charity.” I truly believe this summarizes biblical truth regarding differences of opinion within the church. The scripture teaches the preeminence of unity within the body of Christ.
Rom 15:5 - May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus.
1 Cor 1:10 - I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought.
Eph 4:3 - Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
James 4:1 - What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you?
Unfortunately, the modern Christian community has not really learned to live by biblical truth in this area. I can certainly understand wanting to worship with those who are like minded with yourself, but often we disagree to the point of dissention rather than just preference. My personal opinion is that unless we disagree about the core of the gospel – the “necessary things” – that we really shouldn’t divide ourselves. Of course we then have to come to an agreement as to exactly what “the core of the gospel” means - and there’s the rub.
The problem is not our differences. Differences are important…
1 Cor 11:19 - No doubt there have to be differences among you to show which of you have God's approval.
We need differences to be able to test the spirit and make sure the “core of the gospel” maintains its integrity. Our problem is that our differences divide us. Division is anti-Christian and unfortunately, our history since the Reformation has been full of it. In the early part of the reformation, the two greatest divisors were the nature of the Eucharist (transubstantiation vs. consubstantiation) and Baptism (infant vs. believer’s). Then it became whether or not the Eucharist and Baptism were sacraments – or just symbols. Later it became the type of Baptism (emersion vs. sprinkling vs. pouring). Another great divisor in the early part of the reformation was the style of worship. Should we eliminate everything contrary to scripture (Zwingli) or eliminate everything not specifically required by scripture (Luther) or completely restructure based upon the early NT church (Anabaptists). Now it is all about the type of music and the liturgy (contemporary or traditional). What about glossolalia (i.e. speaking in tongues)? What about the baptism of the Holy Spirit? Then of course, we all know the grand-daddy of all divisors – Arminianism vs. Calvinism.
As a Southern Baptist, I’m afraid this last controversy will absolutely shatter the Southern Baptist Convention before it is over. I know many “non-Calvinist” Baptists who are beginning to drift towards Methodist churches because of the “emergence” of Calvinists in the convention. Likewise, I know quite a few Calvinists who – if it were not for infant baptism – would have long since drifted to the Presbyterian churches. I even know a few – including one of my closest friends - who have started their own home church because of this one issue. I see no benefit to this division! Does it really matter whether I was actively and specifically chosen by God or simply predestined according to the foreknowledge of God? Does it matter whether He chose me or I chose him – so long as the gospel is presented to the lost and they are given the opportunity to repent and believe? Some say it matters (and will criticize me for saying otherwise), but I’m not so sure it really does matter. Maybe the truth is that it is not mutually exclusive after all – maybe both happened simultaneously in a way that is a mystery that our finite minds cannot understand (which is what I believe just for the record)! I don’t think it is exclusively Calvinist to say that I could not believe unless God so enabled me, and I likewise do not think it is exclusively Arminian (or Pelagian) to say that I chose to receive God’s grace by my faith (i.e. I actively accepted it). What is of importance is that Christ has saved me by grace through faith!
Where will it all go? I see two giant steps that Southern Baptists (or really all of us who call ourselves "Christian") can take right now in this regard. The first is to prove to the rest of the Christian (and pagan) world that we can live in unity amidst our differences. I think we’ve already begun to calm the storms surrounding the worship style controversy. We must find a way to do the same with respect to the Arminianism vs. Calvinism controversy and show that both views can live in harmony with each other. It is truly one of Baxter’s “doubtful” things (i.e. both views have merit). Then, we need to reach out to other denominations in a show of unity and find ways to fellowship jointly with them to demonstrate that we are all part of the body of Christ – despite our organizational and doctrinal differences. I recently heard Dr. James MacDonald (Walk in the Word) speak about this and his words from Philippians 1:15-18 were true – if they are preaching Jesus Christ as the only gospel, then Hooray for them! In Christ, we are all one. I’m not speaking of compromise – just unity with respect to “necessary things.” Focus on our similarities – namely the gospel – and not on our differences. By the way, I think we Baptists are as guilty as everyone else. By trying so hard to show our Baptist distinctiveness, we are doing exactly what (I believe) scripture teaches against – distinguishing ourselves. I know; I get it… we want to find some reason for people to come to our church instead of the one across the street. How selfish we are – we should be ashamed.
At this point in history, I do not believe we will ever be able to do away with denominational separations, but we can certainly work towards making them so meaningless that the unsaved world will wonder why they exist in the first place.
In my opinion, one of the greatest travesties of the modern church is the endless proliferation of denominational differences. Richard Baxter once said “In necessary things unity, in doubtful things liberty, and in all things charity.” I truly believe this summarizes biblical truth regarding differences of opinion within the church. The scripture teaches the preeminence of unity within the body of Christ.
Rom 15:5 - May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus.
1 Cor 1:10 - I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought.
Eph 4:3 - Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
James 4:1 - What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you?
Unfortunately, the modern Christian community has not really learned to live by biblical truth in this area. I can certainly understand wanting to worship with those who are like minded with yourself, but often we disagree to the point of dissention rather than just preference. My personal opinion is that unless we disagree about the core of the gospel – the “necessary things” – that we really shouldn’t divide ourselves. Of course we then have to come to an agreement as to exactly what “the core of the gospel” means - and there’s the rub.
The problem is not our differences. Differences are important…
1 Cor 11:19 - No doubt there have to be differences among you to show which of you have God's approval.
We need differences to be able to test the spirit and make sure the “core of the gospel” maintains its integrity. Our problem is that our differences divide us. Division is anti-Christian and unfortunately, our history since the Reformation has been full of it. In the early part of the reformation, the two greatest divisors were the nature of the Eucharist (transubstantiation vs. consubstantiation) and Baptism (infant vs. believer’s). Then it became whether or not the Eucharist and Baptism were sacraments – or just symbols. Later it became the type of Baptism (emersion vs. sprinkling vs. pouring). Another great divisor in the early part of the reformation was the style of worship. Should we eliminate everything contrary to scripture (Zwingli) or eliminate everything not specifically required by scripture (Luther) or completely restructure based upon the early NT church (Anabaptists). Now it is all about the type of music and the liturgy (contemporary or traditional). What about glossolalia (i.e. speaking in tongues)? What about the baptism of the Holy Spirit? Then of course, we all know the grand-daddy of all divisors – Arminianism vs. Calvinism.
As a Southern Baptist, I’m afraid this last controversy will absolutely shatter the Southern Baptist Convention before it is over. I know many “non-Calvinist” Baptists who are beginning to drift towards Methodist churches because of the “emergence” of Calvinists in the convention. Likewise, I know quite a few Calvinists who – if it were not for infant baptism – would have long since drifted to the Presbyterian churches. I even know a few – including one of my closest friends - who have started their own home church because of this one issue. I see no benefit to this division! Does it really matter whether I was actively and specifically chosen by God or simply predestined according to the foreknowledge of God? Does it matter whether He chose me or I chose him – so long as the gospel is presented to the lost and they are given the opportunity to repent and believe? Some say it matters (and will criticize me for saying otherwise), but I’m not so sure it really does matter. Maybe the truth is that it is not mutually exclusive after all – maybe both happened simultaneously in a way that is a mystery that our finite minds cannot understand (which is what I believe just for the record)! I don’t think it is exclusively Calvinist to say that I could not believe unless God so enabled me, and I likewise do not think it is exclusively Arminian (or Pelagian) to say that I chose to receive God’s grace by my faith (i.e. I actively accepted it). What is of importance is that Christ has saved me by grace through faith!
Where will it all go? I see two giant steps that Southern Baptists (or really all of us who call ourselves "Christian") can take right now in this regard. The first is to prove to the rest of the Christian (and pagan) world that we can live in unity amidst our differences. I think we’ve already begun to calm the storms surrounding the worship style controversy. We must find a way to do the same with respect to the Arminianism vs. Calvinism controversy and show that both views can live in harmony with each other. It is truly one of Baxter’s “doubtful” things (i.e. both views have merit). Then, we need to reach out to other denominations in a show of unity and find ways to fellowship jointly with them to demonstrate that we are all part of the body of Christ – despite our organizational and doctrinal differences. I recently heard Dr. James MacDonald (Walk in the Word) speak about this and his words from Philippians 1:15-18 were true – if they are preaching Jesus Christ as the only gospel, then Hooray for them! In Christ, we are all one. I’m not speaking of compromise – just unity with respect to “necessary things.” Focus on our similarities – namely the gospel – and not on our differences. By the way, I think we Baptists are as guilty as everyone else. By trying so hard to show our Baptist distinctiveness, we are doing exactly what (I believe) scripture teaches against – distinguishing ourselves. I know; I get it… we want to find some reason for people to come to our church instead of the one across the street. How selfish we are – we should be ashamed.
At this point in history, I do not believe we will ever be able to do away with denominational separations, but we can certainly work towards making them so meaningless that the unsaved world will wonder why they exist in the first place.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Last Sunday's Sermon
For those (few) of you who may be looking for last Sunday's sermon, I have an interesting story...
First of all, I prepared what I believe to be a fairly decent message on Godly Love. Unfortunately, Saturday night God impressed upon me that he did not really want me preaching that sermon - at least not the next day. Instead, he wanted me to give my personal testimony as it relates to Love - something I did not want to do. I wrestled with it all night, getting very little sleep. However, by morning I was convinced it was the right thing to do.
I'm pretty sure the message went well. Unfortunately, my voice recorder didn't, so I have no record of it. Lot's of coincidences if you believe in coincidences... Maybe I'll get a chance to recreate it in written word.
First of all, I prepared what I believe to be a fairly decent message on Godly Love. Unfortunately, Saturday night God impressed upon me that he did not really want me preaching that sermon - at least not the next day. Instead, he wanted me to give my personal testimony as it relates to Love - something I did not want to do. I wrestled with it all night, getting very little sleep. However, by morning I was convinced it was the right thing to do.
I'm pretty sure the message went well. Unfortunately, my voice recorder didn't, so I have no record of it. Lot's of coincidences if you believe in coincidences... Maybe I'll get a chance to recreate it in written word.
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Movie Review - Prince Caspian
This past weekend, my wife, younger son, and I went to see the new Chronicles of Narnia film based upon the C.S. Lewis book, “Prince Caspian” (directed by Andrew Adamson and released by Walt Disney Pictures). It has been nearly (maybe more than) 25 years since I read the 7-book series by C.S. Lewis. I was in Jr. High at the time and honestly remember very little about the books. Prior to the release of “The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe” (“The Lion”), I specifically took time to re-read the book to refresh myself on the story line. I was pleased at how well the movie followed the book. This time, though I intentionally did not read the book before going to see the movie. I remembered almost nothing about the book, and I wanted to simply enjoy the film as the producers intended. To my shock, it took less than 10 minutes into the film before my brain was flooded with memories from the book. I couldn’t remember every detail about the book, but all the main plot points were there. It is funny how that works.
Of course, the plot to “Prince Caspian” is fairly simple – save Narnia. After the 4 Kings and Queens of Narnia left abruptly at the end of “The Lion,” Narnia was taken over by the evil Telmarines. Only one year passes in London before the children return to Narnia, but hundreds of years have passed in Narnia. During that time, Narnians have been all but eliminated by the Telmarines and are even thought to be extinct, but a small band of Narnians still thrive secretly in the deepest part of the woods.
Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy are transported from a railway station to Narnia when Prince Caspian X – who is running from his uncle, King Miraz, because he is trying to assassinate Caspian and solidify his control over the kingdom - blows Susan’s magical horn. When Prince Caspian learns of the surviving Narnians, he decides to lead them into battle to regain his throne and promises to return Narnia back to its rightful inhabitants. Enter now the Kings and Queens of old. After a very brief encounter between Peter and Caspian, all the “good guys” join forces against the evil King Miraz. Unfortunately, mistakes are made, lots of animals die, the Narnians are besieged, and only Asland can save the day – well not directly, but I don’t want to spoil everything! It is a great story that is extremely well produced with spectacular special effects. Since I haven't gone back yet and re-read “Prince Caspian,” I really can’t say how closely it follows the story. I’m sure the book is much more in depth and contained additional allegory, but honestly I really didn’t mind, because I enjoyed the movie regardless. It was overall a better produced, better filmed, and better acted sequel – and I loved the first movie so much that I bought it when it was released on DVD (technically we bought it for our kids, but we all know better, right). I'm pretty sure Prince Caspian will also be on my DVD shelf before long. Maybe now I will go back and read the book again…
As with “The Lion,” religious and philosophical themes abound in this theatrical adaptation of the great philosopher’s fictional masterpiece. It should be no surprise that Christian allegories abound throughout the film. Here are a few of the major ones:
Of course, the plot to “Prince Caspian” is fairly simple – save Narnia. After the 4 Kings and Queens of Narnia left abruptly at the end of “The Lion,” Narnia was taken over by the evil Telmarines. Only one year passes in London before the children return to Narnia, but hundreds of years have passed in Narnia. During that time, Narnians have been all but eliminated by the Telmarines and are even thought to be extinct, but a small band of Narnians still thrive secretly in the deepest part of the woods.
Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy are transported from a railway station to Narnia when Prince Caspian X – who is running from his uncle, King Miraz, because he is trying to assassinate Caspian and solidify his control over the kingdom - blows Susan’s magical horn. When Prince Caspian learns of the surviving Narnians, he decides to lead them into battle to regain his throne and promises to return Narnia back to its rightful inhabitants. Enter now the Kings and Queens of old. After a very brief encounter between Peter and Caspian, all the “good guys” join forces against the evil King Miraz. Unfortunately, mistakes are made, lots of animals die, the Narnians are besieged, and only Asland can save the day – well not directly, but I don’t want to spoil everything! It is a great story that is extremely well produced with spectacular special effects. Since I haven't gone back yet and re-read “Prince Caspian,” I really can’t say how closely it follows the story. I’m sure the book is much more in depth and contained additional allegory, but honestly I really didn’t mind, because I enjoyed the movie regardless. It was overall a better produced, better filmed, and better acted sequel – and I loved the first movie so much that I bought it when it was released on DVD (technically we bought it for our kids, but we all know better, right). I'm pretty sure Prince Caspian will also be on my DVD shelf before long. Maybe now I will go back and read the book again…
As with “The Lion,” religious and philosophical themes abound in this theatrical adaptation of the great philosopher’s fictional masterpiece. It should be no surprise that Christian allegories abound throughout the film. Here are a few of the major ones:
- Many of the Narnian animals have become dumb brutes – even dangerous wild beasts, because they have been treated as such by the Telmarines – raising questions about the way in which Christians treat each other and the world in general.
- Many of the creatures – and even King Peter himself - have difficulty maintaining faith in Asland because he has been absent so long and has done nothing to ease the pain and suffering of the Narnians, raising questions about our own faith in God given the wicked state in which the world exists today.
- The failures experienced by the Narnian army came as a direct result of their self-dependence, rather than their dependence upon Alsand.
- The manner in which Asland works to ultimately save Narnia is completely unexpected by all parties, and in reality most of the characters in the movie never see the work he performs, reminding us that God always works in his own time, in his own way, and that we do not always recognize or understand his actions. This theme was emphasized in a dream sequence in which Lucy, who is really the only one who truly remained unswervingly faithful to Asland, is told by the great lion that “things never happen the same way twice.”
- During that same encounter, Lucy comments at how Asland has grown, but Asland responds that he grows as she grows, reminding us how our knowledge and understanding of who God is grows as we grow spiritually.
- At the end of the movie, when Asland is giving the kingdom of Narnia to Prince Caspian, Prince Caspian declares his inadequacy to fill the role, but Asland sees this humility as proof of his qualification to serve. This reminds us that we truly can do nothing on our own and that we are also inadequate in our own strength, but that God is looking for our availability and he will enable us as he wills.
To me, though, the greatest religious and philosophical theme was the one that was perhaps the most simple. It occurred near the beginning of the movie when Lucy claims to have seen Asland across a great ravine. She believes that Asland wants them to cross there, but no one else saw him and no one believes she really saw him. After a long detour that ultimately brings them back to the exact same spot to cross the ravine, the others begin to question why they did not see Asland. Her response is so simple, and yet so full of truth – “you did not see him because you were not looking for him.” How often do we miss God simply because we were not looking for him?
Prince Caspian is a fabulous move. Yes it is full of action scenes, war scenes, and violence, but such was the nature of the book. It is still a great family film worth seeing – and probably worth owning.
Monday, June 2, 2008
Movie Review-The Golden Compass
After months of procrastination, I finally broke down and watched the controversial “family” movie, The Golden Compass. As I am sure you are well aware, this movie spawned a tremendous amount of controversy when it was first released and a significant portion of the religious community boycotted the movie due to its supposed anti-religious content. The movie itself is based upon the trilogy by Philip Pullman titled “His Dark Materials” and is supposed to be a fanciful tale of atheistic indoctrination. I have not read these books so I cannot give an opinion on them. Nevertheless, the hype and controversy clearly influenced my opinion of the movie before I ever saw the first introductory credit. If you combine that with the fact that because I only recently completed a seminary-level course on Philosophy of Religion I am acutely aware of the philosophical influences – religious and otherwise – on our culture, then it is no wonder that I decided to watch with an equally acute sense of expectation. With that predisposed bias (I’m trying to be as honest as possible here), I watched the movie and make the following review.
On its surface, the movie appears to be exactly what is proponents claimed it to be - a fanciful epic adventure on the order of “The Chronicles of Narnia” and “The Lord of the Rings”. It is a story of a young girl, Lyra, who lives in a world where a person’s soul lives in an animal creature called a “daemon” that is bound to them for life. The two are intricately intertwined and their survival is co-dependent. To be honest, I thought the high-level plot of the movie was fairly weak. The oppressive, thought-controlling, magistrate has focused all of its formidable power into crushing all views of “truth” except their own. At the same time, the magistrate has decided that all of the evil within the world is the result of the fact that mystical cosmic “dust” – the source of evil – comes to rest on each person’s daemon. Therefore, the only way to rid the world of evil is to devise a means of separating people from their daemons. The magistrate has been stealing children and experimenting on them to perfect this process. Unknown to the magistrate, however, Lyra has come into possession of a golden compass that enables her to see “the truth” that others attempt to hide. While trying to find a friend who had been abducted, Lyra becomes aware of this plot and Lyra’s must do all she can to put an end to the magistrate’s evil plan.
Is it a fanciful story or is it a masterpiece of atheistic indoctrination? Before I answer that question, you should know that I generally approach these types of controversies from the perspective that it should be viewed first as a fictional story before passing any other kind of judgment. In fact, I’ve seen all of the Harry Potter movies and enjoyed them for the stories that they were (although I admit that I didn’t read the books either). Yes, I know, it is fairly liberal for an otherwise ultra-conservative person, but I think sometimes Christians look too hard for things to judge. If I shouldn’t watch Harry Potter, then I shouldn’t watch Indiana Jones, or Iron Man, or Hitch, or any other fanciful story put out by Hollywood. They all represent worldly entertainment produced by worldly individuals. So if I must be judged, I should be judged at the macro level and not at the micro level… So, what do I look for to determine if a movie is appropriate or inappropriate to view? Obviously, I try to steer away from overt sexual immorality. I also try to steer away from gratuitous graphic language (although this is sometimes hard to predict and I must say I have had to walk out of a movie from time to time because of the language). To my own detriment, I must admit that I have a fairly high tolerance for violence – I love war movies of any kind – although too much blood and gore is totally unnecessary. Finally, I try to steer away from movies that are overtly anti-God or anti-religious unless I am watching them strictly for educational purposes… which is why-because of the hype-that I have waited so long to watch The Golden Compass.
With that background, I believe I can answer the question – is it a fanciful story or is it a masterpiece of atheistic indoctrination? My answer is this… It is most definitely the latter, although I suspect all of the target audience will see it as nothing more than the former. Allow me to explain. If the pre-release hype had not been present and if, because of my recent seminary work, I did not have an acute sensitivity to the issue at hand, I doubt I would have made any anti-theistic or anti-religious connections. Despite the really great special effects, I think the story was just plain bad, and the indoctrinating themes were so subtle that most people probably would not see them without being specifically told they were there. But they were there, and perhaps that is what makes the movie so dangerous. The movie is filled with subtle humanist themes. Lyra, the young child who is the hero of the movie, lies multiple times, justifying the dishonest means by the noble ends. The most anti-religious theme is the movie is probably the most subtle. Because the magistrate has determined that evil enters the world through a person’s daemon, they likewise determine the only way to rid the world of evil is to separate mankind from its daemons. The hero must stop this plot, because we are only complete in our humanity when we are fully integrated with our daemons. Think about it.
Personally, I would not recommend this movie because I didn’t like the story. However, I would also not recommend this movie for young children simply because you really don’t know the long-term impact these subtle themes will have on them. Will they see them for what they are? No, but they are getting indoctrinated from so many other areas that we as parents cannot control, why would we voluntarily introduce another one?
On its surface, the movie appears to be exactly what is proponents claimed it to be - a fanciful epic adventure on the order of “The Chronicles of Narnia” and “The Lord of the Rings”. It is a story of a young girl, Lyra, who lives in a world where a person’s soul lives in an animal creature called a “daemon” that is bound to them for life. The two are intricately intertwined and their survival is co-dependent. To be honest, I thought the high-level plot of the movie was fairly weak. The oppressive, thought-controlling, magistrate has focused all of its formidable power into crushing all views of “truth” except their own. At the same time, the magistrate has decided that all of the evil within the world is the result of the fact that mystical cosmic “dust” – the source of evil – comes to rest on each person’s daemon. Therefore, the only way to rid the world of evil is to devise a means of separating people from their daemons. The magistrate has been stealing children and experimenting on them to perfect this process. Unknown to the magistrate, however, Lyra has come into possession of a golden compass that enables her to see “the truth” that others attempt to hide. While trying to find a friend who had been abducted, Lyra becomes aware of this plot and Lyra’s must do all she can to put an end to the magistrate’s evil plan.
Is it a fanciful story or is it a masterpiece of atheistic indoctrination? Before I answer that question, you should know that I generally approach these types of controversies from the perspective that it should be viewed first as a fictional story before passing any other kind of judgment. In fact, I’ve seen all of the Harry Potter movies and enjoyed them for the stories that they were (although I admit that I didn’t read the books either). Yes, I know, it is fairly liberal for an otherwise ultra-conservative person, but I think sometimes Christians look too hard for things to judge. If I shouldn’t watch Harry Potter, then I shouldn’t watch Indiana Jones, or Iron Man, or Hitch, or any other fanciful story put out by Hollywood. They all represent worldly entertainment produced by worldly individuals. So if I must be judged, I should be judged at the macro level and not at the micro level… So, what do I look for to determine if a movie is appropriate or inappropriate to view? Obviously, I try to steer away from overt sexual immorality. I also try to steer away from gratuitous graphic language (although this is sometimes hard to predict and I must say I have had to walk out of a movie from time to time because of the language). To my own detriment, I must admit that I have a fairly high tolerance for violence – I love war movies of any kind – although too much blood and gore is totally unnecessary. Finally, I try to steer away from movies that are overtly anti-God or anti-religious unless I am watching them strictly for educational purposes… which is why-because of the hype-that I have waited so long to watch The Golden Compass.
With that background, I believe I can answer the question – is it a fanciful story or is it a masterpiece of atheistic indoctrination? My answer is this… It is most definitely the latter, although I suspect all of the target audience will see it as nothing more than the former. Allow me to explain. If the pre-release hype had not been present and if, because of my recent seminary work, I did not have an acute sensitivity to the issue at hand, I doubt I would have made any anti-theistic or anti-religious connections. Despite the really great special effects, I think the story was just plain bad, and the indoctrinating themes were so subtle that most people probably would not see them without being specifically told they were there. But they were there, and perhaps that is what makes the movie so dangerous. The movie is filled with subtle humanist themes. Lyra, the young child who is the hero of the movie, lies multiple times, justifying the dishonest means by the noble ends. The most anti-religious theme is the movie is probably the most subtle. Because the magistrate has determined that evil enters the world through a person’s daemon, they likewise determine the only way to rid the world of evil is to separate mankind from its daemons. The hero must stop this plot, because we are only complete in our humanity when we are fully integrated with our daemons. Think about it.
Personally, I would not recommend this movie because I didn’t like the story. However, I would also not recommend this movie for young children simply because you really don’t know the long-term impact these subtle themes will have on them. Will they see them for what they are? No, but they are getting indoctrinated from so many other areas that we as parents cannot control, why would we voluntarily introduce another one?
Sunday, June 1, 2008
GUATEMALA PICTURES ARE HERE!
I think I finally got my Guatemala pictures uploaded so that you all can see them. I have them at WalMart.com, but you should be able to see them by clicking on the link below. I hope that you enjoy them.
http://photos.walmart.com/thumbnailshare/AlbumID=30614783/a=17970053/t_=17970053
http://photos.walmart.com/thumbnailshare/AlbumID=30614783/a=17970053/t_=17970053
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Guatemala Debrief
Sorry for the delay in this...
The 2008 Guatemala Mission Trip was probably one of the most meaningful mission experiences of my life. There is simply no way to capture the full measure of the blessings received as a result of the trip. However, the best way to summarize the insights and lessons learned is to describe the trip in terms of three principles which I believe were so strongly re-enforced as a result of the trip.
The first principle that I saw re-enforced during this mission trip was the principle that we are absolutely dependent upon God. I saw this realized in my life even before the trip began. Due to a death in the immediate family, I was completely distracted and unable to properly prepare for the trip during the week prior to leaving for Guatemala. As such, I had to throw myself on God’s mercy with respect to being ready for the difficulties anticipated during the week. God was gracious in that as Saturday progressed, I could literally feel the stress and pressures of the prior week melt away.
I also saw this principle at work as I entered Guatemala City on Saturday. Immediately, it was obvious that my minimal study of the Spanish language would not help me at all. I immediately understood what it meant to be illiterate, but it was even worse, because I could not even ask for assistance because I was also unable to communicate in the native language. I was totally helpless. I was completely dependent upon the local missionaries, the Guatemalan translators, and the drivers. There was nothing that I could do in which I was not completely dependent upon someone else. This was a stark reminder to the fact that we ought to have the same sense of total dependence upon God. We cannot do anything in our own strength. God is the source of our strength, our power, our very survival. The total dependence upon others reminded me of the need for total dependence upon God.
The second principle that I saw at work during this trip was the absolute importance of prayer. In preparation for the mission trip, I made a concerted effort to find prayer partners here in the states. I had quite a number of people who firmly committed to pray while I was in Guatemala (many of you reading this were in that list). The number of those who committed by written commitment was 15, but there many more who indicated by voice that they would be praying. Most certainly, other team members had similar prayer partners, so only God knows how many people were praying for the team as a whole during this trip. Those prayers were deeply coveted and, in my opinion, extremely beneficial. There is no doubt that those prayers played a role in both the success and the safety of this mission trip.
I also saw this principle at work on the field while in Guatemala. Each day, the team began its efforts with prayer. Additionally, the team did not do any door to door evangelism before covering the streets in prayer via prayer walking. The team prayed specifically for every house they visited. The team prayed that the devil would be bound. The team prayed that doors would be opened. The team prayed that hearts would be receptive. The team prayed that communication would be effective. The team prayed that the Holy Spirit would move over the land. As a result, this mission trip was one of the most successful that I have ever been on. Prior to leaving, the team had prayed for 50 souls to be saved. That prayer was answered, with a total of 51 people making professions of faith in Jesus Christ. Who knows what would have happened if the team had prayed for 100 souls?
The third principle that I saw at work on the Guatemala Mission Trip was the principle that absolutely, God alone deserves all the glory. How ironic it was that in my ministry to the shut-ins at Hearthstone Assisted Living Center that I had prepared a sermon for the upcoming Sunday (the Sunday after the mission trip) on giving God the glory for all that we do, because the Guatemalan Mission Trip supplied me with numerous opportunities for sermon illustrations. How easy it would have been to be the proud Americans going down to Guatemala to minister in the backwards country. How easy it would have been to look down on them for the condition in which they found themselves. How easy it would have been to say “Look at the 51 people that WE led to the Lord”. For me, how easy it would be to be selfishly proud of the fact that every single person that I personally shared his faith with (if memory is correct, 8 in all) received Christ. How easy it would have been to have given credit to the translator that worked with my team, Raul, who was so obviously gifted with the gift of evangelism as well as pastoral skills. He managed to get us into almost every home, set the residents at ease regarding why these “gringos” were invading their home, and prepare them to hear the gospel.
Pride is a terrible enemy of the faithful follower of Christ. The team did none of the things mentioned above. It was God. It was only God, and only God deserves the glory for the wonderful successes the team experienced during this trip. These successes were as much a gift to the team as they were anything else. Souls were eternally changed, and the team had the privilege, honor, and blessing of being a part of it. They did nothing except surrender to the service of God, to whom be the glory, honor, and majesty forever.
Each of these three principles – absolute dependence upon God, the absolute importance of prayer, and absolutely, God alone deserves all the glory – played an important role in the success of this mission trip and shaped my view of how such trips should be approached in the future.
In conclusion, this trip can only be described as an absolute success brought about by the will of God, for the glory of God, as a blessing to those who willing gave of themselves in service to God, so that souls were saved by God. I was honored to be a part of it.
The 2008 Guatemala Mission Trip was probably one of the most meaningful mission experiences of my life. There is simply no way to capture the full measure of the blessings received as a result of the trip. However, the best way to summarize the insights and lessons learned is to describe the trip in terms of three principles which I believe were so strongly re-enforced as a result of the trip.
The first principle that I saw re-enforced during this mission trip was the principle that we are absolutely dependent upon God. I saw this realized in my life even before the trip began. Due to a death in the immediate family, I was completely distracted and unable to properly prepare for the trip during the week prior to leaving for Guatemala. As such, I had to throw myself on God’s mercy with respect to being ready for the difficulties anticipated during the week. God was gracious in that as Saturday progressed, I could literally feel the stress and pressures of the prior week melt away.
I also saw this principle at work as I entered Guatemala City on Saturday. Immediately, it was obvious that my minimal study of the Spanish language would not help me at all. I immediately understood what it meant to be illiterate, but it was even worse, because I could not even ask for assistance because I was also unable to communicate in the native language. I was totally helpless. I was completely dependent upon the local missionaries, the Guatemalan translators, and the drivers. There was nothing that I could do in which I was not completely dependent upon someone else. This was a stark reminder to the fact that we ought to have the same sense of total dependence upon God. We cannot do anything in our own strength. God is the source of our strength, our power, our very survival. The total dependence upon others reminded me of the need for total dependence upon God.
The second principle that I saw at work during this trip was the absolute importance of prayer. In preparation for the mission trip, I made a concerted effort to find prayer partners here in the states. I had quite a number of people who firmly committed to pray while I was in Guatemala (many of you reading this were in that list). The number of those who committed by written commitment was 15, but there many more who indicated by voice that they would be praying. Most certainly, other team members had similar prayer partners, so only God knows how many people were praying for the team as a whole during this trip. Those prayers were deeply coveted and, in my opinion, extremely beneficial. There is no doubt that those prayers played a role in both the success and the safety of this mission trip.
I also saw this principle at work on the field while in Guatemala. Each day, the team began its efforts with prayer. Additionally, the team did not do any door to door evangelism before covering the streets in prayer via prayer walking. The team prayed specifically for every house they visited. The team prayed that the devil would be bound. The team prayed that doors would be opened. The team prayed that hearts would be receptive. The team prayed that communication would be effective. The team prayed that the Holy Spirit would move over the land. As a result, this mission trip was one of the most successful that I have ever been on. Prior to leaving, the team had prayed for 50 souls to be saved. That prayer was answered, with a total of 51 people making professions of faith in Jesus Christ. Who knows what would have happened if the team had prayed for 100 souls?
The third principle that I saw at work on the Guatemala Mission Trip was the principle that absolutely, God alone deserves all the glory. How ironic it was that in my ministry to the shut-ins at Hearthstone Assisted Living Center that I had prepared a sermon for the upcoming Sunday (the Sunday after the mission trip) on giving God the glory for all that we do, because the Guatemalan Mission Trip supplied me with numerous opportunities for sermon illustrations. How easy it would have been to be the proud Americans going down to Guatemala to minister in the backwards country. How easy it would have been to look down on them for the condition in which they found themselves. How easy it would have been to say “Look at the 51 people that WE led to the Lord”. For me, how easy it would be to be selfishly proud of the fact that every single person that I personally shared his faith with (if memory is correct, 8 in all) received Christ. How easy it would have been to have given credit to the translator that worked with my team, Raul, who was so obviously gifted with the gift of evangelism as well as pastoral skills. He managed to get us into almost every home, set the residents at ease regarding why these “gringos” were invading their home, and prepare them to hear the gospel.
Pride is a terrible enemy of the faithful follower of Christ. The team did none of the things mentioned above. It was God. It was only God, and only God deserves the glory for the wonderful successes the team experienced during this trip. These successes were as much a gift to the team as they were anything else. Souls were eternally changed, and the team had the privilege, honor, and blessing of being a part of it. They did nothing except surrender to the service of God, to whom be the glory, honor, and majesty forever.
Each of these three principles – absolute dependence upon God, the absolute importance of prayer, and absolutely, God alone deserves all the glory – played an important role in the success of this mission trip and shaped my view of how such trips should be approached in the future.
In conclusion, this trip can only be described as an absolute success brought about by the will of God, for the glory of God, as a blessing to those who willing gave of themselves in service to God, so that souls were saved by God. I was honored to be a part of it.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
UPDATED: GUATEMALA - Thursday Mid Day
This updates from Sunday through Wednesday
Note: if you are reading this and there are no pictures, please be sure to check back later. Unfortunately, the internet is not very reliable, so I am posting without pictures to make sure the text gets posted and will update a picture at a time…
Day 2 - Sunday
We got up very early this morning to drive 3 hours from Guatemala City to Rio Hondo. Leaving the city, I was truly amazed to see the extreme poverty. Thousands of ramshackle make-shift houses built up and down the mountainsides on the outskirts of Guatemala City (primarily in Zone 3 - these communities are called barrios). I wasn’t able to get any pictures of this, but it was an impressive site. This is in stark contrast with the extreme beauty of the tropical region of Zapata, where we are staying in Rio Hondo. There is still a lot of ugliness and poverty, but where the tropical plants are well cultivated (such as at our hotel – see the pictures), the beauty is overwhelming.
We went to church in Rio Hondo. It was a very small church, but they worshiped Christ very enthusiastically. I had the privilege of being able to give my testimony.
After prayer-walking, we began door-to-door evangelism. The Guatemalans are extremely receptive to the gospel. It is a very religious culture, so hearing the truth of the gospel adds meaning to what might otherwise be empty religious traditions. In all, thirteen people made professions of faith today. We also met several devout Christians whom we had the opportunity to pray with for their needs. Both the salvation experiences as well as meeting Christian brothers and sisters were blessings to the whole team.
We go back to the same street tomorrow to continue door to door evangelism.
I am stilled amazed at the poverty I see… and yet I am told that what we see is generally considered to be middle-class compared to the extreme poverty of Zone 3 in Guatemala City. I am also amazed at the tragedy and suffering. Almost every home is faced with some kind of family crisis or tragedy. Many have family members that have left for the US never to return so they are making it the best they can. Many have lost loved ones to violence, crime, and gang activity. Which reminds me… the crime truly is rampant here. Today we heard gunshots in the distance. This evening, because we were traveling after
dark, several of us “bigger” guys rode in an SUV behind the bus to make it look like we were their security detail… and there are security details everywhere. Stores, restaurants, delivery trucks… they all have armed security details. It is kind of strange going into a Pizza Hut restaurant that has a uniformed guard with a shot-gun standing at the front door.
The church service we went to tonight was probably one of the strangest I’ve ever been to. Of course it was very caliente (hot), but the distractions were enormous. About the time Colby (one of our team) began his sermon, a terrific storm hit. Since the local area has been in a drought, this of course was a big distraction. All the adults were distracted by the rain while the kids were running around jumping and playing. I honestly don’t know how Colby managed. It is bad enough to try to speak with an interpreter, but with all those distractions… despite it all, three came to the Lord at the end of the service.
Tomorrow we go to a nursing home…
Day 5
This morning we finished up our door to door evangelism. Our sub-team was able to lead 4 more people to Christ. In all, the whole team led 51 people to the Lord in 2 ½ days of door to door evangelism. It is humbling to see such a field ripe for harvest for the Lord and yet there is so little time and so few workers to bring in the harvest.
In the afternoon, we went to visit a nursing home, although
it wasn’t exactly a nursing home. It was more like a permanent homeless shelter for the elderly and discarded infants. Essentially, it was a nursing home/nursery/orphanage. It was quite a huge operation. They cared for any elderly they find homeless on the street as well as infants and children they find discarded or unwanted. They partially support themselves through Talapia (yes fish) farms. There are always large missions groups that stay
there and work. They even have a partnership with Liberty College in Lynchburg, VA. (where one of my favorite evangelists – Ergun Caner – serves and teaches). There was actually a group there from Liberty while we toured. Our limited time allowed little more than that tour.
That reminds me… there is actually another group from the US that checked into the hotel yesterday. It was a college group from the University of Texas. They were studying architecture, landscape architecture, and interior design. Why they chose Rio Hondo I have no idea.
Tomorrow (or rather today by the time I get this posted), is a travel day back to Guatemala City.
Note: if you are reading this and there are no pictures, please be sure to check back later. Unfortunately, the internet is not very reliable, so I am posting without pictures to make sure the text gets posted and will update a picture at a time…
Day 2 - Sunday
We got up very early this morning to drive 3 hours from Guatemala City to Rio Hondo. Leaving the city, I was truly amazed to see the extreme poverty. Thousands of ramshackle make-shift houses built up and down the mountainsides on the outskirts of Guatemala City (primarily in Zone 3 - these communities are called barrios). I wasn’t able to get any pictures of this, but it was an impressive site. This is in stark contrast with the extreme beauty of the tropical region of Zapata, where we are staying in Rio Hondo. There is still a lot of ugliness and poverty, but where the tropical plants are well cultivated (such as at our hotel – see the pictures), the beauty is overwhelming.
We went to church in Rio Hondo. It was a very small church, but they worshiped Christ very enthusiastically. I had the privilege of being able to give my testimony.
Tomorrow, we begin door to door evangelism.
Day 3 - Monday
We had a great day today. We began by prayer-walking the street on which we would later do door to door evangelism. The street is very much in the mountains as you can see from the various picture views below. You can also see pictures of the houses on the street below. Houses go up the mountain on one side and down the mountain on the other.
We had a great day today. We began by prayer-walking the street on which we would later do door to door evangelism. The street is very much in the mountains as you can see from the various picture views below. You can also see pictures of the houses on the street below. Houses go up the mountain on one side and down the mountain on the other.
After prayer-walking, we began door-to-door evangelism. The Guatemalans are extremely receptive to the gospel. It is a very religious culture, so hearing the truth of the gospel adds meaning to what might otherwise be empty religious traditions. In all, thirteen people made professions of faith today. We also met several devout Christians whom we had the opportunity to pray with for their needs. Both the salvation experiences as well as meeting Christian brothers and sisters were blessings to the whole team.
We go back to the same street tomorrow to continue door to door evangelism.
Day 4 - Wednesday
Today was yet another great day. Our sub-team led 8 people to the Lord this morning and another three this afternoon. If I have the numbers correct, the whole group has seen about 32 professions of faith since Monday. Truly the fields are ripe unto harvest.
Today was yet another great day. Our sub-team led 8 people to the Lord this morning and another three this afternoon. If I have the numbers correct, the whole group has seen about 32 professions of faith since Monday. Truly the fields are ripe unto harvest.
I am stilled amazed at the poverty I see… and yet I am told that what we see is generally considered to be middle-class compared to the extreme poverty of Zone 3 in Guatemala City. I am also amazed at the tragedy and suffering. Almost every home is faced with some kind of family crisis or tragedy. Many have family members that have left for the US never to return so they are making it the best they can. Many have lost loved ones to violence, crime, and gang activity. Which reminds me… the crime truly is rampant here. Today we heard gunshots in the distance. This evening, because we were traveling after dark, several of us “bigger” guys rode in an SUV behind the bus to make it look like we were their security detail… and there are security details everywhere. Stores, restaurants, delivery trucks… they all have armed security details. It is kind of strange going into a Pizza Hut restaurant that has a uniformed guard with a shot-gun standing at the front door.
The church service we went to tonight was probably one of the strangest I’ve ever been to. Of course it was very caliente (hot), but the distractions were enormous. About the time Colby (one of our team) began his sermon, a terrific storm hit. Since the local area has been in a drought, this of course was a big distraction. All the adults were distracted by the rain while the kids were running around jumping and playing. I honestly don’t know how Colby managed. It is bad enough to try to speak with an interpreter, but with all those distractions… despite it all, three came to the Lord at the end of the service.
Tomorrow we go to a nursing home…
Day 5
This morning we finished up our door to door evangelism. Our sub-team was able to lead 4 more people to Christ. In all, the whole team led 51 people to the Lord in 2 ½ days of door to door evangelism. It is humbling to see such a field ripe for harvest for the Lord and yet there is so little time and so few workers to bring in the harvest.
In the afternoon, we went to visit a nursing home, although
it wasn’t exactly a nursing home. It was more like a permanent homeless shelter for the elderly and discarded infants. Essentially, it was a nursing home/nursery/orphanage. It was quite a huge operation. They cared for any elderly they find homeless on the street as well as infants and children they find discarded or unwanted. They partially support themselves through Talapia (yes fish) farms. There are always large missions groups that stay
there and work. They even have a partnership with Liberty College in Lynchburg, VA. (where one of my favorite evangelists – Ergun Caner – serves and teaches). There was actually a group there from Liberty while we toured. Our limited time allowed little more than that tour.That reminds me… there is actually another group from the US that checked into the hotel yesterday. It was a college group from the University of Texas. They were studying architecture, landscape architecture, and interior design. Why they chose Rio Hondo I have no idea.
Tomorrow (or rather today by the time I get this posted), is a travel day back to Guatemala City.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
UPDATED: Guatemala - DAY 1 - We Are Here
THIS IS BEING UPDATED BECAUSE THE PICTURES DID NOT LOAD EARLIER... sorry...
At the Birmingham Airport - 5am
We made it to Guatemala City without incident… well, except that Dr. Bob Hall got his knife confiscated at the airport. We had to be at the Birmingham Airport at 4am this morning... yikes! Way too early for me... Now that we are here, we are staying at the Arkansas House tonight, but will be traveling to Rio Hondo tomorrow morning before Sunday Church services. I have not had much opportunity to take pictures, but here a just a couple.
Glenna and Keith Bentley are the local Baptist missionaries in Guatemala City. They have been here since December.
At the Birmingham Airport - 5amWe made it to Guatemala City without incident… well, except that Dr. Bob Hall got his knife confiscated at the airport. We had to be at the Birmingham Airport at 4am this morning... yikes! Way too early for me... Now that we are here, we are staying at the Arkansas House tonight, but will be traveling to Rio Hondo tomorrow morning before Sunday Church services. I have not had much opportunity to take pictures, but here a just a couple.
Arriving at Guatemala City airport
The Arkansas House is used to temporarily house incoming or visiting missionaries. It is called the Arkansas House because the Arkansas state missions board rennovated and build portions of it.
Glenna and Keith Bentley are the local Baptist missionaries in Guatemala City. They have been here since December.
One of our interpreters, Freddie... One of our drivers, Louis, with his two kids Louis, Jr. and Leslie.
I don't know if I will have internet access in Rio Hondo, but we will be back here at the Arkansas House on Thursday. I should be able to update then.. if not sooner.
Keep praying for us...
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
A Tale of Two Rich Men
It always amazes me that whenever Jesus gives us a hard lesson, he always provides a way to make it easier to swallow. We, however, tend to take the lesson out of context and make it much more difficult to understand and adopt than is necessary. One such incident occurs in Luke chapters 18 and 19.
The story of the Rich Young Ruler is one that means a great deal to me because for a time I was he. Here was a man that was every bit religious, but his faith was in his wealth and his religion, not in his God. We can only imagine that the reason he sought out Jesus was because the rumor was going around that Jesus had answers to his religious questions. Indeed, his question is a deeply religious one… What must I do to inherit eternal life? However, when confronted with the truth of the answer, he was unwilling to accept it. It is indeed a difficult lesson because it appears to teach that Christians must sell everything they own and live a life of poverty. To make it easier to deal with in our materialistic society, we allegorize it and say that Jesus was really just saying that we need to rid ourselves of anything that hinders us from being saved. Actually, that is not what took place. The answer to the question “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” was not “sell all your possessions.” It was “follow me.” The selling of his positions was just a necessary pre-cursor for that man to be able to follow Jesus. The problem is that we delude ourselves into thinking that our wealth and our affluence are not keeping us from following Jesus. Thus we get Jesus’ words in Luke 18:25 where he says “it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God”. Again, this is a difficult teaching, but then we once again take our comfort in his words that follow where he says (in verse 27) "What is impossible with men is possible with God."
When we look at this teaching from Jesus, we really have to look hard at ourselves to make sure we are not completely deceiving ourselves about the impact of American wealth on our Christianity. We have become so very comfortable and these words apply to us every bit as much as they applied to the rich young ruler. It truly is a hard teaching.
What makes this message easier to accept, however, is not so much the words that everything is possible with God, but rather the very real example that immediately followed in Luke chapter 19. The story of the Rich Young Ruler occurred while Jesus was on his way to Jericho. As Jesus entered Jericho (perhaps the very same day that the Rich Young Ruler approached him outside the city), Jesus met another man - Zacchaeus.
The story of the Rich Young Ruler is one that means a great deal to me because for a time I was he. Here was a man that was every bit religious, but his faith was in his wealth and his religion, not in his God. We can only imagine that the reason he sought out Jesus was because the rumor was going around that Jesus had answers to his religious questions. Indeed, his question is a deeply religious one… What must I do to inherit eternal life? However, when confronted with the truth of the answer, he was unwilling to accept it. It is indeed a difficult lesson because it appears to teach that Christians must sell everything they own and live a life of poverty. To make it easier to deal with in our materialistic society, we allegorize it and say that Jesus was really just saying that we need to rid ourselves of anything that hinders us from being saved. Actually, that is not what took place. The answer to the question “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” was not “sell all your possessions.” It was “follow me.” The selling of his positions was just a necessary pre-cursor for that man to be able to follow Jesus. The problem is that we delude ourselves into thinking that our wealth and our affluence are not keeping us from following Jesus. Thus we get Jesus’ words in Luke 18:25 where he says “it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God”. Again, this is a difficult teaching, but then we once again take our comfort in his words that follow where he says (in verse 27) "What is impossible with men is possible with God."When we look at this teaching from Jesus, we really have to look hard at ourselves to make sure we are not completely deceiving ourselves about the impact of American wealth on our Christianity. We have become so very comfortable and these words apply to us every bit as much as they applied to the rich young ruler. It truly is a hard teaching.
What makes this message easier to accept, however, is not so much the words that everything is possible with God, but rather the very real example that immediately followed in Luke chapter 19. The story of the Rich Young Ruler occurred while Jesus was on his way to Jericho. As Jesus entered Jericho (perhaps the very same day that the Rich Young Ruler approached him outside the city), Jesus met another man - Zacchaeus.
As a children’s story, we focus on the fact that Zacchaeus was a short man who had to climb a tree just to see Jesus, but that is not the real story here. Like the Rich Young Ruler, Zacchaeus was a very wealthy man. He had also put his faith in his wealth, but he did not claim to be religious in any way. In fact, he was a cheat and a scoundrel. Why didn’t Jesus tell him to sell everything he owned? Surely a man who made his riches through corruption would have more of a need to rid himself of his “evil” wealth than the religious rich man. Unfortunately, Luke doesn’t tell us exactly what Jesus said to him. All we know is that Jesus ate with him that evening, and as a result Zacchaeus voluntarily took action to remedy all his past wrongs and to stop being corrupt. Zacchaeus did not sell everything he owned, nor is there anything to suggest that he lived out the remainder of his life in poverty. I suspect he remained fairly well off. Yet Jesus tells us in Luke 19:9 regarding Zacchaeus, "Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham.” Thus we have the real story of Zacchaeus - a rich man enters the kingdom of God immediatly after Jesus tells his disciples that it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle... God showed us that it wasn’t so impossible after all when God gets involved in changing the heart. Zaccaeus didn’t have to sell everything he owned. He only had to admit to and repent of his wrongdoing and follow Jesus.
Here were two rich men. Both sought out Jesus. Both had a choice to make. To repent of their wrongdoing and follow Jesus. The Rich Young Ruler’s wrongdoing was his faith in his wealth. Zacchaeus’ wrongdoing was the corrupt manner in which he obtained his wealth. The difference is that one made a choice to repent and the other did not. What will be your choice?
Here were two rich men. Both sought out Jesus. Both had a choice to make. To repent of their wrongdoing and follow Jesus. The Rich Young Ruler’s wrongdoing was his faith in his wealth. Zacchaeus’ wrongdoing was the corrupt manner in which he obtained his wealth. The difference is that one made a choice to repent and the other did not. What will be your choice?
Monday, May 12, 2008
When You Can't Go On...Persevere
Several years ago a co-worker of mine and I had to take a business trip to Phoenix, AZ. While there, we decided to climb Camelback Mountain. Camelback is a large rock formation that rises 1200 feet above the city below and it looks like… well, like the back of a camel. It has a trail that you can climb up to the top of the mountain. It is not an easy trail. At times you have something that resembles stairs. At other times you have rails to help pull you along the incline. But at other times, you are literally rock climbing. Not being in the best of shape (although admittedly better then than now), it was a very difficult uphill climb for me. I thought I would never make it to the top. I kept thinking “surely, the top is around this next turn” or “over this next ridge” but the summit kept alluding me. About the time I reached a spot that was about 100 yards from the top, I realized that I could not go another inch. This last 100 yards was the hardest of all. It was a steep, sloping incline with no steps, no rails, no rock formations to hang on to. I would probably have to scramble up the slope on my hands and knees. I just couldn’t do it. I just couldn’t go on. My legs were burning. I had no strength left. I had reached the end of what I could bear. I was ready to give up, so I called my buddy (who was already at the top) on his mobile phone and told him that I couldn’t make it.
Sometimes, we reach a point in our Christian life where we feel like we simply cannot go any further. We feel like we’ve given everything we have to give. We’ve endured all we can endure. The pain is too great. The burden is too heavy. We just want to give up.
Cheer up. Those are precisely the times when God can give us the strength to persevere. It’s easy to live the Christian life when things are easy – how’s that for a statement of the obvious. It’s even easy to live the Christian life when things are less than easy. But when things are at their darkest, that’s when living the Christian life has its greatest rewards. We will face temptation in this world. We will face tribulation in this world. Both of these trials builds within us perseverance, and perseverance through the trials results in many blessings.
When I called my friend on the phone, he told me that it was fine if I wanted to give up, but I would have gone all that distance and faced all that pain without having experienced the reward of the view from the top. So… I dug deep and found the strength to clamor up that last 100 yards of extreme pain. The reward was the most amazing view I had ever seen. From that summit, you could see the entire city. In the late afternoon sun, the view was astonishing… Blessings do await those who persevere. James 1:12 says
Sometimes, we reach a point in our Christian life where we feel like we simply cannot go any further. We feel like we’ve given everything we have to give. We’ve endured all we can endure. The pain is too great. The burden is too heavy. We just want to give up.
Cheer up. Those are precisely the times when God can give us the strength to persevere. It’s easy to live the Christian life when things are easy – how’s that for a statement of the obvious. It’s even easy to live the Christian life when things are less than easy. But when things are at their darkest, that’s when living the Christian life has its greatest rewards. We will face temptation in this world. We will face tribulation in this world. Both of these trials builds within us perseverance, and perseverance through the trials results in many blessings.
When I called my friend on the phone, he told me that it was fine if I wanted to give up, but I would have gone all that distance and faced all that pain without having experienced the reward of the view from the top. So… I dug deep and found the strength to clamor up that last 100 yards of extreme pain. The reward was the most amazing view I had ever seen. From that summit, you could see the entire city. In the late afternoon sun, the view was astonishing… Blessings do await those who persevere. James 1:12 says Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
If you want to hear more about the blessings that await those who persevere, click on the link below to hear this week’s sermon.
Perseverance: Blessings Still Await
If you want to hear more about the blessings that await those who persevere, click on the link below to hear this week’s sermon.
Perseverance: Blessings Still Await
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Will You Cry "Lord, Lord"?
One of the greatest sermons Jesus ever spoke was the Sermon on the Mount. As he was closing his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said (in Matthew chapter 7):
"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.”
Most of us have read or heard these words and basically understand them to mean that there is only one way to heaven and that the majority of the world will fail to accept it. However, it is the words that follow that ought to make us think. Jesus next says:
“Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.”
The wolves in sheep’s clothing are, of course, those who claim to be religious leaders who really are of the enemy. I was thinking about these words recently and thought about how true that has been throughout history. False prophets have always been among us, deceiving the flock.
In the first century church, there were significant influences from Judiazers who tried to enslave Christians to the law.
In the second and third century church, there were significant influences from those who denied the humanity of Christ, including the Gnostics and the Manicheans, as well as those who denied that our God is also the God of the Old Testament - the Marcionites.
In the early medieval period, there were significant influences that denied the Trinity.
In the later medieval period, the church itself became corrupt, introducing significant heresies into the orthodox doctrine and committing atrocities in the name of Jesus.
During the reformation, those who claimed to be Christians took the lives of others who claimed to be Christians over issues of doctrine.
In the 17th-early 20th centuries, the “Enlightened” denied the supernatural influences in scripture, including the virgin birth of Jesus as well as his resurrection.
Even today, post-modern influences suggest that the truth of scripture is whatever God reveals it to be to you – which might be different than what he reveals it to be to me.
Of course, this is only a sampling. I would argue that there are numerous heresies in the “church” today (after all, just watch religious TV for a while and I think you would agree with me). One has to wonder how effective these false prophets have been at leading the flock astray. I’ve always believed that the truly regenerate church (those who are actually saved) is much smaller than our church roles indicate. The question is… how much smaller. After speaking of these false prophets, Jesus went on to say:
"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'”
There are three important things I notice in these words. First, we are not saved by a simple prayer. Modern evangelicalism has done us a great disservice by telling us that if we would just say this prayer or that prayer we will be saved. Prayer will not save us – unless that prayer is one that is genuinely acknowledging and accepting God’s grace through faith. Second. It is absolutely possible to deceive yourself about your own spiritual condition. Those lost souls that Jesus mentions here truly believed that they were saved. Could I be so self-deceived? Could you? Finally, if you look very closely, these were not Sunday pew-sitters that were self-deceived. They were leaders. They were preachers (“did we not prophesy in your name”). They were dedicated, committed, hard workers… but they were lost. That means that we can expect preachers, deacons, elders, Sunday School teachers, and committed volunteers to be among those who find themselves unexpectedly in Hell. None of us are exempt from potential self-delusion. That is why Paul says in 2 Corinthians 13:5-6
“Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test? And I trust that you will discover that we have not failed the test.”
Jesus alludes to the “grading key” for that test when he describes these false prophets…
“By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.” (Mt 7:16-20)
We are not saved by our good works. We are saved by grace through faith. However, if that faith is real and genuine, God's saving grace will transform us into a new creation. We must be different. We cannot be like the world around us. If we are, then we have not experienced the new birth. When I look at the church rolls and the pews on Sunday morning, I cannot help but wonder how many there are living in a state of spiritual self-delusion. Is it 7 of 10, 8 of 10, higher? If the fruit of our lives are any indication, then it is at least that high.
Examine yourself. Will you be one who cries, “Lord, Lord”?
"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.”
Most of us have read or heard these words and basically understand them to mean that there is only one way to heaven and that the majority of the world will fail to accept it. However, it is the words that follow that ought to make us think. Jesus next says:
“Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.”
The wolves in sheep’s clothing are, of course, those who claim to be religious leaders who really are of the enemy. I was thinking about these words recently and thought about how true that has been throughout history. False prophets have always been among us, deceiving the flock.
In the first century church, there were significant influences from Judiazers who tried to enslave Christians to the law.
In the second and third century church, there were significant influences from those who denied the humanity of Christ, including the Gnostics and the Manicheans, as well as those who denied that our God is also the God of the Old Testament - the Marcionites.
In the early medieval period, there were significant influences that denied the Trinity.
In the later medieval period, the church itself became corrupt, introducing significant heresies into the orthodox doctrine and committing atrocities in the name of Jesus.
During the reformation, those who claimed to be Christians took the lives of others who claimed to be Christians over issues of doctrine.
In the 17th-early 20th centuries, the “Enlightened” denied the supernatural influences in scripture, including the virgin birth of Jesus as well as his resurrection.
Even today, post-modern influences suggest that the truth of scripture is whatever God reveals it to be to you – which might be different than what he reveals it to be to me.
Of course, this is only a sampling. I would argue that there are numerous heresies in the “church” today (after all, just watch religious TV for a while and I think you would agree with me). One has to wonder how effective these false prophets have been at leading the flock astray. I’ve always believed that the truly regenerate church (those who are actually saved) is much smaller than our church roles indicate. The question is… how much smaller. After speaking of these false prophets, Jesus went on to say:
"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'”
There are three important things I notice in these words. First, we are not saved by a simple prayer. Modern evangelicalism has done us a great disservice by telling us that if we would just say this prayer or that prayer we will be saved. Prayer will not save us – unless that prayer is one that is genuinely acknowledging and accepting God’s grace through faith. Second. It is absolutely possible to deceive yourself about your own spiritual condition. Those lost souls that Jesus mentions here truly believed that they were saved. Could I be so self-deceived? Could you? Finally, if you look very closely, these were not Sunday pew-sitters that were self-deceived. They were leaders. They were preachers (“did we not prophesy in your name”). They were dedicated, committed, hard workers… but they were lost. That means that we can expect preachers, deacons, elders, Sunday School teachers, and committed volunteers to be among those who find themselves unexpectedly in Hell. None of us are exempt from potential self-delusion. That is why Paul says in 2 Corinthians 13:5-6
“Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test? And I trust that you will discover that we have not failed the test.”
Jesus alludes to the “grading key” for that test when he describes these false prophets…
“By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.” (Mt 7:16-20)
We are not saved by our good works. We are saved by grace through faith. However, if that faith is real and genuine, God's saving grace will transform us into a new creation. We must be different. We cannot be like the world around us. If we are, then we have not experienced the new birth. When I look at the church rolls and the pews on Sunday morning, I cannot help but wonder how many there are living in a state of spiritual self-delusion. Is it 7 of 10, 8 of 10, higher? If the fruit of our lives are any indication, then it is at least that high.
Examine yourself. Will you be one who cries, “Lord, Lord”?
Monday, May 5, 2008
Self Control and Popcorn
I love popcorn. I can’t go to a good movie unless I have a big bag (or bucket) of popcorn to nibble on throughout the movie. Popcorn is a really interesting picture of self control. Inside the kernel, mixed with the proteins and nutrients, there is moisture (which can characterize our natural passions and weaknesses). Outside the kernel is the hull, holding in the seed contents (which can characterize our human desire to keep our passions and weaknesses under control). Whenever heat is applied (which can characterize external pressures and temptations that draw upon our desires and weaknesses), the moisture within the kernel heats up, wishing to expand. The hull does its best to hold in the expanding moisture vapors until it can do so no longer, resulting in a violent explosion – and a yummy piece of popcorn. Unfortunately, the popcorn picture of self-control is not so yummy. When the external pressures feed on our internal desires and weaknesses beyond our ability to control them, the result is just as violent as popcorn, but it very ugly and anything but yummy.
Self-control is an important defender of our Christian testimony. Consider how quickly your life and your testimony can be destroyed because of a lack of self-control. Unfortunately, we cannot maintain our self-control on our own merits. Unlike popcorn, which often leaves a few kernels un-popped, we all – in our own strength - eventually fail to contain our passions and weaknesses.
For this reason, self-control is a fruit of the Holy Spirit. However, if you read 2 Peter 1:5-7, you can see that it is also a fruit of knowledge - knowledge of God and of yourself. Plus, when you read elsewhere in scripture, you also find that self-control is a fruit of self-discipline and spiritual exercise. How can this be? It appears to be a contradiction, but really it is not. Self control is possible through a knowledge of God (and of ourselves), is empowered by the Holy Spirit, and is perfected through disciplined application within our lives.
In our pilgrimage from goodness to godliness, we all need to perfect self-control in our lives so that we may overcome the temptations that the enemy sets before us and so defend our Christian testimony.
To hear more about self control, click on the link below to listen to the sermon, Self Control: The Ultimate Self Defense.
Self-Control: The Ultimate Self Defense
http://www.box.net/shared/ydjnoj5a88
Self-control is an important defender of our Christian testimony. Consider how quickly your life and your testimony can be destroyed because of a lack of self-control. Unfortunately, we cannot maintain our self-control on our own merits. Unlike popcorn, which often leaves a few kernels un-popped, we all – in our own strength - eventually fail to contain our passions and weaknesses.
For this reason, self-control is a fruit of the Holy Spirit. However, if you read 2 Peter 1:5-7, you can see that it is also a fruit of knowledge - knowledge of God and of yourself. Plus, when you read elsewhere in scripture, you also find that self-control is a fruit of self-discipline and spiritual exercise. How can this be? It appears to be a contradiction, but really it is not. Self control is possible through a knowledge of God (and of ourselves), is empowered by the Holy Spirit, and is perfected through disciplined application within our lives.
In our pilgrimage from goodness to godliness, we all need to perfect self-control in our lives so that we may overcome the temptations that the enemy sets before us and so defend our Christian testimony.
To hear more about self control, click on the link below to listen to the sermon, Self Control: The Ultimate Self Defense.
Self-Control: The Ultimate Self Defense
http://www.box.net/shared/ydjnoj5a88
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