“Everything Old is New Again”
We are all encouraged by a leader, who stirs us, to move ahead, someone who believes we can do the task, we have been given. Certain leaders empower us to do, and accomplish, great things.
Martin Luther King once said;
“I have been to the mountain top, and I have seen the Promised Land. I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight that we, as a people, will get to the Promised Land. And I’m happy, tonight. I’m not worried about anything. I am not fearing, any man. Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord.”
Martin Luther King had a dream, and had a vision. He knew changed was needed, and he knew it would come at a cost; but he knew it was needed, none-the-less.
Change is never easy, it requires the acknowledgement, of something not working, and the willingness, to try something untested.
Today’s scripture deals with the New Covenant that was coming, and the Old Covenant that would soon be replaced.
But, before we go on, let me explain…
A Covenant is a binding obligation, a promise, a mutual agreement or contract; with conditions, expectations, and consequences spelled out. It is an Agreement, a Bond, a Pact, a Pledge, and a Guarantee.
First question:
Who was replacing the Old Covenant?
Well, that would be the Lord, God. Through out history, God has made many covenants with His people. Generally speaking, there are 7 agreed upon covenants, found in the Bible, made between God and mankind:
1. In the Garden of Eden, Genesis 3, God promised to Adam and Eve that from the point of the Great Fall -forward, Satan and mankind would be enemies.
2. Also in Genesis, 9, God made a pack with Noah, after the Great Flood, that He would never again destroy the earth with water. The sign of His promise, was the rainbow, which we all have seen many, many times.
3. Then, in Genesis 15 & 17, as we looked at 2 weeks ago, was God’s promise to Abraham, that Abraham descendants would become a great nation; and God would love them forever.
4. At Mount Sinai, in Exodus 19, a promise was made in which Israel would be God’s special people, a Holy Nation. The sign here, did not go un-noticed, as God made possible (for all to see and witness) the Great Exit from Egypt.
5. Then, in Numbers 25, the Pledge of Priesthood, where God promised that Aaron’s descendants would be priests - forever. And the sign that sealed the deal, was actually the Aaronic Priesthood.
6. In 2 Samuel 7 & 23, God promised that Salvation would come through David’s family line, through the birth of the Great Messiah, JC. And the sign, was that David’s line would continued, and that the Messiah, was born, a true descendant of David. That was the Bond that guaranteed our Salvation.
7. The 7th Covenant found in the Bible (in Jeremiah 31 and Hebrews 8), the covenant that we are focused on today, is the New Covenant, the New Promise, the New Agreement, the New Pledge, made with our ancestors (through adoption), by God.
This new covenant promised that forgiveness and salvation are available through faith in Jesus; and the sign was, and the sign is, something we will celebrate in a few weeks, the Resurrection of Christ – at Easter.
So, who was bringing in this new covenant – that was God.
Second question:
What was wrong with the Old Covenant?
The foundation of what we call the Old Covenant is found in God’s laws; handed down by Moses; when Moses met God at the Burning Bush - at Mount Sinai. Moses brought forth the 10 Commandments, God’s Laws; to which God said to the nation of Israel, in Exodus 19: 5-6;
“Now, if you will obey Me, and keep My covenant, you will be My own special treasure, from among all the nations of the earth…And you will be to Me, a Kingdom of Priests, My Holy Nation…”
Simply, the Covenant said, that if the Israelites would follow God’s laws (the 10 Commandments) then they would be God’s special people.
In Exodus 19:8, the people agreed;
“We will certainly do everything the Lord asks of us.”
But, that is not the end of the story, it was only the beginning - the beginning (some say) of the end; for God’s people soon turned against this covenant, they failed to live-up to their agreement, they broke the promise they made with God.
So, What was wrong with the Old Covenant? Nothing really, it was just that the people could not keep it. They continued to sin; “falling short of the glory of God.”
Because of Adam and Eve, and the Great Fall, in the Garden of Eden, all of mankind was inherent-ly sinful. So, for mankind, to try and keep all the laws of Moses, was unrealistic and unattainable.
God recognized this, still wanted the best for His Chosen People, and knew the Old Covenant, in that perspective, was flawed.
What was wrong with the Old Covenant?
I feel, it was simply too high a goal to achieve; the bar was set too high, and the expectation was too great – to follow all those laws. That’s what I think.
Questions 3 & 4:
When and where was the Old Covenant replaced, can be answered together.
The setting was between 627–585 BC, during Jeremiah’s ministry, as prophet to the nation of Israel; and more specifically, the southern kingdom of Judah, and its capital city, Jerusalem.
Because of the sins of Israel, Jerusalem is destroyed, the Temple ruined, and the people were captured and carried off to Babylon. The people were totally responsible for their own hardships, because they refused to listen to God’s warnings, delivered by His prophet, Jeremiah.
It was the time of exile for the Israelites, but after 70 years, God calls His people back to their homeland; and He makes this vow to them.
31 The time is coming," declares the LORD, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah.
The Old Covenant was forever linked to what we do, and don’t do; in relation to the Laws – not in relation to our love for God. The Laws of Moses were to be a guidepost, but in reality, the laws simply highlighted everything the people did wrong.
32 It will not be like the covenant I made with their forefathers, when I took them by the hand, to lead them out of Egypt, because they broke my covenant, though I was a husband to them," declares the LORD.
God made those laws to help the Israelites live a better life, but they had to learn the laws. So, the Israelites, were like us today, as we often learn by “trail & error.” And, God realized that “trail & error” often meant making mistakes, but God also realized that it was a process – a learning curve.
33 This is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel after that time, declares the LORD. I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.
Here, God says that the NC is not concerned with the letter of the law, but with the intent; the spirit of the covenant. Moral understanding will come from knowing God, instead of knowing God’s laws. And, since we know Him, we would want to become like Him.
The real difference is ‘knowing God,’ as opposed to ‘knowing the law.’ And, since we know God, we would also know His moral rights.
That’s the difference between writing it, on a stone tablet, and it being written on our hearts. That knowledge will not be taught by instructors, but will be the product of the divine fellowship with God – which is knowing God.
34 No longer will a man teach his neighbor, or a man his brother, saying, Know the LORD, because they will all know me, from the least of them - to the greatest, declares the LORD.
In this covenant community, that divine society, the knowledge of Yahweh, will be equally available to all; from the least to the greatest. From those most important, to those who seem insignificant. From the poor to the rich; from those of noble standing, to those who simply stand by and watch.
For everyone, and all of you, will be able to posses this knowledge of the Lord.
But, be reminded, that this New Covenant, at this point in time, was not yet fulfilled; for God declared in verse 31;
The time is coming, when I will make a new covenant…
God knew of the mistakes made by His people, within that Old Covenant; and He knew that a New and Improved Covenant must be shaped. And it wasn’t that God was lowering His standards or expectations, or changing the Laws already set-down by Moses, He was changing how the people would come to know the Law.
By coming to know God, and striving to be like Him, we are also following His laws. So, by accepting God into our hearts, coming to know and love God, we are following the laws of the Old Covenant; which is the foundation of the New Covenant.
The Old Testament prophesizes the New Covenant, which is fulfilled in the coming of the Great Messiah. Not only was Jesus, the fulfillment of the Old Testament scriptures, He was also, and more importantly, the actualization of the New Covenant – for He was the New Covenant.
Question 5:
Why was the Old Covenant being replaced?
To make way for the New Covenant, Jesus Christ. The New Covenant, as outlined, and referenced to the New Testament, was the fulfillment of all that was foretold in the Old Testament; and something the Old Covenant could not do.
The OC signifies God’s pledge to save, and keep a people for Himself, but, the NC signifies God’s love for us – through Jesus Christ.
The former covenant needed to be replaced by the new covenant, because of human frailty. So, the Lord had to either reduce His demands – until they were within the range of human powers, or else change the heart of man.
And, since the Laws reflect the true nature of God, and therefore are unchangeable, God could not reduce or change His standards, without ceasing to be Himself. So, He created the New Covenant as a way of changing the hearts of man, to match the requirements of His Laws.
And how would this New Covenant do this;
The law would be written within the individual’s heart, the people would have fellowship with Yahweh, they would posses a perceptive and insightful knowledge of God, and by the forgiveness of sins.
God made this promise;
For I will forgive their wickedness, and, will remember their sins, no more.
Conclusion
Because of, and through this New Covenant, we have this wonderful opportunity to make a fresh start, and establish a permanent, personal relationship with God. Jesus came to enact that promise.
We are all encouraged by a leader, who stirs us, to move ahead, someone who believes we can do the task, we have been given. Certain leaders empower us to do, and accomplish, great things.
God is that kind of leader. He made the first covenant with us and then realized we could not fulfill that promise, so, in His deep love for us, and through His mercy and grace, created a covenant that could be fulfilled – through Jesus.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you, and not to harm you; plans to give you hope and a future.”
Because, everything old, is new again!
Let’s pray;
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Monday, February 18, 2008
Almost Persuaded
Almost Persuaded
Brian Reid, NTUBC, February 17, 2008
(Story; The Perfect Gift)
God uses us, in extraordinary ways; as we serve, give, and help those around us. But, he also uses our mistakes as well.
John the elderly carpenter, had lost his glasses, a stupid thing to do, after spending all the money his family had on them. But, God used that mistake, as a blessing to someone else.
God works in mysterious and amazing ways.
Could it be, that God wants to use your mistake, in an extraordinary way? Could it be, that the purpose of your mistake, is to serve as a warning for someone else?
God uses our sin, for noble purposes. A mistake I make, the punishment I receive, and all that I loose, sets an example, and provides a warning for someone else. A ‘don’t do this’ message.
Temptation is an enticement, a lure, bait, to get you to do something (that you wouldn’t normally do), something you know is wrong, something you don’t want to do, but the appeal and attraction is too strong to resist.
James 1:14 tells us;
“Temptation comes from the lure of…our own evil desires.”
And even though we may be new creations in Christ, some of our old sinful ways linger – mainly, because they serve a purpose. Either, as a connection back to sin, or, a path that leads to God’s strength.
Temptation is a test; a test of our self-control. Christians often wonder, after becoming a follower of Christ, why they still have such attractions.
God (sometimes) allows Satan to tempt us, in order to refine our faith, and to help us grow in dependence on Him. We can resist the temptation to sin, by turning to God for strength and choosing to obey His Word.
We must defend ourselves against these attacks; also, we must not allow ourselves to be drawn into situations, where our self-control is weakened, and the danger of sin awaits. This is where temptation is born, and develops, into sin.
Temptation comes when we least expect it, and it can, and often does, disguise itself as a need or a want. It comes, first as a simple thought, then as that idea lingers, it evolves into a pulling and a longing. Left unchecked, this idea will be amplified, into a full-blown deception; resulting in a sin.
So, how do we defend ourselves against such trickery?
Exactly how Jesus did: through prayer, by the support of our Christian friends, and by going to the scriptures.
In the new Testament, we find many examples of how Jesus got away from the crowds, and separated Himself from His disciples. Luke 5:16; “Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.”
Jesus also visited with His friends, as a way to renew and rejuvenate Himself; such when He visited with Martha and Mary – in Luke 10.
Sometimes, that is all that is needed, a time away, to regain one's composure and recapture one’s self-control. Such when Jesus heard about the death of John the Baptist - in Matthew 14, He went off by Himself to be alone.
But, the most secure way, we can defend ourselves against such temptations, is to search the scriptures, return to the Word, seeking refuge in the Good News of the Gospel. Your Bible is your greatest protection against temptation.
(The Temptation of Christ)
As we look at our scripture lesson for today, let me set the scene for you:
Just before this, John baptizes Jesus, in the River Jordan; and just after this, Jesus begins His ministry in Galilee.
So, here, is Satan’s last ditch effort to derail, disable, and destroy Jesus’ ministry; and all the wonderful things that will come from it. And that’s what we’re looking at today.
Verse 1;
After Jesus was baptized, He was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, to be tempted by the Devil.
This temptation was actually, a testing - for the purposing of proving. God tests the faith of the righteous, and Jesus was no exception.
The Devil hoped to prove Jesus, unfaithful to His Father, but God allowed Jesus to be tempted, to show that He was the Son of God, able to overcome the Devil - and all his tricks and lies.
God also led Israel into the Wilderness, to humble and test them. We, too, will be tested, and it is through, true obedience to God that our trails will short-lived.
Verse 2;
Jesus fasted forty days and forty nights, and the tempter came and said;
“If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.”
Hunger is one of the most, basic, human, needs, and since Jesus was fully human, Satan thought this might be Jesus’ breaking point.
But Jesus answered;
“It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God’”
Next, in verse 5;
The Devil took Him to the Holy City, Jerusalem, and set Him on the pinnacle of the temple, and said;
“If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written, ‘He will give angels charge over You, and on their hands they will bear You up, lest You strike Your foot against a stone.’”
Here, Satan was counting on Jesus’ human condition of dissatisfaction with God’s methods and timing. Often, we loose faith, and (almost) demand, that God do something to prove His existence, and His love for us. We should never try and manipulate God, by asking for signs; when they’re all around us.
In verse 7, Jesus responded;
“Again it is written, ‘You shall not test the Lord your God.’”
Then, the Devil took Jesus to a very high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world, and the Devil said;
“All these I will give You, if You will fall down and worship me.”
Here is another one of the many lies from Satan. He had no power what-so-ever, to give Jesus (or anybody else) the nations of the world. Satan was trying to distort Jesus’ perspective, by making Him focus on worldly power – and not on God’s divine plan.
Also, Satan was trying to trick Jesus into worshiping him.
Jesus then replied; verse 10;
“Begone, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord, your God, and Him, only, shall you serve.’”
Finally, Jesus rebuked Satan by telling him that only God deserved worship and service; thus Jesus overcame, conquered, and crushed Satan’s last and final temptation.
The Devil left Him, and behold, angels came and ministered to Him.
The temptations of Satan are strong, many and relentless, but through the scriptures we can conquer all of them – just as Jesus had done.
Conclusion
But, what about those times when temptation is too strong to overcome, and you slip and fall – you sin.
Well, God uses us in extraordinary ways, and, he also uses our mistakes as well. Remember, John the elderly carpenter, and his mistake, and how God used those glasses to bring a blessing, to someone else, half-way around the world.
Your mistake, your sin, your giving in to temptation, could be a blessing (in disguise) for someone else.
Also, your mistake could set an example for someone else – not, to follow. What a gift, what an amazing gift you could give to someone else.
In essence, your example of wrong-doing has said to that person; “I have made this choice, I have done this, and it was the wrong thing to do – so be warned, and don’t make the same mistake that I have made.”
Even though you may have done something so very stupid, God has taken that and used it for good.
As Phyllis, Larry, and April will agree;
“The whole point of teachers, is for those being taught, to get along without a teacher.”
For those of us, who make a bad choose, who sin, or give in to temptation, we can be called teachers, if we turn to God; repent and ask for forgiveness.
There is no shame in sinning and asking for forgiveness; as we learn and teach from our mistakes. But if we sin, feel no remorse, do not repent, and no one ever learns from those mistakes - there is shame.
It is so very easy to blame others, and make excuses for our evil thoughts and wrong actions. We can rationalize, justify, and minimize our giving in to temptation; but these are nothing more than excuses.
But the good news is that through repentance, we can all have forgiveness.
But the good news is that through prayer - focused, directed prayer, and lots of it, we can overcome any temptation.
But the good news is that by the support of our Christian friends, their guidance, the examples they set (both good and bad), we can overcome any temptation.
But the good news is by going to the scriptures, as Jesus did, searching out those passages that strengthen, encourage and deliver us, we can over come any temptation.
And you, then, can say, I was “Almost Persuaded,” but God saved me.
Let’s pray:
Brian Reid, NTUBC, February 17, 2008
(Story; The Perfect Gift)
God uses us, in extraordinary ways; as we serve, give, and help those around us. But, he also uses our mistakes as well.
John the elderly carpenter, had lost his glasses, a stupid thing to do, after spending all the money his family had on them. But, God used that mistake, as a blessing to someone else.
God works in mysterious and amazing ways.
Could it be, that God wants to use your mistake, in an extraordinary way? Could it be, that the purpose of your mistake, is to serve as a warning for someone else?
God uses our sin, for noble purposes. A mistake I make, the punishment I receive, and all that I loose, sets an example, and provides a warning for someone else. A ‘don’t do this’ message.
Temptation is an enticement, a lure, bait, to get you to do something (that you wouldn’t normally do), something you know is wrong, something you don’t want to do, but the appeal and attraction is too strong to resist.
James 1:14 tells us;
“Temptation comes from the lure of…our own evil desires.”
And even though we may be new creations in Christ, some of our old sinful ways linger – mainly, because they serve a purpose. Either, as a connection back to sin, or, a path that leads to God’s strength.
Temptation is a test; a test of our self-control. Christians often wonder, after becoming a follower of Christ, why they still have such attractions.
God (sometimes) allows Satan to tempt us, in order to refine our faith, and to help us grow in dependence on Him. We can resist the temptation to sin, by turning to God for strength and choosing to obey His Word.
We must defend ourselves against these attacks; also, we must not allow ourselves to be drawn into situations, where our self-control is weakened, and the danger of sin awaits. This is where temptation is born, and develops, into sin.
Temptation comes when we least expect it, and it can, and often does, disguise itself as a need or a want. It comes, first as a simple thought, then as that idea lingers, it evolves into a pulling and a longing. Left unchecked, this idea will be amplified, into a full-blown deception; resulting in a sin.
So, how do we defend ourselves against such trickery?
Exactly how Jesus did: through prayer, by the support of our Christian friends, and by going to the scriptures.
In the new Testament, we find many examples of how Jesus got away from the crowds, and separated Himself from His disciples. Luke 5:16; “Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.”
Jesus also visited with His friends, as a way to renew and rejuvenate Himself; such when He visited with Martha and Mary – in Luke 10.
Sometimes, that is all that is needed, a time away, to regain one's composure and recapture one’s self-control. Such when Jesus heard about the death of John the Baptist - in Matthew 14, He went off by Himself to be alone.
But, the most secure way, we can defend ourselves against such temptations, is to search the scriptures, return to the Word, seeking refuge in the Good News of the Gospel. Your Bible is your greatest protection against temptation.
(The Temptation of Christ)
As we look at our scripture lesson for today, let me set the scene for you:
Just before this, John baptizes Jesus, in the River Jordan; and just after this, Jesus begins His ministry in Galilee.
So, here, is Satan’s last ditch effort to derail, disable, and destroy Jesus’ ministry; and all the wonderful things that will come from it. And that’s what we’re looking at today.
Verse 1;
After Jesus was baptized, He was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, to be tempted by the Devil.
This temptation was actually, a testing - for the purposing of proving. God tests the faith of the righteous, and Jesus was no exception.
The Devil hoped to prove Jesus, unfaithful to His Father, but God allowed Jesus to be tempted, to show that He was the Son of God, able to overcome the Devil - and all his tricks and lies.
God also led Israel into the Wilderness, to humble and test them. We, too, will be tested, and it is through, true obedience to God that our trails will short-lived.
Verse 2;
Jesus fasted forty days and forty nights, and the tempter came and said;
“If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.”
Hunger is one of the most, basic, human, needs, and since Jesus was fully human, Satan thought this might be Jesus’ breaking point.
But Jesus answered;
“It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God’”
Next, in verse 5;
The Devil took Him to the Holy City, Jerusalem, and set Him on the pinnacle of the temple, and said;
“If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written, ‘He will give angels charge over You, and on their hands they will bear You up, lest You strike Your foot against a stone.’”
Here, Satan was counting on Jesus’ human condition of dissatisfaction with God’s methods and timing. Often, we loose faith, and (almost) demand, that God do something to prove His existence, and His love for us. We should never try and manipulate God, by asking for signs; when they’re all around us.
In verse 7, Jesus responded;
“Again it is written, ‘You shall not test the Lord your God.’”
Then, the Devil took Jesus to a very high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world, and the Devil said;
“All these I will give You, if You will fall down and worship me.”
Here is another one of the many lies from Satan. He had no power what-so-ever, to give Jesus (or anybody else) the nations of the world. Satan was trying to distort Jesus’ perspective, by making Him focus on worldly power – and not on God’s divine plan.
Also, Satan was trying to trick Jesus into worshiping him.
Jesus then replied; verse 10;
“Begone, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord, your God, and Him, only, shall you serve.’”
Finally, Jesus rebuked Satan by telling him that only God deserved worship and service; thus Jesus overcame, conquered, and crushed Satan’s last and final temptation.
The Devil left Him, and behold, angels came and ministered to Him.
The temptations of Satan are strong, many and relentless, but through the scriptures we can conquer all of them – just as Jesus had done.
Conclusion
But, what about those times when temptation is too strong to overcome, and you slip and fall – you sin.
Well, God uses us in extraordinary ways, and, he also uses our mistakes as well. Remember, John the elderly carpenter, and his mistake, and how God used those glasses to bring a blessing, to someone else, half-way around the world.
Your mistake, your sin, your giving in to temptation, could be a blessing (in disguise) for someone else.
Also, your mistake could set an example for someone else – not, to follow. What a gift, what an amazing gift you could give to someone else.
In essence, your example of wrong-doing has said to that person; “I have made this choice, I have done this, and it was the wrong thing to do – so be warned, and don’t make the same mistake that I have made.”
Even though you may have done something so very stupid, God has taken that and used it for good.
As Phyllis, Larry, and April will agree;
“The whole point of teachers, is for those being taught, to get along without a teacher.”
For those of us, who make a bad choose, who sin, or give in to temptation, we can be called teachers, if we turn to God; repent and ask for forgiveness.
There is no shame in sinning and asking for forgiveness; as we learn and teach from our mistakes. But if we sin, feel no remorse, do not repent, and no one ever learns from those mistakes - there is shame.
It is so very easy to blame others, and make excuses for our evil thoughts and wrong actions. We can rationalize, justify, and minimize our giving in to temptation; but these are nothing more than excuses.
But the good news is that through repentance, we can all have forgiveness.
But the good news is that through prayer - focused, directed prayer, and lots of it, we can overcome any temptation.
But the good news is that by the support of our Christian friends, their guidance, the examples they set (both good and bad), we can overcome any temptation.
But the good news is by going to the scriptures, as Jesus did, searching out those passages that strengthen, encourage and deliver us, we can over come any temptation.
And you, then, can say, I was “Almost Persuaded,” but God saved me.
Let’s pray:
Sunday, February 10, 2008
“Showers of Blessings”
“Showers of Blessings”
Brian Reid, NTUBC, February 10, 2008
These passages (verses 1 through 9) tell a very important story; but today I want to focus on God’s promises from verses 1-3;
Let me remind you;
“The Lord had said to Abram, ‘Go from your country, your people, and your father’s household, to the land I will show you.
I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you;
I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.
I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you, I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.’”
Chris, had always had, this one idea.
As a kid, his mother was always looking for him, in the woods surrounding their home. He would be gone, for hours-upon-hours; missing lunch and sometimes supper; for he was an explorer.
His father was always reprimanding and scolding him, and telling him to not wander so far from the house, because of the great danger that awaits in the wilderness.
But, Chris was not afraid of the unknown. Soon his attention turned to the waters, near his home. He built a small wooden boat; and unknown to his parents, had almost drawn, on more than one occasion. He would stand on the shore, speculating on what laid beyond the distance horizon.
But, as the years wore on, school and proper European manners, had replaced his sense of adventure – not! Early in his 40’s, Chris convinced, 2, well-to-do people, from Spain, to finance his adventure – his idea.
And, in 1492, Chris-topher, on his way – West, to the East Indies, discovered North America.
Chris, was not afraid of the unknown; for his faith, in his idea, was strong.
Abram’s faith in the Lord, was strong as well. He left everything he knew behind, to follow God’s instructions; and Abram believed that God would deliver these promises to him.
Abram traveled to Canaan, and God delivered on His promises. But, who was this man called Abram?
Abram, or, Abraham, as he was known later, was born when his father, Terah, was 130 years old. Abraham himself lived to be 175 years old. He grew up in the city of Ur of the Chaldeans, a flourishing civilization, which carried out extensive trade, and had a vast library – Abram was probably well-educated.
The city of Ur was in Babylonia; and the Babylonians practiced Idolatry, but, Abram was a righteous man, a believer in God, and one of the few, still holding onto, and following, one god.
Here, starts the story of Redemption. It had been hinted at, in the Garden of Eden. The serpent had tempted Eve, and she gave-in to those desires, then, Adam also ate from “The Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil.”
Then, the Lord found out what Adam and Eve had done, and how the serpent had tempted them; He was not pleased.
So, in Genesis 3:15, the Lord says this to the serpent; which hints towards the future.
“From now on, you and the woman, will be enemies, and your offspring, and her offspring, will be enemies. He will crush your head, and you will strike His heel.”
The serpent, the Devil, Satan - is our natural enemy. He will do anything he can to get us, to follow his evil, sinful, and deadly path. So, we must be constantly, aware, and always, on the outlook, for the lies and the temptations, he spreads.
The phrase, ‘you will strike His heel’ refers to Satan’s repeated attempts, to defeat Christ during His life and times on earth. The phrase, ‘He will crush your head’ foreshadows Satan’s defeat, when Christ rose from the dead. For, a strike on the heel is not deadly, but a crushing blow to the head, is.
Here, way back in the Garden of Eden, the Almighty God was revealing His plan to defeat Satan, and offer Salvation to the world, through His Son, Jesus Christ. That was our future – foretold.
Now, over 2000 years after Creation, and the Fall of Man, some 400 years after the Great Flood, in a world, which had lapsed into Idolatry and Wickedness; God called Abram into service. When God called, Abram moved out in faith from Ur, to Haran, and finally to Canaan.
We all know that there are natural and logical consequences to any action we take, or any decision we make. We can, and often do, set into motion a series of events that may continue – long after we are gone.
Abram had a choice to make; weather to set out with his family and what ever they could carry, to ‘parts unknown,’ or stay put. Abram had a choice to make; weather to listen to God, following His instructions and directions, or turning from God’s promises. He had to decide between the security of what he already had, what he knew, what was comfortable and familiar, and the uncertainty of something unknown, strange, and foreign.
All, he had to go on, was the promises made to him by God. And what were these promises?
Through this Abrahamic Covenant, the nation of Israel was to receive three specific promises:
In short, the Lord said;
“I will make you a great nation, I will make your name great, and I will give you great blessings, if you do as I say.”
1. the promise of a great nation, involves territory and people;
Abraham and his people would inherit the land of Canaan,
2. the promise of a great name, meant that they would be known by many and honored by the same – for what they had done,
3. the promise of great blessings, meant that God would watch over them, protect them, and they would have the desires of their hearts.
Also, not only would this nation be blessed, but the other nations of the earth, would be blessed through Abram’s descendants. Israel, the nation that would come from Abram, was to follow God, and influence all those, whom they came in contact with.
Through Abram’s family tree, Jesus Christ was born to save humanity. Through Christ, people can have a personal relationship with God, and be blessed beyond measure.
Has God ever said to you, “Go to the land I will show you.”? He has to me, and here I am, living and serving, among you. Has God ever said to you, “Go to that place that is unfamiliar. Go, get out of your comfort zone.”? Has God ever said to you, “Trust Me, completely.”
Conclusion
Why don’t we want blessings from above?
Are they too hard to obtain?
What would we have to do?
What would you have to do, to receive such blessings?
Are you afraid that God would ask you to do something that you may not like, or want to do?
Are you afraid that God would ask you to do something that you feel you can’t do?
Where is your faith – in yourself?
Where is your faith – in God?
Well, faith in one’s self, comes from, and is developed through, your faith in God. Knowing and believing that God can do anything, and will do anything – is that faith.
He is waiting to bless you abundantly, for your commitment to Him.
Listen to these words from Ephesians 3:20-21;
“Now to Him, who, by the power at work within us, is able to accomplish, abundantly, far more than all we could ever ask for or image, to him be glory in the church and in Jesus Christ to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.”
This, is another one of those ‘absolute certainties.’
Listen once again; “Now to Him, who, by the power at work within us, is able to accomplish, abundantly, far more, than all we could ever ask for or image…”
The main words here are; “…abundantly, far more, than all we could ever ask for or image…”
You can have the desires of your heart, if you trust God, and follow His instructions and directions.
If a nobody, like Abram, can be called by God to start a revolution, to be the founder of a movement, having its objective as the atonement and redemption of all of mankind; if God was able to use him, why can’t He use you?
God promised, 3 blessings, if only if Abram would follow Him? So, Abram followed, and God delivered, on those promises, and granted Abram, the many blessings of faith.
Does that not show God’s commitment to us?
Can you not trust in His promises?
Wouldn’t you want to be blessed in such a manner?
Don’t you have the same kind of faith Abram had?
Well, yes you do - have that same kind of faith; maybe not yet developed. But, you can build your faith, to that of Abram, if you are willing to trust in God.
And, as a reward for your commitment, God will ‘shower you with His blessings.’
Let’s pray;
Brian Reid, NTUBC, February 10, 2008
These passages (verses 1 through 9) tell a very important story; but today I want to focus on God’s promises from verses 1-3;
Let me remind you;
“The Lord had said to Abram, ‘Go from your country, your people, and your father’s household, to the land I will show you.
I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you;
I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.
I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you, I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.’”
Chris, had always had, this one idea.
As a kid, his mother was always looking for him, in the woods surrounding their home. He would be gone, for hours-upon-hours; missing lunch and sometimes supper; for he was an explorer.
His father was always reprimanding and scolding him, and telling him to not wander so far from the house, because of the great danger that awaits in the wilderness.
But, Chris was not afraid of the unknown. Soon his attention turned to the waters, near his home. He built a small wooden boat; and unknown to his parents, had almost drawn, on more than one occasion. He would stand on the shore, speculating on what laid beyond the distance horizon.
But, as the years wore on, school and proper European manners, had replaced his sense of adventure – not! Early in his 40’s, Chris convinced, 2, well-to-do people, from Spain, to finance his adventure – his idea.
And, in 1492, Chris-topher, on his way – West, to the East Indies, discovered North America.
Chris, was not afraid of the unknown; for his faith, in his idea, was strong.
Abram’s faith in the Lord, was strong as well. He left everything he knew behind, to follow God’s instructions; and Abram believed that God would deliver these promises to him.
Abram traveled to Canaan, and God delivered on His promises. But, who was this man called Abram?
Abram, or, Abraham, as he was known later, was born when his father, Terah, was 130 years old. Abraham himself lived to be 175 years old. He grew up in the city of Ur of the Chaldeans, a flourishing civilization, which carried out extensive trade, and had a vast library – Abram was probably well-educated.
The city of Ur was in Babylonia; and the Babylonians practiced Idolatry, but, Abram was a righteous man, a believer in God, and one of the few, still holding onto, and following, one god.
Here, starts the story of Redemption. It had been hinted at, in the Garden of Eden. The serpent had tempted Eve, and she gave-in to those desires, then, Adam also ate from “The Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil.”
Then, the Lord found out what Adam and Eve had done, and how the serpent had tempted them; He was not pleased.
So, in Genesis 3:15, the Lord says this to the serpent; which hints towards the future.
“From now on, you and the woman, will be enemies, and your offspring, and her offspring, will be enemies. He will crush your head, and you will strike His heel.”
The serpent, the Devil, Satan - is our natural enemy. He will do anything he can to get us, to follow his evil, sinful, and deadly path. So, we must be constantly, aware, and always, on the outlook, for the lies and the temptations, he spreads.
The phrase, ‘you will strike His heel’ refers to Satan’s repeated attempts, to defeat Christ during His life and times on earth. The phrase, ‘He will crush your head’ foreshadows Satan’s defeat, when Christ rose from the dead. For, a strike on the heel is not deadly, but a crushing blow to the head, is.
Here, way back in the Garden of Eden, the Almighty God was revealing His plan to defeat Satan, and offer Salvation to the world, through His Son, Jesus Christ. That was our future – foretold.
Now, over 2000 years after Creation, and the Fall of Man, some 400 years after the Great Flood, in a world, which had lapsed into Idolatry and Wickedness; God called Abram into service. When God called, Abram moved out in faith from Ur, to Haran, and finally to Canaan.
We all know that there are natural and logical consequences to any action we take, or any decision we make. We can, and often do, set into motion a series of events that may continue – long after we are gone.
Abram had a choice to make; weather to set out with his family and what ever they could carry, to ‘parts unknown,’ or stay put. Abram had a choice to make; weather to listen to God, following His instructions and directions, or turning from God’s promises. He had to decide between the security of what he already had, what he knew, what was comfortable and familiar, and the uncertainty of something unknown, strange, and foreign.
All, he had to go on, was the promises made to him by God. And what were these promises?
Through this Abrahamic Covenant, the nation of Israel was to receive three specific promises:
In short, the Lord said;
“I will make you a great nation, I will make your name great, and I will give you great blessings, if you do as I say.”
1. the promise of a great nation, involves territory and people;
Abraham and his people would inherit the land of Canaan,
2. the promise of a great name, meant that they would be known by many and honored by the same – for what they had done,
3. the promise of great blessings, meant that God would watch over them, protect them, and they would have the desires of their hearts.
Also, not only would this nation be blessed, but the other nations of the earth, would be blessed through Abram’s descendants. Israel, the nation that would come from Abram, was to follow God, and influence all those, whom they came in contact with.
Through Abram’s family tree, Jesus Christ was born to save humanity. Through Christ, people can have a personal relationship with God, and be blessed beyond measure.
Has God ever said to you, “Go to the land I will show you.”? He has to me, and here I am, living and serving, among you. Has God ever said to you, “Go to that place that is unfamiliar. Go, get out of your comfort zone.”? Has God ever said to you, “Trust Me, completely.”
Conclusion
Why don’t we want blessings from above?
Are they too hard to obtain?
What would we have to do?
What would you have to do, to receive such blessings?
Are you afraid that God would ask you to do something that you may not like, or want to do?
Are you afraid that God would ask you to do something that you feel you can’t do?
Where is your faith – in yourself?
Where is your faith – in God?
Well, faith in one’s self, comes from, and is developed through, your faith in God. Knowing and believing that God can do anything, and will do anything – is that faith.
He is waiting to bless you abundantly, for your commitment to Him.
Listen to these words from Ephesians 3:20-21;
“Now to Him, who, by the power at work within us, is able to accomplish, abundantly, far more than all we could ever ask for or image, to him be glory in the church and in Jesus Christ to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.”
This, is another one of those ‘absolute certainties.’
Listen once again; “Now to Him, who, by the power at work within us, is able to accomplish, abundantly, far more, than all we could ever ask for or image…”
The main words here are; “…abundantly, far more, than all we could ever ask for or image…”
You can have the desires of your heart, if you trust God, and follow His instructions and directions.
If a nobody, like Abram, can be called by God to start a revolution, to be the founder of a movement, having its objective as the atonement and redemption of all of mankind; if God was able to use him, why can’t He use you?
God promised, 3 blessings, if only if Abram would follow Him? So, Abram followed, and God delivered, on those promises, and granted Abram, the many blessings of faith.
Does that not show God’s commitment to us?
Can you not trust in His promises?
Wouldn’t you want to be blessed in such a manner?
Don’t you have the same kind of faith Abram had?
Well, yes you do - have that same kind of faith; maybe not yet developed. But, you can build your faith, to that of Abram, if you are willing to trust in God.
And, as a reward for your commitment, God will ‘shower you with His blessings.’
Let’s pray;
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Communion Sunday, February 3, 2008
“Rock Solid Decisions”
There are Pretenders among us; geniuses – in a way. They have the ability to do many things. They have the ability to be things; that they are not. Sometimes, these Pretenders, claim to be Christians.
In Matthew 7, as part of His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches about, following Him, and relying on the Rock of our salvation.
Jesus speaks;
“Not everyone who says to me, or calls out to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven - will enter.
“Not all people who sound religious, are really godly. They may refer to me as ‘Lord,’ but they still won’t enter the Kingdom of Heaven. The decisive issue, (the deciding factor), is whether they obey my Father in heaven.
Many will say to me - on that day; On Judgment Day, many will tell me 'Lord, Lord, we prophesied - in your name, and cast out demons - in your name, and performed many miracles - in your name.’
Then, I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'
I will reply, ‘I never knew you. Get away from me, you - who break God’s laws.’
And, I will reply, ‘I never knew you. Go away; the things you did were unauthorized'
For those who follow, what Jesus says, are True Disciples.
And, how can we distinguish between those who are, and those who Pretend to be?
We simply watch what they do; we look closely at the conclusions they make; we examine their decision-making processes.
What do they compare and judge their decisions against?
Do they have a guideline, a standard of practice, or a criterion to which they parallel?
Is there a beacon, sign, guide, something to steer them, something that points or shows the way?
What do they have, to aid them in the decisions they make and the things that they do?
Pretenders don’t have such guideposts, but Christians can ask themselves a series of questions, that will help them make good, godly choices.
Jesus continues to identify The Wise and Foolish Builders
Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine, anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it, and puts them into practice, is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.
Anyone who listens to my teaching, and obeys me is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock.
The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.
Though the rain comes in torrents, and the floodwaters rise, and the winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse because it is built on bedrock.
But, everyone who hears these words of mine, anyone who hears my teaching, and does not put them into practice, and doesn’t obey it, is like a foolish man who built his house on sand.
But, anyone who hears my teaching and ignores it, is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand.
When the rains and floods come, and the winds beat against that house, it will collapse with a mighty crash.
The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew, and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash."
The mighty and great crash, is the difference between the foolish man not listening to the warnings of Jesus, and those Building on a Solid Foundation
Verses 21 to 23 are a warning for those people who ‘talk the talk,’ but don’t ‘walk the walk;’ those people who don’t live up to their words; those people who say one thing, but do something, totally different. These verses highlight the many false people there are – hypocrites.
Now, a hypocrite is deceiver, a charlatan, a faker, a con & a phony. They say and do things that are false, They’re swindlers, imposters, mis-representations of the truth. They sneak around, plagiarize, don’t play by the rules; they only pretend to love God and appear to follow Christ’s teachings.
Let me assure you of this, Christians who slip-and-fall, those who try so hard, and simply have a bad day – they are not hypocrites, they are simply struggling, and need help and encouragement.
But, there are Pretenders among us; geniuses – in a way. They have the ability to do many things. They have the ability to be things; that they are not. Sometimes, these Pretenders claim to be Christians.
So, what is my protection against such people, and how do I safeguard against becoming a Pretender?
Like I said before; Pretenders don’t have guideposts to which they can - or will – use as points of reference, referral or guidance.
But, Christians can ask themselves a series of questions, that will aid them make good, godly choices.
We all make hundreds of decisions and choices every single day. Most of these decisions, have no right or wrong value attached to them; such as what color shirt we choose to wear, whether we will eat tomato or vegetable soup for dinner.
But there are choices and decisions, that we must make, that carry more weight; and do have certain repercussions or consequences.
Bottom-line is that most Christians don’t want to do wrong, and they don’t want to cause others to do wrong; and that’s where these series of questions, come in – and act as guideposts. The Apostle, Paul offers these suggestions.
Anytime you are facing a tough and important decision, ask yourself Paul’s questions;
1. Does it help my witness for Christ?
1 Corinthians 9:22;
“When I am with those who are oppressed, I share their oppression, so that I might bring them to Christ.”
Here, Paul is search for common ground, with everyone, so that he can be a better witness for Christ. Finding and sharing common ground is very important in witnessing to anyone.
So, does it help your witness for Christ?
2. Am I motivated by a desire to help others know Christ?
1 Corinthians 9:23;
“I do all this, to spread the Good News, and in doing so, I enjoy its blessings.”
Is what you are doing, helping lead others to know Christ? Are you helping spread the Word and the truth? Will, what you do, hinder or block the image of Christ?
3. Does it help me do my best?
1 Corinthians 9:25;
“All athletes practice strict self-control. They do it - to win a prize - that will fade away; but we do it for an eternal prize.”
So, simply a question. Is what you are doing, helping you to become the very best, good, and godly person you can be. Athletes training and sacrifice, and for a fleeting second, they hold in their hands a prize. For Christians, we sacrifice, we take the road less traveled, and we try and do our very best; and our prize is not fleeting, it is a wondrous goal – which we will have forever.
That goal, that prize is life eternal.
4. Is it against a specific command in Scripture, and would thus cause me to sin?
1 Corinthians 10:12, Paul warns us;
“If you think you are standing strong, be careful, for you, too, may fall into the same sin… Remember that the temptations, that come into your life, are no different from what others experience.”
Since Pretenders don’t have a guidepost to draw upon, temptations quickly become sinful acts. But, real Christians can go to the Bible for clarification.
At Mount Sinai, God gave the Israelites this message - through Moses;
“Now, if you will obey me, and keep my covenant, you will be my own special treasure, from among all nations of the earth… And, you will be to me, a Kingdom of Priests, My Holy Nation.”
On that day, Moses brought down from, high upon that mountain, The 10 Commandments. Id all else fails, compare your decision against this covenant.
5. Is it the best and most beneficial course of action?
1 Corinthians 10:33;
“I don’t just do what I like, or what is best for me, but what is best for them, so they may be saved.”
Often, the best course of action, is the farthest thing, from what is pleasing, or best for us. As servants of God, we must always be think of what is best for the other person. The best and most beneficial thing, for any person, is a right relationship with God.
6. Am I thinking only of myself, or do I truly care about the other person?
1 Corinthians 10:24;
“Don’t think only of your own good. Think of other Christians, and what is best for them.”
Here, Paul suggests that we be sensitive and gracious towards others. With ‘free-will’ comes a freedom in Christ to make our own decisions, but our freedom should not come at the expense of others. Christ cared about everyone He meet; even those who crucified Him. As He hung, dying on the cross, He pleaded with His Father in Heaven; “Forgive them, for they know, not, what they do!”
Do you care enough, about other people, that you would give up everything you have, and all you are – so that they would have it all?
7. Am I acting lovingly or selfishly?
1 Corinthians 13:3
“If I give everything I have to the poor, and even sacrificed my body (I could boost about it), but if I didn’t love others, I would be of no value – whatsoever.”
Is what your doing, all for you, or are you really concerned about the welfare of others. Do you love yourself more than you brother or sister in Christ.
*** These last 2 questions, are most important; these form the foundation, of the guideposts.
8. Will it cause someone else to sin?
1 Corinthians 10:32;
“Don’t give offense to Jews or Gentiles, or the Church of God”
We should never do anything that offends the beliefs of someone else – if it can at all be helped. Sometimes our beliefs will clash with someone else’s beliefs; and there is no way to avoid it. But, with some planning and understanding, sensitivity can be shown. We must be willing to compromise first, but never let ourselves be taken advantage of.
Nothing we do, should cause another believer to stumble. We should never tempt another believer. If another person is weak, and gives into temptation easily, we should never lead that person into a situation where his/her integrity is threatened.
9. Does it glorify God?
1 Corinthians 10:31;
“Whatever you eat or drink, or whatever you do, you must do all for the glory of God.”
Our actions must be motivated by God’s love, so that, all we do, will be for His glory.
Keep asking yourself:
Is this action glorifying God?
Or; How can I honor God through this action?
If we truthfully answer that question, many of our actions can be halted, before they develop into problems. Glorifying God is the greatest and most important task we could ever do.
The Christian life involves both freedom and discipline; we are free to choose whatever we feel is best for us – but we must gauge those choices against a life, Christ-like.
Jesus says that obedience to Him, is the only sure foundation for life; and for making good, godly choices. Furthermore, it is His unfailing promise, that the life, that is founded on obedience to Him, and His Word, is safe; regardless of how vicious the storm, how menacing the winds, how high the floodwaters; and how hard a decision that must be made.
What is your life, based on? Fear and control, or, freedom and discipline?
Let’s pray;
There are Pretenders among us; geniuses – in a way. They have the ability to do many things. They have the ability to be things; that they are not. Sometimes, these Pretenders, claim to be Christians.
In Matthew 7, as part of His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches about, following Him, and relying on the Rock of our salvation.
Jesus speaks;
“Not everyone who says to me, or calls out to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven - will enter.
“Not all people who sound religious, are really godly. They may refer to me as ‘Lord,’ but they still won’t enter the Kingdom of Heaven. The decisive issue, (the deciding factor), is whether they obey my Father in heaven.
Many will say to me - on that day; On Judgment Day, many will tell me 'Lord, Lord, we prophesied - in your name, and cast out demons - in your name, and performed many miracles - in your name.’
Then, I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'
I will reply, ‘I never knew you. Get away from me, you - who break God’s laws.’
And, I will reply, ‘I never knew you. Go away; the things you did were unauthorized'
For those who follow, what Jesus says, are True Disciples.
And, how can we distinguish between those who are, and those who Pretend to be?
We simply watch what they do; we look closely at the conclusions they make; we examine their decision-making processes.
What do they compare and judge their decisions against?
Do they have a guideline, a standard of practice, or a criterion to which they parallel?
Is there a beacon, sign, guide, something to steer them, something that points or shows the way?
What do they have, to aid them in the decisions they make and the things that they do?
Pretenders don’t have such guideposts, but Christians can ask themselves a series of questions, that will help them make good, godly choices.
Jesus continues to identify The Wise and Foolish Builders
Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine, anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it, and puts them into practice, is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.
Anyone who listens to my teaching, and obeys me is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock.
The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.
Though the rain comes in torrents, and the floodwaters rise, and the winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse because it is built on bedrock.
But, everyone who hears these words of mine, anyone who hears my teaching, and does not put them into practice, and doesn’t obey it, is like a foolish man who built his house on sand.
But, anyone who hears my teaching and ignores it, is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand.
When the rains and floods come, and the winds beat against that house, it will collapse with a mighty crash.
The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew, and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash."
The mighty and great crash, is the difference between the foolish man not listening to the warnings of Jesus, and those Building on a Solid Foundation
Verses 21 to 23 are a warning for those people who ‘talk the talk,’ but don’t ‘walk the walk;’ those people who don’t live up to their words; those people who say one thing, but do something, totally different. These verses highlight the many false people there are – hypocrites.
Now, a hypocrite is deceiver, a charlatan, a faker, a con & a phony. They say and do things that are false, They’re swindlers, imposters, mis-representations of the truth. They sneak around, plagiarize, don’t play by the rules; they only pretend to love God and appear to follow Christ’s teachings.
Let me assure you of this, Christians who slip-and-fall, those who try so hard, and simply have a bad day – they are not hypocrites, they are simply struggling, and need help and encouragement.
But, there are Pretenders among us; geniuses – in a way. They have the ability to do many things. They have the ability to be things; that they are not. Sometimes, these Pretenders claim to be Christians.
So, what is my protection against such people, and how do I safeguard against becoming a Pretender?
Like I said before; Pretenders don’t have guideposts to which they can - or will – use as points of reference, referral or guidance.
But, Christians can ask themselves a series of questions, that will aid them make good, godly choices.
We all make hundreds of decisions and choices every single day. Most of these decisions, have no right or wrong value attached to them; such as what color shirt we choose to wear, whether we will eat tomato or vegetable soup for dinner.
But there are choices and decisions, that we must make, that carry more weight; and do have certain repercussions or consequences.
Bottom-line is that most Christians don’t want to do wrong, and they don’t want to cause others to do wrong; and that’s where these series of questions, come in – and act as guideposts. The Apostle, Paul offers these suggestions.
Anytime you are facing a tough and important decision, ask yourself Paul’s questions;
1. Does it help my witness for Christ?
1 Corinthians 9:22;
“When I am with those who are oppressed, I share their oppression, so that I might bring them to Christ.”
Here, Paul is search for common ground, with everyone, so that he can be a better witness for Christ. Finding and sharing common ground is very important in witnessing to anyone.
So, does it help your witness for Christ?
2. Am I motivated by a desire to help others know Christ?
1 Corinthians 9:23;
“I do all this, to spread the Good News, and in doing so, I enjoy its blessings.”
Is what you are doing, helping lead others to know Christ? Are you helping spread the Word and the truth? Will, what you do, hinder or block the image of Christ?
3. Does it help me do my best?
1 Corinthians 9:25;
“All athletes practice strict self-control. They do it - to win a prize - that will fade away; but we do it for an eternal prize.”
So, simply a question. Is what you are doing, helping you to become the very best, good, and godly person you can be. Athletes training and sacrifice, and for a fleeting second, they hold in their hands a prize. For Christians, we sacrifice, we take the road less traveled, and we try and do our very best; and our prize is not fleeting, it is a wondrous goal – which we will have forever.
That goal, that prize is life eternal.
4. Is it against a specific command in Scripture, and would thus cause me to sin?
1 Corinthians 10:12, Paul warns us;
“If you think you are standing strong, be careful, for you, too, may fall into the same sin… Remember that the temptations, that come into your life, are no different from what others experience.”
Since Pretenders don’t have a guidepost to draw upon, temptations quickly become sinful acts. But, real Christians can go to the Bible for clarification.
At Mount Sinai, God gave the Israelites this message - through Moses;
“Now, if you will obey me, and keep my covenant, you will be my own special treasure, from among all nations of the earth… And, you will be to me, a Kingdom of Priests, My Holy Nation.”
On that day, Moses brought down from, high upon that mountain, The 10 Commandments. Id all else fails, compare your decision against this covenant.
5. Is it the best and most beneficial course of action?
1 Corinthians 10:33;
“I don’t just do what I like, or what is best for me, but what is best for them, so they may be saved.”
Often, the best course of action, is the farthest thing, from what is pleasing, or best for us. As servants of God, we must always be think of what is best for the other person. The best and most beneficial thing, for any person, is a right relationship with God.
6. Am I thinking only of myself, or do I truly care about the other person?
1 Corinthians 10:24;
“Don’t think only of your own good. Think of other Christians, and what is best for them.”
Here, Paul suggests that we be sensitive and gracious towards others. With ‘free-will’ comes a freedom in Christ to make our own decisions, but our freedom should not come at the expense of others. Christ cared about everyone He meet; even those who crucified Him. As He hung, dying on the cross, He pleaded with His Father in Heaven; “Forgive them, for they know, not, what they do!”
Do you care enough, about other people, that you would give up everything you have, and all you are – so that they would have it all?
7. Am I acting lovingly or selfishly?
1 Corinthians 13:3
“If I give everything I have to the poor, and even sacrificed my body (I could boost about it), but if I didn’t love others, I would be of no value – whatsoever.”
Is what your doing, all for you, or are you really concerned about the welfare of others. Do you love yourself more than you brother or sister in Christ.
*** These last 2 questions, are most important; these form the foundation, of the guideposts.
8. Will it cause someone else to sin?
1 Corinthians 10:32;
“Don’t give offense to Jews or Gentiles, or the Church of God”
We should never do anything that offends the beliefs of someone else – if it can at all be helped. Sometimes our beliefs will clash with someone else’s beliefs; and there is no way to avoid it. But, with some planning and understanding, sensitivity can be shown. We must be willing to compromise first, but never let ourselves be taken advantage of.
Nothing we do, should cause another believer to stumble. We should never tempt another believer. If another person is weak, and gives into temptation easily, we should never lead that person into a situation where his/her integrity is threatened.
9. Does it glorify God?
1 Corinthians 10:31;
“Whatever you eat or drink, or whatever you do, you must do all for the glory of God.”
Our actions must be motivated by God’s love, so that, all we do, will be for His glory.
Keep asking yourself:
Is this action glorifying God?
Or; How can I honor God through this action?
If we truthfully answer that question, many of our actions can be halted, before they develop into problems. Glorifying God is the greatest and most important task we could ever do.
The Christian life involves both freedom and discipline; we are free to choose whatever we feel is best for us – but we must gauge those choices against a life, Christ-like.
Jesus says that obedience to Him, is the only sure foundation for life; and for making good, godly choices. Furthermore, it is His unfailing promise, that the life, that is founded on obedience to Him, and His Word, is safe; regardless of how vicious the storm, how menacing the winds, how high the floodwaters; and how hard a decision that must be made.
What is your life, based on? Fear and control, or, freedom and discipline?
Let’s pray;
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