Its close to Christmas and I am at my mom's house currently visiting my family for the holiday. As always I have to go through all the mail I receive as the places that I dont want to mail me at my actual home I leave for my mom's house. I came across 2 things: 1. An alumni letter asking me whether I missed good ol Mary Washington and how crazy it is that its been 7 months (actually 1 year for me) since we graduated. Then they asked for a donation. (Sorry UMW you have 36,000 of my money I think I'm good). 2. I received some weird high tech UMW 2.0 magazine that detailed all the cool things my college is doing while I am no longer there (ironic isnt it?). New buildings we needed like 10 years ago, a new basketball area, a new dorm area, new shops, places to hang out and eat for more social activity that is safe and on campus. Though all those things I was not bitter about this as the magazine was pretty boring but there was a picture on the back, as if you were standing in front of Monroe Hall facing the fountain at dusk. It showed the fountain and the lights lit up and it was actually quite an amazing picture. Rarely but on this time I began to think of the numerous walks I took past that fountain at night, by myself, with friends or with my girlfriend. It was one of those moments where you think of memories and smile to yourself in enjoyment. I remembered meeting my gf and taking walks with her to get to know her and her relationship with Christ. I remember walking by it at night dressed up as a clown to head to the eagles nest with friends to act like an idiot, and I remember sitting at it during grad ball just taking in the end of college life. I reflected on memories from all 3 years at UMW and it was alot of fun. I can say that I have no regrets (except maybe actually trying to get good grades..................naw!). My relationship with Christ grew immensely from it. Each pitfall, each person who told me to believe in this or that. Or Jesus was really this, the Bible says this cause I say so.....all of it made my faith grow.
I think one of the greatest joys is that memories are truly a gift from God. To sit and remember good times, and even bad times to show grow is so reminiscent of our God.
GOd remembers his promises (Gen. 9:15) He remembers and blesses those who are his (Psalm 115:12, and we remember what he has done for us(Psalm 77:11)
So take sometime and think of a period of time that not only did you create and have great memories, but also grew in your relationship with Christ. It doesnt have to be epic and have tons of melodrama, but a time where you remember, a memory of value and importance.
Be blessed!
Wedding Day
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Do You Delight?
The Book of Psalms as I later found out in seminary is best translated the Book of Praise. It is a book of praise becasue well God is praised constantly. There are 2 kinds of Psalms: sad ones and happy ones. So then how is the Book of Praises about praises in the sad ones. I'm glad you asked, as the Psalmist shows us that the laments always move to praise. For example many lament Psalms start out with "why does this crap happen, why do you turn away, why do you abandon me?" (I wish God would be like: Do you want some cheese with that wine?" I know cheesy! No pun intended) So the pattern is consistent: Psalm that start with lament end in praise, and we see this movement throughout.
Second important thought: Psalm wasnt written by David (alone!). There were many psalmist as indicated by the beginning of the majority of the Psalms.
So into the meat:
Psalm 1 gives a contrast between 2 kinds of people. Now this Psalm reminds me of a John book (Gospel of John, 1 John, 2 John, etc) because he makes clear distinctions between 2 different kinds of people: People who love God and people who do not.
Psalm 1 does this also:
vs. 1:
"Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked...But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night"
So a man is blessed when he does not walk in the way of the wicked but rather when he DELIGHTS in the law of the LORD.
To delight: a high degree of pleasure or enjoyment; joy
law-contextually the law is not necessarily the Mosaic Law, rather it is God's commands, or as RC Sproul says the "whole of Scripture" The Hebrew actually says "teachings"
So a man is blessed when he takes pleasure in the commands of Yahweh. How do we take pleasure in God's commands? First we need know what joy our LORD takes in us:
1. He loves us unconditionally
2. He is always available
3. He values us
4. He never abandons us
5. He hears us
6. He loves us unconditionally
7. He is in control of all things
8. He is irresistable
9. He loves you unconditonally
Did you catch the pattern. God delights in YOU! He created us all with the purpose of loving HIM. That was our original creation. We were in the Kingdom of God--God's people, under God's rule, in God's place. God created man in his image, and after creating them blessed (Gen. 1:26-27) them, setting them apart from every other being in the garden. All was very good, in Ephesians 1:4 it says that before creation he chose YOU!
We can take delight in God because He takes delight in us first.
So the righteous man delights in God's law, obviously the contrast is true, the wicked hate God's law. They despise it, and want nothing of it.
Notice what the righteous man also does: "he meditates on it day and night"
Meditate:to engage in thought or contemplation, reflect.
The Hebrew here gives meditate--studies or recites (which makes sense knowing Jewish customs of recitation in the synogogue)
So the man delights in God's teachings, and reflects on it day and night.
When have you reflected on a passage of Scripture? Now this doesnt mean you need to go into seclusion for 2 weeks and recite a passage. Rather our Christian culture jumps from one verse to another without really taking the meaning of it, nor the meaning to the individual seriously.
Here is a goal you should try:
Read a passage of Scripture, how ever long you want. Then reflect on it throughout the day. How did it fit into your day: did you have an experience that reflected that passage, a conversation? Did it apply to something you thought about, saw, touched, read in another book? Just reflect on it for once and see where that takes you. It might just help reduce the stress level of so many people. It gives renewal, just see Psalm 19:8-" The teaching of the LORD is perfect, renewing life." (JPS Hebrew)
If this Psalm is correct, we have joy in God's teachings (Scripture) and we should and want to meditate on it daily (prayer, reflection).
The benefits are detailed in the rest of the passage:
He is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither.
Whatever he does prospers.
Be Blessed!
Second important thought: Psalm wasnt written by David (alone!). There were many psalmist as indicated by the beginning of the majority of the Psalms.
So into the meat:
Psalm 1 gives a contrast between 2 kinds of people. Now this Psalm reminds me of a John book (Gospel of John, 1 John, 2 John, etc) because he makes clear distinctions between 2 different kinds of people: People who love God and people who do not.
Psalm 1 does this also:
vs. 1:
"Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked...But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night"
So a man is blessed when he does not walk in the way of the wicked but rather when he DELIGHTS in the law of the LORD.
To delight: a high degree of pleasure or enjoyment; joy
law-contextually the law is not necessarily the Mosaic Law, rather it is God's commands, or as RC Sproul says the "whole of Scripture" The Hebrew actually says "teachings"
So a man is blessed when he takes pleasure in the commands of Yahweh. How do we take pleasure in God's commands? First we need know what joy our LORD takes in us:
1. He loves us unconditionally
2. He is always available
3. He values us
4. He never abandons us
5. He hears us
6. He loves us unconditionally
7. He is in control of all things
8. He is irresistable
9. He loves you unconditonally
Did you catch the pattern. God delights in YOU! He created us all with the purpose of loving HIM. That was our original creation. We were in the Kingdom of God--God's people, under God's rule, in God's place. God created man in his image, and after creating them blessed (Gen. 1:26-27) them, setting them apart from every other being in the garden. All was very good, in Ephesians 1:4 it says that before creation he chose YOU!
We can take delight in God because He takes delight in us first.
So the righteous man delights in God's law, obviously the contrast is true, the wicked hate God's law. They despise it, and want nothing of it.
Notice what the righteous man also does: "he meditates on it day and night"
Meditate:to engage in thought or contemplation, reflect.
The Hebrew here gives meditate--studies or recites (which makes sense knowing Jewish customs of recitation in the synogogue)
So the man delights in God's teachings, and reflects on it day and night.
When have you reflected on a passage of Scripture? Now this doesnt mean you need to go into seclusion for 2 weeks and recite a passage. Rather our Christian culture jumps from one verse to another without really taking the meaning of it, nor the meaning to the individual seriously.
Here is a goal you should try:
Read a passage of Scripture, how ever long you want. Then reflect on it throughout the day. How did it fit into your day: did you have an experience that reflected that passage, a conversation? Did it apply to something you thought about, saw, touched, read in another book? Just reflect on it for once and see where that takes you. It might just help reduce the stress level of so many people. It gives renewal, just see Psalm 19:8-" The teaching of the LORD is perfect, renewing life." (JPS Hebrew)
If this Psalm is correct, we have joy in God's teachings (Scripture) and we should and want to meditate on it daily (prayer, reflection).
The benefits are detailed in the rest of the passage:
He is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither.
Whatever he does prospers.
Not so the wicked!
They are like chaff
that the wind blows away.
Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,
nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.
For the LORD watches over the way of the righteous,
but the way of the wicked will perish.
Be Blessed!
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
A Mediator....
I have decided to embark on a new journey. Like numerous Christians I enjoy the New Testament immensely and love Greek. I could spend hours over Paul books and jump into the Gospels at will. Problem is that 77% of the Bible is the Old Testament, and another problem is that many Christians are very weak on their Old Testament knowledge and reading. I am one of those people. Sadly it took a seminary course to stir my interest and mind into reading it, which explains my first statement: I am on a new journey. Now by all means I have read the Old Testament before but not with the clarity that seminary has provided.
As my reading goes I have been in the book of 1 Samuel. Now in the Hebrew Bible Samuel is not separated. The reason for this isnt some deep theological ramification but rather they couldn't fit both of the books onto one scroll so they divided it up. Then stinky Westerners were like hey these should be two books??!!! Deep I know! Anyway, 1 Samuel is broken into 3 main parts--simply focusing on the 3 main/important characters:
Chapters 1-7 focus on Samuel (notice how they contrast the faithful Samuel to Eli the disobedient priest).
Chapters 8-15 focus on Saul and his kingship, battles, and eventual fall from the LORDs grace.
Chapter 15-30 focus on David
Now that we have all the background out of the way check out this cool passage I came across a day ago and has just stuck in my mind.
1 Samuel 2:25
"If a man sins against another man, God may mediate for him; but if a man sins against the LORD, who will intercede for him?" His sons, however, did not listen to their father's rebuke, for it was the LORD's will to put them to death."
There are 2 parts to this I will tackle the first part then write a second blog for the second part.
Part I. God as mediator
*Whats amazing about this verse is that it displays that when we sin against another person, God may mediate for us. Contextually this verse is Eli the High Priest rebuking his sons because they were sleeping with the temple women, and they were taking the consecreated meat and chowing down. Its kinda like if the Jewish temple hired frat boys??!!!!
Eli is saying that though there will be a need for mediation between people who have disputes, if you offend God WHO will intervene on YOUR part??
We know in this story that the 2 sons were the offenders. Eli knows they have done wrong, it was being spread around EVERYONE knew!! He is telling them guys yes you can hurt others but there will be mediation but who will stand up to you when you have NO MEDIATOR.
And this is why reading the OT and then the NT is so useful:
1 John 2:1-2:
"I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world."
If anybody does sin (Grk. here is Harmatia--to miss the mark or deviate from the path)
We have offended God---with what?? Our sin. We loved sin, our body/flesh loves sin and wants to perform it. By nature we were sinners, from our very birth we were sinners (Eph. 2:1-2; Rom.), So we have offended a holy righteous God. So going back to 1 Samuel---Eli asks WHO will intercede?
I like the direct Hebrew translation of this "who can obtain pardon for himself?"
Ladies and gentlemen John answers this question without a doubt:
"we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense..."
"we have an advocate to the Father..." NASB
"we have an advocate who pleads our case..." NLT
We have one who pardons us from our offense to God. One who brings peace between the relationship between God and man (most translations have the term propitation--this is what that term means). Who redeems, who purchases us, who makes us right before God and who is OUR MEDIATOR: Jesus Christ.
Eli recognized there was no sacrifice that would remove the offense they had incurred. He knew that it would wash away the sin they committed. Hence why he is so worried, my sons you have offended God, who will stand in your place to plead your case, to help, save, redeem you?
Well we have the perfect lawyer: Jesus Christ. He plead our case with God and won. He was the mediator, the ONLY mediator between God and man. Not merit, not status, not how much money we owned, it was only because of His grace and goodness.
I close with this wonderful Paul verse found in 1 Tim. 2:1 before he launches into his discourse on how graceful God is:
"For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus."
Be Blessed!
As my reading goes I have been in the book of 1 Samuel. Now in the Hebrew Bible Samuel is not separated. The reason for this isnt some deep theological ramification but rather they couldn't fit both of the books onto one scroll so they divided it up. Then stinky Westerners were like hey these should be two books??!!! Deep I know! Anyway, 1 Samuel is broken into 3 main parts--simply focusing on the 3 main/important characters:
Chapters 1-7 focus on Samuel (notice how they contrast the faithful Samuel to Eli the disobedient priest).
Chapters 8-15 focus on Saul and his kingship, battles, and eventual fall from the LORDs grace.
Chapter 15-30 focus on David
Now that we have all the background out of the way check out this cool passage I came across a day ago and has just stuck in my mind.
1 Samuel 2:25
"If a man sins against another man, God may mediate for him; but if a man sins against the LORD, who will intercede for him?" His sons, however, did not listen to their father's rebuke, for it was the LORD's will to put them to death."
There are 2 parts to this I will tackle the first part then write a second blog for the second part.
Part I. God as mediator
*Whats amazing about this verse is that it displays that when we sin against another person, God may mediate for us. Contextually this verse is Eli the High Priest rebuking his sons because they were sleeping with the temple women, and they were taking the consecreated meat and chowing down. Its kinda like if the Jewish temple hired frat boys??!!!!
Eli is saying that though there will be a need for mediation between people who have disputes, if you offend God WHO will intervene on YOUR part??
We know in this story that the 2 sons were the offenders. Eli knows they have done wrong, it was being spread around EVERYONE knew!! He is telling them guys yes you can hurt others but there will be mediation but who will stand up to you when you have NO MEDIATOR.
And this is why reading the OT and then the NT is so useful:
1 John 2:1-2:
"I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world."
If anybody does sin (Grk. here is Harmatia--to miss the mark or deviate from the path)
We have offended God---with what?? Our sin. We loved sin, our body/flesh loves sin and wants to perform it. By nature we were sinners, from our very birth we were sinners (Eph. 2:1-2; Rom.), So we have offended a holy righteous God. So going back to 1 Samuel---Eli asks WHO will intercede?
I like the direct Hebrew translation of this "who can obtain pardon for himself?"
Ladies and gentlemen John answers this question without a doubt:
"we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense..."
"we have an advocate to the Father..." NASB
"we have an advocate who pleads our case..." NLT
We have one who pardons us from our offense to God. One who brings peace between the relationship between God and man (most translations have the term propitation--this is what that term means). Who redeems, who purchases us, who makes us right before God and who is OUR MEDIATOR: Jesus Christ.
Eli recognized there was no sacrifice that would remove the offense they had incurred. He knew that it would wash away the sin they committed. Hence why he is so worried, my sons you have offended God, who will stand in your place to plead your case, to help, save, redeem you?
Well we have the perfect lawyer: Jesus Christ. He plead our case with God and won. He was the mediator, the ONLY mediator between God and man. Not merit, not status, not how much money we owned, it was only because of His grace and goodness.
I close with this wonderful Paul verse found in 1 Tim. 2:1 before he launches into his discourse on how graceful God is:
"For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus."
Be Blessed!
Monday, November 16, 2009
Soli Deo Gloria
Soli Deo Gloria is a phrase that means "To God Alone the Glory". Primarily used by reformers it was a rallying cry for the Protestant Reformation (5 Solas-fide,gratia,Christo,Scriptura). It means that no matter what God gets the glory and ONLY Him. This is not just a cry theologically but its practical. The Westminister Shorter Catecism question 1 asks what is the chief end of man? Answer: Man's chief end is to glorify God and enjoy him forever. Our sole purpose on this earth is to glorify God and enjoy that.
To illustrate this I came across a wonderful passage that just made me want to jump up and down and just made me feel good.
Psalm 105:1-6,8,11
"Oh give thanks to the LORD;call upon his name;
make known his deeds among the peoples!
2Sing to him, sing praises to him;
tell of all his wondrous works!
3Glory in his holy name;
let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice!
4Seek the LORD and his strength;
seek his presence continually!
5Remember the wondrous works that he has done,
his miracles, and the judgments he uttered,
6O offspring of Abraham, his servant,
children of Jacob, his chosen ones!
To illustrate this I came across a wonderful passage that just made me want to jump up and down and just made me feel good.
Psalm 105:1-6,8,11
"Oh give thanks to the LORD;call upon his name;
make known his deeds among the peoples!
2Sing to him, sing praises to him;
tell of all his wondrous works!
3Glory in his holy name;
let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice!
4Seek the LORD and his strength;
seek his presence continually!
5Remember the wondrous works that he has done,
his miracles, and the judgments he uttered,
6O offspring of Abraham, his servant,
children of Jacob, his chosen ones!
8He remembers his covenant forever,
the word that he commanded, for a thousand generations,
11saying,"To you I will give the land of Canaan
as your portion for an inheritance."
This passage says that we are to sing, to praise and to find glory in His name. The amazing part of this psalm is that it brings up so many connections with our New Testament. We see the covenant being remembered by GOd (which is a theme from Genesis to Revelation).
Vs. 6- tells us that the offspring of Abraham his servant (which brings to mind the promise that we have through Abraham as we are His children in Galatians 3:15-25) and we are His chosen ones (Jacob or Israel) which we can see from Eph. 1:4.
The vs. 11 gives us the promise of the "promised land" (eternal life in heaven can easily be trasnferred here as the covenant promised to thousands of generations from Abraham (see Galatians 3 again) we are given the promised land through Christ due to God's promise. That is exciting to me!!
Man to glorify God and enjoying that forever? Isn't that were our joy is derived and so then as this life is short and we know the pursuit of all this is "hebel" (futile, absurd or meaningless) our pursuit should always be of enjoying this life given as a gift and using it to glorify God with all things. I wish I did this more, I wish I would let the pursuit of all other things cease or be turned down so that I may enjoy the gift that I have in Christ. That I may pursue Him, glorify Him in action, but also with my heart, my mind and all that I have. But I know at the same time that because of Christ and His righteousness, His glory, and His indwelling inside me and my drawing closer to him (do not mistaken this for a works or merit based comment) and absolutely finding joy in that. If I took everything I did and dedicated it to the glory of God how would my life change? How would yours?
So then how are you doing this? Comment if you like
Be Blessed
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
All fall short...
My roomate today let me know that one of our favorite Christian rappers Da Truth (as well as Ambassador from Cross Movement who was removed from their label) is stepping away from his music ministry due to a "moral indiscretion." To my knowledge he cheated on his wife with his "mentors" wife or something. Either way I came across this guys blog and he broke down the situation to say that Da Truth puts on a holier than thou persona so it was expected. He says this:
"I’ve always said a person struggles the most with the thing they won’t shut up about. Well, when you present yourself as “holier than thou” you had better be! But what I think makes these “falls” worse is that they’re so deliberate and calculated. Sin is sin and I get that, but cheating on your wife, especially with a choir member or fellow artist’s (who used to be your mentor) wife who’s been through something similar, etc. is just a tad bit ridiculous."
In his blog he proceeds to indicate he is a believer. With this I was most disturbed by the lack of grace in this article.
"I think makes these “falls” worse is that they’re so deliberate and calculated."
Isn't all sin deliberate? I mean we sin because we want to, not because someone holds a gun to our head. You lie because you want to look good or get out of a jam. You gossip so the attention of someone else' faults is in view. You get angry when you dont get YOUR way. All sin is deliberate!! There is that moment where you know its wrong yet you do it anyway.
His second quote also showed lack of grace:
"Sin is sin and I get that, but cheating on your wife, especially with a choir member or fellow artist’s (who used to be your mentor) wife who’s been through something similar, etc. is just a tad bit ridiculous."
Here he seems to do what many Christians tend to do--elevate a certain kind of sin over all others. Once again the biblical view of sin is distorted in this article. Sin is sin--meaning its all the same, there is no elevation of particular sins being worse than others. (Unless your Roman Catholic of course). But he seems to just throw that out and looks at the human situation and emotional toll. By no means am I saying what Da Truth did was not bad. The problem is the same with all of us: we dont realize that sin doesn't merely affect us both those around us. Yes Da Truth made a bad decision, he made a fleshly decision, he allowed sin to control him and offered himself to it voluntarily (Romans 6:12-14).
At the same time God is a God of restoration. He continuously put up with the Israelites and their complaining, turning away to idols, running away from God, seeking other pagan religions (quote any OT book). Yet he was always ready to restore them:
"my heart recoils within me, my compassion grows warm and tender, I will not execute ym burning anger, I will not again destroy Ephraim, for I am God not man." Hosea 11:8 (ESV)
Cause the wonderful thing about us is that "for all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God." (Rom. 3:23) "There is no one righteous, not even one..." (Psalm 14:1-3; 53:1-3) "every inclination of [man's] heart is evil..." (Gen.8:21)
We will struggle: (Romans 7:14-24)-"For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out.."
Praise Jesus (trust me I am very very very very thankful for this verse)-
1 John 2:1-2: "I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense, Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins and not only for ours but also for the sins of the world."
"I’ve always said a person struggles the most with the thing they won’t shut up about. Well, when you present yourself as “holier than thou” you had better be! But what I think makes these “falls” worse is that they’re so deliberate and calculated. Sin is sin and I get that, but cheating on your wife, especially with a choir member or fellow artist’s (who used to be your mentor) wife who’s been through something similar, etc. is just a tad bit ridiculous."
In his blog he proceeds to indicate he is a believer. With this I was most disturbed by the lack of grace in this article.
"I think makes these “falls” worse is that they’re so deliberate and calculated."
Isn't all sin deliberate? I mean we sin because we want to, not because someone holds a gun to our head. You lie because you want to look good or get out of a jam. You gossip so the attention of someone else' faults is in view. You get angry when you dont get YOUR way. All sin is deliberate!! There is that moment where you know its wrong yet you do it anyway.
His second quote also showed lack of grace:
"Sin is sin and I get that, but cheating on your wife, especially with a choir member or fellow artist’s (who used to be your mentor) wife who’s been through something similar, etc. is just a tad bit ridiculous."
Here he seems to do what many Christians tend to do--elevate a certain kind of sin over all others. Once again the biblical view of sin is distorted in this article. Sin is sin--meaning its all the same, there is no elevation of particular sins being worse than others. (Unless your Roman Catholic of course). But he seems to just throw that out and looks at the human situation and emotional toll. By no means am I saying what Da Truth did was not bad. The problem is the same with all of us: we dont realize that sin doesn't merely affect us both those around us. Yes Da Truth made a bad decision, he made a fleshly decision, he allowed sin to control him and offered himself to it voluntarily (Romans 6:12-14).
At the same time God is a God of restoration. He continuously put up with the Israelites and their complaining, turning away to idols, running away from God, seeking other pagan religions (quote any OT book). Yet he was always ready to restore them:
"my heart recoils within me, my compassion grows warm and tender, I will not execute ym burning anger, I will not again destroy Ephraim, for I am God not man." Hosea 11:8 (ESV)
Cause the wonderful thing about us is that "for all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God." (Rom. 3:23) "There is no one righteous, not even one..." (Psalm 14:1-3; 53:1-3) "every inclination of [man's] heart is evil..." (Gen.8:21)
We will struggle: (Romans 7:14-24)-"For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out.."
Praise Jesus (trust me I am very very very very thankful for this verse)-
1 John 2:1-2: "I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense, Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins and not only for ours but also for the sins of the world."
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
The Kingdom of God
Ever been in a situation where someone uses a phrase or a word that you dont understand yet pretend to understand for the sake of the conversation or let it gloss over without thinking? Its usually due to the fact that we dont want to seem uneducated or like we dont understand. Lets face it most of the time its a pride thing. I have done it before, mainly with my girlfriend :-) Either way we have done it at some point or another. We hear alot of phrases in church and among believers yet never really stop to think of what that phrase or word really means. There are so many common words or phrases in Christianity that we just kinda seem to nod our heads and say sure, or yes. We dont take the time to extract its meaning and what it means to us as individuals. Let me give some examples:
1. The Trinity--with this we like to merely use the water analogy or sing the 3 in 1, 1 in 3 song from Pilgrims Progress.
2. The big 3: Justification, Sanctification, Glorification--yes we can define these in simplest forms but think about your everday Christian can barely and accurately define these words. (Unless your friends with John Kandra--who is probably still reading the Book of Job).
3. The Kingdom of God--to me this is a biggie, most people have 1000 different concepts of what this is. This is the very thing we are trying to bring people into. Jesus said the "Kingdom of God is at hand" (Mark 1:14) so then exactly what was he saying????
So I post this to say to you world wide web and those who stumble across this blog:
What is the Kingdom of God? Is it manifested now? If so how? What is the kingdom? Physical, spiritual? Dont let this term just fly by as it is something that we are trying to bring people into. How can you do that if you dont really know what it is?
I will respond in a week...
Be blessed!
1. The Trinity--with this we like to merely use the water analogy or sing the 3 in 1, 1 in 3 song from Pilgrims Progress.
2. The big 3: Justification, Sanctification, Glorification--yes we can define these in simplest forms but think about your everday Christian can barely and accurately define these words. (Unless your friends with John Kandra--who is probably still reading the Book of Job).
3. The Kingdom of God--to me this is a biggie, most people have 1000 different concepts of what this is. This is the very thing we are trying to bring people into. Jesus said the "Kingdom of God is at hand" (Mark 1:14) so then exactly what was he saying????
So I post this to say to you world wide web and those who stumble across this blog:
What is the Kingdom of God? Is it manifested now? If so how? What is the kingdom? Physical, spiritual? Dont let this term just fly by as it is something that we are trying to bring people into. How can you do that if you dont really know what it is?
I will respond in a week...
Be blessed!
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Book Review: Francis Chan's: Crazy Love
I finished a couple weeks ago Francis Chan's ( I almost wrote Jackie Chan) Crazy Love. This seems to have been a popular book among young (high school/college) age Christians. I did not pick the book up for that reason, rather it was a random buy at Lifeway while picking up commentaries. Anyway I figured I would give my 2 cents worth of what I thought of the book.
Overall I enjoyed the book (I give it a B). Chan focuses mainly on the grace of Jesus Christ to us as sinners and how we can't DO anything to gain his favor, or work to achieve anymore love than what we have been given in Christ. He funnels this idea to see if we grasp how crazy in love GOd is with us and how just that alone should motivate us to do the same. Most people will enjoy the first 4 chapters as they give kinda the theology of everything with a lot of practical application. I enjoyed his chapter on "Lukewarm Christians" citing this reference from Revelation 3:14-22. His argues that there is no such thing as a lukewarm Christian but rather those people are not Christians in the first place! I tend to agree with Chan, he cites the context of Rev. 3:14-22. Why would Jesus talk to believers in this way? Even in the OT God always backed up his rebuke and judgment with I will restore you and no where in that passage does Jesus do that. Chan continues to say that we may have lukewarm tendencies but by all means there are no lukewarm Christians. He continues to give what a lukewarm tendency is along with Scripture passage to give testimony to his point.
The second half of the book wasnt so inpiring but nonetheless was informative. He gives examples of people who not only hear the Word but do what it says (James 1:22). Some stories are really neat and some are not. Some (like on Amazon's reviews) see the second half (stories of works) of the book as a contradiction of the first half (grace). Rather I saw him building on the same biblical conception of: if you have this grace, this wonderful good news then you will want to get your sorry butt out and serve. He tells us the readers to be uncomfortable, get out, stop making excuses for serving our Lord. To the largest effect I agree with him. Too long have we made excuses (I have work, I have no time, I need this or that) but in the end there is always time to serve our great God. I know some of you may take offense to that last sentence like: well I really do have alot of work, and thats cool but I know taht we will all stand before a Holy God and see if that will fly with Him? :-)
So overall it was a good read, I encourage those out there to purchase it if they do not have it. Its an easy read, a good read, but of course the Word is so much better and worthwhile. This book willl make you reflect and think but its just a guy and the Word is God's special revelation and always is number 1 (Heb. 4:12)
Overall I enjoyed the book (I give it a B). Chan focuses mainly on the grace of Jesus Christ to us as sinners and how we can't DO anything to gain his favor, or work to achieve anymore love than what we have been given in Christ. He funnels this idea to see if we grasp how crazy in love GOd is with us and how just that alone should motivate us to do the same. Most people will enjoy the first 4 chapters as they give kinda the theology of everything with a lot of practical application. I enjoyed his chapter on "Lukewarm Christians" citing this reference from Revelation 3:14-22. His argues that there is no such thing as a lukewarm Christian but rather those people are not Christians in the first place! I tend to agree with Chan, he cites the context of Rev. 3:14-22. Why would Jesus talk to believers in this way? Even in the OT God always backed up his rebuke and judgment with I will restore you and no where in that passage does Jesus do that. Chan continues to say that we may have lukewarm tendencies but by all means there are no lukewarm Christians. He continues to give what a lukewarm tendency is along with Scripture passage to give testimony to his point.
The second half of the book wasnt so inpiring but nonetheless was informative. He gives examples of people who not only hear the Word but do what it says (James 1:22). Some stories are really neat and some are not. Some (like on Amazon's reviews) see the second half (stories of works) of the book as a contradiction of the first half (grace). Rather I saw him building on the same biblical conception of: if you have this grace, this wonderful good news then you will want to get your sorry butt out and serve. He tells us the readers to be uncomfortable, get out, stop making excuses for serving our Lord. To the largest effect I agree with him. Too long have we made excuses (I have work, I have no time, I need this or that) but in the end there is always time to serve our great God. I know some of you may take offense to that last sentence like: well I really do have alot of work, and thats cool but I know taht we will all stand before a Holy God and see if that will fly with Him? :-)
So overall it was a good read, I encourage those out there to purchase it if they do not have it. Its an easy read, a good read, but of course the Word is so much better and worthwhile. This book willl make you reflect and think but its just a guy and the Word is God's special revelation and always is number 1 (Heb. 4:12)
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Give a biblical viewpoint not your opinion!
Okay, this has festered on my heart for quite some time now and I think it is therapeutic to get it out now.
"To have a proper biblical viewpoint we must let the Bible first be the authority, and then let the Bible set the agenda in our biblical viewpoints."
I have debates and conversations with people frequently about Scripture and beliefs and so on. What I find most common is that people will state what they believe, yet either
A. not have the Scripture to back up what they say.
B. Use what another said in a commentary and use it as their own.
C. Use a passage that vaguely is contextually correct for their argument.
Now grant it we are not perfect beings. But I think we (this includes myself) get lazy when it comes to proper exegesis of passages. I think we get so engaged with being "right" or to "win" a debate that we take passages out of context: linguistically, historically, and theologically. Its sad to hear Christians in a conversation (in order to make them feel good) say well thats what you believe and I believe this.
Now I am taking into account many different variables which I do not find the time nor space to write out. But there is a proper hermeneutic and exegesis to Scripture.
First we accept that Scripture is authoritative. Its says it is:
2 Timothy 3:16-"All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.
If Scripture can correct, reproof (rebuke), and train for righteousness it must be authoritative.
Now for our example:
For example: I hear this one alot
God doesnt want you to have tattoos, or to smoke or to pierce your body because:
"your body is a temple." (citing 1 Corinthians 6:19)
Now lets see the whole passage:
verse 13-The body is not meant for sexual immorality, but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body.
verse 15 "Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ?
**This verse continues to tell us the importance of our bodies but yet that we should not join ourselves to a prostitute.
Verse 18 "Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body.
**Once again the context is clear---sexual immorality
Contextually here we can understand that this passage is talking of:
1. sexual immorality
The Greek word for this is "porneia"
It means any sexual act conducted outside of a marriage between a male and a female is immoral. (includes homosexuality, pedophilia, adultery, etc)
Interestingly the Greek word also can mean idol (image) or a sexual image combined with both words. Hence this is where we get our English word for pornography.
Here Paul is emphasizing yes that our bodies are not just vessels to throw around (contextually sexually) with the temple prostitutes that would have been in the Corinthians places. He even appeals back to Genesis--1 man 1 woman, joined together. He places the importance of sexual purity, and the importance of its place under the banner of God.
At the end of the passage we get the exhortation: So then glorify God in your body."
Could this be loosely translated into obesity, smoking, tattoos-----some will try, but it wouldnt be proper hermeneutics. This passage is intended for the subject of sexual immorality. That why Paul wrote it and passionately defended it. He didnt appeal for Adam and Eve being perfect bodies and not destroying it but rather focused on the their joining together.
Should we glorify our bodies for God, yes! I believe though that there are better passages to be used in place though. We cant just throw out any verse we think says something that may relate to our argument.
Other such instances:
Any passage dealing with justification:
Paul uses it differently than James, and from Matthew, Luke, Mark and so on. Are there similarities...sure but people forget that they were written to specific communities.
So how can we properly exegete Scripture:
1. Linguistically---get a hold of a Greek lexicon, or some sort of Greek commentary that goes with the language. (This goes for Hebrew too!)
The language plays such a role:
example--Proverbs 31-The Woman of Noble Character---incorrectly translated, actually its mighty warrior, but for some reason scholars deemed it to be noble.
*David and Jonathans covenant was done under the thigh, but it was actually done with the genitals. They held each others genitals to make the covenant. This isnt odd once you examine culture, and the overall use of genitals in the OT.
2. Historical Context
This is important as you have to know the history behind why that phrase was used, why, what would have influenced that. Under this I would place customs, culture, etc... What would a holy kiss have been in that time period? What did Jesus mean when he said to deny your mother and father in a culture where that was essential to living?
3. Intertextuality
My personal favorite--how does that passage team up against several other passages? Though it may be fun to find a passage that gets to your point but does you no good if it doesnt line up with the rest of Scripture ( 2 tim. 3:16)
4. Theological Center
What is the point of that passage? How does it line with Jesus Christ being the theological center? I mean he is the point of all Scripture right?
Okay I am done ranting for the night. But by all means these are important things to think about. I think instead of thinking about WHO WE THINK God is and reading Scripture to see the True and Holy God as He IS it would change the way we think, live, and act.
Think biblically! Live loud.
"To have a proper biblical viewpoint we must let the Bible first be the authority, and then let the Bible set the agenda in our biblical viewpoints."
I have debates and conversations with people frequently about Scripture and beliefs and so on. What I find most common is that people will state what they believe, yet either
A. not have the Scripture to back up what they say.
B. Use what another said in a commentary and use it as their own.
C. Use a passage that vaguely is contextually correct for their argument.
Now grant it we are not perfect beings. But I think we (this includes myself) get lazy when it comes to proper exegesis of passages. I think we get so engaged with being "right" or to "win" a debate that we take passages out of context: linguistically, historically, and theologically. Its sad to hear Christians in a conversation (in order to make them feel good) say well thats what you believe and I believe this.
Now I am taking into account many different variables which I do not find the time nor space to write out. But there is a proper hermeneutic and exegesis to Scripture.
First we accept that Scripture is authoritative. Its says it is:
2 Timothy 3:16-"All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.
If Scripture can correct, reproof (rebuke), and train for righteousness it must be authoritative.
Now for our example:
For example: I hear this one alot
God doesnt want you to have tattoos, or to smoke or to pierce your body because:
"your body is a temple." (citing 1 Corinthians 6:19)
Now lets see the whole passage:
verse 13-The body is not meant for sexual immorality, but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body.
verse 15 "Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ?
**This verse continues to tell us the importance of our bodies but yet that we should not join ourselves to a prostitute.
Verse 18 "Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body.
**Once again the context is clear---sexual immorality
Contextually here we can understand that this passage is talking of:
1. sexual immorality
The Greek word for this is "porneia"
It means any sexual act conducted outside of a marriage between a male and a female is immoral. (includes homosexuality, pedophilia, adultery, etc)
Interestingly the Greek word also can mean idol (image) or a sexual image combined with both words. Hence this is where we get our English word for pornography.
Here Paul is emphasizing yes that our bodies are not just vessels to throw around (contextually sexually) with the temple prostitutes that would have been in the Corinthians places. He even appeals back to Genesis--1 man 1 woman, joined together. He places the importance of sexual purity, and the importance of its place under the banner of God.
At the end of the passage we get the exhortation: So then glorify God in your body."
Could this be loosely translated into obesity, smoking, tattoos-----some will try, but it wouldnt be proper hermeneutics. This passage is intended for the subject of sexual immorality. That why Paul wrote it and passionately defended it. He didnt appeal for Adam and Eve being perfect bodies and not destroying it but rather focused on the their joining together.
Should we glorify our bodies for God, yes! I believe though that there are better passages to be used in place though. We cant just throw out any verse we think says something that may relate to our argument.
Other such instances:
Any passage dealing with justification:
Paul uses it differently than James, and from Matthew, Luke, Mark and so on. Are there similarities...sure but people forget that they were written to specific communities.
So how can we properly exegete Scripture:
1. Linguistically---get a hold of a Greek lexicon, or some sort of Greek commentary that goes with the language. (This goes for Hebrew too!)
The language plays such a role:
example--Proverbs 31-The Woman of Noble Character---incorrectly translated, actually its mighty warrior, but for some reason scholars deemed it to be noble.
*David and Jonathans covenant was done under the thigh, but it was actually done with the genitals. They held each others genitals to make the covenant. This isnt odd once you examine culture, and the overall use of genitals in the OT.
2. Historical Context
This is important as you have to know the history behind why that phrase was used, why, what would have influenced that. Under this I would place customs, culture, etc... What would a holy kiss have been in that time period? What did Jesus mean when he said to deny your mother and father in a culture where that was essential to living?
3. Intertextuality
My personal favorite--how does that passage team up against several other passages? Though it may be fun to find a passage that gets to your point but does you no good if it doesnt line up with the rest of Scripture ( 2 tim. 3:16)
4. Theological Center
What is the point of that passage? How does it line with Jesus Christ being the theological center? I mean he is the point of all Scripture right?
Okay I am done ranting for the night. But by all means these are important things to think about. I think instead of thinking about WHO WE THINK God is and reading Scripture to see the True and Holy God as He IS it would change the way we think, live, and act.
Think biblically! Live loud.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
"The LORD will be king over the whole earth. On that day there will be one LORD and his name the only name." Zechariah 14:9
I read this verse as the tail end of my reading in the book of Zechariah. This book has some of the largest amount of Christological prophecy in it. For example Zion's King will come with power and salvation riding on a colt or donkey (Zech. 9:9-13), then the Messiah being described as the cornerstone (Zech. 10:4 cross reference with Eph. 2:20), how God will gather up all his flock to be placed in greener pastures (Zech. 10:8 cross ref. with John 10), then the 30 pieces of silver to be the price at which they "pierced" me (Zech. 11:12-13 cross ref with Matthew 26:15), then the piercing and beating of the Messiah (Zech. 12:10 cross with Jesus' beating), and finally the Shepherd being struck and the flock scattering (Zech. 13:1-6 cross ref. Matt. 26:56; Mark 14:50).
Lastly the verse placed up top. I love verses that display God's sovereign power over everything. I love to see that no matter what we do, no matter how good or bad, God still is absolutely in charge of everything. Despite my decision making, whether good or bad, he's in charge, whether the world falls to pieces, he's still there.
That is some powerful stuff.
A king is someone who rules over a group ( or for the exact definition-the chief authority over a country and people.) So we have God's position is a ruler or authority over. What is he ruling?
"...the whole earth..."
GOd will rule over everything, as it was created for Him. Jesus is described this way in Colossians 1:16-17: "For by him (Jesus Christ) all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible.........all things were created for him. He is before all things and in him all things hold together."
So here in Zech. 14, the LORD ( Yahweh) God himself will rule over the entire earth, the earth will have ONLY one name to honor, to glorify, to worship similar to the position of today, but this will be a time where God rules over His people forever and ever.
I dont know about you but that gets me excited and that's hard to do. This verse can mean alot of things to different people. I usually look at it contextually to help me find the exact meaning but though this verse speaks of God's mighty power, and His eventual rule over this whole earth and everyone in it I draw strength from it to help me where I am spritually now. It reminds me that the little things I fret and worry over need to pass, simply because the time I spend here is precious. A gift. Mainly because my sole reason for being on this earth is to love, preach the gospel, act it out, serve others, and enjoy my God. Yes the Lord will rule and his subjects nay rather his friends will forever reign with Him.
I say like the writer of Revelation in excitement, in anticipation....."Surely I am coming soon!"
Amen! Come Lord Jesus!!
(Rev. 22:20)
I read this verse as the tail end of my reading in the book of Zechariah. This book has some of the largest amount of Christological prophecy in it. For example Zion's King will come with power and salvation riding on a colt or donkey (Zech. 9:9-13), then the Messiah being described as the cornerstone (Zech. 10:4 cross reference with Eph. 2:20), how God will gather up all his flock to be placed in greener pastures (Zech. 10:8 cross ref. with John 10), then the 30 pieces of silver to be the price at which they "pierced" me (Zech. 11:12-13 cross ref with Matthew 26:15), then the piercing and beating of the Messiah (Zech. 12:10 cross with Jesus' beating), and finally the Shepherd being struck and the flock scattering (Zech. 13:1-6 cross ref. Matt. 26:56; Mark 14:50).
Lastly the verse placed up top. I love verses that display God's sovereign power over everything. I love to see that no matter what we do, no matter how good or bad, God still is absolutely in charge of everything. Despite my decision making, whether good or bad, he's in charge, whether the world falls to pieces, he's still there.
That is some powerful stuff.
A king is someone who rules over a group ( or for the exact definition-the chief authority over a country and people.) So we have God's position is a ruler or authority over. What is he ruling?
"...the whole earth..."
GOd will rule over everything, as it was created for Him. Jesus is described this way in Colossians 1:16-17: "For by him (Jesus Christ) all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible.........all things were created for him. He is before all things and in him all things hold together."
So here in Zech. 14, the LORD ( Yahweh) God himself will rule over the entire earth, the earth will have ONLY one name to honor, to glorify, to worship similar to the position of today, but this will be a time where God rules over His people forever and ever.
I dont know about you but that gets me excited and that's hard to do. This verse can mean alot of things to different people. I usually look at it contextually to help me find the exact meaning but though this verse speaks of God's mighty power, and His eventual rule over this whole earth and everyone in it I draw strength from it to help me where I am spritually now. It reminds me that the little things I fret and worry over need to pass, simply because the time I spend here is precious. A gift. Mainly because my sole reason for being on this earth is to love, preach the gospel, act it out, serve others, and enjoy my God. Yes the Lord will rule and his subjects nay rather his friends will forever reign with Him.
I say like the writer of Revelation in excitement, in anticipation....."Surely I am coming soon!"
Amen! Come Lord Jesus!!
(Rev. 22:20)
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Disappointed
I have heard over and over again about this whole Michael Phelps situation. Caught on a picture smoking out of a bong. Was there marijuana in it? I dont think Phelps would apologize if it did. Anyway I feel this brings up a much bigger issue than the isolated stupidity of Phelps: the attitude of this nation and its role models. A role model: is any person who serves as an example, whose behavior is emulated by others. This is the very things that people like Phelps has consistently said they want to be for young people. Now by all means I understand that we all make mistakes and we all fall due to our fallen condition of sin. But like pastors (Ted Haggard is a good example) spout the very thing they want to be and begin to say they want to be role models for young people or adults when they fall it seems that we make excuses for them. Haggard made his own excuses but for Phelps all you hear on the TV is that he is "a young man and needs so sow his wild oats". What kind of excuse is this??
"I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his service. Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. 14The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst.
We see Paul's problem: he was the worst, blasphemer, persecutor, a violent man. But it wasnt his mercy, or his grace, or his redemption or his faith, and love but rather Jesus Christ. Paul never wanted to be a role model he wanted people to see Jesus Christ. Its the same call today. I have people I admire, respect, enjoy but in the end their just people. I have always felt uncomfortable with people who have wanted to be "like" me or wish they had some quality that I had. And though by no means gloating on my part, I feel uncomfortable because its Christ who does it. Its His gift, His talent, His glory that I want to point, to not me. If there is some quality I have then Blessed be the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. I am a firm believer in Soli Deo Gloria (TO God alone be the Glory).
So who is your role model? I'm sticking with the King of Kings, Lord of Lords Jesus Christ.
Forgiveness doesn't entail forgetting the responsibility that one has AS a role model. Pastors are called to ministry to lead people, when they sin and fall it not only affects them, their families, but the very people who follow them. Sometimes hundreds of people turn away because they can no longer trust their pastor. Even people in Scripture failed the people and God miserably: David, Moses, Aaron, Jonah. ALot of times pastors preached on being the David in the Goliath battles, or Moses during trials of oppressive people, or be a Daniel and pray during trials. Problem with this is that those guys are not role models either!!! Its like comparing yourself to the person next to you saying whew I am not as bad as that guy. Its not about "that guy" or being Davids, Moses its about the ultimate role model Jesus Christ. Many people look to Paul as a great role model and Paul has many times said "follow my example" (1 Cor. 11:1) but he also pointed everything back to Christ...for MY example is Christ."
Another great example is 1 Tim. 1:12-15:
Another great example is 1 Tim. 1:12-15:
"I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his service. Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. 14The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst.
We see Paul's problem: he was the worst, blasphemer, persecutor, a violent man. But it wasnt his mercy, or his grace, or his redemption or his faith, and love but rather Jesus Christ. Paul never wanted to be a role model he wanted people to see Jesus Christ. Its the same call today. I have people I admire, respect, enjoy but in the end their just people. I have always felt uncomfortable with people who have wanted to be "like" me or wish they had some quality that I had. And though by no means gloating on my part, I feel uncomfortable because its Christ who does it. Its His gift, His talent, His glory that I want to point, to not me. If there is some quality I have then Blessed be the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. I am a firm believer in Soli Deo Gloria (TO God alone be the Glory).
So who is your role model? I'm sticking with the King of Kings, Lord of Lords Jesus Christ.
"Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen." 1 Timothy 1:17
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