Matthew 28:5-8
One of my favorite sayings that our previous pastor, Al Meredith at Wedgwood Baptist Church in Fort Worth, used to say is "May we never get over the cross." It was his way of saying, "May we never forget the incredible cost and suffering of Jesus that took place there because of the ugliness of our sin." Remembering the cross is important because it instills in us a sense of humility and awe at what Jesus did for us.
As Christians, we must always keep Easter Sunday before us as well. If Easter didn't happen, there would be nothing "good" about Good Friday. Just like the women and the disciples, there should be a burden in our lives because of the death of Jesus. We should mourn over our sin and feel the tremendous weight and burden it brings because our sins mean certain death. However, Jesus didn't stay in that tomb. The angel said to the women, "He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said." Jesus overcome death and hell to set people free from the burden and bondage of sin. The grave could not hold Jesus, and for those who place their faith in Christ, the chains of sin can no longer bind us.
The angel gives two commands to the women that we should all live up to today.
Come and see: every person stands in need of salvation. All have sinned and need forgiveness. You and I are invited to come and see that Jesus is the Savior that provides the forgiveness we need.
Go and tell: Once we have accepted Jesus as Savior and Lord, we are commissioned to tell others what we have experienced. We should seek opportunities to tell others what Jesus has done for us.
My prayer is that you find great joy in the resurrection of Jesus. It is through His resurrection that we have freedom from sin and hope for our eternity. Even as you enjoy your salvation, be quick to tell others about Jesus as well. The people around us need that joy that believers in Christ have been given.
Sunday, March 31, 2013
Saturday, March 30, 2013
Passion Week: In the Tomb
1 Peter 3:18-20
One of the more disputed, yet fascinating, passages of Scripture is found in 1 Peter 3. There are at least five widely acknowledged theories about the meaning of this passage. The reason I am looking at it in this posting is because of the view of some that this reference is to what Jesus did in the spirit while His body lay in the tomb.
I wish I could say I know exactly what this passage means, but I can't. In fact, I'm more sure of what it does not mean than what it does mean. Some have suggested it means Jesus went to Hades (or purgatory) to offer a second chance at salvation for people who died before Jesus. I don't believe that is true because of Hebrews 9:27 "It is appointed for men to die once, then after that the judgment."
John MacArthur holds that this reference to Jesus preaching to the spirits now in prison is referring to Jesus declaring triumph over sin and death to fallen angels who are now in prison awaiting final judgment. Because Peter uses the time of Noah to flesh out his point, MacArthur argues that it points to the judgment God executed against men and angels during the flood.
Another possible interpretation is that Jesus was proclaiming judgment to the people through Noah during the construction of the Ark. This is the position held by Wayne Grudem.
I don't believe we can say with certainty what took place between the crucifixion and the resurrection of Jesus. For us, I think we should spend a moment on this Saturday between the two events with humble anticipation. Humble because the death Jesus died was for our sins, but in anticipation because the grave and death is about to be forever defeated. When the sun (Son) rises the next day, there is no more doubt that God's love is great and His sovereignty over all things is certain.
One of the more disputed, yet fascinating, passages of Scripture is found in 1 Peter 3. There are at least five widely acknowledged theories about the meaning of this passage. The reason I am looking at it in this posting is because of the view of some that this reference is to what Jesus did in the spirit while His body lay in the tomb.
I wish I could say I know exactly what this passage means, but I can't. In fact, I'm more sure of what it does not mean than what it does mean. Some have suggested it means Jesus went to Hades (or purgatory) to offer a second chance at salvation for people who died before Jesus. I don't believe that is true because of Hebrews 9:27 "It is appointed for men to die once, then after that the judgment."
John MacArthur holds that this reference to Jesus preaching to the spirits now in prison is referring to Jesus declaring triumph over sin and death to fallen angels who are now in prison awaiting final judgment. Because Peter uses the time of Noah to flesh out his point, MacArthur argues that it points to the judgment God executed against men and angels during the flood.
Another possible interpretation is that Jesus was proclaiming judgment to the people through Noah during the construction of the Ark. This is the position held by Wayne Grudem.
I don't believe we can say with certainty what took place between the crucifixion and the resurrection of Jesus. For us, I think we should spend a moment on this Saturday between the two events with humble anticipation. Humble because the death Jesus died was for our sins, but in anticipation because the grave and death is about to be forever defeated. When the sun (Son) rises the next day, there is no more doubt that God's love is great and His sovereignty over all things is certain.
Friday, March 29, 2013
Passion Week: He Became Sin
2 Corinthians 5:21
When reflecting upon the implications of the cross, several items stand out. Jesus being our substitute, His deep love for us, and His willingness to lay down His own life for us are three examples. However, the one that may be hardest for me to grasp is found in 2 Corinthians 5:21.
Jesus who is holy, pure, and righteous is said to be "(made) sin on our behalf." It was not that Jesus didn't deserve this punishment while He was here on earth for His 33 plus years, it is the fact that Jesus didn't deserve punishment at all. Here is the Holy God hanging on a cross. He deserved worship and adoration, yet, He willingly took upon Himself our sins and bore them for us so that we might receive His righteousness.
As you ponder the implications of the cross, think about the price that Jesus paid. It is in light of this verse and passages like Philippians 2:5-11 that should humble us at the significance of Jesus condescension to come to earth and die for us.
Read John 19:16-42; Matthew 27:33-56 and reflect upon the death of Jesus today.
When reflecting upon the implications of the cross, several items stand out. Jesus being our substitute, His deep love for us, and His willingness to lay down His own life for us are three examples. However, the one that may be hardest for me to grasp is found in 2 Corinthians 5:21.
Jesus who is holy, pure, and righteous is said to be "(made) sin on our behalf." It was not that Jesus didn't deserve this punishment while He was here on earth for His 33 plus years, it is the fact that Jesus didn't deserve punishment at all. Here is the Holy God hanging on a cross. He deserved worship and adoration, yet, He willingly took upon Himself our sins and bore them for us so that we might receive His righteousness.
As you ponder the implications of the cross, think about the price that Jesus paid. It is in light of this verse and passages like Philippians 2:5-11 that should humble us at the significance of Jesus condescension to come to earth and die for us.
Read John 19:16-42; Matthew 27:33-56 and reflect upon the death of Jesus today.
Thursday, March 28, 2013
Passion Week: Jesus as a Substitute
Matthew 27:15-23; Mark 15:6-14; Luke 23:17-23
I'm re-reading Jesus According to Scripture by Darrell Bock and was struck by something from the Passion narrative. We know there was a custom that clemency is granted to one prisoner during the Passover celebration. The Gospels tell us that the people are presented with the choice of Barabbas or Christ (King of the Jews in Mark and John), but the people choose Barabbas.
Bock notes that there is great symbolism in this scene. He writes,
I'm re-reading Jesus According to Scripture by Darrell Bock and was struck by something from the Passion narrative. We know there was a custom that clemency is granted to one prisoner during the Passover celebration. The Gospels tell us that the people are presented with the choice of Barabbas or Christ (King of the Jews in Mark and John), but the people choose Barabbas.
Bock notes that there is great symbolism in this scene. He writes,
The substitution of an innocent Jesus for a guilty Barabbas is a metaphor for the entire experience of the cross... the name Barabbas means "son of the father" in Aramaic. Those who know the language and are sensitive to religious symbolism understand that one son had been exchanged for another. One condemned to die had been set free so that an innocent could die in his place.Of course, the symbolism was lost in the furor of the moment, but I'm sure God used this imagery in the days afterward to remind and teach people what Jesus did. Also, it reminds us that Jesus is our substitute. We deserve death, but He takes that punishment upon Himself so that we might live. We should not take for granted the magnitude of what Jesus did for us. We should be humbled by His love, mercy, and grace and be people who extend love, mercy, and grace to others.
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Passion Week: Mary Compared to Judas
Matthew 26:6-13; Mark 14:3-9; John 12:1-8
Matthew and Mark place the anointing of Jesus by Mary next to the commitment of Judas to betray Jesus during the Passion Week. By placing these two stories together, we see a great picture in the difference between a genuine follower and one who is a follower in name only.
The story of Mary anointing Jesus is a prophetic and loving act by her. Though she did not know it at the time, she was portraying the coming burial of Jesus after the crucifixion. She used expensive nard to demonstrate her worship of Jesus. She did this despite the ridicule that she gets from Judas and the other disciples about how much her sacrifice was worth. Culturally, she was not considered to be anyone of importance, but her selfless act of worship is praised by Jesus and is forever remembered as a act of devotion.
This is contrasted with the act of betrayal by one of the supposedly devoted disciples, Judas. His actions reveal that his devotion was really to himself and his own desires and not the desires of Jesus. His action is as selfish as Mary's act is selfless.
As we prepare for Easter, we should evaluate our lives in light of the Gospel. Are we genuinely in relationship with Jesus and willing to give everything, or are we a follower in name only and are really driven by our own desires? May God grant us the ability to die to ourselves and follow Him.
Matthew and Mark place the anointing of Jesus by Mary next to the commitment of Judas to betray Jesus during the Passion Week. By placing these two stories together, we see a great picture in the difference between a genuine follower and one who is a follower in name only.
The story of Mary anointing Jesus is a prophetic and loving act by her. Though she did not know it at the time, she was portraying the coming burial of Jesus after the crucifixion. She used expensive nard to demonstrate her worship of Jesus. She did this despite the ridicule that she gets from Judas and the other disciples about how much her sacrifice was worth. Culturally, she was not considered to be anyone of importance, but her selfless act of worship is praised by Jesus and is forever remembered as a act of devotion.
This is contrasted with the act of betrayal by one of the supposedly devoted disciples, Judas. His actions reveal that his devotion was really to himself and his own desires and not the desires of Jesus. His action is as selfish as Mary's act is selfless.
As we prepare for Easter, we should evaluate our lives in light of the Gospel. Are we genuinely in relationship with Jesus and willing to give everything, or are we a follower in name only and are really driven by our own desires? May God grant us the ability to die to ourselves and follow Him.
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Passion Week: Live Up To What You Know
Matthew 23:1-12
Jesus spoke at length in the Temple during His final week on earth. One of the teachings He made was to speak against the scribes and Pharisees. One of the more fascinating parts of this passage is at the very beginning. He notes that they seat themselves on the chair of Moses. This indicates that they have given themselves authority over the people.
What is even more fascinating is what Jesus says next. He says "do and observe" what they command to do! He doesn't say, "Ignore them." He does not say, "They don't know what they are talking about." He explicitly says to observe their teaching.
I don't know about you, but those two statements seem "odd" or downright wrong. Let's keep the tension in place for a moment and return to verses 3b and 4.
Jesus says not to follow the actions of the teachers because they are not living up to what they teach. Additionally, they refuse to help people who struggle with living up to what the teachers are teaching. Verse 2 and 3a appear to be endorsements of of the scribes and Pharisees, while 3b and 4 appear to condemn them.
This is a case of having to remember the different tools available to a speaker (Jesus)/ writer (Matthew) to teach people a point. We note that good teachers will sometimes use irony to strengthen a point. According to D.A. Carson, this is exactly what Jesus (and Matthew) do here. The first two points are ironic, while the second two are non-ironic.
The hint is in verse 2. They put themselves into positions of authority, rather than God putting them in to authority. Think about people who have self-appointed themselves to have authority over your life: what did you think about those moments? In my life, the best thing I could say about those situations is that I was amused (but deep down it made me mad.)
When Jesus says "do and observe", He is being ironic since these teachers don't have genuine authority. Also, if the things they taught were so great, then it would have made a difference in their own life. To illustrate it a different way, "Don't take weight loss advice from an overweight person."
What does this mean to us? We should evaluate what we teach and make sure we are living up to it. There is no room in the Christian life for an attitude of "do what I say, not what I do." Jesus taught what it means to be in relationship with the Father, then He lived it out every day. While the Pharisees refused to help the people under the burden of the law, Jesus' burden is easy and light. The Pharisees placed heavy burdens on others, Jesus bore our burdens and sins so we can have eternal life.
Jesus spoke at length in the Temple during His final week on earth. One of the teachings He made was to speak against the scribes and Pharisees. One of the more fascinating parts of this passage is at the very beginning. He notes that they seat themselves on the chair of Moses. This indicates that they have given themselves authority over the people.
What is even more fascinating is what Jesus says next. He says "do and observe" what they command to do! He doesn't say, "Ignore them." He does not say, "They don't know what they are talking about." He explicitly says to observe their teaching.
I don't know about you, but those two statements seem "odd" or downright wrong. Let's keep the tension in place for a moment and return to verses 3b and 4.
Jesus says not to follow the actions of the teachers because they are not living up to what they teach. Additionally, they refuse to help people who struggle with living up to what the teachers are teaching. Verse 2 and 3a appear to be endorsements of of the scribes and Pharisees, while 3b and 4 appear to condemn them.
This is a case of having to remember the different tools available to a speaker (Jesus)/ writer (Matthew) to teach people a point. We note that good teachers will sometimes use irony to strengthen a point. According to D.A. Carson, this is exactly what Jesus (and Matthew) do here. The first two points are ironic, while the second two are non-ironic.
The hint is in verse 2. They put themselves into positions of authority, rather than God putting them in to authority. Think about people who have self-appointed themselves to have authority over your life: what did you think about those moments? In my life, the best thing I could say about those situations is that I was amused (but deep down it made me mad.)
When Jesus says "do and observe", He is being ironic since these teachers don't have genuine authority. Also, if the things they taught were so great, then it would have made a difference in their own life. To illustrate it a different way, "Don't take weight loss advice from an overweight person."
What does this mean to us? We should evaluate what we teach and make sure we are living up to it. There is no room in the Christian life for an attitude of "do what I say, not what I do." Jesus taught what it means to be in relationship with the Father, then He lived it out every day. While the Pharisees refused to help the people under the burden of the law, Jesus' burden is easy and light. The Pharisees placed heavy burdens on others, Jesus bore our burdens and sins so we can have eternal life.
Hope Banquet April 8
The fundraising banquet for Hope Women's Centers is April 8. This year's speaker is Senator Rick Santorum. I am very much looking forward to hearing from him because his family had a life or death decision to make. He and his wife were advised that their child may have developmental issues and to abort their child. They chose life, and Senator Santorum has mentioned often the joy they have found in keeping their child.
If you would like to give to Hope, you can go to www.friendsofhope.com.
Also,there is no cost to attend the banquet, but reservations are required and it is a fundraiser for Hope. You can contact me by April 1 to see if spots are still available.
Finally, pray for Hope Women's Centers, and employees, volunteers, and the clients who come to the centers. Each day, the clients who visit the centers are making life and death decisions. These clients and the people working with them need wisdom as they face the reality of what it means for God to bring a new life into the world.
If you would like to give to Hope, you can go to www.friendsofhope.com.
Also,there is no cost to attend the banquet, but reservations are required and it is a fundraiser for Hope. You can contact me by April 1 to see if spots are still available.
Finally, pray for Hope Women's Centers, and employees, volunteers, and the clients who come to the centers. Each day, the clients who visit the centers are making life and death decisions. These clients and the people working with them need wisdom as they face the reality of what it means for God to bring a new life into the world.
Monday, March 25, 2013
Passion Week: Cleansing of Temple
Matthew 21:10-19; Mark 11:11-17; Luke 19:45-46
After the triumphant entry of Jesus, one of the next scenes is Jesus cleansing the temple by chasing out the money changers. The contrast between the two events is fascinating when you think about it. Earlier, it appears that people are worshiping Jesus, now He is confronting those who are hindering worship from taking place. In fact, the leaders were said to be "indignant" because of the worship given to Jesus.
About the temple cleansing Darrell Bock notes on page 320 of Jesus According to Scriptures:
Rather than trying to "squeeze in" worship around our schedules, maybe we need to approach it differently. Spend time during the week in preparation for worship on Sunday by worshiping daily. Take time on Sunday to pray and prepare your heart for corporate worship. We need to throwout the merchants of convenience that rob us of a relationship with the Holy Spirit and spend time in fellowship with Him. This fellowship with Him will bring about the transformation in our lives, which leads to worship that is authentic and passionate.
After the triumphant entry of Jesus, one of the next scenes is Jesus cleansing the temple by chasing out the money changers. The contrast between the two events is fascinating when you think about it. Earlier, it appears that people are worshiping Jesus, now He is confronting those who are hindering worship from taking place. In fact, the leaders were said to be "indignant" because of the worship given to Jesus.
About the temple cleansing Darrell Bock notes on page 320 of Jesus According to Scriptures:
It is a picture of encroaching commerce as a sign of a heart moving away from worship that Jesus challenges here. In other words, the tables of the money changers represented a worship that was efficient in providing access but did not come with the requisite preparation of the heart. This is what made the temple the home of robbers.I reflected on that idea and the symbolism behind Jesus' action and it is humbling. It is so easy for Christians to think about trying to make things convenient, but God is not interested in that. "Heart" work is hard work. It takes the right attitude, investment of time and energy, and submission to God to be performed.
Rather than trying to "squeeze in" worship around our schedules, maybe we need to approach it differently. Spend time during the week in preparation for worship on Sunday by worshiping daily. Take time on Sunday to pray and prepare your heart for corporate worship. We need to throwout the merchants of convenience that rob us of a relationship with the Holy Spirit and spend time in fellowship with Him. This fellowship with Him will bring about the transformation in our lives, which leads to worship that is authentic and passionate.
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Survey on People's View of Same-Sex Marriage
Interesting new research from Lifeway about people's view of same-sex marriage. I think one of the main points about the article is that it is viewed as a civil rights issue. In other words, the issue of same-sex marriage is on the same level as non-discrimination against others for race, gender, religion, etc. according to the majority of opinions in this survey.
As followers of Christ, we should understand that there are implications on many levels due to this shift in opinion. Understand I'm the type of person who thinks about possible implications to a decision and what the end result might be. In that vein, here are a few questions we should be considering and some next step questions that fall underneath these questions (in no particular order):
What does it mean? I don't really know. I do know we need to be working on addressing these issues. I certainly have my opinion about these and other questions that are coming because of this potential shift in culture. The purpose of my post is to get you thinking about the implications and offer a few words of encouragement.
Isaiah 55:10 (NASU) "For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven,
And do not return there without watering the earth
And making it bear and sprout,
And furnishing seed to the sower and bread to the eater;
11 So will My word be which goes forth from My mouth;
It will not return to Me empty,
Without accomplishing what I desire,
And without succeeding [in the matter] for which I sent it.
It will be God who brings about the results He desires, not us. We should be found faithful telling others the truth and loving our neighbor as our self.
Finally, our ultimate goal is not to change people's behavior. A person's greatest need is not changed behavior but a changed heart. That can only be accomplished when a person accepts Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Even as we discuss topics like this, we must be looking for opportunities to share the Gospel with others. (See 1 Peter 3:8-18)
As followers of Christ, we should understand that there are implications on many levels due to this shift in opinion. Understand I'm the type of person who thinks about possible implications to a decision and what the end result might be. In that vein, here are a few questions we should be considering and some next step questions that fall underneath these questions (in no particular order):
What does this mean for our culture in general?
Can government force business owners, landlords, etc. who are opposed to homosexuality on religious grounds to violate their religious conscience and accommodate homosexual couples?
What does this mean for marriage since the government can define it any way they want?
Does this mean three (or more) people can get married? Brother and sister? (sounds crazy but remember the criteria is that two or more people are in love)
How do we teach our children to view this issue in light of the strong cultural pressure that is coming?
How will this affect what is taught in our public schools?
How do churches adapt to this shift in worldview?
How many churches will hold to the truth of the Bible in the face of cultural opposition?
How do we reach people for Christ when they believe same-sex marriage is a civil rights issue?
Will pastors who preach that homosexuality is a sin be accused of "hate speech?"
Can government force business owners, landlords, etc. who are opposed to homosexuality on religious grounds to violate their religious conscience and accommodate homosexual couples?
What does this mean for marriage since the government can define it any way they want?
Does this mean three (or more) people can get married? Brother and sister? (sounds crazy but remember the criteria is that two or more people are in love)
How do we teach our children to view this issue in light of the strong cultural pressure that is coming?
How will this affect what is taught in our public schools?
How do churches adapt to this shift in worldview?
How many churches will hold to the truth of the Bible in the face of cultural opposition?
How do we reach people for Christ when they believe same-sex marriage is a civil rights issue?
Will pastors who preach that homosexuality is a sin be accused of "hate speech?"
What does it mean? I don't really know. I do know we need to be working on addressing these issues. I certainly have my opinion about these and other questions that are coming because of this potential shift in culture. The purpose of my post is to get you thinking about the implications and offer a few words of encouragement.
- Pray- This is a spiritual issue more than a political or cultural issue. Ask God for wisdom and pray for our leaders to have wisdom on this issue.
- Study God's Word- We need to have God's heart and mind on these issues. That only happens by being in relationship with Him and hearing His voice from Scripture.
- Speak to people with compassion and love- We will not change the culture's view on this issue by screaming louder than them. We must speak the truth in love and have a genuine discussion about why we believe what we believe. Our goal is to allow the Holy Spirit, through our words and deeds, to reveal what is true, knowing we can't argue them into believing something but must allow them to be won over to truth.
Isaiah 55:10 (NASU) "For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven,
And do not return there without watering the earth
And making it bear and sprout,
And furnishing seed to the sower and bread to the eater;
11 So will My word be which goes forth from My mouth;
It will not return to Me empty,
Without accomplishing what I desire,
And without succeeding [in the matter] for which I sent it.
It will be God who brings about the results He desires, not us. We should be found faithful telling others the truth and loving our neighbor as our self.
Finally, our ultimate goal is not to change people's behavior. A person's greatest need is not changed behavior but a changed heart. That can only be accomplished when a person accepts Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Even as we discuss topics like this, we must be looking for opportunities to share the Gospel with others. (See 1 Peter 3:8-18)
Monday, March 18, 2013
The Tragedy of Abortion
There have been some interesting articles on abortion the last couple of weeks that should prompt us to think about the topic. I think this is true because on the one hand, it is important because God is the One who gave us life and we are created in His image, therefore life has worth and value. (See Genesis 9:6 as one example.) Additionally, the devastation abortion has on women and men emotionally years after the event demonstrates the impact of abortion, though it is downplayed in the world as but a "choice."
First, we should be encouraged what is happening in Arkansas and North Dakota. These two states have moved to push back the number of weeks a child can be alive before they can be aborted (12 weeks in Arkansas and 6 in ND.) We should pray that other states move in this direction and encourage our politicians to do the same.
Now, the bad news. A recent article looked at the issue of abortion in China and found that in the last 40 years, there have been 300 million abortions and 200 million sterilizations in the name of "population control." This is a tragedy that should shake us to our very core. Here are a couple of ways to put this into perspective:
First, we should be encouraged what is happening in Arkansas and North Dakota. These two states have moved to push back the number of weeks a child can be alive before they can be aborted (12 weeks in Arkansas and 6 in ND.) We should pray that other states move in this direction and encourage our politicians to do the same.
Now, the bad news. A recent article looked at the issue of abortion in China and found that in the last 40 years, there have been 300 million abortions and 200 million sterilizations in the name of "population control." This is a tragedy that should shake us to our very core. Here are a couple of ways to put this into perspective:
In the last 40 years, the equivalent of population of the United States has ceased to exist.We should pray that the leaders of the U.S. and China would be changed on this issue. Both countries have demographic disasters that are coming because of the missing generations. It is in their national interests to see families having children. Beyond the social and economic arguments though, government was instituted to protect the people, particularly the most vulnerable. We should pray that they take up the challenge of hearing God's charge to the leaders (Romans 13:1-8).
In a similar time frame, the United States has had over 50 million babies aborted.
Called to Freedom and Called to Love
In my previous post, we looked at Galatians 4:6-7 and those found in Christ are no longer slaves. Paul returns to this thought about being freed from slavery to provide a caution. Apparently, some people had decided that because they were saved from the penalty of their sin, they could do whatever they wanted. The reasoning behind this is "God has already forgiven me, so I will do whatever I want know that I'm forgiven."
In Galatians 5:13-14, he addresses this issue. The warning is not to use freedom found in Christ to give in to the desires of the flesh. If your thoughts turn in this direction, it is certainly not the leading of the Holy Spirit. Accepting Jesus as Savior means that we are accepting Him as Lord as well. Lordship means He gets to set the agenda for what we do.
Jesus expects us to do what He did while He was here: love and serve people. Matthew 20:28, Jesus said, "The Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many." Philippians 2:7 tells us that Jesus came as a bond-servant to walk among us. We reflect the character and nature of Jesus when we serve others in love.
For those who mistakenly believe that the God of the Old Testament is somehow different than the God revealed in the New Testament, not verse 14. Paul pulls a quote to remind his readers that we are to love our neighbors. Jesus said this in Matthew 19:19, but Jesus was quoting Leviticus 19:18. Loving people has always been God's expectations of His people.
The great thing is that what God expects us to do (love our neighbors) is also the same way we are going to influence our world. Living out the Gospel is not one more thing to do, it is THE thing to do. This is accomplished by letting the Holy Spirit work in and through us to serve and love others. Like I mentioned last time, it is not about working or trying harder but surrendering more of our life to the Holy Spirit so He can do in us what we can't do ourselves.
In Galatians 5:13-14, he addresses this issue. The warning is not to use freedom found in Christ to give in to the desires of the flesh. If your thoughts turn in this direction, it is certainly not the leading of the Holy Spirit. Accepting Jesus as Savior means that we are accepting Him as Lord as well. Lordship means He gets to set the agenda for what we do.
Jesus expects us to do what He did while He was here: love and serve people. Matthew 20:28, Jesus said, "The Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many." Philippians 2:7 tells us that Jesus came as a bond-servant to walk among us. We reflect the character and nature of Jesus when we serve others in love.
For those who mistakenly believe that the God of the Old Testament is somehow different than the God revealed in the New Testament, not verse 14. Paul pulls a quote to remind his readers that we are to love our neighbors. Jesus said this in Matthew 19:19, but Jesus was quoting Leviticus 19:18. Loving people has always been God's expectations of His people.
The great thing is that what God expects us to do (love our neighbors) is also the same way we are going to influence our world. Living out the Gospel is not one more thing to do, it is THE thing to do. This is accomplished by letting the Holy Spirit work in and through us to serve and love others. Like I mentioned last time, it is not about working or trying harder but surrendering more of our life to the Holy Spirit so He can do in us what we can't do ourselves.
Thursday, March 14, 2013
Deeds of the Flesh Contrasted to Fruits of the Spirit
One of the more fascinating sections of this great letter to the Galatians is Paul's discussion about the works of the flesh and contrasting them to the Fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:19-26.
The deeds of the flesh are talked about in Galatians 5:19-21. Paul puts together a list of things that he says "those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God." I don't think he meant for the list to be exhaustive. In other words, Paul is not saying "if you stay away from these things then your OK." The list is an example of the types of thoughts and actions that demonstrate an unrepentant life.
A couple of thoughts I had as studying these verses come to mind.
Contrast that with the deeds of the flesh. He notes the deeds of the flesh "are,", as if any single one of those deeds keep people from inheriting God's kingdom. This makes even more sense when viewed in light of passages like Galatians 3:10-14 and 5:3 that talk about failing at any part of the Law leads to condemnation.
I note all of that to say this, Christ brings us freedom! The deeds of the flesh are like chains that entangle us and hold us down. Depending upon our own works to save us is like a criminal on the run from justice. Everyday is spent wondering if today is the day I'm confronted with my past, and I have to pay for my past.
On the other hand, the fruit of the spirit is like spring flowers that signal life is present. It is not that the ugliness of our past is completely gone, but in Christ we can see the fruit of the spirit as the indications that the work God has begun in us is working in our lives. In Christ, we are set free to look for those shoots of life that spring up knowing that salvation is not dependent on earning my salvation but resting in faith in the work of Christ.
There is so much more that can be said on this section. Spend time reading it. Examine your life and think about what evidence there is in your life. Are you marked by the deeds of the flesh, or do people see spiritual fruit? If there is a spiritual problem in your life, it is not about working harder but surrendering more to Christ.
The deeds of the flesh are talked about in Galatians 5:19-21. Paul puts together a list of things that he says "those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God." I don't think he meant for the list to be exhaustive. In other words, Paul is not saying "if you stay away from these things then your OK." The list is an example of the types of thoughts and actions that demonstrate an unrepentant life.
A couple of thoughts I had as studying these verses come to mind.
- Paul says warns us about those who "practice" such things. This brings to mind a lifestyle that is built around sin. Romans 7 describes a life that wrestles against sinful actions, but Paul appears to be talking about a life that is marked and characterized by sin. As noted above, a life given over to sin is an indication of an unrepentant life.
- It is interesting that Paul says "the deeds of the flesh are...," while "the fruit of the spirit is..." The reason why I've been thinking about this is from an earlier discussion I have had with a pastor about this passage.
Contrast that with the deeds of the flesh. He notes the deeds of the flesh "are,", as if any single one of those deeds keep people from inheriting God's kingdom. This makes even more sense when viewed in light of passages like Galatians 3:10-14 and 5:3 that talk about failing at any part of the Law leads to condemnation.
I note all of that to say this, Christ brings us freedom! The deeds of the flesh are like chains that entangle us and hold us down. Depending upon our own works to save us is like a criminal on the run from justice. Everyday is spent wondering if today is the day I'm confronted with my past, and I have to pay for my past.
On the other hand, the fruit of the spirit is like spring flowers that signal life is present. It is not that the ugliness of our past is completely gone, but in Christ we can see the fruit of the spirit as the indications that the work God has begun in us is working in our lives. In Christ, we are set free to look for those shoots of life that spring up knowing that salvation is not dependent on earning my salvation but resting in faith in the work of Christ.
There is so much more that can be said on this section. Spend time reading it. Examine your life and think about what evidence there is in your life. Are you marked by the deeds of the flesh, or do people see spiritual fruit? If there is a spiritual problem in your life, it is not about working harder but surrendering more to Christ.
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Christ As Our Substitute
As I mentioned in my previous post, I'm really enjoying Galatians. Paul gives us such a high view of Christ even though it this is probably one of the first New Testament books. Viewing Jesus as fully God and fully man is not something that developed over time. Instead, it has been the churches' understanding of Jesus' deity as equal to God because that is who Jesus said He is.
Galatians 3:10-14 is a great explanation of what Christ has done for us through His death. Paul explains that depending on our own works for salvation (living according to the Law) puts us under a curse. We are cursed because to depend on our own righteousness and works means we must keep all points of the Law to be successful. Of course, no one is able to keep all points of the Law because we are all born with a sin nature.
This is where Christ comes in. He died on the cross and "became a curse for us" for all who place their faith in Him. He took our punishment and placed it upon Himself. This calls to my mind when I would be punished by being sent to my room to think about what I had done, knowing that at the end of my thinking time was a spanking. I dreaded that spanking and can remember wishing I could somehow get out of my punishment. (By the way, I still got the spankings. Their was no reprieve from the governor.)
God does not cancel our punishment for our sin. God is so holy and just that He cannot ignore sin. To ignore sin would be to violate His character traits of holiness. Rather than cancel our debt, He pays it for us through Jesus. He did for us what we cannot do for ourselves.
The substitutionary atonement is scoffed at by a lot of people today. It is one of the major assaults on Christianity in post-Christian cultures of Western Europe and in the U.S. However, passages like Galatians 3 reminds us that Christ willingly became that curse for us. He died in our place so that we could have fellowship with God.
Galatians 3:10-14 is a great explanation of what Christ has done for us through His death. Paul explains that depending on our own works for salvation (living according to the Law) puts us under a curse. We are cursed because to depend on our own righteousness and works means we must keep all points of the Law to be successful. Of course, no one is able to keep all points of the Law because we are all born with a sin nature.
This is where Christ comes in. He died on the cross and "became a curse for us" for all who place their faith in Him. He took our punishment and placed it upon Himself. This calls to my mind when I would be punished by being sent to my room to think about what I had done, knowing that at the end of my thinking time was a spanking. I dreaded that spanking and can remember wishing I could somehow get out of my punishment. (By the way, I still got the spankings. Their was no reprieve from the governor.)
God does not cancel our punishment for our sin. God is so holy and just that He cannot ignore sin. To ignore sin would be to violate His character traits of holiness. Rather than cancel our debt, He pays it for us through Jesus. He did for us what we cannot do for ourselves.
The substitutionary atonement is scoffed at by a lot of people today. It is one of the major assaults on Christianity in post-Christian cultures of Western Europe and in the U.S. However, passages like Galatians 3 reminds us that Christ willingly became that curse for us. He died in our place so that we could have fellowship with God.
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
My Recent Love "Affair" With Galatians
I have been studying Galatians recently and have really been enjoying it. It is easy to read Philippians or Ephesians and extol their virtues because we hear great sermons from those books. I am reading a commentary that said the early church fathers wrote more commentaries on Galatians than any other NT book. Martin Luther descibed it as being as precious to him as his wife. Read this wonderful book and meditate on its meaning.
Here is a brief thought on Galatians 4:7. Paul writes, “Therefore, you are no longer a slave, but a son; and if a son, then an heir through God.” Paul had been describing how we come to being justified before God through faith in Jesus Christ and not through works, being good, or religious practices. God’s grace is much more than being “saved.” This verse tells us first that we are no longer slaves. The chains and bondage of sin are broken. Our slavery has been replaced with adoption into the family of God with the full rights and privileges as an heir! God does more than save us; He showers us with blessings and gives a family.
We should revel in our sonship and invite others to join the family of God by telling others about Jesus.
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