Q: What do you do if you see someone doing something wrong, and it needs to be addressed? I mean, how do you know if God wants you to say something to them about it --- or mind your own business?
A: There is plenty of Scripture available to help us understand that minding your own business is never Biblical. Really it's not. If someone is sinning, Christians are obligated to address the issue with them (Galatians 6:1). Of course to do that effectively, you have to do it in love. Speaking the truth to someone without loving them will just come off as being mean.
So make sure you love the sinner and hate the sin. Then pray and ask God to give you the words and the timing to address the sin you see in someone else's life. And be courageous enough to obey and let the Holy Spirit lead you through that conversation with that person.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Innovation
Q: Does God like innovation? Is it Biblical? What about people who oppose it, such as the Amish?
A: That is a very interesting question! Of course He absolutely loves innovation. After all, He is the Father of innovation (Psalm 121:2). The Bible tells us that every good thing and that all success in life comes from God. Moreover, God always has the best of intentions for us (Jeremiah 29:11).
There is no specific place in the Bible that addresses innovation, invention, etc. But if we look at the character and nature of God, and we look at how Jesus functioned, I believe it's reasonable to conclude that God does indeed like innovation. Just like Jesus turning water in to wine (John 2:1-11), God wants us to be provided for, help us solve our practical problems, etc. So yes, God likes innovation.
People who don't participate in modern innovations, such as the Amish, are refraining for another reason. Their view is not that a car, for example, is evil. Rather their view is that maintaining a simple life, uncluttered with modern technology - for example, is easier to maintain righteous life and a godly point of view. (If you think about it, a horse and buggy were innovations in their day.)
Now while God likes innovation, let's remember that anything God or mankind intends for good can be perverted by Satan. Television, for example, can be considered a marvelous innovation that does a world of good. There is a plethora of good, righteous programming available on television. At the same time, there is plenty of seriously perverse programming available as well. So let's condition this point of view and say that God likes innovation when it has some boundaries and discipline on it to keep it from being perverted by the enemy.
A: That is a very interesting question! Of course He absolutely loves innovation. After all, He is the Father of innovation (Psalm 121:2). The Bible tells us that every good thing and that all success in life comes from God. Moreover, God always has the best of intentions for us (Jeremiah 29:11).
There is no specific place in the Bible that addresses innovation, invention, etc. But if we look at the character and nature of God, and we look at how Jesus functioned, I believe it's reasonable to conclude that God does indeed like innovation. Just like Jesus turning water in to wine (John 2:1-11), God wants us to be provided for, help us solve our practical problems, etc. So yes, God likes innovation.
People who don't participate in modern innovations, such as the Amish, are refraining for another reason. Their view is not that a car, for example, is evil. Rather their view is that maintaining a simple life, uncluttered with modern technology - for example, is easier to maintain righteous life and a godly point of view. (If you think about it, a horse and buggy were innovations in their day.)
Now while God likes innovation, let's remember that anything God or mankind intends for good can be perverted by Satan. Television, for example, can be considered a marvelous innovation that does a world of good. There is a plethora of good, righteous programming available on television. At the same time, there is plenty of seriously perverse programming available as well. So let's condition this point of view and say that God likes innovation when it has some boundaries and discipline on it to keep it from being perverted by the enemy.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Proper Prayer
Q: I've always been taught that God loves our prayers when they are sincere and from the heart. I've also been taught that when we pray according to God's will, we should expect to get "the desires of our heart." So my question is how we know if we are praying according to God's will? How can we know if our prayer is effective?
A: I think the best answer to your question is to look at the prayer which Jesus modeled for us. Of course Jesus told us how to pray and gave us a specific example in the Lord's Prayer ("Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be they name ...") But what has been more useful to me has been to look at how Jesus Himself prayed.
Jesus was intentional about making prayer a priority. He removed Himself from the hustle and bustle of work and even friends. He set aside substantial amounts of time to go and be alone with the Lord to pray. We should do that too.
Jesus prayed His heart, but He also conceded the priority of God's will over the desire of His heart. The most specific example was his prayer the night before He was arrested (Luke 22:41-43). Jesus knew what was coming down and He knew it would be ugly. So He started with a typical human prayer. But then He did something that only someone who sees beyond their humanity could do. He submitted Himself to God's will. "Lord, if it would please you, I'd like an alternative to this. But if it wouldn't please You, then please give me the grace and strength to walk through it in a way that brings honor and glory to You."
I believe the error that most Christians make is to simply pray the obvious, from a human perspective. For example, if my grandmother is ill I will pray for her complete healing. However, that ignores the fact that she is 90 years old and it is well known that God's will for us is to bring an end to our human lives when we are in that age range.
So a more effective prayer for grandma might be something like, "Lord, I don't want grandma to die. So if it would please you, I ask for her complete healing. However, if you are ready to take her, then I ask that she not suffer. And I ask that you give us the strength and grace to focus on the blessing that she's been and not on the loss we feel. Help us to accept your will for her. And if it is your will that we live without her now, then help us to keep our pain and feelings of loss in their proper perspective. Help us to go on living lives that honor grandma's legacy and bring glory to you, dear Father. These things I ask in Jesus' name. Amen."
Notice the difference in that prayer or the basic, human prayer of "Lord, heal grandma." The thing is that God's perspective and His heart are usually much bigger than ours. So we must take time to think beyond our own human emotions and perspective to really consider - based on what we know of His nature and character - what might be God's heart on whatever might be the matter at hand.
Finally, another excellent example of how to pray effectively is found in the dialogue that occurred between God and King Solomon (1 Kings 3:5-15). God offered to grant absolutely any request that Solomon might have to make. Read this passage and look at the words. Look at the condition of Solomon's heart at the time. But Solomon asked only for wisdom. And this pleased God greatly. Why? Look at the motive behind Solomon's request. It was a self-less motive, bathed in humility. And it was motivated by Solomon's desire to serve others as well as glorify God. These same dynamics should bathe the requests that you and I make of God.
A: I think the best answer to your question is to look at the prayer which Jesus modeled for us. Of course Jesus told us how to pray and gave us a specific example in the Lord's Prayer ("Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be they name ...") But what has been more useful to me has been to look at how Jesus Himself prayed.
Jesus was intentional about making prayer a priority. He removed Himself from the hustle and bustle of work and even friends. He set aside substantial amounts of time to go and be alone with the Lord to pray. We should do that too.
Jesus prayed His heart, but He also conceded the priority of God's will over the desire of His heart. The most specific example was his prayer the night before He was arrested (Luke 22:41-43). Jesus knew what was coming down and He knew it would be ugly. So He started with a typical human prayer. But then He did something that only someone who sees beyond their humanity could do. He submitted Himself to God's will. "Lord, if it would please you, I'd like an alternative to this. But if it wouldn't please You, then please give me the grace and strength to walk through it in a way that brings honor and glory to You."
I believe the error that most Christians make is to simply pray the obvious, from a human perspective. For example, if my grandmother is ill I will pray for her complete healing. However, that ignores the fact that she is 90 years old and it is well known that God's will for us is to bring an end to our human lives when we are in that age range.
So a more effective prayer for grandma might be something like, "Lord, I don't want grandma to die. So if it would please you, I ask for her complete healing. However, if you are ready to take her, then I ask that she not suffer. And I ask that you give us the strength and grace to focus on the blessing that she's been and not on the loss we feel. Help us to accept your will for her. And if it is your will that we live without her now, then help us to keep our pain and feelings of loss in their proper perspective. Help us to go on living lives that honor grandma's legacy and bring glory to you, dear Father. These things I ask in Jesus' name. Amen."
Notice the difference in that prayer or the basic, human prayer of "Lord, heal grandma." The thing is that God's perspective and His heart are usually much bigger than ours. So we must take time to think beyond our own human emotions and perspective to really consider - based on what we know of His nature and character - what might be God's heart on whatever might be the matter at hand.
Finally, another excellent example of how to pray effectively is found in the dialogue that occurred between God and King Solomon (1 Kings 3:5-15). God offered to grant absolutely any request that Solomon might have to make. Read this passage and look at the words. Look at the condition of Solomon's heart at the time. But Solomon asked only for wisdom. And this pleased God greatly. Why? Look at the motive behind Solomon's request. It was a self-less motive, bathed in humility. And it was motivated by Solomon's desire to serve others as well as glorify God. These same dynamics should bathe the requests that you and I make of God.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Horse Heaven
Q: Do horses go to heaven?
A: No. Only people go to heaven. And even then, only the people who are reconciled to God through Jesus Christ go to heaven.
We always like our animals and like to think of dogs, cats or even horses as being with us in heaven. We're just certain that God is such a fan of them as we are. But consider that if horses went to heaven, so would feral hogs, skunks, goats and all sorts of critters. Heaven is for spiritual beings. Animals are not and have never been spiritual beings.
A: No. Only people go to heaven. And even then, only the people who are reconciled to God through Jesus Christ go to heaven.
We always like our animals and like to think of dogs, cats or even horses as being with us in heaven. We're just certain that God is such a fan of them as we are. But consider that if horses went to heaven, so would feral hogs, skunks, goats and all sorts of critters. Heaven is for spiritual beings. Animals are not and have never been spiritual beings.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Biblical Names?
Q: Why do so many people name their kids after characters in the Bible? Is that disrespectful or respectful to do so?
A: I'm not sure that so many people do. There are hundreds, if not thousands of names in the Bible ... and most of them are not used or even considered useful in modern culture. Consider the last time you heard of someone naming their child Ichabod, or Habakkuk, to name a few. At the same time, I believe that quite often people give their child a new without realizing that it is from the Bible or what it's original meaning might have been. (Most names had a Hebrew meaning that may have described the character or heritage of the individual.)
When people do knowingly give their child a name from the Bible, it is most likely because they prefer the sound of that name. Or perhaps they admire the individual and feel in some way that they are honoring that individual by re-using their name. Curiously, nobody in western culture names their child Jesus - or any of the names for God.
It could be respectful to name your child after a particular character in the Bible. This would be tantamount to name the child after a favorite grandmother, etc. I don't see any way that naming your child after a Bible character could be disrespectful though. It's curious to me that you would ask. Somehow I get the feeling that your question doesn't represent all that's on your mind in this regard.
A: I'm not sure that so many people do. There are hundreds, if not thousands of names in the Bible ... and most of them are not used or even considered useful in modern culture. Consider the last time you heard of someone naming their child Ichabod, or Habakkuk, to name a few. At the same time, I believe that quite often people give their child a new without realizing that it is from the Bible or what it's original meaning might have been. (Most names had a Hebrew meaning that may have described the character or heritage of the individual.)
When people do knowingly give their child a name from the Bible, it is most likely because they prefer the sound of that name. Or perhaps they admire the individual and feel in some way that they are honoring that individual by re-using their name. Curiously, nobody in western culture names their child Jesus - or any of the names for God.
It could be respectful to name your child after a particular character in the Bible. This would be tantamount to name the child after a favorite grandmother, etc. I don't see any way that naming your child after a Bible character could be disrespectful though. It's curious to me that you would ask. Somehow I get the feeling that your question doesn't represent all that's on your mind in this regard.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Predestination
Q: How do we know that predestination is real? I mean where exactly does the Bible spell it out? Aren't people who believe in predestination reading a lot into Scripture ... maybe more than even God intended?
A: Oh my gosh, there are literally dozens and dozens of Bible verses in both the Old and New Testaments that confirm the concept of predestination. It starts with Adam & Eve in the garden. God created the world and everything in it. Then He laid forth some guidelines. When Adam & Eve failed to follow them, God told them how it was going to be. In fact, He told them how it was going to be for all of mankind!
The theme continues in many chapters and verses. An Old Testament favorite is Jeremiah 1:4-5, where God says, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart ..." He's basically saying that we were known spiritual beings before we started down that path to become human beings. And when we became human beings, God had a plan in place for us.
A New Testament favorite is Romans 8:29-30, where the Apostle Paul tells us that, "For those God foreknew He predestined to be conformed in the image of His Son ... and those He predestined He also called; and those He called He also justified; and those He justified He also glorified." What Paul is saying is that God knew which of us would become Christ-followers. And He created us with the plan that we become spiritually like His own Son (Jesus). In other words, when we became human beings, God knew us and had a plan for us (as humans).
There are so many other Bible verses that confirm the concept of predestination, that it would be impossible to list them all here without bringing the blog server down! Seriously, there are just too many for there to be a practical debate. But as you read the Bible, notice how things are explained in terms of what will happen. "If you do this, God will do that. If this happens, then that will be the outcome." Basically anywhere you see this, you're seeing predestination.
God has a plan and a will. He didn't create chaos to rule itself. And God's will being carried out is predestination. It is the action of God deciding how things will be and how things will happen. And it is the action of God following up to see that things go down that way.
A: Oh my gosh, there are literally dozens and dozens of Bible verses in both the Old and New Testaments that confirm the concept of predestination. It starts with Adam & Eve in the garden. God created the world and everything in it. Then He laid forth some guidelines. When Adam & Eve failed to follow them, God told them how it was going to be. In fact, He told them how it was going to be for all of mankind!
The theme continues in many chapters and verses. An Old Testament favorite is Jeremiah 1:4-5, where God says, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart ..." He's basically saying that we were known spiritual beings before we started down that path to become human beings. And when we became human beings, God had a plan in place for us.
A New Testament favorite is Romans 8:29-30, where the Apostle Paul tells us that, "For those God foreknew He predestined to be conformed in the image of His Son ... and those He predestined He also called; and those He called He also justified; and those He justified He also glorified." What Paul is saying is that God knew which of us would become Christ-followers. And He created us with the plan that we become spiritually like His own Son (Jesus). In other words, when we became human beings, God knew us and had a plan for us (as humans).
There are so many other Bible verses that confirm the concept of predestination, that it would be impossible to list them all here without bringing the blog server down! Seriously, there are just too many for there to be a practical debate. But as you read the Bible, notice how things are explained in terms of what will happen. "If you do this, God will do that. If this happens, then that will be the outcome." Basically anywhere you see this, you're seeing predestination.
God has a plan and a will. He didn't create chaos to rule itself. And God's will being carried out is predestination. It is the action of God deciding how things will be and how things will happen. And it is the action of God following up to see that things go down that way.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Complete Forgiveness
Q: I know that Christ-followers are compelled to forgive everyone and everything. And I've read your blog about sometimes God has to help bring about that kind of complete forgiveness. So what are the signs of complete forgiveness? How do you know if the forgiveness is sufficient, adequate, complete, etc.?
A: Complete forgiveness is always evidenced by actions. If I forgive you, but don't ever want to see you again - my forgiveness isn't complete. Another way to look at it is that the result of completed forgiveness will always be reconciliation.
When God forgives us, He separates us from our sin "as far as the east is from the west." (Psalm 103:12) And then God treats us as if we had never sinned. He relates to us as though the sin had never been committed at all. In His eyes, we are sinless.
This is the kind of forgiveness that Christ-followers are compelled to offer others. We'll have a hard time, as humans, separating them from the offense "as far as the east is from the west." that's why we most likely will need God's help to accomplish that level of effective forgiveness. So if you want to know whether or not the forgiveness is real and complete, look at the strength of the reconciliation. Is the relationship completely restored - as though the matter to be forgiven had never happened? If not, then the forgiveness needs more work.
A: Complete forgiveness is always evidenced by actions. If I forgive you, but don't ever want to see you again - my forgiveness isn't complete. Another way to look at it is that the result of completed forgiveness will always be reconciliation.
When God forgives us, He separates us from our sin "as far as the east is from the west." (Psalm 103:12) And then God treats us as if we had never sinned. He relates to us as though the sin had never been committed at all. In His eyes, we are sinless.
This is the kind of forgiveness that Christ-followers are compelled to offer others. We'll have a hard time, as humans, separating them from the offense "as far as the east is from the west." that's why we most likely will need God's help to accomplish that level of effective forgiveness. So if you want to know whether or not the forgiveness is real and complete, look at the strength of the reconciliation. Is the relationship completely restored - as though the matter to be forgiven had never happened? If not, then the forgiveness needs more work.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Relative Conflict
Q: I have a relative whom I am almost constantly fighting with about something. No matter how much I resolve to "get along" it seems we still end up in conflict with each other. What can I do?
A: God is not the author of conflict. Rather He is the author of unity. So let's start there. This conflict that you have then is not of God. It is therefore caused by some evil somewhere. James 4:1 tells us that arguments and other sorts of conflict are caused by "desires that battle within you" - which are evil in nature.
What does that mean? It means that whenever there is conflict there is sin. It may be your sin. It may be his sin. I may be both of you who are in sin. It may even be the sin of a third party that causes you to quarrel. But whatever the source, you can be sure that sin is behind the conflict.
Christ followers have only three options when it comes to being impacted by the sin of others. First, we can confront it and try to change it. Second, we can forgive it and overlook it. Or third, if the confrontation hasn't been effective - we can separate from the source. In other words, just because someone is a blood relative doesn't require you to maintain a relationship with them ... if you've tried to address the source of the sin and they won't back off.
The only thing wrong between you and your relative then is your reaction to each other. Look for the sin, and then ask God to show you how best to respond to it.
A: God is not the author of conflict. Rather He is the author of unity. So let's start there. This conflict that you have then is not of God. It is therefore caused by some evil somewhere. James 4:1 tells us that arguments and other sorts of conflict are caused by "desires that battle within you" - which are evil in nature.
What does that mean? It means that whenever there is conflict there is sin. It may be your sin. It may be his sin. I may be both of you who are in sin. It may even be the sin of a third party that causes you to quarrel. But whatever the source, you can be sure that sin is behind the conflict.
Christ followers have only three options when it comes to being impacted by the sin of others. First, we can confront it and try to change it. Second, we can forgive it and overlook it. Or third, if the confrontation hasn't been effective - we can separate from the source. In other words, just because someone is a blood relative doesn't require you to maintain a relationship with them ... if you've tried to address the source of the sin and they won't back off.
The only thing wrong between you and your relative then is your reaction to each other. Look for the sin, and then ask God to show you how best to respond to it.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Christmas Error?
Q: I've heard that Luke 2:14 is not accurately stated in our Christmas recitations. Someone in our church told me that it doesn't actually say "Peace on earth, goodwill toward men." I looked in my Bible and it doesn't. So where does that come from?
A: Luke 2:14 has been a misnomer for many Christians to figure out. The King James version (translation) of the Bible does say, "Peace on earth, goodwill toward men." However, the original manuscripts translate into something a bit different, more like, "Peace on earth, toward men of goodwill." The order of the words in the sentence makes a world of difference!
If you look at other translations of the Bible, you'll find that they tend to follow this latter translation pretty consistently. It's not an error, but rather just one way of translating it. Remember the English language is the most complex language on earth. No other language has as many variables and options as English does. So it is impossible to make a word for word translation from any language to English. Rather one must consider the context and try to select English words that best reflect what's being said.
We should think of Luke 2:14 as saying, "Peace on earth, toward men of good will." The context for that is simply Jesus birth, death and resurrection. Peace on earth is only for those whom Jesus has saved. It isn't intended for anyone else. In fact, anyone who is not soft will get the opposite of peace on earth!
A: Luke 2:14 has been a misnomer for many Christians to figure out. The King James version (translation) of the Bible does say, "Peace on earth, goodwill toward men." However, the original manuscripts translate into something a bit different, more like, "Peace on earth, toward men of goodwill." The order of the words in the sentence makes a world of difference!
If you look at other translations of the Bible, you'll find that they tend to follow this latter translation pretty consistently. It's not an error, but rather just one way of translating it. Remember the English language is the most complex language on earth. No other language has as many variables and options as English does. So it is impossible to make a word for word translation from any language to English. Rather one must consider the context and try to select English words that best reflect what's being said.
We should think of Luke 2:14 as saying, "Peace on earth, toward men of good will." The context for that is simply Jesus birth, death and resurrection. Peace on earth is only for those whom Jesus has saved. It isn't intended for anyone else. In fact, anyone who is not soft will get the opposite of peace on earth!
Saturday, January 22, 2011
After God's Heart
Q: I know that King David of the Old Testament was called "a man after God's own heart." But wasn't David a warrior who killed lots of people? And didn't he sleep with Bathsheba and then murder her husband to hide his sin? How could anyone call him "a man after God's own heart?"
A: You're referring to Acts 13:22 where the Apostle Paul reports that God, after removing Saul from the throne (of Israel) replaced him with David. At that time, God is reported to have said of David, "I have found David to be a man after my own heart. He will do everything I want him to do."
Why would God say such a thing? Because God look at David's heart. He found a humble, contrite heart with a sincere desire to do good. You'll be hard-pressed to find David doing any killing that God didn't want done. He was killing evil people, and God usually gave him the upper hand in those battles.
In terms of his adultery with Bathsheba, lying about it and having her husband killed to hide it, this may have been the most sordid point in David's life. In modern terms, we might say he "hit bottom." Fortunately God doesn't judge us by what we do. Rather He judges us by what we do with what we do. In other words, God looks for how we respond to our own sin. We all sin. Everyone sins. Jesus was the only human on earth to ever avoid sinning.
But the heart of God is found in the man (or woman) who responds to their sin with repentance, a sincere grief for sin committed (James 4:9) and a consistent effort to obey God in all matters. David was a man after God's own heart not because of what he did or didn't do. Rather he got that title for who he was. (You and I can get that title the same way!)
A: You're referring to Acts 13:22 where the Apostle Paul reports that God, after removing Saul from the throne (of Israel) replaced him with David. At that time, God is reported to have said of David, "I have found David to be a man after my own heart. He will do everything I want him to do."
Why would God say such a thing? Because God look at David's heart. He found a humble, contrite heart with a sincere desire to do good. You'll be hard-pressed to find David doing any killing that God didn't want done. He was killing evil people, and God usually gave him the upper hand in those battles.
In terms of his adultery with Bathsheba, lying about it and having her husband killed to hide it, this may have been the most sordid point in David's life. In modern terms, we might say he "hit bottom." Fortunately God doesn't judge us by what we do. Rather He judges us by what we do with what we do. In other words, God looks for how we respond to our own sin. We all sin. Everyone sins. Jesus was the only human on earth to ever avoid sinning.
But the heart of God is found in the man (or woman) who responds to their sin with repentance, a sincere grief for sin committed (James 4:9) and a consistent effort to obey God in all matters. David was a man after God's own heart not because of what he did or didn't do. Rather he got that title for who he was. (You and I can get that title the same way!)
Friday, January 21, 2011
Trying Forgiveness
Q: I know that Christians are supposed to forgive others and all that. But it seems that something else is required than to just say that God will give you the power to do that. Aren't there some mechanics that have to take place in our thinking before forgiveness becomes possible or real?
A: Yes, I suppose there are. It has been said that forgiveness is only possible when we give up the hope that the past can be any different. If you examine the mechanics of forgiveness, you'll see that this is true. I can't, for example, forgive you for something you did --- all the while holding on to the lament that I wish you hadn't done it. I really must stop wishing that if my forgiveness on the matter is to ever become complete.
Often the source of our bitterness and resentment in a matter are really coming from our holding onto some sense of entitlement (i.e., "I didn't deserve that."). Additionally, it can come from our continuing to hold onto a hope that can never be.
For example, if I wanted my daughter to grow up to be a doctor or lawyer, and she instead married, had babies and is a stay-at-home mother, I may continue to wish that she had been a doctor or lawyer. But if I keep holding onto that wish, I will never be able to fully forgive her for not meeting my expectations.
A: Yes, I suppose there are. It has been said that forgiveness is only possible when we give up the hope that the past can be any different. If you examine the mechanics of forgiveness, you'll see that this is true. I can't, for example, forgive you for something you did --- all the while holding on to the lament that I wish you hadn't done it. I really must stop wishing that if my forgiveness on the matter is to ever become complete.
Often the source of our bitterness and resentment in a matter are really coming from our holding onto some sense of entitlement (i.e., "I didn't deserve that."). Additionally, it can come from our continuing to hold onto a hope that can never be.
For example, if I wanted my daughter to grow up to be a doctor or lawyer, and she instead married, had babies and is a stay-at-home mother, I may continue to wish that she had been a doctor or lawyer. But if I keep holding onto that wish, I will never be able to fully forgive her for not meeting my expectations.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Pessimist vs. Optimist?
Q: I really get tired of the doom and gloom outlook of some people. They look at the circumstances around us and conclude that "the world is going to hell in a hand-basket" - to coin a phrase of one of my co-workers. Aren't Christian supposed to be optimistic people? Don't we of all people have reason for hope? Shouldn't we have positive attitudes about the future?
A: What you say is partially true. Christians do have reason for hope. Considerable reason. But that hope is not tied to the circumstances here on earth. That hope is not tied to world peace, or a strong economy. It isn't buffeted by unemployment or inflation or corruption. It is grounded in the fact that we are spiritual beings, having a human experience. And our hope is not found in that human experience.
Look at the book of Revelation, the last book in the Protestant Bible. It foretells a world that frankly is pretty unnerving. Wars, natural disasters, corruption, pain and other anguishing signs are to be increasingly upon this world that we live in. So your co-worker, for example, is right. The world is "going to hell in a hand-basket!" But these are signs of divine prophecy. These are the signs that Jesus' return is imminent. That is the reason for our hope.
Christians should have a positive outlook on life, because we see it as eternal. And we should always be prepared to explain the reason for our hope (1 Peter 3:15) - helping others understand that hope isn't dependent on these worldly circumstances. This whole business of "the power of positive thinking" is frankly a bunch of man-made bunk. It isn't for true Christ-followers. For this world will pass away (1 John 2:17) --- and that is our reason for hope.
The wars, natural disasters and other issues that humans face in this earthly life? They might even be viewed as evidence of the fact that the world is in the process of passing away. So as Christians, we should be supportive and loving of the people who are suffering. But we should not be confused about what this suffering means.
A: What you say is partially true. Christians do have reason for hope. Considerable reason. But that hope is not tied to the circumstances here on earth. That hope is not tied to world peace, or a strong economy. It isn't buffeted by unemployment or inflation or corruption. It is grounded in the fact that we are spiritual beings, having a human experience. And our hope is not found in that human experience.
Look at the book of Revelation, the last book in the Protestant Bible. It foretells a world that frankly is pretty unnerving. Wars, natural disasters, corruption, pain and other anguishing signs are to be increasingly upon this world that we live in. So your co-worker, for example, is right. The world is "going to hell in a hand-basket!" But these are signs of divine prophecy. These are the signs that Jesus' return is imminent. That is the reason for our hope.
Christians should have a positive outlook on life, because we see it as eternal. And we should always be prepared to explain the reason for our hope (1 Peter 3:15) - helping others understand that hope isn't dependent on these worldly circumstances. This whole business of "the power of positive thinking" is frankly a bunch of man-made bunk. It isn't for true Christ-followers. For this world will pass away (1 John 2:17) --- and that is our reason for hope.
The wars, natural disasters and other issues that humans face in this earthly life? They might even be viewed as evidence of the fact that the world is in the process of passing away. So as Christians, we should be supportive and loving of the people who are suffering. But we should not be confused about what this suffering means.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Iron Sharpenin
Q: Proverbs 27:17 says that, "Iron sharpens iron, as one man sharpens another." How exactly does this happen in normal Christian relationships?
A: That would depend on how you define "normal Christian relationships." 1 Peter 5:5 gives a very important clue about how "normal Christian relationships" are to be defined. It says, in context, that we are each to submit ourselves to an "elder" among us. The term elder is commonly thought to mean someone who is chronologically older. But if you read that whole chapter, you see that an "elder" is better defined in spiritual terms --- someone having authority over you.
Christian relationships are first and foremost relationships of submission. Christ Himself is our model, as He submitted himself to the confining dimensions of humanity, to the worldly leaders around Him and finally of course to His Father God and His perfect will. Christ-followers are nothing if they are not submitted. We submit ourselves first to God and His will, to Jesus Christ and to the Holy Spirit. In terms of our human relationships, we also submit ourselves to each other.
Iron sharpens iron as one man (or woman) submits to another. James 5:16 tells us, "Confess your sins one to another ..." Again, the model of confession is a model of submission. So if you want to be sharpened, find someone who is trustworthy and submit yourself to that person.
Notice I didn't say find someone whom you trust. Rather pray and ask God to show you whom it is that He would like you to submit yourself to. Seek that person out and tell them specifically what you are doing. "I want to submit myself to you for the iron-sharpening-iron process. I'll be confessing my sins to you and I'd like you to help me live an examined life by asking me the probing questions that I need to be asked."
Iron sharpens iron, as we submit ourselves. People who aren't submitted or who fail to submit, of course are then not sharpened. As a result, their faith and their walk with God are dull. Their level of Christianity is dull and ineffective. Sharpened people stand out. They make a difference. They are "salt and light" in the world around us.
A: That would depend on how you define "normal Christian relationships." 1 Peter 5:5 gives a very important clue about how "normal Christian relationships" are to be defined. It says, in context, that we are each to submit ourselves to an "elder" among us. The term elder is commonly thought to mean someone who is chronologically older. But if you read that whole chapter, you see that an "elder" is better defined in spiritual terms --- someone having authority over you.
Christian relationships are first and foremost relationships of submission. Christ Himself is our model, as He submitted himself to the confining dimensions of humanity, to the worldly leaders around Him and finally of course to His Father God and His perfect will. Christ-followers are nothing if they are not submitted. We submit ourselves first to God and His will, to Jesus Christ and to the Holy Spirit. In terms of our human relationships, we also submit ourselves to each other.
Iron sharpens iron as one man (or woman) submits to another. James 5:16 tells us, "Confess your sins one to another ..." Again, the model of confession is a model of submission. So if you want to be sharpened, find someone who is trustworthy and submit yourself to that person.
Notice I didn't say find someone whom you trust. Rather pray and ask God to show you whom it is that He would like you to submit yourself to. Seek that person out and tell them specifically what you are doing. "I want to submit myself to you for the iron-sharpening-iron process. I'll be confessing my sins to you and I'd like you to help me live an examined life by asking me the probing questions that I need to be asked."
Iron sharpens iron, as we submit ourselves. People who aren't submitted or who fail to submit, of course are then not sharpened. As a result, their faith and their walk with God are dull. Their level of Christianity is dull and ineffective. Sharpened people stand out. They make a difference. They are "salt and light" in the world around us.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Talk To the Dead
Q: I thought that the occult, fortune tellers, mediums, etc. were not allowed for Christians. But I recently read in 1 Samuel 28 about how Israel's King Saul used a medium to call up and speak to a dead prophet, Samuel. How can this be? He was God's chosen and anointed king (for Israel)!
A: Look at that chapter again. And read the whole story of King Saul. Yes, he as God's chosen and anointed king. However he disobeyed God to such an extent that God separated Himself from Saul and said that He would take His kingdom from him and hand it to David. So basically he was no longer God's chosen leader for Israel. More importantly, God was no longer with him. (That is why he sought to call up the dead ... so he could get advice after God refused to answer his prayer.)
In order to really understand this Scripture reference, you would also have to read about the devil and how he works. The occult and all of its realms are of the devil. They are evil. And God's people (you and me) are to have nothing to do with them. But if you study evil in the Bible, you learn that demons can imitate God, imitate others, etc. In fact, they can replicate many of the miracles that God Himself produced. The deception is that big!
The medium that King Saul sought in this verse did not call up the prophet Samuel. She called up a demon who imitated the prophet Samuel. For proof, look at what the demon said to King Saul. He told him he there is no hope, and that he and his army were about to die. Moreover, he told Saul that after he died, "You will join me." Think about where that demon lives. (In hell.) Yikes!
Understand this, witchcraft, the occult, fortune telling, zodiac, etc. are expressly forbidden in the Bible. And the word of the occult will never yield true hope or anything else that is good and useful. If it seems otherwise, you are being deceived by the enemy himself.
A: Look at that chapter again. And read the whole story of King Saul. Yes, he as God's chosen and anointed king. However he disobeyed God to such an extent that God separated Himself from Saul and said that He would take His kingdom from him and hand it to David. So basically he was no longer God's chosen leader for Israel. More importantly, God was no longer with him. (That is why he sought to call up the dead ... so he could get advice after God refused to answer his prayer.)
In order to really understand this Scripture reference, you would also have to read about the devil and how he works. The occult and all of its realms are of the devil. They are evil. And God's people (you and me) are to have nothing to do with them. But if you study evil in the Bible, you learn that demons can imitate God, imitate others, etc. In fact, they can replicate many of the miracles that God Himself produced. The deception is that big!
The medium that King Saul sought in this verse did not call up the prophet Samuel. She called up a demon who imitated the prophet Samuel. For proof, look at what the demon said to King Saul. He told him he there is no hope, and that he and his army were about to die. Moreover, he told Saul that after he died, "You will join me." Think about where that demon lives. (In hell.) Yikes!
Understand this, witchcraft, the occult, fortune telling, zodiac, etc. are expressly forbidden in the Bible. And the word of the occult will never yield true hope or anything else that is good and useful. If it seems otherwise, you are being deceived by the enemy himself.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Giving Requests
Q: It seems that we are being attacked by requests for donations to various charities. Honestly, the Girl Scouts are knocking on the door with their cookies. The Cancer Society is calling about clothing donations. Our church is having a canned food drive this week. And we got letters this week from at least five (5) different charities asking for me. I have to confess to feeling more than a bit overwhelmed by it all. Individually, these all seem like worthwhile things to donate money to. Other other hand, we just don't have enough money to make donations to them all. Even if I wanted to, I couldn't satisfy all of these requests. Help!
A: The problem here is clear. You're trying to make decisions based on circumstances. You listen to the people and their circumstance (or that of their particular charity). Then you look at your own circumstance to see whether you agree with their charity's mission and how much discretionary money you have on hand. Then you make the decision to give or not give.
So how should you make the decision? You should take each of the requests and pray over them. Many of us are experiencing "donor fatigue," where we become weary from all the requests. The truth is that there are more legitimate charities whose mission I agree with than I could ever support financially.
You take the matter - each time - and ask the Lord. "Father God, is this a charity that you want me to give money to? If so, how much and when?" You may talk to God about whether or not you agree with the charity's mission, how it pulls at your heart, etc. But ultimately, you just commit yourself to doing whatever it is He tells you. And don't be surprised if God tells you NOT to give to most of them.
Not all supposedly "good cause" charities are worthy of your donation. Some lie about their mission and accomplish little. Other times, they are trying to do something that they're not qualified to do. The thing is, even if they are a legitimate charity ordained by God Himself ... it doesn't mean their financial support has to come from you. Perhaps God has another way of supporting them that He hasn't revealed to you yet. Or perhaps God would like to see them go out of business (for whatever reason).
The point is we pray about everything, especially when it comes to money.
A: The problem here is clear. You're trying to make decisions based on circumstances. You listen to the people and their circumstance (or that of their particular charity). Then you look at your own circumstance to see whether you agree with their charity's mission and how much discretionary money you have on hand. Then you make the decision to give or not give.
So how should you make the decision? You should take each of the requests and pray over them. Many of us are experiencing "donor fatigue," where we become weary from all the requests. The truth is that there are more legitimate charities whose mission I agree with than I could ever support financially.
You take the matter - each time - and ask the Lord. "Father God, is this a charity that you want me to give money to? If so, how much and when?" You may talk to God about whether or not you agree with the charity's mission, how it pulls at your heart, etc. But ultimately, you just commit yourself to doing whatever it is He tells you. And don't be surprised if God tells you NOT to give to most of them.
Not all supposedly "good cause" charities are worthy of your donation. Some lie about their mission and accomplish little. Other times, they are trying to do something that they're not qualified to do. The thing is, even if they are a legitimate charity ordained by God Himself ... it doesn't mean their financial support has to come from you. Perhaps God has another way of supporting them that He hasn't revealed to you yet. Or perhaps God would like to see them go out of business (for whatever reason).
The point is we pray about everything, especially when it comes to money.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Good Christian?
Q: What is a true Christian? I mean, what is the definition of a true Christian, or a good Christian? We hear the term used so loosely, but how many people really have a proper understanding of what being a Christian is about?
A: Common dictionaries define a Christian as someone who believes in Jesus as the Messiah. Or they might define a Christian as someone who follows the teachings of Jesus. But the problem identified in the question here is that the definition of a true or good Christian is just to ambiguous. The earliest Christians that history records are found in the New Testament church. They’re written about in the New Testament book of Acts. They were called Christians because their behaviors, actions and speech were like those of Christ Himself. Translated from the original language, the word Christian means “part of Christ.”
So that’s a good place to start to define a Christian. People often say that they believe in God or believe in Jesus, and they think that makes them a Christian. Sadly, even the demons believe in God or believe in Jesus. What Christians do is believe in a certain definition of God that is quite unlike the definition any other religion gives its god. Our god is defined as the triune Father, Son and Holy Spirit. He is three in one. So if you want to be a true Christian, let’s get your definition of God right in the first place.
Now many people will have their definition of God right, but they still won’t be a good Christian. They may be going to church regularly, tithing, serving, etc. But they may still not be a good Christian. Why would that be? Consider that a number of the New Testament authors identified themselves as “slaves” of Jesus Christ. What do slaves do? How do slaves live? For those of you who may not be familiar with slavery, slaves do whatever their master tells them to. Slaves live however their master tells them to. They only do what they have specific permission to do. And the notion of disobedience or failure to obey is never an option for a slave.
Therefore, the true definition of a good Christian is someone who is in slavery to Jesus Christ. They follow Him anywhere. They do only what they have His explicit permission to do. They treat Him as their master, and obediently submit to him daily in aspects of their life. Christians are not their own. They belong to Jesus Christ. They are His chattel, His property. And He can spend them however He might wish.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Complete Forgiveness
Q: How do you know if forgiveness is completed? When one of our children commits an offense against another, we tell them to, "Say you're sorry." Obviously, that's not a real apology. But by the same token, how do you know if the forgiveness is complete? In anyone, of any age?
A: Forgiveness is complete when you can proceed as if the offense never happened in the first place. Forgiveness is complete when you never, ever bring the matter up again. Complete forgiveness doesn't allow the offended to hold onto bitterness, resentment, anger, etc.
It's as if the sin were a blemish that gets removed completely. Or it's as if the sin were a stain on fabric - that washes out completely. The fabric is restored to the status it had before the "sin" (i.e., stain) was ever committed against it.
The Bible says that when God forgives our sin, He separates it from us "as far as the east is from the west." (Psalm 103:12) It's impossible for the east and the west to ever be together. That's what God does with our sin. He separates us from it completely. And then He does something else with our sin ... He forgets it! Seriously. The Bible tells us that God has selective memory: He can choose what He wants to remember or forget. Isaiah 43:25 gives us the clearest picture.
So you may not be able to selectively remember or not remember something. But if your forgiveness is real and true, there'll be no reason for you to hold onto the memory of the sin that offended you (and which you've forgiven).
A: Forgiveness is complete when you can proceed as if the offense never happened in the first place. Forgiveness is complete when you never, ever bring the matter up again. Complete forgiveness doesn't allow the offended to hold onto bitterness, resentment, anger, etc.
It's as if the sin were a blemish that gets removed completely. Or it's as if the sin were a stain on fabric - that washes out completely. The fabric is restored to the status it had before the "sin" (i.e., stain) was ever committed against it.
The Bible says that when God forgives our sin, He separates it from us "as far as the east is from the west." (Psalm 103:12) It's impossible for the east and the west to ever be together. That's what God does with our sin. He separates us from it completely. And then He does something else with our sin ... He forgets it! Seriously. The Bible tells us that God has selective memory: He can choose what He wants to remember or forget. Isaiah 43:25 gives us the clearest picture.
So you may not be able to selectively remember or not remember something. But if your forgiveness is real and true, there'll be no reason for you to hold onto the memory of the sin that offended you (and which you've forgiven).
Friday, January 14, 2011
Astrology
Q: My girlfriend likes to read her horoscope each day. She even posts it on Facebook. I think I read somewhere though that astrology isn't something Christians should be involved in. But my girlfriend goes to church and everyone who knows her would talk about how serious she is about her faith. Can she really be following her horoscope as a Christian?
A: No she cannot. Astrology falls under the category of the occult. As such, Christ-followers are to have nothing to do with it. Palm reading, Tarot cards, fortune telling, Ouija boards and other forms of entertainment are of the devil (seriously) and are open doors to demons. Christ-followers should have nothing to do with such things. Moreover, the Bible says we aren't even to be entertained by such things. So even though it may be fun to see what my horoscope says today, I'm playing with fire. All of these forms of "advice" are considered sorcery, of the devil and forbidden for Christians. Deuteronomy 18:10-12 says they are "detestable to God."
A: No she cannot. Astrology falls under the category of the occult. As such, Christ-followers are to have nothing to do with it. Palm reading, Tarot cards, fortune telling, Ouija boards and other forms of entertainment are of the devil (seriously) and are open doors to demons. Christ-followers should have nothing to do with such things. Moreover, the Bible says we aren't even to be entertained by such things. So even though it may be fun to see what my horoscope says today, I'm playing with fire. All of these forms of "advice" are considered sorcery, of the devil and forbidden for Christians. Deuteronomy 18:10-12 says they are "detestable to God."
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Biblical Worship?
Q: You answered a question recently about worship styles. But there are worship songs that don’t seem to be really Biblical. Especially in the contemporary genre, it seems that many of the songs are just “feel good” kinds of songs that paint a God that people wish for – but not necessarily a God who really is. What do we do about Christian songs that just aren’t based on God’s truth?
A: We ignore them. The Bible tells us to test everything that we are taught, against God’s Word. In other words, whatever someone tells us, teaches us, etc. needs to be examined in the light of God’s Word to see if it’s true. And songs are no different. We should look at the lyrics to any song we sing or listen to in order to make sure that they are truthful lyrics. Just because something sounds good doesn’t mean that it is good.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Biblical Worship
Q: Is there a Biblical perspective on different styles of worship or different genre of Christian music? If so, can you provide a good example of a song that meets the criteria?
A: Yes, I think there is a Biblical perspective on every style of worship or genre of music that purports to be Christian. The two most important that I can think of are that it should be from the heart and that it should be grounded in God's Truth.
I'm usually okay with just about any sort of worship or Christian music, providing that it is respectful of God (grounded in God's Truth) and that it says something relevant (from the heart or speaking to the heart).
"It Is Well With My Soul" is an old hymn that I believe really meets this criteria. Of the more modern contemporary songs, "You Spread Out the Skies" (By Chris Tomlin) is another that I believe meets the criteria.
There are probably hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of songs that
Christians sing or listen to, or have at one time. I would guess that most of them are appropriate for us today. But watch out for any song that lacks respect and reverence for God, or a song that says anything other than what is true ... as measured by God's own Word.
A: Yes, I think there is a Biblical perspective on every style of worship or genre of music that purports to be Christian. The two most important that I can think of are that it should be from the heart and that it should be grounded in God's Truth.
I'm usually okay with just about any sort of worship or Christian music, providing that it is respectful of God (grounded in God's Truth) and that it says something relevant (from the heart or speaking to the heart).
"It Is Well With My Soul" is an old hymn that I believe really meets this criteria. Of the more modern contemporary songs, "You Spread Out the Skies" (By Chris Tomlin) is another that I believe meets the criteria.
There are probably hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of songs that
Christians sing or listen to, or have at one time. I would guess that most of them are appropriate for us today. But watch out for any song that lacks respect and reverence for God, or a song that says anything other than what is true ... as measured by God's own Word.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
God's Mad @ Haiti?
Q: Right after the earthquake in Haiti, Pat Robertson said it was because God was mad at their sinful ways. A lot of people dismissed Robertson as being a radical. But let's face it, the suffering in Haiti continues even now. Isn't this really the evidence playing itself out? I mean isn't the continued suffering in Haiti really proving that Robertson may have been right - and that God is indeed mad at Haiti?
A: Let's remember that no one knows the Lord's ways. (Ecclesiastes 8:17) I personally am loathe to say it, but it is within the realm of what's possible that God did send the earthquake on Haiti to punish it for its sinful ways. But it is equally possible that God sent the earthquake to shake Haiti up and help it turn from those sinful ways. I'm reminded of many other natural disasters in modern times where the people pulled together and the city was better off after. Shared or common adversity has a way of creating binding unity.
Hard-lined Christians who will arrogantly state that God was mad at Haiti and sent the earthquake to punish that nation would do well to remember that this is not how God has acted in the past. Even in the notorious case of Sodom and Gomorrah, God said He would not destroy the city of Sodom if He could find just ten (10) righteous people. (Genesis 18) God was willing to show mercy on the entire city of wicked people - for the sake of a handful of righteous people.
Fast forward from Sodom to Haiti, and it isn't too hard to imagine that there are probably more than ten (10) righteous people in Haiti before the earthquake. There are probably more than ten (10) righteous people in Haiti now too.
Man cannot understand the ways of God, and we shouldn't waste our time trying. Better that we should invest our time being obedient and loving. The Bible says that we are to treat others as we would like to be treated. It is hard to imagine that Pat Robertson, when he is experiencing tragedy and heartache, would appreciate someone pointing out his sin. I'm reminded of the scenario where Job was rebuked by his friends in his hour of need. They were convinced that his suffering had to be the result of some sin on his part. They were entirely wrong too.
A: Let's remember that no one knows the Lord's ways. (Ecclesiastes 8:17) I personally am loathe to say it, but it is within the realm of what's possible that God did send the earthquake on Haiti to punish it for its sinful ways. But it is equally possible that God sent the earthquake to shake Haiti up and help it turn from those sinful ways. I'm reminded of many other natural disasters in modern times where the people pulled together and the city was better off after. Shared or common adversity has a way of creating binding unity.
Hard-lined Christians who will arrogantly state that God was mad at Haiti and sent the earthquake to punish that nation would do well to remember that this is not how God has acted in the past. Even in the notorious case of Sodom and Gomorrah, God said He would not destroy the city of Sodom if He could find just ten (10) righteous people. (Genesis 18) God was willing to show mercy on the entire city of wicked people - for the sake of a handful of righteous people.
Fast forward from Sodom to Haiti, and it isn't too hard to imagine that there are probably more than ten (10) righteous people in Haiti before the earthquake. There are probably more than ten (10) righteous people in Haiti now too.
Man cannot understand the ways of God, and we shouldn't waste our time trying. Better that we should invest our time being obedient and loving. The Bible says that we are to treat others as we would like to be treated. It is hard to imagine that Pat Robertson, when he is experiencing tragedy and heartache, would appreciate someone pointing out his sin. I'm reminded of the scenario where Job was rebuked by his friends in his hour of need. They were convinced that his suffering had to be the result of some sin on his part. They were entirely wrong too.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Fraudulent Preachers
Q: On your answer yesterday, you don't seem to allow for the possibility that the preacher is a fraud, who downloaded his sermons from the Internet or something. Not every sermon is a "divine Word, imparted to the prophet from the Father" - as you seem to claim.
A: Of course there are sinful pastors preaching in the pulpit. I'm one of them! But don't be deceived about the nature of God's call on a man (or woman) to preach. Speaking for God, as a Biblical prophet or modern-day pastor does, is not a reflection of who the speaker is. Rather it is a reflection of who God is. God calls, ordains, anoints and empowers sinful people through whom He does His work. So the fact that a preacher is sinful doesn't disqualify them. In fact, it may well be one reason that they can speak with credibility.
Downloading sermons from the Internet doesn't make a preacher a fraud either. What I said yesterday is that the preacher should be giving his (or her) audience a "divine Word from the Father." This means that the preacher is walking closely with God, repenting of his or her sin regularly, seeking God's will and making a concerted effort to do things God's way. We, the listeners, must then trust the Holy Spirit to lead that preacher. And we must allow for the possibility that God may provide for that preacher through the Internet, the radio, TV, a good Christian book or any other medium.
Finally, I'm reminded of a Scripture verse, where the Apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians and told them, "The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit." (1 Corinthians 2:14) What does this say in a situation like yours? If all you can see is your preacher's sinfulness, or the flaws in his or her delivery, then it may be that you yourself are lacking in the Spirit.
A: Of course there are sinful pastors preaching in the pulpit. I'm one of them! But don't be deceived about the nature of God's call on a man (or woman) to preach. Speaking for God, as a Biblical prophet or modern-day pastor does, is not a reflection of who the speaker is. Rather it is a reflection of who God is. God calls, ordains, anoints and empowers sinful people through whom He does His work. So the fact that a preacher is sinful doesn't disqualify them. In fact, it may well be one reason that they can speak with credibility.
Downloading sermons from the Internet doesn't make a preacher a fraud either. What I said yesterday is that the preacher should be giving his (or her) audience a "divine Word from the Father." This means that the preacher is walking closely with God, repenting of his or her sin regularly, seeking God's will and making a concerted effort to do things God's way. We, the listeners, must then trust the Holy Spirit to lead that preacher. And we must allow for the possibility that God may provide for that preacher through the Internet, the radio, TV, a good Christian book or any other medium.
Finally, I'm reminded of a Scripture verse, where the Apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians and told them, "The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit." (1 Corinthians 2:14) What does this say in a situation like yours? If all you can see is your preacher's sinfulness, or the flaws in his or her delivery, then it may be that you yourself are lacking in the Spirit.
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Sermon Series
Q: Why do preachers organize their sermons in series with catchy names? It's hard to tell what Scripture they're speaking from because they bounce throughout the Bible, all to keep with some theme. It's as if they're organizing their sermons like a TV series. Is this Biblical?
A: I'm not a preacher who does that, but I believe they do it for one of two possible reasons. First, they think it will be easier for their congregations to stay focused if they can pack the sermons under a common, culturally relevant title. Second, it may help them develop their sermons. Sometimes what a preacher believes he is called to preach just doesn't fit into one or two Sundays.
Your questions about whether sermons in a series are Biblical doesn't really have an answer. It could be Biblical - or it may not be. That is not really the question. Rather ask yourself what you expect when you sit down to hear a sermon. Are you expecting to hear an anointed Word from God Himself? That message is delivered through one of God's chosen messengers. The Bible calls them "prophets," because they are the ones who "speak for God." We call them preachers or pastors in our modern culture. But they're the equivalent of an Old Testament prophet.
So whether the sermon is in a series or stands alone, we should assume that it is an anointed Word directly from God, being delivered to us through His chosen (i.e., called) messenger ... a modern day prophet if you will.
A: I'm not a preacher who does that, but I believe they do it for one of two possible reasons. First, they think it will be easier for their congregations to stay focused if they can pack the sermons under a common, culturally relevant title. Second, it may help them develop their sermons. Sometimes what a preacher believes he is called to preach just doesn't fit into one or two Sundays.
Your questions about whether sermons in a series are Biblical doesn't really have an answer. It could be Biblical - or it may not be. That is not really the question. Rather ask yourself what you expect when you sit down to hear a sermon. Are you expecting to hear an anointed Word from God Himself? That message is delivered through one of God's chosen messengers. The Bible calls them "prophets," because they are the ones who "speak for God." We call them preachers or pastors in our modern culture. But they're the equivalent of an Old Testament prophet.
So whether the sermon is in a series or stands alone, we should assume that it is an anointed Word directly from God, being delivered to us through His chosen (i.e., called) messenger ... a modern day prophet if you will.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Foster Parenting
Q: We're thinking about becoming foster parents. Does the Bible have anything to say about that?
A: No, the Bible doesn't specifically identify the concept of foster parenting or foster care for children. However, Jesus was very, very clear about the priority of children. There are numerous Scripture references in both the Old and New Testament that help us understand that children are near to God's heart. (Matthew 19:14 & Luke 18:16)
Moreover, Scripture is fairly clear, I believe, about showing us that our response to children is a good measure of our overall faithfulness. Said differently, how we treat children is a good reflection of how we regard God. The most compelling Scripture about this is found in Matthew 25:31-46. This is where Jesus described "whatever you do to the least of these" and compared it to what we would do - or not do for Jesus Himself.
Being a foster parent or an adoptive parent is a very noble cause for a Christ-follower. There are more than 500,000 foster children in America today. There are more than 30 million orphans in the world today. In the U.S. alone, there are scores of children that nobody wants. How do you look a child in the eye and tell him or her, "I'm sorry, but nobody wants you. No one is willing to love you."
It is in this context that Jesus' words in Matthew 25:31-46 really shine light on God's truth. I believe what Jesus was essentially saying there is that it is not possible for us as a society to ignore the needs of these children - and at the same time to profess our love for Christ. For like He said, if we don't love and care for them, then we can't possibly love Him.
Sadly, many people are simply ignorant about the facts here. They see people going overseas for adoption and spending tens of thousands of dollars. But they don't realize that is a choice these people make. I live in the state of Texas, for example. At any given time Texas has an inventory of at least 2,000 children that it considers "hard-to-place." They are bi-racial, have physical and/or mental handicaps, are older, are in sibling groups, etc. But if you're willing to consider these children, Texas offers child support until they're 18, free health insurance, free summer camps, help with therapy bills and free tuition at any state university. Adopting these kids might cost a couple hundred dollars in legal fees. That's it. So why don't more people adopt them? I can only guess it's because they're ignorant of the opportunity or they're selfish and would rather pay tens of thousands of dollars to get what they believe to be a perfect white infant.
I can't encourage Christ-followers strongly enough to foster and adopt as many children as you possibly can. I am equally convinced that God rewards such commitment and sacrifice. Remember that if God calls you to a task, He also has a plan to resource you for that task.
A: No, the Bible doesn't specifically identify the concept of foster parenting or foster care for children. However, Jesus was very, very clear about the priority of children. There are numerous Scripture references in both the Old and New Testament that help us understand that children are near to God's heart. (Matthew 19:14 & Luke 18:16)
Moreover, Scripture is fairly clear, I believe, about showing us that our response to children is a good measure of our overall faithfulness. Said differently, how we treat children is a good reflection of how we regard God. The most compelling Scripture about this is found in Matthew 25:31-46. This is where Jesus described "whatever you do to the least of these" and compared it to what we would do - or not do for Jesus Himself.
Being a foster parent or an adoptive parent is a very noble cause for a Christ-follower. There are more than 500,000 foster children in America today. There are more than 30 million orphans in the world today. In the U.S. alone, there are scores of children that nobody wants. How do you look a child in the eye and tell him or her, "I'm sorry, but nobody wants you. No one is willing to love you."
It is in this context that Jesus' words in Matthew 25:31-46 really shine light on God's truth. I believe what Jesus was essentially saying there is that it is not possible for us as a society to ignore the needs of these children - and at the same time to profess our love for Christ. For like He said, if we don't love and care for them, then we can't possibly love Him.
Sadly, many people are simply ignorant about the facts here. They see people going overseas for adoption and spending tens of thousands of dollars. But they don't realize that is a choice these people make. I live in the state of Texas, for example. At any given time Texas has an inventory of at least 2,000 children that it considers "hard-to-place." They are bi-racial, have physical and/or mental handicaps, are older, are in sibling groups, etc. But if you're willing to consider these children, Texas offers child support until they're 18, free health insurance, free summer camps, help with therapy bills and free tuition at any state university. Adopting these kids might cost a couple hundred dollars in legal fees. That's it. So why don't more people adopt them? I can only guess it's because they're ignorant of the opportunity or they're selfish and would rather pay tens of thousands of dollars to get what they believe to be a perfect white infant.
I can't encourage Christ-followers strongly enough to foster and adopt as many children as you possibly can. I am equally convinced that God rewards such commitment and sacrifice. Remember that if God calls you to a task, He also has a plan to resource you for that task.
Friday, January 7, 2011
Religious Paradox
Q: I'm taking a class on philosophy and we're studying the concept of a paradox. Are there any paradoxes in religion that you could point me to? I mean are there any paradoxes that we have to contend with in the course of a Christian life?
A: Yes, I believe there are several. But the most profound paradox of all would be that of the god who is worshipped in each religion. Judaism, Christianity and Islam all three trace their roots to Abraham. Yet each of these three religions (and their various sects) worships a god who is defined very differently by each.
Within sects, like Christianity, for example, there are also strong paradoxes to be contended with. The mainline Protestant religions (i.e., Baptist, Methodist, Presbyterian), Mormonism, Catholicism and Jehovah's Witnesses all worship a god who has Jesus in His definition. Yet each of them worships a different god, because they each see Jesus and God very differently.
The point here is that each of a multitude of religions espouses one true god. And several have dimensions of one true god in common with each other. But they are each worshipping a different definition of god. Someone has to be wrong about who God is. In fact, if there is only one true god, then only one of them could possibly have it right ... and all of the others would be wrong. Still, they each think they have defined God accurately. There is no chance that they are right.
Amidst this paradox is a certain level of ignorance. The Bible defines God as a Trinity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. So any religion, for example, that denies any part of this definition, is worshipping a different God. Many modern Americans don't realize this. So we will see Protestants, for instance, convert to Judaism when they marry a Jew. But the Jews deny that Jesus is who He says He is (i.e., the Messiah, God). So the Jews are worshipping a different God than the Christians ... because they've subtracted something from His definition. Similarly, the Mormons and Catholics worship a different god because they've added something to His definition.
You can see that this is a deep paradox. Frankly, I can think of none deeper than this one.
A: Yes, I believe there are several. But the most profound paradox of all would be that of the god who is worshipped in each religion. Judaism, Christianity and Islam all three trace their roots to Abraham. Yet each of these three religions (and their various sects) worships a god who is defined very differently by each.
Within sects, like Christianity, for example, there are also strong paradoxes to be contended with. The mainline Protestant religions (i.e., Baptist, Methodist, Presbyterian), Mormonism, Catholicism and Jehovah's Witnesses all worship a god who has Jesus in His definition. Yet each of them worships a different god, because they each see Jesus and God very differently.
The point here is that each of a multitude of religions espouses one true god. And several have dimensions of one true god in common with each other. But they are each worshipping a different definition of god. Someone has to be wrong about who God is. In fact, if there is only one true god, then only one of them could possibly have it right ... and all of the others would be wrong. Still, they each think they have defined God accurately. There is no chance that they are right.
Amidst this paradox is a certain level of ignorance. The Bible defines God as a Trinity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. So any religion, for example, that denies any part of this definition, is worshipping a different God. Many modern Americans don't realize this. So we will see Protestants, for instance, convert to Judaism when they marry a Jew. But the Jews deny that Jesus is who He says He is (i.e., the Messiah, God). So the Jews are worshipping a different God than the Christians ... because they've subtracted something from His definition. Similarly, the Mormons and Catholics worship a different god because they've added something to His definition.
You can see that this is a deep paradox. Frankly, I can think of none deeper than this one.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Changing the Face of Christianity
Q: You've endorsed your friend who runs this non-profit, Changing the Face of Christianity. Yet he's a former atheist and hasn't really been a Christian very long. Does he have seminary training? How do you know he's right about the beliefs he's espousing? How do you know he can really succeed in this endeavor?
A: I have prayed with the man and have become convinced that he's responding to (i.e., obeying) God in this matter. I'm not aware that he has any formal theological training. But I don't believe that's required for someone to be used by God to do a great work. Said differently, I don't believe seminary is Biblical. (Yes, I really did just say that!) I've tested what he's said (i.e., "the beliefs he's espousing") against God's Word and find them to be accurate beliefs.
As far as the mission of Changing the Face of Christianity succeeding, that's a broad category. We haven't for example, defined what success would look like. Even if we do define it, I suspect it may not be achievable in one lifetime. Frankly, the face of Christianity won't change until the face of the Christians change. If Brad and his team can get even one more Christian to step up to the plate and actually live for Christ, I'd consider it a worthwhile effort.
A: I have prayed with the man and have become convinced that he's responding to (i.e., obeying) God in this matter. I'm not aware that he has any formal theological training. But I don't believe that's required for someone to be used by God to do a great work. Said differently, I don't believe seminary is Biblical. (Yes, I really did just say that!) I've tested what he's said (i.e., "the beliefs he's espousing") against God's Word and find them to be accurate beliefs.
As far as the mission of Changing the Face of Christianity succeeding, that's a broad category. We haven't for example, defined what success would look like. Even if we do define it, I suspect it may not be achievable in one lifetime. Frankly, the face of Christianity won't change until the face of the Christians change. If Brad and his team can get even one more Christian to step up to the plate and actually live for Christ, I'd consider it a worthwhile effort.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Bragging Sister
Q: It happens every year. My sister, who lives out of state, comes home with her husband and children. We have a big family Christmas at my parents' home. She's the only one who doesn't live nearby, and we all get a grand show when she comes. All she can talk about is herself. It's about what she has, what she does, where she goes, etc. Frankly the rest of the family is nauseated having to listen to her bragging. She never asks about any of us, or wants to hear what's going on in our lives. Instead she expects everyone to fawn over her accomplishments, her possessions, her kids' accomplishments, her husband's latest promotion, etc. After her visit this year, we've decided we need to put our foot down. But the problem is, short of dis-inviting her, how do we avoid this? What can we do that won't hurt her feelings?
A: I'm not sure you've really asked the right question here. Let's look at the facts. Your sister and her family apparently are accomplished, capable people. Yet she is so insecure that she spends all of her time trying to impress you with how capable and accomplished she (her family) is. People get to this level of insecurity when they don't know who they are - or when they don't know how they're loved.
What do you suppose might happen, for example, if you took her by the hand, looked her in the eye and said something like, "Oh Kathy, you don't have to spend all your time talking about your accomplishments. We already know how capable you are and we couldn't be more proud of you. Moreover, you don't have to earn our love by telling us all that you have or everywhere you go. We already love you unconditionally."
You speak as if you need to confront her. But the example I've just given you isn't much of a confrontation. Said differently, I'm not sure you need to hurt her feelings to fix this. You just need to shift the paradigm that everyone operates in for these family holidays. Perhaps you could set up some structured dialogue where everyone gives a "verbal newsletter" about what's been going on in their life. For example, schedule a "family meeting" and give each member of the family an allotted time in which to bring everyone up to date.
When your sister starts to brag, redirect her by saying something like, "Oh Kathy, I know everyone would want to hear this, so let's save it for the family meeting at 3:00 PM. Now come and help me set the table." When you have the family meeting, each "tribe" in the family picks a representative to speak on their behalf. Everyone gathers around to hear the update on careers, kids, vacations, major purchases, milestones, etc. What you'll be doing is creating a structured format for your sister to share in ... thereby teaching her the value of listening as well.
I know this all sounds like a lot. I'm not trying to run your family gatherings. There may be other ways to approach this. But the Bible tells us to love others as we would want to be loved. So put yourself in your sisters shoes and ask yourself how you would like to be corrected if you were acting like she acts. Let your conscience guide your response then.
A: I'm not sure you've really asked the right question here. Let's look at the facts. Your sister and her family apparently are accomplished, capable people. Yet she is so insecure that she spends all of her time trying to impress you with how capable and accomplished she (her family) is. People get to this level of insecurity when they don't know who they are - or when they don't know how they're loved.
What do you suppose might happen, for example, if you took her by the hand, looked her in the eye and said something like, "Oh Kathy, you don't have to spend all your time talking about your accomplishments. We already know how capable you are and we couldn't be more proud of you. Moreover, you don't have to earn our love by telling us all that you have or everywhere you go. We already love you unconditionally."
You speak as if you need to confront her. But the example I've just given you isn't much of a confrontation. Said differently, I'm not sure you need to hurt her feelings to fix this. You just need to shift the paradigm that everyone operates in for these family holidays. Perhaps you could set up some structured dialogue where everyone gives a "verbal newsletter" about what's been going on in their life. For example, schedule a "family meeting" and give each member of the family an allotted time in which to bring everyone up to date.
When your sister starts to brag, redirect her by saying something like, "Oh Kathy, I know everyone would want to hear this, so let's save it for the family meeting at 3:00 PM. Now come and help me set the table." When you have the family meeting, each "tribe" in the family picks a representative to speak on their behalf. Everyone gathers around to hear the update on careers, kids, vacations, major purchases, milestones, etc. What you'll be doing is creating a structured format for your sister to share in ... thereby teaching her the value of listening as well.
I know this all sounds like a lot. I'm not trying to run your family gatherings. There may be other ways to approach this. But the Bible tells us to love others as we would want to be loved. So put yourself in your sisters shoes and ask yourself how you would like to be corrected if you were acting like she acts. Let your conscience guide your response then.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Christian Economy
Q: Are there any Biblical reasons for us to have hope about the U.S. economy? I mean it feels like doom and despair lie ahead of the U.S. as a nation. Is there any other way that Christians should look at it?
A: Yes, I think there are other ways for Christians to look at the U.S. economy. The Bible is chock full of Scripture references to where we find our hope (in God). Additionally, the Bible is loaded with Scripture references that tell us not to fear.
Look at it this way, if you've lived right and been a good steward of your resources, then you're not burdened with credit card debt, a house you cannot afford, or a lifestyle that you cannot afford. An economic downturn might find you needing to make some adjustments in your lifestyle. But it will also find you prepared to weather the storm, with a savings account, for example.
On the other hand, if you've been disobedient with your wealth, greedy, immature and constantly seeking immediate gratification with no thought of the future, the economic downturn will find you without savings and without options. Your back is against the wall and you're not very good at riding out the storm.
The thing is, Jeremiah 29:11 is true for each of God's children, every single Christ-follower. The state of the economy or any other circumstance does not deter Jeremiah 29:11. However, there will still be storms in life. Psalm 23 describes how it should be when we encounter those dark places in life. "Yes, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will not fear ... for God is with me."
Christians should not despair or live in fear. We will walk through that valley numerous times in life. But God is trustworthy and He will not fail or abandon us.
A: Yes, I think there are other ways for Christians to look at the U.S. economy. The Bible is chock full of Scripture references to where we find our hope (in God). Additionally, the Bible is loaded with Scripture references that tell us not to fear.
Look at it this way, if you've lived right and been a good steward of your resources, then you're not burdened with credit card debt, a house you cannot afford, or a lifestyle that you cannot afford. An economic downturn might find you needing to make some adjustments in your lifestyle. But it will also find you prepared to weather the storm, with a savings account, for example.
On the other hand, if you've been disobedient with your wealth, greedy, immature and constantly seeking immediate gratification with no thought of the future, the economic downturn will find you without savings and without options. Your back is against the wall and you're not very good at riding out the storm.
The thing is, Jeremiah 29:11 is true for each of God's children, every single Christ-follower. The state of the economy or any other circumstance does not deter Jeremiah 29:11. However, there will still be storms in life. Psalm 23 describes how it should be when we encounter those dark places in life. "Yes, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will not fear ... for God is with me."
Christians should not despair or live in fear. We will walk through that valley numerous times in life. But God is trustworthy and He will not fail or abandon us.
Monday, January 3, 2011
Bible Accuracy
Q: I know that you base your answers to questions on what the Bible says. But how do we know that the Bible is really accurate all the time? It was written by mere men and it's been translated by so many people over time. It seems really unlikely that the Bible we have today could remain error-free.
A: You're stating some facts, but the facts don't always represent the truth. (Truth is higher than facts or circumstances.) The Bible is considered accurate and totally error-free because God is the author of the Bible. And of course God is not capable of errors. (See Titus 1:2 and Hebrews 6:18) Therefore, no matter what the facts, God's Word (the Bible) is absolute truth. (See Psalm 119:160 and John 14:6 & 17:17) So the original manuscripts that comprise the Bible are considered to be absolutely correct.
There is then, of course, the argument that the multitude of translations that have occurred over the years needs to be taken seriously. However, accepted translations are believed to be led by the Holy Spirit. Said differently, we trust that God has protected the integrity of the Bible as it has been translated for the generations over the years. This is a matter of our faith in God. So when you are looking for God's Truth and considering a different translation, you are should be praying and asking God to lead you to a trustworthy translation.
Alternatively, you can assume that other trustworthy theologians have prayed about the matter of this specific translation and have deemed it to be trustworthy. This is the route that most of us take. When we go into a Christian bookstore to purchase a Bible, we assume that all of the translations available have been vetted by trustworthy Bible scholars and are therefore trustworthy translations that we can purchase with confidence and rely upon.
This latter point may seem a little too informal for some of us. But I believe it is adequate to protect us from a Bible that is anything other than inerrant (i.e., error free). It is equally safe to assume that if an erroneous translation of the Bible did get finished and onto the shelves of bookstores - the trustworthy theologians would sound the alarm in the media and the erroneous translation would be defeated. It's just another case of us trusting God to protect and preserve the integrity of His inerrant Word through the multitude of translations that occur through the generations.
A: You're stating some facts, but the facts don't always represent the truth. (Truth is higher than facts or circumstances.) The Bible is considered accurate and totally error-free because God is the author of the Bible. And of course God is not capable of errors. (See Titus 1:2 and Hebrews 6:18) Therefore, no matter what the facts, God's Word (the Bible) is absolute truth. (See Psalm 119:160 and John 14:6 & 17:17) So the original manuscripts that comprise the Bible are considered to be absolutely correct.
There is then, of course, the argument that the multitude of translations that have occurred over the years needs to be taken seriously. However, accepted translations are believed to be led by the Holy Spirit. Said differently, we trust that God has protected the integrity of the Bible as it has been translated for the generations over the years. This is a matter of our faith in God. So when you are looking for God's Truth and considering a different translation, you are should be praying and asking God to lead you to a trustworthy translation.
Alternatively, you can assume that other trustworthy theologians have prayed about the matter of this specific translation and have deemed it to be trustworthy. This is the route that most of us take. When we go into a Christian bookstore to purchase a Bible, we assume that all of the translations available have been vetted by trustworthy Bible scholars and are therefore trustworthy translations that we can purchase with confidence and rely upon.
This latter point may seem a little too informal for some of us. But I believe it is adequate to protect us from a Bible that is anything other than inerrant (i.e., error free). It is equally safe to assume that if an erroneous translation of the Bible did get finished and onto the shelves of bookstores - the trustworthy theologians would sound the alarm in the media and the erroneous translation would be defeated. It's just another case of us trusting God to protect and preserve the integrity of His inerrant Word through the multitude of translations that occur through the generations.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Lifestyle:Changes
Q: You recently mentioned living "an examined life." What exactly does that mean?
A: It means taking time to reflect on everything we say and do, analyzing them next to God's Word, and God's ways. It means that we're constantly look for virtues and strengths that we can lean into. And it means that we're constantly watching for sins and character flaws that need to be repented of ... and replaced with a virtuous opposite.
Romans 14:23 says that anything that "does not originate and proceed from faith is sin." Think about what that means.
Any action. Any choice. Any belief. Any value that's held. They must all originate from faith ... or they are to be considered as sin. Folks this is very serious indeed. It means that we must take everything to God in prayer. We must submit everything, every single dimension of our lives, to God. And we must then proceed based on His Word and His ways.
I don't have God's permission to do what I want. I never had that permission and I never will. Living an examined life means that I have to look my life and contrast it against God's will and His ways. Finally, I must make corrections to bring my life "into compliance."
Living an examined life requires each of us to sacrifice, looking for the high road in all aspects of how we make choices in life. We may
A: It means taking time to reflect on everything we say and do, analyzing them next to God's Word, and God's ways. It means that we're constantly look for virtues and strengths that we can lean into. And it means that we're constantly watching for sins and character flaws that need to be repented of ... and replaced with a virtuous opposite.
Romans 14:23 says that anything that "does not originate and proceed from faith is sin." Think about what that means.
Any action. Any choice. Any belief. Any value that's held. They must all originate from faith ... or they are to be considered as sin. Folks this is very serious indeed. It means that we must take everything to God in prayer. We must submit everything, every single dimension of our lives, to God. And we must then proceed based on His Word and His ways.
I don't have God's permission to do what I want. I never had that permission and I never will. Living an examined life means that I have to look my life and contrast it against God's will and His ways. Finally, I must make corrections to bring my life "into compliance."
Living an examined life requires each of us to sacrifice, looking for the high road in all aspects of how we make choices in life. We may
Saturday, January 1, 2011
New Year's Advice
Do you have any particular advice for the New Year? I'm not talking about how to make effective resolutions or anything. But is there some realistic coaching you could offer an average Christian for the New Year?
Yes, I do! John Wesley was an English preacher and founder of the Methodist church movement. He is credited with a New Year's Prayer that I have been fond of for years.
"I am no longer my own, but thine. Put me to whatever Thou wilt. Rank me with whomever Thou wilt. Put me to doing; put me to suffering; let me be employed for Thee; or laid aside for Thee; exalted for Thee or brought low for Thee. Let me be full; let me be empty. Let me have all things; let me have nothing. I freely and heartily yield all things to Thy pleasure and disposal. And now O glorious and blessed God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, Thine are mine and I am thine. So be it. And the covenant which we have made on earth, let it be ratified in heaven. Amen"
What does this mean in layman's terms that people today can understand? Try this as your prayer for the New Year:
Dear Lord God,
I am no longer my own - but I belong to You, Lord.
Use me however You want to.
Place me among whomever You want.
Put me to doing or to suffering whatever You want.
Let me be used by You; or laid aside for You.
Let me be successful for You, or live lowly for You.
Let me be full; or let me be empty.
Let me have all things; or let me have nothing.
I freely and heartily yield all things to Your pleasure and disposal, Lord.
(By choice, I want only Your will and pleasure in my life.)
And now, oh glorious and blessed God, my Father, the Son and Holy Spirit - You are mine and I am yours. So be it. And the covenant You and I have made here on earth, let it be ratified in heaven today.
Amen.
Yes, I do! John Wesley was an English preacher and founder of the Methodist church movement. He is credited with a New Year's Prayer that I have been fond of for years.
"I am no longer my own, but thine. Put me to whatever Thou wilt. Rank me with whomever Thou wilt. Put me to doing; put me to suffering; let me be employed for Thee; or laid aside for Thee; exalted for Thee or brought low for Thee. Let me be full; let me be empty. Let me have all things; let me have nothing. I freely and heartily yield all things to Thy pleasure and disposal. And now O glorious and blessed God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, Thine are mine and I am thine. So be it. And the covenant which we have made on earth, let it be ratified in heaven. Amen"
What does this mean in layman's terms that people today can understand? Try this as your prayer for the New Year:
Dear Lord God,
I am no longer my own - but I belong to You, Lord.
Use me however You want to.
Place me among whomever You want.
Put me to doing or to suffering whatever You want.
Let me be used by You; or laid aside for You.
Let me be successful for You, or live lowly for You.
Let me be full; or let me be empty.
Let me have all things; or let me have nothing.
I freely and heartily yield all things to Your pleasure and disposal, Lord.
(By choice, I want only Your will and pleasure in my life.)
And now, oh glorious and blessed God, my Father, the Son and Holy Spirit - You are mine and I am yours. So be it. And the covenant You and I have made here on earth, let it be ratified in heaven today.
Amen.
FORMAT CHANGE
Dear Readers,
I am making a little change to this blog, and decided the New Year is a good place to start. In recent months, I've begun to receive letters questioning the identity of someone who'd written. For example, "I know it was so-and-so who wrote that!"
I don't really think there's value in such dialogue. And when I looked at the situation, I realized there's also not much value in partially identifying the writer and their place of residence. In addition, the volume of questions coming in to me has dropped off again. (It did this once before and I nearly suspended the blog.) I'm not sure why that it is - but I always allow for the possibility that the blog is becoming irrelevant. You, the readers, have to make that determination though.
So starting today, I'll just be publishing questions. Of course you can still write me with your questions, send them to victoriousconqueror@ymail.com and I'll do my best to answer them on blog. But in addition, I also may start inserting some questions myself --- just to keep it interesting.
I've mentioned this before but it is worth mentioning again. I'm a fan of a terrific web site that answers questions for Christians and others seeking Biblical truth and understanding. Visit http://www/gotquestions.org/ and you'll find they've answered literally thousands of questions there. You can browse their web site to see what all they've already got. You can also sign up for their e-mail service, and receive a periodic email with answers to very interesting questions.
Finally, if you read my blog or ask me questions, keep in mind that while I strive to be Biblically accurate --- the answers I publish on this blog are strictly from my own perspective and understanding of Biblical truth. As with anything, you should always test whatever I teach you against God's Word to make sure that it stands up in the face of Biblical truth. (1 Thessalonians 5:21)
Sincerely,
Victorious Conqueror - a man blessed and upheld by God's amazing grace
I am making a little change to this blog, and decided the New Year is a good place to start. In recent months, I've begun to receive letters questioning the identity of someone who'd written. For example, "I know it was so-and-so who wrote that!"
I don't really think there's value in such dialogue. And when I looked at the situation, I realized there's also not much value in partially identifying the writer and their place of residence. In addition, the volume of questions coming in to me has dropped off again. (It did this once before and I nearly suspended the blog.) I'm not sure why that it is - but I always allow for the possibility that the blog is becoming irrelevant. You, the readers, have to make that determination though.
So starting today, I'll just be publishing questions. Of course you can still write me with your questions, send them to victoriousconqueror@ymail.com and I'll do my best to answer them on blog. But in addition, I also may start inserting some questions myself --- just to keep it interesting.
I've mentioned this before but it is worth mentioning again. I'm a fan of a terrific web site that answers questions for Christians and others seeking Biblical truth and understanding. Visit http://www/gotquestions.org/ and you'll find they've answered literally thousands of questions there. You can browse their web site to see what all they've already got. You can also sign up for their e-mail service, and receive a periodic email with answers to very interesting questions.
Finally, if you read my blog or ask me questions, keep in mind that while I strive to be Biblically accurate --- the answers I publish on this blog are strictly from my own perspective and understanding of Biblical truth. As with anything, you should always test whatever I teach you against God's Word to make sure that it stands up in the face of Biblical truth. (1 Thessalonians 5:21)
Sincerely,
Victorious Conqueror - a man blessed and upheld by God's amazing grace
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