“You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8
Jesus was alive, and the disciples were eager. For forty days He had been showing up to show them that the resurrection was really real. Fully convinced, they felt that now would be a good time for Him to set up His throne and take charge of the earth. They posed their suggestion as a question: “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?”(Acts 1:6). Let’s not be too quick to criticize their desire. Jesus had earlier sent them to preach that the kingdom of heaven was near(Matt 10:7), He had promised that they would sit on twelve thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel(Matt 19:28), and hadn’t He even taught them to pray, “Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven”(Matt 6:10)? Who wouldn’t have been excited and anxious?
But Jesus dashed their hopes of right-now royalty with a reply which pointed in a different direction. “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority”(Acts 1:7). Jesus reminds them and us that when He’s coming back is not to be our business, but He does have work for us while we’re waiting. “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth”(Acts 1:8b).
Grab the megaphone and the mega-Bible! It’s time to hit the streets! Perhaps not so fast. A time and place for street-corner shouting possibly exists, but that’s not all Jesus had in mind. He said that we would “be His witnesses”—not that we would simply witness. “Be” is something that you are, not just something that you do. To “be” is not an occasional or sporadic action but a constant existence. And what are we to continually be? His witness. A witness is one who tells what he has seen, what he has experienced, what he knows to be true—not in feeling but in fact. The duty of a witness in court is not to decide the case, but to declare his part. Our privilege and responsibility as a Christ-follower is to continuously through our words, actions, and attitudes be living evidence and be giving evidence of the love and grace of Jesus. He is the One we have seen. He is the One we have experienced. He is the One of whom we are certain.
Where are we to be His witnesses? Everywhere we go. “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth”(Acts 1:8b). Start where you are and share who Jesus is. That’s your Jerusalem. The people you prefer and those you used to put down are your Judea and Samaria. The ends of the earth covers everything else. Across town or across time zones, be His witness.
How are we to do this, for being a witness is a big job, and on our own, we’re not up to the task? Since Jesus knows this is so, when He went up, He sent help down. “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you”(Acts 1:8a). The Divine Comforter, Convicter, Counselor, Encourager, and Guide(Jn 16:5-15) stays by our side giving us strength, speaking the truth, and showing us the way—and what to say. By God’s power, we can share the wonder of Jesus everywhere with go, with everyone we meet.
If you are His, you are His witness. The question isn’t, “Are you a witness?” but, “What kind of witness are you?”
Friday, September 30, 2011
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
The Sequel
“In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach until the day he was taken up to heaven.” Acts 1:1-2
Ever finished a movie or book and wondered what happened next? Some stories simply beg for sequels. Surely Theophilus thought so when he set down the scroll from his friend Luke.
The biggest events in the history of the world had just happened, and Luke had sent him the story: Jesus of Nazareth, the virgin-born/itinerant teacher and preacher who claimed to be God and only did good, had been condemned and crucified—His body then sealed in a tomb of stone. But three days later, as heaven shouted and hell shuddered, Jesus had risen from the grave triumphantly and defiantly—“Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?”(1 Cor. 15:55). His disciples were shocked and excited. They had thought all hope was lost, but on the first Easter evening, Jesus strode past locked doors and spoke peace into their lives(Lk 24:36). A bit later, “He led them out to Bethany…blessed them…left them and was taken up into heaven”(Lk 24:50-51). The disciples went back to Jerusalem and joyfully hung around the temple praising God(Lk 24:52-53, the last verses in Luke).
What happened next?
We don’t know how long Theophilus had to wait for the sequel, but he wasn’t left hanging. Luke followed up his gospel with the book of Acts—a thrilling account of what God did on earth after Jesus was gone from earth. “In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach until the day he was taken up to heaven(Acts 1:1-2), and so the saga continued. The following twenty-eight chapters are packed with adventure, drama, danger, and delight. I must admit that during sermons or seminars too boring to bear (none in recent years, I gladly add), I have been known to read the book of Acts—with occasional glances and smiles up to the speaker, of course, for one wouldn’t want to be discouraging. The accounts of the first disciples, the first church, the first martyrs, and the first missionaries captivate and inspire, and though Acts is full of “firsts,” in its pages we can find ourselves, for we also live in between Christ’s resurrection and His return.
As through the next few weeks we closely consider the people, places, and plots of Acts, keep in mind that though Luke’s book has an ending, God’s story is ongoing. The good news of grace has been passed down to you, and it’s your turn to pick up the pen.
What happened next?
Ever finished a movie or book and wondered what happened next? Some stories simply beg for sequels. Surely Theophilus thought so when he set down the scroll from his friend Luke.
The biggest events in the history of the world had just happened, and Luke had sent him the story: Jesus of Nazareth, the virgin-born/itinerant teacher and preacher who claimed to be God and only did good, had been condemned and crucified—His body then sealed in a tomb of stone. But three days later, as heaven shouted and hell shuddered, Jesus had risen from the grave triumphantly and defiantly—“Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?”(1 Cor. 15:55). His disciples were shocked and excited. They had thought all hope was lost, but on the first Easter evening, Jesus strode past locked doors and spoke peace into their lives(Lk 24:36). A bit later, “He led them out to Bethany…blessed them…left them and was taken up into heaven”(Lk 24:50-51). The disciples went back to Jerusalem and joyfully hung around the temple praising God(Lk 24:52-53, the last verses in Luke).
What happened next?
We don’t know how long Theophilus had to wait for the sequel, but he wasn’t left hanging. Luke followed up his gospel with the book of Acts—a thrilling account of what God did on earth after Jesus was gone from earth. “In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach until the day he was taken up to heaven(Acts 1:1-2), and so the saga continued. The following twenty-eight chapters are packed with adventure, drama, danger, and delight. I must admit that during sermons or seminars too boring to bear (none in recent years, I gladly add), I have been known to read the book of Acts—with occasional glances and smiles up to the speaker, of course, for one wouldn’t want to be discouraging. The accounts of the first disciples, the first church, the first martyrs, and the first missionaries captivate and inspire, and though Acts is full of “firsts,” in its pages we can find ourselves, for we also live in between Christ’s resurrection and His return.
As through the next few weeks we closely consider the people, places, and plots of Acts, keep in mind that though Luke’s book has an ending, God’s story is ongoing. The good news of grace has been passed down to you, and it’s your turn to pick up the pen.
What happened next?
Friday, September 23, 2011
Good Both Ways
“May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip us with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” Hebrews 13:20-21
How do you eat your Snickers? Do you bite into the bar as whole, relishing the dense mixture of smooth, crunchy, and yummy, or do you enjoy the candy layer by layer, savoring each flavor as distinct and delightful? This question has no wrong answer, for either way you eat your treat, it brings enjoyment and nourishment.
That’s how it is with this verse. The ingredients are so good that part of me wants to pull it apart phrase by phrase and spend days digesting its meaning, but read and realized as one flowing thought, the combination of words bring encouragement and delight as we take it in.
“May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip us with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen”(Heb. 13:20-21).
Taken as a whole this verse is a blessing—a prayer for the bestowing of God’s grace and goodness on His people. It is a divinely-directed desire that the God who gave us peace equip us for His purpose and pleasure. The words remind us that we have a powerful and personal God who is excited about being involved in our lives, and, since on our own, we have neither the aptitude nor the attitude to do what God desires, we echo a hearty, “Amen!” at the end. This one sentence of scripture buoys up burdened hearts, adds meaning to mundane tasks, and heightens gratitude for a God who thinks so much of us that He thinks so much of us.
But considered layer by layer this verse is just as delicious—perhaps even more so, for the author of Hebrews can hardly write three words without pausing to pen an explanation or definition which adds depth and understanding. “May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus…” Even before time began, God planned to give us peace through Christ’s death and resurrection. Such power stuns us and brings us to bow before Him as “our Lord Jesus,” and, yet, this risen ruler relates to us not as a cool and distant sovereign, but as an intimate (and the ultimate) guide and caregiver—“our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep.” May this God, “equip you with everything good for doing his will.” One who has gone to such extremes to redeem you and relate to you will surely supply you with the talent, treasure, time, and truth you need to do His desire. “And may He work in us what is pleasing to him.” Lest we start to focus too much on “what we do”, let’s remember that “who we are” matters first, and let us be willing and wanting God to “work in us” to make our hearts like His. “Through Jesus Christ”—without Whom we would be nothing and without Whom the Father could not and would not want us. “To whom be glory for ever and ever”—Does this phrase mean glory be to Jesus Christ or to the Father? How about both, for in perfect unity they live as one—and will for all eternity. “Amen.” So be it. So be it!! I agree. You agree. We agree.
What a super sentence!! I think these verses are best unwrapped and savored both ways—bit by bit and as one big blessing.
And, yes, you have permission to eat two Snickers too!
How do you eat your Snickers? Do you bite into the bar as whole, relishing the dense mixture of smooth, crunchy, and yummy, or do you enjoy the candy layer by layer, savoring each flavor as distinct and delightful? This question has no wrong answer, for either way you eat your treat, it brings enjoyment and nourishment.
That’s how it is with this verse. The ingredients are so good that part of me wants to pull it apart phrase by phrase and spend days digesting its meaning, but read and realized as one flowing thought, the combination of words bring encouragement and delight as we take it in.
“May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip us with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen”(Heb. 13:20-21).
Taken as a whole this verse is a blessing—a prayer for the bestowing of God’s grace and goodness on His people. It is a divinely-directed desire that the God who gave us peace equip us for His purpose and pleasure. The words remind us that we have a powerful and personal God who is excited about being involved in our lives, and, since on our own, we have neither the aptitude nor the attitude to do what God desires, we echo a hearty, “Amen!” at the end. This one sentence of scripture buoys up burdened hearts, adds meaning to mundane tasks, and heightens gratitude for a God who thinks so much of us that He thinks so much of us.
But considered layer by layer this verse is just as delicious—perhaps even more so, for the author of Hebrews can hardly write three words without pausing to pen an explanation or definition which adds depth and understanding. “May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus…” Even before time began, God planned to give us peace through Christ’s death and resurrection. Such power stuns us and brings us to bow before Him as “our Lord Jesus,” and, yet, this risen ruler relates to us not as a cool and distant sovereign, but as an intimate (and the ultimate) guide and caregiver—“our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep.” May this God, “equip you with everything good for doing his will.” One who has gone to such extremes to redeem you and relate to you will surely supply you with the talent, treasure, time, and truth you need to do His desire. “And may He work in us what is pleasing to him.” Lest we start to focus too much on “what we do”, let’s remember that “who we are” matters first, and let us be willing and wanting God to “work in us” to make our hearts like His. “Through Jesus Christ”—without Whom we would be nothing and without Whom the Father could not and would not want us. “To whom be glory for ever and ever”—Does this phrase mean glory be to Jesus Christ or to the Father? How about both, for in perfect unity they live as one—and will for all eternity. “Amen.” So be it. So be it!! I agree. You agree. We agree.
What a super sentence!! I think these verses are best unwrapped and savored both ways—bit by bit and as one big blessing.
And, yes, you have permission to eat two Snickers too!
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Prayer Partners
“Pray for us.” Hebrews 13:18
“Mom, who is this from?” my daughter asked last night as she held out a several-years-old birthday card she had found in a box of treasured stuff. Smiling as I recognized the signature, I said, “That my dear, is from the lady who prayed for you.” When my daughter was an infant, the pediatrician noticed a problem with her hips, and the concern was printed on the church prayer list. Many weeks later, after a specialist declared that all was well, our dear friend, well into her ninth decade of life, told my husband, “I prayed for that baby ever day, asking God to heal her hips and help her walk.” Each time my little girl ran up and hugged this special saint, the lady would say, “This is the one I prayed for.”
“Pray for us”(Heb. 13:18). The guy who wrote Hebrews, and those with him, needed help—help that comes from God, help that comes through prayer. Sincerity and urgency resonate from his simple request. “Pray for us.” No arrogance kept him from asking others to seek and beseech God on his behalf. No time was wasted on what might be thought if he shared a struggle or a need. Generally and specifically, he laid it out there for all to see and hopefully some to do. “Pray for us. I particularly urge you to pray so that I may be restored to you soon”(Heb. 13:18-19).
When you ask for prayer, you’re in good company. Esther asked Mordecai and the Jews of Susa to join her in fasting—giving up food to focus on God—before she faced King Xerxes(Est. 4:15-17). The remnant of captive Judah asked Jeremiah to pray that God would give them guidance(Jer. 42:1-4). Job’s friends sought his prayers for God to withhold judgment(Job 42:7-10). When Peter was chained in Herod’s prison, “the church was earnestly praying to God for him”(Acts 12:5). And the apostle Paul requested prayer that he would be rescued from the unbelievers in Judea(Rom. 15:31).
If example isn’t enough, how about this instruction—“Give us this day our daily bread”? In His primer on prayer, Jesus used plural pronouns to remind us that we are to bring the needs of others, along with our own, to the Father. And we are to do so often—daily.
But do our prayers make a difference? Do we sway the Almighty when we pray? Our weak words lack such strength on their own, but somehow in His sovereignty, God incorporates our petitions into His purpose. The dynamic of our prayers and God’s providence can’t be fully understood on earth, but with divinely promised certainty we can be sure that prayer is effective, for time spent in God’s presence tunes our hearts to His and makes us and those for whom we are praying more willing to receive His reply—of whatever sort it may be.
Pray for those who ask, and ask when you need prayer. By God’s grace and goodness, through the prayers of faithful friends, hearts have been made whole, addictions have been overcome, children have been saved, sickness has been healed, sorrow has been comforted, guidance has been given, joy has been restored, purpose has been renewed, and strength for the day has been granted. All because God’s people prayed.
When someone says, “Pray for me,” remember the words of the prophet Samuel, “As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you” (1 Sam.12:23).
And may you be found on your knees.
“Mom, who is this from?” my daughter asked last night as she held out a several-years-old birthday card she had found in a box of treasured stuff. Smiling as I recognized the signature, I said, “That my dear, is from the lady who prayed for you.” When my daughter was an infant, the pediatrician noticed a problem with her hips, and the concern was printed on the church prayer list. Many weeks later, after a specialist declared that all was well, our dear friend, well into her ninth decade of life, told my husband, “I prayed for that baby ever day, asking God to heal her hips and help her walk.” Each time my little girl ran up and hugged this special saint, the lady would say, “This is the one I prayed for.”
“Pray for us”(Heb. 13:18). The guy who wrote Hebrews, and those with him, needed help—help that comes from God, help that comes through prayer. Sincerity and urgency resonate from his simple request. “Pray for us.” No arrogance kept him from asking others to seek and beseech God on his behalf. No time was wasted on what might be thought if he shared a struggle or a need. Generally and specifically, he laid it out there for all to see and hopefully some to do. “Pray for us. I particularly urge you to pray so that I may be restored to you soon”(Heb. 13:18-19).
When you ask for prayer, you’re in good company. Esther asked Mordecai and the Jews of Susa to join her in fasting—giving up food to focus on God—before she faced King Xerxes(Est. 4:15-17). The remnant of captive Judah asked Jeremiah to pray that God would give them guidance(Jer. 42:1-4). Job’s friends sought his prayers for God to withhold judgment(Job 42:7-10). When Peter was chained in Herod’s prison, “the church was earnestly praying to God for him”(Acts 12:5). And the apostle Paul requested prayer that he would be rescued from the unbelievers in Judea(Rom. 15:31).
If example isn’t enough, how about this instruction—“Give us this day our daily bread”? In His primer on prayer, Jesus used plural pronouns to remind us that we are to bring the needs of others, along with our own, to the Father. And we are to do so often—daily.
But do our prayers make a difference? Do we sway the Almighty when we pray? Our weak words lack such strength on their own, but somehow in His sovereignty, God incorporates our petitions into His purpose. The dynamic of our prayers and God’s providence can’t be fully understood on earth, but with divinely promised certainty we can be sure that prayer is effective, for time spent in God’s presence tunes our hearts to His and makes us and those for whom we are praying more willing to receive His reply—of whatever sort it may be.
Pray for those who ask, and ask when you need prayer. By God’s grace and goodness, through the prayers of faithful friends, hearts have been made whole, addictions have been overcome, children have been saved, sickness has been healed, sorrow has been comforted, guidance has been given, joy has been restored, purpose has been renewed, and strength for the day has been granted. All because God’s people prayed.
When someone says, “Pray for me,” remember the words of the prophet Samuel, “As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you” (1 Sam.12:23).
And may you be found on your knees.
Friday, September 16, 2011
Perpetual Praise
“Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that confess his name.” Hebrews 13:15
I had hoped to start this devotion with a strong spiritual statement, but all I hear in my head is the silly tune, “This is the song that never ends. It just goes on and on, my friend. Somebody started singing it not knowing what it was, and they’ll continue singing it forever just because…This is the song that never ends. It just goes on and on, my friend...etc…etc..etc…” I’m not sure how that song first began, but it truly never ends, for again and again, with ease and and without hesitation, the stanzas repeat and repeat and repeat. (Hey, that reminds me, “Pete and Re-Pete were sitting on a fence. Pete fell off. Who was left??”)
Please don’t stop reading. My lunacy has a point. Though silly songs and lame jokes become irritating when incessantly reiterated, some things should never cease—starting with our praise. “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that confess his name”(Heb. 13:15).
In the old (as in Old Testament) days, sacrifice in the temple was a recurring practice. Each day brought new death—two lambs who would give their lives for God’s children. Since the cross, such sacrifices are no longer needed, but the pattern of perpetually looking to God and lifting Him up has not ended. Praise from our lips and in our hearts is an appropriate offering which we should give not intermittently or sporadically but continually. “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise.”
Our praise should never even pause. With ease and without hesitation, our stanzas of gratitude and delight for God’s presence, His blessings, and His grace should repeat and repeat and repeat. No matter who or what falls off the fence of our lives, our praise should remain. A shell-shocked and sorrowful Job worshiped with the words, “The Lord gives and the Lord takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.” On the run for his life, seeking refuge in a cave, David’s cry for help segued into a chorus of praise and exaltation. “For great is your love, reaching to the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies”(Ps. 57:10). And at about midnight, bloody backs and confining chains couldn’t keep Paul and Silas from praying and singing hymns to God(Acts 16:25).
“Is anyone happy?” Then “let him sing songs of praise”(James 5:13). Is anyone hurting, then let him worship as he weeps, for these “light and momentary trouble are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all”(2 Cor. 4:17). Our salvation is sure. Our future is secured. Jesus has “suffered outside the city gate to make the people holy through his own blood”(Heb. 13:12). And “our sin, not in part but the whole, has been nailed to the cross and we bear it now more. Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord, O my soul!”
If we confess His name, we should continually praise His name. We know what we’re singing, and nothing should stop our song, for He alone is worthy.
Without end, my friend.
I had hoped to start this devotion with a strong spiritual statement, but all I hear in my head is the silly tune, “This is the song that never ends. It just goes on and on, my friend. Somebody started singing it not knowing what it was, and they’ll continue singing it forever just because…This is the song that never ends. It just goes on and on, my friend...etc…etc..etc…” I’m not sure how that song first began, but it truly never ends, for again and again, with ease and and without hesitation, the stanzas repeat and repeat and repeat. (Hey, that reminds me, “Pete and Re-Pete were sitting on a fence. Pete fell off. Who was left??”)
Please don’t stop reading. My lunacy has a point. Though silly songs and lame jokes become irritating when incessantly reiterated, some things should never cease—starting with our praise. “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that confess his name”(Heb. 13:15).
In the old (as in Old Testament) days, sacrifice in the temple was a recurring practice. Each day brought new death—two lambs who would give their lives for God’s children. Since the cross, such sacrifices are no longer needed, but the pattern of perpetually looking to God and lifting Him up has not ended. Praise from our lips and in our hearts is an appropriate offering which we should give not intermittently or sporadically but continually. “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise.”
Our praise should never even pause. With ease and without hesitation, our stanzas of gratitude and delight for God’s presence, His blessings, and His grace should repeat and repeat and repeat. No matter who or what falls off the fence of our lives, our praise should remain. A shell-shocked and sorrowful Job worshiped with the words, “The Lord gives and the Lord takes away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.” On the run for his life, seeking refuge in a cave, David’s cry for help segued into a chorus of praise and exaltation. “For great is your love, reaching to the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies”(Ps. 57:10). And at about midnight, bloody backs and confining chains couldn’t keep Paul and Silas from praying and singing hymns to God(Acts 16:25).
“Is anyone happy?” Then “let him sing songs of praise”(James 5:13). Is anyone hurting, then let him worship as he weeps, for these “light and momentary trouble are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all”(2 Cor. 4:17). Our salvation is sure. Our future is secured. Jesus has “suffered outside the city gate to make the people holy through his own blood”(Heb. 13:12). And “our sin, not in part but the whole, has been nailed to the cross and we bear it now more. Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord, O my soul!”
If we confess His name, we should continually praise His name. We know what we’re singing, and nothing should stop our song, for He alone is worthy.
Without end, my friend.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
The Choice For The Cross
“Let us, then, go to him outside the camp, bearing the disgrace he bore. For here we do not have an enduring city, but we are looking for the city that is to come.” Hebrews 13:13-14
Once to every man and nation,
comes the moment to decide,
in the strife of truth with falsehood,
for the good or evil side.
James Russell Lowell’s poem is eloquent and effective for a patriot, but it’s not entirely accurate for a Christian, for the choice to stand with God or against Him is not a one-time deal but a many-times-a-day decision—a decision which displays our commitment and our motivation.
In Old Testament times, the body of the animal used for the sin sacrifice on the Day of Atonement was burned outside the camp. To be outside the camp or outside a city was considered unacceptable and dishonorable. But, “Jesus also suffered outside the city gate to make the people holy through his own blood”(Heb. 13:12). The image of the cross on a hill outside of town—a shameful and ignoble way to die—shows us that identification with Christ will not bring great glory or admiration from the world. But we should still run to Jesus. “Let us, then, go to him outside the camp, bearing the disgrace he bore. For here we do not have an enduring city, but we are looking for the city that is to come”(Hebrews 13:13-14).
As we live the difference Jesus makes, we shouldn’t be surprised when those around us don’t approve or applaud, for the “message of the cross is foolishness” to those who don’t believe(1 Cor. 1:18). But the cheers of men can’t compare to the delight of God. The extravagance of Christ’s sacrifice and our absolute unworthiness of such grace compel us to stake our claim, again and again, outside the camp at the cross.
Ridicule, criticism, laughter, and labeling might follow, but “here we do not have an enduring city, but we are looking for the city that is to come.” Our understanding that troubles and trials are temporary encourages us to willingly wave the flag of Christ. It helps us focus on tomorrow while we fulfill our purpose today. We are to be completely His—even if it hurts—not just on Sunday or when surrounded by a safe Christian crowd, but the rest of the week too when we’re the only one, or one of only a few, whose participation and priorities are noticeably different because of our devotion to Christ.
When your decisions bring disgrace or disdain, remember the early Christians, who, after being flogged for their outspoken faith in Jesus, “left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name”(Acts 5:41). Be glad God thinks enough of you to let hurt for Him, and know that nothing you give up is worth hanging onto. Though we live in the now, we don’t live for the now. The best is yet to come.
When you must choose between loyalty to Christ and allegiance to the crowd, take the lonely road. Jesus already walked it for us, and we should gratefully follow.
Once to every man and nation,
comes the moment to decide,
in the strife of truth with falsehood,
for the good or evil side.
James Russell Lowell’s poem is eloquent and effective for a patriot, but it’s not entirely accurate for a Christian, for the choice to stand with God or against Him is not a one-time deal but a many-times-a-day decision—a decision which displays our commitment and our motivation.
In Old Testament times, the body of the animal used for the sin sacrifice on the Day of Atonement was burned outside the camp. To be outside the camp or outside a city was considered unacceptable and dishonorable. But, “Jesus also suffered outside the city gate to make the people holy through his own blood”(Heb. 13:12). The image of the cross on a hill outside of town—a shameful and ignoble way to die—shows us that identification with Christ will not bring great glory or admiration from the world. But we should still run to Jesus. “Let us, then, go to him outside the camp, bearing the disgrace he bore. For here we do not have an enduring city, but we are looking for the city that is to come”(Hebrews 13:13-14).
As we live the difference Jesus makes, we shouldn’t be surprised when those around us don’t approve or applaud, for the “message of the cross is foolishness” to those who don’t believe(1 Cor. 1:18). But the cheers of men can’t compare to the delight of God. The extravagance of Christ’s sacrifice and our absolute unworthiness of such grace compel us to stake our claim, again and again, outside the camp at the cross.
Ridicule, criticism, laughter, and labeling might follow, but “here we do not have an enduring city, but we are looking for the city that is to come.” Our understanding that troubles and trials are temporary encourages us to willingly wave the flag of Christ. It helps us focus on tomorrow while we fulfill our purpose today. We are to be completely His—even if it hurts—not just on Sunday or when surrounded by a safe Christian crowd, but the rest of the week too when we’re the only one, or one of only a few, whose participation and priorities are noticeably different because of our devotion to Christ.
When your decisions bring disgrace or disdain, remember the early Christians, who, after being flogged for their outspoken faith in Jesus, “left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name”(Acts 5:41). Be glad God thinks enough of you to let hurt for Him, and know that nothing you give up is worth hanging onto. Though we live in the now, we don’t live for the now. The best is yet to come.
When you must choose between loyalty to Christ and allegiance to the crowd, take the lonely road. Jesus already walked it for us, and we should gratefully follow.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Stronger or Stranger
“Do not be carried away be all kinds of strange teachings.” Hebrews 13:9
Lots of people want to tell you lots of things about how to live your life—not just products you should buy or portfolios you should build, but principles you should believe. Beware, be on your guard, and “do not be carried away by all kinds of strange teachings”(Heb. 13:9).
It’s out there—various claims and commands about what you need to do to be devout. Wear this and don’t wear that. Eat this and don’t eat that. Drink this but don’t drink that. Play this but don’t play that. Go here but don’t go there. Etc…. Such specifics are nothing new. When Hebrews was written, some were saying that even if you had faith in Jesus for salvation, you should still follow the Old Testament Law to really be a good Christian. Though clearly refuted in Scripture, this idea has hung around until today and shows up in all kinds of “strange teachings.”
Be leery of groups and gurus who advocate long lists of rules for uprightness. Often, as Paul stated, “Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence”(Col. 2:22-23). Instead of focusing our hearts and minds on Jesus, rules and regulations can cause us to focus on ourselves and on “how we are doing.” We become fixated on our own rightness instead of being consumed by God’s righteousness. “It is good for our hearts to be strengthened by grace, not by ceremonial foods, which are of no value to those who eat them”(Heb. 13:9). Or don’t eat them.
Several years ago a lady told me she had given up pork as a way to get closer to God. Knowing she watched the sexually-charged show Ally McBeal religiously, I suggested a better route might be to turn off the TV and fry up a pound of bacon, for Jesus said, “What goes into a man’s mouth does not make him ‘unclean,’ but the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man ‘unclean.’ For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, and slander”(Matt. 15:17-19). (I’m not saying you should never watch TV; just suggesting you watch what you watch.)
The high cost of the cross bought our freedom, and the preceding verses of Hebrews 13 give us guidelines about how to live in this delightful liberty. Love each other. Share hospitality. Hurt with the hurting. Stay morally pure. Don’t make money a priority. And remember that Jesus stays the same. He’s the one who reduced the many Old Testament laws into two commands: “Love the Lord your God with all you are and love others unselfishly”(Matt. 22:37-40). When people tell you how to live these out, remember that if what you hear doesn’t line up with what God has said, don’t listen. The litmus test for your activities, actions, and attitudes should be 1 Corinthians 10:31—“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
Adhering to strange teaching doesn’t make you stronger—just stranger. Ask the question, “Does this bring God glory?” and live according to the answer.
Lots of people want to tell you lots of things about how to live your life—not just products you should buy or portfolios you should build, but principles you should believe. Beware, be on your guard, and “do not be carried away by all kinds of strange teachings”(Heb. 13:9).
It’s out there—various claims and commands about what you need to do to be devout. Wear this and don’t wear that. Eat this and don’t eat that. Drink this but don’t drink that. Play this but don’t play that. Go here but don’t go there. Etc…. Such specifics are nothing new. When Hebrews was written, some were saying that even if you had faith in Jesus for salvation, you should still follow the Old Testament Law to really be a good Christian. Though clearly refuted in Scripture, this idea has hung around until today and shows up in all kinds of “strange teachings.”
Be leery of groups and gurus who advocate long lists of rules for uprightness. Often, as Paul stated, “Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence”(Col. 2:22-23). Instead of focusing our hearts and minds on Jesus, rules and regulations can cause us to focus on ourselves and on “how we are doing.” We become fixated on our own rightness instead of being consumed by God’s righteousness. “It is good for our hearts to be strengthened by grace, not by ceremonial foods, which are of no value to those who eat them”(Heb. 13:9). Or don’t eat them.
Several years ago a lady told me she had given up pork as a way to get closer to God. Knowing she watched the sexually-charged show Ally McBeal religiously, I suggested a better route might be to turn off the TV and fry up a pound of bacon, for Jesus said, “What goes into a man’s mouth does not make him ‘unclean,’ but the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man ‘unclean.’ For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, and slander”(Matt. 15:17-19). (I’m not saying you should never watch TV; just suggesting you watch what you watch.)
The high cost of the cross bought our freedom, and the preceding verses of Hebrews 13 give us guidelines about how to live in this delightful liberty. Love each other. Share hospitality. Hurt with the hurting. Stay morally pure. Don’t make money a priority. And remember that Jesus stays the same. He’s the one who reduced the many Old Testament laws into two commands: “Love the Lord your God with all you are and love others unselfishly”(Matt. 22:37-40). When people tell you how to live these out, remember that if what you hear doesn’t line up with what God has said, don’t listen. The litmus test for your activities, actions, and attitudes should be 1 Corinthians 10:31—“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
Adhering to strange teaching doesn’t make you stronger—just stranger. Ask the question, “Does this bring God glory?” and live according to the answer.
Friday, September 9, 2011
No Change Needed
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” Hebrews 13:8
Much can be said for consistency.
No one desires a car that cranks occasionally, deodorant that works sporadically, lights which flicker intermittently, or a God who changes—ever.
We know we don’t stay the same. We’re good one moment and bad the next. Kind one minute and cantankerous the next. Generous, then selfish. Patient, then pushy. Sweet, then sour. Praising, then pouting. Faithful, then faithless. But our God is not like us. He is not fickle, and He does not flip-flop. “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever”(Heb. 13:8).
Don’t let familiarity with that phrase lessen its impact. “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” The eternally-existent God has never had—and will never have—a moment when He is different. “I AM WHO I AM,” God announced to Moses at the burning bush and then further expounded a few months later up a mountain by a rock. “I AM, I AM, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion, and sin”(Ex. 34:6-7).
The statement that God will stay the same follows the author’s instruction for us to reflect on the lives of our leaders (Heb. 13:7). Who has God been to them? How has God provided for their needs? Forgiven their failures? Stayed by their side? “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” God will do the same for you. He will provide, forgive, and stick close, for He will never change.
Such constancy brings us comfort. Moods swing. Skin sags. Circumstances shift. The market fluctuates. Incomes adjust. Kids grow up. Loved ones leave. Families fracture. Friends move far away. And we find ourselves continually adapting, modifying, revising, and then changing it all again. But not once, in the many variations of life, will God diverge from His permanent perfection. His love is unfailing, His grace is unending, and great is His faithfulness.
God was. God is. And God always will be.
The same.
Much can be said for consistency.
No one desires a car that cranks occasionally, deodorant that works sporadically, lights which flicker intermittently, or a God who changes—ever.
We know we don’t stay the same. We’re good one moment and bad the next. Kind one minute and cantankerous the next. Generous, then selfish. Patient, then pushy. Sweet, then sour. Praising, then pouting. Faithful, then faithless. But our God is not like us. He is not fickle, and He does not flip-flop. “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever”(Heb. 13:8).
Don’t let familiarity with that phrase lessen its impact. “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” The eternally-existent God has never had—and will never have—a moment when He is different. “I AM WHO I AM,” God announced to Moses at the burning bush and then further expounded a few months later up a mountain by a rock. “I AM, I AM, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion, and sin”(Ex. 34:6-7).
The statement that God will stay the same follows the author’s instruction for us to reflect on the lives of our leaders (Heb. 13:7). Who has God been to them? How has God provided for their needs? Forgiven their failures? Stayed by their side? “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” God will do the same for you. He will provide, forgive, and stick close, for He will never change.
Such constancy brings us comfort. Moods swing. Skin sags. Circumstances shift. The market fluctuates. Incomes adjust. Kids grow up. Loved ones leave. Families fracture. Friends move far away. And we find ourselves continually adapting, modifying, revising, and then changing it all again. But not once, in the many variations of life, will God diverge from His permanent perfection. His love is unfailing, His grace is unending, and great is His faithfulness.
God was. God is. And God always will be.
The same.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Follow The Leader
“Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.” Hebrews 13:7
Who first told you about Jesus? From whom have you learned a lot about Him along the way? “Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith”(Heb. 13:7). Think about the people who have helped you grow in knowing God. Reflect on how they have lived and how they have handled the happenings of their lives—the trials, the triumphs, and the failures. You’re not looking for perfection but reality—the reality of God’s grace and God’s love. Ministers mess up, pastors make mistakes, and teachers stumble and struggle, but a heart set on seeking God always heads back home.
“Consider the outcome of their way of life.” What have been the results of their trust in God? Have others been encouraged? Instructed? Inspired? Have they themselves had peace in the storms? Joy in the junk? Perseverance through the problems? And excitement about the ordinary? Think about how they have dealt with success, with routine, and with sickness, and reflect on their actions and attitudes.
Then “imitate their faith.” Since they believed God was good even when things were bad, do the same. Since they cried out in confession and repentance when they sinned, do the same. Since they stood for the truth, shared with the needy, and knelt for the hurting, do the same. Live their example, and follow them as they have followed Christ(1 Cor. 11:1).
Thanks, Mom and Dad, Clete and Nelda, Larry and Nancy, Tracy, Bro. Al, Ray S., Ray C., Drew, and many others. I am blessed to have been led by you to love Jesus more, know Him better, and see Him bigger.
Remember those who have helped you love Jesus.
Consider how they have lived.
Copy what they have done.
And if you still can, say thanks.
Who first told you about Jesus? From whom have you learned a lot about Him along the way? “Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith”(Heb. 13:7). Think about the people who have helped you grow in knowing God. Reflect on how they have lived and how they have handled the happenings of their lives—the trials, the triumphs, and the failures. You’re not looking for perfection but reality—the reality of God’s grace and God’s love. Ministers mess up, pastors make mistakes, and teachers stumble and struggle, but a heart set on seeking God always heads back home.
“Consider the outcome of their way of life.” What have been the results of their trust in God? Have others been encouraged? Instructed? Inspired? Have they themselves had peace in the storms? Joy in the junk? Perseverance through the problems? And excitement about the ordinary? Think about how they have dealt with success, with routine, and with sickness, and reflect on their actions and attitudes.
Then “imitate their faith.” Since they believed God was good even when things were bad, do the same. Since they cried out in confession and repentance when they sinned, do the same. Since they stood for the truth, shared with the needy, and knelt for the hurting, do the same. Live their example, and follow them as they have followed Christ(1 Cor. 11:1).
Thanks, Mom and Dad, Clete and Nelda, Larry and Nancy, Tracy, Bro. Al, Ray S., Ray C., Drew, and many others. I am blessed to have been led by you to love Jesus more, know Him better, and see Him bigger.
Remember those who have helped you love Jesus.
Consider how they have lived.
Copy what they have done.
And if you still can, say thanks.
Friday, September 2, 2011
Money Matters
“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have.” Hebrews 13:5
Like a skilled fighter, the writer of Hebrews follows his left jab on morality with a right hook about money. Ouch. But, since our felt-worth is far too often wrapped up in our net-worth, such punches are justified. “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have”(Hebrews 13:5). The issue is not the amount in your account, but your attitude—how you feel about what you have. Both the righteous rich and the pious poor struggle with the subject of cash and income.
Knowing the hold money can have on our hearts, Jesus spoke early and often on the topic. “Both God and gold can’t be your top priority”(Matt. 6:24). “Guard against all kinds of greed. Your life is more than what you make”(Luke 12:15). “Set your focus—and your funds—in heaven. Your heart is in the place you place your treasure”(Luke 12:33-34).
“Keep your lives free from the love of money.” Before you dismiss (or deny) that such could possibly be a problem in your own life, ponder these questions. Do you think more about money or about Jesus? Do you spend more time figuring out what you can get(toys, trips, outfits, etc.) or what you can give? Does money more easily pass through your hands or find a place in your heart? Will you do anything for gain or everything for God’s glory? Is the bottom line your profit or God’s presence? “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you’”(Heb. 13:5).
The best antidote for materialism is contentment. Contentment is not having what you want; it’s wanting what you have. And what you have is a God who never goes away and who always helps you out(Heb. 13:5-6). We should never fret about not having enough, or feel like we need to have more, for we are filled and overflowing with the riches of God’s kindness(Rom. 2:4), the riches of His glory(Rom. 9:23), the riches of His wisdom and knowledge(Rom. 11:3), the riches of His grace(Eph. 1:7), the riches of His glorious inheritance(Eph. 1:18), and the riches of His mercy(Eph. 2:4). Today’s temporary currency can’t begin to compare to the wealth of eternity, so whatever bank balance God brings your way, share generously, enjoy graciously, and hold on loosely.
Money matters.
Let it be something you live with—not something you live for.
Like a skilled fighter, the writer of Hebrews follows his left jab on morality with a right hook about money. Ouch. But, since our felt-worth is far too often wrapped up in our net-worth, such punches are justified. “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have”(Hebrews 13:5). The issue is not the amount in your account, but your attitude—how you feel about what you have. Both the righteous rich and the pious poor struggle with the subject of cash and income.
Knowing the hold money can have on our hearts, Jesus spoke early and often on the topic. “Both God and gold can’t be your top priority”(Matt. 6:24). “Guard against all kinds of greed. Your life is more than what you make”(Luke 12:15). “Set your focus—and your funds—in heaven. Your heart is in the place you place your treasure”(Luke 12:33-34).
“Keep your lives free from the love of money.” Before you dismiss (or deny) that such could possibly be a problem in your own life, ponder these questions. Do you think more about money or about Jesus? Do you spend more time figuring out what you can get(toys, trips, outfits, etc.) or what you can give? Does money more easily pass through your hands or find a place in your heart? Will you do anything for gain or everything for God’s glory? Is the bottom line your profit or God’s presence? “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you’”(Heb. 13:5).
The best antidote for materialism is contentment. Contentment is not having what you want; it’s wanting what you have. And what you have is a God who never goes away and who always helps you out(Heb. 13:5-6). We should never fret about not having enough, or feel like we need to have more, for we are filled and overflowing with the riches of God’s kindness(Rom. 2:4), the riches of His glory(Rom. 9:23), the riches of His wisdom and knowledge(Rom. 11:3), the riches of His grace(Eph. 1:7), the riches of His glorious inheritance(Eph. 1:18), and the riches of His mercy(Eph. 2:4). Today’s temporary currency can’t begin to compare to the wealth of eternity, so whatever bank balance God brings your way, share generously, enjoy graciously, and hold on loosely.
Money matters.
Let it be something you live with—not something you live for.
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