Dead to the World.

     But may it never be that I would boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.
                                                             Galatians 6:14 NASB

     The cross of Christ is a barrier between the believer and the world. By it, the disciple has died to this world; he has forsaken it for the kingdom of God. And by the cross, this world has lost its attraction for the child of God. His mind is set upon heavenly things, and his life is hidden with Christ in God (Col 3:1-3).
     In scripture we are warned that to have friendship with the world is to be an enemy of God (James 4:4). Those who love the world cannot love God (1 John 2:15-17). Even though we see such plain warnings in the world of God, we often tend to overlook them. We speak of "worldly" Christians, but the plain teaching of scripture is that we as Christians are to come out of the world and be separate from it. In reality there is no such thing as a worldly Christian, for the Christian is not of this world according to Jesus Christ (John 15:19, 17:14-16).
      Once again, the answer is found in the cross of Christ. This is the means by which we die to the world and all of its attractions. The Apostle Paul states that He is "Crucified with Christ" (Gal 2:20). Dead men have no plans or agendas. A man on the cross could do nothing. His life was over. He had no more purpose in this world but to die. Likewise, as we come to the cross in total surrender to the claims and Lordship of Jesus Christ, we lay down absolutely everything. all of our hopes and dreams, plans and purposes, all we hold dear, we forsake it all, and pick up the cross by which we must die (Mark 9:34-34).
     This is the standard for all who profess to follow Christ,
     
          Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 
                                                            Galatians 5:24 NASB

"My Kingdom Is Not Of This World."

     In John's account of the trial of Jesus, we see a profound statement, that has implications for us today as followers of Christ. Jesus makes this statement to Pilate,

     "My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants would be fighting, that I might not be delivered up to the Jews; but as it is, My kingdom is not of this realm." John 18:36 NASB

     There are several things that we can draw from this passage concerning the kingdom of God, and how we as followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, are to live as subjects of this kingdom.

 1. There are two kingdoms, and only two. The kingdom of this world, made up of kings and kingdoms, politicians and parties, and the kingdom of God, where Jesus Christ reigns supreme.

 2. In the kingdom of God, His servants do not fight. While nations may war against nation, and politicians war against politicians to gain control of human government, Christ's servants do not fight.

 3. Christ's kingdom is not of this realm. The world has its ways, based upon selfish ambition, and physical force. The kingdom of God is a spiritual kingdom, where Christ rules in the hearts and lives of His faithful followers. The power of this kingdom is not a physical power, but the very power of God poured out as His subjects cry out to Him by faith. His followers affect this world only as they seek first His kingdom (Matt 6:33). A true Christian will be motivated by love rather than selfishness. This stands in stark opposition to the ways of the world.

     As Christians, we live in this world, but are not of this world; we are strangers and aliens here (Heb 11:13). As members of the heavenly kingdom, we strive toward a different purpose, and wage a different warfare than that of this world (2 Cor 10:3-4).  As soldiers in the heavenly army, we do not get entangled in the affairs of this world (2 Tim 2:4). This should affect us in every area of our lives as we live in this world as ambassadors of another kingdom! We do not get involved in the affairs of the world; in its politics and its conflicts. We represent Jesus Christ, as His ambassadors. Our purpose is to seek first His kingdom and righteousness, and to urge men to be reconciled to God through Christ (2 Cor 5:20). 
     As Christians, we are to be in subjection to human governments where it does not conflict with the word of God (Romans 13:1-2; Acts 4:19-20). We are to give honor to whom honor is due, pay our tribute and taxes, and render unto Caesar that which is his (Romans 13:7; Matt 22:17-21). We are commanded in scripture to pray for those in authority so that it would go well for us, and also so that they may be saved (2 Tim 2:1-4). 
    We can do far more for the cause of Christ if we let the world take care of the world, while we make Christ's kingdom the focus of our lives. If we would faithfully do this rather than immersing ourselves in politics and social activism, we would actually see souls saved, lives transformed, and God's kingdom advanced.
     We have tried fixing the world, the world's way, but it seems to have only gotten worse. Isn't it time to try it God's way?

Tattoos, Yoga Pants, and the Cultural Relevance of the Modern Church.

     Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.
     Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid.
     Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
     Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
                                                           Matthew 5: 13-16 KJV

     Jesus calls us to stand out, to be different. As Christians, we are called to "come out from among them and be separate" (2 Cor 6:17), and to noncomformity to the ways of this world (Romans 12:2).
     Could it be that in our rush to be culturally relevant, to engage the society around us, we have lost our saltiness? Has the professing Church become so much like the world, that it is hard to tell them apart? Has the fog of lukewarm compromise set in and hidden the city on a hill? Have we as the professing body of Christ, in our concern not to upset others; in our desire to be inclusive, actually put a basket over the candle?
     In our arguments and debates over liberty and freedom in Christ, let us ever be mindful of the fact that as Christians, we are Christ's representatives upon this earth. The world should not be able to look at us and see a reflection of itself, it should see us as radically different. After all, if we have been translated out of the kingdom of darkness, and placed within the kingdom of the Son of God, shouldn't that change how we live and appear before others (Col 1:13)?

Broken and Contrite.

     For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.  
                                                    Isaiah 57:15 KJV

     We read in this verse that the eternal, holy, God desires to dwell with the humble and contrite. His desire is to revive the spirit of those who are lowly and broken in spirit. Indeed, we see that God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6).
     This is where the problem lies; our pride. It is our pride, our exalting ourselves above the reign of God within our hearts, that shuts out the flow of His presence and grace within our lives. Pride is the exact opposite of humility. God resists the proud. The picture is that of an army standing in battle formation against the proud individual. This is not where you or I want to be.
     In David's prayer of repentance, we see that the sacrifices acceptable to God are a broken and contrite heart (Psalm 51:17). You see, we must be humbled if we are to receive grace. Jesus said we must receive the kingdom of God as a little child if we are to enter it (Mark 10:15). He is speaking of humility, becoming as nothing in our own eyes, and in the eyes of the world.   
     To be contrite is to be crushed, broken, and ground into dust. It means that we are sorrowful, and grieved in our hearts because our sin has grieved and offended God. Contrition is not feeling sorry for ourselves, feeling sorrow because we did something bad, feeling sorrow over being caught in our sin, or sorrow at the thought of sins consequences. No, godly sorrow is the sorrow that comes from a heart that is crushed because we have sinned against God (2 Cor 7:9-11). David said "Against thee, thee only have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight" (Psalm 51:4 KJV). 
     Only when one has been broken in this way, can one truly repent. An individual who has felt the deep sorrow over sin, how odious it is to God, how it has pained the heart of God, will leave it. Such a one is done with sin, not because sin has consequences, but because God hates sin. This individual will live his or her life careful to please God in all things. They fear sin most of all because they do not wish to grieve God.
     Oh that We would experience a mighty move of God in this day! That we would feel the deep conviction of sin that would break us and grind us to powder as wheat is ground into flour. The mighty convicting power of the Holy Spirit, that would bring us to our knees in humility and repentance. We so desperately need a move of God in our generation, a move that would revive and refresh us; a move that would bring us back to the heart of God; a move that would bring His presence back into our lives and assemblies once again. Oh that we could be humble and contrite of spirit, so that God would dwell with us once again. 

Dead to this World.

     But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. (Gal 6:14 KJV).

     There are many people who believe that we can fix this world. In fact, many Christians are of the opinion that we can make this world a better place through the power of the gospel. In a sense I can agree with this sentiment. It is true that as people are saved, and their lives changed, they begin to treat those around them differently. They are now honest, compassionate, and loving. They exhibit the fruit of the Spirit with those they encounter on a daily basis (Gal 5:22-23). In that respect you could say that they world has been made better, one soul at a time.
     But the reality is that this world is exceeding wicked. It was wicked in the days of Noah (Gen 6:5), and will be just as wicked at the Lord's return (Matt 24:12, 37). The bible tells us that there is a spirit at work in the sons of disobedience (Eph 2:2-3). Mankind spends his days fulfilling the lusts of his flesh and mind. That is why we see so much wickedness in this world today. There is a mystery of lawlessness at work in this world, and things will only grow worse (2 Thess 2:7). We are warned that perilous times will come, where mankind plunges deeper and deeper into sin and selfishness, even turning his ears away from the truth (2 Tim 3:1-5, 4:3-4). Sadly, this world cannot be fixed. All attempts to fix it through political power, legislating morality, social reforms, and by any other natural means, will only end in failure. 
     Instead of a better world someday, we read that this world will in fact be destroyed by God. John tells us that the world with all of its lusts is passing away (1 John 2:17). Peter writes this concerning the destruction of the world,

     But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up (2 Peter 3:10 KJV).

     We read in Revelation 21:1 KJV,

     And I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.

    God calls to us to come out from among them and be separate (2 Cor 7:17) We are to come out of this wicked world system so that we are not partakers of its sins and its judgment (Rev 18:4). This is what the gospel does for those who believe it! Jesus came to redeem us from this present evil age (Gal 1:4). In the above verse, Paul speaks of the cross of Christ as a barrier between him and the world. Through the cross, he has died to the world; turned his back on it with all of its evil ways. Through the cross, the world has lost its attraction, it no longer holds its power over the one who by faith has reckoned himself "crucified with Christ" (Gal 2:20). 
     Once again, this present world will not be fixed. Our remedy is to come out of it, forsaking its ways. Paul says, "Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God" (Romans 12:2 KJV). John tells us that to love this world is to not love God. What is this world that we are not to love? We are told that it consists of the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the boastful pride of life (1 John 2:15-16). When we live for the temporal things of this life, we have become guilty of loving this world! When we make our choices based upon what looks good to our eyes, what feels good, what give us pleasure, what makes us happy, we are living for the lust of the flesh and eyes. When we spend our days bettering ourselves, impressing our friends and neighbors; when we are consumed with power and the opinions of men, we are guilty of pride. This is the force that drives this world. People are consumed by fashions, impressing others with clothing and appearance; or by job performance; climbing the corporate ladder. Pride drives us to do many such things, even subtle things that we would think were benign, yet if tainted with pride, deadly to our souls. Like Paul, our only glory should be in the cross of Christ and the "life through death" that it brings.
     You see, the individual who has renounced this world with its prideful ways, has now been set free from this rat race. The person crucified with Christ is no longer consumed by the temporal things of this life. Pride and fleshly lusts no longer hold control over this individual, who by the grace of God is now led by a higher principle than lust. It is now Christ living through the believer. Love is the motivation behind the action. Those things that cannot be done in love, and for the glory of God are not done. The crucified believer understands that this world is passing away, and looks for a new heaven and a new earth where righteousness dwells. They are careful in their conduct, being diligent to be found in peace without spot or blemish at the return of Christ (2 Peter 2:11-14). They are consumed by Christ, and not by the things this world offers; its entertainments, pleasures, and so forth.
     We cannot fix this world. Our only option is to renounce its ways, to come out of it, to die to ourselves, so that we may truly live. What we are called to do, is to bring others with us; to present the gospel to them, so that others may also flee from the wrath to come, experience this crucified life, and be set free.

Ten Shekels and a Shirt (High Quality)

This sermon confronts the humanism that has crept into our modern gospel presentation. Are we guilty of using God as a means to an end? Very convicting, please listen!


Ten Shekels and a Shirt (High Quality)

Are You Anchored To This Life?

     For we know that if the earthly tent which is our house is torn down, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For indeed in this house we groan, longing to be clothed with our dwelling from heaven.
                                                    2 Corinthians 5:1-2 NASB

     We as Christians are supposed to be strangers and aliens upon this earth ( Hebrews 11:13-16; 1 Peter 1:1). Following the example of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, we are called to live in this world as in a foreign land, looking with eyes of faith to the promise of our heavenly home (Hebrews 11:8-10). This is the reality; That which is natural (What we see) is temporal, that which is spiritual (unseen) is eternal (2 Cor 4:18).
     Can we relate to this? Do we in fact groan in this life of ours? Are we longing to be home? Are we indeed travelling this life empty handed, not weighed down with the cares and troubles of this life, not burdened by the pursuit of material things (Matt 13:22), but instead living with a singleness of purpose for the glory of God, as His ambassadors upon this earth?
     Jesus warns us against laying up treasures in this life. Our possessions will steal our hearts (Matt 6:19-21). Yet we see so many professed believers living in abundance, accumulating temporal things, focused on the here and now. They seem to be finding their happiness in the things that they own and the activities they enjoy. The hunger for God is gone, the longing for their real home has faded. Sadly, their possessions will anchor them to this earth! They have no treasure being laid up in heaven. They have over the course of time, transferred their citizenship to the kingdom of this world.
   

     

Equipping for Service.

     And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fulness of Christ.
                                                       Ephesians 4:11-13 NASB

     We see here that the purpose of the ministry gifts to the church (apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor, and teacher), is to equip the saints for service! It was never intended for the pastor to do all the work while the congregation sits and soaks it all in. Evangelists are called and gifted by God to win the lost in great numbers, yet each and everyone of us as born again Christians are called to "Go into all the world" as well. We all have a sphere of influence where God has placed us. We have families, friends, co workers, and neighbors, who all have the great need to be reconciled to God through Jesus Christ. We have the responsibility to reach out to them. Sadly, it seems that many sit idly by, either through ignorance, or fear, expecting the pastor to win the lost. We might muster up some courage, and invite a friend to an evangelistic service, but it is not just the evangelists job either.
     We need to do things according to God's word. Our Churches should be training grounds where people hear of missions and evangelizing. The church should be a place where people catch some zeal to reach the lost, a place where they actually are brought to a place where they can hear the call of God on their lives. The church should be a place where the presence and power of the Holy Spirit is active, where people are filled and sent out. It was never meant to be a place where we sit within our four walls waiting for the lost to come and find us. Yet that is what far too many of us expect. 
     You can read the stories of missionaries from the past, how they were burdened and received their calling as children; how they were trained in the home and in the church, and when they grew up they fulfilled the call of God on their lives and poured themselves out in a foreign field. History is filled with such stories. What has happened? We now have children growing up entertained in childrens church, youth groups focusing on pizza parties and lock-ins, and adults sitting Sunday after Sunday in their same comfortable pews.
     We have adopted the mindset that the church is little more than a hospital for sinners. We believe that we must spend our time patching people up, taking care of their faults and sins. True, we must have compassion, we are to encourage and do what we can to help the weak, but ultimately we are called to grow up into the fulness of Christ, to be mature, capable of hearing and answering the call of God on our lives. Our great need is to be equipped for the work of service; to be made ready to go wherever God leads us to go. Their is a lost and dying world out there, and they will not come to us, we are to go to them.
     

Grieving the Spirit.

    And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption
     Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice.
     And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
                                               Ephesians 4:30-32 KJV

     Many Christians find themselves in a rut. Their lives seem dry and empty. Many struggle to pray; it seems the heavens are like brass, and no prayer can get through. For many, church has become a mere routine. Worship has lost the life that it once had. Instead of sensing the nearness of the presence of God, He now seems distant, and silent. What has happened? The Christian life that was once vibrant is now strangely stagnant.
     There are many Christians who have allowed bitterness and anger to slip into their lives. Something has caused an offense, and instead of gracefully letting it go, it has been allowed to fester deep within the heart. Others have fallen into the habit of gossip and slander. It seems so harmless to talk about what is happening in the life of someone else. What happens when we gossip and backbite; when we become bitter and unforgiving, is that we grieve the Holy Spirit. We have ceased to walk in love, the very thing the Holy Spirit desires to form in us.
     To grieve the Spirit is to cause Him deep sorrow and pain. We are no longer keeping in step with the Spirit's leading, but are in opposition to the unity He is striving for among brethren. We are walking in the flesh! We block the flow of the Spirit's presence and power by our sin. This is why Jesus tells us to first go and be reconciled to our brother (Matt 5:23-24). This is why Jesus tells us to forgive, if we would be forgiven (Matt 6:14-15). Bitterness will shut out our prayers (Mark 11:25-26). We often take our Christian life for granted. We do not always notice the coolness slipping into our spiritual lives. We do not always sense the "silence" of the Spirit.
     If we would have Him back in real presence and power, we must repent! We must go back and find where we have been angry, where we have harbored bitterness. We must search it out and be reconciled to those we have offended, and forgive those who have offended us. We must let it go! Why not be wronged, as Paul states (1 Cor 6:7)? We must look at the gossip and slander that we have partaken of, and if necessary, go and undo the damage that we have caused, to the best of our ability. These are hard words, but unless we are willing to do what we can to make things right, we have not really repented.
     We are called to walk worthy of the call of God in our lives. This is to be done in humility, meekness, and patience. We are to put up with one another in love, striving to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:1-3). As Christians we are to work hard, with much patience, and much grace, to walk in true unity. This means that we must be kind, we must be humble, we must forgive, we must love! This is what the Holy Spirit is accomplishing in the body as we cooperate with Him. If we would desire His presence among us, and His power at work in and through us, we must walk in love!

Ring that bell

     I listened to this powerful message this morning, and it brought tears to my eyes. Listen to it, and let God speak to your heart. It is so easy to get caught up in our lives and lose sight of what God has really called us to. Christianity is so much more than going to church once or twice a week, and having our bible reading plans and such. These things are good and have their purpose, but there is something lacking in so many of our lives. I believe it is a consuming passion for the souls of our fellow man. How much would we endure for Christ? How far are we willing to go to see the world around us reached with the good news of new life in Christ? Listen to this sermon and be blessed!  Ring that bell

What Motivates You?

     Two individuals doing the same "good work." One is motivated by a desire to please God. The other person is motivated by some other reason. So, are both individuals pleasing to God? Is He merely pleased because a good thing was done, or are our motives important? Read the following excerpt and then examine what motivates you to do the things that you do!

     Why do non-Christians restrain themselves from committing certain sins? It is because they fear adverse consequences. This principle has been proven repeatedly throughout human history during times when the usual moral restraints, such as governmental law or public opinion, have been removed. When brutality becomes acceptable, brutality prevails. The piles of human skulls in Cambodian killing fields and crumbling incinerators of Nazi concentration camps stand as mute testimony to the true nature of unregenerate human nature. What happens when murder is legalized, when the law of the State or public opinion says it’s OK to exterminate Jews or rip the unborn to pieces in their mothers’ wombs? No one has to speculate on the answer to that question. How many professing Christians are motivated, in their limited morality and holiness, not by love for God and regeneration by the Holy Spirit, but by ever-changing public sentiment, the continually-revised law of the land, or peer-pressure of their fellow church members? Only God knows for certain. But through honest self-examination, each one of us can determine what truly motivates us. If every professing Christian would do that, many would be shocked to discover that all their goodness is really wickedness, motivated by nothing higher than self-interest. Is it really possible to do good things, yet be motivated by pure selfishness? Absolutely. As I’ve already pointed out, most of the “virtuous” deeds done by non-Christians spring from selfish motivations. Consider the words of Paul in this regard: If I give all my possessions to feed the poor, and if I deliver my body to be burned, but do not have love, it profits me nothing (1 Cor. 13:3).

Servant, David (2013-03-05). The Great Gospel Deception (Kindle Locations 436-448). Ethnos Press. Kindle Edition. 

     There are many professing Christians who have "good morals." They do certain good things and have a "form of godliness." They avoid certain sins and behaviors that they deem as wrong. Sadly, many individuals are only motivated by selfish reasons. They fear getting caught in a scandalous situation. Others are "legalists," they do what they do out of an obligation; they fear the wrath of God, and are merely avoiding punishment. Others, like the Pharisees, are motivated by the desire to impress others with their good deeds and morals. Others, would do certain things if they thought they could get away with it. Obviously these kinds of individuals cannot be pleasing to God with their shallow, selfish motives. The individual who lives to please God is the individual who is pleasing to God. Such an individual is moved by the desire to honor God, and to bring glory to Him. The true Christian is one who acts out of love towards God and his fellow man. This according to the scriptures is the fulfilling of the law. Paul states that the only thing that counts in Christ Jesus, is faith working by love (Gal 5:6). 
     What motivates you to do the things you do?
     

It Is Time To Seek The Lord.

Sow with a view to righteousness,

reap in accordance to kindness;

break up your fallow ground,

for it is time to seek the Lord

until He comes to rain 

righteousness on you.

Hosea 10:12 NASB

     

     Much like the "days of Elijah," we see a nation wavering between two opinions (1 Kings 18:21). The real tragedy in all of this is the fact that there is a professing element of Christianity that holds to a form of godliness, but denies its power (2 Tim 3:5). Many have allowed the soft ground of their hearts to grow hard. Instead of bearing the fruit of righteousness, thorns and thistles grow instead, on land that is in danger of being cursed (Hebrews 6:7-8).

     If we would enjoy the presence of God in our midst once again; if we would experience His refreshing; if we would walk in the power of the Holy Ghost as in former times, we must seek the Lord in all earnestness. As we read in Jeremiah, "And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart" (Jeremiah 29:13). To break up the fallow ground is to repent. It is to get out the sin and rebellion, and to turn to God in brokenness and humility. Many people do not like this. They would rather not deal with their sin in this way. It hurts to dig deep within our inner selves; to tear the sin out by the roots; but repentance must be deep if we would truly seek the Lord, and find Him. I'm afraid that while many "seek" the Lord, very few actually find Him. They are not really sincere enough to do what it takes (deep repentance/humility) to persevere and find Him. 

     In 2 Chronicles 7:14, we have the promise that if we who are called by God's name (Christians), would humble ourselves and pray, seek God's face, and turn from our wicked ways, then God would hear us from heaven, forgive our sin, and heal our land. You see, it begins with us. The saying is true, that if we desire revival, it must begin with us. If we would see the fruit of righteousness springing up in our lives, in our churches, and in this land, we must begin to earnestly seek the Lord one more time. We cannot afford to be half hearted, we cannot afford to be insincere in repentance, we cannot afford to quickly give up before the Lord comes back to His temple in all of His power and glory once again. 

     Jesus says to us, Behold I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him, and will dine with him, and he with Me (Rev 3:20 NASB). These words were spoken by the Savior to the Church at Laodicea; a church that was compromised, worldly, and self sufficient, much like so many today. Yet, the invitation is still offered. Christ stands on the outside desiring to come in, if we will but let Him.

Following Christ.

      For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few that find it.
                                            Matthew 7:14 NASB

     There is a wonderful old Anabaptist hymn, that as I read it, the scriptures seemed to be opened up to me in a fresh way.

He who would follow Christ

 

Who now will follow Christ in life must scorn the world's insult and strife, and bear the cross each day. For this alone leads to the throne; Christ is the only way.

Christ's servants follow Him to death, and give their body, life, and breath on cross and rack and pyre. As gold is tried and purified they stand the test of fire.

Renouncing all they choose the cross, and claiming it, count all as loss, e'en home and child and wife. Forsaking gain, forgetting pain, they enter into life

     We have this idea that all we need to do is to believe in Christ at some point in our lives, and we are good. Just ask Jesus into your heart, and you are saved. Sadly, I fear, there are countless thousands of modern evangelical "Christians" who have no concept of what it means to believe in Christ; to take up our cross and follow Him (Mark 8:34). That however, is the call of Christ; "Follow Me." Repeating a prayer, going forward at an altar, saying we believe in Jesus, are all actions that in and of themselves can give us no assurance of heaven. It starts at the cross, where we confess and repent, and by faith "enter the small gate." However we must follow Christ. Read what these persecuted Christians did. They scorned the world and all of its insults, as they followed Christ. They braved torture and death as they followed Him. They renounced all, and like the Apostle Paul, they counted all as loss for the sake of knowing Christ (Phil 3:8).
     You see, many of us stop at the new birth, believing that is the end of the matter as far as our salvation is concerned. We do not go on to follow Christ as He leads us through the narrow way to life. We are far behind Him as He calls us to renounce this world, as He leads us away from materialism, and as He calls us to humility. We are far behind Him as He call us to love our enemies and to turn the other cheek. We know little of laying up treasure in heaven, and seeking first His kingdom. He calls us to follow Him and become fishers of men, but somehow we do not follow. We do not follow Him as He leads us through suffering and tribulation; but all who wish to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution (2 Tim 3:12), and it is through much tribulation that we enter into life (Acts 14:22).
     It is not enough to merely believe in Him. That is nothing more than a mere head knowledge; a mental assent to some historical, biblical facts about Jesus. To really believe in Him is to follow Him, as this hymn says, Christ is the only way.


He who would follow Christ                  
Jorg Wagner, 1527, in the Ausbund, 1564     Bartholomeus Monoetius 1565
Wer Christo jetzt will folgen nach
Tr. David Augsburger, 1962

The Mennonite Hymnal
Copyright 1969 Herald Press, Scottdale, Pa
p344




    
      

The Open Door.

     I know your deeds. Behold I have put before you an open door which no one can shut, because you have a little power, and have kept My word, and have not denied My name.
                                                             Revelation 3:8 NASB

     The only one that can stop you from walking in the calling of God upon your life is you! When God has called you to something, no one else can close the door upon your opportunity to fulfill that call. It is only through your unfaithfulness; your refusal to obey, that the opportunity can go lost. Do not fear man, what he may say, or do to you. Walk in what God has called you to. He is the one who has opened the door! 

Those Who Fear the Lord.

     Then those who feared the Lord spoke to one another, and the Lord gave attention and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him for those who fear the Lord and esteem His name. "And they will be Mine," says the Lord of hosts, "On the day that I prepare My own possession, and I will spare them as a man spares his own son who serves him." So you will again distinguish between the righteous and the wicked, between one who serves God and one who does not serve Him.
                                                    Malachi 3:16-18 NASB

     There is very little distinguishing between the righteous and wicked in our nation today. Sadly, what is true about the spiritual condition of our nation, can be said of a great portion of the professing Church as well. There is a large segment of so called believers who have embraced a godless form of "Christianity;" one that has chosen cultural relevance over timeless moral principles of righteousness. 
     There is a huge lack of the fear of the Lord. People fail to take His word seriously, as evidenced by the boldness of many to disregard what it teaches- a disregard for its commands, and its warnings. So called Christians are quick to take a verse or two that speak of Jesus eating with publicans and sinners, to justify wicked behavior within their midst. "Judge not" is the knee jerk reaction to those who attempt to sound a warning, that things are not right in the sight of God.
     We so desperately need a revival today! Those who fear the Lord can take comfort from this passage found in Malachi. The Lord sees them. He sees their tears, hears their groans and sighs, and remembers them. They may feel all alone in this world, but they are His! God has promised to spare them! The day will come when the lines will be clear once again! It will be evident. One will be able to clearly see who is righteous, and who is not; who serves God, and who does not. 
     Today is the day to seek the face of God....

The Spirit of a Prophet Leonard Ravenhill

Speak the Truth in Love.

     "For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, The Son of Man will also be ashamed of him when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels."
                                       Mark 8:38 NASB

     We are clearly living in an adulterous and sinful generation. One does not need to look too hard to see that perilous times are upon us in these days (2 Tim 3:1-5). We see that men are lovers of self, pleasure, etc.....
     As Christians, we are called to stand out, exposing the darkness of this wicked world with the light of the truth of the gospel of Christ (Eph 5:11-14). This means that we do speak up, that we do tell a wicked world that what it is promoting is wrong, sinful in the eyes of God. It means that we do tell of the judgment to come. We do these things not to offend others, or to point a self righteous finger, but to set forth the truth in hopes of reaching those who are lost in sin.
     Understand what Jesus was doing in the sermon on the mount when he addressed issues such as lust and adultery, divorce, anger and murder, honesty and the taking of oaths, non resistance etc. (Matt 5:21-48). He was refuting the compromised teaching of the day that allowed people to live and act in ways contrary to God's law, while still believing that they were keeping it.
     We see Jesus confront an adulterous woman in Samaria. She was looking for something that her life and empty religion could not give her, but before she could find it, she had to deal with her sin (John 4:15-18). Jesus gently confronts her with the fact of her multiple marriages, because it is impossible to merely "add" Jesus to our already busy sinful lives. Jesus demands all; our hearts, wills, our lives. We must turn from our sin if we would embrace the Savior.
     Many are ashamed to speak truth. They are afraid of offending others. Pastor are afraid to preach on certain topics because they see so many in their congregations living in this sin or that sin, so they remain silent.
     It is time to give up this fearful tolerance of sin, and embrace the message of the cross (Mark 8:34); the crucified life. It is time to raise our voices strong, and lift up Christ as a Savior form sin. It is a message that the world does not want to hear, but it is also the message that will set them free (John 8:31-36).

Outside the Camp.

     Therefore Jesus also, that He might sanctify the people through His own blood, suffered outside the gate.
     So, let us go out to Him outside the camp, bearing His reproach.
     For here we do not have a lasting city, but we are seeking the city which is to come.
                                 Hebrews 13:12-14 NASB

     The epistle to the Hebrews was written to encourage early Christians to remain faithful to Christ. They faced severe pressure from friends and family to return to Judaism, and no doubt, for many, the temptation to give in would have been strong. In this book, Christ is shown to be the reality of the Old Testament types and shadows. To turn from Him, and to go back to the sacrificial system, was to leave Christianity altogether. They were encouraged in the above passage to go outside the camp, and suffer the reproach of Christ. Outside the camp was the garbage dump; the place where the animal carcasses were dumped (Hebrews 13:11). In other words, they would face rejection, reproach, and even persecution for the name of Christ. They must not return to what they had come out of.
     True Christians today are faced with a similar situation. We see a wicked world plunging deeper into moral filth today. There seems to be no shame, as men cast off what little restraint seems to be left.
     Not only has this moral decline increased in the world, it has also invaded the professing Church as well. Here is where things get tough for those who would follow Christ. There are those who draw a line. In their eyes, sin is sin, and they will not compromise. They refuse to partake in it, they refuse to tolerate it, and refuse to excuse it. This puts them at odds with multitudes of professing believers who blindly coddle sin in the name of Christian love.
     To stand up for truth in many churches today will get you labeled as judgmental, a hater, a legalist, and extreme. You will bring rejection upon yourself if you call sin what it really is, and call men to repent. In our tolerant modern theology, it is better to be "politically correct" than to be Biblically correct.
     The temptation is there, just as it has always been, to give in, to compromise, to be just like everyone else. This admonition in Hebrews is for us as well. Let us draw that line in the sand. There can be no compromise, no settling down in a lukewarm religion. We must go outside the camp with Jesus, bearing His reproach. This earth, with all of its ways is temporal. We are looking for the city which is to come.
    

Contending for the Faith: Strangers and Exiles.

Contending for the Faith: Strangers and Exiles.: All these died in faith, without receiving the promises, but having seen them and having welcomed them from a distance, and having confess...

Is Christ Enough?

     Though the fig tree should not blossom and there be no fruit on the vines, though the yield of the olive should fail and the fields produce no food, though the flock should be cut off from the fold and there be no cattle in the stalls, Yet I will exult in the Lord, I will rejoice in the God of my salvation. The Lord God is my strength, and He has made my feet like hinds' feet, and makes me walk on my high places.
                                  Habakkuk 3:17-19 NASB

     This passage of scripture brings us face to face with a pressing question. If I lost everything, if disaster struck my life, would God be enough?
     It is easy to read these verses, and indeed many of us often do, and think to ourselves that yes, God is enough. We feel that our faith is strong, and that we are satisfied with Him. It is one thing to watch a man push some one in a cart across a tightrope stretched high above a canyon, and believe that he could get us across, but quite another thing to actually get into the cart.
     Are we really content with God alone? Is He enough, is He all? In the hustle and bustle of life, in this age of instant gratification, is Christ enough, or are we clinging tightly to the material things of this earth? Could we say He was enough even if faced with the loss of a loved one? These are hard questions, but Christ must be all, if He is to be enthroned within our hearts.
   

         

Falling Out of Love

     Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.
                                 Revelation 2:4 KJV

     Revelation 2:1-7

     A man passionately in love with Jesus will labor for the Lord with an untiring zeal. He will endure hardship and tribulation for the sake of Christ with joy. He will carefully guard the truth, and contend for the faith, lest the name of Christ be reproached, and His glorious gospel misrepresented. All of this flows from his love for Christ, as love will constrain a man to do great things for the sake of another.
     There is a subtle danger however. After a lifetime of tireless work for the Lord, a man may find to his sorrow, that his passion for Christ has departed. He has tirelessly endured labors and hardships, he still earnestly stands for truth, he has fearlessly warned others of false teachers and doctrines, but these things, now, are the things he loves, in place of Christ.

    

The Mystery of Lawlessness

     For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work; only he who now restrains will do so until he is taken out of the way.
                            2 Thessalonians 2:7 NASB

    
     We see a mystery of lawlessness at work today. We have a society with no standards. We are witnessing a complete moral decay in our culture today. Things that were shameful to even mention just a few generations ago, are now brazenly shoved in our faces by people with no shame.
     Sin (rebellion) has indeed been in the world from the very day the serpent cast doubt into the heart of Eve; "Hath God said (Genesis 3:1)?" Nations and civilizations have plunged into the depths of depravity, in the same way we see today, doing shameful things with increasing boldness, until they crumbled and fell. John tells us that the whole world lies under the power of the evil one (1 John 5:19).
     Tragically, the professing Church has in a great measure embraced the sinful lifestyles of the world around it. This casting off of restraint has permeated the Church. It takes no great stretch of the imagination to see a great falling away from the faith in this day (2 Thess 2:3; 1 Timothy 4:1) What God intended to be the pillar and foundation of the truth (1 Timothy 3:15), no longer holds to absolutes. Things have become blurred. What was once held forth as truth, is now rejected as being outdated, irrelevant, and no longer culturally acceptable.
     The word of God tells of a time when men will no longer endure sound doctrine, but instead, will seek out teachers who will tell them the things that they want to hear. They will turn away from the truth, and embrace teachings that promote their sinful cravings (2 Timothy 3-4). Paul makes it clear in this passage of scripture, that it is lust; the passions and cravings of mankind, that lie at the heart of this departure from truth. Men reject truth, because it goes against their selfish desires.
     Look at what the word of God has to say about lust. In Ephesians 2:2-3, Paul writes that the believers in Ephesus had at one time walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, and the spirit that now works in the children of disobedience. He goes on to write that we all lived in this way in times past, fulfilling the lusts of the mind and the flesh. By nature, we were children of wrath. What does he mean by nature? He means selfishness; living for our passions and lusts, not caring how our lifestyles and actions affect God or anybody else. This is at the heart of sin and rebellion.
     Notice what James tells us about temptation in James 1:13-15. We are tempted when we are drawn away by our lusts. Something catches our attention, excites our passions, and then we give into our desire and sin. Notice how the serpent enticed the desire of Eve (Genesis 3:6). The serpent had brought the character of God into question, and now Eve, looking upon the forbidden tree with it's fruit, has the boldness to partake of it, give some to Adam, and sin. She chose to gratify her passion rather than obey God. Peter warns us to abstain from fleshly lusts, which wage war against our souls (1 Peter 2:11).
     Lust is the source of the corruption that is in the world (2 Peter 1:4). When you look at all of the killing, the broken homes, the sexual immorality, dishonesty, anarchy, and so on, in this world, understand that it is the fruit of selfish man in pursuit of his inner lusts. The lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh, and the boastful pride of life, is what has made this world what it is today (1 John 2:15-17).
     We see something interesting in the account of the temptation of Jesus. The devil took Jesus up to a high mountain, and showed Him all of the kingdoms of the world. He then offered Jesus all of these kingdoms, if He would fall down and worship him (Matthew 4:8-9). Now either the devil is lying, and cannot give these kingdoms to anyone, or he actually controls them. The Bible tells us that the whole world lies under his power (1 John 5:19). We are told that sin entered the world, and death through sin, by the transgression of Adam (Genesis 3:6-7; Romans 5:12-14). At the point of Adams sin, Satan gained control of this world, enticing men, through their desires, causing them to sin. I do not believe that the devil is personally tempting someone every time they sin; man is fully capable of arousing his passions on his own, but ultimately, the devil has his way as man selfishly lives for the gratification of his inner desires. We are told that the "god of this age" has blinded the minds of unbelievers, lest the light of the gospel should shine on them (2 Cor 4:4). Jesus teaches us that the wicked one takes away the word that is sown in hard hearts (Matthew 13:4, 19). The kingdom of this world is held under the power of darkness (Col 1:13), it's inhabitants held captive by the devil (2 Timothy 2:26).
     When one looks at the consequences of suppressing truth in unrighteousness, that is to reject the revelation of God to your soul, in favor of a god of your own making, it becomes evident that we are witnessing the "giving up by God" in a very large measure in society today (Romans 1:18-32). Understand that this is a judgment of God against those who reject Him. He allows them to advance deeper and deeper into moral filth. Read this passage of scripture, and let it sink in. The wicked lifestyles that we see running rampant today, are the tragic results of an individual, a society, a nation, that has been given over to depravity, by God. Paul says the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who hold the truth in unrighteousness (Romans 1:18). He goes on to list sins that are running rampant today. Fornication, homosexuality, murder, deceit, slander, among many others named, are found everywhere, even within the professing Church today. We even see "Christian ministers and teachers encouraging and promoting such things today. Once again, understand that to plunge into the depths of depravity, is a sign of being "turned over" by God. He is letting go, allowing you to persist in sin, unrestrained.
     Paul tells us that the mystery of lawlessness is at work until the one who restrains is taken out of the way. Imagine a world where there is no longer any moral restraint. What we see now is evil enough. We have witnessed a great moral decline in a very short time, yet God still restrains it. He may let some go as we have just seen, but yet He is restraining evil. Imagine a world where there is no longer any restraint! This is what will occur prior to the return of Christ. The world will be filled with all manner of sin and wickedness, such as has never been seen yet.
     Jesus Christ, in offering Himself for fallen man, has defeated the powers of darkness (Col 2:15). He came to destroy the devil's works (1 John 3:8), and has rendered him (Satan) powerless (Hebrews 2:14). We have victory in Christ. We are set free from bondage to sin. We no longer have to give in to temptation, we no longer have to fall, we have been delivered from this present evil age (Galatians 1:4). Through faith in Christ, we have everything we need for life and godliness, being made partakers of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:3-40. In Christ, we are a new creation. The old is gone, the new is come. In other words, we are changed (2 Cor 5:17). This is the gospel, salvation from sin.
     This is great news for mankind, and we should be shouting it from the rooftops. Sadly, many in the professing Church today keep this news from the very ones who need it. A great many teachers take it upon themselves to redefine sin, telling those bound in its grip, that what they are doing is who they are; they were born that way, some even say that God made them that way. Instead of taking the word of God for what it says, they use science and psychology to explain why we are the way we are.
     Some teach that God forgives, but they leave out repentance, and the fact that salvation is a life change. They fail to teach others that salvation is more than forgiveness, it is freedom from sinning as well. 
     Others choose to be silent. They do not wish to offend or hurt another. They think that it is unloving to confront an individual in sin. They are quick to cry "judge not!" Sadly, their "love" is leaving people hell bound, lost in sin.
     We see a Church today that is affirming sinful lifestyles, encouraging people to cast of guilt and shame, and to have a high esteem of themselves. We have become "politically correct." We care more about including everybody, than we care about their eternal souls, and the purity of the Church.
     This is the mystery of lawlessness at work. Teachers and pastors are led by their passions and desires instead of the word of God. We have decided to become like the world, instead of forsaking the world, in the hopes of bringing in people. Jesus warns us that the enemy will sow tares among the wheat, and this is exactly what we see happening today (Matt 13:25).
     We are in desperate need of a spiritual revival within the Church today. O how we need to be awakened, and turned from the lukewarm worldliness, and lethargy that is so prevalent among God's professing children today. We are called to be the light of the world, a city on a hill. We are to be salt, but it seems that we have lost much of  our saltiness (Matt 5:13-14). It is time to cry out to God; to humble ourselves before Him, and seek His face, that He would come in power once again, and fill His Church with His glory; that he would cleanse us, so that we would be found by Him holy and unblemished, free from spot or wrinkle (Ephesians 5:26-27). This is our present need- the presence of Christ within our midst.

     

     
    
      

Go After Your Brother!

     "What do you think? If any man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go and search for the one that is straying?
     "If it turns out that he finds it, truly I say to you, he rejoices over it more than over the ninety-nine which have not gone astray.
     "So it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones perish."
                                       Matthew 18:12-14 NASB

     Jesus continues the theme of true greatness (Matt 18:4). We see, in this portion of scripture (Matt 18:1-35), that we have a responsibility toward our brother; to watch over him, to ensure that we do not cause him to stumble, and to see that if he does, we do what we can to bring him back. This requires great humility. The common reaction is to let others do as they will, we will only worry about ourselves.
     We see from the above verses, that Christ is concerned for the individual who has gone astray. This illustration of a shepherd leaving the ninety-nine, to search for the one, leads us to His teaching on restoring a brother caught in sin.
     The Apostle Paul gives us similar instruction as well.

     Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted."
                                              Galatians 6:1 NASB

     James has this to say,

     My brethren, if any among you strays from the truth and one turns him back,
     let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.
                                             James 5:19-20 NASB

     We have this very important principle confirmed in the New Testament by the mouth of two or three witnesses (2 Cor 13:1), so why do we fail to put it into practice in so many instances today?`
     Jesus gives us a pattern to follow in the event a brother sins against us (Matt 18:15-20). The objective is the restoration of the sinning brother, and the healing of the broken relationship.
     In the event of a brother sinning against you, first go to him in private. At this point, this is between you, and the person who offended you. I believe that if people would gently, but honestly confront an individual, in a true spirit of love, it would go a long way to restoring fellowship, and in keeping a brother from straying from the faith.
     If however, your efforts do not reclaim your brother; he will not hear you, bring one or two others along with you, and try again. By bringing others in to help, it enforces the seriousness of the situation, and also ensures that things are done lovingly, and in truth.
     Sadly, sometimes it takes a little more effort to reclaim a sinning brother, and if he will not hear the two or three, then the Church must become involved. By this point things are more serious. The problem is no longer between you and another. The Church is also affected, because the refusal of the sinning brother to repent, also brings a reproach upon the body of Christ. True Christian fellowship and unity is dependent upon our submission to Christ, and our submission to, and love for each other (Phil 2:2; Col 3:12-14; 1 Peter 5:5; 1 John 1:7). Once again, the objective is to see a brother who has gone astray restored to fellowship. If he now sees the error of his ways, and humbly confesses his sin, turning from it, he has been reclaimed.
     If, at this point, he will still not turn from his sin, the only recourse is to break fellowship with the unrepentant individual. This seems harsh to many, but once again, the goal is restoration. This is actually tough love, with the intent that a "shunned" individual will come to the realization of his need of reconciliation. It would be important for the church to be in prayer for this individual, seeking that God would turn his heart back to the truth.
     The Apostle Paul rebuked the Corinthian Church for failing to go through this process with an individual who was in sexual sin. He called them arrogant for their acceptance of this unrepentant brother, and commanded them to turn the man out of fellowship. His goal was twofold. He desired that the individual would come to his senses and repent, and he was also jealously guarding the Church from further corruption (1 Cor 5:1-13).
     Again, this seems harsh to many. People view this as being judgmental, and are quick to point out that Jesus tells us not to judge (Matt 7:1). We are told in this Passage in First Corinthians, that we are to judge those within the Church (1 Cor 5:11-13). We must be careful however, that our judgment is not harsh or critical; it must be done in love, and that we judge ourselves first, before we judge another (Matt 7:1-5).
     If we would take the time to go after our Christian brothers and sisters when they stray, it would go a long way in promoting the unity and purity of the body of Christ.
     The Apostle Paul encourages the Corinthian believers to bring back a repentant individual, who had been turned out by the Church (2 Cor 2:1-11). Perhaps this was the same individual mentioned before, but the point is, a sinning brother was restored: to God, and to fellowship within the body of believers. This is how it is to work, if we would take the time, and make the effort, to see a brother restored.
    

Stumbling Blocks.

     But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.
     Woe unto the world because of offenses: for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh.
     Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire.
     And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire.
     Take heed that you do not despise one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.
     For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost.
                                 Matthew 18:6-11 KJV

     This is an often overlooked passage of scripture, but yet upon reading it, one is struck by the seriousness of these words of Jesus. We have a tremendous responsibility toward our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. We dare not be careless or negligent in this matter, as we are indeed our brother's keeper.
     In the greater context of this passage, Jesus is teaching His disciples a lesson on humility. In response to their question of who is the greatest in the kingdom, Jesus teaches them that one must be humble, like a child, to be truly great (Matt 18:1-5). 
     The world runs on pride. Decisions are made based upon selfish interests. People in general do not really look out for the concerns and needs of those around them. This goes against what Jesus tells us when He says, "Take heed that you despise not one of these little ones." The Apostle Paul asked "But why dost thou judge thy brother? Or why dost thou set at nought thy brother (Romans 14:10)?" This is the same thing; despising a brother, not caring about his feelings, concerns or needs, in relation to our own.
     What is at issue here is the salvation, and spiritual well being of an individual. We have a solemn responsibility to take care that we do not do something that would cause another to stumble in their faith. The eyes of others are on us, and the things that we say and do, the things that we promote, and the way we live from day to day are noticed by others, and influence them for good, or bad.
     Jesus urges us to take great pains with our lives so that we will not be the cause of stumbling for someone else. He uses the example of cutting off a hand or foot, or gouging out an eye, to show us that we must be radical, going to great extremes to ensure that our lives are above reproach before Him, and also before the world around us. This is a hard teaching for many today. We have our lifestyles to maintain, our "Christian liberty" to enjoy, and do not like the idea of having to look out for a "weaker" brother. Look at the example of Paul however. He would give up eating meat forever, if it would somehow cause another to stumble (1 Cor 8:13).
     There are several passages of scripture that lay out this principle for us. They are as follows,

      Romans 14:1-23

     Romans 15:1-7

     1 Corinthians 8:1-13

     1 Corinthians 10:23-33

     The point is, we as Christians are not to live for ourselves. We are to seek the well being of others. If this means that I might have to give up a little "Christian liberty", for the sake of someone who might not have that same liberty that I have, so be it. A lot of people are easily offended at the idea that a brother or sister might be stumbled by an activity that is seen by another as innocent. Many believe that their actions are between them and God alone, and no one else has the right to say anything about it. This is wrong however, according to what both Jesus, and the Apostle Paul teach in the scriptures. If your liberty leads someone into sin, it is wrong for you to flaunt that liberty around that person.
     One example is that of clothing; what is modest, as opposed to immodest in dress. Many women dress in a way that seems ok to them, but it might be a little too revealing for someone else. Now if it causes someone to wrestle with lustful thoughts, there is a problem. If that brother gives way to the thoughts he wrestles with, he has now sinned.
     The common reaction of many is that of contempt for the man wrestling with his thought life. They might say that they have a right to dress how they like; that it is between them and God, and their conscience does not convict them. They go on to blame the other person for his apparent lack of self control. This is wrong according to what the Bible teaches. If the way someone dresses is leading someone else into temptation or even sin, then that person has the responsibility to dress so as not to offend someone else. It does not matter if the other person is weaker, or lacks self control, or not. The fact is, the actions of one person, are leading to the spiritual downfall of another.
     This principle can be applied to actions and situations of all kinds. We have a God given responsibility to look out for one another. If we determine that our actions might be a cause of offense to another, then whether we feel we are right or not, we must deny self, for the sake of a weaker brother.
     Like I said, this is a hard teaching that many do not like. It involves humility, self denial, giving up things that we may have perfect liberty to be involved in, for the sake of someone who may not share the same convictions that we hold, or who is weaker, or struggles in certain areas of his or her life. We must determine that we will not place a stumbling block, or obstacle in a brother's way (Romans 14:13). This is walking in Christian love.
    
     

     

    
    

Where Is The Shame?

    "Open shame belongs to us, O, Lord, to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, because we have sinned against you."
                                           Daniel 9:9 NASB


     We have been taught that shame is a bad thing; that we need to feel good about ourselves; we need to have high self esteem.
     As a result, we now see individuals within the visible Church proudly living in sinful behavior. They have overcome any guilt and shame that they might have felt over their sin, and instead chosen to flaunt their wickedness.
     We see so much acceptance of sin today. What was once understood as evil, is now openly embraced by many who would call themselves Christians. Things that were once disgraceful  to even mention (Ephesians 5:12), are now common place. We can speak of these things without blushing in shame.  It all has to do with feeling good about ourselves and others. Many believe that this is sharing the "love of Christ" with struggling individuals, but sadly the promotion of self esteem ultimately leaves us outside of the grace of God in Christ Jesus.
     John tells us that if we say we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves, if we say we have not sinned, we are saying that God is a liar, and His word is not in us (1 John 1:8, 10). This is what so many do today. They have chosen to throw away the shame associated with sin, they have hardened their hearts, and openly embraced their sin, as a lifestyle. In other words, people no longer consider sinful acts as sin, but instead excuse things as life choices, or being born a certain way, or going so far as to claim God made them that way. So many modern "Christians" claim liberty. They somehow believe that they have freedom in Christ to do the very things that separate them from Him. The gospel, to them, has liberated them from guilt, while they remain in sin. The very thing that should drive one to the cross of Christ in repentance and faith, has been cast off in the name of self esteem.
     God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6). Those who openly flaunt their sinful lifestyles may feel no more guilt or shame, but yet their sin remains. If we confess our sins He is faithful and just to forgive our sin (1 John 1:9). To confess sin is to agree with God about our sin, and about ourselves. We agree that sin is offensive to God. We agree with Him, and take the responsibility for our actions. Yes, sin is shameful, and we should be ashamed of our sinful actions. True confession makes no excuses, and does not seek to justify our wicked behavior in any way. The truly humble sinner seeking grace, is willing to forsake his sin, because of the offense it causes God. That is his greatest shame; not the fact that he has done shameful things, but that he has grieved God.
     God never intends for us to remain in guilt and shame. Yet, as a holy, and righteous  God, He will never allow us to cast off our shame, and brazenly remain in our sin. He will free us from our guilt, and not only the guilt, but the power of sin, if we will give up, in humble submission to Him.
    

The Example of Sodom.

      Even as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire (Jude 1:7 KJV).

     We read in the Bible that Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed for their extreme wickedness. This is God's view of the inhabitants of these wicked cities.

     But the men of Sodom were wicked and sinners before the LORD exceedingly (Genesis 13:13 KJV).

     As the above text states, these cities are set forth as an example to us, a warning, lest we too fall into the gross, sinful lifestyle, that marked the inhabitants of these cities. Their destruction is a warning to future generations, that God detests sin, and will bring judgment upon those who persist in sinning. This is something that we do not like to mention now days, but it would serve us well to realize that Jude's warning comes to us in this age of grace that we now live in. The Apostle Paul is in agreement with this as well. The Old Testament failings of Israel, and the ensuing judgment that overtook them, were written down as examples to us, New Testament believers, so that we would not fall into the same lustful actions, idolatrous worship, and immorality, as they did (1 Corinthians 10:1-11).
     It is important that we take a look at Sodom and Gomorrah, so that we may see what sin they were guilty of. There are several passages of scripture that shed light on this important subject.

     Behold, this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom, pride, fullness of bread, and abundance of idleness was in her and in her daughters, neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy.
     And they were haughty, and committed abomination before me: therefore I took them away as I saw good (Ezekiel 16:49-50 KJV).

     Here we have a list of sins that are very grievous to God (Genesis 17:20).
     1. Pride
     2. Over Abundance (luxury)
     3. Idleness
     4. Selfishness

     This could just as easily describe the conditions in America today, both inside the "professing" Church, and outside of it.
     Anyone who takes an honest look at the moral conditions that run rampant today, must agree that in our foolish pride, we have cast off all moral restraint. The authority of God has been rejected. Man has explained away the scriptures, and has determined that he, himself, will define morality. Cultural relevance is now the new standard, as the word of God has been determined to be outdated, and irrelevant. Man in his pride has taken the throne that rightfully belongs to God. We live in a society, where it is all about me, and everyone is doing that which seems right in his own eyes (Judges 17:6; Proverbs 12:15).
     Look at the vast abundance of food available in this land. Having an abundant supply of food in and of itself is not sin. But once again, take an honest look around you. Look at the huge amount of "fast food," "junk food," soft drinks, and so forth, that are consumed in this country. It is no wonder that we see so many people suffering from heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, cancer, and obesity. All you can eat buffets are very popular, even with the "after church crowd", but when is the last time you have heard a really great sermon on gluttony?
     Paul taught "moderation". He would not be held in bondage to food or any other thing (1 Corinthians 6:12). We are to do all for the glory of God, even our eating and drinking (1 Corinthians 10:31), but are we really doing this? I fear that there are many who are enemies of the cross of Christ: whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is their shame, who mind earthly things (Philippians 3:18-19 KJV).
     Pride and over abundance go hand in hand. Just like the Laodiceans, we believe that we are rich, and have increased in goods, and have need of nothing. Yet we are poor, wretched, miserable, and blind (Revelation 3:17). We might have an abundance of material things, but sadly, many in this nation are spiritually emaciated.
     We have an unprecedented abundance of idle time as well. Gone are the days when our children grew up with "chores", when they did small tasks at home for an allowance. These things were intended to teach responsibility, and to instill a good work ethic in our children. We have now seen several generations of young people grow up with video games, movies, social media, and a host of other technologies that have fostered laziness, and a craving to be "entertained".  I imagine that countless hours have been spent by millions of people in front of television sets. I can remember when you used to have to get up to change the channel. Now one can mindlessly click through a hundred channels, with a remote, and are still bored with the selection that is out there. We are living in a culture that has to be entertained to be happy. What entertained a previous generation is no longer good enough, so we seek something that is more extreme, something a bit more exciting. That is the problem with idleness. Nothing satisfies us in our pursuit of fun and pleasure.
     Sadly, the professing Church is filled with individuals with too much time on their hands as well. I recently listened to a "Christian" radio program that attempted to encourage parents who were seeking "godly" alternatives to the violent video games that their youth were playing. They interviewed a youth pastor who loved playing games, and who suggested several games that were not so violent, or worldly. What if youth pastors got rid of the X Box, and got on their knees instead? Not only are people growing up pampered with no work ethic, but they are also growing up with no knowledge of the word of God, and with no real prayer life. In all of our idleness, will no one take the time to seek God? Our abundance, and our idleness speak volumes about what we are truly living for.

     And I will say to my soul, "Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat drink, and be merry."
                                           Luke 12:19 KJV

     In their selfishness, the inhabitants of Sodom had no regard for the needy among them. We have many programs aimed at meeting the needs of the needy, and no doubt there are many who have been helped in times of need. There are also many generous people who have done much to alleviate the sufferings of the less fortunate. However, for every "Good Samaritan" out there, there are many more individuals who just don't care. They live to themselves, content to meet their own needs, and should they see someone in need, they, like the priest and Levite, pass on by (Luke 10:31-32). How many professing believers pass by the "cripple at the gate beautiful"  (Acts 3:2), on their way to the temple (Church), but never stop to give aid?
     One vital proof of our Love for God, is our love for the brethren. If we see a need that we have the means to meet, but close our heart to our brother, how can we say that we love God (1 John 3:16-18). Look at the standard of judgment according to the words of Jesus. It is based upon feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the sick and imprisoned.  (Matthew 25:31-46). We may find it easy to love some people in this way, but we do not have the option to pick and choose, as Christ calls us to love even those we may see as insignificant. Some may reject this as "works," but since these are the words of Christ, we do well to take them seriously. The fact is, our actions are the proof of who we really are. If we are following Jesus, we will love others.
     We have discussed the pride and selfish lifestyles that the people of Sodom indulged in, but they are even better known for their sexual perversion. This is what Adam Clarke has to say about Ezekiel 16:49, in his commentary.

     If we are to take this place literally, Sodom was guilty of other crimes beside that for which she appears to have been especially punished; in addition to her unnatural crime, she is charged with pride, luxury, idleness, and uncharitableness; and these were sufficient to sink any city to the bottomless pit.
     (Clarke's Commentary vol 4 pp 464, 465 Abingdon press)

     Let's take a look now at some other passages of scripture that deal with Sodom's sexual sin. In Genesis we read that two angels came to the city, and Lot received them into his home, where he offered them a meal, and a place to stay for the night (Genesis 19:1-3). Read what happened next.

     But before they lay down, the men of the city, even the men of Sodom, compassed the house round, both old and young, all the people from every quarter:
     And they called unto Lot, and said unto him, Where are the men which came into thee this night? bring them out unto us that we may know them.
     And Lot went out at the door unto them, and shut the door after him,
     And said, I pray you, brethren, do not so wickedly.
     Behold now, I have two daughters which have not known man; let me, I pray you, bring them out unto you, and do ye to them what is good in your eyes: only to these men do nothing; for therefore came they under the shadow of my roof.
                                    Genesis 19:4-8 KJV

     The men of this city were homosexuals. They came to Lot seeking to have relations with his visitors. It does not speak very well of Lot either, that he offers them his daughters instead. You see, this city was given over to sexual perversion. We are told that the righteous soul of Lot was extremely vexed at all of their unlawful deeds (2 Peter 2:2-7-8). Yet we see by his offer of his daughters to these men, that some of it appears to have rubbed off on him as well.
     Jude tells us that these cities had given themselves over to sexual immorality, and homosexuality (Jude 1:7). This was the low that they in their pride and selfish ambition, had sunk to. They now pursued perverted gratification, among all of their other sins.
     Sexual preference is not something that can be explained by the psychologists. It is not the way we were born. God did not create us that way. There is no "gay gene". It flows from the very depths of depravity. It is the result of being given over to our own lusts, sinking deeper and deeper into sin; doing wicked things that at one time we would have cringed at the very thought of.
     Read Romans 1:18-32. This is the process of man rejecting God, and as a consequence, God gives them up to their own passions.  We are told that men change the glory of God into an image, an idol. They change the truth of God into a lie, and worship the creature more than the creator (Romans 1:23, 25). Here is the sad result.

     Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonor their own bodies between themselves.
                                  Romans 1:24 KJV

     For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:
     And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one for another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.
     And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient.
                                    Romans 1:26-28 KJV

     This is the result of idolatry. When we reject the revelation of God, which each one of us has received (Romans 1:19-20), we are left to ourselves. As the above verses explained, we are given up, by God, to our vile affections and lusts. A careful study of the bible will show you that wherever idolatry existed, sexual immorality was also present.
     Read the rest of the chapter. Sexual sin is not the only sin listed. Wicked behavior of every kind is listed here, all the result of man's attempt to live apart from the rule of God in his life.
     I do not write this with a judgmental attitude. I can see the direction we are heading as a nation, and I fear we are swiftly filling up the measure of our sin. King Josiah, upon reading the book of the law, recognized the danger that his nation was in, as a result of years of gross sin, and greatly feared the wrath of God (2 Chronicles 34:21). We need revival in this land. We are promised that if we as the Church (My people), would humble ourselves and pray, seek the face of God, and turn from our wicked ways, God would hear us from heaven, forgive our sin, and heal our land (2 Chronicles 7:14). We should be grieved in our hearts, as we see much of the professing Church fall away from biblical faith and standards. It is time to consecrate a fast, to call for a solemn assembly, and to seek God (Joel 1:14, 2:12-17).
     When we read of the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, we also see that God is able to deliver the godly out of temptations (2 Peter 2:6-9). It seemed that Lot stubbornly "dug in his heels" as the angels urged him to flee, but he was delivered none the less. My desire is to see godly men and women gathering together in prayer to God, on behalf of a lukewarm Church, and a sinful nation. In the days of Josiah, God sent revival into the midst of a nation steeped in idolatry. Their sin included the sacrificing of their children, not unlike the sin of abortion that defiles our nation today. We need that same revival today, where God comes in power, and sets this nation free from the grip of sin that binds it. We need to see individuals crying out in repentance, putting away their idols, forsaking their sin, and embracing Christ. It begins with us. If we do nothing, what will become of us? 
     We need our hearts broken. When Ezra heard the report that the returned exiles from the Babylonian captivity were once again intermingling with the nations around them, he was gripped with fear, and great grief. He feared that they would once again face God's righteous judgment, and his heart broke over the nation's sin. He tore his clothing, and ripped out his hair and beard; not as an external act, but as a result of his deep anguish (Ezra 9:1-15). He stood in the gap for his people, and God sent revival. As he prayed, the people came weeping over their sin, with deep repentance (Ezra 10:1-4).
      It grieves my heart deeply, to see the capitulation of multitudes of so called "Christians" to the immoral onslaught that we are facing as a Church, and nation in these days. Thousands of professed believers, in the name of "love" are accepting, tolerating, and promoting that which is wicked in God's eyes. They have no tolerance however, for an individual who stands for righteousness; who refuses to conform to this world; who instead exposes sin, in love, to the end that people might repent and be saved. But this is what is needed in this hour; Spirit empowered individuals who will stand up with a holy fear, and proclaim the truth, to a lost and dying world.
     The Bible is filled with examples of individuals who were brokenhearted over their nation's sin. We read their humble, earnest, and tearful prayers of confession and repentance. We see the results as God brings about revival, and healing to the land. All of this is good, but profits us nothing if we will not avail ourselves of His great mercy. God is looking for those who will stand in the gap for a backslidden church. He is looking for an individual who trembles at His word, and mourns over the sin that is destroying our nation today. 
     We have the example of Sodom as a warning that God hates sin, and will judge it. We also have the examples of godly men who wept and sought the Lord. What will it take to break our hearts? What will bring us to the point of weeping? What will bring us to our knees, pleading with God, confessing our sin, and the sin of this nation? 
     Only in repentance, and turning back to God, can we be saved.