The Christmas holidays are behind us, and New Year’s Day is just ahead. The week in between always encourages me to reflect on my values, on what I consider important, on what I feel needs to be a course correction in my life.
The holidays for me always revolve around family, family present and family absent, whether out of town, or departed from this life. So many memories flood my consciousness, and so many feelings crowd my heart. I am always grateful for this, because it reminds me what life is all about, and that is to reflect and show love.
First, we are to reflect the love of God. How great a love has been shown us by the Father through the Son. John 3:16 can never be over quoted; “For God loved the world in this way: He gave His One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). God always gives to us, all things that pertain to life and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3). His best is seen, not only in the gift, but in the way He gives (James 1:17). But of all He gives, He gave His Son, which is how we know love (1 John 3:16a). The love of God is more than a feeling, it’s a response to our needs, it’s beyond our ability to fully comprehend, and it’s always there even when we respond badly. The blood of Christ must touch our hearts before we will submit to the will of God and allow it to cleanse our lives.
Second, we must show the love of God. I ask myself how well I show the love of God to those around me. Do others know how much I love them? Do I respond to them from the love of God at work in me, or do I allow selfish motives to overcome me? If I am trying to be more like the Father and His Son (Eph. 5:1-2), then I must respond from love (1 John 3:16b).
We all can have questions about the past, what we did or didn’t do, what we said or didn’t say, but we can’t go back to change those things. What about the time we have ahead of us? What about, Lord willing, the coming year? I want to live for eternity, more than anything else; this is my heart’s desire and my greatest goal. I want my family to live for eternity, as I want us together in God’s presence forever, not just now. This is most important to me, but not all that is important. I so much want all my brethren where I labor together in Christ to be there too. I would love to see everyone from every congregation I have been associated with to gather around the throne of God.
So, I need to love more with the love of God, in all its multifaceted ways. From love, I need to teach, preach, live, “rebuke, correct, and encourage” (2 Tim. 4:2) so that we all can know God’s way for our lives and live it out. This year, more than any other, I want us to live more closely to God, to encourage each other to live for God, to realize eternity is what it’s all about, and that it could come at any time. I promise to do what I can in my life personally, and in my ministry for Christ. Will I make mistakes, will we all? Of course, we’re human. But if we’re working together, we can be more than conquerors (Rom. 8:37).
It’s too important to deceive ourselves into thinking eternal life will be given no matter how we live. But with the love of God at work in us, we will allow Him to accomplish His purpose in and through us. I want us all to be together in heaven. I want to grow in the love of God to allow God to use me for this goal. Will we join together to live for this heavenly goal?
Robert Johnson
Bible
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Monday, October 18, 2010
Parting the Red Sea
A recent Reuters news report states, “Moses might not have parted the Red Sea, but a strong east wind that blew through the night could have pushed the waters in the way described in Biblical writings.” Using computer simulations, U.S. researchers said wind could push water back at a point where a river bent to merge with a coastal lagoon. “The wind moves the water in a way that’s in accordance with physical laws, creating safe passage with water on two sides and then abruptly allowing the water to rush back in.”
Skeptics have always shown an interest in trying to turn miraculous events in Scripture into ordinary occurrences governed by natural law. In reality, this is testimony to the historical accuracy of the accounts themselves. If they were myth, there would be no need to try to debunk what Scripture says happened through divine intervention. That critics of Scripture offer natural explanations is evidence of their historical accuracy.
Regarding the parting of the Red Sea, Scripture makes clear it was indeed a strong wind that separated the waters. “Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the Lord swept the sea back by a strong east wind all night, and turned the sea into dry land, so the waters were divided” (Ex. 14:21). After the Israelites were across the sea, “Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘Stretch out your hand over the sea so that the waters may come back over the Egyptians, over their chariots and their horsemen.’ So Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and the sea returned to its normal state at daybreak, while the Egyptians were fleeing right into it; then the Lord overthrew the Egyptians in the midst of the sea” (Ex. 14:26-27).
What these scientists do not recognize is not just the wind factor, but also the timing of the event. The miracle is not just God using natural forces to part the waters, but when it occurred. God did not sweep the water of the Red Sea back until Moses stretched his hand over it, and the water did not return to its place until Moses again stretched out his hand over the sea. Is it coincidence that the water parted when the Israelites could pass through to the other side? Is it chance they came back when the Egyptians were in the midst of the waters, where it would cover all their chariots and horsemen? Not only this, but it had been foretold by God to Moses (Ex. 14:15-18), so that “the Egyptians will know that I am the Lord, when I am honored through Pharaoh, through his chariots and his horsemen” (14:18). The miracle is not just the wind, but also the timing of the wind, in that it had been determined beforehand by God and revealed to Moses.
This is similar to the miracle Jesus performed with Peter in the New Testament. Those who collected the annual half-shekel temple tax, which every Jewish male was to pay for the maintenance of the temple service, questioned Peter. Jesus told Peter, “However, so that we do not offend them, go to the sea and throw in a hook, and take the first fish that comes up; and when you open its mouth, you will find a shekel. Take that and give it to them for you and Me” (Matt. 17:27). It was a miracle, but not just because there was a shekel in the mouth of the fish. People catch fish with all sorts of items in them that they have swallowed. It was that Jesus had foretold this, and the exact manner in which it would happen.
Scientists, then, have not disproved the parting of the Red Sea. They have collaborated how God used a strong wind to accomplish it. What they have missed in all their efforts is how it happened in God’s time, exactly when God said it would (by Moses stretching out his hand), accomplishing exactly what God said it would (the destruction of the Egyptians). Perhaps they need to spend more time reading the entire account of Scripture. They would discover, as anyone with a good and honest heart, “The grass withers, the flower fades, But the word of our God stands forever” (Isa. 40:8).
Robert
Skeptics have always shown an interest in trying to turn miraculous events in Scripture into ordinary occurrences governed by natural law. In reality, this is testimony to the historical accuracy of the accounts themselves. If they were myth, there would be no need to try to debunk what Scripture says happened through divine intervention. That critics of Scripture offer natural explanations is evidence of their historical accuracy.
Regarding the parting of the Red Sea, Scripture makes clear it was indeed a strong wind that separated the waters. “Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the Lord swept the sea back by a strong east wind all night, and turned the sea into dry land, so the waters were divided” (Ex. 14:21). After the Israelites were across the sea, “Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘Stretch out your hand over the sea so that the waters may come back over the Egyptians, over their chariots and their horsemen.’ So Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and the sea returned to its normal state at daybreak, while the Egyptians were fleeing right into it; then the Lord overthrew the Egyptians in the midst of the sea” (Ex. 14:26-27).
What these scientists do not recognize is not just the wind factor, but also the timing of the event. The miracle is not just God using natural forces to part the waters, but when it occurred. God did not sweep the water of the Red Sea back until Moses stretched his hand over it, and the water did not return to its place until Moses again stretched out his hand over the sea. Is it coincidence that the water parted when the Israelites could pass through to the other side? Is it chance they came back when the Egyptians were in the midst of the waters, where it would cover all their chariots and horsemen? Not only this, but it had been foretold by God to Moses (Ex. 14:15-18), so that “the Egyptians will know that I am the Lord, when I am honored through Pharaoh, through his chariots and his horsemen” (14:18). The miracle is not just the wind, but also the timing of the wind, in that it had been determined beforehand by God and revealed to Moses.
This is similar to the miracle Jesus performed with Peter in the New Testament. Those who collected the annual half-shekel temple tax, which every Jewish male was to pay for the maintenance of the temple service, questioned Peter. Jesus told Peter, “However, so that we do not offend them, go to the sea and throw in a hook, and take the first fish that comes up; and when you open its mouth, you will find a shekel. Take that and give it to them for you and Me” (Matt. 17:27). It was a miracle, but not just because there was a shekel in the mouth of the fish. People catch fish with all sorts of items in them that they have swallowed. It was that Jesus had foretold this, and the exact manner in which it would happen.
Scientists, then, have not disproved the parting of the Red Sea. They have collaborated how God used a strong wind to accomplish it. What they have missed in all their efforts is how it happened in God’s time, exactly when God said it would (by Moses stretching out his hand), accomplishing exactly what God said it would (the destruction of the Egyptians). Perhaps they need to spend more time reading the entire account of Scripture. They would discover, as anyone with a good and honest heart, “The grass withers, the flower fades, But the word of our God stands forever” (Isa. 40:8).
Robert
Friday, September 10, 2010
THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE
You may have heard of the furor caused by a denominational preacher in Florida, threatening to burn copies of the Koran. His determined stance on following through with doing so was opposed by the State Department, the President, our military leaders, and almost every nation who got wind of his plans. The fear of radical Islamic militants using this to retaliate against US troops, to recruit new insurgents, and to revive terror attacks in our borders, has caused pleas for this “remembrance of the attacks of 9/11” to be put aside. Late this past Thursday, the Koran burning was called off.
I am not sure what Mr. Jones thought he might accomplish by burning copies of the Koran, outside of the publicity it generated. It is doubtful if any Muslims would convert to Christianity by such actions. Typically, such things tend to polarize feelings and beliefs and fix them even more firmly in those who hold them. Persecution, which this would have been interpreted as, would have just solidified them and their beliefs.
Certainly God “desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Tim. 2:4). However, God has created us all with free will, giving everyone the choice of whether to believe or not, to obey or not. Jesus is clear more will reject God’s loving offer of forgiveness through His sacrifice than will accept it (Matt. 7:13-14). If one wants to believe something other than the truth of the gospel, while the consequences of that choice can lead to condemnation, God allows it. Even in Micah’s day, the prophet wrote, “If a man should go about and utter wind and lies, saying, ‘I will preach to you of wine and strong drink,’ he would be the preacher for this people!” (Micah 2:11). As Adam and Eve chose to believe the lies of Satan over God, it is no different today.
Since people can exercise free will, what is our response to those who would promote error? Truth! The way to peace is through the gospel, through believing and obeying the truth of the gospel, to letting go of those things that are in error and embracing truth. To the Jews and Gentiles of Paul’s day, and the division that existed in them, he encouraged, “For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility” (Eph. 2:14-16).
Knowing the truth, living the truth, and proclaiming the truth can make a difference in the world. “ For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is God’s power for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, and also to the Greek. For in it God’s righteousness is revealed from faith to faith, just as it is written: The righteous will live by faith” (Rom. 1:16-17). Christ and the gospel are the answer to all the woes in our world. “So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, ‘If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples,
and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free’” (John 8:31-32). “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35).
Robert Johnson
I am not sure what Mr. Jones thought he might accomplish by burning copies of the Koran, outside of the publicity it generated. It is doubtful if any Muslims would convert to Christianity by such actions. Typically, such things tend to polarize feelings and beliefs and fix them even more firmly in those who hold them. Persecution, which this would have been interpreted as, would have just solidified them and their beliefs.
Certainly God “desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Tim. 2:4). However, God has created us all with free will, giving everyone the choice of whether to believe or not, to obey or not. Jesus is clear more will reject God’s loving offer of forgiveness through His sacrifice than will accept it (Matt. 7:13-14). If one wants to believe something other than the truth of the gospel, while the consequences of that choice can lead to condemnation, God allows it. Even in Micah’s day, the prophet wrote, “If a man should go about and utter wind and lies, saying, ‘I will preach to you of wine and strong drink,’ he would be the preacher for this people!” (Micah 2:11). As Adam and Eve chose to believe the lies of Satan over God, it is no different today.
Since people can exercise free will, what is our response to those who would promote error? Truth! The way to peace is through the gospel, through believing and obeying the truth of the gospel, to letting go of those things that are in error and embracing truth. To the Jews and Gentiles of Paul’s day, and the division that existed in them, he encouraged, “For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility” (Eph. 2:14-16).
Knowing the truth, living the truth, and proclaiming the truth can make a difference in the world. “ For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is God’s power for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, and also to the Greek. For in it God’s righteousness is revealed from faith to faith, just as it is written: The righteous will live by faith” (Rom. 1:16-17). Christ and the gospel are the answer to all the woes in our world. “So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, ‘If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples,
and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free’” (John 8:31-32). “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35).
Robert Johnson
Monday, August 23, 2010
I Don't Want to Grow Up...
I am deeply indebted to my friend, Jeff Jenkins, for an article by Albert Mohler, which in turn is based on an August 22, 2010 article in the New York Times magazine. In the article, writer Robin Marantz Henig deals with the phenomenon of young people not growing up, not accepting responsibility and acting as adults. Henig points out how, in 1960, the vast majority of young adults had, by the time they reached 30, accomplished the five standard milestones used to measure adult status. In 2000, less than 1/2 of young women had reached these milestones, and more disturbing, less than 1/3 of young men.
As the Times article points out, it’s hard to know how much of this is due to young people not wanting to grow up, and their parents not wanting to let them go. As Henig points out, “It is not just that they are AWOL from adulthood and its responsibilities. They are also missing the joys, consolations, challenges, and responsibilities that make for maturity and long-term flourishing. They will pay a steep price for this delay, and we will pay it with them.”
Mohler, President of a denominational seminary, makes a valid point about the effects this has in religion. “There are deep spiritual concerns here as well. The extension of adolescence (itself a dubious and problematic life stage) means further delay in accepting the kinds of roles and responsibilities that make for mature Christians. And the dangers are clear. As this report highlights, the extension of adolescence into the 20’s was culturally facilitated by the acceptance of premarital sex.”
As I read all this, I wonder how much of this plays in to young adults in the Lord’s church that don’t want to grow up, that still want to live as if they were adolescents. Is the desire to still be childish, to “play” as if still in the world, behind the spiritual problems we find? Why attend worship when there are other activities that are “more fun?” Why give financially when there are so many “big kid” toys to buy? Why be involved in the work of the church when there are so many worldly activities to enjoy? How much of this mentality is, perhaps unconsciously, influencing Christians to stay immature, to feel that God’s grace will cover such an outlook spiritually, and to miss out on the joy of maturing in Christ?
The joys of maturing in Christ? Yes, joy. By refusing to assume responsibility in Christian living, people miss out on how fantastic it is to become more like Christ. How amazing it is to see God at work in your life, molding you in Him, allowing His will to work in you, to love sin less and Jesus more, to have a clearer vision of eternity and what we must do to reach that goal.
Isn’t this what being a child of God is about? This is how Paul can say, “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say, rejoice” (Phil. 4:4). The article speaks of how premarital sex has figured into this problem. While not everyone has been guilty of such, I can guarantee you Satan is behind this, and sin is a most effective tool in convincing one there’s no harm. He promises so much pleasure from remaining childish, but fails to reveal the heartache, pain, suffering, and ultimate destruction it brings. God is not pleased with Christians who are immature, when they should and could be growing (1 Cor. 3:1-3; Heb. 5:11-14).
Paul reminds us, “When I was a child, I spoke like a child; I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put aside childish things” (1 Cor. 13:11). It’s time for parents, children, and all adults to consider how we may be undermining God’s will for our lives, for today and eternity. Maybe it’s time to say, “Grow up!” It’s definitely time to lovingly yet firmly stress the need for maturity emotionally and spiritually. It’s time for us all to honestly evaluate our lives in Christ, that we don’t miss the greatness of real Christian living today, and heaven tomorrow. “Not that I have already reached the goal, or am already fully mature, but I make every effort to take hold of it because I have also been taken hold of by Christ Jesus” (Phil. 3:12).
Robert
As the Times article points out, it’s hard to know how much of this is due to young people not wanting to grow up, and their parents not wanting to let them go. As Henig points out, “It is not just that they are AWOL from adulthood and its responsibilities. They are also missing the joys, consolations, challenges, and responsibilities that make for maturity and long-term flourishing. They will pay a steep price for this delay, and we will pay it with them.”
Mohler, President of a denominational seminary, makes a valid point about the effects this has in religion. “There are deep spiritual concerns here as well. The extension of adolescence (itself a dubious and problematic life stage) means further delay in accepting the kinds of roles and responsibilities that make for mature Christians. And the dangers are clear. As this report highlights, the extension of adolescence into the 20’s was culturally facilitated by the acceptance of premarital sex.”
As I read all this, I wonder how much of this plays in to young adults in the Lord’s church that don’t want to grow up, that still want to live as if they were adolescents. Is the desire to still be childish, to “play” as if still in the world, behind the spiritual problems we find? Why attend worship when there are other activities that are “more fun?” Why give financially when there are so many “big kid” toys to buy? Why be involved in the work of the church when there are so many worldly activities to enjoy? How much of this mentality is, perhaps unconsciously, influencing Christians to stay immature, to feel that God’s grace will cover such an outlook spiritually, and to miss out on the joy of maturing in Christ?
The joys of maturing in Christ? Yes, joy. By refusing to assume responsibility in Christian living, people miss out on how fantastic it is to become more like Christ. How amazing it is to see God at work in your life, molding you in Him, allowing His will to work in you, to love sin less and Jesus more, to have a clearer vision of eternity and what we must do to reach that goal.
Isn’t this what being a child of God is about? This is how Paul can say, “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say, rejoice” (Phil. 4:4). The article speaks of how premarital sex has figured into this problem. While not everyone has been guilty of such, I can guarantee you Satan is behind this, and sin is a most effective tool in convincing one there’s no harm. He promises so much pleasure from remaining childish, but fails to reveal the heartache, pain, suffering, and ultimate destruction it brings. God is not pleased with Christians who are immature, when they should and could be growing (1 Cor. 3:1-3; Heb. 5:11-14).
Paul reminds us, “When I was a child, I spoke like a child; I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put aside childish things” (1 Cor. 13:11). It’s time for parents, children, and all adults to consider how we may be undermining God’s will for our lives, for today and eternity. Maybe it’s time to say, “Grow up!” It’s definitely time to lovingly yet firmly stress the need for maturity emotionally and spiritually. It’s time for us all to honestly evaluate our lives in Christ, that we don’t miss the greatness of real Christian living today, and heaven tomorrow. “Not that I have already reached the goal, or am already fully mature, but I make every effort to take hold of it because I have also been taken hold of by Christ Jesus” (Phil. 3:12).
Robert
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Opinion or Truth?
“Everyone has an opinion about something,” is a familiar saying. It also seems to reflect how we as a society feel. You can’t escape public opinion polls, whether you watch television, listen to the radio, or read the paper. If you use the Internet, there are services that constantly bombard your email account, asking your opinion on this issue or that product. Even politicians are influenced by the opinions of others, and policy is often determined by what those opinions are.
Opinion, however, shouldn’t be equated with truth. In our pluralistic society, many, in favor of tolerance, have rejected objective truth. Everyone’s opinion is to have equal weight and validity. While there are times when one’s opinion should be considered in making decisions, there are times when they must not. The truth of Scripture, for example, will remain true, no matter what popular opinion may be. The religious world, by and large, has rejected the teaching of Scripture about baptism for the forgiveness of sin (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 1 Peter 3:21). This doesn’t change the will of God. Others claim it doesn’t matter what type of music we use in worshipping God, while Scripture only speaks of singing (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16). Many reject the reality of eternal punishment for the wicked, even though Jesus spoke clearly about it (John 3:36; Matthew 25:46).
What do we do with Scripture? We can ignore it on these and other issues, or even reject it, but that doesn’t change what God has revealed. “Everyone is entitled to their opinion” we hear, but our opinions must conform to the word of God, if we hope for eternal life. "He who rejects Me and does not receive My words, has that which judges him - the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day” (John 12:48). "Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven” (Matthew 7:21). Of course, putting aside our personal opinions to allow God’s will its place in our lives is the greatest expression of love. “If you love Me, keep My commandments” (John 14:15).
Opinions, by definition, often are not based on absolute certainty or positive knowledge, but what seems probable to one’s own mind. We don’t always have all the facts, but God does, and He reveals His complete and perfect will to us in His word. When I yield my opinion to His will, I reflect Him at work in me (Galatians 2:20). We can speak and live confidently about today and eternity, not because it’s our opinion, but because we have the authority of God in His word to guide us. In the final analysis, His will, not my opinion, is what will matter.
Robert Johnson
Opinion, however, shouldn’t be equated with truth. In our pluralistic society, many, in favor of tolerance, have rejected objective truth. Everyone’s opinion is to have equal weight and validity. While there are times when one’s opinion should be considered in making decisions, there are times when they must not. The truth of Scripture, for example, will remain true, no matter what popular opinion may be. The religious world, by and large, has rejected the teaching of Scripture about baptism for the forgiveness of sin (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 1 Peter 3:21). This doesn’t change the will of God. Others claim it doesn’t matter what type of music we use in worshipping God, while Scripture only speaks of singing (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16). Many reject the reality of eternal punishment for the wicked, even though Jesus spoke clearly about it (John 3:36; Matthew 25:46).
What do we do with Scripture? We can ignore it on these and other issues, or even reject it, but that doesn’t change what God has revealed. “Everyone is entitled to their opinion” we hear, but our opinions must conform to the word of God, if we hope for eternal life. "He who rejects Me and does not receive My words, has that which judges him - the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day” (John 12:48). "Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven” (Matthew 7:21). Of course, putting aside our personal opinions to allow God’s will its place in our lives is the greatest expression of love. “If you love Me, keep My commandments” (John 14:15).
Opinions, by definition, often are not based on absolute certainty or positive knowledge, but what seems probable to one’s own mind. We don’t always have all the facts, but God does, and He reveals His complete and perfect will to us in His word. When I yield my opinion to His will, I reflect Him at work in me (Galatians 2:20). We can speak and live confidently about today and eternity, not because it’s our opinion, but because we have the authority of God in His word to guide us. In the final analysis, His will, not my opinion, is what will matter.
Robert Johnson
Friday, July 9, 2010
Does It Really Matter?
While watching one of the religious channels on TV some time ago, an interesting observation was made by a denominational teacher. The question was raised about people leaving his particular religious affiliation, and the teacher was asked his thoughts about it. “When I think of people leaving because the church down the street has a choir that rocks, or a preacher who can elicit an emotional response from them, or a youth program that appeals to their children, it just breaks my heart because of what they’re losing.”
How can this be? Hasn’t society concluded what really matters is sincerity, that as long as you’re sincere, it doesn’t matter what you believe? Haven’t diverse religious groups (including the one on this TV program) recently signed joint statements of fellowship with each other? Haven’t preachers from different religions exchanged pulpits to show doctrine doesn’t really matter anymore? In an age of tolerance, why would someone make such a seemingly intolerant statement?
Could it be that, despite all the protests to the contrary, doctrine still does matter? Of course it does! Subjectivity is fine as long as it’s philosophic, not practical with people leaving one group for another. Under these circumstances, it becomes an entirely different matter. No matter what the current theological buzz may be, people still want to feel they’re right. If doctrine didn’t matter, why would all these different denominations still exist? Instead of signing fellowship agreements, why wouldn’t they just merge into one big spiritually nebulous organization, which would accept anything and everything?
Interesting enough, those groups that do accept anything and everything experience an immediate drop in membership. To accept everything is the same as standing for nothing, and people still understand the need for some absolutes in their lives. Of course, Scripture affirms that right doctrine is essential for right living. Paul exhorted Timothy, “Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine” (1 Timothy 4:16). To Titus he wrote, “But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine” (Titus 2:1). Jesus Himself said, "My doctrine is not Mine, but His who sent Me” (John 7:16).
Obviously, people still think it matters what you believe. And they’re right, because truth does matter. If we allow Scripture exclusive rights to our lives spiritually, we will chart a course that will lead to eternal life. "If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" (John 8:31-32).
Robert Johnson
How can this be? Hasn’t society concluded what really matters is sincerity, that as long as you’re sincere, it doesn’t matter what you believe? Haven’t diverse religious groups (including the one on this TV program) recently signed joint statements of fellowship with each other? Haven’t preachers from different religions exchanged pulpits to show doctrine doesn’t really matter anymore? In an age of tolerance, why would someone make such a seemingly intolerant statement?
Could it be that, despite all the protests to the contrary, doctrine still does matter? Of course it does! Subjectivity is fine as long as it’s philosophic, not practical with people leaving one group for another. Under these circumstances, it becomes an entirely different matter. No matter what the current theological buzz may be, people still want to feel they’re right. If doctrine didn’t matter, why would all these different denominations still exist? Instead of signing fellowship agreements, why wouldn’t they just merge into one big spiritually nebulous organization, which would accept anything and everything?
Interesting enough, those groups that do accept anything and everything experience an immediate drop in membership. To accept everything is the same as standing for nothing, and people still understand the need for some absolutes in their lives. Of course, Scripture affirms that right doctrine is essential for right living. Paul exhorted Timothy, “Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine” (1 Timothy 4:16). To Titus he wrote, “But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine” (Titus 2:1). Jesus Himself said, "My doctrine is not Mine, but His who sent Me” (John 7:16).
Obviously, people still think it matters what you believe. And they’re right, because truth does matter. If we allow Scripture exclusive rights to our lives spiritually, we will chart a course that will lead to eternal life. "If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" (John 8:31-32).
Robert Johnson
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
God's Grace
"For certain people have crept in unnoticed who long ago were designated for this condemnation, ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ” (Jude 4).
Jude wrote his letter, in part, to point out certain false teachers who were using the concept of God’s grace to promote sensuality. The term carries the idea of lust, excess, shamelessness, and insolence. Evidently they promoted the idea that God’s grace would cover such sins, and so committing them was acceptable, or at least allowable. Such is a perversion of the concept of grace, and by advocating such a view, they deny Christ, who died that our sins could be forgiven, and whose gospel of grace is a call to purity (1 Tim. 4:12).
Peter also speaks of such teachers. “They promise them freedom, but they themselves are slaves of corruption. For whatever overcomes a person, to that he is enslaved” (2 Pet. 2:19). How horrible it is to think these individuals distort the truth of the gospel for the sake of gratifying their desires. What judgment awaits them? Jude says they are designated for condemnation, and Peter also says, “And in their greed they will exploit you with false words. Their condemnation from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep” (2 Pet. 2:3).
I am a firm believer in God’s grace, because without it, there’s no hope for anyone to be saved. We are saved by grace through faith (Eph. 2:8). However, we must not add to nor take from what Scripture teaches. God’s grace is always available, at work through the blood of Christ as we walk in the light (1 John 1:7). But what about deliberate, unrepented sins? What about when we know what we’re doing is wrong, but we do it anyway? John earlier said we must confess our sins for forgiveness and cleansing to take place (1 John 1:9). Simon the magician was so exhorted by Peter (Acts 8:22). And Paul warned the Galatians, that to add the Law of Moses to the gospel would cause them to fall from grace (Gal. 5:4).
The point of this all is we can be guilty of turning grace into sensuality when we want to appeal to it to justify continual sin. I have lost count of those who, when confronted with active sin in their life, appeal to grace as permission to sin. The phrase, “I’m just going to rely on God’s grace,” is a false hope. There is a difference in trying to overcome sin, struggling against it, falling at times but repenting and continuing the fight of faith, than condoning sin because of grace. The words of Paul are a strong reminder of this difference. “What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it?” (Rom. 6:1-2).
Certainly none of us are perfect, and that’s not what I’m trying to say. We must constantly examine our hearts, our motives, and make every effort to align them with the will of God. But if we persist in sin, to say “I’m relying on the grace of God” is precarious spiritually. Perhaps the false teaching of many in the religious world has had an impact on the body of Christ. Perhaps the spirit of the age, the concept of God allowing just about anything and turning a blind eye to it all, is part of it, but it’s a delusion. Don’t want to worship God? No problem, grace will cover it. Want to be rich towards self, but not toward God? There’s grace. Have time to do whatever you want, but not to serve God? Grace will take care of it. Living in a sinful lifestyle, but don’t want to stop? Ah yes, don’t worry, we have grace.
Of course, I’m being facetious. But it does have an all too familiar sound, doesn’t it? Are you willing to deny Christ by taking such a view? Are you willing to exchange your soul for it? We will be judged according to God’s word and our deeds (John 12:48; 2 Cor. 5:10). Thank God for His grace, but don’t trust in grace to exonerate a deliberate sinful life. Remember what grace teaches (Titus 2:11-12).
Robert Johnson
Jude wrote his letter, in part, to point out certain false teachers who were using the concept of God’s grace to promote sensuality. The term carries the idea of lust, excess, shamelessness, and insolence. Evidently they promoted the idea that God’s grace would cover such sins, and so committing them was acceptable, or at least allowable. Such is a perversion of the concept of grace, and by advocating such a view, they deny Christ, who died that our sins could be forgiven, and whose gospel of grace is a call to purity (1 Tim. 4:12).
Peter also speaks of such teachers. “They promise them freedom, but they themselves are slaves of corruption. For whatever overcomes a person, to that he is enslaved” (2 Pet. 2:19). How horrible it is to think these individuals distort the truth of the gospel for the sake of gratifying their desires. What judgment awaits them? Jude says they are designated for condemnation, and Peter also says, “And in their greed they will exploit you with false words. Their condemnation from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep” (2 Pet. 2:3).
I am a firm believer in God’s grace, because without it, there’s no hope for anyone to be saved. We are saved by grace through faith (Eph. 2:8). However, we must not add to nor take from what Scripture teaches. God’s grace is always available, at work through the blood of Christ as we walk in the light (1 John 1:7). But what about deliberate, unrepented sins? What about when we know what we’re doing is wrong, but we do it anyway? John earlier said we must confess our sins for forgiveness and cleansing to take place (1 John 1:9). Simon the magician was so exhorted by Peter (Acts 8:22). And Paul warned the Galatians, that to add the Law of Moses to the gospel would cause them to fall from grace (Gal. 5:4).
The point of this all is we can be guilty of turning grace into sensuality when we want to appeal to it to justify continual sin. I have lost count of those who, when confronted with active sin in their life, appeal to grace as permission to sin. The phrase, “I’m just going to rely on God’s grace,” is a false hope. There is a difference in trying to overcome sin, struggling against it, falling at times but repenting and continuing the fight of faith, than condoning sin because of grace. The words of Paul are a strong reminder of this difference. “What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it?” (Rom. 6:1-2).
Certainly none of us are perfect, and that’s not what I’m trying to say. We must constantly examine our hearts, our motives, and make every effort to align them with the will of God. But if we persist in sin, to say “I’m relying on the grace of God” is precarious spiritually. Perhaps the false teaching of many in the religious world has had an impact on the body of Christ. Perhaps the spirit of the age, the concept of God allowing just about anything and turning a blind eye to it all, is part of it, but it’s a delusion. Don’t want to worship God? No problem, grace will cover it. Want to be rich towards self, but not toward God? There’s grace. Have time to do whatever you want, but not to serve God? Grace will take care of it. Living in a sinful lifestyle, but don’t want to stop? Ah yes, don’t worry, we have grace.
Of course, I’m being facetious. But it does have an all too familiar sound, doesn’t it? Are you willing to deny Christ by taking such a view? Are you willing to exchange your soul for it? We will be judged according to God’s word and our deeds (John 12:48; 2 Cor. 5:10). Thank God for His grace, but don’t trust in grace to exonerate a deliberate sinful life. Remember what grace teaches (Titus 2:11-12).
Robert Johnson
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Three Coins in the Fountain
While on vacation, I was sitting in the courtyard at a shopping mall, watching people come and go. Three teen girls walked by, and they all began looking in the fountain (one girl actually got in the fountain), trying to find quarters to keep for themselves. Alas, the biggest coins they could find were nickels, but mainly what they recovered were pennies. In disgust, one of the girls loudly announced, “Man, there’s nothing but cheap people around here!” Not finding enough nickels to get whatever it was they wanted, they threw them back in and walked away.
Several thoughts crossed my mind as I witnessed this. My first response was, “You’re diving in a shopping mall fountain and have the audacity to call people who put coins in it cheap?” Reflecting on how they were dressed, my next response was on how they were not in want or need for any necessity of life, but still didn’t have enough to satisfy them. I suppose it is an illustration of how materialistic the world has become.
I believe we’re probably all guilty, adults and young people, those outside of Christ and those in Christ, of not realizing what the concept of sacrifice involves. Yes, we’re familiar with Christ’s sacrifice for us, becoming flesh and blood and then literally offering Himself for our sins. The Hebrew writer reminds us, “But now once at the consummation of the ages He has been manifested to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself” (Heb. 9:26). Without this sacrifice we would have no hope for eternal life! What a price the Son of God paid for us.
The Son of God not only was willing to offer Himself as a sacrifice for us, but calls us to have that same attitude of heart, to develop a sacrificial lifestyle for Him. Paul writes, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service” (Rom. 12:1). We are to be so dedicated and committed to our Lord because of what He has offered us through Himself; we should freely give our lives in service to Him as a reflection of our love for Him, our walking in His image.
What are some ways we can live sacrificially to Jesus? The Hebrew writer tells us, “Through Him then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name” (Heb. 13:15). Through our speech we should praise Christ, telling others what He has done that we might have life through Him. The writer also says, “And do not neglect doing good and sharing, for with such sacrifices God is pleased” (Heb. 13:16). Not only in words but in deeds we show Christ in us, helping others and serving others as we have opportunity (Gal. 6:10).
Paul reminded the Corinthians that Jesus became poor through the incarnation that we might be rich spiritually in Him (2 Cor. 8:9). We are blessed in Him, with all spiritual blessings (Eph. 1:3), and everything for life and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3). We should develop a sacrificial heart and life. I suppose we could go fountain diving, figuratively speaking, to have more and more for ourselves, or share with the riches Christ has blessed us, and find even greater blessings in return. What about you? “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma” (Eph. 5:1-2 ).
Robert Johnson
Several thoughts crossed my mind as I witnessed this. My first response was, “You’re diving in a shopping mall fountain and have the audacity to call people who put coins in it cheap?” Reflecting on how they were dressed, my next response was on how they were not in want or need for any necessity of life, but still didn’t have enough to satisfy them. I suppose it is an illustration of how materialistic the world has become.
I believe we’re probably all guilty, adults and young people, those outside of Christ and those in Christ, of not realizing what the concept of sacrifice involves. Yes, we’re familiar with Christ’s sacrifice for us, becoming flesh and blood and then literally offering Himself for our sins. The Hebrew writer reminds us, “But now once at the consummation of the ages He has been manifested to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself” (Heb. 9:26). Without this sacrifice we would have no hope for eternal life! What a price the Son of God paid for us.
The Son of God not only was willing to offer Himself as a sacrifice for us, but calls us to have that same attitude of heart, to develop a sacrificial lifestyle for Him. Paul writes, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service” (Rom. 12:1). We are to be so dedicated and committed to our Lord because of what He has offered us through Himself; we should freely give our lives in service to Him as a reflection of our love for Him, our walking in His image.
What are some ways we can live sacrificially to Jesus? The Hebrew writer tells us, “Through Him then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name” (Heb. 13:15). Through our speech we should praise Christ, telling others what He has done that we might have life through Him. The writer also says, “And do not neglect doing good and sharing, for with such sacrifices God is pleased” (Heb. 13:16). Not only in words but in deeds we show Christ in us, helping others and serving others as we have opportunity (Gal. 6:10).
Paul reminded the Corinthians that Jesus became poor through the incarnation that we might be rich spiritually in Him (2 Cor. 8:9). We are blessed in Him, with all spiritual blessings (Eph. 1:3), and everything for life and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3). We should develop a sacrificial heart and life. I suppose we could go fountain diving, figuratively speaking, to have more and more for ourselves, or share with the riches Christ has blessed us, and find even greater blessings in return. What about you? “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma” (Eph. 5:1-2 ).
Robert Johnson
Friday, June 4, 2010
The Junk Drawer
Almost every home has one somewhere, hidden from view. Sure, it started innocently enough, with just a few things here and there, but everyone kept adding to it. Over a period of weeks and months it increased in size to the point where something has to be done; it can’t be ignored any longer! Someone must clean out the "junk drawer."
Yes, most of our homes have a place reserved for junk, things we don't regularly use but don't want to throw away. It may be a cabinet drawer in the kitchen, or the hall closet, or the garage, but there it is, and it accumulates and clutters up so fast that finding anything becomes almost impossible. It is only with the greatest amount of courage we go to these places to sort things out, clean them up, and provide order once more.
Unfortunately, our lives can resemble a junk drawer. We can allow so many things to occupy our time and clutter our lives, there is no room left for what is really important. Or, perhaps we allow sinful things to enter our hearts and take root in our lives, things we want to keep hidden from others, things which can grow and turn us away from God. Only with a renewed commitment spiritually will we find the courage to take inventory of our lives and sort out what is important from what is not, what should come first from what must follow, what activities we should cease and what should take their place.
The affirmation of Jesus still holds true; "But seek first the kingdom and His righteousness..." (Matthew 6:33). Putting God first keeps our priorities clear, letting us walk each day in fellowship with Him and the cleansing the blood of His Son provides (1 John 1:7). Putting God first keeps us focused and pure, offering a more consistent and peaceful existence than that which allows sin to accumulate, only to be dealt with later.
Let us rejoice in the love of God offered in Christ Jesus. Let us reflect on what we have in Him and the importance of His will in our lives. May we clean out the junk of sin and neglect from the hidden places in our hearts, that we can find what is truly important and needful for our lives.
Robert Johnson
Yes, most of our homes have a place reserved for junk, things we don't regularly use but don't want to throw away. It may be a cabinet drawer in the kitchen, or the hall closet, or the garage, but there it is, and it accumulates and clutters up so fast that finding anything becomes almost impossible. It is only with the greatest amount of courage we go to these places to sort things out, clean them up, and provide order once more.
Unfortunately, our lives can resemble a junk drawer. We can allow so many things to occupy our time and clutter our lives, there is no room left for what is really important. Or, perhaps we allow sinful things to enter our hearts and take root in our lives, things we want to keep hidden from others, things which can grow and turn us away from God. Only with a renewed commitment spiritually will we find the courage to take inventory of our lives and sort out what is important from what is not, what should come first from what must follow, what activities we should cease and what should take their place.
The affirmation of Jesus still holds true; "But seek first the kingdom and His righteousness..." (Matthew 6:33). Putting God first keeps our priorities clear, letting us walk each day in fellowship with Him and the cleansing the blood of His Son provides (1 John 1:7). Putting God first keeps us focused and pure, offering a more consistent and peaceful existence than that which allows sin to accumulate, only to be dealt with later.
Let us rejoice in the love of God offered in Christ Jesus. Let us reflect on what we have in Him and the importance of His will in our lives. May we clean out the junk of sin and neglect from the hidden places in our hearts, that we can find what is truly important and needful for our lives.
Robert Johnson
Monday, May 31, 2010
Me or Christ?
I guess I’m a fanatic, probably have lost touch with reality, don’t have a clue about the world in which we live. So be it. If you want to write me off and call me irrelevant, I can live with that as well. However, I just don’t understand how so many children of God have so little to do with their Father, and think of themselves as pleasing to Him.
There is this verse of Scripture that reminds me of what being a child of God demands, and yes, I have no qualms using the term demand. “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matt. 6:33). Almost everyone takes comfort in the last part of this verse, but do we really consider the first part of this verse?
“Oh, come on, it’s a holiday, do you really expect us to be at church with a three day weekend? Or come back on Sunday night? Get a life!” I do have a life, thank you, and it’s the one my heavenly Father offers me. When I came in obedience to His will and was immersed so that my sins could be forgiven, I entered a covenant relationship with God, I committed my life to Him, I said by that act of submission that nothing would come before Him, that He would be Lord of my life (1 Pet. 3:15). I don’t see in the words “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” the word “except for…” Yet how often is it we say by our actions, “Except for holidays, except for company, except for work, except for play, except, except, except.”
I believe far too many practice a convenient Christianity. Oh yes, we want God to always be there for us, but we get to pick and choose when we take God seriously in our lives. How do we explain what it means to be crucified with Christ (Gal. 2:20), to live is Christ (Phil. 1:21), Christ is life (Col. 3:4), and so many other exhortations? In reality, Jesus isn’t Lord of one’s life; the individual is.
Now, why am I saying this? Is there anything easier for us to do than not forsaking our assembling together (Heb. 10:25)? Yet we can’t seem to muster the commitment to do what is easiest anymore. Think about this. There are 168 hours in a week. Let’s take out 8 hours a day for sleep and another 8 hours a day for work. That leaves 56 hours. To attend Sunday Bible class, worship twice on Sunday, and Wednesday Bible class, you have used up 7% of your remaining time, which leaves you 93% for other activities. Tell me again how unreasonable it is to do this.
We want to spend eternity with God, but don’t want to spend any time with Him now. If we can’t find the time to do the easiest for God, what about the rest? Do you share the gospel with others, with your family? Are you committed to personal holiness? To having the mind of Christ? God is not, must not, be a casual acquaintance; He is life!
So, let’s be honest. Do you seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness only when it’s convenient, or as an integral and vital part of life you cannot do without? “It’s a holiday!” “Seek first the kingdom of God.” It’s summer! “Seek first the kingdom of God.” “It’s whatever we want to do!!” “Seek first the kingdom of God.”
I’m not saying you can’t have a vacation, or be involved in various aspects of life. I just wonder why they always come in conflict and take priority over the kingdom of God? Maybe I am nuts and out of touch with life today. But I can’t get the image of my Jesus suffering on the cross for my sins out of my head or heart. Perhaps the problem is there are too many Christians who don’t have it in theirs. But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world” (Gal. 6:14). Who is it we really live for?
Robert Johnson
There is this verse of Scripture that reminds me of what being a child of God demands, and yes, I have no qualms using the term demand. “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matt. 6:33). Almost everyone takes comfort in the last part of this verse, but do we really consider the first part of this verse?
“Oh, come on, it’s a holiday, do you really expect us to be at church with a three day weekend? Or come back on Sunday night? Get a life!” I do have a life, thank you, and it’s the one my heavenly Father offers me. When I came in obedience to His will and was immersed so that my sins could be forgiven, I entered a covenant relationship with God, I committed my life to Him, I said by that act of submission that nothing would come before Him, that He would be Lord of my life (1 Pet. 3:15). I don’t see in the words “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” the word “except for…” Yet how often is it we say by our actions, “Except for holidays, except for company, except for work, except for play, except, except, except.”
I believe far too many practice a convenient Christianity. Oh yes, we want God to always be there for us, but we get to pick and choose when we take God seriously in our lives. How do we explain what it means to be crucified with Christ (Gal. 2:20), to live is Christ (Phil. 1:21), Christ is life (Col. 3:4), and so many other exhortations? In reality, Jesus isn’t Lord of one’s life; the individual is.
Now, why am I saying this? Is there anything easier for us to do than not forsaking our assembling together (Heb. 10:25)? Yet we can’t seem to muster the commitment to do what is easiest anymore. Think about this. There are 168 hours in a week. Let’s take out 8 hours a day for sleep and another 8 hours a day for work. That leaves 56 hours. To attend Sunday Bible class, worship twice on Sunday, and Wednesday Bible class, you have used up 7% of your remaining time, which leaves you 93% for other activities. Tell me again how unreasonable it is to do this.
We want to spend eternity with God, but don’t want to spend any time with Him now. If we can’t find the time to do the easiest for God, what about the rest? Do you share the gospel with others, with your family? Are you committed to personal holiness? To having the mind of Christ? God is not, must not, be a casual acquaintance; He is life!
So, let’s be honest. Do you seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness only when it’s convenient, or as an integral and vital part of life you cannot do without? “It’s a holiday!” “Seek first the kingdom of God.” It’s summer! “Seek first the kingdom of God.” “It’s whatever we want to do!!” “Seek first the kingdom of God.”
I’m not saying you can’t have a vacation, or be involved in various aspects of life. I just wonder why they always come in conflict and take priority over the kingdom of God? Maybe I am nuts and out of touch with life today. But I can’t get the image of my Jesus suffering on the cross for my sins out of my head or heart. Perhaps the problem is there are too many Christians who don’t have it in theirs. But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world” (Gal. 6:14). Who is it we really live for?
Robert Johnson
Friday, May 28, 2010
A New Testament Christian
What does it mean to be a Christian? How would you define the term in our modern era? While the word is found in Scripture (Acts 11:26; 1 Pet. 4:16), it’s sorely misunderstood today. Christianity overall, and being a Christian specifically, are such ambiguous concepts they can mean almost anything. In today’s environment, you can call yourself a Christian, no matter what you believe or what you practice.
Consider a letter sent to a denominational publication about the concept of hell. The person asks, “What kind of a God would ask, even command us, to forgive seventy times seven in a day and to go the second mile, while He Himself is willing to forgive mankind only in this short span of life?” The answer is, of course, the God of Scripture, where He writes, "He who believes in the Son has eternal life; but he who does not obey the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him" (John 3:36). In this life God forgives us so many more times than the seventy times seven. The depth of His forgiveness isn’t shallow, as He sent His Son in the flesh to die for our sins.
However, forgiveness is a matter for this life, not eternity. The Hebrew writer reminds us, “it is appointed for men to die once and after this comes judgment” (Heb. 9:27). Paul speaks of judgment as the time when “we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be recompensed for his deeds in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad” (2 Cor. 5:10). Notice he says the deeds done in the body, in this life. In this life we can seek God’s mercy, grace, and forgiveness, but after this life comes judgment, where we are held accountable for the decisions we made in this life, for eternity. This side of eternity is where we find forgiveness, not afterwards. We are reminded of the “great chasm” that separated the rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:26), from which one could not pass over to the other. Where one spends eternity is, well, eternal.
The person who couldn’t conceive God condemning people to hell is not familiar with the God of Scripture, or Scripture itself. Such is the modern persuasion of trying to make God into our image, rather than allowing ourselves to be conformed into His. “’For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,’” declares the LORD. ‘For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts’” (Isa. 55:8-9).
The name Christian means “a follower of Christ.” To follow Christ one must follow His word (John 8:31-32). Just to wear the name Christian, then, doesn’t make it so, as the above example reveals. How do we distinguish ourselves as Christians, compared with its use in the world around us? With such distorted concepts, we should identify ourselves as New Testament Christians. Such a phrase separates itself from the conflicting views of society, and focuses attention back where it should be, back on Christ and His revealed will. As long as the name Christian is used indiscriminately, there will continue to be confusion and problems in society. Are you a New Testament Christian? Do you live as a New Testament Christian?
Robert Johnson
Consider a letter sent to a denominational publication about the concept of hell. The person asks, “What kind of a God would ask, even command us, to forgive seventy times seven in a day and to go the second mile, while He Himself is willing to forgive mankind only in this short span of life?” The answer is, of course, the God of Scripture, where He writes, "He who believes in the Son has eternal life; but he who does not obey the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him" (John 3:36). In this life God forgives us so many more times than the seventy times seven. The depth of His forgiveness isn’t shallow, as He sent His Son in the flesh to die for our sins.
However, forgiveness is a matter for this life, not eternity. The Hebrew writer reminds us, “it is appointed for men to die once and after this comes judgment” (Heb. 9:27). Paul speaks of judgment as the time when “we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be recompensed for his deeds in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad” (2 Cor. 5:10). Notice he says the deeds done in the body, in this life. In this life we can seek God’s mercy, grace, and forgiveness, but after this life comes judgment, where we are held accountable for the decisions we made in this life, for eternity. This side of eternity is where we find forgiveness, not afterwards. We are reminded of the “great chasm” that separated the rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:26), from which one could not pass over to the other. Where one spends eternity is, well, eternal.
The person who couldn’t conceive God condemning people to hell is not familiar with the God of Scripture, or Scripture itself. Such is the modern persuasion of trying to make God into our image, rather than allowing ourselves to be conformed into His. “’For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,’” declares the LORD. ‘For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts’” (Isa. 55:8-9).
The name Christian means “a follower of Christ.” To follow Christ one must follow His word (John 8:31-32). Just to wear the name Christian, then, doesn’t make it so, as the above example reveals. How do we distinguish ourselves as Christians, compared with its use in the world around us? With such distorted concepts, we should identify ourselves as New Testament Christians. Such a phrase separates itself from the conflicting views of society, and focuses attention back where it should be, back on Christ and His revealed will. As long as the name Christian is used indiscriminately, there will continue to be confusion and problems in society. Are you a New Testament Christian? Do you live as a New Testament Christian?
Robert Johnson
Saturday, May 22, 2010
All Scripture is Inspired
The Bible is a marvelous work, which stands above any other piece of literature. It is, after all, God's revelation of Himself, and His will, for humanity. Written by approximately 40 individuals over a 1600 year period, it shows unity and harmony in declaring the theme of salvation to a lost world.
Questions have arisen, however, as to how we should approach this book. There are those who contend that each book is an individual unit, separate and complete in itself. They argue it was never intended for us to “interpret Scripture by Scripture.” Thus, we shouldn't consider each book authoritative, and by examining them together, have a complete picture of God's will. For example, they state Romans was written only for the church at Rome, Philippians for Philippi, and so on. Each letter applies only to those situations to which they were originally written. They were not intended to be examined together, taken together for doctrine and Christian living.
Such a loose view of Scripture is used to authorize practices foreign to our worship. For example, instrumental music doesn't matter, as the passages speaking of music were not meant to be applied to the church today. They have authority only to those congregations addressed in those letters. Women leading in worship is not wrong, as Paul's exclusion in Corinthians applied only to Corinth, and not us (1 Cor. 14:34). Such examples could be multiplied.
While this view of Scripture is being emphasized by some in our brotherhood, this is not the view Scripture presents of itself. To Timothy Paul wrote, “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work” (2 Tim. 3:16). Paul speaks of Scripture as a whole, not individual books or letters that apply only to certain people, under certain circumstances.
Understandably, Paul's teachings reflect such a view of Scripture. To the Colossians, Paul exhorted a letter exchange with the Laodiceans, because of the good both could accomplish for each congregation (Colossians 4:16). To the church at Corinth, Paul wrote of sending Timothy, who would remind them of his ways “which are in Christ, just as I teach everywhere in every church” (1 Cor. 4:17). No matter where Paul labored, or to whom he wrote, he understood it all to be the will of God, and all applying to us as Christians. By reading each of his letters to the various churches, we do learn about the unique situations many of them faced. Not only this, we also have a complete picture of God's will, and how it applies in every situation.
The Bible is not a loose collection of books, each applying only to itself, and not to be related to the rest. The 66 books in the Bible are those inspired by God, those which God wanted us to have as His Word. We recognize they were written under various circumstances and times, to various groups and individuals. However, by also considering them together as a unit, as God's Word for us, we have a complete picture of Him and His will. By examining Scripture this way, we can have a complete understanding of what we must do to be saved, of how we can live the Christian life, of having the promise of eternity. All Scripture is inspired of God, and all Scripture reveals God and His will to us.
Robert
Questions have arisen, however, as to how we should approach this book. There are those who contend that each book is an individual unit, separate and complete in itself. They argue it was never intended for us to “interpret Scripture by Scripture.” Thus, we shouldn't consider each book authoritative, and by examining them together, have a complete picture of God's will. For example, they state Romans was written only for the church at Rome, Philippians for Philippi, and so on. Each letter applies only to those situations to which they were originally written. They were not intended to be examined together, taken together for doctrine and Christian living.
Such a loose view of Scripture is used to authorize practices foreign to our worship. For example, instrumental music doesn't matter, as the passages speaking of music were not meant to be applied to the church today. They have authority only to those congregations addressed in those letters. Women leading in worship is not wrong, as Paul's exclusion in Corinthians applied only to Corinth, and not us (1 Cor. 14:34). Such examples could be multiplied.
While this view of Scripture is being emphasized by some in our brotherhood, this is not the view Scripture presents of itself. To Timothy Paul wrote, “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work” (2 Tim. 3:16). Paul speaks of Scripture as a whole, not individual books or letters that apply only to certain people, under certain circumstances.
Understandably, Paul's teachings reflect such a view of Scripture. To the Colossians, Paul exhorted a letter exchange with the Laodiceans, because of the good both could accomplish for each congregation (Colossians 4:16). To the church at Corinth, Paul wrote of sending Timothy, who would remind them of his ways “which are in Christ, just as I teach everywhere in every church” (1 Cor. 4:17). No matter where Paul labored, or to whom he wrote, he understood it all to be the will of God, and all applying to us as Christians. By reading each of his letters to the various churches, we do learn about the unique situations many of them faced. Not only this, we also have a complete picture of God's will, and how it applies in every situation.
The Bible is not a loose collection of books, each applying only to itself, and not to be related to the rest. The 66 books in the Bible are those inspired by God, those which God wanted us to have as His Word. We recognize they were written under various circumstances and times, to various groups and individuals. However, by also considering them together as a unit, as God's Word for us, we have a complete picture of Him and His will. By examining Scripture this way, we can have a complete understanding of what we must do to be saved, of how we can live the Christian life, of having the promise of eternity. All Scripture is inspired of God, and all Scripture reveals God and His will to us.
Robert
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