Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen

I wonder how often something keeps us from God. How often does something
keep us from believing and trusting in him enough to really live up to the
definition of what faith is all about. I'm sure you remember the scripture:
"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not
seen." (KJV) or perhaps a more modern translation would explain it better:
"Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it
gives us assurance about things we cannot see." (NLT) (Hebrews 11:1)

What keeps us from having that assurance about things we cannot see? If
faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen, why do
so many of us who claim to have faith worry so much about the future?

Many times I think we are like the man in this little story: It seems that a
man descended into a deep well by sliding down a rope which was supposed to
reach the bottom, but when he came to the end of the rope, his feet still
could not touch the bottom. He held on, but because his strength was gone
and he could not climb back up. Finally he could hold on no longer and he
let go fearing the worst. He fell three inches to the bottom.

This is the same problem some of us have today. Some of us are just 3 inches
from trusting God, but we are using all of our strength to hold on to our
doubts and fears. We can't make ourselves trust God and refuse to trust
anyone but ourselves. One man said, "He who cannot let go, cannot hang on,"
he's talking about holding to faith in God and really trusting him. Before
we can let God help heal our hurts and comfort us in our difficulties we
must have faith enough to let go. We must believe in God, his strength, his
power and his ability to help us.

Sadly far too often we to try and hold on to our sanity, to try and reason
everything out for ourselves, to "fix" things, make them all better, to
solve all of our own problems and then we are crushed when we can't do it.

At some point in our Christian walk we are going to have to follow the old
adage, "Let go and let God." In other words, some time we are going to have
to let go of the rope, stop trying to fix the unfixable and turn it over to
God. I don't know about you, but I'm not so worried about having a faith
that can move mountains as I am having a faith that will help me make it
through tomorrow and the next day and the day after that. The writer of
Hebrews also tells us in Hebrews 13:5, ". For God has said, "I will never
fail you. I will never abandon you."

That's the faith that I'm trying for, how about you? What is it that is
keeping you three inches from God? Maybe it's time to let go and let him
handle the problem and fix the unfixable!

Russ Lawson

Lake Harbor, Florida

When Derick Lee walked into the home of Jacquie Hagler in Lake Harbor, Florida last Friday, all he saw were 15 women attending a jewelry party. Moments later he was fleeing from the scene because of one he hadn't seen: Jesus.

 

Lee's intent was to rob the women of whatever money they had with them. At first the women gathered for the party thought it was a gag, and laughed at the gun Lee held, thinking it was only a water pistol. When Lee showed them some of the bullets in the gun, they realized this was no gag. But instead of emptying their purses for the thief, they did something quite unexpected.

 

Jacquie took the lead by standing up and saying, "In the name of Jesus, get out of my house now!" Lee threatened to shoot someone if they didn't start handing him their money. But the others, emboldened by their hostess' actions, stood with her and began chanting, "Jesus, Jesus, Jesus". Looking bewildered, Lee turned and ran from the house - empty-handed. (He was arrested later.)

 

I personally know a man of strong faith who, years ago, was held up at gunpoint by man demanding his wallet. This man of faith handed him his wallet (it likely didn't contain much money), but then asked the man to let him pray with him before he left. The offer of spiritual intercession was more than the thief expected, and he handed back the wallet and ran.

 

Though I wouldn't say this is a guaranteed way to stop a robbery, these are two compelling cases of Jesus overpowering would-be criminals.

 

Another man I've read about was on a mission to hurt people, but was also overpowered by the Lord. Saul of Tarsus, a leader of the Jewish faithful of his day, was incensed at this new band of followers of Jesus. He regarded them as blasphemers, a capital crime in the Jewish religion. Luke tells us that he "went to the high priest and asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem" (Acts 9:1,2). Saul was a man, Luke tells us, who was "breathing out threats and murders against the disciples of the Lord" (Acts 9:1). He wasn't playing around!

 

Before reaching Damascus Jesus confronted Saul in a blinding light. Saul quickly realized his enormous error, and addressed Jesus as "Lord" (Acts 9:5,6). Three days later Saul was told to arise and be baptized to wash away his sins (Acts 9:18; 22:16). After his baptism he spent the rest of his life preaching "the faith which he once tried to destroy" (Galatians 1:23). He had been overpowered.

 

Years later Paul (formerly known as Saul) wrote about some in the church in Corinth who had once been thieves, drunkards, revilers, extortioners, etc. In that condition, he said, one cannot inherit the kingdom of God. "And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God" (1 Corinthians 6:9-11).

 

We commend Jacquie and her friends for their courageous faith in the face of potential harm. But it's the power of Jesus that really amazes us. One has to wonder how many criminals or potential criminals the Lord has overpowered through the centuries.

 

Timothy D. Hall.

 

Proverbs 19:27

"Cease listening, my son, to discipline, And you will stray from the words
of knowledge" (Proverbs 19:27 NASB). Following the words of knowledge does
not happen aimlessly or carelessly. It takes a diligent effort and frequent
correction. We often make mistakes and get sidetrack so it is foolish to
ignore godly teaching and reproof. Doing so will take us away from the path
we want to follow.

Jeremy Sprouse

Proverbs 19:26

"He who assaults his father and drives his mother away Is a shameful and
disgraceful son" (Proverbs 19:26 NASB). As parents, it is vitally important
to train your children in God's ways including "children, obey your parents
in the Lord . . ." (Ephesians 6:1-3). Without this training, a child is
headed for a shameful and disgraceful life. Children who have not grown to
respect and honor their parents can become abusive to their parents and even
violent. The end result is a split family. We need to train our children to
have a proper respect for their parents. This starts when we show the proper
honor and respect to our parents and grandparents.

by Jeremy Sprouse

THE GOSPEL OF MARY

 

Lesson:  "An Extravagant Love"

Text:  John 12:1-10

Aim:  to understand the motivation behind Mary's "extravagant" gift of love.

 

ICEBREAKER QUESTION #1:   As we go around the circle and tell our name, I'd also like to know which of the following statements describes your attitude toward the game today:

 

a.  I'm pulling for the San Francisco 49ers to win;     b.  I'm rooting for the Baltimore Ravens to win it;     c.  I just hope it's a good game;    or,  d.  Game?  What game?

 

ICEBREAKER QUESTION #2:   Companies always plan to unveil their best, most creative commercials of the year on the Super Bowl, and many people look forward to watching them.  How about you?  As we go back around the circle again, I'd like to know:   Do you make it a point to watch the Super Bowl commercials, or do you tune them out? 

 

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:  1.  Even though the average cost of a 30-second spot on this year's Super Bowl is $3.5 million dollars, the last available spot was sold out months ago!   Does that sound to you like an extravagant sum of money to spend on just 30 seconds of air time?  Why, or why not?                     2.   Can you identify any of the companies that usually advertise during the big game?  Based on your memory, what kind of companies usually advertise on the Super Bowl?                  3.   Now, can you remember any of the specific commercials that aired during last year's Super Bowl?  If so, why do you think you remember that specific commercial? 

 

 

What seems like an extravagant sum of money to us may make perfect sense to a large corporation, because they believe the investment is worth it.  In today's conversation we will see that Mary spent what some people considered a wasteful sum of money on an unforgettable gift of love for Jesus.

 

Please turn to the gospel of John  (it is the fourth book of the New Testament), Chapter 12.  READ Verses 1-11.   DISCUSSION QUESTION:  Back in November we considered the story of another dinner party held for Jesus and his disciples in the home of Martha and Mary (see Luke 10:38-42).  In what ways does this story remind you of that one?

 

Possible Answers:  Jesus and his disciples are once again enjoyed the hospitality of their home;  Martha is still in the kitchen serving, while Mary is once again at the feet of Jesus!;   Mary is still being criticized, and Jesus is once again coming to her defense;   Jesus is once again commending Mary's attitude of devotion over more "practical" considerations (this time the objections of Judas).

 

DISCUSSION QUESTION:  One difference between that earlier dinner and this meal is that this dinner takes place after Lazarus, the brother of Martha and Mary, had died and was brought back to life by Jesus.  Why do you suppose John reminds us in Verse 1 of the resurrection of Lazarus?  How does knowing that fact help us better understand what happens in this story?

 

Possible Answers:  It explains why the presence of Lazarus is specifically mentioned in Verse 1;   It may explain why Verse 2 says the dinner "was given in Jesus' honor" – the first meal seems to have been a private affair, while this occasion seems more public;    It provides a motive for Mary's extravagant gesture – she was demonstrating her thankfulness and love;   It explains the curiosity of the large crowd of Jews who had gathered (Verse 9). 

 

DISCUSSION QUESTION:   In Verse 11 we learn that Lazarus had become something of a "tourist attraction"!   Why do you suppose people were so eager to see Lazarus?     

 

DISCUSSION QUESTION:   Do you suppose the crowds just gawked at Lazarus, or do you think they also questioned him?  And if they did, what would you guess they asked Lazarus?

 

Background Note:  Why did the leaders plot to kill Lazarus, also?  As Sadducees they would have been doubly embarrassed by Lazarus:  first, because the example of his experience caused many to believe in Jesus;  second, because they denied the resurrection, and here was a man who had come back from the dead!

 

 

Now let's go back and examine each part of the story in more detail.  READ Verses 1-3 

 

LEADER'S INSIGHT:  A pint of pure nard was worth about a year's wages.  So, when you translate that to today's terms, Mary has just spent around $40,000 to wash the feet of Jesus!   It would be easy to make the case that such a gesture was a little over-the-top, but let's try to make the opposite argument. 

 

DISCUSSION QUESTION:  Mary never had the opportunity to speak up in her own defense, but if she had, what do you think she would say?  How might Mary have defended her action?

 

DISCUSSION QUESTION:  If you had to choose ONE WORD to describe the primary emotion Mary is expressing by her actions here, what word would you choose?   

 

Possible Answers:  Gratitude;  Worship;  Humility;  Faith;  Love.

 

READ Verses 4-6    DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:  1.  How do you suppose Mary felt when she heard Judas criticize her act of devotion to Jesus?  How do you think YOU would feel if you were in her shoes?         2.  When Judas objected that Mary's gift was wasteful and extravagant, his reasoning seemed logical to the other disciples, and they also harshly criticized her (see Mark 14:4).  What does that teach you about listening to harsh or critical comments made about others?

 

READ Verses 7-8   DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:  1.  How do you suppose Mary felt when the Lord bluntly told Judas to "leave her alone!"?                2.  Based on the comments that Jesus makes, what do you think Mary's gift meant to him, and why?

 

LEADER'S INSIGHT:  When Jesus told the disciples that "the poor you will have with you always" he was quoting from the Old Testament (READ Deuteronomy 15:7-11).  The Lord was NOT saying that we should neglect the poor.  He meant instead that Mary would always have the opportunity to help the less fortunate, but she would not be able to honor him much longer, because a week later he would be dead.

 

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:  1.  One of the lessons of this story is that if something is important to us, we should take the opportunity to do it while we can!  What are some actions that you feel should NEVER be put off until later?                        2.  Can you recall a time when you felt moved to express your appreciation to another person, or do something nice for them, and then later you were especially glad that you did?  If so, could you share that experience with our group?

 

SUMMARY STATEMENT:  Mary's "extravagant" gesture was motivated by her love for Jesus and her gratitude to him because he had brought her brother back from the dead.  If we truly appreciate all that Jesus has done for US, then our worship and devotion will not seem a burden, but a privilege!

 

NEXT WEEK our topic of conversation will be "The Women At The Foot of the Cross."  To prepare for that conversation, read John 19:23-27.

 

 

© Dan Williams

El Dorado, Arkansas      

 

2 Peter 3:11 “Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness”

In Deuteronomy 14:12, Israel is told that they are the children of God, that they are a holy people unto God and that the Lord has chosen them to be a peculiar people. We know that Israel of old enjoyed the favor and blessings of God beyond measure. We also know that Israel had the obligation to honor and obey the Lord, conducting themselves in such a way that God would be honored and exalted. Now, fast forward to the New Testament and read, yea study diligently, 2 Peter 2:9. Here we are told that we are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people. Do you see the resemblance between what was said of Israel and what is said of you and I? Just like Israel, we enjoy some marvelous blessings from God (2 Pet. 1:4, Col. 1:12-14, Matt. 6:24-34). It is only reasonable for the Lord to expect you and I to be the kind of people that will bring honor and glory to him (Matt. 5:16).

 

With that thought in mind, what manner of persons should we be? Let me begin by saying that we ought to be people who are determined to do what is right according to God's word whether it be in the spiritual realm or in our everyday secular life (1 Cor. 16:13, Acts 4:19, 5:29, 1 Thess. 5:22, 1 Tim. 5:22, Heb. 10:23, 1 Thess. 3:8). We ought to be people who will never compromise the truth or pervert it in any way (Col.1:6-9, 1 Tim. 4:11-15, 2 John 9). We ought to be people who are dependable, willing to accept our responsibilities (1 Cor. 15:58, 1 Thess. 5:14-22, Eph. 4:21-32, 2 Tim. 2:15, Heb. 10:24-25, Matt. 6:33, 2 Pet. 1:5-11). We ought to be people who are setting an example in commitment, work, giving, prayer, attendance, love for God, each other and our fellowman (1 Tim. 4:12, Mark 12:30, 1 John 4:7-12). We ought to be people who are enthusiastic, letting God have full possession of our life by yielding to him through letting his word fill our heart, mold our thoughts and guide our life (Rom. 12:1, Phil.4:4). What manner of person ought we to be? A most interesting question indeed and one that should command our attention.

 

We are a people for God's possession. There must ever be a difference between us and those of the world (2 Cor. 6:17). We must know and understand that we are either with the Lord or we are against the Lord. There is no middle ground (Matt. 6:24, 12:30).

 

Charles Hicks

 

 

Proverbs 19:24

"The sluggard buries his hand in the dish, But will not even bring it back
to his mouth" (Proverbs 19:24 NASB). There are no limits to the depths of
laziness. Some people are so lazy they are not even willing to exert even a
minimal effort to take care of themselves. In this Proverb, the man isn't
even willing to do the work to take the food from the bowl to his mouth.
This is just as well, Paul says "if anyone is not willing to work, then he
is not to eat, either" (2 Thessalonians 3:10). Laziness is degrading,
unwise, and ungodly. God wants us to put our time to good use.

Jeremy Sprouse

2014

A few weeks ago we turned the corner on a new year. Yep, we've arrived at the year of our Lord, 2013 and only He knows how much of it we'll see or whether we'll see 2014. Musing along these thoughts brought today's editorial lesson into my mind so I'll try and convey my musings to you in an understandable manner.

In order to get you to thinking, let me ask you a question. What do you consider to be the most valuable thing that you possess? Now, I'm speaking of things that pertain to this earth. Would you say to yourself, my health? Or, would you think along the lines of something material such as my house, or my new car? It's my guess that many people would answer with different views as to their most valuable possession. But, I'd like to suggest to you (and everyone else) that the most valuable thing that we have while living on this earth is - "time."

Now, this is just my personal opinion but, I don't believe that most of us know or understand just how valuable this commodity of "time" really is. That we don't realize that everything we have, that we do, our whole earthly existence revolves around "time." Everything we know relates to "time" which is why no one can really grasp "eternity," or timelessness.

In my studies of the Bible I've run across several phrases relating to "time" that I see as usable for our lesson today. Phrases such as; "in the process of time" (several times) which relates to things occurring at their appropriate "times." Also the phrase from Job 7:1 where we read that "man has an appointed time on the earth" and Eccl. 9:12 states that "we don't know how much time" we have appointed to us.

The writer of Psalm 89 says something that I can certainly relate to as the older I get, the faster time seems to go by. He said, "....Remember how short my time is." (Vs 47) Recall when we were young that "time" just seemed to drag by and we couldn't wait to be old enough to do something? I'm not sure at what point it occurred, but it sure seems to me that the clocks began running faster and the months and years seem to fly off the calendars.

Everyone who studies the Bible or has attended a funeral service is probably familiar with verses 1-8 of Ecclesiastes the 3^rd chapter. You know, all of Solomon's teachings on there being a "time" for everything. Well, a few verses after those is one I see that teaches us a great lesson on how valuable "time" is to mankind. If you've never had the occasion to read Eccl. 3:17 before, you won't be able to say that after the next paragraph of this lesson.

That verse reads: "God shall judge the righteous and the wicked: for there is a time there for every purpose and for every work." (Read also 1Cor. 3:13 and Rev. 22:12)

Do you see what I see being told us in the words of that verse? I see that God will judge everybody (righteous and wicked) on how we use our "time." Considering that thought, does it raise your evaluation of "time" to the highest level? It certainly did me. If I'm going to be judged on the basis of the use I make of my "appointed time" here on earth, and I believe in the eternal hereafter, it then behooves me to use my "time" appropriate to where I hope to spend that eternity.

Thinking about the use of our time leads me to believe that what better use can we make of it than to work for the cause of Christ. That we serve others in whatever manner we're able with the purpose and objective of our work being the glory of God (1Cor. 10:31). That others will see Christ in us by what we do in the use of our "time."

Let me close by telling you a little story that I feel illustrates the value of "time." As you read this I hope that it causes you to realize how much others appreciate our sharing a portion of our "time" with them when we ourselves may not realize its value at the time. The fact that you used some of your most valuable commodity on their behalf can have a tremendous effect on their lives.

A man that I'll refer to as Jack had been raised in a small town, had graduated from high school, gone to college, married, moved across the country and was involved in his business career. One evening he received a phone call from his mother who informed him that Mr. Belser, their next door neighbor had passed away. That his funeral was to be held in a few days.

Jack hadn't thought about the old neighbor for many years and even remarked to his mother that he thought Mr. Belser had died several years ago. She said no, and that every time she saw him he asked about Jack and how he was doing. She said he would reminisce about the times Jack had spent on "his side of the fence."

His mother's phone call caused Jack to recall how much Mr. Belser had meant to his life, especially after his father had died. He had taught him carpentry and how to build things, which happened to be the business in which he was now engaged. Yes, the call made him realize just how important Mr. Belser had been in his life. Even though he was very busy at this time, he told his mother that he would come home for the funeral.

He flew back to his home town and, with his mother, attended the funeral. He was glad that he had taken the time to be there as Mr. Belser had no children of his own and most of his friends had already passed away. Before he left to return to his family, he and his mother went next door to the old man's house. It was just as he remembered it being except for one thing - the box. It wasn't on the desk where he had always kept it and was always kept locked. When he asked what was in it, Mr. Belser would only say that "It's the thing I value most." Since it wasn't on the desk, Jack figured that he'd never know what was in it that was so valuable.

About two weeks after returning home, Jack got a notice in the mail to pick up a package at the Post Office. He did so and the first thing he noticed was that it had evidently been wrapped a long time back. The writing was very faded, but he could just make out the return address: Mr. Harold Belser.

He hurriedly opened it and inside was a small, gold box with an envelope attached to it. Inside the envelope was a note with a key taped to it. The note read: "Upon my death, please forward this box and its contents to Jack Bennett. It's the thing I valued most in my life."

Jack took the key and opened the box to find a beautiful gold pocket watch. He opened the cover of the watch and engraved inside were these words: "Jack, thanks for you time! Harold Belser."

I'd like you to read one more phrase regarding "time" and it's found in Rev. 10:6. It's there that "a mighty angel" announces that the earth and all therein it has reached the point "that there should be time no longer." When that point comes, there will be no more time to "do" anything, such as repent or obey the Gospel.

When's a good time to do that? 2Cor. 6:2 says "...Now is the accepted time." The word "now" means this present moment of "time." IE: don't delay because we're not guaranteed another one.

Ron Covey

House for sale 546 Munich Street San Francisco, California

There is a house for sale at 546 Munich Street in San Francisco, California.
It is near public transportation and two parks. It is also just minutes
from the coast. The house is described as a single-family home with two
bedrooms and two bathrooms. You may see a picture of the house with its
listing (http://vanguardsf.com/RESI-403636.php) or drive by the property,
but that's all that you'll get to see. According to the listing, the
"Seller will not provide any interior showings or inspections." It will be
sold "AS IS with no repairs," and no one but the current tenants knows the
condition of the inside of the house.

The house is occupied by "tenant and former owner," but the listing also
advises:" Please do not disturb the occupants who will not be vacating prior
to the sale." To make matters worse, the listing states: "The Buyer assumes
all risks associated with the existing tenancies after close of escrow.
Seller will not transfer any legal action related to any existing
tenancies." According to AOL Real Estate, this statement "means that once
you buy the home of mysterious interiors, you also have the responsibility
of kicking out the tenants!" *

Now who would want to buy a house without looking at its interior and
knowing that the buyer would have to deal with some mysterious tenants?

But WE succumb to the same kind of "listings" frequently.

Satan, the tempter (Matthew 4:3), makes SIN look very appealing, but he
purposefully doesn't disclose all the details about it. He emphasizes the
personal pleasure of engaging in sin, but he doesn't inform the victim that
the pleasure is only temporary (Hebrews 11:25) and that the consequences are
deadly (Romans 6:23).

Observe the tactics of the tempter with his first "listing": see Genesis
3...

The "property" that Satan wanted Eve to "buy" was the forbidden fruit of the
tree of the knowledge of good and evil, concerning which God had commanded
Adam and Eve NOT to eat, "for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely
die" (Genesis 2:17). Satan sought to raise doubts in Eve's mind as to God's
command and His character by telling her: "You will not surely die. For God
knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will
be like God, knowing good and evil" (Genesis 3:4-5).

"So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, that it was pleasant
to the eyes, and a tree desirable to make one wise, she took of its fruit
and ate. She also gave to her husband with her, and he ate" (Genesis 3:6).

What Satan did NOT "list" were the consequences of sin such as shame
(3:7-8), fear (3:10), guilt (3:7-13), hardship (3:16-19), and death
(3:22-24).

Satan uses the SAME kind of "listings" to tempt us to sin (1 John 2:15-16;
James 1:14-15), without including the destructive consequences. Sadly, each
one of us has "bought in" (Romans 3:23).

But God loves us so much that He gave His Son Jesus to die on the cross to
pay the price for our redemption from sin (Ephesians 1:7) and to defeat
Satan (Hebrews 2:14-15).

Jesus will save those who will place their faith and trust in Him (Acts
16:30-31), turn from sin in repentance (Acts 17:30-31), confess Jesus before
men (Romans 10:9-10), and be baptized (immersed) into Christ for the
forgiveness of sin (Acts 2:38). He will continue to cleanse those who
continue to walk in the light of His Word (1 John 1:7).

Buying in on Satan's property is a terrible deal. But God will "buy you
back" (redeem you) if you will only accept the Savior's offer on His terms.

Won't YOU?

David A. Sargent

The Decision of Roe vs. Wade - My Story

 

Close to one year following the shocking Roe vs. Wade decision, the country was seeing the immoral act of an irresponsible nation as they covered their mistakes by depriving the innocent of "life, liberty and pursuit of happiness." While our nation began living in the atrocity of moral decline, the choice of selfishness, now made legal,  would take the life of one created equal by God.

It is always powerful to remember that our present choices have an effect on our life and might even effect the lives of others.

One year after the Roe vs. Wade decision, an 18 year old young lady would make a choice to determine her future and the life of another…she was pregnant. The road ahead as a single mother would be difficult and filled with obstacles. Her experiences would be much different than any other 18 year old because she had to make a choice…a hard choice; what would she do?

The Supreme Court of this land made a decision like hers easier by legally allowing her an "easy way" out. Even further, this decision could at a time where very few, if any, of the people in her life would ever know. The decision was hers.

Would her family support the choice she was going to make?

Would the father of the child support her decision?

Did she know what her child would become?

Did she desire to see her child, even though she would hold him alone?

Those were a few of the powerful questions she would have to face; not once, but every day. The road before her was already seeming difficult and the pressure of a child was weighing heavily on her shoulders.

The world may never know her thoughts or the stress she faced…what would her choice be?

The legal system of this country gave her an easy way out…what would her choice be?

It could be done in such a way that her family would never find out…what would her choice be?

No matter what the decision, her life would be changed forever. To make the decision, she would have to reflect on her values, morals, beliefs and the life of the child growing in her womb.

Her choice was simple…she chose life and I am glad she did.

Thank you mom. I love you.

Your son,

Chris Gallagher, http://www.preacherspen.org 

Matthew 28:18-20

 Matthew 28:18-20 This week we finally had a new sound system installed in our building. This new system is primarily about sound and allowing people to hear better, but it is much more than that. This system allows us to come into the modern world more fully, making available DVD's, CD's and Digital recordings in general as well as posting to the Internet in the future.

I believe it is money well spent as we look for more ways to reach out to our modern world. Now there is always some grumbling when we "modernize". Some folks are bound to hold on to the idea, "the old way of doing it was good enough for our parents, so it should be good enough for us."

Let me assure you that "Modern" is not always a bad word. In fact it is defined as, "relating to, or having the characteristics of the present or most recent period of development," (Webster). I know from experience, that as we age we tend to look at some of the new ideas and trends of our world with skepticism. It's natural for us to do so I think. I personally try my best to hold back some of my natural prejudices and think outside of the box in which I was raised. I'm not always successful, some times my thoughts are based upon "my feelings" or "my likes and dislikes," and to a certain extent that's OK, its how God put us together as humans.

I would suggest though there is a better criteria for deciding whether a new or modern idea is acceptable or not. In his instructions to the early believers Jesus said, "Jesus came and told his disciples, "I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:18-20, NLT)

Here we see that we art to go and make disciples, baptizing and teaching them to obey all of the commandments of God. Going and making disciples are the primary command; teaching about obedience in "ALL" of God's commands is next. So sometimes we need to modernize our thinking as to how to "GO and TEACH," but never about keeping all of the commands of God. We need to think outside of the box in which we were raised and sometimes live, but never compromise the truth of God's Word.

Russ Lawson

What is tongue speaking?

I.  THE CENTRAL QUESTION REGARDING "SPEAKING IN TONGUES" TODAY:   

W

 

hat is the nature of the "tongues" of 1 Corinthians 14?  Are they an unknowable "angelic" language or simply an un-interpreted human one?  Were they a personal possession – a "private prayer language" – or a corporate gift that was being selfishly misused?  Were they a private experience – an emotional "release" – or were tongues a gift that was intended to edify the whole church but instead was being misused by the Corinthians out of personal pride?

 

 

 

II.  INTERPRETIVE KEYS TO UNDERSTANDING THE PASSAGE.

 

 

1. To understand the PROBLEM, look at Paul's SOLUTION:  four times he says they are to "interpret"!

 

q  Verse 5  "unless he interprets, so that the church may be edified"

q  Verse 6  "unless I bring some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or word of instruction"  NOTE that Paul makes a distinction between the METHOD of communication (how they spoke) and the MESSAGE (what they said).  It was possible to bring a revelation or word of instruction while speaking in another language, but such a message wouldn't be useful (or "edifying") unless it was interpreted!

q  Verse 13  "pray that he may interpret what he says" (i.e., the speaker translates)

q  Verse 27  "someone must interpret" (i.e., another person translates)

 

2.  To understand the PROBLEM, look at the CONTEXT:  The theme of the entire section (and indeed, of much of the book!) is the conflict of selfishness vs. love.  Paul argument in chapters 12-14 follows this theme, because the Corinthians were using this miraculous gift without any consideration for the needs of the whole BODY (the church):  they weren't speaking in tongues to edify their brethren, but to satisfy their own pride.

 

 

q  12:12f.  "there should be no division in the BODY, but its parts should have equal concern for each other"

q  13:1-13  Agape / LOVE is "the most excellent way" and superior to miraculous gifts

q  14:1  "Follow the way of LOVE"

q  14:3-4  "strengthening, encouragement, and comfort….EDIFIES the church"

q  14:5  "that the church may be EDIFIED"

 

q  14:6f.  "what GOOD will I be?"

q  14:12  "gifts that BUILD UP the church"

q  14:17  "the other man is NOT EDIFIED"

q  14:19  "five intelligible words TO INSTRUCT OTHERS than ten thousand words in a tongue"

q  14:26   "a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a TONGUE, or an interpretation.   All of these must be done for the STRENGTHENING of the church"

 

q  14:31  "so that everyone may be INSTRUCTED and ENCOURAGED"

 

3.  To understand the PROBLEM, look at the SETTING.    Paul nowhere in this passage says to exercise this gift in private:  the closest he comes to that is in Verse 28, where he says, "If there is no interpreter, the speaker should keep quiet in the church and speak to himself and God."  Even there, however, Paul pictures a congregational setting!  In fact, three times he tells the Corinthians to use this gift in church (Verses 5, 6, 27). 

 

The key to understanding Paul's entire discussion of the spiritual gift of "tongues" in the first century comes at the very beginning of the three-chapter section. 

 

12:7  "Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given FOR THE COMMON GOOD"

 

 

KEY POINT:  The PURPOSE of the gift of "tongues" was to build up the whole church;  the PROBLEM in the Corinthian church was that individuals were misusing that gift out of pride, without regard for the good of their brothers.

 

 

 

III.  EIGHT REASONS WHY I DO NOT BELIEVE GENUINE TONGUE-SPEAKING OCCURS TODAY.

 

 

1. When the Holy Spirit was given on Pentecost (in the only Biblical passage which actually describes tongue-speaking) the word "tongues" clearly has its customary linguistic meaning as recognizable languages (Acts 2:4-12), not emotional gibberish.  Three times the foreigners in the audience who had traveled to Jerusalem marveled that the apostles were speaking in the pilgrims' "own native language" (Acts 2:6, 8, 11) despite the fact that the apostles had not previous learned the foreign languages.  Those who argue that tongue-speaking today is some sort of ecstatic private experience must demonstrate:

 

1. Why the nature of the gift changed from Acts 2 to 1 Corinthians 14;
2. Why those who claim to practice tongue-speaking today are not exercising the gift as it was demonstrated by the apostles at Pentecost.

 

2. The purpose of tongues was to "confirm the word" (Mark 16:17-20);  Hebrews 2:3-4 tells us the word "was confirmed." 1 Corinthians 13:8-10 says tongues were temporary and would end when "perfection comes." In Ephesians 4:7-15 Paul also says the gifts would last until the unity of the faith was established.  James 1:23-25 says the "perfect law that gives freedom" had come (cf. Jude 3; John 16:13;  Matthew 10:19-20). 

 

 

3. In order for a miracle to serve its purpose of confirming the word, it must by definition be beyond normal human experience and irrefutable (Acts 4:16; cf. Luke 11:14-20; John 9-10; Matthew 10:8;  Acts 2:22; 13:10).  Instances of glossolalia, or emotionally-prompted ecstatic utterances, was common ancient pagan cults and has been documented in numerous cultures and non-Christian religions.   [See Psychology Today, August 1972, p. 48-50, 78-79]

 

 

4. None of the other miracles which confirmed the word, such as picking up snakes, drinking deadly poison, healing the sick or raising the dead, are practiced today – only "tongue-speaking."

 

 

5. We read in Acts 8:14-19 that the miraculous measure of the Holy Spirit was transmitted "at the laying on of the APOSTLE'S hands" (cf. Acts 19:6, 2 Timothy 1:6).  According to numerous New Testament passages, there are no individuals today who can possess the qualifications of an apostle (see Acts 1:21-22, 26;  2:42; 2 Corinthians 12:12;  Revelation 21:14).

 

 

6. Paul says that first-century tongues were a sign for unbelievers, while prophecy was a sign for believers (14:22);   modern-day tongue speakers reverse this significance.

 

7. The modern-day "tongue-speaking" movement began in 1900 when a Holiness group became convinced that every Christian must experience the baptism of the Holy Spirit (which they called "the second blessing"), and then decided that THE sign of receiving such a miraculous baptism must be "speaking in tongues" – i.e., the way you can know that you have been given the Holy Spirit is if you speak in an unusual utterance.  In this passage Paul emphasizes that, even in the first century, not every Christian spoke in tongues (12:7-11) and that tongues were a subordinate gift (14:5f.)   Note:  The Corinthians had received every spiritual gift (1:7) but sadly, Paul had to call them "carnal" (3:1).  The mere possession of the gift of tongues in the first century was clearly not a sign of spirituality or maturity.

 

 

8. Many modern-day "tongue-speakers" emphasize an emotional experience, while Paul states that the gifts being exercised in the first-century could and should be under the control of the individual (14:32). 

 

 

Note:  I will affirm one point of contact between the first-century Corinthian Christians who spoke in tongues and twenty-first century "tongue-speaking":  both need to beware of adopting an arrogant attitude of "super-spirituality" and carnal condescension towards those who do not share their practice!   Paul's argument in Chapters 12-14 is clear:  genuine spirituality does not produce pride, and congregational confusion, and division.

 

At the same time, Paul's larger message in 1 Corinthians 12-14 about the supremacy of "love" applies to me, and to those who share my convictions, as well.  Even though I may disagree with the theology of those who believe they are "speaking in tongues" today in the same manner as the Christians in the first century, I do not have the right to ridicule or scorn any fellow-believer.  I must disagree without demeaning, and when someone is sincerely wrong, I should "speak the truth in love" (Ephesians 4:15).

 

 

 

IV. EIGHT THINGS I DO BELIEVE ABOUT MIRACLES & THE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT TODAY

 

 

q  I believe every Christian is "Spirit-filled" if he or she has been born again of the water and the Spirit (John 3:3) and is allowing the Holy Spirit to work in his or her life (Galatians 5:16-18, 25) to bring forth His "fruit" (Galatians 5:22-23). 

 

q  I believe I am preaching the "full gospel" whenever I preach the Cross of Christ  (1 Corinthians 2:2;  John 16:13-14).

 

q  I believe our mighty and sovereign God is able to work in any way He wishes, so long as it is consistent with His own nature and revealed Word.

 

q  In the present age, I believe His Spirit chooses to work through His written and proclaimed Word (Romans 1:16; 10:14-17) which was confirmed by the apostles.

 

q  I strongly believe the Holy Spirit continues to exercise a personal ministry in us and through us today (Romans 8).

 

q  I do believe in prayer requests for healing for those who are sick (James 5:14-15);  I do not believe in prayer demands (Philippians 4:6; 2 Corinthians 12:7-9), since in His superior wisdom God may have higher, better plans for my life (Matthew 26:39-42).  In addition, I believe our God is able to work both through divine power and through the medical processes He created (James 5:14; 1 Timothy 5:23).

 

q  I do not believe the New Testament indicates that the apostolic gifts (see Mark 16:17-28; 2 Corinthians 12:12) are available to present-day disciples. 

 

q  I do believe the apostles' doctrine continues to be our authoritative, sufficient guide (Acts 2:42, 2 Timothy 3:16-17) and their Spirit-inspired Word remains able to save us (1 Peter 1:23; James 1:21; Hebrews 4:13) today and until the end of time.

 

 

 

-- Dan Williams, El Dorado, Arkansas

Winter storm watch

At the bottom of my computer screen is a number that changes throughout the day; it's a live-temperature reading that tells me how warm or cold it is outside. Today that number is set in a background of orange, an indication that there is a weather alert I should know about. When I click on it I'm told we're under a winter storm watch. Tomorrow could bring two or three inches of snow.

 

The emphasis is on the word "could". A "watch" means that conditions are favorable to this weather event happening. As we all know, however, conditions change. If the alert told me of a storm "warning", the situation is more serious for the storm has actually developed and is heading my way.

 

Folks in my region are likely going to pay more attention to today's storm watch. Last week at this time we were told of approaching snow. I confess to having the attitude of "Yeah, right. We've heard this story before." I was going to believe a snow storm when I actually saw it.

 

I became a believer. Thursday afternoon the snow fell with unusual intensity. Within two or three hours we had four to five inches on the ground and driving became a nightmare. Traffic on the Interstate ground to a halt as commuters who left work early rushed to get home. Cars were stranded everywhere and stories were plentiful about hardships encountered.

 

Last week's experience has made many of us here in the Tri-Cities Region more likely to prepare for what may come our way tomorrow. Yes, it's only a watch, but we won't be caught unprepared.

 

Lot, the nephew of Abraham, was given a warning (not a watch) of disaster at hand. One of the angels whose mission was to rescue Lot said this: "For we will destroy this place, because the outcry against them has grown great before the face of the Lord, and the Lord has sent us to destroy it" (Genesis 19:13).

 

Lot believed this warning, but he received a different reaction from his sons- in-law: "... But to his sons-in-law he seemed to be joking" (Genesis 19:14). Needless to say, when the conflagration came upon Sodom, only Lot and his two daughters survived. Unbelievers did not.

 

Peter warns us of an event in the future that will eclipse any disaster earth has known: "But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up" (2 Peter 3:10). Sodom's destruction will seem like a picnic in the park compared to this event.

 

Here then is the big question: Do we believe Peter's warning? Or do we respond similarly to those sons-in-law of Lot, who scoffed at the idea of fire and brimstone raining down upon them? Would it make any difference if we believed or not?

 

One word of hope is given by Peter in the previous chapter: "Then the Lord knows how to deliver the godly ..." (2 Peter 2:9). The Lord knew how to deliver Lot from Sodom's destruction; He knew how to spare Noah from the flood that covered the entire earth. He knows how to save those of us who will put our trust in Him and in His Son.

 

The warnings have been posted. Will we take them seriously?

 

Timothy D. Hall