1 Corinthians 15:46 says,”The spiritual did not come first, but the natural, and after that the spiritual.”

Paul was teaching the Corinthians that spiritual truths or events mirror the natural ones. One example of this is when Jesus taught using everyday examples [parables] to teach spiritual truth. Additionally, God permits circumstances to occur so that His mighty hand and will can be revealed to the world.

Two Circumstances 

Luke 17:11-19 (Amp) says,” “While Jesus was on the way to Jerusalem, He was passing [along the border] between Samaria and Galilee. As He entered a village, He was met by ten lepers who stood at a distance; and they raised their voices and called out, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” When He saw them, He said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were [miraculously] healed and made clean. One of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, glorifying and praising and honoring God with a loud voice; and he lay face downward at Jesus’ feet, thanking Him [over and over]. He was a Samaritan. Then Jesus asked, “Were not ten [of you] cleansed? Where are the [other] nine? Was there no one found to return and to give thanks and praise to God, except this foreigner?” Jesus said to him, “Get up and go [on your way]. Your faith [your personal trust in Me and your confidence in God’s power] has restored you to health.”

Matthew 8:1-4 says, “When Jesus came down from the mountainside, large crowds followed him. A man with leprosy came and knelt before him and said, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.” Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” Immediately he was cleansed of his leprosy. Then Jesus said to him, “See that you don’t tell anyone. But go, show yourself to the priest and offer the gift Moses commanded, as a testimony [evidence] to them.”

It is not certain if these two accounts are of the same event, nonetheless they are connected. 

The book of Leviticus records the many different laws and ordinances that the nation of Israel were required to follow. One of the requirements for lepers [diseases of the skin] is found in Leviticus 13:45-47 which says, “Anyone with such a defiling disease must wear torn clothes, let their hair be unkempt, cover the lower part of their face and cry out, ‘Unclean! Unclean!’ As long as they have the disease they remain unclean. They must live alone; they must live outside the camp.”

In Matthew’s record, Jesus, like the father of the prodigal, broke Levitical law. Jesus, by touching the leper, was considered “unclean” according to the Levitical law. 

In the story documented by Luke, there were 10 men with leprosy who, by Levitical law, were unclean. They were exiled from their community and had to go about covered in old tattered clothing while yelling “unclean!”. 

These 10 men see Jesus as He is coming into town, from a distance, these men called out. They yelled “MASTER, HAVE MERCY ON US!” 

Jesus instructed the 10 men to go see the priests as is required by the levitical law. As they were traveling to see the priests, they were miraculously healed! 

One of the men who were healed, noticed the healing and turned back. How far did he travel before turning back? The implication in this story was that the healing was instant and Jesus was still close by. 

The one man was glorifying, praising and giving the glory for what happened to Jesus with a loud voice. The man worshiped (laying prostrate) at the feet of Jesus. 

Observations

By healing the lepers, Jesus revealed the glory, the will and hand of God. 

1. The man who worshiped at the feet of Jesus was a Samaritan. 

2. Samaritans and Jews looked down on each other with disdain. 

3 Samaritans and Jews would go out of their way to avoid each other at any cost.

4. Samaritans were not considered part of the Jewish nation and were not granted participation in the covenant with God. 

Luke noted that a Samaritan was one of the ten who demonstrated faith in Christ and were healed. The remaining nine men, likely Jewish, never gave thanks, praise or glory to Jesus for the healing they had received.

Spiritual truths in this story.

Like the parables that Jesus used to teach spiritual truths, this story has the same characteristics. 

The leper, who is exiled from his community, is like the man who is separated from God and His kingdom because of sin.  

Leprosy caused these men to be “unclean” in the eyes of their community. Sin causes man to be “unclean” in the eyes of God.

The disease of leprosy, if left unchecked, will ravage the body and lead to a cruel death. Like leprosy, sin, if left unchecked, ravages the soul of man which leads to a cruel death.

Like the Samaritans, as Gentiles we are not part of the covenant made between God and Israel. 

Like the Samaritan who was healed, grace has been given to sinful man making it possible to be redeemed.  

In both recorded stories, the leper(s) came to Jesus asking for healing and restoration and in both stories they were restored. When a sinful man cries out to Jesus “Have Mercy” and “Make me clean”, Jesus heals and restores the man. “Man” is made “clean” by the touch of Jesus and is no longer an exile. 

The Testimony

In both records the lepers were told to “go to the priest” and present the offering as a testimony and to give evidence that they were “CLEAN!”

As Christians, those who have been “restored and healed” from sin by Jesus, we too must go and tell. We must give our testimony about how we were made clean and freed from eternal exile by Jesus’s touch. 

As men and women who have placed our trust in Jesus, we must lay on our face at the feet of Jesus, giving Him true praise, honor and glory for what He has done for us.

Revelation 12:10-11(Amp) says,”Then I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, “Now the salvation, and the power, and the kingdom (dominion, reign) of our God, and the authority of His Christ have come; for the accuser of our [believing] brothers and sisters [Satan] has been thrown down [at last], he [Satan] who accuses them and keeps bringing charges [of sinful behavior] against them before our God day and night.  And they overcame and conquered him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, for they did not love their life and renounce their faith even when faced with death.” 

One nation under God

While our Pledge of Allegiance says, “One nation under God”, this nation and many of its citizens do not act like they are submitted to God or His ways. This is demonstrated by open acts of violence, rampant sin of all kinds and the blatant disregard for life or godliness.

Many Americans today believe they are christians and they believe America is a christian nation but the evidence does not support such claims.

While many of our founding fathers lived by christian principles, we cannot say the same about our leaders today. While there are exceptions to this statement,  their numbers rare few . 

Many people believe they are christians because they “go to church”, “believe in God” or were baptized when they were babies but being a christian in not about ritual or passing thought. Chritians are those individuals who accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.  

Religion versus Relationship

After praying for my aunt before her recent surgery, I apologized to the nurse anesthetist for delaying her in taking my aunt into the OR… She said it was okay because “she was very religious”. 

The word religious is defined as “relating to, or devoted to religious beliefs or observances”. While saying “I am religious” sounds nice, GOD wants more than beliefs and observances, God wants a relationship with each of us.

I have been called “religious” by many people over the years which gives me the opportunity to explain, “I am not religious, I have a relationship with Jesus Christ”. My relationship with Christ is based on faith in Jesus and the work accomplished by His death on the cross for me. My faith is built on bible centered teachings but I do not hold to repetitive observances or rituals. 

A Relationship requires active participation from those in the relationship. Understanding our role and our willingness to communicate is necessary to make a relationship work in our everyday lives. While we have figured out how to relate to friends and with family, many still run from a relationship with God. 

When  asked about having a relationship with God and Jesus,  many have have said-

“Why would God want me? I am not good enough.”

“I need to clean myself up first.”

“What do I have to offer?”

“I know I cannot be forgiven.”

“Why should I follow Jesus?” 

While this list can go on and on, it reveals the reality that many DO NOT KNOW much about God, His word or His will. This leads to the most important question “why does the common man not know that God loves them and wants to be active in their lives?” 

Another thought to consider is this, a person’s religion of choice could be keeping them ignorant (in the dark) about having an active relationship with God. 

“I need to clean up my act first.” 

Many “feel” or believe they must “clean up their act” before God will have a relationship with them. This  is FAR FROM THE TRUTH for two reasons:

1. Man will never be able to “clean up their act’ enough on their own to be able to have a relationship with God.

Ephesians 2:8-9 (Amp) says, “For it is by grace [God’s remarkable compassion and favor drawing you to Christ] that you have been saved [actually delivered from judgment and given eternal life] through faith. And this [salvation] is not of yourselves [not through your own effort], but it is the [undeserved, gracious] gift of God; 9 not as a result of [your] works [nor your attempts to keep the Law], so that no one will [be able to] boast or take credit in any way [for his salvation].”

2. It was God’s plan, from the beginning of time, to have a relationship with man. 

Ephesians 1:3-10 says, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. In him [Jesus] we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.”

“I have nothing of value to offer”

Another claim which has zero reality in it is “I have nothing to offer”. Every one of us has a skill or talent which can be used to further the Kingdom of God. The real truth is that as a member of the body of Christ, you are important no matter how big or small you think you are. 

1Cor 12;12-20 says, ”For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit. For the body does not consist of one member but of many. If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would be the sense of hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose. If all were a single member, where would the body be?  As it is, there are many parts, yet one body.”

Your ability to serve in the body of Christ is only limited by your own imagination. While you come to the body with “natural skills”, your spiritual understanding or ”skills” are developed by mentoring and discipleship (teaching the ways of Christ). These new skills are honed over the span of a lifetime. 

Throughout time God has spoken to man. 

• God’s relationship with Adam was such that Adam knew the sound God made walking through the garden(Gen 3:8). 
• God spoke to Moses face to face as a man speaks to a friend. (Exodus 33:11). 
• God spoke to Abraham directing him to a new land (Genesis 12:1). 
• God spoke to Noah to build the ark to save his family and the animals from the flood (Genesis 6:13-22).

In addition to these men, God has spoken to prophets, kings and shepherds in order for his plan to be revealed and moved forward. 

During the time of Christ’s ministry, Jesus said, “For I have not spoken on my own authority, but the Father who sent me has himself given me a commandment—what to say and what to speak. And I know that his commandment is eternal life. What I say, therefore, I say as the Father has told me.” (John 12:49-50) Jesus spent time communicating (praying) with the Father in heaven and he was told what to say. 

Additionally, Jesus only did what He saw His Father doing as well. John 5:19 says,” So Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of his own accord, but only what he sees the Father doing. For whatever the Father does, that the Son does likewise.”

God continued to speak to man after Jesus ascended into Heaven. Jesus spoke to Saul, aka Paul, on the road to Damascus. 

Acts 9:3-5 says, “Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. And falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” And he said, “Who are you, Lord?” And he said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.” 

God went on to speak with Ananias saying, “And the Lord said to him, “Rise and go to the street called Straight, and at the house of Judas look for a man of Tarsus named Saul, for behold, he is praying, and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight.” But Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints at Jerusalem. And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on your name.” But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel.” (Acts 9:13-16)

God is the same yesterday, today and forever, God does not change. That being said, if God spoke to all these men, and many others, He will speak to you as well. God speaks to this writer in an audible voice, in prayer, through music and through the Word of God on a regular basis. 

For a relationship with God and Jesus to be successful, it is paramount that the child of God is taught to listen for God’s voice. John 10:27-28 says, “ My sheep [believers] listen to my [Jesus] voice; I know them, and they follow me.  I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. 

“I cannot be forgiven for what I have done.”

 

This is truly one of the biggest lies of the devil and it is time to STOP CHOOSING TO BELIEVE THIS LIE!!

Isaiah 43:25 (Amp) says, ”I, only I, am He who wipes out your transgressions for My own sake, And I will not remember your sins.”

1 John 1:9 (Amp) says,”  If we [freely] admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just [true to His own nature and promises], and will forgive our sins and cleanse us continually from all unrighteousness [our wrongdoing, everything not in conformity with His will and purpose].” 

Ephesians 1:7-8a (Amp) says, “ In Him we have redemption [that is, our deliverance and salvation] through His blood, [which paid the penalty for our sin and resulted in] the forgiveness and complete pardon of our sin, in accordance with the riches of His grace which He lavished on us. 

 “Why should I follow Jesus?”

The word “follow” is defined as “to engage in as a calling, way of life or be guided by”.

The real question that is being asked by many is “why should I lead a life guided by Jesus?”

I can only answer this question with a question… Is your current life, a life focused on your wants and needs, so great that you are willing to live a life separate from the love of God and all that He has prepared for you? 

Truth be told YOU were created in the image of God (Genesis 1:26) so that God could have an individual relationship with you. Not a relationship that requires works of penance, in the hopes you will be looked upon favorably, but one of a father and child. The God of Christianity is the only one that was executed in the place of His creation so that we would be forgiven of all the evil we will do or have done. The God of creation has made forgiveness possible through the death and resurrection of Jesus, which is there for the asking. Do not allow “religion” to keep you from a relationship with The Father or Jesus. 

Man’s abuse of Power

Throughout church history we have seen how “religion” has been used to control people. From chaining bible to pulpits and doing the services in latin (which is not spoken as a first language by any culture or people, all for the purpose of limiting man’s interactions with God while maintaining control. 

Throughout church history we have seen God raise up men to reveal the truth in the face of religious tyranny, men like Jan Hus, Martin Luther, Jonathan Wycliffe and Jonathan Tyndale, just to name a few.

Martin Luther was  a catholic priest, who was hunted by the Catholic church as a heretic for teaching that man can do nothing to achieve salvation but salvation from sin is by divine grace and through faith. 

Ephesians 2:8-9 (Amp) says, “For it is by grace [God’s remarkable compassion and favor drawing you to Christ] that you have been saved [actually delivered from judgment and given eternal life] through faith. And this [salvation] is not of yourselves [not through your own effort], but it is the [undeserved, gracious] gift of God; not as a result of [your] works [nor your attempts to keep the Law], so that no one will [be able to] boast or take credit in any way [for his salvation].” 

Unlike some, Luther was not burned at the stake because the German government would not permit it. He did end up dying peacefully in the town of birth on February 18, 1546. Luther did acquire enemies in the church of his day because of his teaching.

From the account by Justus Jonas it states:

“Jonas wished to give a detailed account of Luther’s passing in order to counter false rumors that he knew would be spread (and indeed later were!) by Luther’s Roman Catholic opponents.  Among these rumors was that Luther had died suddenly or in his sleep.  In the sixteenth century it was believed that if a person was wicked then they would die suddenly.  This meant that the person would not have time to confess their sins because the Devil would suddenly come upon him and drag his soul to hell.  Likewise, Roman Catholics also later circulated the claim that Luther had died in a state of terror, believing he would be eternally condemned.  On the contrary, Jonas recorded that Luther’s last hours were lucid and conscious.  He confessed his sins and affirmed his faith in Christ, along with everything else that he had taught”.

The Death of Luther

Jan Hus, a priest who spoke against purgatory, indulgences (traditions not supported by scripture) and rampant sin, after being promised of safe passage to and from the Council of Constance, was burned at the stake as a heretic on July 6, 1415 by the church authorities. 

https://www.christianity.com/church/church-history/timeline/1201-1500/the-tragic-trial-and-death-of-jan-hus-11633059.html

“John Wycliffe was the most famous priest of his day. His learning was immense. He had been a leading scholar at Oxford and a chaplain to the King of England. More to the point, he spoke out boldly against the errors of the popes, the organizational hierarchy of the Roman Church, and the corruption of the clergy in his day. He criticized not only the organization of the medieval church but its theology as well and argued for a return to the Scriptures. Pastors should live lives of simplicity and holiness, he taught, shepherding their flocks (people)–not plundering them. 

Wycliffe reasoned that they must have the Word of God in their own language. Under his direction, the Bible was translated into English for the first time, although the job was not completed by his associates until 1395, eleven years after his death. Repeatedly condemned and burned by church authorities, copies of Wycliffe’s Bible continued in use for over a century, until printed Bibles took their place. This work greatly influenced William Tyndale who made the first printed translation of the New Testament into English.”

Jonathan Wycliffe died on December 31, 1384 after suffering a stroke that left him paralysed and unable to speak. The church of his day, out of fear of the people, did not excommunicate but buried him on holy ground. 

30 years after Wycliffe’s death, the Council of  Constance, those who condemned and burned Jan Hus at the stake, in their ongoing anger towards Wycliffe, exhumed his body and burned the bones. 

https://www.christianity.com/church/church-history/timeline/1201-1500/john-wycliffe-on-his-death-bed-11629868.html

Jonathan Tyndale, born in 1494, received his Master’s from Oxford University and was ordained. Tyndale witnessed church corruption, like was committed by the Sadducees and Pharisees during the times of Christ, when rules were used to extract money from the members in the church. One example was the selling of “indulgences” by clergy with claims that the purchased “document” would be required to get a lost family soul out of purgatory. 

Tyndale believed that every man should have a bible in his own language just like Wycliffe. Throughout Europe it was illegal to read a bible in their own native language. The English law called “The Constitutions of Oxford” forbid the reading or translation of the bible into english.  

Tyndale began teaching the gospel of Christ, preaching salvation by faith and translating the New Testament into English despite what the law stated.  Additionally he frequently spoke out against the errors in the as well as calling out the Pope. 

In the summer of 1536, after spending 18 month in prison, he was charged with Heresy. He was defrocked and excommunicated from the church after testimony by three well paid witnesses who were “doctors of theology” 

On October 6, 1536, Tyndale was strangled and burned at the stake, condemned as a heretic. 

These types of abuses have been seen by leaders like the Pharisees in Jesus time as well as by priests, pastors and Popes all the way to today. Teachings and “promises” borne out of cherry picking the word of God for financial gain and control continue to bring error in the church. 

It is not the intent of the writer, who was raised in the Roman Catholic faith, to focus only on one denomination. It is his intent to focus on how man will use “religion” to control people. 

We have seen denominations teach “women are to remain silent”  while others teach that women can’t wear pants. Some go so far to say music must be sung acapella because Jesus did not talk about musical instruments. We have seen some teach “if you give your $1000 seed offerings God will________” while leaving many in the church penniless wondering why God did not answer their prayers. One last example of erroneous teaching is the teaching about the three levels of heaven where entering into this highest level requires specific experiences. 

An example of how man will use the church for power and personal gain was witnessed in July of 2022 when a New York pastor was robbed of a MILLION DOLLARS worth of jewelry while livestreaming a church service.

https://www.cnn.com/2022/07/25/us/brooklyn-pastor-robbery/index.html

No one church or church leader should have this level of authority or power over people. No denomination, old or new, has a corner on the market of truth and no denomination is above another because of gifts, miracles or money. 

Some may ask “how this all could possibly have happened?”, all the mentioned teachings or rules came from improper instruction, poor understanding or selfish motives. 

Pastors and priests, since the days of Peter, have had one requirement to fulfill. John 21:15-17 says “When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, 

“Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?”

“Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”

Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”

He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.”

Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”

The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”

Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep.”

It is time for church leaders, whether pastor or priest, to start “feeding the sheep” and stop “feeding on the sheep.”

Cast off the chains

Within God’s word you will see a standard and a way of behavior that all christains are to follow: to be imitators of His son Jesus, to love your neighbor as yourself to forgive as you have been forgiven, to go into the world and share the story of Jesus’s life changing love.  

Throw off the chains of “religion” and seek God while he may be found.  Hebrews 12:1-2 tells us, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses[ believes past and present as our example in life], let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Paul tells us “Copy me, my brothers, as I copy Christ himself”. (1 Corinthians 11:1 JBP)

Find a man of God that will promote YOUR faith and growth which is the way Jesus meant it to be. In Ephesian 4:11-14 it says, “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming.

Learn to read and study God’s word, do not just believe because someone said it was true. Truth does not contradict the word of God and God, through His Spirit, will reveal the truth to you. 

Jesus says this about the Holy spirit of God, “But when He, the Spirit of Truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth [full and complete truth]. For He will not speak on His own initiative, but He [Holy Spirit] will speak whatever He hears [from the Father—the message regarding the Son], and He [Holy Spirit] will disclose to you what is to come [in the future]. 14 He will glorify and honor Me, because He (the Holy Spirit) will take from what is Mine and will disclose it to you. 15 All things that the Father has are Mine. Because of this I said that He [the Spirit] will take from what is Mine and will reveal it to you.

In Act 17:10-11 says, “As soon as it was night, the believers sent Paul and Silas away to Berea. On arriving there, they went to the Jewish synagogue. 11 Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.

2 Tim 2:15 (Amp) says,” Study and do your best to present yourself to God approved, a workman [tested by trial] who has no reason to be ashamed, accurately handling and skillfully teaching the word of truth. 

As you read, study and are mentored, you will become what Paul called himself and his fellow workers. 

1 Thes 2:3-5 says, “For the appeal we make does not spring from error or impure motives, nor are we trying to trick you. On the contrary, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please people but God, who tests our hearts. You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed—God is our witness.  

Seek out God while He may still be found!

Call on the name of Jesus!

Be found walking the life of Christ, taking the message of His sacrifice and saving grace, wherever you go. 

Forgive as you have been forgiven!

Love as you have been loved by the Father. 

Cling to a relationship with the Father who loves you and throw off the chains that enslave you to “religion”. 

The Journey

Matthew 7:13-14 (Amp) says, “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad and easy to travel is the path that leads the way to destruction and eternal loss, and there are many who enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow and difficult to travel is the path that leads the way to [everlasting] life, and there are few who find it.”

I am not certain why many bible teachers today have forgotten this.  

Why did Jesus decide to “go down this path” in the first place?

 

The christian walk is not an easy walk. First we had to come to grips with ourselves that we were bound for destruction without a savior then, once we accepted Christ, many changes were going to occur. Some changes were immediate while some changes will take a lifetime. 

Counting the Costs of Serving Christ

Luke 14:25-27,33 (Amp) says, “Now large crowds were going along with Jesus; and He turned and said to them, “If anyone comes to Me, and does not hate [to love less than me] his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life [in the sense of indifference to or relative disregard for them in comparison with his attitude toward God]—he cannot be My disciple. Whoever does not carry his own cross [expressing a willingness to endure whatever may come] and follow after Me [believing in Me, conforming to My example in living and, if need be, suffering or perhaps dying because of faith in Me] cannot be My disciple. So then, none of you can be My disciple who does not [carefully consider the cost and then for My sake] give up [his focus of obtaining or holding] all his own possessions.”

We cannot look to follow Jesus or ask anyone to walk this path without first understanding that there is a price to pay to live this way of life. 

John 15:18-19 says, “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.” 

The world hates righteousness and by choosing to live holy lives we have become a target for hatred as well. 

Matthew 5:11-12 (Amp) says, “Blessed [morally courageous and spiritually alive with life-joy in God’s goodness] are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil things against you because of [your association with] Me. Be glad and exceedingly joyful, for your reward in heaven is great [absolutely inexhaustible]; for in this same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”

As we walk out our lives in front of the world we will be ridiculed and insulted. In many countries of this world, when someone chooses to follow Jesus, their families reject them and they are also rejected by their communities. In many cases, their very lives could be at jeopardy. 

In the time of Christ, there were two classes of people which can be simply defined as the “rich” and the “poor”. While a two tiered economic structure is not heard of in many countries today, it is present in many, if not most, third world countries. That being said, what still exists in all areas of life are possessions which can become idols in the lives for those who choose to cling to them.  

Matthew 19:17-24 says, ”Just then a man came up to Jesus and asked, “Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?” “Why do you ask me about what is good?” Jesus replied. “There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, keep the commandments.” “Which ones?” he inquired. Jesus replied, “‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, honor your father and mother,’and ‘love your neighbor as yourself.” “All these I have kept,” the young man said. “What do I still lack?” Jesus answered, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth. Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly I tell you, it is hard for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the  kingdom of God.” 

 

2 Cor 9:6-8 says,”Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” 

Paul wrote this to the Corinthians regarding giving (offerings and/or tithes) and the attitude in which it is given. A result of being a cheerful giver is that you will have all you NEED and the giver will continue to abound in good works. One example to consider is the story of feeding the 5000. All that they (disciples) had were two loaves and five fish but in the hands of Jesus the multitude was fed with leftovers and they continued the work of Christ. (Matthew 14:17-21)

Matthew 6:24 (Amp) says,” No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon [money, possessions, fame, status, or whatever is valued more than the Lord].”

Do not allow possession or position, whether at work or in the public eye, to become the master in your life. While we live in this world we must decide who we will service at any cost. Consider this, the prodigal had all the friends and influence he could have ever wanted until his money (possession, fame and status) ran out, then he was cast into the street. 

Matthew 6:19:21-21 (Amp) says, ”Do not store up for yourselves [material] treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.  But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in and steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart [your wishes, your desires; that on which your life centers] will be also.”

There is a hideous undertow that is occurring in the western church today. Many are being convinced to seek out material treasures under the guise of “then you can help so many” but this is not consistent with what we read in Matthew 6.

The song “Rose Garden” by Lynn Anderson was popular when I was ten years old and at the beginning of the song it says “I never promised you a rose garden, along with the sunshine there’s gotta be a little rain sometime.. ”  While this is a lyric from a fifty year old secular song, the truth of it still applies today.

John 16:33 (Amp) says, “In the world you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous [be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy]; I have overcome the world.” [My conquest is accomplished, My victory abiding.]”

Philippians 1:29-30 (Amp) says, “For you have been granted [the privilege] for Christ’s sake, not only to believe and confidently trust in Him, but also to suffer for His sake, [and so you are] experiencing the same [kind of] conflict which you saw me endure, and which you hear to be mine now.

Many say, “I do not understand why God has allowed this to happen to me!” Rest assured that tribulation, persecution and suffering have their place in the life of the christian. 

Romans 5:1-5 (Amp) says, “ Therefore, since we have been justified [that is, acquitted of sin, declared blameless before God] by faith, [let us grasp the fact that] we have peace with God [and the joy of reconciliation with Him] through our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed). Through Him we also have access by faith into this [remarkable state of] grace in which we [firmly and safely and securely] stand. Let us rejoice in our hope and the confident assurance of [experiencing and enjoying] the glory of [our great] God [the manifestation of His excellence and power]. And not only this, but [with joy] let us exult in our sufferings and rejoice in our hardships, knowing that hardship (distress, pressure, trouble) produces patient endurance; and endurance, proven character (spiritual maturity); and proven character, hope and confident assurance [of eternal salvation]. Such hope [in God’s promises] never disappoints us, because God’s love has been abundantly poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” 

2 Timothy 1:8-13 (Amp) says, “So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord or about me His prisoner, but with me take your share of suffering for the gospel [continue to preach regardless of the circumstances], in accordance with the power of God [for His power is invincible], for He delivered us and saved us and called us with a holy calling [a calling that leads to a consecrated life—a life set apart—a life of purpose], not because of our works [or because of any personal merit—we could do nothing to earn this], but because of His own purpose and grace [His amazing, undeserved favor] which was granted to us in Christ Jesus before the world began [eternal ages ago], but now [that extraordinary purpose and grace] has been fully disclosed and realized by us through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus who [through His incarnation and earthly ministry] abolished death [making it null and void] and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, for which I was appointed a preacher and an apostle and a teacher [of this good news regarding salvation]. This is why I suffer as I do. Still, I am not ashamed; for I know Him [and I am personally acquainted with Him] whom I have believed [with absolute trust and confidence in Him and in the truth of His deity], and I am persuaded [beyond any doubt] that He is able to guard that which I have entrusted to Him until that day [when I stand before Him]. Keep and follow the pattern of sound teaching (doctrine) which you have heard from me, in the faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. “

Do not be fooled by those, prominent or obscure, who would tell you that “God would not allow suffering to come to you”. God has known every event that has happened, is happening and will happen in our future. As children of God, we realize that everything that happens has been permitted to occur and that it has happened for a reason. In the old testament story of Joseph, he suffered when his brothers sold him into slavery but if this had not happened, Joseph would not have been in the place to be advanced by the king which would have cause death and destruction to Israel and his family. 

The Christian life is an uphill climb towards heaven and IT IS NOT MEANT TO BE EASY. If it were easy, everyone would do it without thinking. The christian life requires deep introspection and should not be taken lightly because it will cost you everything in this world.

Paul spoke about the cost of following Jesus. He chose to give up his position, his title, his claims of righteousness according to the Law all to serve Jesus. (Phil 3:4-6) 

Paul went on to say this, “But whatever former things were gains to me [as I thought then], these things [once regarded as advancements in merit] I have come to consider as loss [absolutely worthless] for the sake of Christ [and the purpose which He has given my life]. But more than that, I count everything as loss compared to the priceless privilege and supreme advantage of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord [and of growing more deeply and thoroughly acquainted with Him—a joy unequaled]. For His sake I have lost everything, and I consider it all garbage, so that I may gain Christ, and may be found in Him [believing and relying on Him], not having any righteousness of my own derived from [my obedience to] the Law and its rituals, but [possessing] that [genuine righteousness] which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith. (Phil 3:7-9)

Once you have counted the cost of following Jesus and have decided to follow, grab the plow and don’t look back! (Luke 9:26) 

Remember, in John 16:33 (Amp) it says, “In the world you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous [be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy]; I have overcome the world.” [My conquest is accomplished, My victory abiding.]

There is a question that many believe we should never ask. It is a one word question and it is “why?”. When a child of God asks “why”, it is because they seek understanding. 

Faith, forgiveness, salvation, repentance, giving, communion and baptism (just to name a few) are topics that we can ask “why?” about and all of these topics require understanding and to be done with a proper attitude. 

Do you understand what each of these mean? How or when do they occur? Why do you practice them? And what attitude should you have when doing them?

Faith

Hebrews 11:1-2 says, “Now faith is the assurance (title deed, confirmation) of things hoped for (divinely guaranteed), and the evidence of things not seen [the conviction of their reality—faith comprehends as fact what cannot be experienced by the physical senses]. For by this [kind of] faith the men of old gained [divine] approval.”

Faith is trusting in what God has promised no matter what is happening around us. (2 Corinthians 5:7)

Acts 27 tells about the last travels of Paul when he was being taken to Rome for trial. Paul warned the Romans, “Men, I can see that our voyage is going to be disastrous and bring great loss to ship and cargo, and to our own lives also.” (v10). Yet the Romans proceeded anyway. 

After sailing headlong into a massive storm lasting weeks, holding the ship together with ropes, tossing cargo and ships gear over the side, Pauls says, ”But now I urge you to keep up your courage, because not one of you will be lost; only the ship will be destroyed. Last night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve stood beside me and said, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand trial before Caesar; and God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you.’ So keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me. Nevertheless, we must run aground on some island.” (v22-26)

The ship did smash on the rocks but all those on the ship were saved. Paul held to the promise God gave by his faith.

Reading the Word of God will stir your soul toward faith, but faith takes hold as the Word of God is heard. Romans 10:17 says, “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.”

Faith is stimulated to grow when actions are applied to our beliefs. 

James 2:14-17 says, ”What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”

Forgiveness

Forgiveness is defined as a “release from the guilt or penalty of an offense”.  How you address the topic of forgiveness will impact your walk.

We have all been in a situation(s), whether actual or perceived, where we feel betrayed, attacked, oppressed or offended. This could have been done by family, friends or strangers. That being said, you must address it anyway.  

Many have said to me over the years , “I just cannot forgive them for ______”,  to which I always reply, “it is not that you cannot forgive. You CHOOSE not forgive.”

Isaiah 43:25 says, “I, I am he  who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins.” 

If God forgave maBe certain that your heart or attitude is right before you present your gift.

n for His own sake, and we benefited from this decision, why should we not forgive others? Jesus, in the Lord’s Prayer, said we should pray, “And forgive us our debts [sins and morals failures], as we have forgiven our debtors [letting go of both the wrong and the resentment].” (Matthew 6:12 Amp)

There is one key to forgiveness that all MUST UNDERSTAND and it is found in the gospel of Matthew. In chapter 6:14-15, it says, “For if you forgive others their trespasses [their reckless and willful sins], your heavenly Father will also forgive you. BUT if you do not forgive others [nurturing your hurt and anger with the result that it interferes with your relationship with God], then your Father will not forgive your trespasses.

Do not allow unforgiveness to tie the hands of God just so you can stay mad at someone. This is a price you do not want to pay. 

Repentance and Salvation

Repentance is a feeling of responsibility or contrition for wrongdoing. This is a key process in the life of a believer at their conversion and throughout their walk. 

Proverbs 28:13 says,”He who conceals his transgressions will not prosper, But whoever confesses and turns away from [forsakes] his sins will find compassion and mercy.”

Acts 3:19 says,” So repent [change your inner self—your old way of thinking, regret past sins] and return [to God—seek His purpose for your life], so that your sins may be wiped away [blotted out, completely erased], so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord [restoring you like a cool wind on a hot day]”

Once you are convinced that you need a savior, two confessions are required. First you confess to God the wrong doings (sins) you have committed so that the spiritual wall that has separated you from God, may be removed.  Then you declare to the world that Jesus, who was executed in your place on the cross for you, is your Lord [King] and savior then you will be saved.

Romans 10:9-10 says, ”if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.  For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.”

Baptism

While many different denominations have made baptism part of their ritual practices, others have removed it from their practice altogether. I would like to clarify the basics of Christian baptism.

The baptism by John “the baptist” was for repentance and ritualistic in its way. Jesus, who scripture says was sinless and did not require repentance or forgiveness, was baptized by John to “fulfill all righteousness”. (Matthew 3:11-15)

John the Baptist spoke of the baptism of the Holy Spirit, this was the empowering experience that occurred in the book of Acts. This is a topic for a different discussion. (Matthew 3:11, John 1:33)

Christian baptism is neither of the two that have been mentioned. The Christian baptism is an outward display or expression of the decision to accept Jesus which has caused an inward change. 

Colossians 2:11-12 says, ”In Him you were also circumcised with a circumcision not made with hands, but by the [spiritual] circumcision of Christ in the stripping off of the body of the flesh [the sinful carnal nature], having been buried with Him in baptism and raised with Him [to a new life] through [your] faith in the working of God, [as displayed] when He raised Christ from the dead.”

1 Peter 3:18-22 says, “For Christ also suffered [died] once for sins, the righteous [Jesus] for the unrighteous [man kind], that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh [executed] but made alive in the spirit, in which he went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison [Abraham’s Bosom], because they formerly did not obey, when God’s patience waited in the days of Noah, while the ark [taking 100 years] was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through water. Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience [salvation through acceptance], through the resurrection of Jesus Christ,  who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers having been subjected to him.”

When we experience water baptism, we tell all who are watching that we have symbolically been buried and resurrected with Christ. We are a new creature.

Many, including the writer of this post, were baptized as infants as a decision by our parents. As an adult Christian I was baptized in the East China sea while being stationed on the island of Okinawa, Japan in 1984.  If reading this post rings true to you, please speak with your pastor about baptism as part of your personal testimony.

Communion

Communion was introduced before the “last supper” but put into practice since. Communion, like baptism, has become ritualized by some and not practiced at all by others. 

John 6:33 says, “For the bread of God is he who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” Jesus also said “ I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.” (John 6:35)

John 6:53-56(Amp) says,”And Jesus said to them, “I assure you and most solemnly say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood [unless you believe in Me as Savior and believe in the saving power of My blood which will be shed for you], you do not have life in yourselves. The one who eats My flesh and drinks My blood [believes in Me, accepts Me as Savior] has eternal life [that is, now possesses it], and I will raise him up [from the dead] on the last day. For My flesh is true [spiritual] food, and My blood is true [spiritual] drink. He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood [believes in Me, accepts Me as Savior] remains in Me, and I [in the same way remain] in him. 

Luke 22:19-20 says,” And when He had taken bread and given thanks, He broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.”  And in the same way He took the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup, which is poured out for you, is the new covenant [ratified] in My blood.”

1 Corinthians 11, we find Paul giving instruction on communion. Keep in mind that Paul was not present for the last supper, but he was taught by the Holy Spirit and quote’s Christ. 

1 Corinthians 11:23-26 (Amp) says, ”For I received from the Lord Himself that [instruction] which I passed on to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night in which He was betrayed took bread; and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, “This is (represents) My body, which is [offered as a sacrifice] for you. Do this in [affectionate] remembrance of Me.” In the same way, after supper He took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant [ratified and established] in My blood; do this, as often as you drink it, in [affectionate] remembrance of Me.” For every time you eat this bread and drink this cup, you are [symbolically] proclaiming [the fact of] the Lord’s death until He comes [again].”

As we participate in communion, we proclaim and declare the FACT of the Lord’s death and what it means for every believer who trusts in Jesus.

1Cor 11:27-31(Amp) says,”So then whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in a way that is unworthy [of Him] will be guilty of [profaning and sinning against] the body and blood of the Lord. But a person must [prayerfully] examine himself [and his relationship to Christ], and only when he has done so should he eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks [without solemn reverence and heartfelt gratitude for the sacrifice of Christ], eats and drinks a judgment on himself if he does not recognize the body [of Christ]. That [careless and unworthy participation] is the reason why many among you are weak and sick, and a number sleep [in death]. But if we evaluated and judged ourselves honestly [recognizing our shortcomings and correcting our behavior], we would not be judged

.

How many have brought sickness or death onto themselves by turning communion into a seemingly simple “ritual”?

Giving: Not a discussion on tithing

Any member of any “church” has been the victim of the sermon on “tithing”. Not that tithing is not important. It is. What is most important, in my opinion, is the attitude in which we give of our tithes and gifts (monetary and physical abilities). 

Many teachings in the bible have multiple applications and here is one example. In Mark 12 it says, “Teacher, we know that You are truthful and have no personal bias toward anyone; for You are not influenced by outward appearances or social status, but in truth You teach the way of God. Is it lawful [according to Jewish law and tradition] to pay the poll-tax to [Tiberius] Caesar, or not? Should we pay [the tax] or should we not pay?” But knowing their hypocrisy, He asked them, “Why are you testing Me? Bring Me a coin (denarius) to look at.” So they brought one. Then He asked them, “Whose image and inscription is this?” They said to Him, “Caesar’s.” Jesus said to them, “Pay to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” (14-17)

In this situation, Jesus was addressing the hypocrisy of the religious leaders. The truth of pay or give to God the things of God, remains about giving. 

Matthew 6:2-4 says,” So whenever you give to the poor and do acts of kindness, do not blow a trumpet before you [to advertise it], as the hypocrites do [like actors acting out a role] in the synagogues and in the streets, so that they may be honored and recognized and praised by men. I assure you and most solemnly say to you, they [already] have their reward in full. 3 But when you give to the poor and do acts of kindness, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing [give in complete secrecy], so that your charitable acts will be done in secret; and your Father who sees [what is done] in secret will reward you.” 

Your giving should only be known by God himself.  Others just do not need to know. 

Matthew 5:23-24 says, “So if you are presenting your offering [tithe or gift] at the altar, and while there you remember that your brother has something [such as a grievance or legitimate complaint] against you, leave your offering there at the altar and go. First make peace with your brother, and then come and present your offering.”

1 Corinthians 9:7 says, ”Let each one give [thoughtfully and with purpose] just as he has decided in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver [and delights in the one whose heart is in his gift].”

The purpose of this posting, as with all the others I have written, is to encourage you to study and learn about the “things you believe” so that you can one day say, ”I know what I believe and why I believe it.”

Lastly, everything we do and everything we say must be done in the right attitude in order to get the right outcome.  

I awoke this morning with these words on my mind… the Cross has the final word.

The final word… the final statement…. No more to be said or can be said.. 

THE FINAL AUTHORITY

No matter the situation, the answer IS found in Jesus and what He did on the Cross. 

Man is separated from God because of sin(rebellion) but Jesus broke the power of sin when He died on the cross

Man is at odds with God and carries the judgment of God upon them until they accept the sacrifice paid for them on the cross. Salvation is found at the Cross. 

Man is a spiritual orphan but Jesus made a way for man to become legitimate children of God through the Cross.

Man goes through life, often aimlessly, but the Cross gives man hope and purpose. 

Man fights many battles both physical and spiritual but true victory is only found in the Cross. 

Man has many worries but Jesus overcame both worries and the world that brings them by His death on the Cross.  

Man battles sickness and disease but healing was made possible by the blood shed on the Cross.

Rich or poor, young or old, slave or free… the ground is level and there is room at the foot of the cross. 

The Cross has the final word

It has been a surreal time in my home since getting injured.

This is a milestone no one wants to have in their life but I believe that there is purpose in everything that has happened, is happening and has yet to happen. 

Therefore I declare that Jesus is my lord and King. I declare that by accepting his gift of redemption I am a child of God. I declare that all God has for me is for my good and for the advancement of His kingdom. Today I make an active choice to follow the leading of His Holy Spirit. I acknowledge that I can only control my actions and not the actions of others in any situation I face. 

“Oh let those who [reverently] fear the Lord, say, “His lovingkindness endures forever.” Out of my distress I called on the Lord; The Lord answered me and set me free. The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can [mere] man do to me? The Lord is on my side, He is among those who help me; Therefore I will look [in triumph] on those who hate me. It is better to take refuge in the Lord Than to trust in man. It is better to take refuge in the Lord Than to trust in princes. All nations encompassed me; In the name of the Lord I will surely cut them off. They encompassed me, yes, they surrounded me [on every side]; In the name of the Lord I will cut them off. They swarmed around me like bees; They flare up and are extinguished like a fire of thorns; In the name of the Lord I will surely cut them off. You [my enemy] pushed me violently so that I was falling, But the Lord helped me. The Lord is my strength and song, And He has become my salvation. The sound of joyful shouting and salvation is in the tents of the righteous: The right hand of the Lord does valiantly. The right hand of the Lord is exalted; The right hand of the Lord does valiantly. I will not die, but live, And declare the works and recount the illustrious acts of the Lord. The Lord has disciplined me severely, But He has not given me over to death. Open to me the [temple] gates of righteousness; I shall enter through them, I shall give thanks to the Lord. I will give thanks to You, for You have heard and answered me; And You have become my salvation [my Rescuer, my Savior]. This [day in which God has saved me] is the day which the Lord has made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it. O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; For His lovingkindness endures forever.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭118:4-19, 21, 24, 29‬ ‭AMP‬‬

The darkness of this fallen world fades when we look to the hope [our confidence and trust] which comes from the throne room of God. Our hope [our confidence and trust] is in Christ alone. (Heb 4:16)

Jesus Christ, the risen Son of God, sits at the right hand of our Father. Jesus is our intercessor and defender. (Luke 22:69, Romans 8:34) 

We will not falter or fall when our world “drops out from under us” because Jesus has overcome, Jesus has defeated the world, worry and the enemy when he was resurrected on the third day. Jesus has overcome the world. (John 10:11, 16:33)

Do you have fears in your life.. fear of sickness, joblessness, loneliness, persecution or any other fear that tries to hold you down? Your answer is in the Cross. Jesus faced the cross and death, Jesus defeated both. The empty grave is the proof to your fears that Jesus is the risen king who defends and walks with you. (Isaiah 41:10, Heb 13:30, John 16:33, Rom 8:33)

Do you have enemies in your life… things of this world that try to distract you from Christ and your family? Jesus, the Risen King, who defeated death and the grave, is your defender. Jesus fights the battle for you. Jesus is for you … nothing can stand against you! (Deut 31:8, Rom 8:31,37, John 16:33

As the heavens and earth … God’s creation… raise their voices to praise declaring “Jesus, the risen Son, is the rightful King” You too can join this choir because Jesus overcame the cross, death and the enemy for you. 

Declare with a loud voice…. Jesus is the Lord who reigns FOREVER! (Matt 22:44, 1Peter 3:22)

For the risen one has overcome!

These are the thoughts I have had based on the worship song “Overcome” from Elevation Worship. 

It is a gray and overcast morning here in the western Pennsylvania … despite all this… God is still on the throne, Jesus is still seated at God’s right hand where He takes up our cause before God. God has permitted another day for us to share our stories about how God changed our lives when we accepted the gift of salvation, which was paid for by Jesus when he was executed in our place. Romans 5:8 says, “But God clearly shows and proves His own love for us, by the fact that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” 

The christian life is a walk of faith, a walk that does not require physical sight but spiritual sight. A walk that requires being guided by the Holy Spirit of God and learning to listen to that still small voice for God when He speaks yet many find this way of life difficult. Many struggle because they just don’t understand how to live this way but God has provided an answer to the struggle.  

On the Job Training

There are times in our lives when we have been the “new guy” on the job. Our new employer never expected us to function like someone with experience right out of the chute so someone was assigned to “show us the ropes” so to speak. Even if it was the same work you have always done… Each employer has different ways and standards so we still required a guide. This is true about spiritual things too.

If we are new to this faith walk or even if we believe we are an “old hat” at it…. We need good examples to follow. This is where many have gotten tripped up, many have not had good or consistent examples to follow. Another reason this has happened could also be from having attitudes like “I don’t need anyone to show me…. I KNOW WHAT I AM DOING” or “I will figure it out when I get there” … neither of these options ever work out well.

Our first example 

Jesus took the twelve men and taught them how to live and share the story of the Kingdom of God . These twelve men in turn shared the story of Jesus and taught others how to do the same. Those taught by these twelve men went on to teach others how to live and how to share the story of Jesus and the kingdom of God.  This way of learning is often called discipleship and it has been the way God has chosen to teach us. This is the walk of faith. 

This walk of faith started when someone shared the story of Jesus with me and I accepted God’s gift of salvation. 

God continues to send true men and women of God continue to give examples on how to live and how to share the story of “what Jesus DID FOR ME” with others.

“Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭13:7-8‬ ‭NIV‬‬

The Father, Son and Holy Spirit are the same yesterday, today and forever. Their word is true and their love for us never changes.

If you are struggling with your walk …. Ask God to send someone to show you what a walk of faith looks like … someone who will walk with you through life with all its ups and downs.

The enemy intends to destroy us. We must be convinced in our Father’s promises, our Father’s love and our faith in order to overcome the enemy.  

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, conviction is “a strong persuasion or belief, the state of being convinced or a state of mind in which one is free from doubt”. To be convinced is defined as being “sure, certain or confident”. In the Greek, the word Pietho (πειθω)  is translated as “persuaded, convinced or determined”. From all these definitions, we find that conviction is the “state of mind free of doubt, and a mind that is certain produces determination”.

Paul wrote, “I am convinced [persuaded] that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. “ (Romans 8:38-39 AMP)

Conviction is demonstrated by an act or willingness to persevere in the face of overwhelming circumstances while perseverance is the continued effort to do something despite difficulties or opposition. Perseverance requires one to be steadfast, decisive and resolute in their faith no matter the cost. 

That which is dear to our hearts

Is there something that is near and dear to your heart? Is it your career? Your home? Season tickets for your favorite sports team or  that completed sports car or vintage truck? What is the one thing you hold closest to your heart? 

Our first example to learn from is Abraham, who at a late stage in his life, received the promise of a son from God.

In Genesis 15 it says, “Then the word of the Lord came to him: ‘This man will not be your heir, but a son who is your own flesh and blood will be your heir’.” He took him outside and said, “Look up at the sky and count the stars—if indeed you can count them.” Then he said to him, “So shall your offspring be. Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness.” (Genesis 15:4-6)

Genesis 17:15 -19 says,  “God also said to Abraham, ‘As for Sarai your wife, you are no longer to call her Sarai; her name will be Sarah. I will bless her and will surely give you a son by her. I will bless her so that she will be the mother of nations; kings of peoples will come from her.’ Abraham fell facedown; he laughed and said to himself, ‘Will a son be born to a man a hundred years old? Will Sarah bear a child at the age of ninety?’ And Abraham said to God, ‘If only Ishmael might live under your blessing!’ Then God said, ‘Yes, but your wife Sarah will bear you a son, and you will call him Isaac.I will establish my covenant with him as an everlasting covenant for his descendants after him.’”

God established a covenant with a 100 year old man and 90 year old woman establishing that their seed (descendants) would be more than the stars in the heavens. 

The Test

Genesis 22:2-18 says, “Then God said, “Take your son, your only son, whom you love—Isaac—and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on a mountain I will show you.”

Early the next morning, Abraham got up and loaded his donkey. He took with him two of his servants and his son Isaac. When he had cut enough wood for the burnt offering, he set out for the place God had told him about. On the third day, Abraham looked up and saw the place in the distance. He said to his servants, “Stay here with the donkey while I and the boy go over there. We will worship and then we will come back to you.” Abraham took the wood for the burnt offering and placed it on his son Isaac, and he himself carried the fire and the knife. As the two of them went on together, Isaac spoke up and said to his father Abraham, “Father?” “Yes, my son?” Abraham replied. “The fire and wood are here,” Isaac said, “but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?” Abraham answered, “God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” And the two of them went on together. When they reached the place God had told him about, Abraham built an altar there and arranged the wood on it. He bound his son Isaac and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood. Then he reached out his hand and took the knife to slay his son. But the angel of the Lord called out to him from heaven, “Abraham! Abraham!” “Here I am,” he replied. “Do not lay a hand on the boy,” he said. “Do not do anything to him. Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son, your only son.” Abraham looked up and there in a thicket he saw a ram caught by its horns. He went over and took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering instead of his son. So Abraham called that place The Lord Will Provide. And to this day it is said, “On the mountain of the Lord it will be provided.” The angel of the Lord called to Abraham from heaven a second time and said, “I swear by myself, declares the Lord, that because you have done this and have not withheld your son, your only son, I will surely bless you and make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as the sand on the seashore. Your descendants will take possession of the cities of their enemies, and through your offspring all nations on earth will be blessed, because you have obeyed me.”

Let us unpack important observations contained in Genesis 22:

1. God faithfully fulfilled His promise to Abraham when Issac was born.
2. As many believer’s have experienced, God decided to “test” Abraham.
3. While it was not practiced by the followers of Yahweh (God), those in the land in which Abraham lived practiced ritual child sacrifice. 
4. God asked Abraham to sacrifice Issac, “whom you love”.
5. The next day, Abraham readied himself and Issac for the journey.
6. All the items were taken: fire, wood, rope, knife and Issac. 
7. After a 3 day journey, they arrived at the place God had directed. Abraham told the servants that traveled with them to “Stay here with the donkey while I and the boy go over there. We will worship and then we will come back to you.” By this response, we see that Abraham remains convinced of the promise of God that his son and the generations to follow would number more than the stars in the sky. 
8. Abraham and Issac proceed. Abraham carries the knife and the fire while Issac carries the wood.
9. Issac realizes there is something missing and asks, “where is the lamb for the burnt offering?” Abraham answered, “God himself will provide the lamb…”. Again, Abraham speaks his faith and is convinced that God would not break His promise. (Romans 4:18-25)
10. Abraham builds the altar, arranges the wood, ties Issac up and places him on the altar then draws the knife when the voice from heaven tells him to stop. Abraham showed no hesitancy to follow the will of God while remaining convinced of God’s promises.
11.  God tells Abraham, “I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son, your only son.” Then God provided the ram as Abraham said. The ram was sacrificed on the altar he built. Abraham and Issac returned to the servants and returned home. God kept the covenant that He made with Abraham.  

Abraham faced extreme circumstances and preserved through them all while maintaining his personal convictions. He was unyielding in the matter of following the will of God. A day is coming when God will call us to do something specific. Will we be willing to do what He asks? Would we willingly move to a land that is not our own as Abraham did? Would we give up our careers to serve Him wherever He chooses? Would we willingly give up that one thing that means so much to us? 

You want me to do what?

Just imagine yourself, a person with a good reputation, well liked in your community, then God calls you to do something EXTREME in front of all who know you. This is what Noah experienced all those many years ago. 

The bible tells us that “…Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord. This is the account of Noah and his family. Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked faithfully with God.” (Genesis 6:8-9). 

God told Noah what He was going to do when he said, “I am going to put an end to all people, for the earth is filled with violence because of them. I am surely going to destroy both them and the earth. So make yourself an ark…” (Genesis 6:13-13). God then proceeded to give Noah the plans to build this vessel of salvation. 

While it is not expressly stated, it is believed that it took approximately 100 years to build the ark, but scripture tells us during those days “…people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. (Matthew 24:38-39) 

While the bible does mention whether it did or did not rain during the time of Noah, one thing is certain: flood level rains were never seen before. For 100 years, Noah followed God’s instruction while the rest of his world went about their daily lives. 

How many scratched their heads as they watched? 

How many ridiculed or taunted him yet he continued building unabated?

How many wrote Noah off as crazy? 

Prior to the flood God had sent all the animals to the ark in pairs as well as Noah and his family. Once all the animals and family of Noah were secure on the ark, “the Lord shut him in” (Genesis 7:16). 

Then the flood came.

While it is not expressly stated, those who sinned before God, those who for 100 years watched Noah build the Ark, were the same people who likely screamed and pounded on the outside of the Ark when the flood came. 

After approximately one year on the Ark, Noah, his family and all the animals returned to a dry earth to start over again. The first thing Noah did was to build an altar and make sacrifices to God. 

Again, I ask what would we do if God asked us to do something extreme? Are we convinced that God would guide and keep us no matter the time it might take to complete his task? Would ridicule and taunting cause our conviction to fail? 

A shepherd’s determination is the building block of a King

Imagine yourself as a young boy who woke up one morning wondering “what does this day have in store for me?”  David, the son of Jesse, was the shepherd of his fathers sheep. He was skilled in the use of a slingshot for defense and playing the stringed instrument known as a “lyre”. 

David was anointed as King by Samuel at the command of God. He was sent to King Saul to play music to calm the king, but meeting the giant was the pivotal point in his life. 

While David was still a young man he was sent by his father to take food to his brothers and to see how his brothers were. The brothers were in the army of the king. Upon arriving, he left the food with the quartermaster and went to see his brothers at the battle front. 

While at the battle front, David saw Goliath for the first time. Goliath was a Philistine, an enemy of Israel, he was a giant and a champion warrior. Goliath continually mocked the army of Israel, the God of Israel and the King who was present. 

David wondered why nothing was being done to deal with Goliath and began questioning. His oldest brother was angry and began to ridicule him asking “why are you here?” and accusing him of just wanting to watch. David continued to ask questions over his brother and the king heard him. 

David told the king, “Let no one lose heart on account of this Philistine; your servant will go and fight him.” (1 Samuel 17:32) but the king told David he was young and untrained, unlike the giant. 

In 1 Samuel 17:34 it says, “… David said to Saul, “Your servant has been keeping his father’s sheep. When a lion or a bear came and carried off a sheep from the flock, I went after it, struck it and rescued the sheep from its mouth. When it turned on me, I seized it by its hair, struck it and killed it. Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, because he has defied the armies of the living God. The Lord who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine.” Saul said to David, “Go, and the Lord be with you.”

From experiences in life, David was convinced that God watched over him and gave him the skills necessary for whatever he would face in life. David was determined to face and overcome the enemy. When the king tried to dress David like a soldier, he told the king “I cannot go in these,” he said to Saul, “because I am not used to them.”(1Sam 17:39) 

1 Samuel 17:40 tells us, “Then he (David) took his staff in his hand, chose five smooth stones from the stream, put them in the pouch of his shepherd’s bag and, with his sling in his hand, approached the Philistine.” 

1 Samuel 17:45-47 recounts David’s declaration to Goliath saying, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hands, and I’ll strike you down and cut off your head. This very day I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds and the wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give all of you into our hands.” As he declared, David charged the battle line, pulled a stone from his bag and using the sling he struck Goliath causing his fall and death”. David then took Goliath’s sword from its sheath, used it to remove Goliath’s head as declared. (1Samuel 17:48-54).

Now about the additional stones… Goliath had brothers, in 1 Chronicles 20: 4-8 it says, “In the course of time, war broke out with the Philistines, at Gezer. At that time Sibbekai the Hushathite killed Sippai, one of the descendants of the Rephaites, and the Philistines were subjugated. In another battle with the Philistines, Elhanan son of Jair killed Lahmi the brother of Goliath the Gittite, who had a spear with a shaft like a weaver’s rod.In still another battle, which took place at Gath, there was a huge man with six fingers on each hand and six toes on each foot—twenty-four in all. He also was descended from Rapha. When he taunted Israel, Jonathan son of Shimea, David’s brother, killed him. These were descendants of Rapha in Gath, and they fell at the hands of David and his men.”

Have we been confronted by “giants” in our lives, something we have never seen or experienced before? These very “giants” mock us, our families, our faith and the God we serve! Will we take a stand against the giants? Will we declare, in confidence, that the battle is the Lord’s? Stand your ground, fight the good fight and you will witness victory as your giant falls at the hand of God. 

Persecution: a trial by Fire 

Our last example of conviction is found in the book of Daniel where we find Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were given charge over the area of Babylon for king Nebuchadnezzar. (Daniel 3:12)

Nebuchadnezzar had decided to create a 90 foot tall golden idol to be worshiped. On the day of dedication, all those in authority were commanded to attend. The instructions given said,  “…Nations and peoples of every language, this is what you are commanded to do: As soon as you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipe and all kinds of music, you must fall down and worship the image of gold that King Nebuchadnezzar has set up. Whoever does not fall down and worship will immediately be thrown into a blazing furnace.” (Daniel 3:4-6) It was at this time that a group Chaldeans brought a complaint to the king saying, “But there are some Jews whom you have set over the affairs of the province of Babylon—Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego—who pay no attention to you, Your Majesty. They neither serve your gods nor worship the image of gold you have set up.” (Daniel 3:12)

Nebuchadnezzer was furious because his decree was not followed and he questioned Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. After questioning the three men, the king gave them an ultimatum saying, “Now when you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipe and all kinds of music, if you are ready to fall down and worship the image I made, very good. But if you do not worship it, you will be thrown immediately into a blazing furnace. Then what god will be able to rescue you from my hand?” (Daniel 3:15)

Daniel 3:16-18 tells us, “ Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to him, “King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand. But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.”

Nebuchadnezzer did as he threatened, He had the men tied and the furnace stoked seven times hotter than it had ever been before. The men were thrown into a fire so hot that the soldiers who carried out the order, died at the furnace opening. Then the King saw four men walking about in the furnace and ordered  Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego to climb back out. (Daniel 3:24-26)

Two final things to note in this story:

1. All who were present witnessed “that the fire had not harmed their bodies, nor was a hair of their heads singed; their robes were not scorched, and there was no smell of fire on them”. (Daniel 3:27)
2.  Nebuchadnezzar said, “Praise be to the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, who has sent his angel and rescued his servants! They trusted in him and defied the king’s command and were willing to give up their lives rather than serve or worship any god except their own God.”

Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego are one of the best examples of living out our convictions under extreme conditions. In the face of utter death, they were convinced in the saving power of the God that  they served. You can sense the conviction in their statement when they said that our God will save us BUT even if He doesn’t we will not serve your gods.  

It was during a time of prayer and reading in the book of Daniel that God pointed out the convictions demonstrated by Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. It was at this time that I started to look into my own life and faith practices asking the question “would I have done the same thing as these three men”? It is my prayer that God would continue to build both my faith and convictions for the trials I am yet to face.

As the reader I ask you, like Abraham, has the Father in heaven given you a specific promise you are holding onto? Are you convinced that God will keep the promise even if He asks you to sacrifice it? 

Are you determined to follow God even if He gives you an assignment that might seem crazy or futile to everyone but you? 

Are you convinced that the Lord is with you and that you have the perseverance needed to fight the giant face to face? 

Are you determined to stand firm for holiness and godliness in the face of persecution and threats?

Ephesians 6:10-13 says, “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.”

(A view from the point of the writer)

What God has done.

January 2022 was the beginning of a journey for me. While sitting at the foot of the hospital bed watching my wife who was just diagnosed with CV19 pneumonia I heard God speak these words:

“You have neglected your family” 

“You have neglected your calling” 

“”You have neglected your health” 

It was on this cold January day that God redirected my life. 

What God is doing

The direction of my life took an abrupt change. I left an organization that I was part of for nearly four years and I am working daily to serve God whenever and wherever He sends me. 

Something new that has happened since I made these changes in my life, I wake up every morning with a song on my mind. I have found that the songs God gives me often fall in line with the area of scripture I am studying that day. 

God again has opened His word to me and has brought purpose back to my life. It has been out of times of study and prayer that Fellowship of Christ (FOC) Ministries was born and continues to grow . One part of the ministry of FOC has been the posted messages I have called “from the kitchen table”. 

What God is going to do.

In the beginning of this faith walk God started to form a vision of what FOC would look like. We are watching as God builds a plan to follow. A vision for a gathering of believers united in the goal of sharing the story of Jesus and the kingdom of God wherever they are. A vision to see the local church mature and grow where they are planted. A vision of a church that ministers to all in and outside of the church. A simple church based on biblical orthodoxy and willing to serve all who are in need. 

My motives for serving God

I want to follow God wherever He goes. 

I want to be in the middle of what God is doing. 

I want to be a useful tool in the hands of the master craftsman. 

I want to see my friends, family and strangers free of the weight that drags them down. 

I want to know that I will find my friends and families standing in the Throne Room of God.  

I have wasted so much time in my life on things that mean nothing in the end.

I have confessed Christ for more than 40 yrs only to be like Israel before captivity. 

I have turned my back on Him, finding different “idols” to focus on. 

I have gone about my life, trying to feel good about all the things that have left me empty. 

Despite all of the things I have done, God is always faithful. 

God has provided, protected and has brought correction in my life. 

A father corrects his children because loves his children. This is true about God in my life. 

I pray at my kitchen table.

I worship at my kitchen table. 

I cry at my kitchen table 

I write at my kitchen table.

I am watching my life change here at my kitchen table.