Jesus, the Son of God, has been raised from the dead with power according to the spirit of holiness (Romans 1:3&4). Grace and apostleship were given to Paul and others for the specific purpose of witnessing to all nations that Jesus is truly Lord and King, the anointed one of God. Faith should not be separated from obedience. Obedience is the fruit of faith. The extent that ones believes can be determined by the extent one obeys. A dead, disobedient faith is not a true, rescuing faith. God, through the work of the Spirit has sent Jesus to bless us by "turning away every one of you from his iniquities" (Acts 3:26). If one has not been rescued from sin and ungodliness to righteousness and holiness, true faith is lacking. We must deny ourselves, pick up a cross, and follow Jesus (Luke 9:23).
Jesus and the Apostles were clear: it is the followers and the doers of the Word and not the hearers only who are wise (Matthew 7:24-27, Romans 2:13, and James 1:22). Further, James tells us that we are not justified by faith alone (2:17). Works must demonstrate our faith. True, we enter into covenant and right relationship with God through our faith by His grace and not by any man-made system or self-appointed identity, but it is the evidence of the Spirit of Life that truly reflects that we have been converted. In other words, it is our works that prove our faith. The goal of our life should be obedience, striving to do the will of God (Matthew 7:23). And we must start with faith and believing His teachings regarding sin, salvation, the Kingdom of God, hell, repentance, etc.. This will naturally change us. He calls and we answer. A changed life is demonstrative that one has truly answered the call of God. It was the Father who loved us enough to redeem us and it is by His power, the same power that raised Jesus from the dead, that we can repudiate sin and the world and walk in His ways, obeying His commandments. Faith alone is dead (James 2).
Consider the penitent thief on the cross. "The conversion of the thief on the cross has frequently been used to illustrate salvation without works. Many ministers have affirmed that this is a proof and an example of 'salvation by faith, plus nothing'. It is argued that his hands and feet were tied, rendering him altogether helpless to do anything. As previously noted, however, some of the most difficult thing we have to do are done by mental or spiritual work. Anything difficult to do or that takes effort to do must be considered work. A careful look at the experience of the thief is enlightening. At first he was in party with those who mocked and reviled Jesus on the cross (Matthew 27:44). But suddenly he changed his thinking, repented, and began paying serious attention to Jesus. He observed how unjustly Christ was treated, and probably he heard Jesus plead forgiveness for those who crucified Him. He was impressed with his gracious spirit. The thief believed in Jesus in perhaps the most difficult and unpromising hours ever to believe in Him. It was the hour when religious and political leaders were mocking and scoffing the Lord. He had been betrayed, forsaken, and denied by His own beloved disciples. The thief believed in Jesus with no help or encouragement from anyone. He acknowledged that he deserved his own punishment, and he confessed the righteousness of Christ. 'This man hath done nothing amiss' (Luke 23:41). He witnessed to the other thief, who was continuing his reviling mockery. He acknowledged Christ as Savior and Lord, and called upon Him for mercy. He acknowledged Him as a king on His way to possess His kingdom. Did all this take any effort? Was it easy or hard? This may actually have been one of the most difficult and outstanding conversions to Christ on the pages of history. Indeed the thief's conversion was very far from 'salvation by faith, plus nothing'." (1)
The beginning and the end of faith is Jesus. To love, obey, and serve Him. It is by the death and suffering of Jesus that God justifies the ungodly by His pure grace not imputing sin to those who repent. Then, a transformation occurs where the sinner is changed from wicked to righteous by the outpouring of the Spirit.
"By the doctrine of justification of the sinner by faith alone, the judgement of condemnation is upon the proud pharisee who wants to be justified by the works of the law. However, there is great comfort for the poor sinner in it because he does not have to bring anything with him for his justification except a broken heart, a broken spirit, and faith in Christ, the Crucified. Nevertheless, this faith and justification by faith do not extend to all of the life that comes afterwards, and the works of grace (of the new divine nature) are not rejected like the works of the law. These new works are just as required for salvation as the old works are inadequate for justification. He who has received Christ, the image of God, that Adam lost can and must be minded and walk as Christ was upon earth. That is not a difficult art. However, he who does not have Christ in him by the Holy Spirit is not a child of God and consequently is not an heir of God by Christ, the inheritance cannot be earned legally. Instead, it depends on the adoptions of sons, which results from the new birth and must then be shown by new obedience under the law of the Spirit or liberty. Then it must be shown whether the man of God who has been pardoned and set up again from Adam's fall will do better than Adam did, for the children of God, in whom the image of God has been renewed by Christ, are tested just like Adam. They can do all things by Christ who indwells them. That is why those who do not have Christ in their spirit say it is impossible to live like Jesus Christ was. However, man's last justification before God certainly takes place by works and not faith alone." (2)
Let us remember that it is God's good pleasure to give us the Kingdom (Luke 12:32) and that He is faithful (1st Thessalonians 5:24). As we submit to God, let us not get bogged down with unfruitful discussions about faith vs. works to the point that we fail to realize the simple message of the Gospel: Jesus calls us to the Kingdom via repentance, Jesus saves us from sin and death via His death, Jesus redeems us with real power because He is alive, and Jesus inspires us to live obediently...for we must all appear before the judgment seat of the Lord (Romans 14:10 and 2nd Corinthians 5:10).
References
1. Shank, Aaron M. (2011). Faith and Works in Salvation. Rod and Staff Publishers, Inc. Crockett, Kentucky. pg. 30-31.
2. Froehlich, Samuel H. (2017). Meditations on the Epistle of the Apostle Paul to the Romans. The Heritage Center Foundation. Fairbury, Illinois. pg.38.
Sunday, September 24, 2017
Saturday, May 27, 2017
Separation from the World
The New Testament Church is to be separate from “this present evil world” (Galatians 1:4). When we understand the Gospel as a royal summons to follow Jesus in his new kingdom, commune with Almighty God, receive forgiveness of sin, and experience resurrection spiritual power for overcoming, it is only logical and right that we are to be different than the hordes who reject or are ignorant of the sacred scriptures. Those that have obeyed the Gospel and been baptized into the death, burial and resurrection of the Messiah have been called out of the world and into a holy nation, chosen generation, royal priesthood, and peculiar people (1st Peter 2:9).
In order to really understand the integral components of being separate from the world, it is important to define the terms. To be separate is to be severed from or cut-off from something. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines separate as "to disunite; to divide; to sever; to part, in almost any manner, either things naturally or casually joined" (1).
Jesus makes it very clear that his followers would be hated by the world because the world hated Him first (John 15). When humans are reconciled to God by the obedience of faith (Romans 1:5), a disciplining experience unfolds when we deny ourselves, pick up our cross, and follow Jesus. Leaving all former allegiances behind (Luke 14:25-33), we enter into covenant with the Father on His terms. Humans that share the similar experience of undergoing spiritual transformation and true conversion are united as a holy nation under the rule and leadership of Jesus, their King. This forms the basis of the Church. It is of free mercy that sinners may come confessing and the heart of God is moved. And the effect of this initial repentance leads to an abundant life and communion with God according to holiness. The conversion experience entails putting off former lusts (Ephesians 4:22 and 1st Peter 1:14) while putting on the new man according to the divine life of Jesus and the Spirit (Romans 8 and Galatians 6:15-18).
The word "world" can have several meanings in scripture. One meaning is synonymous with the earth (Job 34:13). Another meaning is congruent with the inhabitants on the earth (John 3:16). In other areas of scripture, the world is described as something God’s people are to abstain from (Titus 2:11,12). There is a strong connection between this form of the “world” and carnality and/or the flesh. Thus, being separate from the world is an obligation, commandment, and blessing for God’s people. The world which Christians are to be severed from can be equitable with the system, beliefs, entertainments, attitudes, styles, and fashions of those that are not God's covenant people. This world system is not built around the life of Jesus and his kingdom teachings and values. It is driven by carnal impulses and void of the true Spirit of God.
Consider these scriptures:
First, our Lord instructs in John 17:14-16, “I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.”
Romans 12:1,2, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."
As a jealous and righteous being, the Father has always wanted people to obey Him for His glory and their benefit (i.e. Deuteronomy 6). Please read and meditate on 2nd Corinthians 6:14 to 2nd Corinthians 7:1.
Faith and separation from the world are integral links in the new kingdom. Hebrews 11:13-16 beautifully describes that full trust in God motivates the redeemed to freely confess that they are now strangers and pilgrims on earth seeking a better country and being careful not to return to the world of sin and evil.
A potent thought worthy of much consideration is given by James in 4:4, “Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.”
Can we love the world and love God at the same time? God forbid.
‘What is the world?’ we may ask. 1st John 2:15-17 exhorts, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. The world passes away and the lust thereof: but he that does the will of God abideth forever.”
Each one who has been redeemed by the precious blood of Jesus was in and of the world. God rescues people out of their sin and the world. We must humbly acknowledge that in former times, we were ‘of the world’. By His help, we have mortified the deeds of the flesh and deal with our own fallen nature in the power of the Spirit (Colossians 3). To be spiritual is to be separate. To be spiritual, according to the Bible, is to be holy. Achieving separation from the world is not grounds for pomp or pride. True separation is born out of humility, hatred toward evil, and love for the Creator. Sadly, many who desire separation are chided in various ways by other professing Christians.
The Church should live, teach, and exhort separation from the world. True repentance and conversion predicates the doctrine. As true believers order their lives around the precepts of God’s word, the commandments of Jesus, and the apostolic admonitions, there will be many opportunities to separate from the world. In its beauty, the Bible does not give many specifics bound by time and culture, but rather unique and vibrant principles that must be applied. Without separation from the world, can one truly identify themselves as a disciple of Jesus? An honest attempt at separation is far better than no attempt at all.
May the Lord, our great King and eternal Savior, guide us into all truth and application. May we humbly seek out His guidance to be separate from the world. May we not simply try to avoid the “big” sins only to go with the flow of the broader society. May we seek His will in the areas of adornment, entertainment, attitude, and lifestyle. Every area of life should be under the subjection of King Jesus.
Is separation from the world optional? God forbid. It is foundational.
Reflect on Zion's Harp Hymn #185 in its entirety.
Select Verses
Vs. 1: Come, children, let us journey; the evening draweth near; our path is full of danger; the desert, dark and drear! Encourage now your heart to future life to wander, grow strong until up yonder all grief and woe depart.
Vs. 2: We shall not be regretting we chose this pilgrims’ way; we know the One, so faithful, who leads us day by day. Believe and serve ye Him, each one his face directing, the narrow way selecting, straight to Jerusalem!
Vs. 3: The going out of Babel we never will regret, but hope to grow more perfect, more separated yet. Nay, children, do not fear; despise the world’s alluring, its wrath and hate enduring; march onward in good cheer.
Vs. 11: We journey in seclusion, despised and quite unknown, unseen mid the confusion of this land, not our own; yet, if the world pays heed, it hears our voices ringing, songs of the homeland singing, for which we yearn indeed.
(1) http://webstersdictionary1828.com/Dictionary/separate
In order to really understand the integral components of being separate from the world, it is important to define the terms. To be separate is to be severed from or cut-off from something. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines separate as "to disunite; to divide; to sever; to part, in almost any manner, either things naturally or casually joined" (1).
Jesus makes it very clear that his followers would be hated by the world because the world hated Him first (John 15). When humans are reconciled to God by the obedience of faith (Romans 1:5), a disciplining experience unfolds when we deny ourselves, pick up our cross, and follow Jesus. Leaving all former allegiances behind (Luke 14:25-33), we enter into covenant with the Father on His terms. Humans that share the similar experience of undergoing spiritual transformation and true conversion are united as a holy nation under the rule and leadership of Jesus, their King. This forms the basis of the Church. It is of free mercy that sinners may come confessing and the heart of God is moved. And the effect of this initial repentance leads to an abundant life and communion with God according to holiness. The conversion experience entails putting off former lusts (Ephesians 4:22 and 1st Peter 1:14) while putting on the new man according to the divine life of Jesus and the Spirit (Romans 8 and Galatians 6:15-18).
The word "world" can have several meanings in scripture. One meaning is synonymous with the earth (Job 34:13). Another meaning is congruent with the inhabitants on the earth (John 3:16). In other areas of scripture, the world is described as something God’s people are to abstain from (Titus 2:11,12). There is a strong connection between this form of the “world” and carnality and/or the flesh. Thus, being separate from the world is an obligation, commandment, and blessing for God’s people. The world which Christians are to be severed from can be equitable with the system, beliefs, entertainments, attitudes, styles, and fashions of those that are not God's covenant people. This world system is not built around the life of Jesus and his kingdom teachings and values. It is driven by carnal impulses and void of the true Spirit of God.
Consider these scriptures:
First, our Lord instructs in John 17:14-16, “I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.”
Romans 12:1,2, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."
As a jealous and righteous being, the Father has always wanted people to obey Him for His glory and their benefit (i.e. Deuteronomy 6). Please read and meditate on 2nd Corinthians 6:14 to 2nd Corinthians 7:1.
Faith and separation from the world are integral links in the new kingdom. Hebrews 11:13-16 beautifully describes that full trust in God motivates the redeemed to freely confess that they are now strangers and pilgrims on earth seeking a better country and being careful not to return to the world of sin and evil.
A potent thought worthy of much consideration is given by James in 4:4, “Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.”
Can we love the world and love God at the same time? God forbid.
‘What is the world?’ we may ask. 1st John 2:15-17 exhorts, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. The world passes away and the lust thereof: but he that does the will of God abideth forever.”
Each one who has been redeemed by the precious blood of Jesus was in and of the world. God rescues people out of their sin and the world. We must humbly acknowledge that in former times, we were ‘of the world’. By His help, we have mortified the deeds of the flesh and deal with our own fallen nature in the power of the Spirit (Colossians 3). To be spiritual is to be separate. To be spiritual, according to the Bible, is to be holy. Achieving separation from the world is not grounds for pomp or pride. True separation is born out of humility, hatred toward evil, and love for the Creator. Sadly, many who desire separation are chided in various ways by other professing Christians.
The Church should live, teach, and exhort separation from the world. True repentance and conversion predicates the doctrine. As true believers order their lives around the precepts of God’s word, the commandments of Jesus, and the apostolic admonitions, there will be many opportunities to separate from the world. In its beauty, the Bible does not give many specifics bound by time and culture, but rather unique and vibrant principles that must be applied. Without separation from the world, can one truly identify themselves as a disciple of Jesus? An honest attempt at separation is far better than no attempt at all.
May the Lord, our great King and eternal Savior, guide us into all truth and application. May we humbly seek out His guidance to be separate from the world. May we not simply try to avoid the “big” sins only to go with the flow of the broader society. May we seek His will in the areas of adornment, entertainment, attitude, and lifestyle. Every area of life should be under the subjection of King Jesus.
Is separation from the world optional? God forbid. It is foundational.
Reflect on Zion's Harp Hymn #185 in its entirety.
Select Verses
Vs. 1: Come, children, let us journey; the evening draweth near; our path is full of danger; the desert, dark and drear! Encourage now your heart to future life to wander, grow strong until up yonder all grief and woe depart.
Vs. 2: We shall not be regretting we chose this pilgrims’ way; we know the One, so faithful, who leads us day by day. Believe and serve ye Him, each one his face directing, the narrow way selecting, straight to Jerusalem!
Vs. 3: The going out of Babel we never will regret, but hope to grow more perfect, more separated yet. Nay, children, do not fear; despise the world’s alluring, its wrath and hate enduring; march onward in good cheer.
Vs. 11: We journey in seclusion, despised and quite unknown, unseen mid the confusion of this land, not our own; yet, if the world pays heed, it hears our voices ringing, songs of the homeland singing, for which we yearn indeed.
(1) http://webstersdictionary1828.com/Dictionary/separate
Thursday, April 27, 2017
Christ: God's anointed, the Messiah, King Jesus
Many people have a first and a last name; it is then assumed that Jesus Christ is the full name of our Lord and Redeemer. In reality, and according to the scriptures, Christ is not a surname. The word Christ is derived from the greek word christos which means anointed or anointed one (1). In the Hebrew, the equivalent is mashiach which is where English gets the word messiah. The label of Christ after Jesus is more about a title than a name. The word Christ literally means the "anointed one of God". To be anointed with oil was the typical course of action for the priests and kings of the old covenant. Prophets were also occasionally anointed but it traditionally occurred to kings, the "anointed ones". This explains the meaning behind David's respect for King Saul (1st Samuel 24:6). Saul was considered to be the Lord's anointed. Accordingly, "The overriding biblical imagery of the word “Messiah” or “Christ” is that of a king chosen by God" (1). Much of the Old Testament points to a coming King. Jesus fulfilled the prophecies in dramatic fashion and "confounded the wise" with His message of the New Kingdom. Yet, during Jesus ministry and even after his resurrection, many still wondered if he would overthrow the Roman Empire and establish an earthly kingdom (or nation) for the believing Jews (Acts 1:6).
Jesus most definitely came as a suffering savior and as a conquering King in order to bring the New Covenant to full fruition. The ministry of Jesus brings us the Kingdom. The message of Jesus is quite political with new commandments and responsibilities (Matthew 5-7). The Gospel of salvation requires allegiance to the King of the message itself. Humans should break ties to former allegiances, namely sin and the world, and embrace the new Kingdom under the Lordship and rule of Jesus. It's no wonder that the first requirement for becoming a follower of the way is repentance (Matthew 3:2).
When we properly understand Jesus as the long-awaited and anointed Messiah, we look at the word Christ in a new light. A better way to think of "Jesus Christ" is to think and speak of "Jesus, the King", "Jesus, the Anointed", or "Jesus, the Messiah". This will properly exalt the Lord to His rightful headship as "ruler of the nations" (Psalm 22:28).
Of course, at the present time, earthly kingdoms do have their place (Romans 13) but it seems that followers of Jesus should consider themselves the "us" and governments the "them". We have committed to Jesus as our Ruler. Our total allegiance is required without compromise. This is quite possible by the hand of God when we understand the Gospel to be less about "getting saved and going to heaven" and more about leaving this present evil world (Galatians 1:4), dying with Messiah in baptism (Romans 6), and walking in the power of the Spirit (Romans 8 and Galatians 5). Through this, God writes His laws in our hearts, He dwells with us and walks with us after we become His covenant people (2nd Corin. 6:14-18). Better understanding Christ to be a glorious and powerful title brings fresh perspective to the New Testament.
Zion's Harp #12 - Lord Jesus, Thou Art King
v.1 Lord Jesus, Thou art King; At God's right hand Thou reignest. Thy praise the angels sing; Thy servants Thou sustainest. The world's release didst Thou upon the cross achieve. Look down in pity now, its wretchedness relieve.
v.2 Thy gospel free and pure send forth to every nation. Let all perceive Thy light, and welcome Thy salvation. Raise up Thy people true; let every tongue and clime sound forth Thy glorious praise, exalt Thy name sublime.
v.3 Let every heart and knee in reverence bow before Thee, and in the very dust in humbleness adore Thee. Let every tongue confess that God His son did raise to be a Savior, King, unto His Father's praise.
v.5 His glorious rule shall be unending and unbroken. The scepter of His might, of peace shall be the token. Ye nations shout for joy; His praise let all proclaim. Let all the earth bring forth the honor due His name.
v.8 Glory to God on high, To Father, Son, and Spirit, whose faithful children all the Kingdom shall inherit. The host of Thine elect, the heavens broad and free praise Thee, great Trinity, through all eternity.
(1) http://ourrabbijesus.com/articles/what-does-the-word-christ-actually-mean/
Jesus most definitely came as a suffering savior and as a conquering King in order to bring the New Covenant to full fruition. The ministry of Jesus brings us the Kingdom. The message of Jesus is quite political with new commandments and responsibilities (Matthew 5-7). The Gospel of salvation requires allegiance to the King of the message itself. Humans should break ties to former allegiances, namely sin and the world, and embrace the new Kingdom under the Lordship and rule of Jesus. It's no wonder that the first requirement for becoming a follower of the way is repentance (Matthew 3:2).
When we properly understand Jesus as the long-awaited and anointed Messiah, we look at the word Christ in a new light. A better way to think of "Jesus Christ" is to think and speak of "Jesus, the King", "Jesus, the Anointed", or "Jesus, the Messiah". This will properly exalt the Lord to His rightful headship as "ruler of the nations" (Psalm 22:28).
Of course, at the present time, earthly kingdoms do have their place (Romans 13) but it seems that followers of Jesus should consider themselves the "us" and governments the "them". We have committed to Jesus as our Ruler. Our total allegiance is required without compromise. This is quite possible by the hand of God when we understand the Gospel to be less about "getting saved and going to heaven" and more about leaving this present evil world (Galatians 1:4), dying with Messiah in baptism (Romans 6), and walking in the power of the Spirit (Romans 8 and Galatians 5). Through this, God writes His laws in our hearts, He dwells with us and walks with us after we become His covenant people (2nd Corin. 6:14-18). Better understanding Christ to be a glorious and powerful title brings fresh perspective to the New Testament.
Zion's Harp #12 - Lord Jesus, Thou Art King
v.1 Lord Jesus, Thou art King; At God's right hand Thou reignest. Thy praise the angels sing; Thy servants Thou sustainest. The world's release didst Thou upon the cross achieve. Look down in pity now, its wretchedness relieve.
v.2 Thy gospel free and pure send forth to every nation. Let all perceive Thy light, and welcome Thy salvation. Raise up Thy people true; let every tongue and clime sound forth Thy glorious praise, exalt Thy name sublime.
v.3 Let every heart and knee in reverence bow before Thee, and in the very dust in humbleness adore Thee. Let every tongue confess that God His son did raise to be a Savior, King, unto His Father's praise.
v.5 His glorious rule shall be unending and unbroken. The scepter of His might, of peace shall be the token. Ye nations shout for joy; His praise let all proclaim. Let all the earth bring forth the honor due His name.
v.8 Glory to God on high, To Father, Son, and Spirit, whose faithful children all the Kingdom shall inherit. The host of Thine elect, the heavens broad and free praise Thee, great Trinity, through all eternity.
(1) http://ourrabbijesus.com/articles/what-does-the-word-christ-actually-mean/
Thursday, March 30, 2017
What is the Gospel?
Much chatter these days is centered around the concept of "sharing the Gospel". It would behoove us to first ask the question "what is the Gospel?" If we are not careful, we can turn the Gospel into something cheap and contrary to the Holy scriptures. The word "gospel" is first mentioned in the New Testament in Matthew 4:23 and describes Jesus going about Galilee teaching in synagogues and preaching "the gospel of the kingdom" while healing the sick and diseased. What is the Gospel of the kingdom? Is it not that the long awaited Messiah has arrived to restore the nation of Israel with a new level of spirituality and vigor? Is it not that the time of healing has arrived? Is it not that all tribes and nations should now embrace the Savior, Prophet, and King, Jesus himself? Is it not a new set of standards, ethics, and laws that will hasten the day when God himself will reign in the new earth? Is it not the glorious revelation of Yahweh's love that sinners are now beckoned to mercy, experience conversion, given a new heart for obedience, and passionately look forward to the resurrection of the dead? Is it not the tangible, abundant life which can be the lot of those who embrace Jesus as Lord?
If we don't understand the Gospel by first looking to the Gospels of Christ we may end up with a narrow view of God's perfect plan of salvation. If we build our theology around the Epistles first, we may inadvertently make Jesus actual teachings complicated, awkward, or worse, obsolete, and we run the risk of turning the Gospel into nothing more than a formula for forensic justification ("getting saved"). Sadly, the Gospel has become compatible with and acceptable to all sorts of carnality and worldly living. The Gospel of Jesus (found in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) suggest otherwise; the Gospel is actually contrary to the ways of the world and the ways of the earthly kingdoms because it is against the natural disposition of man.
While the 'Roman's Road' does indeed contain scriptural truths and may be helpful in some situations, the Church should not start with it as the fundamental basis for our understanding of the Gospel. We must start with Jesus and His teachings. We must start with the good news that the King has arrived and its high time for any and all to save themselves from this wicked generation. We must understand that Jesus offers us the unimaginable: a love-trust-obey relationship with Almighty God 'without the works of the law'! We must understand that submission to His rule and doctrine through faith is paramount to being restored to the Father and rescuing mankind from sin.
Consider the Great Commission described in Matthew 28:16-20:
16 Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. 17 And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted. 18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
Think about it! Jesus spoke these words before Paul was converted or any of the epistles were written. What is the Great Commission compelling us to do? "Go and tell people they can be saved and go to heaven!" No...we are to go, teach all nations, baptize them, and teach others to observe all things whatsoever he has commanded us. In other words, we are to make disciples of Jesus who seek to obey His teachings and live the Gospel Kingdom values. We are to teach all nations, starting in Jerusalem, what Jesus actually said as recorded in the Gospels. Embracing the Kingdom vision of the Gospel of Jesus Christ is the broader context into which we should share the Good News that Jesus does indeed desire to redeem individuals for His purposes and there is freedom from the temporal and eternal bondage of sin.
(None of the above is to imply that the rest of the New Testament is sub-par, less inspired, or less valuable than the Gospels. When we have a properly focused theology on the Kingdom message of Jesus the Acts, Epistles, and Revelation become rich and profitable passages for encouragement, doctrine and instruction.)
If we don't understand the Gospel by first looking to the Gospels of Christ we may end up with a narrow view of God's perfect plan of salvation. If we build our theology around the Epistles first, we may inadvertently make Jesus actual teachings complicated, awkward, or worse, obsolete, and we run the risk of turning the Gospel into nothing more than a formula for forensic justification ("getting saved"). Sadly, the Gospel has become compatible with and acceptable to all sorts of carnality and worldly living. The Gospel of Jesus (found in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) suggest otherwise; the Gospel is actually contrary to the ways of the world and the ways of the earthly kingdoms because it is against the natural disposition of man.
While the 'Roman's Road' does indeed contain scriptural truths and may be helpful in some situations, the Church should not start with it as the fundamental basis for our understanding of the Gospel. We must start with Jesus and His teachings. We must start with the good news that the King has arrived and its high time for any and all to save themselves from this wicked generation. We must understand that Jesus offers us the unimaginable: a love-trust-obey relationship with Almighty God 'without the works of the law'! We must understand that submission to His rule and doctrine through faith is paramount to being restored to the Father and rescuing mankind from sin.
Consider the Great Commission described in Matthew 28:16-20:
16 Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. 17 And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted. 18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
Think about it! Jesus spoke these words before Paul was converted or any of the epistles were written. What is the Great Commission compelling us to do? "Go and tell people they can be saved and go to heaven!" No...we are to go, teach all nations, baptize them, and teach others to observe all things whatsoever he has commanded us. In other words, we are to make disciples of Jesus who seek to obey His teachings and live the Gospel Kingdom values. We are to teach all nations, starting in Jerusalem, what Jesus actually said as recorded in the Gospels. Embracing the Kingdom vision of the Gospel of Jesus Christ is the broader context into which we should share the Good News that Jesus does indeed desire to redeem individuals for His purposes and there is freedom from the temporal and eternal bondage of sin.
(None of the above is to imply that the rest of the New Testament is sub-par, less inspired, or less valuable than the Gospels. When we have a properly focused theology on the Kingdom message of Jesus the Acts, Epistles, and Revelation become rich and profitable passages for encouragement, doctrine and instruction.)
Saturday, February 25, 2017
The Kingdom of God
Much could be said about the Kingdom message of Jesus, the Messiah. Arguably, the Kingdom message was the focal point of Jesus' recorded ministry. Jesus, as the divine son of God, came into the world with a profound message for all, "Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand". The implications of such a message are far-reaching and utterly poignant. The perfect plan of salvation for fallen mankind was not simply about how individuals can be 'saved and go to heaven', although it includes that.
God's plan is to restore earth and humanity (whosoever will) to His ways. For His commandants are not grievous and are for our well-being (Proverbs 3 for example). Jesus spends much time explaining this new Kingdom, how to enter into it, and how to remain in it. The long awaited redemption of Israel was fulfilled in Christ, the Messiah. Jew and Gentile alike can now experience the blessing of God's righteousness in the fulfilling of the Abrahamic covenant (Genesis 15). The Apostles continued the Gospel, or "good news" that Israel's redemption and long-awaited Lord has arrived with power and authority, ready and willing to establish a people for Himself.
Not all the Jews realized this was their God acting in dramatic and unanticipated fashion. In Thessalonica in Acts 17, the unbelieving Jews brought "the brethren" to the Roman rulers of the city and cried saying, "These that have turned the world upside down are come hither also...and these all do contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying there is another King, one Jesus".
A true follower of Christ must firmly grasp that this Kingdom is not of this world nor of a particular nation or land with man-made boundaries. Rather, the earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof (Psalm 24:1). The Kingdom of God is universal, within the true believer, and has no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness. To be Kingdom-minded is also to be very aware of fallen man's carnal kingdoms, marking them, and striving to give allegiance solely to Jesus, the Lord and King of God's new Kingdom. For this new Kingdom truly "turns the world upside down".
The Word of God provides the redeemed with guidance and counsel on how to live within earthly kingdoms and yet be fully vested in God's Kingdom. The principles and applications impact nearly all areas of life. Whether we reside in an earthly kingdom that is tolerant or full of persecution and hatred, the believer must give total obeisance to God and remain faithful to the covenant blessing of His Kingdom.
Consider what Peter states in 1st Peter 2:7-12 (and really the whole chapter):
"7 Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, 8 and a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed. 9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: 10 which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. 11 Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; 12 having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation."
God's plan is to restore earth and humanity (whosoever will) to His ways. For His commandants are not grievous and are for our well-being (Proverbs 3 for example). Jesus spends much time explaining this new Kingdom, how to enter into it, and how to remain in it. The long awaited redemption of Israel was fulfilled in Christ, the Messiah. Jew and Gentile alike can now experience the blessing of God's righteousness in the fulfilling of the Abrahamic covenant (Genesis 15). The Apostles continued the Gospel, or "good news" that Israel's redemption and long-awaited Lord has arrived with power and authority, ready and willing to establish a people for Himself.
Not all the Jews realized this was their God acting in dramatic and unanticipated fashion. In Thessalonica in Acts 17, the unbelieving Jews brought "the brethren" to the Roman rulers of the city and cried saying, "These that have turned the world upside down are come hither also...and these all do contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying there is another King, one Jesus".
A true follower of Christ must firmly grasp that this Kingdom is not of this world nor of a particular nation or land with man-made boundaries. Rather, the earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof (Psalm 24:1). The Kingdom of God is universal, within the true believer, and has no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness. To be Kingdom-minded is also to be very aware of fallen man's carnal kingdoms, marking them, and striving to give allegiance solely to Jesus, the Lord and King of God's new Kingdom. For this new Kingdom truly "turns the world upside down".
The Word of God provides the redeemed with guidance and counsel on how to live within earthly kingdoms and yet be fully vested in God's Kingdom. The principles and applications impact nearly all areas of life. Whether we reside in an earthly kingdom that is tolerant or full of persecution and hatred, the believer must give total obeisance to God and remain faithful to the covenant blessing of His Kingdom.
Consider what Peter states in 1st Peter 2:7-12 (and really the whole chapter):
"7 Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, 8 and a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed. 9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: 10 which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. 11 Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; 12 having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation."
Thursday, February 16, 2017
Believe and Confess
It is common for Romans 10:9-11 to be read very narrowly, as if it is some sort of formula for instant and unconditional eternal security.
"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed."
True faith from the heart in the Lord Jesus is the requirement for vindication (God in His love stating "you are right") and then confession of our mouth is made unto salvation and the scripture saith "whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed" (v. 11). The confession of our mouth is a life-long calling. Hence, Jesus is quite serious when he says he who endures to the end shall be saved (Matthew 24:13) and no man putting his hand to the plough and looking back is fit for the kingdom of God (Luke 9:62). The Apostle Paul states, "if we deny Him, He will deny us" (2nd Tim. 2:12). Yet, if we abide in Christ, obedient to the New Covenant purchased for us with innocent blood, we look forward to the crown awaiting us (2nd Tim. 4:6-8).
As disciples of Jesus, we must yield ourselves to the Spirit after we have been purged from our former life of sin and rebellion (2nd Peter 1:9) and therein bear much fruit that the Father may be glorified (John 15:8).
A mere profession of faith is no faith at all unless accompanied by the power of the Spirit to mortify the deeds of the flesh and overcome sin, Satan, and the world. It is far too easy to claim the title of a Christian in this day and time, deceiving oneself that the Gospel is more like a permanent vaccine against hell than a glorious message of individual and corporate redemption.
Zion's Harp #175 - The Faith of the Fathers
v.1 Spirit by whose operation faith and holiness proceed, source of heavenly conversation, strength in weakness, help in need; Spirit, by whose inspiration Prophets and Apostles spake; martyrs bled and tribulation saints endured for Jesus' sake.
v. 4 Give us Joseph's chaste behavior when the world with crafty wiles seeks to draw us from the Savior to herself with frowns or smiles. Give us grace and strength for shunning this ensnaring Potiphar, wisdom to elude her cunning, strength her open hate to bear.
v6. Arm us with Thy true discernment as Elijah, in these days when men, led by superstition, to false idols altars raise. Let us shun a mere profession common in our days and land, witnessing a good profession, even if alone we stand.
Jesus Christ says "But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him." (John 4:23)
"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed."
True faith from the heart in the Lord Jesus is the requirement for vindication (God in His love stating "you are right") and then confession of our mouth is made unto salvation and the scripture saith "whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed" (v. 11). The confession of our mouth is a life-long calling. Hence, Jesus is quite serious when he says he who endures to the end shall be saved (Matthew 24:13) and no man putting his hand to the plough and looking back is fit for the kingdom of God (Luke 9:62). The Apostle Paul states, "if we deny Him, He will deny us" (2nd Tim. 2:12). Yet, if we abide in Christ, obedient to the New Covenant purchased for us with innocent blood, we look forward to the crown awaiting us (2nd Tim. 4:6-8).
As disciples of Jesus, we must yield ourselves to the Spirit after we have been purged from our former life of sin and rebellion (2nd Peter 1:9) and therein bear much fruit that the Father may be glorified (John 15:8).
A mere profession of faith is no faith at all unless accompanied by the power of the Spirit to mortify the deeds of the flesh and overcome sin, Satan, and the world. It is far too easy to claim the title of a Christian in this day and time, deceiving oneself that the Gospel is more like a permanent vaccine against hell than a glorious message of individual and corporate redemption.
Zion's Harp #175 - The Faith of the Fathers
v.1 Spirit by whose operation faith and holiness proceed, source of heavenly conversation, strength in weakness, help in need; Spirit, by whose inspiration Prophets and Apostles spake; martyrs bled and tribulation saints endured for Jesus' sake.
v. 4 Give us Joseph's chaste behavior when the world with crafty wiles seeks to draw us from the Savior to herself with frowns or smiles. Give us grace and strength for shunning this ensnaring Potiphar, wisdom to elude her cunning, strength her open hate to bear.
v6. Arm us with Thy true discernment as Elijah, in these days when men, led by superstition, to false idols altars raise. Let us shun a mere profession common in our days and land, witnessing a good profession, even if alone we stand.
Jesus Christ says "But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him." (John 4:23)
Friday, February 10, 2017
Much more then,...
The glorious plan of salvation for mankind involves two interwoven truths. First, man is incapable of earning forgiveness from God because of a fallen, sinful nature. The death and shedding of Christ's pure blood become the basis for anyone who gladly receives the Gospel. The second truth, which cannot be separated from the first, is that the new believer is given full access to God's grace and a new life in Christ Jesus through His advocacy and intercession. After reconciliation by the blood of our Savior, God's children are given a new nature and actually live in Christ, separated unto God's Kingdom for His purposes and pleasure.
Romans 5:1-11
"Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
"Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement."
Commenting on Philippians 3:10, S.H. Froehlich states, "To be found in Christ is the same as being found in the book of life. But on that day no one can be found in Christ who here and now has not become a new creature in Christ, to keep God's Law, and also to walk as Christ did when he was on earth."
By God's grace through Christ, with access to resurrection power, the called of God can remain faithful unto their end. It is only possible by the two inseparable truths of God's merciful forgiveness through Christ's sacrifice and establishing a new life with the very much alive Redeemer.
Romans 5:1-11
"Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
"Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement."
Commenting on Philippians 3:10, S.H. Froehlich states, "To be found in Christ is the same as being found in the book of life. But on that day no one can be found in Christ who here and now has not become a new creature in Christ, to keep God's Law, and also to walk as Christ did when he was on earth."
By God's grace through Christ, with access to resurrection power, the called of God can remain faithful unto their end. It is only possible by the two inseparable truths of God's merciful forgiveness through Christ's sacrifice and establishing a new life with the very much alive Redeemer.
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