Category: Discipleship

Trespass…

Trespass…

And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. ~ Matthew 6:12 (New Matthew Bible)

Our text comes from one of a few English translations that use the word trespasses instead of sins or debts like we find in the more prominent English translations of the Bible.  I can remember in Catholic Catechism reciting the Lord’s Prayer with the word trespasses; and it has stuck with me.  So, I wanted to research if there are any differences in the meanings of these various words used here.

Looking at the word trespass, we find these definitions in its use as a noun: an unlawful act; a violation of moral or social ethics; wrongdoing; transgression; offense; a breach; sin; or debt. When we trespass, we have made an unwarranted or uninvited incursion into the private or protected space of another.

Looking at the word sin, we find these definitions in its use as a noun: an offense against religious or moral law; a violation that is highly reprehensible; a transgression of the law of God; offense; a breach; trespass; or debt. When we commit a sin, we have encroached upon or violated the rights of another.

Looking at the word debt, we find these definitions in its use as a noun: something owed; an obligation; the state of being under obligation to pay or repay someone in return for something received; a liability; sin; or trespass. Thus, when we are indebted to someone, we have an obligation to repay them what is owed.

With these definitions in view, we can readily see a convergence of meaning regardless of which word is used in the translation; and we would do well to expound on what Jesus was expressing as He taught His disciples and followers how to pray. The primary focus here is on asking forgiveness for our trespasses or sins and the resulting debt or obligation created by our transgressions – whether committed against God or (by extension) other people. From the context, we should understand that we have a debt or obligation owed to God for our sins and trespasses; and our prayer is to receive forgiveness; that is, a cancellation of the debt owed because it is exceedingly beyond our ability to ever repay.

In the Parable of the Unmerciful Servant found in Matthew 18:21-35, we are afforded a penetrating glimpse into the enormity of our own sin debt as Jesus taught the importance of forgiving others their debts or obligations to us. He concluded by asserting the necessity for His disciples and followers (believers) to forgive others for their trespasses, wrongdoings, violations, transgressions, sins, and any other form of indebtedness owed.  As Jesus taught in His Sermon on the Mount: “For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” (Matthew 6:14)

If we carefully ponder these scriptures and lessons, we would do well to realize who has the greater debt to be repaid. The sin debt we owe to our Heavenly Father is far greater than any debt another human being could ever owe to us. For us to contrast the “degree” of our own iniquity toward God with the trespasses of others against us truly misses the point of the message Jesus taught.  Quite frankly, there is no comparison in terms of worthiness to receive forgiveness of sins. None of us is worthy to receive forgiveness of any measure. Forgiveness is an act of mercy … an act of love on the part of the one who forgives (releases the debt). As Paul affirmed: “But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved).” (Cf. Ephesians 2:4-5)

Colossians 2:13-15 (NIV)

When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, having canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; He has taken it away, nailing it to the cross. And having disarmed the powers and authorities, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.

Dear reader, I urge you to refrain from ever considering of how much someone else might owe you for any trespasses committed against you. Whatever their debt to you might be, while justified, does not compare to the debt any one of us owe to God. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 6:23) So, if God in His great love and mercy can choose to forgive you and me through the death of Jesus, then as His children we have the same capacity to forgive one another. Indeed, it is a commandment that we do so!

Colossians 3:12-14 (NIV)

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

Have a Blessed Day!

Content

Content…

I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. ~ Philippians 4:11

In his letter to the believers at Philippi, Paul shares profound insight into the self-discipline necessary for a mature faith in Christ Jesus to persevere. He describes what it takes to attain a faith that will surmount and endure the challenges we will experience in life – contentment. Paul had gone through unimaginable hardship and suffering during his missionary journeys; and yet, his faith seemed to abound all the more through the afflictions he suffered. As he indicates in the text, there is a deep lesson to be “learned” as we walk with Christ and participate in his sufferings. (Cf. Philippians 3:10, 1 Peter 4:13)

Contentment. What does it mean to be content? The word connotes a state of being filled or satisfied. To be content means to be happy, pleased, gratified, or blessed … to the point of complete delight or enjoyment. Being content … feeling full and satisfied is rather easy when you have plenty and the circumstances of life seem in your favor. But Paul indicates that he had cultivated the ability to be content even when he had been unjustly locked in a stock and thrown into the utter darkness of an inner prison dungeon. (Cf. Acts 16:16-40)

Philippians 4:10-13 (NIV)

I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.

In reading the text, we readily understand that contentment is not our natural tendency. When Paul states, “I have learned,” it indicates that at one time he did not know how to be content. Through the difficulties that he suffered in life, Paul learned how to be content in any situation or circumstance. It was a mindset that he attained after many years of experiencing the grace of God in times of trouble.  And so, there is a wonderful lesson Paul affords us for our walks as Christians.

Here are some other scriptures to focus on as we pursue the virtue of contentment:

Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in His glory. Romans 8:17

I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of His resurrection and participation in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death. Philippians 3:10

Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when His glory is revealed. 1 Peter 4:12-13

I believe the secret to contentment is to possess an unwavering focus on the inheritance that is kept in heaven for you. (Cf. 1 Peter 1:3-5) Yes, keep your eyes upon the goal and press onward to attain it. (Cf. Philippians 3:14) Indeed, Christ Jesus is our example – who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Cf. Hebrews 12:2) For “In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will, that we who first trusted in Christ Jesus should be to the praise of His glory. In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory. (Ephesians 1:11-14)

Yes, dear reader, keep your eyes upon Jesus and His redemption! He is the One who provides you with the strength needed to attain contentment in this life. Only in Him will you find true contentment or real delight in any circumstance. Keep your life free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5) For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. (1 Timothy 6:7-8)

Have a Blessed Day!

Righteousness

Righteousness…

“Behold, the days are coming,” says the Lord, “That I will raise to David a Branch of Righteousness; a King shall reign and prosper, and execute judgment and righteousness in the earth. In His days Judah will be saved, and Israel will dwell safely; now this is His name by which He will be called: THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS. ~ Jeremiah 23:5-6

In Genesis 15:6 we read that Abraham believed in the Lord, and He accounted it to him for righteousness.  In Deuteronomy 6:25, Moses conveyed that the righteousness of God revealed in His Law would be conferred upon those who are careful to observe it (obey it).  In Psalm 7:17, David exclaimed: “I will praise the Lord according to His righteousness, and will sing praise to the name of the Lord Most High.” Yes, “The Lord has made known His salvation; His righteousness He has revealed in the sight of the nations.” Psalm 98:2

Throughout the sacred writings of the Old Testament, we are informed of the righteousness of God through His creation, His commandments and ordinances, and His Prophets:

“The Heavens declare His righteousness, and all the peoples see His glory.” Psalm 97:6 “Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and Your Law is truth.” Psalm 119:142 “My tongue shall speak of Your word, for all Your commandments are righteousness.” Psalm 119:172

And, “No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgment You shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is from Me,” says the Lord.” Isaiah 54:17

Righteousness, that state or status of being in a right relationship with God, is a gracious gift of mercy granted by Him to those who believe. It was his faith that positioned Abraham to be credited with righteousness by God.  When he believed God at His Word, Abraham received the righteousness that comes through faith … as Paul greatly expounds in Romans 4:1-8. In revealing His Commandments through Moses, believers were afforded the wisdom of how to live in a right relationship with God … and with one another. (Galatians 3:21) And yet, grace upon grace, the righteousness of God has been made known to us; indeed, demonstrated to us in Christ Jesus!

Romans 3:21-26 (NIV)

21 But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. 22 This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and all are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. 25 God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of His blood—to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance He had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished— 26 He did it to demonstrate His righteousness at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus.

I believe it is important for us to understand that righteousness is a gift of God … imputed to us on the basis of faith in Him through faith in Jesus Christ – because we have no inherent righteousness within ourselves. (Cf. Titus 3:4-6) As the Prophet testified:

Isaiah 64:5-6 (NIV)

You come to the help of those who gladly do right, who remember your ways.
But when we continued to sin against them, you were angry. How then can we be saved? All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away.

Yes, and consider what King David affirmed: “Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man against whom the Lord counts no iniquity, and in whose spirit, there is no deceit.” (Psalm 32:1-2)

As a believer, you are in Christ Jesus and have received the righteousness of God through Him.  Yes, Jesus became for us wisdom from God – and righteousness and sanctification and redemption. (1 Corinthians 1:30) “For the Father made Jesus who knew no sin to be a sin offering for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” (2 Corinthians 5:21) So, awake to righteousness, and do not sin! (1 Corinthians 15:34) “You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds;and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” (Ephesians 4:22-24)

My friend, living in obedience to Christ Jesus and His commandments should be our grateful response to His merciful gift of imputed righteousness! Yes, to offer ourselves as living sacrifices is our reasonable service – our spiritual act of worship. (Cf. Romans 12:1) So I pray that we will pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace along with one another. (Cf. 2 Timothy 2:22)

Have a Blessed Day!

Grow

Grow…

Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation. ~ 1 Peter 2:2

A new believer … an infant disciple and follower of Jesus … has an unfamiliar and challenging journey of faith ahead of them.  Like newborn babies, we must learn to sit up and crawl before we can walk.  We are first nourished with milk before we have teeth strong enough to eat solid food. (Cf. Hebrews 5:13-14) The born-again experience is simply the beginning of a new life in Christ Jesus; and from there, we are admonished to grow in every aspect of grace that faith brings us as we progress in maturity. Indeed, Peter admonishes us to live holy and godly lives in light of the soon return of our Lord Jesus! (2 Peter 3) And we can do so as we grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. (2 Peter 3:18)

Now, more than ever, we need to be growing in grace. It is only through the Gospel that we truly understand the manifold graces of God. For in Jesus, we receive and experience the incomparable riches of God’s grace. In Him we have redemption through His blood and the forgiveness of sins. (Ephesians 1:7) Through Him we receive peace with God and receive eternal life! (John 3:36) Yes, these are just some of the expressions of God’s unmerited lovingkindness toward us in His Son. (Cf. 1 John 4:9-10; Ephesians 2:6-7) So, let us grow in full understanding of His grace in order to grow up in our salvation.

Likewise, in this generation of the Church, we need to be growing in knowledge of our Lord Jesus; increasing in all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; and abounding in the grace that produced our faith through the Word of God, so that we can live lives worthy of the callings we have received. (Cf. Colossians 1:9-14) Each one of us needs to find our spiritual giftings and take our place of service in the Body of Christ, so that corporately we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of Him who is the head, that is, Christ. From Him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. (Cf. Ephesians 4:1-16)

My friends, growth is a natural process both physically and spiritually. It is readily seen in our human maturation process; and we can certainly ascertain if our spiritual growth is keeping in step. Our Lord Jesus has called us all to flourish in body, soul, and spirit! We are fashioned for growth through the exercising of our Holy Spirit appointed roles within the Church … fulfilling the good works that God ordained in advance for us to do. (Ephesians 2:10)

So, today I pray that we will always be diligent and passionate in our pursuit of spiritual growth! Let us persevere in every act produced by faith, every effort prompted by love, and every hope inspired by our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Thessalonians 1:3) Yes, let us stay connected to the glorious Head so that the whole Body will grow has God causes it to grow. (Colossians 2:19) Amen.

Have a Blessed Day!

Hour…

Hour…

“Now my soul is troubled, and what shall I say? ‘Father, save me from this hour’? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour. Father, glorify your name!” ~ John 12:27-28

I find it interesting that Jesus felt troubled in His soul when the approaching hour of His ultimate test would come.  In His human form, Jesus too was subjected to weakness and temptation in every way, just as we are – yet He did not sin. (Cf. Hebrews 4:15) Jesus did not coward from His purpose or His mission. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost. (Luke 19:10) And His death would be a sacrifice of atonement. Indeed, Jesus is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not for ours only, but for the sins of the whole world. (1 John 2:2)

How often do we become troubled in our souls as we commit ourselves to the calling and purpose of God upon our own lives? Do we meet with resistance from others? Jesus did! He came to His own people, and even they rejected Him. (John 1:11) Yes, He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. (Isaiah 53:3a) And yet, for the joy set before Him, Jesus endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:2)

Oh, there is a powerful lesson here if we would but grasp it and fix our eyes upon Jesus. You, too, will be tested as you serve God. Yes, in faith you responded to His call upon your life. In faith, you vowed to be obedient and to accomplish the mission you were assigned to fulfill. And from experience, your most difficult challenges have come from your own … your own family … your own friends … your own church. Do not be dismayed when your greatest distractions and discouragement come from those you thought most unlikely to do so. Remember, even Jesus was betrayed by one of His chosen disciples.

I am grateful that the Apostle Paul shared some additional insight for us to consider before we throw in the towel or surrender to our temporal emotions during the heat of the battle. “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.” (Ephesians 6:12-13) Indeed, your challenges come from the Adversary who is at always at work to prevent you from glorying God through your good deeds in your hour.

My dear friends, when Jesus was troubled in His soul, He first had to surmount all the human frustrations and emotions that besieged Him. And then He questioned, “Should I let pain or suffering deter me from what the Father sent me to do?” “Should I pray for divine rescue from the difficult circumstances that God had already allowed to test my faith?” What did Jesus conclude? “No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour. Father, glorify your name!” Yes, like Jesus, our resolve should be to remain steadfast in the good works that God prepared in advance for us to do. (Ephesians 2:10)

John 15:7-12 (NIV)

If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in His love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.

Have a Blessed Day!

Fallen…

Fallen…

But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. ~ Revelation 2:4-5

This first of seven letters written to the churches in Asia Minor, recorded in Revelation Chapters 2-3, begins with a commendation of the Church at Ephesus. Jesus affirms their righteous works and faithfulness; and yet, He soon points out a deficit in their relationship with Him:

Revelation 2:1-5 (ESV)

1 “To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: ‘The words of Him who holds the seven stars in His right hand, who walks among the seven golden lampstands. 2 “‘I know your works, your toil and your patient endurance, and how you cannot bear with those who are evil, but have tested those who call themselves apostles and are not, and found them to be false. 3 I know you are enduring patiently and bearing up for my name’s sake, and you have not grown weary. 4 But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. 5 Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. If not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent.

Jesus appears to be grieved and wounded by their abandonment of intimacy with Him. The love they had at first – their hearts bonded to Him through the lovingkindness and atonement forged on the cross had begun to diminish. The spiritual blessings of being united to Him seemingly had begun to wane. It was no longer their love of Jesus that inspired and motivated their works of service; rather, their works had become the focus more than the Holy One whom they had been called to worship. The joy of salvation and the blessing of tender communion with Jesus had been overtaken by a sense of duty rather than an expression of love….

Jesus rebukes and calls for repentance.  He enjoins us: “Remember therefore from where you have FALLEN! The word itself conjures up images of dropping or coming down from a higher place, level, or position. It evokes a sense of being overtaken or conquered … even to the point of death. It is a strong word used here … and I think for emphasis on the tragic consequences that abandonment brings to a relationship. To abandon our love for Jesus? Who would have ever imagined that could happen? Look at their commendable works and service. And yet, Jesus instructs them to repent and to return to their first love….

Since the time of my heart procedure, I have contemplated at length the condition of my own spiritual heart … and its need for correction as well. After 35 years of following and serving the Lord Jesus, I have found myself as well in a state where spiritual refreshment has languished … where the spring of living water has begun to evaporate in a parched and thirsty land. Although I have been an avid student of the Word; practiced the discipline of prayer; attended church and served on the worship team; held positions of church leadership as a deacon or elder; given tithes and offerings; supported missionaries; and provided to those who are impoverished; I have noticed an empty, hollow space in my heart that has troubled me. If we are honest, I think this might be something many of us experience from time-to-time in our walk with Jesus. I am reminded of the story of Mary and Martha during a visitation with Jesus:

Luke 10:38-42 (ESV)

Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to His teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to Him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”

This was the same Mary who anointed Jesus with expensive ointment (spikenard) a few days before His crucifixion as recorded in John 12:1-8. So, why are these passages and their images important to understand the meaning of our study text? Because sometimes we can become so busy doing things for God, that we lose affection for Him who wrought so great salvation for us. No doubt, Martha was well intentioned in serving Jesus; but Jesus seems to indicate that our works are secondary to worship! His presence supersedes our purpose! We need to be careful that the tremendous wonder and glory of our salvation itself does not begin to dissipate within the busyness of life and service toward others. While works are an appropriate response to our redemption and rebirth, the one thing most needed is an intimate love for God and to dwell in His presence with immeasurable awe and reverence. First and foremost, He is our first love!

1 John 4:9-10 (ESV)

“This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.”

Do you see how His love for us is rooted in His mercy and salvation? Our love for Him is simply responsive to His salvific purpose. As King David declared: “For you, O Lord, have made me glad by your work; at the works of your hands I sing for joy. How great are your works, O Lord! Your thoughts are very deep! (Psalm 92:4-5) Yet, somehow this adoration, this worship, this first love can diminish in our lives. I believe Revelation 2:4-5 is a wake-up call to bring our attention to what can happen even to servants who have endeavored to engage in commendable service.

Love is supreme! Love is utmost! Love must come first! Thus, we are reminded to consider from where we have fallen; to repent and to do the first works of love. Love expressed through adoration and worship is what matters most. Everything else stems from and completes His love in us. We love because He first loved us! Yes, God activated His love within us! So let us remember to love Him first because of His merciful atonement … His gracious redemption … His forbearance and longsuffering … His unmerited salvation … His gift of eternal life. These are the inner motivations of praise and thanksgiving … honor and worship. Yes, these are the “first works of love” to which we must return.

My friends, let us meditate on this word from Isaiah 29:13, The Lord says: “These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. Their worship of me is in vain. It based on merely human rules they have been taught.” Indeed, worship IS our first love … our first work to be expressed. I pray above all else that we will remember WHO we serve and why we serve Him! Yes, remember the purpose of our service is to love others as we have been loved.  Indeed, I pray we will renew our hearts once again!

Have a Blessed Day!

Jealous…

Jealous…

Be careful not to forget the covenant of the Lord your God that He made with you; do not make for yourselves an idol in the form of anything the Lord your God has forbidden. For the Lord your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God. ~ Deuteronomy 4:23-24

What does it mean for God to be “jealous”? We see this anthropomorphic attribute given prominence in the Old Testament, and further application of it in the New Testament scriptures.  The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines the emotional term as: “One who is intolerant of rivalry or unfaithfulness; vigilant in guarding a possession.” The use of this term becomes quite appropriate when we consider that God “chose” His people to be His treasured “possession;” and yet, His beloved became idolatrous and worshipped other gods….

Let’s examine some of the scriptures that reference the context of God’s jealousy for His elect:

Exodus 20:4-6 (NIV)

You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments. (Cf. Deuteronomy 5:8-10)

Exodus 34:14 (NIV)

Do not worship any other god, for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God.

Deuteronomy 32:15-19 (NIV)

They abandoned the God who made them and rejected the Rock their Savior. They made Him jealous with their foreign gods and angered Him with their detestable idols. They sacrificed to false gods, which are not God— gods they had not known, gods that recently appeared, gods your ancestors did not fear. You deserted the Rock, who fathered you; you forgot the God who gave you birth. The Lord saw this and rejected them because He was angered by His sons and daughters.

Israel made God jealous and angered Him because of their rebellious unfaithfulness. Joshua said to the people, “You are not able to serve the Lord. He is a holy God; He is a jealous God. He will not forgive your rebellion and your sins. (Joshua 24:19) Asaph the Psalmist, in Psalm 78, reviewed the historical unfaithful relationship of Israel to the Lord after their conquest and settlement of Canaan – the Promised Land. Still, after their judgement and exile, the Prophet Ezekiel would provide this hope:

Ezekiel 16:41-43 (NIV)

“I will put a stop to your prostitution, and you will no longer pay your lovers. Then my wrath against you will subside and my jealous anger will turn away from you; I will be calm and no longer angry. “‘Because you did not remember the days of your youth but enraged me with all these things, I will surely bring down on your head what you have done, declares the Sovereign Lord. Did you not add lewdness to all your other detestable practices?

My friends, what we need to understand is that we have been chosen by the Sovereign God of all creation for an intimate relationship with Him. Our communion with the Father is prefaced on His great love and mercy for us. We have been betrothed to Him. Isaiah declared: “For your Maker is your husband— the Lord Almighty is His name— the Holy One of Israel is your Redeemer; He is called the God of all the earth. (Isaiah 54:5) Jeremiah recited: “I Myself said, “‘How gladly would I treat you like my children and give you a pleasant land, the most beautiful inheritance of any nation. I thought you would call me ‘Father’ and not turn away from following me. But like a woman unfaithful to her husband, so you, Israel, have been unfaithful to me,” declares the Lord. (Jeremiah 3:19-20) And Hosea prophesied: “In that day,” declares the Lord, “you will call me ‘my husband’; you will no longer call me ‘my master.’” (Hosea 2:16) Yes, “I will betroth you to Me forever; I will betroth you with righteousness and justice; with love and compassion. I will betroth you with faithfulness, and you will acknowledge the Lord. (Hosea 2:19-20)

So, let us consider the application for our walk of faith. Paul uses the same analogy regarding the fidelity of our relationship with Christ Jesus. He wrote: “I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy. I have betrothed you to one husband, to Christ, so that I might present you as a pure virgin to Him. But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ.” (2 Corinthians 11:2-3)

Here Paul is addressing believers and their propensity to follow the idols of their hearts; to not follow the leading of the Holy Spirit within them to pursue holiness and pure devotion to our Savior. I sense that the ease with which we dismiss our sin of self-idolatry under the banner of grace needs to be reexamined. Too often, a believe will excuse their sin and affection of the world as “being human.” I think Paul would answer:

Romans 6:1-7 (NIV)

“What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase?By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. For if we have been united with Him in a death like His, we will certainly also be united with Him in a resurrection like His. For we know that our old self was crucified with Him so that the body ruled by sin might be rendered powerless so that we should no longer be slaves to sin— because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.

And Peter concurred: “Therefore, since Christ suffered in His body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin. As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God. For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. (1 Peter 4:1-3)

And James reminds us:

James 4:4-5 (NIV)

You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God. Or do you think Scripture says without reason that He jealously longs for the spirit He has caused to dwell in us?

Dear reader, let us seek sincere fidelity within the covenant of love that the Father has ordained for us through His Son, Jesus. I pray you will review these scriptures on your own and examine your own heart. God chose you to believe in His Son! You are His elect! He loves you with an everlasting love. He has given you His precious promises. Therefore, He is most jealous for us! We are called to be faithful to our Maker who is our Husband— the Lord Almighty is His name.

Have a Blessed Day!

Deny…

Deny…

I write to you, not because you do not know the truth, but because you know it, and because no lie is of the truth. Who is the liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, he who denies the Father and the Son. No one who denies the Son has the Father. Whoever confesses the Son has the Father also. ~ 1 John 2:21-23

When we think about the word “deny” in the teachings of Jesus, most often we think about His saying: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.” (Cf. Matthew 16:24-25; Mark 8:34-35; Luke 9:23-24) Indeed, this is a primary focus of how we abide in Christ and He in us. It is the initial action of our sanctification … to separate ourselves from the world and to set ourselves apart for service unto the Father. As we have been admonished in 1 Peter 14-16: “As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.” (Cf: Leviticus 11:44, 45; 19:2)

But I think there is a greater significance to the word “deny” in the Scriptures as emphasized in our key verse above. The one who denies that Jesus is the Messiah (Christ) is considered a liar and an antichrist. John asserts that to deny Jesus is tantamount to the denial of God the Father. Indeed, the judgment of all people rests upon the acceptance or denial of Jesus.

John 3:16-18 (NIV)

For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him. Whoever believes in Him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.

Romans 14:10-12 (NIV)

You, then, why do you judge your brother or sister? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat. It is written: “‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord,
‘every knee will bow before me; every tongue will acknowledge God.’” (Cf. Isaiah 45:23) So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.

Philippians 2:9-11 (NIV)

Therefore, God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Dear reader, I pray that you have not denied the Lord Jesus as our Messiah, the Son of the Living God.  And I pray that if you claim to know Jesus but deny Him by your actions (Cf. Titus 1:16), you would further examine yourself to see whether you are in the faith. Yes, test yourself. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you – unless, of course, you fail the test? (Cf. 2 Corinthians 13:5) And if you do confess Jesus as Lord to the glory of God the Father, then I pray you and I will deny ourselves, take up our crosses daily, and follow Him in all obedience.  For Jesus affirmed, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” (Cf. John 14:15)

Have a Blessed Day!

Sincere…

Sincere…

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. ~ Romans 12:8

Today I want us to consider the idea of being sincere. The word “sincere” means to be free of pretense or deceit; not dishonest or hypocritical; proceeding from pure, true, genuine feelings. To be sincere is to be wholehearted; heartfelt; and unfeigned. Does that describe your love for God? Is your love for one another sincere … as the Lord Jesus loves each of us?

When Jesus was tested by the religious rulers, He was questioned: “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?”Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ (Quoting Deuteronomy 6:5) This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ (Quoting Leviticus 19:18) All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matthew 22:36-40)

Observe that Jesus said the first and greatest commandment is to love the Lord your God! Do you think the genuineness of your love is unknown to Him who created all things? Is He unable to discern the sincerity of your love for Him? Jesus told His disciples, “If you love me, keep my commands.” (John 14:15) Was this a mere suggestion or recommendation? “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. (John 15:9) Consider the implication when Jesus replied to the religious leaders: “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I have come here from God. I have not come on my own; God sent me.” (John 8:42)

I believe each of us needs to revisit these words: “These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. Their worship of me is based on merely human rules they have been taught.” (Isaiah 29:13) Jesus said, “Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and His worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” (John 4:23-24) And, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow Me.” (Luke 9:23)

Reader, if you truly desire to be sincere in faith and in love, it will require some honest introspection. As Paul urged the believers in Corinth: “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?” (2 Corinthians 13:5) And to the churches in Galatia he admonished, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps whatever he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. (Galatians 6:7-8) It is my prayer that you and I will wholeheartedly love and serve the Lord Jesus – for He knows the truth! Therefore, let us rid ourselves of all deceit and hypocrisy.

Have a Blessed Day!

Follow…

Follow…

As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, He saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” At once they left their nets and followed Him. (Matthew 4:18-20)

I never cease to be fascinated with the stories of people who encountered Jesus as captured for us in the New Testament Scriptures. Jesus invited ordinary people to come to Him first; and then, He told them to follow Him. In Luke 5:1-11, this encounter with Jesus is shared in greater detail, but the outcome is unchanged: They pulled their boats up on shore, left everything, and followed Jesus!

How intriguing and compelling Jesus must have been to them! How irresistible His captivating presence must have felt! These fishermen immediately left everything – their very lives as they had known them up to that moment – to follow Jesus. What a testimony of their conviction and faith! I scare know anyone who has immediately left everything to follow Jesus; and yet, that is what He expects of us….

In Matthew 19:16-30, we read about another encounter. A rich young man met with Jesus to question Him about obeying the Law and eternal life. 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. Oh, there is no doubt that to follow Jesus will require sacrifice on our part. Indeed, Jesus has affirmed to us all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” (Luke 9:23)

In spite the cost and self-denial required to follow Jesus, there are great blessings for doing so! Jesus declared, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12) Whoever follows Jesus will know His voice and never follow a stranger. (John 10:4-5) Whoever follows Jesus will serve Him; and where He is, His servants will also be. (John 12:26) These are just a few of the innumerable riches of grace Jesus imparts to us.  Indeed, to follow Jesus is to love Him wholeheartedly … withholding nothing within our beings from Him….

My friends, there is an incredible life to be received and experienced when we come to Jesus Christ and follow Him. He redeems us from the old-self … the old way of life. He empowers us walk in newness of life! (Romans 6:3-5) We become new creations; old things pass away; behold, all things have become new! (2 Corinthians 5:17) Yes, come to Jesus! Follow Him! He is the Way and the Truth and the Life.  No one comes to the Father except through Him. (John 14:6)

Have a Blessed Day!