What is Complete Biblical Forgiveness?

“Forgive and forget” this is the old saying. Many times putting this into practice is much harder. It can be difficult to truly reconcile with one whom we’ve had conflict. Many of us can just have trouble letting some things. When the hurt runs deep true forgiveness can be a real challenge. To “forgive” while refusing to reconcile with the other person is no forgiveness at all. Intentional Reconciliation

15When Joseph's brothers saw that their father was dead, they said, "What if Joseph bears a grudge against us and pays us back in full for all the wrong which we did to him!" 16So they sent a message to Joseph, saying, "Your father charged before he died, saying, 17'Thus you shall say to Joseph, "Please forgive, I beg you, the transgression of your brothers and their sin, for they did you wrong."' And now, please forgive the transgression of the servants of the God of your father." And Joseph wept when they spoke to him. 18Then his brothers also came and fell down before him and said, "Behold, we are your servants." 19But Joseph said to them, "Do not be afraid, for am I in God's place? 20"As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive. 21"So therefore, do not be afraid; I will provide for you and your little ones." So he comforted them and spoke kindly to them. Genesis 50

This familiar passage gives us a pattern of biblical forgiveness. Joseph, hated by his brothers, sold into slavery, is placed in a position great power by God’s design. Instead of planning out his revenge, Joseph forgives and embraces his brothers. No one would have blamed him for holding a grudge, but Joseph shows how God’s love reigns in his life.

Our Number One Priority

22"But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be guilty before the court; and whoever says to his brother, 'You good-for-nothing,' shall be guilty before the supreme court; and whoever says, 'You fool,' shall be guilty enough to go into the fiery hell. 23"Therefore if you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24leave your offering there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering. Matthew 5.

Jesus makes it extremely clear that for believers, failure or refusal to reconcile is not an option – it is sin. Jesus teaches that is doesn’t even matter who is at fault in any disagreement; the believer is responsible to attempt to resolve the conflict. Christ goes on to say that a believer has no place at worship as long as he or she knows that there is an existing unresolved conflict with another. His instruction is that the worshiper must leave and pursue reconciliation with that person. Only after this is he or she to return to worship. This excludes the excuse of needing time or ignoring the other person. No this is direct interaction /communication with active forgiveness/reconciliation.

Complete Forgiveness God’s Way

12So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; 13(bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. 14Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. 15Let)the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful. Colossians 3

Paul explains what type of forgiveness is acceptable to God in the scripture as well as in Ephesians. When it comes to granting forgiveness, there are no exceptions. The scripture clearly teaches that believers must always be characterized by the same attitudes and characteristics that are in Christ. They must forgive those who wronged them — EXACTLY in the same manner that they had been forgiven by Christ.

In many ways, these can be hard words for us to hear. For some of us, these passages do exactly what they are intended to do — remind us of forgiveness that we have refused to grant and to remember the forgiveness we have received. We did not pursue Christ’s forgiveness – rather He pursued us! What are we to do when … we are wronged — or worse yet, someone we care about is wronged — and we get angry. We may confront the offender. We want him or her to hurt like we hurt to endure an acceptable amount of punishment. So what happens? We “hold” and often “nurse a grudge.” Every time we see, hear about or think of him or her, the anger reignites inside of us and that old wound is reopened. We are not the judge. Do not set yourself above God. He has commanded our action. He and He alone is the righter of wrongs. Allow His grace to work you through the wrong to true forgiveness. Within yourself you would be unable to do what only God can command and give us the power to obey.

If you don’t forgive then where is the “fruit of the Spirit”? — To display any other type of attitude fails to honor and glorify God. It is SIN! When we try to do it in our own flesh we will fail. The resentment we keep inside can make us physically and emotionally ill – it will affect those we love. This will only serve to separate us from fellowship with God. It impairs our ability to be led by the Holy Spirit.

God’s Word make this truth very clear- if we call ourselves followers of Christ, we have to forgive those whom we feel have done us wrong. What then if the other person refuses our attempt to make things right? That part is not up to us — we can’t force reconciliation, but be sure you have truly attempted with all of your heart and have left no doubt in the other person’s mind of your intentions.

By an act of desire to love Christ and to fulfill His commands to love one another while relying on the power of the indwelling Spirit, we must forgive as Jesus has forgiven us. This means complete forgiveness. Complete restoration of the relationship. This means a willingness to be hurt again and again. Just as Christ has done for us every time we return to Him seeking forgiveness and reconciliation. He doesn’t tell us that after we have proven ourselves and earned His trust that He will fellowship with us again. NO! It is complete forgiveness – strings attached. We are called to this level of forgiveness. This is true forgiveness - it is in an expression of grace. Only then will we understand what it means to have “peace of Christ ruling in our hearts.”

sherman

The Nature of Love

1 Peter 4:7 The end of all things is near; therefore, be of sound judgment and sober spirit for the purpose of prayer.8 Above all, akeep fervent in your love for one another, because blove covers a multitude of sins.9 Be hospitable to one another without complaint.

If you are sober (realizing the our unworthiness of the grace we have received - and the serious need of the message we bear) in spirit and having sweet communion with God, then you ought to be looking where that should lead us to - to a love fervent.

The word "fervent," ektenes, means to be stretched, to be strained.

It means intense, strenuous, reaching as far as you can reach to the limit of your capacity. Since you are a Christian and since being a Christian means you love the brethren, "fervently love one another from the heart, for you have been born again." This is a fundamental Christian truth. He is not speaking a fluffy kind of sentimentalism which some used to call "sloppy agape". Peter is talking about a demanding love. He's talking about an intense love. He is talking about a sacrificial love.

So just how do you accomplish this feat? You first have to get over yourself. You have to be willing to love the unlovely, the unlovable, loving your enemies, loving those who despised you, loving when it seems unreasonable, loving to the point of sacrifice - to where it costs and it hurts. This means loving the unlovable in spite of insult, in spite of injury, in spite of being rejected, in spite of being mistreated and misrepresented.

1 Corinthians 13 puts it this way: "Love is patient, love is kind, is not jealous, love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly, it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth, bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things and never fails."

It can take anything from anyone at any time. It believes the best. It hopes for the best. It endures the worst.

Why love the brethren this way? "Because love covers a multitude of sins." Love forgives and forgives and forgives.

Proverbs 10:12. "Hatred stirs up strife but love covers all sins."

Love always hides a multitude of sins. Why did God show mercy to us? Why did God forgive our sins?

Ephesians 2:4-5 "For His great love where with He loved us."

Do you want to live right before God? To be biblically and spiritually minded. To have deep in communion with Christ. Then be so full of overflowing love that you cover sin. This is not speaking of an unrepentant person. But rather we are not to be more anxious to point out sin than we are to cover it over.

Hatred, selfishness both stir up strife. Selfishness will stir up strife. Love will cover up sin in silence.

The whole spirit of this is much bigger than just those we are like, it's embracing the fact that we are to love people outside our normal circle and to do it without grumbling, without murmuring, without begrudging. There is to be overflowing love toward those we don't know, an opening of our heart to them.

What then is the Christian's place in this world? It is to pursue holiness with God, to pursue others with the love of God so that we cover their sins, so that God using us will meet their needs whether they are a friend or stranger.

Colossians 3:14, "Above all things put on love which is the perfect bond of unity."

sherman

The Weightier Matters…

Matthew 23:23 "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cummin, and have neglected the weightier provisions of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness; but these are the things you should have done without neglecting the others.


In Matthew 23:23 we find this term, “the weightier matters of the law”. What is meant by this term in the context of the passage? What does this have to do with me or you today?

Let us first look at these terms: justice, mercy, and faithfulness.

Justice: This term refers to dealing with people and situations in a righteous manner. This infers that we are not to take sides or be unduly influenced. We are to deal out judgment in a God fearing manner. If judgment is required one must make sure the punishment fits the crime. Judging things objectively by God’s standards not mans, not trying to life up ourselves at others expense.

Mercy: This term speaks of compassion, kindness, pity, and empathy. The application of justice must be tempered with mercy. Consider the mercy that God has shown to you as you deal with others. Intertwined in acts of mercy is the principle of godly forgiveness. Not based on a person merit but their underserved needs.

Faithfulness: This word relates to our beliefs translated into actions. This is a type of belief that effects and permeates every aspect of your life. It is belief in that what God has shown us in His word and love is far better than the temporal pleasures of this passing world. One who is faithful will act in loving justice and mercy as they serve the risen Lord.

It is of note that the first two words pertain mainly to our relationships toward other people. The last word refers to our relationship to the Holy God. These are the principle foundations of God’s Law. Loving God first and foremost, and then loving your neighbor as yourself.

The religious leaders by their omission of the “weightier matters” were blocking the way to know the Lord. They had created a god of their own making to serve their own interest. The ramifications were staggering on those who sought to know and truly understand God.

Matthew 23:13 " But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, because you shut off the kingdom of heaven from people; for you do not enter in yourselves, nor do you allow those who are entering to go in.

These weightier things must be given our full attention. If God considers them of great importance should we not take note? Justice, mercy, and faith are the essential and fundamental characteristics of the servant of God. These have never changed. These principles are as true today as ever

In Luke 11:42 we find a parallel passage. It describes mercy as the love of God.

If you do not show the love of God to those people in your daily life, How can the love of God abide in your heart?

Luke 11: 42 "But woe to you Pharisees! For you pay tithe of mint and rue and every kind of garden herb, and yet disregard justice and the love of God; but these are the things you should have done without neglecting the others.

This is a timeless theme throughout God’s word. God’s people will reflect God’s character. It is the mercy of God that saves one from His righteous judgment. It is the faithfulness of God towards us that keeps our salvation from failing.

Micah 6:7 Does the LORD take delight in thousands of rams, In ten thousand rivers of oil? Shall I present my firstborn for my rebellious acts, The fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? 8 He has told you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you But to do justice, to love kindness, And to walk humbly with your God?

God’s mercy and faithfulness towards the repentant broken sinner is humbling. We deserve God’s righteous judgment, but yet He loved us while we were yet in sin. If you withhold mercy and justice from others, if you walk in the pride of self-righteousness, you as the Pharisees will lead people away from the kingdom of God. You will not only bring judgment and condemnation on yourself but the blood of others will be on your head as well.

Proverbs 22:2 Every man's way is right in his own eyes, But the LORD weighs the hearts. 3 To do righteousness and justice Is desired by the LORD more than sacrifice 4 Haughty eyes and a proud heart, The lamp of the wicked, is sin.

Be sure you do not neglect the weightier matters of God’s law. But rather let the hope and love of Christ overflow in your life into the lives of others. Give them the hope of the springs of living water.

John 4:13 Jesus answered and said to her, "Everyone who drinks of this water will thirst again; 14ut whoever drinks of the water that I will give him shall never thirst; but the water that I will give him will become in him a well of water springing up to eternal life."

sherman

But God being rich in mercy… (Part 4)

Ephesians2:4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), 6 and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.

We find in Daniel 4:28-37 the story of Nebuchadnezzar. God judged him for his pride and refusal to acknowledge God as the source of his position and power. God placed him into a state anyone would judge as insane. He remained that way until God restored him to his right mind.
In verse 35 he says “And no one can ward off His hand”. This was the most powerful man in the world yet he was unable to control or resist God’s actions. He is sovereign.

What does this have to do with the scripture at hand? Much. This story illustrates the regeneration of Ephesians 2. This is the point. Even when we were dead we were made alive. We couldn’t change our state neither could we resist the change. In much the same manner when Nebuchadnezzar was given back his sanity there is no way he would or could have chosen to go back into his insanity.

But God being rich in mercy…this is the reason behind your salvation if you belong to Christ. Not your superior intellect, your wiser decision making, not your expansive cranial cavity. No it is all of God, nothing from within you.

This doctrine is extremely important. It will affect your view of everything in scripture and in this world. It will either be God centered or man centered. God the Father purposed your salvation from eternity past, the Son accomplished your redemption on the cross validated by His resurrection, and The Holy Spirit has applied that salvation to your soul. Christ died particularly for His elect. And if it is His work it is finished. There is no chance that you can mess it up. This is the real rest that God speaks of in Hebrews 3 and 4.

God’s sovereignty is responsible for your salvation. It is because of His great mercy and compassion exercised toward us. God deserves all of the glory honor and praise for your salvation.


Isaiah 42:8"I am the LORD, that is My name;
I will not give My glory to another,
Nor My praise to graven images.

It doesn’t end there. God brought from death into life for a purpose. We
are not saved by any good works even those God has prepared for us in
eternity past [Ephesians 2:10]. This is all the work of God.

You do not have to understand God’s sovereignty to get saved. But
afterwards looking back at the how and why it certainly puts a different
perspective on the act of salvation unto eternal life.

Now go forth and do these good works that God has prepared for you. It
is to share the love of God with others. The Holy Spirit is shed aboard
in our hearts not so that we can keep it to our selves. God always uses
means to accomplish His sovereign will. The question really is will you
obey God and live a life that brings glory and honor to His name? His
will is accomplished with or without our cooperation. Where man rules
God overrules!

sherman

But God being rich in mercy ... (Part 3)

Ephesians 2: 1 And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, 2 in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience. 3 Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest.

Men do evil things because men by nature are evil. Even what good we do - we do for our own misguided purposes. This section of scripture carries on the thought that spiritually dead men cannot save them selves.

This is written to believers. I think this is an important thought to keep in mind. The idea no the truth of God’s sovereignty in salvation is never something taught to the lost but rather to the believer. So that when we look back on our state we can give all glory to God. Not thinking there was something good in us or better than someone else. It all depends upon God’s mercy.

We did not enter this world with a pure nature. Paul makes it clear that the redeemed once lived among the heathen of this world. We followed hard after this world. We worked hard at sinning. Feeding our passions yet unfulfilled. Sin driving us on to consume more and more of this world's pleasures.

Jeremiah 9:5 "Everyone deceives his neighbor And does not speak the truth, They have taught their tongue to speak lies; They weary themselves committing iniquity.

It is our native language “sin”. This is the natural man. Paul says we are by nature (just who we are) children of wrath. This is who we are without Christ.

There is nothing in us to make us commendable to God. We cannot remove the blot of sin, nor change our rebellious nature. It is something that must be wrought by God. Man is very religious – but he is more interested in a god of his own making. One that will approve or somehow ignore his sin. We are but slaves to sin – free from righteousness. This is the freewill we exercise. A will that shakes its fist at a holy Lord.

We do not want God’s grace or mercy in our flesh. We simply want to be left alone

It takes a miracle to change the desperately wicked heart of man. It took one in my life. Where men think they rule God will overrule? This is the truth of man’s condition. Dead. Hopeless. Headed for Hell. A child of satan.

All you can do in this state is to cry out to the Lord for mercy.

What is the message your church preach? What message is it that you preach? Is it a message to try and reason people into the kingdom of God? Is it a message of just needing to change directions to get a better life? Then that is not the true gospel.

We must preach the holiness of God and the sinfulness and utter helplessness of man. If a person is saved knowing he deserves hell and can never save himself. That he must trust only in the finished work of Christ, then his confidence will rest in the work of God and nothing else.

I fear many today trust in an isle they walk, a prayer, a preacher, a song or a feeling. We can only find true salvation in Christ not in any work of our own

Titus 2:11 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. 12 It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, 13 while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, 14 who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.

sherman

Next time I will finish this series off with verse 4.

Does God hate?

This was recently brought into question at church as to whether this is an attribute of God. It was said that this is merely an “Anthropomorphism,” that is applying human characteristics to God in order to make Him understandable. One example of this would be speaking of God holding the waters of the oceans in His hand. Since God is spirit and not contained by a physical body the term hand is being apply to convey a truth or idea.

The first argument that will normally come to mind is that “God is Love”. This truth is found in 1 John 4:8

He who does not love does not know God, for God is love.

There is one important fact that is usually left-out at this point. God is God and not a man. God soverignly defines what love is. It is not some kind of fuzzy squishy love. But rather it is strong, purposeful, and correcting just to name a few aspects. We must not try to make our definition attributes apply to the Holy God. God is above all things Holy. If we keep this fact in mind we can avoid these types of mistakes. God is Love. God is Wrath. God is Mercy. God is Righteous. Each one of these and many more must be understood in light of His Holiness.

Now with that ground work layed I would like to examine the scripture that was brought into question.

Romans 9:13 As it is written, “Jacob I have loved, but Esau I have hated.”

It would be easy enough just to stop here and deal with this passage, but I think it may be better understood by going back to Malachi 1:1-5. This is the section from which it is lifted.

Malachi 1:2 “ I have loved you,” says the LORD. “ Yet you say, ‘In what way have You loved us?’ Was not Esau Jacob’s brother?” Says the LORD. “ Yet Jacob I have loved; 3 But Esau I have hated, And laid waste his mountains and his heritage For the jackals of the wilderness.”

Notice the people of Isreal do not even understand how God has loved them. He starts off by explaining His utter detestable view of Edom and how He has destroyed them. It is because of Edom’s wretched sinfulness. Yet the people of Jacob are wicked, but God corrects them as a feather would a child. The rest of the book speaks of discipline, restoration and renewel. All of this because God chose to have mercy on Jacob and to not have mercy on Esau. They both deserved the same treatment. Yet God has chosen to exercise the giving of grace to some.

This is the nature of man. Spiritually dead. Destine for Wrath.
Vessels of Wrath - Romans 9:21-23; 2 Timothy 2:19-21
By nature Children of Wrtah - Epesians 2:3
The wrath of God abides on unbelievers - John 3:36

This is man at his best:

Psalm 36:1 An oracle within my heart concerning the transgression of the wicked: There is no fear of God before his eyes. 2 For he flatters himself in his own eyes, When he finds out his iniquity and when he hates. 3 The words of his mouth are wickedness and deceit; He has ceased to be wise and to do good. 4 He devises wickedness on his bed; He sets himself in a way that is not good; He does not abhor evil.

God hates evil. If we love God we will hate sin likewise, starting with our own sin.

Psalm 97:10 You who love the LORD, hate evil! He preserves the souls of His saints; He delivers them out of the hand of the wicked

Proverbs 9:10 “ The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

Proverbs 8:13 The fear of the LORD is to hate evil; Pride and arrogance and the evil way And the perverse mouth I hate.

So, does God Hate?

Let the scriptures speak on the subject.

Psalm 11:5 The LORD tests the righteous, But the wicked and the one who loves violence His soul hates.

Zechariah 8:17 Let none of you think evil in your heart against your neighbor; And do not love a false oath. For all these are things that I hate,’ Says the LORD.”

Hebrews 1:8 But to the Son He says:“ Your throne, O God, is forever and ever; A scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom. 9 You have loved righteousness and hated lawlessness; Therefore God, Your God, has anointed You With the oil of gladness more than Your companions.”

Revelation 2:6 But this you have, that you hate the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.

Yes, God does hate... But not as a man does. Man is corrupt in his nature where as God is perfect in His nature. God's hate has a righteous purpose, not based on emotional self-centeredness as in man so many times.

James 1:19 So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; 20 for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.

Yes, God has hatred, anger, vengeance and wrath as well as love, mercy, and longsuffering just to touch on a few. But as everything God does, He does it righteously. He is Holy, Holy, Holy!

Numbers 23:19 “God is not a man, that He should lie, Nor a son of man, that He should repent. Has He said, and will He not do? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good?

The primary teaching of this section out of Romans 9 is that God choses by His sovereign counsel apart from anything in us that could somehow merit this favor. There is nothing good in any man. We may not completely understand it but nevertheless scripture teaches it and we know it to be true. We can always trust that whatever God does it will be Wise Right and Good.

Matthew 22:14 “For many are called, but few are chosen.”

Sherman

But God being rich in mercy...(Part 2)

Let’s come back to this thought of all men being spiritually dead. Paul goes on here to describe unsaved men as dead men walking in this world according to the desires of the flesh under the control of satan.

This is the same evil spirit that has been and continues to control the thought and actions of men since the fall. Man as his best is dead---hating God and loving himself---none seek after God---none understand!

Romans 3:10 as it is written, "THERE IS NONE RIGHTEOUS, NOT EVEN ONE;
11 THERE IS NONE WHO UNDERSTANDS, THERE IS NONE WHO SEEKS FOR GOD;

We may find many people in this world that are splendid neighbors and citizens, but lost. The standard if Godliness is not other men, but GOD! Man can be very religious but apart from regeneration by the Holy Spirit they are simply trying to cover up their sinful nature with man made religious activity.

When a man is dead all he can do is lie there and continue to decay. The dead do not even want life.

John 3:19 "This is the judgment, that the Light has come into the world, and men loved the darkness rather than the Light, for their deeds were evil.

The reason any of us believe and love Christ is because He gave, me a dead man, spiritual/eternal life. There is no goodness in man. No divine spark. There is nothing but evil and rebellion.

This concept effects even how we preach the Gospel. If we can sway man, reason him into the kingdom, then our message had better be exciting, attention getting, a “big” show. But if we are preaching to dead men we had better put our trust in the Work of the Holy Spirit, plainly preaching the Word of Truth. We had best trust in the Supernatural power of God not in man’s marketing methods!

The answer to sin is not to call it a “dysfunctional disorder”, “disease” or “addiction” , but to call men to repentance! All men are of one sinful race of Adam----ALL in need of a Savior. We are by nature children of wrath more on that thought another

We are by nature children of wrath more on that thought another time……………

1 Corinthians 1:21 For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not come to know God, God was well-pleased through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe. 22 For indeed Jews ask for signs and Greeks search for wisdom; 23 but we preach Christ crucified, to Jews a stumbling block and to Gentiles foolishness, 24 but to those who are the called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.

But God being rich in mercy...(Part 1)

Over the next few postings I am going to examine part of Ephesians chapter 2. This section of scripture lays out a basic understanding of man's spiritual condition.

Ephesians 2:1 And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, 2 in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience.

Paul starts out this section of scripture by explaining who we were apart from the grace of God. It will become clear as we work through this scripture that all men are sinners completely separate from God, even unable to respond to Him.

The description here says apart from God we are spiritually dead. Now dead men are completely incapable of responding to an external command. They are complete incapable of initiating an internal response. There is no life. In fact the only thing a dead man can do is continue to rot more.

Left in our sinful condition, separated from Christ, we like a corpse rot more and more. Sin works its way in our flesh to destroy us more and more. Man will never improve and can less corrupt in his flesh. There is no hope for improvement of his condition only expectation of things getting worse. It is because of our own sin that we are spiritually dead.

Romans 8:6 For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace, 7 because the mind set on the flesh is hostile toward God; for it does not subject itself to the law of God, for it is not even able to do so, 8and those who are in the flesh cannot please God.

In the flesh, our depraved nature separated from God, we are totally unable to please God, respond to Him, or obey Him. This is essential to our understanding of the nature of our salvation. It is wholly of God.

The only difference between unsaved men is the extent of their rottenness. Man apart from Divine intervention will never seek after God. We exercise our freewill apart from any outside compulsion. And that freewill is to feed our lust, to rage against a Holy God, and to want nothing to do with Him as we head straight for HELL.

I will leave you with the same thought I started with. But God being rich in mercy... it is in this that true saving faith is found.

The Narrow Way

The narrow way is narrow by definition. It is define by Jesus Christ. The narrow way is only found in Him

John14:6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but through Me.

There is but one way to God.
There are many wrong ways that seem right to man but lead to hell.
The way is much needed by sinful man.
Many think they have found the way in man made religion but are much mistaken.
Men seek after teacher to broaden the narrow way.
False teachers seek to broaden the narrow to increase followers to feed their own lusts.
Men are religious out of fear of hell or fear of man. Not out of a love for the King.
Men trust in their self righteousness resulting in pride.
The narrow way is at enmity to the lusts of the flesh, the pride of man and the love of worldliness.
Wicked men seek to impede others from following the narrow way.
To Follow God alone must be the concern and purpose of your heart.

In Matthew 4:17 we find where the narrow way begins, at repentance.

Matthew 4:17 From that time Jesus began to preach and say, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."

This is the central theme for the Sermon on the Mount as well as the ministry of Christ.

Because the way is narrow, men want someone to make the way easier. The want a way that does not require profound sacrifice and devotion to someone other than themselves.

False teachers will not preach the whole counsel of God. They will seek to minimize sin. They will dilute the exclusiveness of the way of salvation.

Husbands, fathers, young men, it is imperative that you know your bible. It is essential that you think biblically. You must know why you believe what you believe. Take all of scripture that speaks on a matter. Do not disregard that which does not fit your lovely idea on the matter. Take the whole counsel of God. Let scripture interpet itself. Be ready and willing to conform to what scripture declares. Give liberty where scripture is silent or unclear. Be dogmatic where scripture is plain. Protect your family and the flock from false teachers. Spur one another along the narrow way.

Salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone in Christ alone.

True salvation will always result in a transformed life. A lip confession without a heart change reality shown in the life is a false confession. Not salvation by works, but an internal change that reaults in a heart the desire to obey Christ.

Law, Liberty, License

Where do we as believer's in Christ stand with the Mosaic Law? Is any part of the Law binding on the disciple of Christ? What is the purpose of the Law?

I have been taught over the years probably the most common view of the Law in evangelical theology. This view appoarches these questions by dividing the Law into three separate parts; cerimonial, civil and moral. The teaching goes something like this. The civil code was applicable only to the nation of Israel which no longer exists in the form as known in the Old Testament so it has passed away. The cerimonial code was merely a foreshadowing of things to come which have passed away since Christ completed them. Leaving the moral code of the Mosaic Law still enforce today. After examining this view over the years I find myself at odds with it.

I do not agree with biforcating the Mosaic law into two parts (moral and other = part passed away the other still in force) nor do I hold to the idea of antinomianiam (against law = Lawlessness).

There are aspects of the moral code found in both the ceremonial and civil codes. There is no clean break between these man imposed dissections nor does the Word demand such divisions.

Matthew 5:17-20 17 "Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish but to fulfill. 18 "For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or stroke shall pass from the Law until all is accomplished. 19 "Whoever then annuls one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever keeps and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 "For I say to you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.

Christ fullfilled all of the Law perfectly on our behalf. Does that mean we can do whatever we want to? We will get to that point later. First let's deal with the moral law of God.

The Mosaic Law contains principles and requirements that reflect God's eternal moral character, but it is not identical. The moral law of God is unchanging as is the moral character of God. The moral aspects of God are binding to all men in every era and land. They are based in the Holiness of God. They existed apart and before the Mosiac Law and continue after the Mosaic Law.

A distinction can be made between the Law and the eternal percepts we find in Christ. The greek word "nomos" is used to refer to the Law in scripture (Matthew 5:17). The greek word "entole" is used to refer to the precepts of Christ (1 John 2:7).

1 John 2:7-11 7 Beloved, I am not writing a new commandment to you, but an old commandment which you have had from the beginning; the old commandment is the word which you have heard. 8 On the other hand, I am writing a new commandment to you, which is true in Him and in you, because the darkness is passing away and the true Light is already shining. 9 The one who says he is in the Light and yet hates his brother is in the darkness until now. 10 The one who loves his brother abides in the Light and there is no cause for stumbling in him. 11 But the one who hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going because the darkness has blinded his eyes.

The proof that we know Christ is found in our desire and adherance to the precepts of the eternal character of Christ. It is never because we subscribe to the Law of Moses. The obedience Christ wants from us is not legalistic obedience but gracious obedience - not based on fear but on love. Christ connects our obedience to love.

John 14:15 15 "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.

It is worth noting that the fruit of the Spirit and the works of the Law are two very different things. Fruit is produced naturally - it comes forth because of the nature of the source. Work is produced through external effort - it is not naturally occuring.

So why was the law given? Paul answers this question.

Galatians 3:19 19 Why the Law then? It was added because of transgressions, having been ordained through angels by the agency of a mediator, until the seed would come to whom the promise had been made.

The key words are added and until.

The law was added to the Abrhamic covenant but did not nullify that covenant. To show the exceeding sinfulness of man and the need for a savior. The law reveals we are under a curse in great neediness of God's mercy.

This is the significance of Christ bearing the curse for us. In His ressurrection we see the blessing of the Abrahamic covenant. The Law only brought a curse. The Promise to Abramham brought a blessing. The Law was added but only for a time - until Christ came, died and rose again. Christ is the end of the Law for the believer.

Romans 10:4-13 4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes. 5 For Moses writes that the man who practices the righteousness which is based on law shall live by that righteousness. 6 But the righteousness based on faith speaks as follows: "DO NOT SAY IN YOUR HEART, 'WHO WILL ASCEND INTO HEAVEN?' (that is, to bring Christ down), 7 or 'WHO WILL DESCEND INTO THE ABYSS?' (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead)." 8 But what does it say? "THE WORD IS NEAR YOU, IN YOUR MOUTH AND IN YOUR HEART "-- that is, the word of faith which we are preaching, 9 that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; 10 for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation. 11 For the Scripture says, "WHOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED." 12 For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, abounding in riches for all who call on Him; 13 for "WHOEVER WILL CALL ON THE NAME OF THE LORD WILL BE SAVED."

The Old testament pointed toward the ending of the Mosaic Convenant. This does not mean there is not value in the studying the law.

2 Timothy 3:14-17 4 You, however, continue in the things you have learned and become convinced of, knowing from whom you have learned them, 15 and that from childhood you have known the sacred writings which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; 17 so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.

So what is left? God is left and God's moral precepts have never changed.

One other point that needs to be mentioned. Have you heard some use the term we are not under the law but under grace? The only way I have ever heard the used in when some seek to justify their sin. This is as great of an error as one saying we must keep the Law. Paul addressed this in Romans 6 and in Galations 5. Others will say it is all about love, this statement is true only make sure it is love as God has defined it.

Legalism = The return to the yoke of the Law.

License = The return to the yoke of SIN.

Both of these are grevious errors!

So where are we to stand?

Christian Liberty. It is neither license nor legalism.

Liberty = The freedom from sin. The freedom to obey Christ out of true love. The freedom to produce good fruit, fruit of eternal value.

Galatians 5:16-18 16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. 17 For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law.

Elders: Equals or 1st Among Equals

The idea of elders leading out among those that gather together as the church is not an idea of man but of God. The scriptures teach us that elders are to rule and watch over the local flock. What does God have in mind when it comes to ruling?

Mark9:35 Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, "If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all."

God’s design of ruling is to be a servant. We are to put the good of others before one’s self. This applies not only to the elder but to all believers. We are to serve in a way that we honor and glorify Christ.

Many times we call the elders the “ministers”. This is a great misnomer. Elders are responsible to equip the flock for ministry, help them lead each other into maturity, teach and apply the Word and are accountable to God for their oversight. They are to exercise their care of the flock after the servant-pattern of Christ. The flock is to be the ministers as equipped by those so gifted.
(Acts 20:28; Heb. 13:17; Eph. 4:11-12; 1 Thess. 5:12; 1 Pet. 5:1-3)

The elder is the one who is doing the work of an elder because God has called him to that not man. Whether or not man recognizes it does not change the reality of it.

It is the ordination of God and not the ordination of man that matters. The church is simply to recognize what God has already done. Too many men in the evangelical church have called themselves to the work and pay of an elder - not God.

Leaders that wish to be called pastor should reflect upon Matthew 23:8-10. If this is to be our practice then we should refer to some as brother encourager, brother giver, sister hospitality. Christ set us an example to follow. He was God in the flesh and yet He submitted Himself to an equal authority, the Father. As well He submitted Himself to lesser authority, His parents and the government. We are to submit ourselves to one another in the fear of God. We must not set any person or position higher than that which we give to every fellow believer. We must guard against that which leads to pride.

Shall we have just one elder or a plurality of elders? I believe that the Bible teaches a plurality of elders and there is no precedence to put off implementing what God's word teaches.

Paul had elders (plural) appointed where there were none. No where do we find the case for a one man show. There is great danger in one elder leading. A lack of accountability. A tendency toward pride. A desire to maintain power and control. It could lead to the following a man and not Christ.

Shall we have a head elder, one more equal than the rest? Looking back at Mark 9:35 that view must be eliminated. All elders must be equal but each one should lead out where they are most gifted by God.

The elders must be willing to come together and honestly and openly examine each item before the church by the word of God. They must fast and pray until they come to a consensus. That consensus should then be brought before the church. And the church should follow after Christ.

Christ is the only head of the church - not a man. He is the sole authority and the final authority. We must have godly men serving the one true God to bringing glory and honor to Him through His body the church.

There can be no single self sufficient elder. There can be no elder more equal than the others. It is not about power or prestige, but it is about our Lord and Savior – Jesus Christ.

The elders are to rule and serve, but only according to the wisdom of God, not according to the dictates or desires of man.

Sherman

(These were a few thoughts I had on elders. We are currently dealing with some issues akin to this at the church we attend. They maybe a bit out of order and incomplete, but may perhaps be useful to some.)

The Revolving Door in America

Marriage, Divorce and Remarriage

The Christian churches are rife with programs that address blended families (we do seem to like terms that dress things up), divorce recovery, single again classes (sometimes again and again and again). This gives at least an outward appearance of love and acceptance, when it may really be an enabling excuse factor. Divorce and remarriage is a problem both of American society and the evangelical churches in America.

CNSNews.com Staff Writer January 21, 2002 states “Barna Research Poll, which indicated that 33 percent of born-again Christians end their marriages in divorce, roughly the same as the general population, and that 90 percent of those divorces happen after the conversion to Christianity.”

I am somewhat surprised it is not higher in churches than in general society. Many divorcees that attend church often remarry, as opposed to non-church going people that sometimes just live together. How many of those of those remarriages end in divorces - I don’t know.

It seems that the church has become more a reflection of society instead of the light of society. God’s people have always had the calling to be the headlights and not the tail-lights.

Deuteronomy 28:13"The LORD will make you the head and not the tail, and you only will be above, and you will not be underneath, if you listen to the commandments of the LORD your God, which I charge you today, to observe them carefully, 14 and do not turn aside from any of the words which I command you today, to the right or to the left, to go after other gods to serve them.

The most prevalent view that I have found in churches and church going people (whether in California or in the Bible Belt) today is one called the exception clause (maybe better put “for any cause”) from Matthew 5:32 and Matthew 19:9. This view holds that divorce is allowable when adultery has taken place in the marriage or when the unbelieving spouse leaves according to 1 Corinthians 7:15 (more on this one later).

Matthew 5:32 But I say to you that whoever divorces his wife for any reason except sexual immorality causes her to commit adultery; and whoever marries a woman who is divorced commits adultery.

Matthew19:9 And I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery; and whoever marries her who is divorced commits adultery.

I would like to take a different slant on this passage from Matthew 5 and 19 than some may have taken in the past. Years ago I would have agreed with the popular view, but as I have grown and had cause to study out the issue I have become convinced that this view is in error. I am sure what I am about to share is not an original thought - although I haven’t read anything else with articulating this view. I would like to look at the example we have in Joseph the husband of Mary.

Matthew 1:19 And Joseph her husband, being a righteous man and not wanting to disgrace her, planned to send her away secretly.

The Bible calls him a righteous man. I believe that we can conclude from this that the action he was contemplating was also righteous. Joseph found Mary to be pregnant during their betrothal period. During this time of 9-12 months it would prove or disprove a woman’s purity. I believe this to be the proper understanding of the comments of Christ on the subject. That this being a binding relationship that had not yet been consummated could be dissolved (DIVORCE) and the man be under no penalty or obligation (free to re-marry).

The EXCEPTION CLAUSE I believe is just that. We are always looking for a legal loophole. God has imparted to the believer a heart of reconciliation, not a heart of escapism.

Dating, marriage, divorce and remarriage have been to easily accepted by the main-stream (sounds a little too much like of the world not just in the world) Christian community. This philosophy has been perpetuated, programatized and approved of by churches. It advocates a trying it before you buy it philosophy and if you don’t like it throw it away and get another one.

Let’s now look at the unbeliever married to the believer:

1 Corinthians 7:5 But if the unbeliever departs, let him depart; a brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases. But God has called us to peace.

I have heard some people use this excuse, “Well so and so is acting like an unbeliever so I can divorce them.” No where in here do I find that the believer is allowed to initiate the divorce. It is only the unbeliever that is free to leave. Again there seems to be this underlying desire to put a spiritual stamp of approval on ungodly actions. God’s stance on divorce has not changed.

Malachi 2:16 "For I hate divorce," says the LORD, the God of Israel, "and him who covers his garment with wrong," says the LORD of hosts. "So take heed to your spirit, that you do not deal treacherously."

OK, now what do we do with those that have been divorced and remarried but get saved after-the-fact or a believer that repents from the sin of divorce.

Some would say they must separate - rather a divorce to mend the sin of divorce (this is a very simplified view of this doctrine). This doesn’t seem consistent to me with other scriptures that deal with sin. How about, “Let him who was a covenant breaker break them no more.” Do we fix one sin by committing another?

Ephesians 4: 28 He who steals must steal no longer; but rather he must labor, performing with his own hands what is good, so that he will have something to share with one who has need.

The real question might come down to after the person repents what action should they take. Are they living in a continual state of adultery while they remain in the remarried state? It would seem that this sin is not unlike other sins and not somehow worse. All sin separates us from God! I have known people that are saved yet remarried but still see the fruit of God at work in their life and a brokenness over their past. If it is a perpetual state of adultery this could not be. Rather I would say the act of remarriage is the sin of adultery. I know that there are many who would and could debate this opinion, but please read on.

If you have one who as a “believer” and has a track record of divorce and remarriage as well as justifying their actions, this is a major problem and warning sign to us. For the one that is still looking to justify their actions - there is no repentance - no desire to conform to the word of God. This is inconsistent with a true believer’s heart.

The church must teach the truth about the importance and sacredness of marriage. But we must not close off fellowship with those that come from broken marriages that have repented and turned. We must be careful not to define what their turning will result in - what it must look like. We don’t find in scripture Christ telling the Samaritan woman the course of action she must take if she is to prove she is really saved. Let God move their hearts to conform and obey His Word. Let us give counsel as we best understand the scriptures but let God do any separating or bringing together. Let us not set some sins as more unforgiveable than others. We are all at best wretched worms in desperate need of God’s mercy and grace.

These are just a few of my thoughts on the subject. It is not meant to be an exhaustive treatment of the issue. I would challenge each one to examine what scripture has to say on the subject. Approach it as best you can without preconceived notions. Can you arrive at your views from scripture alone, not following predetermined arguments or logic? Let the word interpret itself and diligently apply it to your own heart first. Share your life with others be involved fellowshipping and spurring one another on to good works.

Conspiracy Theories – Living in a Spirit of Fear

Many are the people today that worry and fret over tomorrow. This is to be expected by the non-regenerated soul, but should not be a part of the Christians character. Too many people who claim the name of Christ are becoming enthralled in the realm of conspiracy theories. They live in fear of what tomorrow will bring and tend to be consumed with irrational concerns. Fear is immobilizing. It effectively makes one ineffective.

Excessive worry, whether over what the government is doing, tracking and up to, only serve to lead us into the sin of worry and fear.

Nothing that takes place in the world will take God by surprise. The Lord is sovereign.

Psalm 115:3 But our God is in the heavens; He does whatever He pleases.

There are many interesting conspiracy theories out there from the erosion of civil rights to the dilution of the Bible by various versions and texts. These have only served to divide the church against itself and to church’s attention from our main mission of being a witness and making disciples. This is not of God.

2 Corinthians 5:20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. 21 He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

This draws our attention from the things God has told us to be busy doing – even more so as His return draws nearer. God has revealed in His word that the world is not getting better but worse. He has told us about these things so we would be even more concerned with things of eternal value and not worried about the way of the world.

He has not given the believer a spirit of fear.

Luke 12:5 "But I will warn you whom to fear: fear the One who, after He has killed, has authority to cast into hell; yes, I tell you, fear Him!

Romans 8:15For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, "Abba! Father!"

We need to be consumed by our love for God, by our concern for pleasing Him. There can be many excesses in life. Whether it is worrying about every little minuet item or whether it is an excess of something that is good such as bible reading. These things can bind, impair, consume and destroy one.

Here is a test for you. Measure it by this scripture.

James 3:13 Who among you is wise and understanding? Let him show by his good behavior his deeds in the gentleness of wisdom. 14 But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your heart, do not be arrogant and so lie against the truth. 15 This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly, natural, demonic. 16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every evil thing. 17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy. 18 And the seed whose fruit is righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.


If the item falls into the description of verses 13-16 it is not of God. But if it passes the test of verses 17-18 you can rest in it as being of God.


Ecclesiastes 7:16 Do not be excessively righteous and do not be overly wise. Why should you ruin yourself?

This scripture warns us not to be overly focused on one thing above another setting our own righteous standards. God’s righteousness will result in more of the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. Our own efforts of righteousness will be no better than that of the Pharisees that brings bondage and condemnation. Our only righteousness is to be found in Christ

There is one area where we can rest assured that we cannot go into excess over. This is found in the fruit of the Spirit. This must be cultivated by walking in the Spirit and not giving place to our flesh and its own ideas.

Galatians 5: 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

Do not fret about this world. It is all going to burn. Rather be concerned about pleasing the Father and walk by the power of His Spirit as you submit your way in preference to His way.

The Matter of the Covering


1 Corinthians 11:1 Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ. 2 Now I praise you because you remember me in everything and hold firmly to the traditions, just as I delivered them to you. 3 But I want you to understand that Christ is the head of every man, and the man is the head of a woman, and God is the head of Christ. 4 Every man who has something on his head while praying or prophesying disgraces his head. 5 But every woman who has her head uncovered while praying or prophesying disgraces her head, for she is one and the same as the woman whose head is shaved. 6 For if a woman does not cover her head, let her also have her hair cut off; but if it is disgraceful for a woman to have her hair cut off or her head shaved, let her cover her head. 7 For a man ought not to have his head covered, since he is the image and glory of God; but the woman is the glory of man. 8 For man does not originate from woman, but woman from man; 9 for indeed man was not created for the woman's sake, but woman for the man's sake. 10 Therefore the woman ought to have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels. 11 However, in the Lord, neither is woman independent of man, nor is man independent of woman. 12 For as the woman originates from the man, so also the man has his birth through the woman; and all things originate from God. 13 Judge for yourselves: is it proper for a woman to pray to God with her head uncovered? 14 Does not even nature itself teach you that if a man has long hair, it is a dishonor to him, 15 but if a woman has long hair, it is a glory to her? For her hair is given to her for a covering. 16 But if one is inclined to be contentious, we have no other practice, nor have the churches of God. 17 But in giving this instruction, I do not praise you, because you come together not for the better but for the worse. 18 For, in the first place, when you come together as a church, I hear that divisions exist among you; and in part I believe it.

For many years I had questioned this simple section of scripture. Pastors and teachers, many of which I love and respect, were quick to explain it away as a cultural item, not for today. So we went on in our lives not following this simple command, but never completely forgetting about it. Even though in reality it has only passed away from most churches over the last 40-50 years.

Let me start out with this simple premise; nothing in the text would make me think this was simply a cultural practice. Paul even appeals to what nature teaches (this does not mean that the long hair replaces the covering). We should be careful not to add what scripture does not declare. The practice of culturalizing scripture has its own precarious pitfalls. Where do you stop? (any where you like). For some they will stop with this particular scripture. But to other anything that doesn’t fit their liking is not off limits (i.e. homosexuality).

I don’t claim to completely understand this scripture, but that should not stop anyone from obeying what they do understand. Many people that do embrace the simple covering also omit certain things in this same section of scripture. It may be due to what they have been previously taught or a lack of considering the issues.

Verse five clearly deals with the subjects of praying and prophesying. The context of this scripture in its most simple understanding seems to be done in the context of the church body. I believe it is linked to the section following dealing with problems in the Lord’s Supper. I do not see a break in Paul’s train of thought here.

The question I would like to bring up at this point is what is the context of the woman’s praying and prophesying? I have already established it as being in the gathered church body. But many will protest that the woman is to be silent in the assembly and is not allowed a position of authority. Let me address these one at a time.

The context of the woman being silent from 1 Corinthians 14:34-35 is linked to the questioning of the prophets. It appears to be a stepping out of line by questioning whether that was really the word of God being spoken. The woman in this context is clearly operating outside of the authority of her husband. I believe this is important to the proper understanding of the woman’s role in the body.

1 Timothy 2:11 A woman must quietly receive instruction with entire submissiveness. 12 But I do not allow a woman to teach or exercise authority over a man, but to remain quiet.

The next issue is quite clear. The woman is not to be teaching/preaching or in a position of authority in the church body. But this does not preclude sharing of testimonies or asking questions to clarify what a teacher may mean. Let me make this clear -this does not mean to cloak a teaching or mini-sermon in the form of a question or testimony.

Experience in general shows that women in general will dominate conversations, sharing and questions and men will tend toward silence. But I believe this to be true mainly because men refuse and have not been taught to take their rightful places as the spiritual leaders, but have instead abdecated this to their wives in many circumstances. With that said lets examine another possibility.

When each member in the body of Christ is being obedient and functioning in their proper positions – how do women praying and prophesying fit into church? I do not have a definitive answer, but that does not mean we should ignore it or excuse it away anymore than the covering. I believe that a woman properly taking her place under the headship of her husband could both pray and prophesy within the body without violating 1 Timothy 2:11-12. She would only do so under the authority of her husband not usurping or ignoring it. I believe that we should strive to teach men and women to take their proper position and trust the leading of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers that are seeking to know and honor Christ.

I think we lose some very important parts of the body of Christ when we artificially suppress or ignore what scripture has spoken on. Whether it is either out of fear or ignorance it is still wrong. This will never work if we operate in the flesh, whether it is women improperly exercising freedom in these things or whether it is men artificially stifling what God would have us do.

My intent here is to encourage all of us to look beyond our own biases. Whether it is ignoring the command of the covering or push aside how should a woman pray or prophesy within the body.

A few final thoughts:

The covering type, size and color are never addressed. Let us not make up things where the word is silent.

The wearing of the covering appears to be related to the gathering of believers. If some wear it all the time, let them not look down on those who do not.

A woman can wear a covering but not be in the God given position in relationship to her husband or male authority. As well a woman can be completely in her proper role and yet be uncovered. It is not a prerequisite to salvation.

In 1 Corinthians 11:16 Paul tells us not to be contentious over the issue. I have heard the verse taken many different ways, but it appears to me that Paul is simply saying let us truly love one another and not fight over the issue of the covering.

This command is only mentioned once in the word. That is not to diminish it, but rather let us concentrate more on loving one another for Christ it was of supreme importance for the believer.

John 13:34 "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. 35 "By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."

I believe the veiling is a beautiful thing. It seems so right when a godly woman wears one. But let us not raise it or any other pet doctrines above all other things. Especially loving the brethren and helping each other on to the full maturity and stature of Christ.

Discouragement of the Flesh

vs.

Encouragement of the Spirit

Recently we received a letter from a friend of admonishing us in various areas. Some of the admonishment was needed – others seemed unfounded. Some given by the Spirit, but yet others seemed to be in the humanness of the flesh - really their definition (method) was unfounded in scripture. I have to wonder if I have done the same in the past to others unaware of my own lack of love in doing so. The Lord had recently shown one of these items that was brought up. specifically the lack of consistency in disciplining some of our children (some times we don't quite see what we are doing - even when we know what to do). These things should be brought out in a loving, humble manner.

One was in particular very hurtful to both of us. It seemed to leave a crushing hopeless blow. It was said of us that we could never pass a home-study for adoption. We just had too much junk and didn’t keep the place clean enough. Now we don’t have a dirt - dust free home because we do live here. This is a home not a museum. To help understand the magnitude of this hurt it may help to know our hearts. It has been our heart to adopt a special needs child, but only in God’s timing and is His way. Was what they said true? I didn’t believe so – but yet I pondered over the matter. It just hurt. We still love these friends, but I think a few things must be gone over in love and covered in the word.

But God – (that is may favorite saying of the Lord) He had different plans. Not but a day later we received a card with a very generous amount of money from some dear friends that know our heart and desire to adoption. They wanted to bless us and help in paying for our home-study. In a time of what seemed to be deep sadness the Lord turned into an overcoming blessing and encouragement. God had gone before us and made an answer clear. Even before the admonishment was in the mail - the other card had been sent on its way from California. Don't worry about what others may do or say, but seek the Lord and discern His way.

Oh how good and blessed the Lord has been to us and always is.

Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why have you become disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God. Psalm 42:11

To Know the Joys and Trials of Life

We have had several events of life come our way during the past two weeks. God has used these event to effect change not only in our lives, but in the lives of many people. God does not work in only one dimension, but in many dimensions through seemingly unrelated events. I t is quite probable that many of these events and how they have worked in the lives of us and so many others will remain a mystery to us this side of eternity.

The first event I will bring up is the baptism of my oldest son, Samuel. He came to us wanting to be baptized (he had made a profession of faith as a child many years earlier). Over the past few months I had noticed several changes in his character. God had done something new in his life, so he requested for a public baptism (as well as asking that I preform the baptism). It was with great joy we set about planning this event at a local lake by the public park. It was here in the presence of many fellow believers from our small congregation along with an on looking world that Samuel and another young man were baptized by their earthly fathers while announcing to all their belief and obedience to the Heavenly Father. This time was followed by a sweet fellowship. We broke bread together, ate, shared our faith with one another, and sang praises to our God. It just seemed to be the way ought to be for the body of believers.

John14:6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.

The next event seemed to flow naturally into our lives. We were contacted by some dear friends in California about a downs baby that was in need of an adoptive home. For many years now we have had on our hearts to do something in the area of adoption. This was seemingly laid right in our hands. I knew that walking through this door could open us up for disappointment and hurt, but there was really no question - it was our heart to obey. We were and are now just as confident that God is completely in control. He has a purpose for everything He brings into our lives. This particular child was not to be ours. The birth mother selected another family to receive the child. I will freely admit that I do not understand the way things worked out. I have even questioned myself...did I truly understand God's leading correctly. In the end I know that God lead us this way - my obedience is required no matter the cost. The question is are we willing to follow God no matter the hurt, disappointment, confusion, persecution. Willingly obey Him. For this I know whatever comes into my life is for my good and God's glory.

Psalm 39:4 "LORD, make me to know my end And what is the extent of my days; Let me know how transient I am. 5 "Behold, You have made my days as handbreadths, And my lifetime as nothing in Your sight; Surely every man at his best is a mere breath. Selah. 6 "Surely every man walks about as a phantom; Surely they make an uproar for nothing; He amasses riches and does not know who will gather them.

Well God has a way of putting my disappointment and questions back into perspective. I was feeling down and confused. What was wrong in my life? What was the purpose? Did I clearly understand the Lord. All of these questions quickly went by the wayside as I found out that one out of our small body of believers, a young brother of a dear friend, had died in a single vehicle accident. A mother had lost a son. Several brothers had lost one of their own. Still others had lost a dear friend. But knowing that this young man was a believer brings a sense of joy and peace that mingles with our sorrow. We have no way of knowing the purpose of God in this death. We do not know the impact and change that may be wrought in the lives of others because of it. But again we can trust in the Lord in all things. What the world may see as a senseless waste God will turn into something that will last through out all eternity.

Just in case that wasn't enough, another dear family was touched by a death. They lost an unborn child after knowing and preparing for the child for 17 weeks. They already have several children, so some may think that this is not very significant. Oh how wrong that assumption would be. Every child is a special blessing from the Lord. No matter how many there are - there is room for another. Again we know that God has a purpose that is for their good in all of this even if we can't see it now.

What does all of this really mean?

Psalm 37:4 Delight yourself in the LORD; And He will give you the desires of your heart. 5 Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, and He will do it. 6 He will bring forth your righteousness as the light And your judgment as the noonday. 7 Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, Because of the man who carries out wicked schemes. 8 Cease from anger and forsake wrath; Do not fret; it leads only to evildoing. 9 For evildoers will be cut off, But those who wait for the LORD, they will inherit the land.

First know that nothing that has happened has taken God by surprise. The only reason any of us have breath in our bodies right this moment is that it has so pleased the Father to make it so. Scripture is so clear about how very short our life span is ion earth. What are you doing with the life God has entrusted to you? You are accountable to Him for what you have lived for. Our purpose was to bring glory to God. This is what we were designed to do. God calls each of us to obey Him and Him alone. Obedience is synonymous with faith and belief. You cannot have one without the other. God gives us the grace and power to obey what He has commanded us to do. Would you take time to consider your life? In fact it is really not yours at all. It is merely borrowed. You one day will have to give an account to the One who owns that life. This life offers a fleeting reward and pleasure. If you seek and follow after the world - you will have obtained all of your reward which will bring forth death for all eternity. Instead choose life. Humble yourself and follow God. Find life in Christ. Be conformed into His image by His power.

May the Lord open up all of our eyes to the brevity of life, our accountability to a sovereign God. Choose life and not death.

1 Corinthians 1:25 Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men. 26 For consider your calling, brethren, that there were not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble; 27 but God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong, 28 and the base things of the world and the despised God has chosen, the things that are not, so that He may nullify the things that are, 29 so that no man may boast before God.

Can You Make
“Unclean” Pigs “Clean”
?

My wife and I were discussing the true nature of man and how clearly we can see some of the biblical examples in our animals. Afterwards she sat down and typed out the following blog. I think it is well worth reading.

What a silly question. And I would have never thought about this until…………….we got 2 piglets awhile ago. And I just got to thinking about this passage: Matthew 15:1-20. If you are not familiar with this passage, please read it or these thoughts may not make sense to you.
Our piglets are so cute. (You can see them on the trisonchickery blog)We named them salami and pepperoni. Now we did not get them for pets, though they are cute. So I got to thinking……………..if we were in charge of their diet (what goes in the mouth), then is it possible to actually have “clean” pigs!? If we only gave them fruits and vegetables and fish to eat, then they would be the healthiest pigs around! And we gave t hem lots of shade so they do not have to waller in mud. So far they have stayed pretty clean ----- on the outside that is.
Is it possible to change an “unclean” animal to “clean” by what man does? Well, as I have observed, their diet & hygiene did not change their hearts. They still are selfish little pigs. They bite each others ears. Push one another out away from the food trough. They squeal and chase each other in frustration. They steal anything they can get from each other. One will simply jump in and “hog” up the entire water trough so the other can not get a drink. They are constantly bickering and only looking out for themselves.
I thought what an interesting lesson. It truly is not what goes into the mouth that makes them unclean, but the heart. As for the heart of the pig was made that way by God. So no matter how “man” dresses it up, cleans the outside, feeds it the most organic diet, it will NEVER be a “clean” animal.
So it is with us too. We can do “churchy” activities. We can attend Bible studies, sing in the choir. We can say many a prayers. But that does not make one “clean”
"'These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.'" Matthew 15:8-9
No matter how we disguise it or dress it up---it is not what goes into the mouth that makes us “unclean”.

Matthew 15:10-11 Jesus called the crowd to him and said, "Listen and understand. What goes into a man's mouth does not make him 'unclean,' but what comes out of his mouth, that is what makes him 'unclean.'"

The question is…….what comes out of your mouth? When you are not at church or with your “churchy” friends? When you are offended. When someone has done you wrong? Do you tear them apart to make you feel better? Do you have evil thoughts against those who you don’t care for? Do you have a craving to gratify the flesh in what you read and watch on TV or movies. Lowering your standards saying well everyone else at church watches it…..it must be OK. Though it has many sexual innuendoes and immodesty through out it, you say it isn’t so bad so that it can feed your flesh?

"Don't you see that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and then out of the body? But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man 'unclean.' For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. Matthew 15:17-19
This my friend is what makes you “unclean”. It is your actions. For actions come from thoughts and thoughts come from the heart:

As water reflects a face, so a man's heart reflects the man. Proverbs 27:19

The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks. Luke 6:45

So what is in your heart? Is it repentance that leads to salvation? Are you seeking the wisdom of God found in the fear of a Holy God. Is it the Truth of God’s Word on a daily, moment by moment basis. Feasting on His Word and allowing the Holy Spirit to teach you these concepts. Humbling yourself and to remember you are but dust. Do you desire to find out what pleases God and obey it?

What is in your heart?Only God can make the “unclean” “clean”

The Path of Least Resistance


One basic principle of electricity is that it will seek the path of least resistance to complete a circuit. People are very much the same way. Most people go through life looking for the easiest way to travel. Whether we a speaking of a physical path or a spiritual path people tend to seek the path that appears to be the most pleasing. As it is with many things, man simply does not see clearly. His vision is obscured by his own wicked un-regenerated heart.

There is a way which seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death. Proverbs 14:12

I have pondered over this thought as we have spent some time studying Matthew 7:13-14. It speaks of the board path and the narrow path. One leads to life and the other leads to death. Man’s way always leads to death. The path he chooses is the path of least resistance, at least as far as this world is concerned. I would like to take a look and see what God’s Word speaks about the truly least resistive path.

The first thing I that needs to be made clear is the condition of man’s mind. Have you ever heard someone say “that’s why God gave me a brain” in the context of refuting what scripture has to say?

Romans 8:5 For those who are according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who are according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. 6 For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace, 7 because the mind set on the flesh is hostile toward God; for it does not subject itself to the law of God, for it is not even able to do so, 8 and those who are in the flesh cannot please God.

God’s Word is clear about the condition of man’s mind. Man’s mind is hostile to the things of God. In our flesh it is impossible, not just difficult, to live a life pleasing to the Father.

So is the path this world on truly the path of least resistance. The majority of men believe that to be true. But again we must consult God for the true answer.

1 Peter 3:8 To sum up, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit; 9 not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing. 10 For, "THE ONE WHO DESIRES LIFE, TO LOVE AND SEE GOOD DAYS, MUST KEEP HIS TONGUE FROM EVIL AND HIS LIPS FROM SPEAKING DECEIT. 11 "HE MUST TURN AWAY FROM EVIL AND DO GOOD; HE MUST SEEK PEACE AND PURSUE IT. 12 "FOR THE EYES OF THE LORD ARE TOWARD THE RIGHTEOUS, AND HIS EARS ATTEND TO THEIR PRAYER, BUT THE FACE OF THE LORD IS AGAINST THOSE WHO DO EVIL."

Think of it. God is very careful to look out for the needs of those that belong to Him. That is too wonderful for me to comprehend. But notice what it says about those that don’t belong to God. God Himself is against them. God is not just indifferent to them, but He has set His very purpose against them for destruction. That is a terrible and terrifying place to be.


Matthew 11:28 "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. 29 "Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. 30 "For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."

Christ gave us the answer. God’s way will always be the path of least resistance. Will you resist man or God? You will either serve this present world and suffer the consequences under God’s eternal judgment, or serve God and God alone enjoying His favor eternally. There is no middle ground. No balance. With God you are either with Him or against Him. And if you are not with Him, He is against you!

Psalm 30:5 For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for a lifetime; Weeping may last for the night, But a shout of joy comes in the morning.

May the Lord open our eyes and ears that we may truly discern the path of least resistance. Remember, the purpose of seeking God is not to change His mind, but rather it is to conform us to His will. His will is always for our good and for His glory.