Christian

When Death is Gain

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

We’re all alive but we’re heading for death. When we take our first breath, we are inching toward our last. We know we’re on a collision course with the grave. It’s a fact of life and death.  Every day we’ve been given to live is a gift to live for Christ. If we live for anything else, are we even truly living?

As believers, we are called to die to ourselves. That death can be very painful as we dislodge our desires from God’s. When we turn our life of self indulgence over to following God, the shackles fall off. When we turn our backs on sin, we gain everlasting life. When we allow our personal desires to be replaced with God’s will, we live in surrendered peace. When we die to ourselves, we live only for God.

And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father. Colossians 3:17

Paul had been thrown into a prison in Rome. Oh. He hadn’t committed any crimes and he hadn’t been formally charged, but he found himself in prison anyway. There had also been a death threat against Paul because of his teachings. And those who disagreed with his teaching that Jesus had risen from the dead were replacing truth with doubt when they told their story in the courtroom. They were calling him a troublemaker, but they didn’t charge him with any crimes. They knew he wasn’t guilty of any crime but they wouldn’t set him free. By keeping him locked up, the Roman leaders thought they were appeasing the Jewish leaders. And Paul wouldn’t take a lesser plea just to get out of prison.

Paul knew he was unlawfully placed in prison. He knew he was being wronged, and he suffered for someone else’s wrongdoing. But his faith didn’t waver. He preached the gospel to governors who kept him locked up for years. He proclaimed his innocence when others tried to hijack his case. He even shared his testimony in front of a king who claimed he was out of his mind. He demanded to face trial in front of Caesar. That’s how he found himself in Rome. He had appealed to the highest court.

Paul didn’t fear death, because his hope was in Jesus Christ.

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. Philippians 1:21

I recently watched a short video where a man who searches for truth said that most people will do anything to survive. They’ll survive at any price. So he asked what was the right price to accept to remain alive. He asked. Is it ten million dollars? Twenty million? One hundred million? Then the next sentence he said stunned the audience. He said that if you are a truthteller, the price must be your life. Otherwise, you are for sale. And if you are for sale, then you’re not looking for the truth.

This man said that if I follow my conscience, I may die. But I can lie, and I will live. Truthtellers are strong. Liars are weak. Courage is contagious and intimidating at the same time. To those who are willing to take up the badge of courage, there are as many others who are afraid of those who speak truth. So have no fear. If your life is your price, then take pride in that fact but let it humble you at the same time.

And he’s right. If we can be paid off for keeping silent about the truth, then we’re not really looking for the truth. We’re looking for safety. We’re looking out for number one. Ourselves. But if the price is our life, then we’re willing to forfeit all we have to do the right thing. Telling the truth is costly. Oh. Not always. But in today’s world, the truth is spun so fast that what spills out looks nothing like truth. And it isn’t truth. It’s lies manufactured to make you safe and to put others out of the reach of safety. When if the truth were told, it would be the other way around. Your life could be at risk and others would be saved.

We know that death is not defeat to the Christian. The result of death is a win for those whose sins have been wiped clean. Death ushers forgiven souls into the presence of Jesus Christ for eternity.

Consider Daniel’s three friends. When commanded to bow before an image of the king, they refused. They said no. They would bow only to the God of the universe. So when they were given a second chance to bow, they still refused. Their punishment? They were thrown into a fiery furnace where the flames leaping out killed the ones tossing them in. But God honored their faithfulness, and they survived. Before being thrown into the fire, they said they would not recant their faith in God even if they didn’t survive the fire. Their faith was their priority in life and in the possibility of death. Their life was the price they were willing to pay for truth.

Read the story of Daniel’s friends in Daniel 3.

There was a life that was sold. Except the owner of the life didn’t make the financial exchange. It was one of his twelve closest followers. This follower was obviously living on the fringe. And in a moment of utter weakness, he approached the enemy and offered the life of the man he called Lord. And he sold that friendship for thirty pieces of silver. And when the guard came to collect their prize, Judas kissed Jesus on the cheek as a sign he was theirs for the taking.

Oh. The man who received the kiss knew the betrayal was coming. He knew his life was on the line. During the three years of his ministry, he spoke the truth plainly but eloquently to anyone who would listen. And he offered to them free of charge the gift of salvation and eternal life. It was his physical life that was on the line, though, as the sacrifice for the gift he offered. And as he hung on the cross, he paid the ultimate price. The truth of his message wasn’t silenced by his death. It spread like wildfire around the world, and it’s still spreading today.

The loss of the physical life of Jesus was our gain. Jesus’ death on the cross paved the way for our sins to be forgiven and our worth redeemed. Jesus paid it all. All to him I owe.

You can find the story of Judas Iscariot’s betrayal of Jesus in Luke 22:47-53.

Be Careful About What Offends You

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

The Bible is the Word of God. It’s God’s message of love, hope, salvation and justice to everyone. God speaks truth in his word. God’s plan is perfect, so when Adam and Eve hit a bump in the road and disobeyed him, he had a solution for their sin. When they ate the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden, God provided a plan of forgiveness. And it wasn’t just a plan to save Adam and Eve; it was a plan for the salvation for all mankind. But ever since then, mankind has been on a collision course with eternity. And each of us needs to fully surrender to God’s free gift of forgiveness and salvation for our sin.

We can read in God’s word about his plan of salvation. We can hear it preached in church. We can see how salvation has changed people’s lives. We have the choice to accept or refuse this gift God is offering to each of us. God doesn’t make us choose to live according to his will. He gives us a choice. We make the decision.

The thing is. God’s word is the same for everyone who reads or hears it. Some people are convicted by hearing about their sinfulness and repent. They choose to become a follower of Christ. Others are highly offended and turn against God. They live in opposition to his commands. But his commands don’t change. God is always constant, and he doesn’t show favoritism.

On a recent podcast, the speaker shared that the same fire that melts wax hardens clay. The same wind that sways the oak tree will uproot the weak. And it’s the same with God’s word, which doesn’t change. The difference is in the hearer.

This podcaster encouraged his listeners not to harden their hearts, but to turn from their sinful ways and follow God. The only one we must fear is God. And that fear isn’t the same as being frightened in the dark. It’s the fact that we respect God’s authority and obey him. The fear of God causes us to bow to his commandments and leading. Our fear of God means we don’t act beyond what he allows. We must have a reverence for God and stand in awe of his power and wrath.

For the Lord your God is the God of gods and Lord of lords. He is the great God, the mighty and awesome God, who shows no partiality and cannot be bribed. You must fear the Lord your God and worship him and cling to him. Your oaths must be in his name alone. He alone is your God, the only one who is worthy of your praise. Deuteronomy 10:17, 20-21

In his death on the cross, Jesus represents submission to God, not submission to the authority of man. He represents absolute truth, so when we read the word of God we see our own sinfulness. And we have the choice to be convicted or offended. Sure. The truth hurts. But it also heals if we accept the forgiveness of our Lord and Savior.

Perhaps it has to do with the fact that people no longer fear God. We live for ourselves alone and assume we are our own authority. But the fear of God needs to be seriously considered and practiced. Living in the fear of God doesn’t mean we’re quaking in our boots at the mention of his name. But it does mean that we respect and acknowledge our limits, and we don’t cross the boundaries of Scripture. We must realize that God is God and we are not him. His authority is supreme over anything and everything else.

We see the fear of God lived out in the Bible. When the Hebrew midwives disobeyed Pharaoh’s orders to kill all the newborn baby boys, they refused. They had more fear of God than they did of the king. They knew that if they murdered all those babies, they would stand in judgment before God. They knew they couldn’t cross that line. They stood firmly in their faith in God, and God gave them families of their own in honor of their obedience.

You can read the story of the Hebrew midwives in Exodus 1.

In another Bible story, Daniel’s three friends refused to bow in worship to the king. When the king gave them a second chance, they again refused. They said that if God wanted to save them, he would. If he didn’t want to save their lives, then he wouldn’t. And as a result of their refusal to worship the king, they were thrown in to a fiery furnace. And God chose to honor their obedience and saved their lives.

You can read the story of Daniel’s friends in Daniel 3.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6

How Bright is Your Light?

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Boy. Did I ever get a shock when I walked into his office. He was playing Christian music. And in the two years I’ve worked with this man, I never would have thought he would be associated with anything Christian. As I stood there talking to him, I wanted to join in singing “I’m a Survivor” with Zach Williams. But I didn’t. I kept a straight face and stayed in the conversation as my mind was running in circles trying to figure out this man I was talking to. Is he a Christian?

I wonder. If the roles were reversed and he walked into my office as I listened to Christian music, would he be as shocked as I was hearing it in his office? Would he question how I could be a Christian after he has seen the way I work and heard the words I say? Does he see an attitude of resentment or inconsistency in me?

Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God. Ephesians 5:1-2

I don’t mean to judge the man. But by what I see and know of him, I wouldn’t assume he’s a Christian. And I know. Just because someone listens to Christian music doesn’t mean they’re a Christian. But also, it doesn’t mean they’re not a Christian if they don’t carry their Bible to work. And, besides, Christians aren’t perfect people.

That gives me pause, though. What do others think of me? Is the love of Christ evident in my life? Do I work as if I’m working for the Lord? Does my work ethic speak of reliability and integrity? Do I always try to do my best, even when no one is looking? And it’s not just at work that I should consider my Christian witness.  Am I a godly neighbor to the family living next door? Oh. They see me leave for church each Sunday. But anyone can go to church. Does my life offer the sweet aroma of Christ to a lost and hurting world? Do my actions speak louder than my words?

So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Ephesians 5:15

How bright is my light in the world? If I don’t ever tell others about my faith, can they see it lived out?

Oh. I’ve never heard vulgarity spew from this man’s mouth, but I have heard him speak ill of others. It makes me question myself more than I question him. What have others heard me say about others? Do I look for the good in someone even when all that’s visible is not good? Do I voice those concerns for any ear to hear? Or do I place a guard around my negative thoughts? Just because I think something doesn’t mean I have to speak it. Just because something is true, doesn’t mean I have to share it with others.

And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:30-32

I noticed a mistake in my work the other day. And I noticed it almost too late. I had decided I would let it go and hope for the best. But I knew that it would eventually be discovered. I didn’t want to correct the mistake, because it would require me to undo some work and then re-do it. I was on a self-imposed deadline, and I didn’t want to be bothered. Would anyone even know if I left it? Yes. They would, but it probably would have taken weeks to be discovered. And maybe by then I would have forgotten about it. 

But then. I felt that thumping of my heart. I knew God was nudging me to do the right thing. So I did. I had to admit my mistake and ask for help. I had to undo the error and then correct it. But I did it. And now I have a clear conscience. As a Christian, I need to work with integrity and character, even when only God is watching.

And now I find myself wondering why I even considered letting the error go. Why would I do that? Don’t I want to do my best work possible? Would I have been tempted to lie later down the line when the mistake was uncovered? It was an honest mistake, after all. But the attempt to cover it up would have been dishonest. And I just couldn’t do that.

Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Philippians 2:3-5

The ultimate goal of Jesus for His disciples was that His life be reproduced in them, and through them into the lives of others.

Robert Coleman

If no one can see the life of Jesus in our lives, what does our witness look like? What is seen in Christians if it isn’t the life of Jesus? Do we live out the ten commandments? Do we live by the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5-7? Do we deny ourselves and take up our cross daily? Is our light shining on a hill for the world to see, or do we keep it covered for safekeeping? If we’re not letting our light shine, then what are we doing? If others can’t see our light, is it even shining?

When Christianity Isn’t Christianity

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On the front sleeve of Yoram Hazony’s book “Conservatism”, we’re told that he shows in the book “that by identifying conservativism with ‘classical’ liberalism, conservatives embraced the very principles that led to their defeat”. He said “the survival of Western democracy requires a revival of the centuries-old legal, religious, and cultural traditions that made Britain and America models of national freedom for the entire world.” 

The same principle can used for describing Christianity today. If we say we’re Christians, then we must embrace the very principles that are in the Bible. If we want to see the survival of historical Christianity, then we need a revival of our hearts. When Christianity embraces the same principles as the non-Christian world, Christianity will face defeat. Perhaps not total defeat, for there will always be a remnant of faithful followers of Christ. But defeat, nonetheless, as it relates to being light in a dark world. Individual souls will face defeat when faced with God’s judgment.

When we identify Christianity as synonymous with today’s culture, something is wrong. It just doesn’t work. Christians should be identified by how they are not like the culture. Oh. Perhaps not in every way or in everything. But when it comes to the cultural lies that we all face, we know what we’re talking about without actually saying it. When Christians buy into the fact that they can live their lives the same as their unbelieving friends and still call themselves Christians, who are they really fooling?

Basic truth I wish every Christian realized: Silence in exchange for cultural respect is a deal with the devil.

Natasha Crain

The Greek empire was split into four kingdoms after the death of Alexander the Great. One of the four major players was a man named Antiochus Epiphanes, who was one tough cookie. He was out for blood. In particular, he was out for the blood of the Jews. He had conquered all the countries that surrounded Israel, and he had his sight set on Israel. His goal was to make himself the god they worshipped and bowed to. The problem was that they feared God more than they feared this man, so they didn’t follow his lead. And he made them pay for their disobedience. 

But there were others in the Jewish community who were in awe of the Greek culture and lifestyle. It was attractive, less restrictive and made fewer moral demands on them. It was an easier lifestyle. It seemed. They could throw caution to the wind and indulge their whims and desires. It felt as if they were finally free. So they indulged themselves in this newfound freedom. They gave up their faith for a lesser known religion of self-indulgence. They abandoned God and regarded man as their authority.

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2

The same scenario is playing out before our eyes today. People call themselves Christians, yet they’ve abandoned God. They stand for nothing vaguely similar to Christianity. Their knowledge of the Bible is limited, and their church attendance is nonexistent. Yet they say they’re Christians.

Oh. This is a controversial topic. Calling yourself a Christian without fully knowing what being a Christian is all about. It’s an easy label to slap on your sleeve. And then change nothing else in your life. When someone says they’re a Christian but still follow unchristian ways, are they really a Christian? Are they a born again Christian? It’s not my place to say. I’m not the Holy God, the Judge of the ages. But the definition of a Christian is one who has repented of their sins and is committed to following Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. They’ve died to their own desires and live totally surrendered to God.

My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20

Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation to do what your sinful nature urges you to do. For if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. Romans 8:12-14

We have to make a conscious choice not to make evil good. We must live biblically when we call ourselves Christians. Otherwise, what are we? When we become a Christian, we are, in essence, taking up the cross of Christ. We are wearing the blood stripes on our back. We have nail prints on our hands. Our side has been cut open and bodily fluids have been drained. We have died to ourselves. So there must be a change in us. We can no longer bow to the whims of soft Christianity. There is a price we pay to be an authentic Christian.

If you have not chosen the Kingdom of God first, it will in the end make no difference what you have chosen instead.

William Law

In Leviticus 10:10, Moses instructed the priests and the general population how to be set apart for God. He said they must know what is holy and what is common. They must be able to distinguish right from wrong. The same goes for Christians today. We must be set apart in our actions and responses to a culture that ignores God.

Throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy. Ephesians 4:22-24

You are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light. 1 Peter 2:9

Does He Really Get Us?

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It looks like we have yet another conflict in the Christian world this week. If you watched the big football game last Sunday, you probably saw the commercials that have been causing controversy in the Christian community. Some Christians love the idea that “He Gets Us”, and others are as appalled by it as they are by “The Chosen”. There are always two sides to the story. Two viewpoints. Two arguments. And people who claim to love and follow the same Jesus are all up in arms because their neighbor, co-worker or family member doesn’t agree with them. 

Apparently, the aim of the ad campaign that was launched around the same time last year was to help rescue Jesus’ reputation. It seems that those who follow him have dirtied his name so much that those who don’t follow him want to help clean up his image. Because, after all, aren’t they the experts in the life and intentions of Jesus? Doesn’t it seem that the nonbelievers know exactly how believers should live and make sure to tell us when we’re getting it wrong. And apparently, the campaign needs to be continued this year so more damage control of the name of Jesus can take place. Shame on us Christians, some would say. But also. Shame on those who don’t call Jesus Lord of their life for trying to tell those who do how to be a Christian.

Some people claim the ads are done in good taste and have good intent. Others call the ads a mockery of faith. The question at hand is: Does Jesus really get us? In the ads, we see ordinary, every day people washing the feet of a lesbian, a gay man, and a woman at an abortion clinic. Would Jesus wash their feet? The first question we have to ask is why did Jesus wash his disciples feet in the first place? Was it a practice others followed, or was this just a one-time act of servanthood by Jesus?

Jesus washed the feet of his disciples because they were dirty. When walking in sandals on dirt roads, feet get dirty. It’s pretty simple. And it was typically the job of a servant to wash the dirty feet of travelers. But in this case, there was no servant. So Jesus lowered himself to do the dirty task. It was humbling for all, to say the least. Not only did he wash the feet of the eleven who ate with him, but he also washed the feet of the one he knew would betray him later that night. And he did it anyway. And with his example, he was asking his followers to be willing to serve others in any way that would honor and glorify God. Even if it was a dirty job typically performed by the lowest of people.

You can read the full story of Jesus washing the feet of his disciples in John 13:1-20.

For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. Yet God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. Romans 3:23-24

Yes. It’s even documented that Jesus ate with sinners. He forgave the woman caught in adultery. He healed the sick and the lame. He loved the sinners as much as he loved those who made the decision to follow him. The difference between the sinners and the followers is that the followers gave up their sinful past and followed the ways of Jesus. They didn’t expect Jesus to follow and approve their old, sinful ways. They were made new by the forgiveness of their sins, and they no longer had the desire to stay in their sinful habits. Sinners haven’t given up anything to Jesus. They’re still wallowing in their sin.

The ad is right when it says that Jesus didn’t teach hate. That part is true. And he did wash the feet of his disciples the night before he was crucified. Just once. Just once in the Bible did Jesus ever wash anyone’s feet. And that night was the last night he would spend with those twelve chosen men. Jesus’ act of servanthood was a view of what was to come later that night and the next day when he laid down his life for the sins of all mankind. His death allowed our slate of sins to be wiped clean, not by foot washing but by the blood that Jesus shed on the cross. 

It didn’t make Jesus any more human or any more godly when he washed the dirty feet of the twelve. The act was a conscious effort to serve those who would go on to serve others in Jesus’ name. And, of course, we as believers must imitate Christ. He is our example. We can serve sinners in a multitude of ways without ever washing their feet, because honestly, most people don’t go around washing others’ feet. Some people may need shoes on their feet. Others may need food or clothing or a warm place to sleep. We just have to make sure that our methods of serving those who need Christ don’t enable the person to continue in their sin. Our acts of kindness mustn’t condone ungodly behavior. We must act to share the gospel message of salvation, and at times it’s through serving the basic needs of lost and hurting souls.

Supposedly, someone in the know said that he’s aware these commercials are incomplete in their messaging of the gospel of Christ. He says they’re meant to be used as conversation starters. And by all means. Let’s start the conversation.  And, let’s assume the creators of these commercials had the purest of intentions in telling these stories. But someone in the conversation needs to know biblical truth and speak it accurately. A false gospel isn’t worth sharing. It’s just false.

One other thing. Since when did it become about Jesus getting us? He knows us intimately even if we don’t return the favor. We should be getting him. He’s already paid the price for our sins. Now, we must repent of those sins and live forgiven. We should ask Jesus to save us. Not just to get us.

Should I Stay or Should I Go?

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Oh. The preacher so loved by so many has caused such a stir in recent weeks. He gave advice to a grandmother, and it hasn’t gone over well with others. Oh. It was a message he gave a few months ago that has suddenly come to light. And now it’s created chaos in the Christian community. He has been canceled by some and applauded by others. Many have definite opinions about the subject, while others choose to stay silent. 

The issue at hand is whether it is a sin for a Bible believing person to attend a gay wedding. Should they go or should they stay home? For some, it’s a quandary they hoped to never face. Until it’s staring them in the face. And then a difficult decision must be made. And a tough conversation must take place. Regardless of which side they choose to take, words must be said. Love and compassion must be shared.

How does a Christian respond when asked to do something that goes against their biblical beliefs? Is it ever acceptable to participate in or applaud an activity they believe goes directly against God’s will? Is it acceptable to attend an event in order to show “Christian love”? How do you not support one activity but still show love? When is it acceptable to disapprove another person’s choices without fracturing the relationship? Is it even possible? Can both sides be happy and stay connected?

I’ve read multiple articles and listened to podcasts of Christian leaders who’ve begun to address this pastor’s advice. Someone has asked how to stand their ground and show love at the same time. Is it possible? Should the one who chooses to stand for their biblical beliefs have to tiptoe around the one offending the Bible? 

One writer suggested that, as followers of Christ, we should stop to ask ourselves “What do I know for sure?” when faced with such a defining dilemma. What do I know for sure about loving others unconditionally? What do I know for sure about following Christ’s commands? What do I know for sure about being a faithful Christian witness to those in need of a Savior? What do I know for sure about sin? Another writer said that unconditional love is not unconditional acceptance of someone else’s choices and decisions. 

Love does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. 1 Corinthians 13:6

Should we attend a gay wedding if we don’t support that ideology? Isn’t biblical marriage a covenant between a man and a woman? And witnesses must be present to sign the legal documents. By sitting in attendance at such an event, are we not helping to seal the covenant being signed by these two? Isn’t eating the cake and raising a toast to the couple an endorsement of their union? By offering a gift, are we not celebrating them?

If it’s true that marriage is God’s plan for a man and woman to create the next generation, then it isn’t possible for two people of the same sex to procreate. Since a union between two of the same sex isn’t a marriage in God’s eyes, how can it be a marriage in a believer’s eyes?

One well-known pastor says an invitation to a same sex wedding is a theological test for a believer. How would you respond to that test?

I know. I’m asking too many questions about a delicate matter. But when we’re faced with a difficult moral and spiritual decision, all factors must be laid on the table. We can’t just continue to sweep the dirt under the rug, for soon the rug is dirty. So, I’ll continue on with more questions and thoughts.

How many have ever sat in attendance of two people marrying when they believed the couple was making a huge mistake, even if one is male and one is female? Is there a difference in attending that wedding versus attending a ceremony for two men or two women? If the act violates our conscience, is it a sin to attend regardless of who is getting married? If we wait for the red flag of resistance to fade to white, that means we’ve surrendered our beliefs and standards. 

Are we applauding sin with our attendance? Are we succumbing to today’s culture if we attend? Do we have a better witness by attending or staying home? If we choose to attend, does the couple know our convictions? Do they know that we love them unconditionally? If we stay away, what is our message to them?

Peter preached salvation to the Gentiles. He got called out by Jewish leaders for entering a Gentile home. But he went there to preach salvation, not to applaud their sinful behavior. He didn’t walk in the Gentile door to witness a binding contract or to approve of sin. He was there to witness sinners being saved. And he rejoiced in their salvation, not their sin.

You can read the story about Peter in Acts 10-11.

Jesus invited himself to eat dinner at the home of Zacchaeus, the tax collector who heavily taxed people and pocketed some of the money. Because of Jesus’ love and nonjudgmental actions toward this man he noticed sitting in a tree, Zacchaeus repented of his sins and became a follower of Christ. Not only did he repent, but he paid back everyone he had wrongfully overtaxed. And he gave half of his wealth to the poor. Jesus didn’t encourage him to steal more or applaud his illegal gain of wealth.

You can read the story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19:1-10.

Jesus went into the Temple and saw people buying and selling animals for sacrifice. He turned over the tables of those merchants and kicked them out the Temple. They were desecrating the place reserved for worshipping and offering sacrifices to God. They were not welcome to desecrate the God’s holy place. 

Jesus entered the Temple and began to drive out all the people buying and selling animals for sacrifice. He knocked over the tables of the money changers and the chairs of those selling doves. He said to them, “The Scriptures declare, ‘My Temple will be called a house of prayer,’ but you have turned it into a den of thieves!” Matthew 21:12-13

Then there’s the story of the prodigal son. He had asked his father for his inheritance, which was freely given to him. Then he left home and squandered all his wealth on careless living. Once he realized his sad, penniless situation, he went home to his father and repented. The father gladly welcomed him home with outstretched arms, not because he approved his son’s poor choices but because his son was repenting and asking for forgiveness. 

You can read the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32.

We should consider our motives for being in mixed company. And by mixed company, I mean attending events that applaud and approve those who reject biblical teaching. What is our purpose for being with those who are seeking our approval for their deliberate sins? Our words and actions should not show approval for their lifestyle. Do they know our convictions on the matter? If our actions match the actions of nonbelievers. If our approval is given for unbiblical actions. If our actions speak louder than our words, are we really representing Christ?

Our Christian faith must show consistency. We can’t claim one belief one day and then go against it the next. We can’t condone one sin while calling out another. Yes. Jesus did eat with sinners, but not while they were blatantly acting in sin. Zacchaeus stopped sinning once he ate with Jesus. He repented of his sin of stealing and returned the money. In the parables of Jesus, he said to rejoice when sinners repent. He didn’t tell us to celebrate with them when they continued in their sinful ways.

As Christians, we must be kind and compassionate to those choosing to disobey God’s commands. We can love someone without loving or affirming their behavior. We must be courageous enough to draw a line in the sand when faced with a decision that goes against our Christian convictions. Scripture tells us not to condone sin, for we too will stand in judgment some day.

Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. And do everything with love. 1 Corinthians 16:13-14

Wise Men Still Seek Him

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They were philosophers. Or astronomers. Or were they astrologers? Perhaps they were magicians. All we really know is that a group of men saw an unusual star one night and started an investigation into its meaning. The brilliance of it was unbelievable, and they had to know more. This star has been called an extraordinary celestial event. And the men have been called Magi.

The wise men studied the stars. When they saw a new star, they searched the Scriptures to find the meaning of it. Why were the Scriptures the place they turned to find the answer, one might ask. They were most likely educated men of their day. But what did their education consist of? How did they gain wisdom? Sure. Some might call these men pagan astrologers. But would men who didn’t believe in a deity travel many, many miles to worship a Messiah who had been promised many, many years earlier? It’s doubtful. And God condemned astrology many times in Scripture. So, would he seek out pagans to find his chosen Son? What we know is that God works in mysterious ways his wonders to perform.

These men commonly known as “wise” set out on a journey to follow the star. They believed it would lead them to the One promised in Scripture many years earlier. Funny thing is. No one else seemed to have noticed the star. No other group of wise men was traveling to an unknown destination to worship the promised Savior of the world. Nowhere else in history is it recorded that groups of travelers were following the star to find a new king. They were on their own.

This group of astronomers went out of their way to find the star. They traveled a far distance without hesitation. There were huge sacrifices. No one knows if they left families behind to trek across the globe. No one knows if they were truly equipped for the journey. No one knows how far they traveled or how long the trek took. And, apparently, they didn’t ask anyone’s permission. They just set out on the trip of a lifetime. Only hope. And a promise.

The star was one of a kind. It actually led these travelers to the sight they were seeking. Oh. They knew who and what they were looking for. But they stopped and asked for directions. The problem is. They asked the wrong person. Little did this small band of travelers know that the One they were seeking was not of the royal bloodline. His bloodline was eternal. And he would prove to be unwelcome and unwanted by those in authority.

For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. They will reject the truth and chase after myths. 2 Timothy 4:3-4

Those who believed in the promised Messiah assumed that his throne would be a human, physical one. So, of course, these men sought out the highest position possible, King Herod, to ask where to find the new king. It didn’t go over so well. Suddenly, Herod felt threatened, because he had never heard that someone greater than he was in the area. And it was a baby they were looking for. According to King Herod, the only natural thing to do was kill all boys age two and under. That should solve the problem.

But these wise men lived up to their name. God warned them not to tell Herod where they found the child. And after their visit with the promised babe, they left town taking another route. They duped the king. Such wise men! Before they left town, though, they offered precious gifts for the young boy. Gold. Frankincense. Myrrh. Only the best and most useful gifts were offered to the King of kings.

Foolish men think they don’t need God.   Wise men know they have a void, and they surrender to the only One who can fill their deepest longings. In him, they find deep fulfillment. Since he set eternity in our hearts, we’re only complete in him. It should only take common sense to realize that simple truth, but apparently over time, hearts and minds can become hardened to the truth.

If we look around us today, it’s hard to find wise men. Or women. We’ve been choosing unwisely for so long, we don’t understand true wisdom. We can easily fall prey to deceptive spirits and teachings that come from demons. We follow hypocrites and liars, and we turn away from the true faith. We follow influential people who lead us astray. We consider nothing sacred. 

Wise people want to live a godly life knowing they may suffer persecution as did their Savior. Wise people are humble and listen to advice. They also use their words with restraint and practice patience. They’re even tempered and hold their tongues. And wise men still seek the Savior of the world.

Get wisdom; develop good judgment. Don’t forget my words or turn away from them. Don’t turn your back on wisdom, for she will protect you. Love her, and she will guard you. Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do! And whatever else you do, develop good judgment. If you prize wisdom, she will make you great. Embrace her, and she will honor you. She will place a lovely wreath on your head; she will present you with a beautiful crown. Proverbs 4:5-9

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. James 1:5 

Dressed for the Occasion

~ mercyfortheday ~ 1 Comment

They were the ruling party of the day. They knew they had control of the people, and they liked it that way. Power is everything to some people, and some people abuse that power. And in this very moment, they were abusing the power that had been vested to them by the authorities. And they didn’t care. Who would challenge them? Who would call them out for their unlawful behavior? Who would dare?

A man was on trial for a belief the ruling party didn’t agree with. So they brought in their own attorney to tell a version of the story that was far from the truth. They even provided witnesses who didn’t witness the so-called crime. They were determined to put this man away for what life he had left in him. And rightly so, because he was a threat to their way of ruling. He spoke words that went directly against their ideologies, and he was in the way. A menace to society, some would say.

Funny thing is. This man didn’t even have an attorney. He spoke in his own defense. But no worries. His speech was eloquent and accurate. He did not embellish his story. He just told the plain truth. His delivery was on point. There was no denying that. He had been called a troublemaker and a ringleader. He was accused of desecrating the holy place where everyone worshipped. Only he hadn’t.

This man’s name was Paul. What this ruling party failed to remember, or perhaps didn’t know, was that Paul had once sought and approved of the killing and imprisonment of people who called themselves Christians. And now. Here he was. The roles had been reversed, and he found himself on the receiving end of imprisonment and possible death for being a Christian. Oh. Paul was aware of the dangers, but he felt God’s call on his life to share the message of salvation.

It was obvious to Paul and the men who traveled with him that the leaders in Jerusalem had rejected the gospel message. And by doing so, they rejected anyone associated with it. Not only were there multiple incidents of the message being rejected locally, but violence was ramping up against Paul and other believers. So when Paul spoke publicly about Jesus Christ and the need for salvation, a spotlight was pointed straight on him. But it didn’t silence him.

You can read this story about Paul in Acts 24-26.

Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:14-17

Oh. Paul knew who he was fighting against. He knew the enemy, because he had once been a soldier in the enemy’s camp, all the while thinking he was fighting for a righteous cause. But he had been fooled. And when his eyes were opened, he realized the error of his ways. He had not been on the winning team, even though he had fully believed he was. But once the scales fell from his eyes, he surrendered to the God who had called his name on that road to Damascus. And ever since that day, he was fighting a winning battle even when he appeared to be losing. He was, at long last, on God’s side and would fight mightily for him until his last exhale of breath. Paul knew his final victory would be to spend eternity with his Savior, so fight he must.

For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Ephesians 6:12

In Paul’s letter to the church at Ephesus, he gave them basic instructions on how to stand unwavering in their faith. He taught them how to get dressed in the full armor of God every day, because that’s how he stood ready and prepared for the spiritual fight of his life. As he stood in front of the courts that day, he wore the full armor of God and was able to stand his ground speaking the truth boldly and confidently.

This body armor was not visible to the naked eye, but its effects were on full display. Those in the courtroom heard the full truth of Paul’s story, and God’s righteousness protected his heart from being wounded by sin. Paul walked into that arena in peace knowing that he was anchored and standing firm in his faith. He carried the shield of faith, so the enemy’s fiery arrows couldn’t reach him. By wearing the helmet of salvation, Paul’s every thought was protected by God. Satan’s stronghold was no threat over him. Lastly, Paul used the Word of God as a sword against Satan’s temptations. Paul was covered head to toe in God’s armor.

As believers, we too are called to be fully dressed in God’s armor every day. When we stand before our accusers for thought crimes or words of truth, we must be prepared to stand in defense of the truth. We must use every piece of God’s armor to defend our faith. Others may not see God’s armor, but as we wear it each day they will see God’s work in us as we reject Satan’s advances on our faith.

This spiritual warfare is a battle every believer faces, so we must be dressed for the occasion. As soldiers in the army of God, we must be armed at all times. No warrior enters the battle without their weapons. We can be encouraged knowing that God has provided his protection for us with this suit of armor. Those who know the strength and power of the suit will recognize its work as we publicly live out our faith.

Handmade Gods

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It was a group of tradesmen who incited the riot. They made and sold silver shrines of the Greek goddess Artemis and felt their industry was being threatened. The apostle Paul had been preaching in their city for some time, and people were moving their allegiance from Artemis to worshipping God. Paul was teaching that the way to eternal life was through a life devoted to serving Jesus Christ.

As people in Ephesus were converting to this new God, they were rejecting Artemis. The tradesmen were seeing a slowdown in business. If the people didn’t worship the goddess Artemis, then they wouldn’t continue buying these silver figurines. The men would be out of business. Their livelihood would be destroyed.

These makers of silver gods knew that if enough people were convinced that these handmade statues weren’t really gods, they would be forced to close their doors. And they knew that Paul had not only persuaded many in their city to serve the One and Only God, but he had also preached the same message throughout the entire region. They weren’t necessarily upset about the message Paul was preaching. They were concerned about their economy, and they wrapped their concern in religious and patriotic messaging. He must be stopped. At all costs.

I can understand why the men were all upset. The temple to this goddess, also known as Diana, was considered to be one of the seven wonders of the world. It must have been a sight to behold. This temple was famous throughout the world. So, if someone was suddenly causing these men to lose business, of course, they would have to challenge the newcomers. A confrontation was in order. Their business was important, and no outsider could come in and ruin it for them. Absolutely not. So they took matters into their own hands.

As the men became angry at the injustice they saw happening against them and their life’s work, they began to stir up trouble. They started a riot, and crowds rushed to the amphitheater. Soon, the entire city was full of confusion. They thought they were heroes for the sake of their beliefs, but it was all a matter of saving their pride and making money.

Some people went along with the crowd just so they could be part of the crowd. They had no idea what the fuss was all about or who was even in charge of all the chaos. They just followed the crowd and did and said what they were told. They had no clue what they were fighting for or against.

About that time, serious trouble developed in Ephesus concerning the Way. It began with Demetrius, a silversmith who had a large business manufacturing silver shrines of the Greek goddess Artemis. He kept many craftsmen busy. He called them together, along with others employed in similar trades, and addressed them as follows: “Gentlemen, you know that our wealth comes from this business. But as you have seen and heard, this man Paul has persuaded many people that handmade gods aren’t really gods at all. And he’s done this not only here in Ephesus but throughout the entire province! Of course, I’m not just talking about the loss of public respect for our business. I’m also concerned that the temple of the great goddess Artemis will lose its influence and that Artemis—this magnificent goddess worshiped throughout the province of Asia and all around the world—will be robbed of her great prestige!” At this their anger boiled, and they began shouting, “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!” Soon the whole city was filled with confusion. Everyone rushed to the amphitheater, dragging along Gaius and Aristarchus, who were Paul’s traveling companions from Macedonia. Paul wanted to go in, too, but the believers wouldn’t let him. Some of the officials of the province, friends of Paul, also sent a message to him, begging him not to risk his life by entering the amphitheater. Inside, the people were all shouting, some one thing and some another. Everything was in confusion. In fact, most of them didn’t even know why they were there. Acts of the Apostles 19:23-32

Don’t be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Matthew 10:28

Imagine being so good at your work that your actions could threaten to put an end to an evil industry. Imagine your words and convictions being so convincing that you could cause others to turn from serving idols to serving the living God. Imagine if that would happen today. Because we are in the same predicament today as Paul was centuries ago. The thing is. Paul didn’t set out to close down this lovely temple. His entire focus was to preach the gospel of salvation to the lost souls of Ephesus. And in doing so, the newly saved souls saw the error of their ways. And they turned from their worship of this idol that was no god at all to worshiping the One True God. They had been worshiping a manmade image that had no power at all. It couldn’t even hear their prayers.

Today we find ourselves locked in a battle not of our choosing. We see industries flooding the market with products and services that go directly against God and his creation. The creators of these products push their wares on people who either don’t know or don’t care about preserving biblical values. And those who publicly disagree are made out to be the worst of the worst. Anyone who opposes these retailers and industries may find themselves out of a job. Or worse. They may find that they’ve been blackballed and are not allowed to do business. Some have even had their bank accounts closed.

I’ve been on the fence as to whether Christians should boycott certain retailers and industries that sell products that oppose biblical teachings. It’s a decision everyone who calls themselves a follower of Christ must make. To be honest, I’ve failed in my boycott attempts. I’ve heard some Christians say they don’t even try to boycott any retailers. I’ve also read of those who are working to build a parallel economy that supports only companies that hold to biblical standards.

Just imagine with me, though. If a majority of Christ followers stopped supporting retailers and industries that were blatantly shoving anti-Christian products in our faces, an impact would be seen and felt. We’ve already seen it earlier this year when a couple of companies were expecting the applause of many when they supported specific lifestyles and life choices. The backlash has been huge and the voice of the opposition was heard loud and clear. Will it last? Only time will tell. But for a short window in time, the message on the side of the opposition was powerful.

When the public square speaks a language that Christ would oppose, shouldn’t Christians today oppose it, as well? Especially when there are other options? Truth is being challenged in every segment of society, today, so we must be on high alert at all times. We must never let our guard down to the schemes of the enemy. It’s time to consider where we will spend our hard-earned dollars.

But, at the same time, believers cannot up and remove themselves from society. Believers will remain in jobs in secular businesses. Christians will remain in public schools and liberal universities. Employees will be expected to attend trainings and workshops that are counter to their beliefs. Christians can’t just hide in a hole and ask the rest of the world to accept them. There are times and places when Christians must remove themselves from situations. Due to cultural expectations in some careers, they may have to choose an alternate career to keep their faith intact. But now is also the time to dig in our heels and spend time in prayer for those who oppose Jesus Christ. If all believers were removed from society, who would be the light in the world? Jesus hasn’t called his people home yet, so we are here to be a light in the darkness.

We should not ask, “What is wrong with the world?” for that diagnosis has already been given. Rather, we should ask, “What has happened to the salt and light?”

John Stott

What’s Left On the Table

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I listened to a podcast recently where the host shared that he’s begun a thorough reading of the Bible. He can quote verses and tell the Bible stories better than many Christians. It’s almost an embarrassment to people who confess to Christianity, because they don’t know the Bible as well as this man. But then. He actually reads the Bible. He just doesn’t call himself a Christian. He hasn’t repented of his sins and committed to following Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. And those who call themselves Christians and have repented of their sins and committed to following Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior don’t actually read the Bible. Seems to be a reversal of roles, in my humble opinion.

What Christians who don’t read the Bible don’t realize is that they’re missing out on getting to know God on a very personal level. By reading the Bible, we can learn the holiness and goodness of God. We can confirm that he loves us unconditionally by the way he loved his chosen people, the nation of Israel. We can learn the history of Israel, the successes and failures of the nation’s kings. We can read of the many times God’s chosen people turned their backs on him and blatantly disobeyed him. And in turn, we’ll learn that God still loved them while withholding blessings from them. We will read that God warned them many times over that he would punish them if they didn’t faithfully follow him. And we will read how that promise came about, as well as their redemption when they returned to God.

When we read the Bible, we will read the prophesies that God spoke through his appointed prophets. We will learn that God hates sin and will punish those who have unconfessed sin in their lives. We learn in the Bible that a judgment day is coming for everyone, and we will confess that Jesus is Lord. Every last one of us will confess Jesus is Lord. Think of that for a moment. There will come a day when everyone will say those words, whether out of love and adoration or fear and trembling.

We will also read that God promised to send a Messiah who would come to the world as a baby and grow to be a man to die for our sins. We would learn that that man was more than a man. He was God’s Son who came in human form to experience every temptation that we face but rejected the temptation. He was sinless. We will read that he was beaten to within an inch of his life and then hung on a wooden cross to die. To die for our sins. And we would read that he rose from the dead on the third day and now lives in heaven with his Father. He’s preparing a home for those of us who call him Lord and Savior.

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20

Knowing all this and knowing there is still so much more in the Bible to learn, I’m convinced that those who call themselves Christian leave things on the table when they surrender their lives to Christ. Some say it’s all or nothing. And it is. We must give all of ourselves over to God so he can prune us and shape us into godly followers. We must allow our humanity, our flaws, our insecurities, our imperfections, our wants and desires, our goals and ambitions, our successes and failures to spill out on the table, so we can spend eternity with him. But we are also called to be his messengers of hope to a lost and dying world.

What am I leaving on the table in my decision to follow Christ?  It’s an all or nothing kind of deal.  I can’t confess my sins and commit to Christ and then keep my lifestyle the same.  Something has to change.  If I’m fully committed to a relationship with Christ, then I must do what it takes to get to know him intimately and personally.  

Your life as a Christian should make non-believers question their disbelief in God.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer

As a follower of Christ, I must make decisions that may be contradictory to decisions I would make in my pre-Christian life.  My friends may have to be different.  I may not be able to go to the same places I once frequented.  I may not be able to say the words I once said.  I may have to change my social and philosophical beliefs so they align with biblical truths. I may have to draw the line on old behaviors and desires.

Some may think that blending in with the crowd makes us more relatable and less offensive to those who don’t call themselves followers of Christ. But when we only give a part of ourselves to God, have we given him anything? The Bible tells us it’s all or nothing. We can’t be lukewarm and be a child of Christ.

But since you are like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth! Revelation 3:16

When we don’t leave everything on the table for God, we aren’t fully surrendered to him. Oh. There may be times when we realize we’ve withheld something and we need to lay it down. But when we intentionally withhold a prized possession, whether tangible or imagined, we’re withholding a piece of our hearts that could be used by God. God’s love and goodness can’t just have visitation rights, he must have a permanent home with us. We must surrender all.

While God doesn’t place the same convictions on each of us, he does place the requirement of obedience on every follower.

The secret isn’t to know about God, it’s to know God intimately.