. . . just as you saw that a stone was cut from a mountain by no human hand, and that it broke to pieces the iron, the bronze, the clay, the silver and the gold (Daniel 2:45).
And he will become a sanctuary and a stone of offense, and a rock of stumbling . . . (Isaiah 8:14).
It has been said that there are about 300 prophecies in the Old Testament about Jesus Christ; the cited texts are but two of them. One of them is actually Daniel's interpretation of Nebuchadnezzer's dream, a timeline revealing the general time of the coming of Christ and his Kingdom.
Jesus Christ is the rock on which life is to be built (Matthew 7:24-27). For those who build their lives on Jesus, he is a sanctuary, a refuge, shelter, sustainer and an encourager, helping each one deal with the inevitable storms of life.
It was also prophesied that Jesus would become a stumbling stone to some and a rock of offense to other, and he has fulfilled that prophecy as well. His own people rejected him when they understood that he was not the kind of king they wanted. He is still rejected today for the same reason. He is rejected today because he is too narrow. He did not describe himself as a good teacher but as the way, the truth and the life. He is not away, but the way. He is not a truth, but the truth. He is not one source of life, but the source of life.
Many are offended by Christ and thus try to remove any reference to him in modern life. The Advent, Christmas, season, secularists and religionists simply call the winter holiday season--"Happy holidays," or "Season's greetings." And, they simply refer to Good Friday and Resurrection Day, Easter, as the spring holidays.
The truth is that in the end, every knee shall bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord (Philippians 2:10-11). No one will dismiss him as irrelevant! The question each person must answer now is, "Who is Jesus to me, a sanctuary, a stombling stone or an offense?" I hope you can answer with me that Rock Jesus is redemption and hope, the foundation for life.
Grace&Peace;
Tom
Thursday, April 08, 2010
Saturday, April 03, 2010
JESUS, "DAVY CROCKETT" OF FAITH
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God (Hebrews 12:1-2).
According to the text, Jesus is our pioneer, blazing a trail for us to follow. The Greek word from which "pioneer" is translated is also translated as author, founder, captain, originator, leader,guide, and last but not least, champion. In popular American culture, Davy Crockett, "king of the wild frontier," exemplified all of those qualities of a pioneer. He is but a picture of what Jesus Christ actually did for us! What is clear is that the author of Hebrews intended for his readers to see Jesus as the trailblazer who is the source salvation, guidance and inspiration for their lives because of what he accomplished for us; he is the true pioneer, our champion.
My great grandparents homesteaded the farm on which Helen and I live in 1871. Silas, Rebecca and infant son, Henry, traveled across Iowa in a covered wagon powered by an ox team during the month of February so that they could be on the homestead by March 1. Also it must be noted that February travel made it much easier to traverse the swampy land and rivers because they were frozen. I have often drawn inspiration from them when I think of the hardships they endured as they were "pioneering" on the Northwest-Iowa prairie. God forgive us for taking for granted what has been given to us because of the hard work and sacrifice of our forefathers and mothers.
A pioneer is a trailblazer so that others can follow and benefit from what he has accomplished. Not only is Jesus life's "True North" reference point, he is the way, safely guiding us by blazing a trail for us to follow. Do you trust him? Often, the trail Jesus blazes is counter to conventional wisdom, for example, counting others better than ourselves (see Philippians 2:1-8), but that is the trail he has blazed. Will you travel that road?
Grace&Peace;
Tom
According to the text, Jesus is our pioneer, blazing a trail for us to follow. The Greek word from which "pioneer" is translated is also translated as author, founder, captain, originator, leader,guide, and last but not least, champion. In popular American culture, Davy Crockett, "king of the wild frontier," exemplified all of those qualities of a pioneer. He is but a picture of what Jesus Christ actually did for us! What is clear is that the author of Hebrews intended for his readers to see Jesus as the trailblazer who is the source salvation, guidance and inspiration for their lives because of what he accomplished for us; he is the true pioneer, our champion.
My great grandparents homesteaded the farm on which Helen and I live in 1871. Silas, Rebecca and infant son, Henry, traveled across Iowa in a covered wagon powered by an ox team during the month of February so that they could be on the homestead by March 1. Also it must be noted that February travel made it much easier to traverse the swampy land and rivers because they were frozen. I have often drawn inspiration from them when I think of the hardships they endured as they were "pioneering" on the Northwest-Iowa prairie. God forgive us for taking for granted what has been given to us because of the hard work and sacrifice of our forefathers and mothers.
A pioneer is a trailblazer so that others can follow and benefit from what he has accomplished. Not only is Jesus life's "True North" reference point, he is the way, safely guiding us by blazing a trail for us to follow. Do you trust him? Often, the trail Jesus blazes is counter to conventional wisdom, for example, counting others better than ourselves (see Philippians 2:1-8), but that is the trail he has blazed. Will you travel that road?
Grace&Peace;
Tom
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR
A star shall come forth out of Jacob, and a scepter shall rise out of Israel (Numbers 24:17b).
You will do well to pay attention to this as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts (II Peter 1:19b).
I am the root and the offspring of David, the bright morning star (Revelation 22:16b).
If one can locate the Big Dipper in the night sky, locating the North Star, Polaris, is easy. Line up the two stars on the far end of the dipper in the direction of the open top and continue on that line to Polaris. Polaris is not a brighter star than any of the others, but it is always in line with the Big Dipper. Depending on the time, the Dipper will be in different positions because it appears to rotate around Polaris, but Polaris is always in the same position, True North. Finding the North Star is the first lesson of basic navigation.
The first lesson of life navigation is to find the North Star of life. Locating life's True North can be difficult because there are many who say that True North does not exist; what is true for me is not true for you. Jesus Christ lays the claim to being True North for every one. He aligns with the stars of prophetic truth, historical truth and nature's truth.so that in a universe of many lights, he is not hard to find. The question is, how do you find True North? Is that taking you where you want to go?
When the planet Venus is in the east, it is known as the Morning Star because it is the brightest light in the sky; a sign that the morning light is not too distant. The birth, life, death, burial and resurrection of Jesus is the sign that the morning light of a new day is not too far distant, thus Jesus Christ is a star of hope keeping us going when the night seems the darkest.
Jesus Christ is the superstar of guidance and hope!!!
Grace&Peace;
Tom
You will do well to pay attention to this as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts (II Peter 1:19b).
I am the root and the offspring of David, the bright morning star (Revelation 22:16b).
If one can locate the Big Dipper in the night sky, locating the North Star, Polaris, is easy. Line up the two stars on the far end of the dipper in the direction of the open top and continue on that line to Polaris. Polaris is not a brighter star than any of the others, but it is always in line with the Big Dipper. Depending on the time, the Dipper will be in different positions because it appears to rotate around Polaris, but Polaris is always in the same position, True North. Finding the North Star is the first lesson of basic navigation.
The first lesson of life navigation is to find the North Star of life. Locating life's True North can be difficult because there are many who say that True North does not exist; what is true for me is not true for you. Jesus Christ lays the claim to being True North for every one. He aligns with the stars of prophetic truth, historical truth and nature's truth.so that in a universe of many lights, he is not hard to find. The question is, how do you find True North? Is that taking you where you want to go?
When the planet Venus is in the east, it is known as the Morning Star because it is the brightest light in the sky; a sign that the morning light is not too distant. The birth, life, death, burial and resurrection of Jesus is the sign that the morning light of a new day is not too far distant, thus Jesus Christ is a star of hope keeping us going when the night seems the darkest.
Jesus Christ is the superstar of guidance and hope!!!
Grace&Peace;
Tom
Friday, March 26, 2010
WHEN THE TIME WAS RIGHT
but when the time had fully come, God sent forth his Son, born of a woman . . . (Galatians 4:4).
Many have speculated about why Jesus' entrance into the world was when it was, 6 to 4 BC--calender correction. It has been noted that the Pax Romana, the Roman Peace, provided the stability required for one to travel from the Nile to Britain without hindrance. The Romans built great roads throughout the Empire, providing much easier transportation, and an efficient postal system through which a letter could travel 170 miles in 24 hours. As a result, there was reliable communication with the distant parts of the empire; the apostles and evangelists made good use of them.
Because of the armies of Alexander the Great, Koine Greek was spoken from India throughout the Middle East. During the time of the Romans it was spoken throughout the Empire. From 300 BC to 330 AD Koine Greek was the language of the world, making the task of sharing Christ with the nations much easier.
There is consensus that there was a feeling of expectancy that a "Holy One" would be born. Some have pointed to what Confucious, Zoroaster and Virgil predicted. Others point to Homer, Plato and Socrates' Messianic symbolism in their writing and teaching as the cause of that expectancy. I do believe the expectancy of a Messiah was real, but that it was produced by the Old Testament prophets. As the Hebrew people were dispersed throughout the lands, they took those prophecies with them and influenced the world. Daniel's prophecy was especially influential, having a definite time line for the coming of the Messiah; it was well known.
The time had fully come because it was on the time line that the prophets foretold. The God has not revealed a specific time line for the Lord's second coming, though he has given us some general indicators that history is headed in that direction. Wouldn't it be great if he came to receive us home by Christmas? Are you prepared for his appearing?
Grace&Peace;
Tom
Many have speculated about why Jesus' entrance into the world was when it was, 6 to 4 BC--calender correction. It has been noted that the Pax Romana, the Roman Peace, provided the stability required for one to travel from the Nile to Britain without hindrance. The Romans built great roads throughout the Empire, providing much easier transportation, and an efficient postal system through which a letter could travel 170 miles in 24 hours. As a result, there was reliable communication with the distant parts of the empire; the apostles and evangelists made good use of them.
Because of the armies of Alexander the Great, Koine Greek was spoken from India throughout the Middle East. During the time of the Romans it was spoken throughout the Empire. From 300 BC to 330 AD Koine Greek was the language of the world, making the task of sharing Christ with the nations much easier.
There is consensus that there was a feeling of expectancy that a "Holy One" would be born. Some have pointed to what Confucious, Zoroaster and Virgil predicted. Others point to Homer, Plato and Socrates' Messianic symbolism in their writing and teaching as the cause of that expectancy. I do believe the expectancy of a Messiah was real, but that it was produced by the Old Testament prophets. As the Hebrew people were dispersed throughout the lands, they took those prophecies with them and influenced the world. Daniel's prophecy was especially influential, having a definite time line for the coming of the Messiah; it was well known.
The time had fully come because it was on the time line that the prophets foretold. The God has not revealed a specific time line for the Lord's second coming, though he has given us some general indicators that history is headed in that direction. Wouldn't it be great if he came to receive us home by Christmas? Are you prepared for his appearing?
Grace&Peace;
Tom
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
RIDING HOME AGAINST THE WIND
The wicked are not so, but are like chaff which the wind drives away (Psalms 1:4).
When the weather was really cold this last winter, while I was doing my daily walk, I was walking against a strong northwest wind. It reminded me of my feelings as a boy, riding my bike home against the wind. As a boy, the farm on which my family lived was five miles north of Sutherland. When I was in third grade I started to ride my bike, an old hand-me-down girl's bike with a wobbly wheel, the five miles to school. I loved the feeling of independence, riding the school bus was not my favorite thing to do. Once in a while I would meet a couple of friends and we would ride together, but I think I rode more than any of them.
Riding to school was great because most often the wind was at my back. Riding in town was great because the streets were paved and the wind diminished because of the many buildings and trees. Going home was another story. Often the wind was so strong that it was very disheartening to a 9-year-old boy on a heavy girl's bike with a wobbly wheel. Those were the days when there were no multi-speed transmissions on bicycles so at times I just had to get off the bike and push. Quitting was not an option because even at age 9 I understood that there are consequences to quitting. It was always good to get home. There was always something to eat as well as love and acceptance. Home was just a good place to be.
As I walked against the much-below-zero-wind-chill wind that day, I thought that the faithful life is much like riding a bike on a gravel road home against the wind. Life, with all of its hardships and sorrows, like riding against the wind, it still worth the ride. Arriving home is even better because one is finally home with the best family ever! I also noted that if one only rides with the wind at his back, he is taken farther and farther away from home: But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind (James 1:6). To believe, one has to go against the wind, but it is in believing that we find our way home.
Has your faith in Christ taken you against the wind?
Grace&Peace;
Tom
When the weather was really cold this last winter, while I was doing my daily walk, I was walking against a strong northwest wind. It reminded me of my feelings as a boy, riding my bike home against the wind. As a boy, the farm on which my family lived was five miles north of Sutherland. When I was in third grade I started to ride my bike, an old hand-me-down girl's bike with a wobbly wheel, the five miles to school. I loved the feeling of independence, riding the school bus was not my favorite thing to do. Once in a while I would meet a couple of friends and we would ride together, but I think I rode more than any of them.
Riding to school was great because most often the wind was at my back. Riding in town was great because the streets were paved and the wind diminished because of the many buildings and trees. Going home was another story. Often the wind was so strong that it was very disheartening to a 9-year-old boy on a heavy girl's bike with a wobbly wheel. Those were the days when there were no multi-speed transmissions on bicycles so at times I just had to get off the bike and push. Quitting was not an option because even at age 9 I understood that there are consequences to quitting. It was always good to get home. There was always something to eat as well as love and acceptance. Home was just a good place to be.
As I walked against the much-below-zero-wind-chill wind that day, I thought that the faithful life is much like riding a bike on a gravel road home against the wind. Life, with all of its hardships and sorrows, like riding against the wind, it still worth the ride. Arriving home is even better because one is finally home with the best family ever! I also noted that if one only rides with the wind at his back, he is taken farther and farther away from home: But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind (James 1:6). To believe, one has to go against the wind, but it is in believing that we find our way home.
Has your faith in Christ taken you against the wind?
Grace&Peace;
Tom
Friday, March 19, 2010
THE DEPOPULATION BOMB
The third angel blew his trumpet, and a great star fell from heaven, blazing like a torch, and it fell on a third of the rivers and on the fountains of water. The name of the star is Wormwood. A third of the waters became wormwood, and many men died of the water, because it was made bitter (Revelation 8:10-11).
Fertility rates are down the world over. Every woman of childbearing age has to produce 2.1 children to replace a nation's population. The United States is almost there at 2.05 while China, in spite of its one-child-per-couple policy, stands at 1.7. Russia is losing an astonishing 700,000 people a year. The reason we are seeing a growing world population is that more people are living to old age. One only has to read the obituaries in the local newspaper to see that the great majority of deaths are people 75 into the 100's years of age. With all of the industrial and agricultural poisoning of the planet, why are people living longer?
What is behind depopulation? In my own reading I found that some believe there is something in the water, either by God or by government (the reason for the cited text). Another reason given was higher testosterone levels in both males and females that actually reduce fertility in both sexes. Certainly, another cause is abortion. Vietnam and Romania have the highest rates, but a million and a half American abortions is abominable! Sterility caused by sexually transmitted disease is still another factor.
Think of what falling birth rates mean to the social programs upon which seniors have come to depend; Social Security and Medicare. There will be fewer and fewer workers to support those elderly who are in need of support. These kinds of programs are unsustainable in the long term so the wise will prepare not to depend on the government. Do not look at retirement as a goal, but continue to do something of economic value as long as possible. Rampant inflation and an unsustainable national economic model require this.
Every prophecy of catastrophe because of over population has failed because human beings are resources, not liabilities. Depopulation will be a catastrophe and a curse and qualifies as one of my general sign of the times. It might be that God is closing the wombs, preparing an older generation that has already made its choices to face the judgment.
Fertility rates are down the world over. Every woman of childbearing age has to produce 2.1 children to replace a nation's population. The United States is almost there at 2.05 while China, in spite of its one-child-per-couple policy, stands at 1.7. Russia is losing an astonishing 700,000 people a year. The reason we are seeing a growing world population is that more people are living to old age. One only has to read the obituaries in the local newspaper to see that the great majority of deaths are people 75 into the 100's years of age. With all of the industrial and agricultural poisoning of the planet, why are people living longer?
What is behind depopulation? In my own reading I found that some believe there is something in the water, either by God or by government (the reason for the cited text). Another reason given was higher testosterone levels in both males and females that actually reduce fertility in both sexes. Certainly, another cause is abortion. Vietnam and Romania have the highest rates, but a million and a half American abortions is abominable! Sterility caused by sexually transmitted disease is still another factor.
Think of what falling birth rates mean to the social programs upon which seniors have come to depend; Social Security and Medicare. There will be fewer and fewer workers to support those elderly who are in need of support. These kinds of programs are unsustainable in the long term so the wise will prepare not to depend on the government. Do not look at retirement as a goal, but continue to do something of economic value as long as possible. Rampant inflation and an unsustainable national economic model require this.
Every prophecy of catastrophe because of over population has failed because human beings are resources, not liabilities. Depopulation will be a catastrophe and a curse and qualifies as one of my general sign of the times. It might be that God is closing the wombs, preparing an older generation that has already made its choices to face the judgment.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
ANGELOLOGY
Are they not ministering spirits sent forth to serve, for the sake of those who are to obtain salvation? (Hebrews 1:4).
Prominent figures involved in the birth of Christ Jesus, and his resurrection are the angels. Not only were angels created to be involved in carrying out God's purposes on this earth, they were created by God to minister to the needs of those who are being saved. It will be interesting to have a conversation with our angel when we get to heaven about the near misses, burprise blessings and spiritual strength that were sent our way because of his ministry to us. I know there are many who have personal testimonies of miraculous interventions that defy an other explanation other than the ministry of an angel.
When discussing the ministry of angels, one of the inevitable questions that come up is: "If each little one has an angel, why do they not intervene more often to prevent abortion, abuse and sex abuse that is so common?" At this point the previous "Bullet" text should be noted: See that you do not despise one of these little ones; for I tell you that in heaven their angels always behold the face of my Father who is in heaven (Matthew 18:10). That is a question for which only God has the right answer, but one of the things Jesus teaches in the text that is absolutely sure, God is recording through the testimony of their angels all of the wrongs done to these helpless and powerless ones and there will be an accounting on the Day of judgment!!! Of the angels he says,"Who makes his angels winds, and his servants flames of fire" (Hebrews 1:7). In saying this, God means that Angels administrate God's righteous judgments with wind-driven fire. We know from the Lord's Prayer that in Heaven angels carry out God's will without question or hesitation; there will be no mercy shown to those who have harmed a little one!
One of the good TV programs this year is Undercover Boss. It is about CEO's who go undercover to view how things really work in their companies. I asked the lovely and gracious Helen if she thought our Boss goes undercover to see how our ministry is working. Though she just smiled it is worth considering this verse: Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares (Hebrews 13:2).
Grace&Peace;
Tom
Prominent figures involved in the birth of Christ Jesus, and his resurrection are the angels. Not only were angels created to be involved in carrying out God's purposes on this earth, they were created by God to minister to the needs of those who are being saved. It will be interesting to have a conversation with our angel when we get to heaven about the near misses, burprise blessings and spiritual strength that were sent our way because of his ministry to us. I know there are many who have personal testimonies of miraculous interventions that defy an other explanation other than the ministry of an angel.
When discussing the ministry of angels, one of the inevitable questions that come up is: "If each little one has an angel, why do they not intervene more often to prevent abortion, abuse and sex abuse that is so common?" At this point the previous "Bullet" text should be noted: See that you do not despise one of these little ones; for I tell you that in heaven their angels always behold the face of my Father who is in heaven (Matthew 18:10). That is a question for which only God has the right answer, but one of the things Jesus teaches in the text that is absolutely sure, God is recording through the testimony of their angels all of the wrongs done to these helpless and powerless ones and there will be an accounting on the Day of judgment!!! Of the angels he says,"Who makes his angels winds, and his servants flames of fire" (Hebrews 1:7). In saying this, God means that Angels administrate God's righteous judgments with wind-driven fire. We know from the Lord's Prayer that in Heaven angels carry out God's will without question or hesitation; there will be no mercy shown to those who have harmed a little one!
One of the good TV programs this year is Undercover Boss. It is about CEO's who go undercover to view how things really work in their companies. I asked the lovely and gracious Helen if she thought our Boss goes undercover to see how our ministry is working. Though she just smiled it is worth considering this verse: Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares (Hebrews 13:2).
Grace&Peace;
Tom
Monday, March 15, 2010
RECEIVING A LITTLE ONE
See that you do not despise one of these little ones; for I tell you that in heaven their angels always behold the face of my Father who is in heaven (Matthew 18:10).
Children are an awesome responsibility. I believe one of the things this verse teaches is that the angel of each little one is keeping record of the wrongs done to that child by those who should know better; wrongs for which they must give account in judgment: Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me; but who ever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened round his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea (Matthew 18:6).
Each year close to a million and a half babies are killed when their mother's pregnancies are aborted. I use the term babies because, with the use of modern technology, one can view all the distinguishing characteristics of a human being right down to the nipples on a one-inch fetus. In almost every case, the reason for abortion has to do with the view one has of that little one growing inside. The eyes of faith view baby as a blessing; the eyes of unbelief see that little one as a burden to heavy to bear.
Granted, I am a man writing these thoughts for women facing the challenges of bearing and raising a child in difficult circumstances, so perhaps I do not understand the anxiety in their lives. Nevertheless, if a little one is received as Jesus the blessings will be more enormous than the challenges. Receiving Jesus means that a lot of changes will occur. It is no less so in receiving a child in Jesus' name, but they are good changes. For those who cannot bear the changes, what a wonderful gift of life can be given to a couple who have room in their hearts for a little one, but cannot conceive new life on their own!
Children are an awesome responsibility. I believe one of the things this verse teaches is that the angel of each little one is keeping record of the wrongs done to that child by those who should know better; wrongs for which they must give account in judgment: Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me; but who ever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened round his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea (Matthew 18:6).
Each year close to a million and a half babies are killed when their mother's pregnancies are aborted. I use the term babies because, with the use of modern technology, one can view all the distinguishing characteristics of a human being right down to the nipples on a one-inch fetus. In almost every case, the reason for abortion has to do with the view one has of that little one growing inside. The eyes of faith view baby as a blessing; the eyes of unbelief see that little one as a burden to heavy to bear.
Granted, I am a man writing these thoughts for women facing the challenges of bearing and raising a child in difficult circumstances, so perhaps I do not understand the anxiety in their lives. Nevertheless, if a little one is received as Jesus the blessings will be more enormous than the challenges. Receiving Jesus means that a lot of changes will occur. It is no less so in receiving a child in Jesus' name, but they are good changes. For those who cannot bear the changes, what a wonderful gift of life can be given to a couple who have room in their hearts for a little one, but cannot conceive new life on their own!
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
A PARABLE FOR TEACHERS
As for what was sown on good soil, this is he who hears the word and understands it; he indeed bears fruit, and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty, and in another thirty (Matthew 13:23). One should take the time to read the whole parable in Matthew 13:1-23.
Preaching and teaching can be discouraging business because sometimes it seems as if one's teaching is making little if any impact on the students. There is an old saw that says, "If a kid hasn't learned then the teacher hasn't taught." There is some truth to that, but in truth, very little. The teacher is responsible to do the best teaching he or she can do, but the actual learning depends on the attitude of the student.
Some attitudes are so negative that teaching and discipline is rejected without thought. Others are smart and receive teaching quickly, but lack the discipline to stick with it and, as a result, the teaching dies from lack of use. Still others receive the teaching, but competing interests and lack of focus chokes it out. Finally, however, there are those students who receive the teaching and are emotionally mature enough to incorporate it into their lives according to their ability--the parable teaches that not all good students have the same capacity.
It might seem as if the parable is saying that only 25% of folks are going to bear very much fruit from the seed of the gospel. However, in some fields the whole field is good soil and the fruit of the teacher/preacher is astonishing. In other fields there are large amounts of compacted, shallow and weedy soils so the labor is hard and the harvest is meager. The one who labors in these fields has to plow, water, fertilize and weed if there will be any harvest at all, but the truth is that there will always be a harvest. If one is faithful in sowing the seed of truth, there will always be a harvest.
One of the reasons Jesus taught in parables was to separate the customer from the window shopper and the serious disciple from the fair-weather follower. Which one are you?
Grace&Peace;
Tom
Preaching and teaching can be discouraging business because sometimes it seems as if one's teaching is making little if any impact on the students. There is an old saw that says, "If a kid hasn't learned then the teacher hasn't taught." There is some truth to that, but in truth, very little. The teacher is responsible to do the best teaching he or she can do, but the actual learning depends on the attitude of the student.
Some attitudes are so negative that teaching and discipline is rejected without thought. Others are smart and receive teaching quickly, but lack the discipline to stick with it and, as a result, the teaching dies from lack of use. Still others receive the teaching, but competing interests and lack of focus chokes it out. Finally, however, there are those students who receive the teaching and are emotionally mature enough to incorporate it into their lives according to their ability--the parable teaches that not all good students have the same capacity.
It might seem as if the parable is saying that only 25% of folks are going to bear very much fruit from the seed of the gospel. However, in some fields the whole field is good soil and the fruit of the teacher/preacher is astonishing. In other fields there are large amounts of compacted, shallow and weedy soils so the labor is hard and the harvest is meager. The one who labors in these fields has to plow, water, fertilize and weed if there will be any harvest at all, but the truth is that there will always be a harvest. If one is faithful in sowing the seed of truth, there will always be a harvest.
One of the reasons Jesus taught in parables was to separate the customer from the window shopper and the serious disciple from the fair-weather follower. Which one are you?
Grace&Peace;
Tom
Friday, March 05, 2010
THE KINGDOM OF GOD
"The kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed; nor will they say, 'Lo, here it is' or 'There!' for behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you" (Luke 17:21).
Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, On earth as it is in heaven (Matthew 6:10).
We reign with Christ in his kingdom when Christ reigns in our hearts; the kingdom of God is within us. The kings of earth use their power to rule physical territory. They enact laws at their whim and use their power to force their subjects to obey. God almost always acts in ways completely opposite to the conventional wisdom. Christ does not twist our arms and muscle his way into our lives, rather, he entered the world in the most humble circumstances and died in indignity because of his love for us. If the persuasion of love does not open the door, a heart will never be truly surrendered to the Lord Jesus Christ.
The answer to the Lord's Prayer begins in the heart of each person because that is the territory that God wants to rule. When God rules the heart of a person, his will will be done on earth as it is in heaven in that person's life. The Lord's Prayer is a personal prayer of surrender to the will of God.
The worst imaginable future for anyone is to be cast into hell. Jesus said that, If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and throw it away; it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and through it away; it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body go into hell (Matthew 6:29-30). What he means is that to be in the kingdom one must cast away the nearest and dearest impediments to entering it. As painful as that is, hell is infinitely more painful. While it is almost a certainty that the Lord did not literally mean to pluck out eyes, cut off hands and sexual organs, it would certainly mean the surrender of sexuality for the sake of the kingdom. Sex is added here because, in our culture, sex and materialism are the dominant gods.
The day is coming when everyone will see the King in his power and majesty and bow before him (Philippians 2:9-11). Until that day it is the free decision of each person to allow the King to enter their hearts and sing, Joy to the world! The Lord has come; let earth receive her king . . .
Grace&Peace;
Tom
Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, On earth as it is in heaven (Matthew 6:10).
We reign with Christ in his kingdom when Christ reigns in our hearts; the kingdom of God is within us. The kings of earth use their power to rule physical territory. They enact laws at their whim and use their power to force their subjects to obey. God almost always acts in ways completely opposite to the conventional wisdom. Christ does not twist our arms and muscle his way into our lives, rather, he entered the world in the most humble circumstances and died in indignity because of his love for us. If the persuasion of love does not open the door, a heart will never be truly surrendered to the Lord Jesus Christ.
The answer to the Lord's Prayer begins in the heart of each person because that is the territory that God wants to rule. When God rules the heart of a person, his will will be done on earth as it is in heaven in that person's life. The Lord's Prayer is a personal prayer of surrender to the will of God.
The worst imaginable future for anyone is to be cast into hell. Jesus said that, If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and throw it away; it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and through it away; it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body go into hell (Matthew 6:29-30). What he means is that to be in the kingdom one must cast away the nearest and dearest impediments to entering it. As painful as that is, hell is infinitely more painful. While it is almost a certainty that the Lord did not literally mean to pluck out eyes, cut off hands and sexual organs, it would certainly mean the surrender of sexuality for the sake of the kingdom. Sex is added here because, in our culture, sex and materialism are the dominant gods.
The day is coming when everyone will see the King in his power and majesty and bow before him (Philippians 2:9-11). Until that day it is the free decision of each person to allow the King to enter their hearts and sing, Joy to the world! The Lord has come; let earth receive her king . . .
Grace&Peace;
Tom
Wednesday, March 03, 2010
IS SATAN BOUND?
Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, holding in his hand the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain. And he seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the Devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years, and threw him into the pit, and shut it and sealed it over him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years were ended. After that he must be loosed for a little while (Revelation 20:1-3).
The kingdom of heaven is like leaven which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal, till it was all leavened (Matthew 13:33).
The prophecy of Genesis 3:15 was fulfilled in the ministry of Christ. In the days of Noah, satan had nearly unrestricted freedom so that every imagination of the hearts of man were wicked so that the earth was filled with violence and corruption (Genesis 6:5&11). Perhaps satan has never had complete freedom as the book of Job testifies that God limited what satan could do to Job (1:12 & 2:6). Jesus described his ministry in Luke 4:18-19 as the fulfillment of Isaiah 61:1-2. He could not "set at liberty those who are oppressed" until satan had been bound to some degree: But no one can enter a strong man's house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man; then indeed he may plunder his house (Mark 3:27).
If satan is bound, one might argue that there is certainly a great amount of evil in the world. In response it could also be argued that, yes, while there is a great amount of evil in the world, it is not like the days of Noah. My argument is that the binding of satan is a relative term. Because of his binding, the kingdom of heaven has penetrated the world in many ways, as the kingdom parable suggests. Think of the influence Christ has had on the laws, arts and sciences of the modern world--do some personal research on this. This kind of penatration could have never happened if satan was not restricted in some way. And, it should go without saying, millions and millions have been able to receive the gift of salvation because satan's activities have been restricted.
What do you think satan's loosing will mean?
Grace&Peace,
Tom
The kingdom of heaven is like leaven which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal, till it was all leavened (Matthew 13:33).
The prophecy of Genesis 3:15 was fulfilled in the ministry of Christ. In the days of Noah, satan had nearly unrestricted freedom so that every imagination of the hearts of man were wicked so that the earth was filled with violence and corruption (Genesis 6:5&11). Perhaps satan has never had complete freedom as the book of Job testifies that God limited what satan could do to Job (1:12 & 2:6). Jesus described his ministry in Luke 4:18-19 as the fulfillment of Isaiah 61:1-2. He could not "set at liberty those who are oppressed" until satan had been bound to some degree: But no one can enter a strong man's house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man; then indeed he may plunder his house (Mark 3:27).
If satan is bound, one might argue that there is certainly a great amount of evil in the world. In response it could also be argued that, yes, while there is a great amount of evil in the world, it is not like the days of Noah. My argument is that the binding of satan is a relative term. Because of his binding, the kingdom of heaven has penetrated the world in many ways, as the kingdom parable suggests. Think of the influence Christ has had on the laws, arts and sciences of the modern world--do some personal research on this. This kind of penatration could have never happened if satan was not restricted in some way. And, it should go without saying, millions and millions have been able to receive the gift of salvation because satan's activities have been restricted.
What do you think satan's loosing will mean?
Grace&Peace,
Tom
SHADES OF GRACE
As each has received a gift, employ it for one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace (I Peter 4:10).
Peter says there are variations of God's grace. God's grace reminds me of a well-cut diamond with its many different facets, each sparking in a little different way. All people are blessed with God's grace. As a result of his creation, and his sustenance of that creation, the sunshine and the rain bless every person! The beauty of the earth, the sun, moon and stars are witnesses to the wisdom, power and majesty of God. The one who has created and named a billion trillion stars in the universe*, who knows the number of the hairs on the heads of six billion people is our Father God who graces us with life and breath and everything (Acts 17:25). These graces are unconditional so that they bless each and every person.
Though the price of salvation has been paid for each person, it is only the one who surrenders to Christ who receives salvation. The grace that saves is extended to the one who believes, repents and is baptized (Acts 2:38; Romans 6:1-8). Though salvation is intended for all, it is only given to those who will receive it.
In the context of I Peter 4:10, Peter is speaking of some of the graces that serve. It is my personal belief that these graces are given so that God's purposes will be fulfilled. How will God bel glorified without those who are faithful in prayer, love, hospitality and financial giving? How will God's purposes be fulfilled without leaders, teachers and preachers who are faithful in the word? Each one of these graces is a different shade of grace. God is glorified when one sparkles with the shade of he or she has received!
Grace&Peace,
Tom
*The number of stars some scientist have estimated are in the universe. The Psalms say that God has named each one.
Peter says there are variations of God's grace. God's grace reminds me of a well-cut diamond with its many different facets, each sparking in a little different way. All people are blessed with God's grace. As a result of his creation, and his sustenance of that creation, the sunshine and the rain bless every person! The beauty of the earth, the sun, moon and stars are witnesses to the wisdom, power and majesty of God. The one who has created and named a billion trillion stars in the universe*, who knows the number of the hairs on the heads of six billion people is our Father God who graces us with life and breath and everything (Acts 17:25). These graces are unconditional so that they bless each and every person.
Though the price of salvation has been paid for each person, it is only the one who surrenders to Christ who receives salvation. The grace that saves is extended to the one who believes, repents and is baptized (Acts 2:38; Romans 6:1-8). Though salvation is intended for all, it is only given to those who will receive it.
In the context of I Peter 4:10, Peter is speaking of some of the graces that serve. It is my personal belief that these graces are given so that God's purposes will be fulfilled. How will God bel glorified without those who are faithful in prayer, love, hospitality and financial giving? How will God's purposes be fulfilled without leaders, teachers and preachers who are faithful in the word? Each one of these graces is a different shade of grace. God is glorified when one sparkles with the shade of he or she has received!
Grace&Peace,
Tom
*The number of stars some scientist have estimated are in the universe. The Psalms say that God has named each one.
Monday, March 01, 2010
BEYOND THE PALE
The Lord is not slow about his promise as some count slowness, but is forbearing toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance (II Peter 3:9).
It was a sad sight to me. Here he was, an elder in my congregation, sitting on an up-side-down bucket smoking a cigar. He was thinking about going fishing. This was the third week in a row that he had missed church, so I had to know what was going on with him. My elder knew the Bible well, perhaps better than I. He lived what he believed. He always attended church, so his absence was out of character for him, as was smoking a cigar. What could have happened to keep him from worshipping with the family of God?
The elder was not surprised that I was there. We had had many Bible studies and discussions; some of them being about reformed theology, so he had a ready answer when I asked him, "What's going on?" "I'm beyond the pale of God's grace," he replied. He was feeling as if he was not acceptable to God because he was not one of God's elect, though he had been baptized on his confession of faith in Christ. The truth was, however, he was in the down phase of bi-polar disorder; he was not beyond the pale! His feelings were real, but his feelings were not the truth!
The theological truth is that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace except those who refuse to surrender their lives to the love and rule of Jesus the Christ. The context of II Peter 3:9 is quite clear, the Lord delays his coming so that each person has ample opportunity to come to Christ. God has ordained that his grace extends to all who will receive it. When one feels that he is "beyond the pale," his feelings are lies from the father of lies! Rejection of Jesus Christ is the only thing that puts one beyond the pale of God's saving grace!
God has not made some people for Heaven and other people for hell; it is contrary to his nature. God is not a respector of persons (Acts 10:34-35). Hell was made for the devil and his angels (Matthew 25:41). People go there only because they reject the one who came to save them!
Grace&Peace;
Tom
It was a sad sight to me. Here he was, an elder in my congregation, sitting on an up-side-down bucket smoking a cigar. He was thinking about going fishing. This was the third week in a row that he had missed church, so I had to know what was going on with him. My elder knew the Bible well, perhaps better than I. He lived what he believed. He always attended church, so his absence was out of character for him, as was smoking a cigar. What could have happened to keep him from worshipping with the family of God?
The elder was not surprised that I was there. We had had many Bible studies and discussions; some of them being about reformed theology, so he had a ready answer when I asked him, "What's going on?" "I'm beyond the pale of God's grace," he replied. He was feeling as if he was not acceptable to God because he was not one of God's elect, though he had been baptized on his confession of faith in Christ. The truth was, however, he was in the down phase of bi-polar disorder; he was not beyond the pale! His feelings were real, but his feelings were not the truth!
The theological truth is that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace except those who refuse to surrender their lives to the love and rule of Jesus the Christ. The context of II Peter 3:9 is quite clear, the Lord delays his coming so that each person has ample opportunity to come to Christ. God has ordained that his grace extends to all who will receive it. When one feels that he is "beyond the pale," his feelings are lies from the father of lies! Rejection of Jesus Christ is the only thing that puts one beyond the pale of God's saving grace!
God has not made some people for Heaven and other people for hell; it is contrary to his nature. God is not a respector of persons (Acts 10:34-35). Hell was made for the devil and his angels (Matthew 25:41). People go there only because they reject the one who came to save them!
Grace&Peace;
Tom
Saturday, February 27, 2010
WHAT IS SATAN'S TO GIVE?
And the devil took him up, and showed him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time, and said to him "To you I will give all this authority and their glory; for it has been delivered to me, and I give it to whom I will. If you, then, will worship me, it shall all be yours." And Jesus answered him, " It is written, 'You shall worship the Lord your God, and him only shall you serve'" (Luke 4:5-8).
As I was reading this text I questioned, "What, really, can satan give? Did God allow him the power to give to Jesus the kingdoms of the world?" One of the key points to remember about satan is that he always lies--lying is his native tongue (John 8:44). So, if satan claimed to be able to deliver the kingdoms of the world to Jesus it would have been just as much a lie as the one he told to Eve, saying she would be like God (Genesis 3:5). He always offers to give what he cannot. He cannot give anything but evil.
Jesus referred to satan as the ruler of this world (John 14:30-31). The apostle Paul did the same in 2nd Corinthians 4:4. However, do not assume that satan has more power than he does because of these two references. The spirit of satan is alive in all those who follow the conventional wisdom of the world and those who put the desires of the flesh ahead of the will of God (Ephesians 2:1-3). Because so many follow his ways, it appears as if he is the god of this world--it does seem as if he does have dominion over the earth. Put on the armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18) and remember, "For dominion belongs to the Lord, and he rules over the nations" (Psalms 22:28). Satan does not exactly know the future for he does not have dominion, so his prophecies often fail. Because God has dominion, his prophecies are always true--he is in control of the future.
Jesus does not respond to satan with a reasoned argument because one cannot reason with the unreasonable. Jesus only responds with Biblical truth from Deuteronomy 6:13. The evil one has nothing to give but evil. Never believe his lies that he has something good to give!
Grace&Peace;
Tom
As I was reading this text I questioned, "What, really, can satan give? Did God allow him the power to give to Jesus the kingdoms of the world?" One of the key points to remember about satan is that he always lies--lying is his native tongue (John 8:44). So, if satan claimed to be able to deliver the kingdoms of the world to Jesus it would have been just as much a lie as the one he told to Eve, saying she would be like God (Genesis 3:5). He always offers to give what he cannot. He cannot give anything but evil.
Jesus referred to satan as the ruler of this world (John 14:30-31). The apostle Paul did the same in 2nd Corinthians 4:4. However, do not assume that satan has more power than he does because of these two references. The spirit of satan is alive in all those who follow the conventional wisdom of the world and those who put the desires of the flesh ahead of the will of God (Ephesians 2:1-3). Because so many follow his ways, it appears as if he is the god of this world--it does seem as if he does have dominion over the earth. Put on the armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18) and remember, "For dominion belongs to the Lord, and he rules over the nations" (Psalms 22:28). Satan does not exactly know the future for he does not have dominion, so his prophecies often fail. Because God has dominion, his prophecies are always true--he is in control of the future.
Jesus does not respond to satan with a reasoned argument because one cannot reason with the unreasonable. Jesus only responds with Biblical truth from Deuteronomy 6:13. The evil one has nothing to give but evil. Never believe his lies that he has something good to give!
Grace&Peace;
Tom
Friday, February 26, 2010
HELLO TO LOVE
By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But if any one has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him? Little children, let us not love in word or speech but in deed and in truth (I John 3:16-18).
While watching an old Bing Crosby movie called Rhythm on the River, Richard Carpenter noticed that a song called Goodbye to Love, attributed to an aspiring writer was referenced several times but the song was never played in the movie. Carpenter wondered what a song called Goodbye to Love would sound like and began sketching out a melody and some lyrics. He recruited John Bettis to actually write the lyrics and that is how one of the "shmultsiest" feel-sorry-for-yourself songs ever written was born in 1972.* Actually, it is a beautiful song that fairly accurately depicts how a person who has lost at love feels for about six weeks--as ONLY Karen Carpenter could sing it: I'll say goodbye to love, no one ever cared if I should live or die . . .
If one gives any serious thought to the Christmas season and to the Easter season, he or she has to conclude that, unless the history is inaccurate, which it is not, God loves us so much that he sent his only son, Jesus the Christ, to die for us. Still, the history and theology of the gospel is remote to one living in the present, suffering from loneliness, unless it comes with skin on. Loneliness is the lack of emotional connection to another in one's immediate existence and it is here that the Christian gospel with skin on must enter. One of the needs common to every human being is to be loved. Christians are the hands and feet of Jesus, showing his love each day by taking it with them wherever they go. By the way, giving the love of Christ is as much a human need as receiving it. Human wholeness if found in the receiving and giving of the love of Christ.
So, what if an aspiring songwriter wrote a song called, Hello to Love? How would it go? Certainly it has the potential to become a much-loved Christmas carol; at least if Karen Carpenter could sing it.
Grace&Peace;
Tom
*Wikipedia, Goodbye to Love.
While watching an old Bing Crosby movie called Rhythm on the River, Richard Carpenter noticed that a song called Goodbye to Love, attributed to an aspiring writer was referenced several times but the song was never played in the movie. Carpenter wondered what a song called Goodbye to Love would sound like and began sketching out a melody and some lyrics. He recruited John Bettis to actually write the lyrics and that is how one of the "shmultsiest" feel-sorry-for-yourself songs ever written was born in 1972.* Actually, it is a beautiful song that fairly accurately depicts how a person who has lost at love feels for about six weeks--as ONLY Karen Carpenter could sing it: I'll say goodbye to love, no one ever cared if I should live or die . . .
If one gives any serious thought to the Christmas season and to the Easter season, he or she has to conclude that, unless the history is inaccurate, which it is not, God loves us so much that he sent his only son, Jesus the Christ, to die for us. Still, the history and theology of the gospel is remote to one living in the present, suffering from loneliness, unless it comes with skin on. Loneliness is the lack of emotional connection to another in one's immediate existence and it is here that the Christian gospel with skin on must enter. One of the needs common to every human being is to be loved. Christians are the hands and feet of Jesus, showing his love each day by taking it with them wherever they go. By the way, giving the love of Christ is as much a human need as receiving it. Human wholeness if found in the receiving and giving of the love of Christ.
So, what if an aspiring songwriter wrote a song called, Hello to Love? How would it go? Certainly it has the potential to become a much-loved Christmas carol; at least if Karen Carpenter could sing it.
Grace&Peace;
Tom
*Wikipedia, Goodbye to Love.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
SERVING LIKE CHRIST
Have this mind among yourselves, which you have in Christ Jesus, who though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form he humbled himself and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross (Philippians 2:5-8).
An inconvenient truth is that a servant is not greater than the master. When the Son left Heaven and took on human flesh he experienced humanity--he understands what it is like to be human. One cannot ever say about God that he is unjust because he doesn't really understand what it is like to be human; he does! God does not insulate himself from the pain, sorrow, temptation and death that we experience, for Jesus experienced it all.
In like fashion Christ calls each disciple to have that same mind. I believe this is one of the salient messages of the gospel. If we are to have peace with one another and if we are to help others we have to be willing to give up our own preeminence to enter the world of others. It is only by entering their world that we can come into understanding distance, which is the distance necessary to help.
It is dangerous to enter the world of another. As Jesus brought the character of the Father with him, so we must bring the character of Christ with us! Christ came into a sinful world, but did not sin; he maintained integrity. One of the very real dangers of entering the world of another is becoming infected with the same disease! The best counsel and the best help we can give is found in the character of Christ that we manifest in their world. For people who have been lied to; for people who have been abused and manipulated, bringing the light and integrity of Christ into their world is the best counsel one can give.
Jesus left the glories of Heaven to save us, as his servants, can't we at least give up a little of our personal comfort to reach out to the ones he loves?
Grace&Peace;
Tom
An inconvenient truth is that a servant is not greater than the master. When the Son left Heaven and took on human flesh he experienced humanity--he understands what it is like to be human. One cannot ever say about God that he is unjust because he doesn't really understand what it is like to be human; he does! God does not insulate himself from the pain, sorrow, temptation and death that we experience, for Jesus experienced it all.
In like fashion Christ calls each disciple to have that same mind. I believe this is one of the salient messages of the gospel. If we are to have peace with one another and if we are to help others we have to be willing to give up our own preeminence to enter the world of others. It is only by entering their world that we can come into understanding distance, which is the distance necessary to help.
It is dangerous to enter the world of another. As Jesus brought the character of the Father with him, so we must bring the character of Christ with us! Christ came into a sinful world, but did not sin; he maintained integrity. One of the very real dangers of entering the world of another is becoming infected with the same disease! The best counsel and the best help we can give is found in the character of Christ that we manifest in their world. For people who have been lied to; for people who have been abused and manipulated, bringing the light and integrity of Christ into their world is the best counsel one can give.
Jesus left the glories of Heaven to save us, as his servants, can't we at least give up a little of our personal comfort to reach out to the ones he loves?
Grace&Peace;
Tom
Monday, February 22, 2010
THREE DAYS IN INFAMY
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole amor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we are not contending against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers , against the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spiritual hosts of wickedness in heavenly places (Ephesians 6:10-12).
When people say, "There is peace and safety," then sudden destruction will come upon them as travail comes upon a woman with child, and there will be no escape (I Thessalonians 5:3).
President Franklin Roosevelt said that December 7, 1941 would live in infamy. I think we could also add September 11, 2001 as another infamous date; both dates arouse horror. Both of these great tragedies in American history were followed by conspiracy theories of coverups because it is speculated that both presidents wanted America to go to war. Japan had already displayed military aggression. Radical islamists had already bombed the World Trade Center. The signs of imminent attacks should have been obvious.
There is plenty of evidence that an obviously pregnant woman is going to give birth; the question is, when? It comes suddenly--a pregnant woman does not want to be caught in a situation when help is not available. Why would a nation be less vigilant when the signs are obvious? Why would any individual not be vigilant when the truth is that apocalypse is coming? Death is one's personal apocalyptic moment. The second coming of Christ is the apocalypse for all things.
That lazy Sunday morning on December 7, 1941, no one thought there would be an attack; many people were sleeping in. Suddenly, at 7:55 a.m., the first Japanese planes shattered Hawaiian quiet--apocalypse was happening!
I will never forget September 11,2001, I was on highway 31 between Washta and Correctionville, Iowa, driving to Norfolk, Nebraska. Regular radio programming was interrupted by the announcement that a plane had flown into the World Trade Center--apocalypse was happening! It was shortly before eight a.m. central time on a day that would have many more announcements; how could this be happening in America?
We often make the mistake of assuming that vigilance is someone else's responsibility. We are blessed with so many tools today by which we can assess our present situation, the first and for most being the Bible. With modern language translations, it is not hard to do a systematic study of it. Arm yourself because apocalypse is coming! Will you be prepared for it?
Grace&Peace,
Tom
When people say, "There is peace and safety," then sudden destruction will come upon them as travail comes upon a woman with child, and there will be no escape (I Thessalonians 5:3).
President Franklin Roosevelt said that December 7, 1941 would live in infamy. I think we could also add September 11, 2001 as another infamous date; both dates arouse horror. Both of these great tragedies in American history were followed by conspiracy theories of coverups because it is speculated that both presidents wanted America to go to war. Japan had already displayed military aggression. Radical islamists had already bombed the World Trade Center. The signs of imminent attacks should have been obvious.
There is plenty of evidence that an obviously pregnant woman is going to give birth; the question is, when? It comes suddenly--a pregnant woman does not want to be caught in a situation when help is not available. Why would a nation be less vigilant when the signs are obvious? Why would any individual not be vigilant when the truth is that apocalypse is coming? Death is one's personal apocalyptic moment. The second coming of Christ is the apocalypse for all things.
That lazy Sunday morning on December 7, 1941, no one thought there would be an attack; many people were sleeping in. Suddenly, at 7:55 a.m., the first Japanese planes shattered Hawaiian quiet--apocalypse was happening!
I will never forget September 11,2001, I was on highway 31 between Washta and Correctionville, Iowa, driving to Norfolk, Nebraska. Regular radio programming was interrupted by the announcement that a plane had flown into the World Trade Center--apocalypse was happening! It was shortly before eight a.m. central time on a day that would have many more announcements; how could this be happening in America?
We often make the mistake of assuming that vigilance is someone else's responsibility. We are blessed with so many tools today by which we can assess our present situation, the first and for most being the Bible. With modern language translations, it is not hard to do a systematic study of it. Arm yourself because apocalypse is coming! Will you be prepared for it?
Grace&Peace,
Tom
Friday, February 19, 2010
GABRIEL
. . . while I was speaking in prayer, the man Gabriel, whom I had seen in the vision at the first, came to me in swift flight at the time of the evening sacrifice. He came and he said to me, "O Daniel, I have now come out to give you wisdom and understanding" (Daniel 9:21-22).
And the angel answered him, "I am Gabriel, who stand in the presence of God; and I was sent to speak to you, and to bring you this good news" (Luke 1:19).
In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David (Luke 1:26-27).
Gabriel is mentioned by name only four times in the Bible, twice in Daniel and twice in Luke's gospel. It is highly probable that Gabriel was the angel who appeared to Joseph and to the shepherds as well. What makes him important is that he was the angel that gave Daniel the seventy-weeks time-line prophecy about the time of the coming of the Messiah.
Theophilus, a lover of God, was the one to whom Luke wrote (Luke 1:3-4). Theophilus already had knowledge of the events of the gospel, and I believe knowledge of the Old Testament writings, so that is why Luke mentions Gabriel by name. The Gabriel in Daniel is the same Gabriel in Luke; the events of the nativity were not arbitrary happenings, but were a part of God's time-line for history. God has a time-line for history and that is why Jesus began his ministry by saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent, and believe the gospel (Mark 1:15).
Gabriel seems to be the angel through whom special messianic events are announced. Could he be the one who plays the final trumpet call of God at the final return of the Messiah? For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed (I Corinthians 15:52). One thing of which we can be certain, the first coming of the Messiah indicates that history has direction--will you follow it?
Grace&Peace;
Tom
And the angel answered him, "I am Gabriel, who stand in the presence of God; and I was sent to speak to you, and to bring you this good news" (Luke 1:19).
In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David (Luke 1:26-27).
Gabriel is mentioned by name only four times in the Bible, twice in Daniel and twice in Luke's gospel. It is highly probable that Gabriel was the angel who appeared to Joseph and to the shepherds as well. What makes him important is that he was the angel that gave Daniel the seventy-weeks time-line prophecy about the time of the coming of the Messiah.
Theophilus, a lover of God, was the one to whom Luke wrote (Luke 1:3-4). Theophilus already had knowledge of the events of the gospel, and I believe knowledge of the Old Testament writings, so that is why Luke mentions Gabriel by name. The Gabriel in Daniel is the same Gabriel in Luke; the events of the nativity were not arbitrary happenings, but were a part of God's time-line for history. God has a time-line for history and that is why Jesus began his ministry by saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent, and believe the gospel (Mark 1:15).
Gabriel seems to be the angel through whom special messianic events are announced. Could he be the one who plays the final trumpet call of God at the final return of the Messiah? For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed (I Corinthians 15:52). One thing of which we can be certain, the first coming of the Messiah indicates that history has direction--will you follow it?
Grace&Peace;
Tom
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
HOME AGAIN
Thou hast fixed all the bounds of the earth; thou hast made summer and winter (Psalms 74:17).
The lovely and gracious Helen and I made a quick trip to California for a holiday weekend (President's Day) with Kirk, Rebecca, Faith, Deacon and Parker. It was a great time for a couple of reasons: to renew relationships, celebrating Rebecca and Parker's birthdays, and to just experience a bit of summer. This winter has been a loong, cold and hard one. It was good to experience warm sunshine and green grass! It was good respite therapy for the winter blues that have a grip on many people in the midwest right now.
During my ministry in Rifle, Colorado, I went bear hunting with one of the men in my congregation. It was early May. While we were hunting we came on a small cabin that had been built by a man who stayed the winter there with his wife. The cabin was extremely isolated. Once the snows came to that higher elevation, no one was able to go in or go out. By February the wife had developed an extreme case of cabin fever; she just sat on the edge of the bed and talked to herself. When the snow melted enough so that she could get out, she was gone. The man was still there, that's how I know the story; it didn't seem like he was too interested in tracking down his wife, but I'm not sure that any amount of marriage counseling could save that marriage. I am telling you this little story to illustrate that many of us in the midwest feel like that wife this year and a little time in the warm sun with green grass is a blessing from the Lord!
Grace&Peace,
Tom
The lovely and gracious Helen and I made a quick trip to California for a holiday weekend (President's Day) with Kirk, Rebecca, Faith, Deacon and Parker. It was a great time for a couple of reasons: to renew relationships, celebrating Rebecca and Parker's birthdays, and to just experience a bit of summer. This winter has been a loong, cold and hard one. It was good to experience warm sunshine and green grass! It was good respite therapy for the winter blues that have a grip on many people in the midwest right now.
During my ministry in Rifle, Colorado, I went bear hunting with one of the men in my congregation. It was early May. While we were hunting we came on a small cabin that had been built by a man who stayed the winter there with his wife. The cabin was extremely isolated. Once the snows came to that higher elevation, no one was able to go in or go out. By February the wife had developed an extreme case of cabin fever; she just sat on the edge of the bed and talked to herself. When the snow melted enough so that she could get out, she was gone. The man was still there, that's how I know the story; it didn't seem like he was too interested in tracking down his wife, but I'm not sure that any amount of marriage counseling could save that marriage. I am telling you this little story to illustrate that many of us in the midwest feel like that wife this year and a little time in the warm sun with green grass is a blessing from the Lord!
Grace&Peace,
Tom
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
SCRIPTURE FOR TODAY
Due to some scheduling complications for the next few days I will only leave you with these verses from John: If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just, and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us (I John 1:8-10).
Grace&Peace;
Tom
Grace&Peace;
Tom
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