"So Joseph's master took him and put him into the jail, the place where the king's prisoners were confined;" Gen 39:20
The truth is that bad things do happen to good people. In this passage, Joseph, having been sold into slavery by his brothers, now finds himself in jail after having been wrongly accused by his master's wife. Particularly tragic is that the scripture records no instance of him doing wrong nor having a bad attitude about his plight.
Beloved, it is the way of life to have both good and bad occur in your life. We celebrate the good and lament the less than fortunate things. The admonition is to trust God, come what may. Likewise, should we find ourselves suffering, let it not be for doing wrong, but for doing what is right.
Though Joseph found himself in slavery, then jail, God was always with him and used these difficult circumstances to prepare him for His work. Throughout his life he developed a talent for administration, wisdom and the communication of God's will. He was loyal, brave, steadfast, honorable, trustworthy and committed. In the end, God rewarded him by elevating him to the highest heights of Egyptian life and through him, saved and grew a nation.
Let us follow his example. Let us not become weary in well doing. God has promised to lift us up as well.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Greater Than the Storm-10/11/2011 (rp)
"And He said, "Come!" And Peter got out of the boat, and walked on the water and came toward Jesus." Matt 14:29
It is a well known biblical account that Peter was the only man other than Jesus to walk on water. It is important to note, however, that there are important facts surrounding the event:
It is a well known biblical account that Peter was the only man other than Jesus to walk on water. It is important to note, however, that there are important facts surrounding the event:
- They were physically separated from Christ when the storms arose in that he had gone to pray and sent them ahead. The account as recorded by Mark in 6:48 reveals that Jesus was aware. Let us take heart that Jesus is always aware of our condition, whether stormy or bright.
- Christ came to them walking on the water. It is important that we know, understand and believe that our Lord, by whom nothing that was made was made, is the master of space, time and the elements. He can walk across and through the storms that terrify us, not simply for the sake of doing it, but to get to us. Let us take heart that Jesus never forsakes us.
- The disciples were terrified at his appearance, imagining him to be a ghost. Far too often we fail to recognize his presence. We mistake him for fate, destiny, providence, luck and happenstance. He is none of these things. Let us take heart that our Lord is a deliberate savior who has not given us the spirit of fear but of love, power and a sound mind.
- Peter had enough faith to leave the relative safety of the boat to walk on the waves his master controls. With faith the size of a mustard seed, we can move mountains. We just need to learn to rely on God instead of ourselves. Let us take heart that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.
- Peter took his eye off the Lord and began to succumb to the storm. Jesus is a bright and shining light. Whenever we remove our gaze and become distracted by the darkness, we are in danger of being overcome by it. Let us take heart that Jesus is the light of the world and in him there is no darkness.
- According to the account in Mark, they welcomed him into the boat and the storm ceased immediately. According to the account in John, they were then immediately at their destination. Know that things are better in the company of the Lord than out of the company of the Lord. Though we will all endure adversity from time to time, we are never alone. If we welcome him into our lives, he will eventually guide us to our destination. Take heart that he has prepared a place for us, that where he goes, we may be also.
Beloved, think on these things in times of trial and tribulation. Think on them more in times of peace and prosperity.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
Monday, October 10, 2011
GPS-10/10/2011
"And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12
We live in a choice driven world. Everyone seems to want to either blaze their own trail and go their own way or chose from a plethora of trails to get to a common destination. We seek to distinguish ourselves by being different than the next person. For this reason standards become diluted. Whereas this human trait may be responsible for many of the advances we have achieved, when it comes to salvation, there has only ever been one way.
Beloved, Jesus is the doorway through which we must enter in order to gain our heavenly home. He emphatically states in Jn 14:6, "I am the way, the truth and the life; no man comes to the Father except through me." Though we change, the Way does not. The Hebrew writer offers, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." The standard has been established and is accessible to everyone who chooses to follow Him. Many will espouse different ways to reach paradise but make no mistake, the only road map, established by God, gives one route and one route only. Let us follow the ultimate GPS (God Positioning System) and share the directions with others.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
We live in a choice driven world. Everyone seems to want to either blaze their own trail and go their own way or chose from a plethora of trails to get to a common destination. We seek to distinguish ourselves by being different than the next person. For this reason standards become diluted. Whereas this human trait may be responsible for many of the advances we have achieved, when it comes to salvation, there has only ever been one way.
Beloved, Jesus is the doorway through which we must enter in order to gain our heavenly home. He emphatically states in Jn 14:6, "I am the way, the truth and the life; no man comes to the Father except through me." Though we change, the Way does not. The Hebrew writer offers, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." The standard has been established and is accessible to everyone who chooses to follow Him. Many will espouse different ways to reach paradise but make no mistake, the only road map, established by God, gives one route and one route only. Let us follow the ultimate GPS (God Positioning System) and share the directions with others.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
Friday, October 7, 2011
Works do not Save-10/7/2011
"For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast." Eph 2:8-9
For those who know me personally, you are aware that I am currently pursuing a Masters of Arts in Religion with an emphasis in Biblical Studies. With all of my other responsibilities, you might correctly imagine that it is very demanding. So if you see a tad bit of inconsistency in timing and delivery or an an unusual amount of reposts, prayerfully you will understand why. I give praise to God, however, that I am learning something new every day. Some of that learning is shared with you through this and other forums.
Having said all of that beloved, I thought I'd share with you a not untypical assignment from a course on apologetics. My classmates and I were asked to discuss the relationship between works and salvation from an apologists (evangelistic) point of view.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
___________________________________________________________________________________
If works do not provide salvation, then what role do they play in the Christian life?
INTRODUCTION
Most individuals are taught from an early age that in order to obtain a desired thing, status or way of life, it must be earned through work. After the fall in the Garden of Eden, God established the necessity to work, even to eat, when He said to Adam, “By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food until you return to the ground.”[1] The desire of the eye, the needs of the body, and the demands of the ego are not to be confused with the way to salvation. Despite the fact that some teach that salvation is to be earned through works, no works can be done that can accomplish what Jesus has already done, however works can and should be done because of salvation and these will be rewarded on earth and in heaven.
OVERVIEW
The Jehovah’s Witnesses boast a membership of over six and a half million.[2] Each of these individuals have been taught that, “Door-to-door witnessing, conducting Bible ‘studies’ and remaining obedient to the ‘faithful and discreet servants’ (leadership of the Watchtower) are all necessary for salvation.”[3] The Jehovah’s Witnesses are just one example of a salvation by works theology. An examination of the scriptures reveals this type of doctrine to be false.
BODY
It is only through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus the Christ that salvation can be obtained. Romans 5:8-9 reveals that it was Christ’s death that provides us with justification and salvation from the wrath of God. Further, Paul writes, “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit.”[4] Isaiah presses the point of the uselessness of righteous acts by stating, all our righteous acts are like filthy rags.”[5] Scripture frequently points out that salvation cannot be earned by human effort but only through that which Jesus accomplished on our behalf.
Though works themselves do not save, works can and should be pursued because of salvation. Paul wrote to the saved Christians at Philippi with instructions to “work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purposes.” The Greek word for “work out” (katergazomai) means to fashion or render one fit for a thing. In essence, Paul, in his letter to the congregation is telling them that while he is gone, they are to continue doing the things that God has placed in them as His children that He may be pleased and that they may be an example. This would help them live up to the salvation which they had already received.
Although works do not save, there is a beneficial earthly and heavenly reward that can be obtained through them. Timothy was told to, “Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasures for themselves as a firm foundation for that coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.”[6] By doing good works, Christians not only obtain the good feeling of helping others, they also add to their promised reward. The point is further made in Eph 6:7-8 when Paul writes, “Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people, because you know the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do, whether they are slave or free.”
CONCLUSION
There is certainly a value to doing good works; however, salvation is not the result of them. An everlasting existence with the Father is only available through the atoning work of Jesus, but works should be pursued because of salvation, as well as the earthly and heavenly benefit. The human psychology of earning what a person gets is admirable. This is also a biblical teaching in that it is written, “if any would not work, neither should he eat.”[7] This doctrine does not, however, extend to salvation. To teach that it does devalues the life, teaching, death, burial and resurrection of the son of God.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Hindson, Ed, and Ergun Caner, eds. The Popular Encyclopedia of Apologetics. Eugene: Harvest House Publishers, 2008.
Horton, David, ed. The Portable Seminary. Grand Rapids: Bethany House, 2006.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[1] Gen 3:19 (NIV).
[2]David Horton, ed., The Portable Seminary (Grand Rapids: Bethany House, 2006), 419.
[3]Ed Hindson and Ergun Caner, eds., The Popular Encyclopedia of Apologetics (Eugene: Harvest House Publishers, 2008), 292.
[4]Titus 3:5.
[5]Isa 64:6.
[6]1 Tim 6:18-19.
[7]2 Thes 3:10.
For those who know me personally, you are aware that I am currently pursuing a Masters of Arts in Religion with an emphasis in Biblical Studies. With all of my other responsibilities, you might correctly imagine that it is very demanding. So if you see a tad bit of inconsistency in timing and delivery or an an unusual amount of reposts, prayerfully you will understand why. I give praise to God, however, that I am learning something new every day. Some of that learning is shared with you through this and other forums.
Having said all of that beloved, I thought I'd share with you a not untypical assignment from a course on apologetics. My classmates and I were asked to discuss the relationship between works and salvation from an apologists (evangelistic) point of view.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
___________________________________________________________________________________
If works do not provide salvation, then what role do they play in the Christian life?
INTRODUCTION
Most individuals are taught from an early age that in order to obtain a desired thing, status or way of life, it must be earned through work. After the fall in the Garden of Eden, God established the necessity to work, even to eat, when He said to Adam, “By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food until you return to the ground.”[1] The desire of the eye, the needs of the body, and the demands of the ego are not to be confused with the way to salvation. Despite the fact that some teach that salvation is to be earned through works, no works can be done that can accomplish what Jesus has already done, however works can and should be done because of salvation and these will be rewarded on earth and in heaven.
OVERVIEW
The Jehovah’s Witnesses boast a membership of over six and a half million.[2] Each of these individuals have been taught that, “Door-to-door witnessing, conducting Bible ‘studies’ and remaining obedient to the ‘faithful and discreet servants’ (leadership of the Watchtower) are all necessary for salvation.”[3] The Jehovah’s Witnesses are just one example of a salvation by works theology. An examination of the scriptures reveals this type of doctrine to be false.
BODY
It is only through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus the Christ that salvation can be obtained. Romans 5:8-9 reveals that it was Christ’s death that provides us with justification and salvation from the wrath of God. Further, Paul writes, “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit.”[4] Isaiah presses the point of the uselessness of righteous acts by stating, all our righteous acts are like filthy rags.”[5] Scripture frequently points out that salvation cannot be earned by human effort but only through that which Jesus accomplished on our behalf.
Though works themselves do not save, works can and should be pursued because of salvation. Paul wrote to the saved Christians at Philippi with instructions to “work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purposes.” The Greek word for “work out” (katergazomai) means to fashion or render one fit for a thing. In essence, Paul, in his letter to the congregation is telling them that while he is gone, they are to continue doing the things that God has placed in them as His children that He may be pleased and that they may be an example. This would help them live up to the salvation which they had already received.
Although works do not save, there is a beneficial earthly and heavenly reward that can be obtained through them. Timothy was told to, “Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasures for themselves as a firm foundation for that coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.”[6] By doing good works, Christians not only obtain the good feeling of helping others, they also add to their promised reward. The point is further made in Eph 6:7-8 when Paul writes, “Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people, because you know the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do, whether they are slave or free.”
CONCLUSION
There is certainly a value to doing good works; however, salvation is not the result of them. An everlasting existence with the Father is only available through the atoning work of Jesus, but works should be pursued because of salvation, as well as the earthly and heavenly benefit. The human psychology of earning what a person gets is admirable. This is also a biblical teaching in that it is written, “if any would not work, neither should he eat.”[7] This doctrine does not, however, extend to salvation. To teach that it does devalues the life, teaching, death, burial and resurrection of the son of God.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Hindson, Ed, and Ergun Caner, eds. The Popular Encyclopedia of Apologetics. Eugene: Harvest House Publishers, 2008.
Horton, David, ed. The Portable Seminary. Grand Rapids: Bethany House, 2006.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[1] Gen 3:19 (NIV).
[2]David Horton, ed., The Portable Seminary (Grand Rapids: Bethany House, 2006), 419.
[3]Ed Hindson and Ergun Caner, eds., The Popular Encyclopedia of Apologetics (Eugene: Harvest House Publishers, 2008), 292.
[4]Titus 3:5.
[5]Isa 64:6.
[6]1 Tim 6:18-19.
[7]2 Thes 3:10.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Help Wanted-10/6/2011
"The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few." Matt 9:37
Christ uttered this statement after wandering through the city blessing and healing the people and noticing that they were "harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." To this day, there remains harassed and helpless people that are in need, yet without leadership, love or hope.
Within the context of this scripture, we Christians are not those sheep. In fact, we are the workers that are few. Many of us forget that we are the called according to His purpose. We are not called to be "resters," "sitters," "talkers," "vacationers," "loafers," "slackers" or "sluggards" but workers. We must remember that, "we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them." Eph 2:10. We were created for a purpose and the meaning of life is to live out that purpose.
Beloved we should have the compassion of Christ. We should see the same thing he does; a sin sick world in need of healing, a bounty in need of harvesting. We should be ever busy accomplishing His will, for the bible has said that we must work while it is day, for night comes when no man can work. Let us do all that we can while we can to share Christ with others as was done for us.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
Christ uttered this statement after wandering through the city blessing and healing the people and noticing that they were "harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." To this day, there remains harassed and helpless people that are in need, yet without leadership, love or hope.
Within the context of this scripture, we Christians are not those sheep. In fact, we are the workers that are few. Many of us forget that we are the called according to His purpose. We are not called to be "resters," "sitters," "talkers," "vacationers," "loafers," "slackers" or "sluggards" but workers. We must remember that, "we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them." Eph 2:10. We were created for a purpose and the meaning of life is to live out that purpose.
Beloved we should have the compassion of Christ. We should see the same thing he does; a sin sick world in need of healing, a bounty in need of harvesting. We should be ever busy accomplishing His will, for the bible has said that we must work while it is day, for night comes when no man can work. Let us do all that we can while we can to share Christ with others as was done for us.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Doing All Spiritual Things Through His Strengthening-10/4/2011
"I can do all things through Him that strengthens me." Phi 4:13
This scripture has been used as source of strength for many despite the fact that is often taken out of context. What comes immediately to mind is its use by athletes going into competition, most notably boxers. Sometimes, both boxers or contestants are wearing the same scripture. While reliance on God is admirable, what does it say to the wearer and the audience if there is a loss? Can one NOT do all things with the strength of the Lord?
Beloved, it is important that we understand what the author was trying to convey to his original audience when we read, study and use scripture. In this case, Paul was in prison. He was relaying via messenger to the church at Philippi that he was well. He admitted that his situation was a bit tough at the moment but also talked about the times things were fantastic. His point was that he had learned how to be content in both the best and worst circumstances. He gives Jesus the credit for giving him this ability.
With the proper understanding of this famous passage, we too can use it for strength in situations when we are on the mountain top as well as when we are in the valley. We, like Paul, have been divinely equipped, not to win the next ball game, but the next spiritual battle, the next seemingly hopeless situation, the next despair and the next prosperous situation (which for some is handled worse than tough times).
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
This scripture has been used as source of strength for many despite the fact that is often taken out of context. What comes immediately to mind is its use by athletes going into competition, most notably boxers. Sometimes, both boxers or contestants are wearing the same scripture. While reliance on God is admirable, what does it say to the wearer and the audience if there is a loss? Can one NOT do all things with the strength of the Lord?
Beloved, it is important that we understand what the author was trying to convey to his original audience when we read, study and use scripture. In this case, Paul was in prison. He was relaying via messenger to the church at Philippi that he was well. He admitted that his situation was a bit tough at the moment but also talked about the times things were fantastic. His point was that he had learned how to be content in both the best and worst circumstances. He gives Jesus the credit for giving him this ability.
With the proper understanding of this famous passage, we too can use it for strength in situations when we are on the mountain top as well as when we are in the valley. We, like Paul, have been divinely equipped, not to win the next ball game, but the next spiritual battle, the next seemingly hopeless situation, the next despair and the next prosperous situation (which for some is handled worse than tough times).
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
Monday, October 3, 2011
God is Greater-10/3/2011 (rp)
"For You are the Lord Most High over all the earth; You are exalted far above all gods."
Ps 97:9
How seldom we do meditate on the greatness of God. He is the one that formed all that there is simply by speaking it into existence. From the greatest galaxy full of the most stars to the smallest component of the atom, our Father is the creative force and the power behind it all. And there, at the pinnacle of His creation, stand we, former mounds of dirt, without whose living breath, would still be just dirt.
He is a God that has provided everything pertaining to life. There is nothing that we need that he does not supply. He provides us with love, assurance, protection sustenance, a savior, a body to which to belong and an inheritance. He guides our footsteps and answers our prayers. He cares for us more than any of us know.
Why then do we focus so much more on the things provided than the Provider? All too often, we fit the description of those, "whose end is destruction, whose god is their appetite, and whose glory is in their shame, who set their minds on earthly things." Phil 3:19. It is the material and temporal that become our lower case gods; gods that cannot save nor provide. It is by these gods that we become acquainted with the idolatry we so often read about in the word.
Beloved God is greater than any created thing. God is greater than we can know or imagine. Let us not live below our privilege but live up to it by praising, worshipping and serving Him with whom we have to do. Let us reflect on His greatness.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
Ps 97:9
How seldom we do meditate on the greatness of God. He is the one that formed all that there is simply by speaking it into existence. From the greatest galaxy full of the most stars to the smallest component of the atom, our Father is the creative force and the power behind it all. And there, at the pinnacle of His creation, stand we, former mounds of dirt, without whose living breath, would still be just dirt.
He is a God that has provided everything pertaining to life. There is nothing that we need that he does not supply. He provides us with love, assurance, protection sustenance, a savior, a body to which to belong and an inheritance. He guides our footsteps and answers our prayers. He cares for us more than any of us know.
Why then do we focus so much more on the things provided than the Provider? All too often, we fit the description of those, "whose end is destruction, whose god is their appetite, and whose glory is in their shame, who set their minds on earthly things." Phil 3:19. It is the material and temporal that become our lower case gods; gods that cannot save nor provide. It is by these gods that we become acquainted with the idolatry we so often read about in the word.
Beloved God is greater than any created thing. God is greater than we can know or imagine. Let us not live below our privilege but live up to it by praising, worshipping and serving Him with whom we have to do. Let us reflect on His greatness.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
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