"And behold, a voice out of the heavens said, ' This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well-pleased.' Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil." Matt 3:17-4:1
Jesus was approximately 30 years old when he was baptized by John the Baptizer. This was not an unusual age for a young rabbi to leave the tutelage of his master and to begin taking on disciples of his own. Jesus, however, was no ordinary young rabbi. At his baptism, we are told that the Holy Spirit came upon him like a dove and the voice of God from heaven identified him as His son. One would think that this was a moment of triumph to be followed immediately by a whirlwind tour of the known world to announce that salvation had come to all of humanity. Instead, Jesus was put into a confrontation with the enemy.
Beloved, there are many who feel that hearing, believing, repenting, confessing (Christ as Lord) and being baptized (for remission of sin and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit) is the goal and destination of Christianity and that the Lord will handle everything else after that. Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, it is upon becoming a child of God that one truly shows up on Satan's radar. By virtue of declaring allegiance to the Father of righteousness, a target is applied and the battle is engaged. For this reason, we must be hyper aware and hyper vigilant.
No one need fall to the fiery darts of the devil. Jesus is our example. Three times in the famous temptation narrative, Satan makes offers that appeal to the human lust of the flesh, lust of the eye and the pride of life and three times Jesus answers him with the word of God. He resisted Satan and Satan left him alone...for a while. When he tried again through Peter, he was again rebuffed until he was ultimately defeated on the cross of Calvary. To be sure, he lost that day, but he is still active and he is still targeting you. Misery loves company.
Rejoicing in the Lord,
Lee
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Resisting Satan-5/8/2012
"Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you." James 4:7
It is sure that Satan exists and that he has targeted humanity as a tactic in his war with God. It is also sure that God knows this and has provided for our protection by equipping us with armor (Eph 6:11-18). By virtue of these facts, it becomes obvious that we have a role to play in this epic struggle. It is certainly up to us to "put on the full armor of God" but prior even to this, we must make a decision to resist Satan rather than submitting to him.
Beloved, it is critical that we understand Satan means us no good. To be sure, we are enticed by him with great subtlety and the use of all kinds of things that appeal to us but we must constantly be aware that indulgence in these things will take us outside the will of our Father. Despite the sometimes very soft and quiet manner in which Satan approaches, it is important to understand that, "Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour," 1 Peter 5:8. He means us no good at all.
I'm reminded of a campaign launched in the late 80's which was designed to keep kids off drugs. It was called "Just Say No!" It was a remarkable effort that accomplished at least three great things. First, it created awareness of a life threatening promise. Second, it provided direction and methodology to deal with the problem. Lastly, it worked. All said, it was simply a new twist on tried and true advice: RESIST! The more we resist, the stronger we will become and the less of a problem he will be. We can literally put the devil on the run. Once we have decided to resist him, the word of God says that we will be successful.
Rejoicing in the Lord,
Lee
It is sure that Satan exists and that he has targeted humanity as a tactic in his war with God. It is also sure that God knows this and has provided for our protection by equipping us with armor (Eph 6:11-18). By virtue of these facts, it becomes obvious that we have a role to play in this epic struggle. It is certainly up to us to "put on the full armor of God" but prior even to this, we must make a decision to resist Satan rather than submitting to him.
Beloved, it is critical that we understand Satan means us no good. To be sure, we are enticed by him with great subtlety and the use of all kinds of things that appeal to us but we must constantly be aware that indulgence in these things will take us outside the will of our Father. Despite the sometimes very soft and quiet manner in which Satan approaches, it is important to understand that, "Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour," 1 Peter 5:8. He means us no good at all.
I'm reminded of a campaign launched in the late 80's which was designed to keep kids off drugs. It was called "Just Say No!" It was a remarkable effort that accomplished at least three great things. First, it created awareness of a life threatening promise. Second, it provided direction and methodology to deal with the problem. Lastly, it worked. All said, it was simply a new twist on tried and true advice: RESIST! The more we resist, the stronger we will become and the less of a problem he will be. We can literally put the devil on the run. Once we have decided to resist him, the word of God says that we will be successful.
Rejoicing in the Lord,
Lee
Monday, May 7, 2012
The Reality of Satan-5/7/2012
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil." Eph 6:10-11
Today we tend only to speak of Satan in passing and then in vague terms. It is almost as if we do not think that he exists (which suits him just fine). We also think in terms of some red guy with horns, a pitchfork and a pointed tail. If only that were the case. Should he fit the stereotype, he would be easily identifiable, we would be able to see him coming and most likely avoid him.
The truth about him is that he is much more subtle than that. Though not called Satan at the time, we have come to understand that it was him that was referred to as "the serpent" in the Genesis account. In one simple conversation he introduced lies, deception, subtlety, manipulation, sin, evil, separation, destruction and death to mankind. These things and more can readily be seen to this day. More importantly, however, his actions in the Garden were not against man per se, but a strategic chess move on the board of eternity against God. We know from Scripture that Satan was once favored of God but was banished from heaven along with a third of the angels whom he had influenced to literally war against God. The battle still wages.
Beloved, God knows that we are being used as pawns by Satan. Satan is attempting to turn us away from the very One and the very reason we were created, to glorify God. Every time he influences an individual to operate outside the will of the Father, he accomplishes another move. God, however, has equipped us for this fight. He has supplied all we need to protect ourselves from his attack. But He has done so in a way that causes us to make a choice just as Adam and Eve did in the Garden and as man has done from that time. We must put on the armor to be protected. Failure to do so leaves us vulnerable and in prime pawn position. Let us not allow ourselves to be used in the fight against God. Let us fight for God. The good news is that the battle has already been won.
Rejoicing in the Lord,
Lee
Today we tend only to speak of Satan in passing and then in vague terms. It is almost as if we do not think that he exists (which suits him just fine). We also think in terms of some red guy with horns, a pitchfork and a pointed tail. If only that were the case. Should he fit the stereotype, he would be easily identifiable, we would be able to see him coming and most likely avoid him.
The truth about him is that he is much more subtle than that. Though not called Satan at the time, we have come to understand that it was him that was referred to as "the serpent" in the Genesis account. In one simple conversation he introduced lies, deception, subtlety, manipulation, sin, evil, separation, destruction and death to mankind. These things and more can readily be seen to this day. More importantly, however, his actions in the Garden were not against man per se, but a strategic chess move on the board of eternity against God. We know from Scripture that Satan was once favored of God but was banished from heaven along with a third of the angels whom he had influenced to literally war against God. The battle still wages.
Beloved, God knows that we are being used as pawns by Satan. Satan is attempting to turn us away from the very One and the very reason we were created, to glorify God. Every time he influences an individual to operate outside the will of the Father, he accomplishes another move. God, however, has equipped us for this fight. He has supplied all we need to protect ourselves from his attack. But He has done so in a way that causes us to make a choice just as Adam and Eve did in the Garden and as man has done from that time. We must put on the armor to be protected. Failure to do so leaves us vulnerable and in prime pawn position. Let us not allow ourselves to be used in the fight against God. Let us fight for God. The good news is that the battle has already been won.
Rejoicing in the Lord,
Lee
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Go Tell Somebody-5/3/2012
"We have an advocate with the Father-Jesus Christ, the Righteous One and He Himself is the propitiation [atoning sacrifice] for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for those of the whole world. 1 John 2:1b-2.
It seems that many of us are a bit hesitant about evangelism. Perhaps it is because we feel that we need special training or that we have to "know the bible" to be able to share our faith with those who do not know the Lord. This presnts us with a problem that most people do not realize they have. Jesus said to his apostles (and to us by extension), "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you" Matt 28:19-20. For the purposes of our discussion, "commanded you" is the key phrase. The Lord has given us all instructions to share his message with others.
Beloved, I invite you to think about the best news you have ever heard. More to the point, I invite you to think about the best thing that has ever happened to you. No one has to tell you to share the good news. In fact, no one could keep you from doing it. It is not unusual to get on the phone with friends in loved ones, post to social media, tell acquaintances at work, school and even church about your blessed good fortune. There is often little technical knowledge necessary, you are simply relating a difference that has been made in your life. That is all evangelism really is; it is simply sharing the good news of the gospel with someone else. All you really need to know is what it took to convince you. Naturally you will come to know more and be able to share more both from a biblical education and a life experience perspective, but to start, it could be as little as inviting someone to attend services or an organized bible study with you.
When we think about the enormity of what has been shared with us and the difference that it has made to our lives, think about the importance of our sharing the same thing with each other. John wrote that Jesus sacrificed himself not only for those of us who have come to believe but for everyone who ever has and ever will live. Somebody has to tell people this amazing fact. That somebody is you.
Rejoicing in the Lord,
Lee
It seems that many of us are a bit hesitant about evangelism. Perhaps it is because we feel that we need special training or that we have to "know the bible" to be able to share our faith with those who do not know the Lord. This presnts us with a problem that most people do not realize they have. Jesus said to his apostles (and to us by extension), "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you" Matt 28:19-20. For the purposes of our discussion, "commanded you" is the key phrase. The Lord has given us all instructions to share his message with others.
Beloved, I invite you to think about the best news you have ever heard. More to the point, I invite you to think about the best thing that has ever happened to you. No one has to tell you to share the good news. In fact, no one could keep you from doing it. It is not unusual to get on the phone with friends in loved ones, post to social media, tell acquaintances at work, school and even church about your blessed good fortune. There is often little technical knowledge necessary, you are simply relating a difference that has been made in your life. That is all evangelism really is; it is simply sharing the good news of the gospel with someone else. All you really need to know is what it took to convince you. Naturally you will come to know more and be able to share more both from a biblical education and a life experience perspective, but to start, it could be as little as inviting someone to attend services or an organized bible study with you.
When we think about the enormity of what has been shared with us and the difference that it has made to our lives, think about the importance of our sharing the same thing with each other. John wrote that Jesus sacrificed himself not only for those of us who have come to believe but for everyone who ever has and ever will live. Somebody has to tell people this amazing fact. That somebody is you.
Rejoicing in the Lord,
Lee
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
No Weapon Formed-5/2/2012 (rp)
"No weapon that is formed against you will prosper" Isa 54:17
There is a man discussed in the scriptures whose name is Lazarus. This Lazarus is known for his suffering and his story is irrevocably connected to one who did not suffer at all in life. Lazarus' story is a heart wrenching one in that he is described as being so sick he had sores, so weak he was laid at the rich man's gate, so poor he is described as a beggar, so friendless dogs gave him his only compassion and so hungry he just begged for crumbs.
Beloved, life can throw all kinds of adversity our way. Whether it is sourced in health difficulties, financial situations, relationship issues, catastrophes, bereavement or general lack, we all experience problems. What is our approach to dealing with what can sometimes be devastating consequences? Does it strengthen our faith or weaken it?
Lazarus eventually died, but we are told that he was carried by angels into Abraham's bosom, ostensibly a place of comfort and peace. Every Christian can expect that same future. Though we may suffer mightily in this life, you must know that no weapon, be it any of the aforementioned difficulties, will prosper against you. As long as you hold on to God's unchanging hand, you will prevail, be it in this life or the next. The Almighty has said, "Live faithful unto death and you will receive a crown of life," Rev 2:10.
Rejoicing in the Lord,
Lee
There is a man discussed in the scriptures whose name is Lazarus. This Lazarus is known for his suffering and his story is irrevocably connected to one who did not suffer at all in life. Lazarus' story is a heart wrenching one in that he is described as being so sick he had sores, so weak he was laid at the rich man's gate, so poor he is described as a beggar, so friendless dogs gave him his only compassion and so hungry he just begged for crumbs.
Beloved, life can throw all kinds of adversity our way. Whether it is sourced in health difficulties, financial situations, relationship issues, catastrophes, bereavement or general lack, we all experience problems. What is our approach to dealing with what can sometimes be devastating consequences? Does it strengthen our faith or weaken it?
Lazarus eventually died, but we are told that he was carried by angels into Abraham's bosom, ostensibly a place of comfort and peace. Every Christian can expect that same future. Though we may suffer mightily in this life, you must know that no weapon, be it any of the aforementioned difficulties, will prosper against you. As long as you hold on to God's unchanging hand, you will prevail, be it in this life or the next. The Almighty has said, "Live faithful unto death and you will receive a crown of life," Rev 2:10.
Rejoicing in the Lord,
Lee
Monday, April 30, 2012
The Invincible Love of God-4/30/2012
For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Rom 8:38-39
Think about the quality of human love. It can be compassionate, caring, giving, self-sacrificing, emotional and much, much more. But it can also be tragically temporary, conditional and even false. Many of us have endured profound hurts because of the sometimes unreliability of human love. There is a love, however, that is perfect.
Consider the love parents have for their newborn child. The child has done nothing to deserve such love. In fact the child has done nothing at all, yet the entirety of the parent's life becomes oriented to that child. A nursery is built, the home is made safe, resources are expended to provide appropriate clothing and food and needs are met 24 hours a day. As the child advances into the infant and toddler stages, they begin to discover the world for themselves and sometimes begin doing unlovable things, yet the parents continue to love them with their whole hearts.
Beloved this is the way that God loves us. We are His children, made in His own image. He blew His own breath into us that we may have life. Those who accept this love are infused with holiness and righteousness that we do not innately possess in and of ourselves (justification). This gives us an unbreakable bond with our heavenly Father. It is a love from which we can never be separated.
Rejoicing in the Lord,
Lee
Think about the quality of human love. It can be compassionate, caring, giving, self-sacrificing, emotional and much, much more. But it can also be tragically temporary, conditional and even false. Many of us have endured profound hurts because of the sometimes unreliability of human love. There is a love, however, that is perfect.
Consider the love parents have for their newborn child. The child has done nothing to deserve such love. In fact the child has done nothing at all, yet the entirety of the parent's life becomes oriented to that child. A nursery is built, the home is made safe, resources are expended to provide appropriate clothing and food and needs are met 24 hours a day. As the child advances into the infant and toddler stages, they begin to discover the world for themselves and sometimes begin doing unlovable things, yet the parents continue to love them with their whole hearts.
Beloved this is the way that God loves us. We are His children, made in His own image. He blew His own breath into us that we may have life. Those who accept this love are infused with holiness and righteousness that we do not innately possess in and of ourselves (justification). This gives us an unbreakable bond with our heavenly Father. It is a love from which we can never be separated.
Rejoicing in the Lord,
Lee
Friday, April 27, 2012
Obeying the Law-4/27/2012
"Remind them to be subject to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good deed, to malign no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing every consideration for all men." Titus 3:1-2
I once said in a sermon (with tongue firmly planted in cheek), "Christians do not need radar detectors." The statment was designed to use humor to make the serious point that we of all people should obey the law. The Lord is quite specific in His commands about this issue. The Holy Spirit inspired Peter to provide the "what" and the "why" by writing, "Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority, or to governors as sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right. For such is the will of God that by doing right you may silence the ignorance of foolish men," 1 Peter 2:13-15. Believe it or not, this sentiment even includes obeying the speed limit.
Beloved, many of us focus on what we consider spiritual laws, commands and ordinances but do not link them to the human law. I submit to you that they are an extension of His requirements of us. Romans 13 tells us that our civic and political leaders are ordained by Him (no matter whether we agree with a particular person's politics or not) and referred to as His ministers. As unpopular as it may be, it even says that we should pay our taxes (vs. 6-7). By this, God is telling us to be good citizens of the earth. As U.S. ambassadors are expected to observe the laws of the countries in which they represent us, we as ambassadors of heaven are expected to observe the laws of the land. Ultimately, God is Lord of all and we, His childre, should be the first to obey.
Rejoicing in the Lord,
Lee
I once said in a sermon (with tongue firmly planted in cheek), "Christians do not need radar detectors." The statment was designed to use humor to make the serious point that we of all people should obey the law. The Lord is quite specific in His commands about this issue. The Holy Spirit inspired Peter to provide the "what" and the "why" by writing, "Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority, or to governors as sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right. For such is the will of God that by doing right you may silence the ignorance of foolish men," 1 Peter 2:13-15. Believe it or not, this sentiment even includes obeying the speed limit.
Beloved, many of us focus on what we consider spiritual laws, commands and ordinances but do not link them to the human law. I submit to you that they are an extension of His requirements of us. Romans 13 tells us that our civic and political leaders are ordained by Him (no matter whether we agree with a particular person's politics or not) and referred to as His ministers. As unpopular as it may be, it even says that we should pay our taxes (vs. 6-7). By this, God is telling us to be good citizens of the earth. As U.S. ambassadors are expected to observe the laws of the countries in which they represent us, we as ambassadors of heaven are expected to observe the laws of the land. Ultimately, God is Lord of all and we, His childre, should be the first to obey.
Rejoicing in the Lord,
Lee
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