Eph 1:3-14
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, 4 just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him. In love 5 He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will, 6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. 7 In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace 8 which He lavished on us. In all wisdom and insight 9 He made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His kind intention which He purposed in Him 10 with a view to an administration suitable to the fullness of the times, that is, the summing up of all things in Christ, things in the heavens and things on the earth. In Him 11 also we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to His purpose who works all things after the counsel of His will, 12 to the end that we who were the first to hope in Christ would be to the praise of His glory. 13 In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation — having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, 14 who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption ofGod's own possession, to the praise of His glory.
NASU
Eph 1:3-14
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ,
We are often asked after Christmas “What did you get?” When you consider that the “Wondrous gift” given in Christ as He is called in the Carol O Little Town of Bethlehem, We should consider what gifts we have been given in Christ. The Apostle Paul here begins his letter with a word of praise to God as the Father of our Lord and draws our attention to the gift of God he calls “every Spiritual Blessing in the heavenly places” The Christian should be ever aware that our treasure in Christ is stored up in heaven. Any gifts or riches we may have here are resources to be used here for the glory of God for this is the purpose of our salvation as we are told in Eph 2:10
For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them. NASU
as well as in other places. Our real treasures which are ours to keep are those which are in heaven.
4 just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world,
Our first gift is that we are chosen. Not on our own merit or because of anything that we had done but before the foundation of the world for Gods own purposes and glory. Let those who are lost worry about what is is to be not chosen. If you are in Christ you have the assurance of God's own unimpeachable Word that you are chosen.
that we would be holy and blameless before Him.
The result of our having been chosen is that we are called by God “holy and blameless” this too is a status imputed to us by God's own decree, for if we are to examine our conduct we will not find that our actions merit such a title. We are in face holy and blameless “before him” that is, God the Father, as he has given us this status and see us us only as he calls us in that given quality of holiness. It is as though he has chosen to call his beloved “lovely” and she remains lovely in his sight regardless of how she appears to other men.
In love 5 He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will,
It is no stretch to use the analogy of love as this next line says that it is in fact love which moves the almighty to predestine his church (that is the “us”), we believers, to adoption as sons. We have been adopted and are therefore doubly loved, for a child of birth is loved because it is our own, unless something is wrong with the parent, but an adopted child is not our own yet chosen to be loved when the parent is not compelled by any reason except love to do so. Women should not be offended at the phrase “as sons” for this is not an exclusion but a status. In the Apostle's time a daughter held a lesser place in the house than a son. So even women who are believers are afforded the same adoption as men and afforded the same benefits as would “sons”.
This adoption is accomplished through Jesus Christ so that we may be “sons” of the Father. We are not Children of God by nature as some have loved to proclaim. But only and at great cost, through Jesus Christ, or else this passage would be a lie and it give us no certain hope.
Finally again we are assured that it is the will of God, the “kind” will, or his “good pleasure,” which brought us all this. If we should ask God why this was done He would respond only that it pleased Him to do so.
6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved.
Knowing that it was His good pleasure and will drives us all the more to praise His grace. We do not merely praise his might or riches that He can generously reward the deserving like some philanthropist. But in His grace he chose to give such things to the undeserving. These things were given to us in “the Beloved” which is Christ. We know this because of what follows.
7 In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace8 which He lavished on us.
What else we have received includes our purchase and redemption by the blood of Jesus, for he did more than come in the flesh, but also died willingly for us. We also receive the forgiveness of those things which we have done which would lead us to fear that we cannot receive the very gifts we have just been told are ours in Christ. This too is out of the “riches of His Grace”, “lavished” on us as one who loves gives extravagantly to the beloved.
In all wisdom and insight 9 He made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His kind intention which He purposed in Him
Not content merely to do these things in secret, God made known to us what could otherwise remain unknown to us. His will and plan are revealed again out of the good pleasure of God's purpose for Jesus Christ. Even if all were to be saved how pitiable would be our lives if we were left to grope and grovel under the slavery to sin and the fear of punishment when it was God's intention that we would be saved. Instead we are gifted with the joy of knowing that we have been forgiven and adopted as God's beloved Children.
10 with a view to an administration suitable to the fullness of the times, that is, the summing up of all things in Christ, things in the heavens and things on the earth.
This is to say that it is God's will that all tings be “set right” and ordered from the chaotic state which sin and death have thrown them, separating heaven and earth, God and man, and even our relations to one another. In Christ “peace on earth” is show to be God's final will and purpose, not merely absence of conflict, but true order and justice and righteousness.
In Him 11 also we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to His purpose who works all things after the counsel of His will,
As sons we also receive an inheritance again assured to us by the unbreakability of God's Word and will.
12 to the end that we who were the first to hope in Christ would be to the praise of His glory.
All of this not merely for our benefit, but certainly to our benefit, but for “the praise of His glory.” that is to bring about the deserved worship of God. We are introduced to God rightly in Christ so that we may respond with praise.
13 In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation — having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise,
Lest we should say all receive the benefits of this we are assured that only those who have heard the Word of this “gospel”, (such good news!) have assurance of our inclusion in this promise. Some may have it and not yet know and as I said before that is a pitiable state, but we have the sign and seal of this promise when we have heard and believed the gospel.
14 who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of God's own possession, to the praise of His glory.
The gift of God the Holy Spirit which dwells in each believer individually and is evident in the church as a body is the token like a receipt reminding us that all of these promises are ours. The purpose of this is again, our redemption to be included in God's own people and family to the ultimate end of inciting praise of His Glory. Worship is the end result of all of the gifts that we have been given in Christ.
In Christ and on the Shepherd's Path,
Mark
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
A Season to Remember who you are...
It's right at that time that newsletter stuff is due again and I was looking for inspiration this morning. While checking my junk email box I stumbled on an ad for Deering Banjo's that provided me a bit of help. In what I realistically know to be a sales ad, Barry Hunn (who is the Worldwide Sales Manager for Deering wrote this gem.
“One of the most healing aspects of creating music is that it is a healthy vehicle to bring us closer to our inner self. It can put us in touch with the creative part of us, or perhaps, the most central part of us, that often gets diverted when the pressures of our daily lives lead our attention away from the core of who we are. Isn’t that wonderful? By merely sitting and strumming the banjo, playing songs or just improvising with a few chords or rolls, we focus our ears, our hands, our hearts and attitudes on that beautiful sparkling banjo sound, bringing us back to our creative self, the happiest part of being human.”
While I recognize the often exaggerated tendency of musicians and artists to spiritualize their work, I will say I agree with much of what he wrote. (The full article is at http://www.deeringbanjos.com/DeeringProductPages/Music_Beyond_Technique.html)
It really is all about the joy. I would add that being creative opens us up to realize the signature of the Creator upon us. Joy and an appreciation for beauty are what makes us human and separates us from the call of Satan and the world to be merely efficient animals.
Why am I inspired by this? Because last night I requested from session the opportunity to take a day of rest on Monday December 1, since, the day after Thanksgiving, on which I would be off, is already on my day off, and I discovered, it also falls on Light Up Night, when I'll be working at that event. Also this busy time of year is when I'm thinking about Budgets, giving, that I am told is down, Filling Leadership posts on Session, Deacon's and Trustees...and also the incredible opportunities for ministry we have even while trying to figure out how best to use our resources to do them. It is a time when it is tempting to think in terms of “human resources”, “economic realities” and “efficiency.” In short it is tempting to become the Devil's own efficient animal.
Yet at the same time we start a new season, with a pause in our schedule to give Thanks. To sit at the table with family and friends and enjoy food and remember that we are not just animals but people, who love one another, even with our imperfections, and give thanks too the God who created us, and gives to us gifts, that while they are resources, are also a joy to use. Leadership slots become Opportunities to worship through service. Giving becomes offerings of Thanks and a chance to enthusiastically imagine what God will allow us to do together in the coming year.
And all in all, I look to this season where, having given thanks, we prepare to celebrate that Christ came into the world to release us from slavery and make us the human creations God made us to be, no longer sin trapped “animals” but his own people. Wow! Don't forget this. Celebrate! These are Holy-Days to remember God's amazing gifts.
In Christ and on the Shepherd's Path,
Mark
“One of the most healing aspects of creating music is that it is a healthy vehicle to bring us closer to our inner self. It can put us in touch with the creative part of us, or perhaps, the most central part of us, that often gets diverted when the pressures of our daily lives lead our attention away from the core of who we are. Isn’t that wonderful? By merely sitting and strumming the banjo, playing songs or just improvising with a few chords or rolls, we focus our ears, our hands, our hearts and attitudes on that beautiful sparkling banjo sound, bringing us back to our creative self, the happiest part of being human.”
While I recognize the often exaggerated tendency of musicians and artists to spiritualize their work, I will say I agree with much of what he wrote. (The full article is at http://www.deeringbanjos.com/DeeringProductPages/Music_Beyond_Technique.html)
It really is all about the joy. I would add that being creative opens us up to realize the signature of the Creator upon us. Joy and an appreciation for beauty are what makes us human and separates us from the call of Satan and the world to be merely efficient animals.
Why am I inspired by this? Because last night I requested from session the opportunity to take a day of rest on Monday December 1, since, the day after Thanksgiving, on which I would be off, is already on my day off, and I discovered, it also falls on Light Up Night, when I'll be working at that event. Also this busy time of year is when I'm thinking about Budgets, giving, that I am told is down, Filling Leadership posts on Session, Deacon's and Trustees...and also the incredible opportunities for ministry we have even while trying to figure out how best to use our resources to do them. It is a time when it is tempting to think in terms of “human resources”, “economic realities” and “efficiency.” In short it is tempting to become the Devil's own efficient animal.
Yet at the same time we start a new season, with a pause in our schedule to give Thanks. To sit at the table with family and friends and enjoy food and remember that we are not just animals but people, who love one another, even with our imperfections, and give thanks too the God who created us, and gives to us gifts, that while they are resources, are also a joy to use. Leadership slots become Opportunities to worship through service. Giving becomes offerings of Thanks and a chance to enthusiastically imagine what God will allow us to do together in the coming year.
And all in all, I look to this season where, having given thanks, we prepare to celebrate that Christ came into the world to release us from slavery and make us the human creations God made us to be, no longer sin trapped “animals” but his own people. Wow! Don't forget this. Celebrate! These are Holy-Days to remember God's amazing gifts.
In Christ and on the Shepherd's Path,
Mark
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Sunday Nov 9, 2008
Acts 9:32-43
Now as Peter was traveling through all those regions, he came down also to the saints who lived at Lydda. 33 There he found a man named Aeneas, who had been bedridden eight years, for he was paralyzed. 34 Peter said to him, "Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you; get up and make your bed." Immediately he got up. 35 And all who lived at Lydda and Sharon saw him, and they turned to the Lord.
36 Now in Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (which translated in Greek is called Dorcas); this woman was abounding with deeds of kindness and charity which she continually did. 37 And it happened at that time that she fell sick and died; and when they had washed her body, they laid it in an upper room. 38 Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, having heard that Peter was there, sent two men to him, imploring him, "Do not delay in coming to us." 39 So Peter arose and went with them. When he arrived, they brought him into the upper room; and all the widows stood beside him, weeping and showing all the tunics and garments that Dorcas used to make while she was with them. 40 But Peter sent them all out and knelt down and prayed, and turning to the body, he said, " Tabitha, arise." And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter, she sat up. 41 And he gave her his hand and raised her up; and calling the saints and widows, he presented her alive. 42 It became known all over Joppa, and many believed in the Lord. 43 And Peter stayed many days in Joppa with a tanner named Simon.
NASU
Acts 9:32-43 Exposition
Now as Peter was traveling through all those regions, he came down also to the saints who lived at Lydda.
Turning from Saul to Peter we now see Peter traveling through those regions that were enjoying this new season of peace. It says he is going to the “saints” at Lydda. His visit is significant because he is beginning to do the work of strengthening the saints in the regions where the Church exists. Our role is to grow the church but it is also to equip and edify those who are in the church. Again we also see the reliance of the believers on one another, visiting groups of existing saints and using that place to do the work that they came to do. The church at large is connected to one another and we should receive with joy a brother or sister from another place who is a fellow “saint” in Christ.
33 There he found a man named Aeneas, who had been bedridden eight years, for he was paralyzed.
Most likely Aeneas is one of these “saints” at Lydda and if so it shows the care of the Apostle for the saints offering such aid as he was enabled to the man who was paralyzed.
34 Peter said to him, "Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you; get up and make your bed." Immediately he got up.
Our duty to the Saints is to offer them immediately and fully any aid we are able to give. Peter, having worked miracles before had no reason to doubt that he could, offer healing through Jesus Christ. Notice he says Jesus Christ heals you. It was not Peter but Christ who healed Aeneas. He also expected Aeneas to make his bed once standing, significant because he was not to expect a relapse and the need to lie on his sickbed again. We, not having worked miracles as regularly as Peter, may hesitate to b e so bold as to declare a sick brother or sister well, yet we should be bold to pray for their healing and expect that God has the power to do what we would ask. Otherwise why should we pray at all. Like Peter, we too should not hesitate to offer whatever help we can. If only prayer, then we should pray immediately and in faith. If friendship, love, comfort or help then freely and as much as we can.
35 And all who lived at Lydda and Sharon saw him, and they turned to the Lord.
Our treatment of one another in the church is significant for when it is done well it draws others toward Christ. Obviously this was more dramatic when a miracle is involved to confirm the supernatural power of Christ and to authenticate the ministry of the Apostles. Yet still it is significant that our light as we shine it draws attention to our Lord.
36 Now in Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (which translated in Greek is called Dorcas); this woman was abounding with deeds of kindness and charity which she continually did.
Faussett's Bible dictionary tells us of Tabitha, “TABITHA, Aramaic, corresponding to Hebrew tsebiah, "a female gazelle," Dorcas (Acts 9:36), the emblem of beauty. The Christian woman at Joppa, "full of good works and alms deeds" (as making coats and garments for poor widows,”
(from Fausset's Bible Dictionary, Electronic Database Copyright (c)1998, 2003 by Biblesoft)
It is a reminder of the later command of Peter, in 1 Peter 3:3-4
And let not your adornment be merely external — braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; 4 but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God. NASB
Tabitha's beauty is in her service to others.
37 And it happened at that time that she fell sick and died; and when they had washed her body, they laid it in an upper room.
Her sickness and death occasions the sending of people to Peter, presuming he might do something for her.
38 Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, having heard that Peter was there, sent two men to him, imploring him, "Do not delay in coming to us." 39 So Peter arose and went with them.
The people at Joppa must have believed that Peter could do something for Tabitha since they implored him to come with such urgency. Peter likewise responds to their urgency by going with them. We as well should respond to requests with similar urgency. We should give all we can and if we seem to be unable to help, turn to God in immediate and urgent prayer and turn to our gifts, talents, and connections with others to seek help where it may be given.
When he arrived, they brought him into the upper room; and all the widows stood beside him, weeping and showing all the tunics and garments that Dorcas used to make while she was with them.
Dorcas' (Tabitha's) character is shown by the love that the believers showed to her, that they spoke to Peter of all she had been doing. Their weeping was genuine as they mourned the loss to them of such a great woman of faith.
40 But Peter sent them all out and knelt down and prayed, and turning to the body, he said, " Tabitha, arise." And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter, she sat up. 41 And he gave her his hand and raised her up; and calling the saints and widows, he presented her alive.
This miracle was not public like others. Notice Peter sent them all away and turned to the Lord in Prayer. His response to do something was immediate. His action was not. He first sought the direction of the Lord. The request to make a difference for someone who was dead was perhaps overwhelming to Peter. Claiming no power of his own and without making any claims as to what he would do, he retreats from them for private prayer. Then as he was assuredly directed or freed by the Spirit to do, he spoke to the lifeless body as though she were alive telling her to get up. In God's almighty power, a demonstration that life and death belong in the realm of God's power, she returns to life. She is then presented alive to those who had sought Peter.
42 It became known all over Joppa, and many believed in the Lord.
The word spread that Tabitha had been healed and this led to others in the city coming to faith in Jesus Christ. It is significant that it led to faith in the Lord and not in Peter. The word had not only speread concerning her resurrection, but also that the miracle had been done in Jesus Name; thus it led to faith in Him. Faith is receiving Jesus Christ as Lord after hearing the word concerning Him. We likewise should trust all the more in Him whenever we hear the Word accurately proclaimed about him.
Now as Peter was traveling through all those regions, he came down also to the saints who lived at Lydda. 33 There he found a man named Aeneas, who had been bedridden eight years, for he was paralyzed. 34 Peter said to him, "Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you; get up and make your bed." Immediately he got up. 35 And all who lived at Lydda and Sharon saw him, and they turned to the Lord.
36 Now in Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (which translated in Greek is called Dorcas); this woman was abounding with deeds of kindness and charity which she continually did. 37 And it happened at that time that she fell sick and died; and when they had washed her body, they laid it in an upper room. 38 Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, having heard that Peter was there, sent two men to him, imploring him, "Do not delay in coming to us." 39 So Peter arose and went with them. When he arrived, they brought him into the upper room; and all the widows stood beside him, weeping and showing all the tunics and garments that Dorcas used to make while she was with them. 40 But Peter sent them all out and knelt down and prayed, and turning to the body, he said, " Tabitha, arise." And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter, she sat up. 41 And he gave her his hand and raised her up; and calling the saints and widows, he presented her alive. 42 It became known all over Joppa, and many believed in the Lord. 43 And Peter stayed many days in Joppa with a tanner named Simon.
NASU
Acts 9:32-43 Exposition
Now as Peter was traveling through all those regions, he came down also to the saints who lived at Lydda.
Turning from Saul to Peter we now see Peter traveling through those regions that were enjoying this new season of peace. It says he is going to the “saints” at Lydda. His visit is significant because he is beginning to do the work of strengthening the saints in the regions where the Church exists. Our role is to grow the church but it is also to equip and edify those who are in the church. Again we also see the reliance of the believers on one another, visiting groups of existing saints and using that place to do the work that they came to do. The church at large is connected to one another and we should receive with joy a brother or sister from another place who is a fellow “saint” in Christ.
33 There he found a man named Aeneas, who had been bedridden eight years, for he was paralyzed.
Most likely Aeneas is one of these “saints” at Lydda and if so it shows the care of the Apostle for the saints offering such aid as he was enabled to the man who was paralyzed.
34 Peter said to him, "Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you; get up and make your bed." Immediately he got up.
Our duty to the Saints is to offer them immediately and fully any aid we are able to give. Peter, having worked miracles before had no reason to doubt that he could, offer healing through Jesus Christ. Notice he says Jesus Christ heals you. It was not Peter but Christ who healed Aeneas. He also expected Aeneas to make his bed once standing, significant because he was not to expect a relapse and the need to lie on his sickbed again. We, not having worked miracles as regularly as Peter, may hesitate to b e so bold as to declare a sick brother or sister well, yet we should be bold to pray for their healing and expect that God has the power to do what we would ask. Otherwise why should we pray at all. Like Peter, we too should not hesitate to offer whatever help we can. If only prayer, then we should pray immediately and in faith. If friendship, love, comfort or help then freely and as much as we can.
35 And all who lived at Lydda and Sharon saw him, and they turned to the Lord.
Our treatment of one another in the church is significant for when it is done well it draws others toward Christ. Obviously this was more dramatic when a miracle is involved to confirm the supernatural power of Christ and to authenticate the ministry of the Apostles. Yet still it is significant that our light as we shine it draws attention to our Lord.
36 Now in Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (which translated in Greek is called Dorcas); this woman was abounding with deeds of kindness and charity which she continually did.
Faussett's Bible dictionary tells us of Tabitha, “TABITHA, Aramaic, corresponding to Hebrew tsebiah, "a female gazelle," Dorcas (Acts 9:36), the emblem of beauty. The Christian woman at Joppa, "full of good works and alms deeds" (as making coats and garments for poor widows,”
(from Fausset's Bible Dictionary, Electronic Database Copyright (c)1998, 2003 by Biblesoft)
It is a reminder of the later command of Peter, in 1 Peter 3:3-4
And let not your adornment be merely external — braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; 4 but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God. NASB
Tabitha's beauty is in her service to others.
37 And it happened at that time that she fell sick and died; and when they had washed her body, they laid it in an upper room.
Her sickness and death occasions the sending of people to Peter, presuming he might do something for her.
38 Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, having heard that Peter was there, sent two men to him, imploring him, "Do not delay in coming to us." 39 So Peter arose and went with them.
The people at Joppa must have believed that Peter could do something for Tabitha since they implored him to come with such urgency. Peter likewise responds to their urgency by going with them. We as well should respond to requests with similar urgency. We should give all we can and if we seem to be unable to help, turn to God in immediate and urgent prayer and turn to our gifts, talents, and connections with others to seek help where it may be given.
When he arrived, they brought him into the upper room; and all the widows stood beside him, weeping and showing all the tunics and garments that Dorcas used to make while she was with them.
Dorcas' (Tabitha's) character is shown by the love that the believers showed to her, that they spoke to Peter of all she had been doing. Their weeping was genuine as they mourned the loss to them of such a great woman of faith.
40 But Peter sent them all out and knelt down and prayed, and turning to the body, he said, " Tabitha, arise." And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter, she sat up. 41 And he gave her his hand and raised her up; and calling the saints and widows, he presented her alive.
This miracle was not public like others. Notice Peter sent them all away and turned to the Lord in Prayer. His response to do something was immediate. His action was not. He first sought the direction of the Lord. The request to make a difference for someone who was dead was perhaps overwhelming to Peter. Claiming no power of his own and without making any claims as to what he would do, he retreats from them for private prayer. Then as he was assuredly directed or freed by the Spirit to do, he spoke to the lifeless body as though she were alive telling her to get up. In God's almighty power, a demonstration that life and death belong in the realm of God's power, she returns to life. She is then presented alive to those who had sought Peter.
42 It became known all over Joppa, and many believed in the Lord.
The word spread that Tabitha had been healed and this led to others in the city coming to faith in Jesus Christ. It is significant that it led to faith in the Lord and not in Peter. The word had not only speread concerning her resurrection, but also that the miracle had been done in Jesus Name; thus it led to faith in Him. Faith is receiving Jesus Christ as Lord after hearing the word concerning Him. We likewise should trust all the more in Him whenever we hear the Word accurately proclaimed about him.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Stunned Silence
I have little to say this morning. God remains Good. While God has the power to answer our prayer, God also will give the people what they demand. May God empower the Church to boldly declare His Kingdom and His righteousness. May we lift the Name of Jesus High.
In Christ and as always on the Shepherd's Path,
Mark
In Christ and as always on the Shepherd's Path,
Mark
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Acts 9: 19-31
Acts 9:19-31
Now for several days he was with the disciples who were at Damascus, 20 and immediately he began to proclaim Jesus in the synagogues, saying, "He is the Son of God." 21 All those hearing him continued to be amazed, and were saying, "Is this not he who in Jerusalem destroyed those who called on this name, and who had come here for the purpose of bringing them bound before the chief priests?" 22 But Saul kept increasing in strength and confounding the Jews who lived at Damascus by proving that this Jesus is the Christ.
23 When many days had elapsed, the Jews plotted together to do away with him, 24 but their plot became known to Saul. They were also watching the gates day and night so that they might put him to death; 25 but his disciples took him by night and let him down through an opening in the wall, lowering him in a large basket.
26 When he came to Jerusalem, he was trying to associate with the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took hold of him and brought him to the apostles and described to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that He had talked to him, and how at Damascus he had spoken out boldly in the name of Jesus. 28 And he was with them, moving about freely in Jerusalem, speaking out boldly in the name of the Lord. 29 And he was talking and arguing with the Hellenistic Jews; but they were attempting to put him to death. 30 But when the brethren learned of it, they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him away to Tarsus.
31 So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.
NASU
Acts 9:19-31 Exposition
Now for several days he was with the disciples who were at Damascus,
Saul, after his conversion remains with the disciples in the city of Damascus. He finds fellowship with the very people he was sent to arrest and accepted by those he had opposed.
20 and immediately he began to proclaim Jesus in the synagogues, saying, "He is the Son of God."
Saul states about immediately sharing the good news that he has now embraced. The core of His message is that Jesus is the Son of God. What would have been anathema to him before is the heart of his message, so transformed by the Spirit is his heart toward Jesus. He goes immediately to his own people to persuade them of what he has come to know.
21 All those hearing him continued to be amazed, and were saying, "Is this not he who in Jerusalem destroyed those who called on this name, and who had come here for the purpose of bringing them bound before the chief priests?"
His transformation astounds them as they see that he is the very one who so hated the name of Jesus and is now boldly proclaiming Him Conversion is seen when we who previously were either indifferent or hostile to Jesus are empowered to joyfully proclaim Him Lord and speak his name with adoration.
22 But Saul kept increasing in strength and confounding the Jews who lived at Damascus by proving that this Jesus is the Christ.
The contrast grows as Saul grows in importance as one who teaches others as the the truth of Jesus Christ, “confounding” his fellow Jews with his teaching. His “proving” of Jesus is a word associated with teaching, showing and has the sense of bringing two things together, thus demonstrating the convincing and true argument to the Jews that Jesus was and is their Messiah.
23 When many days had elapsed, the Jews plotted together to do away with him,
Like Jesus who was also rejected, and those who Saul persecuted before, Saul Himself finds himself the target of their rejection and plots of murder. There seems to be no answer by those who reject Christ that does not ultimately seek to fully silence the proclamation of Jesus' name. Death seems to be the chosen and convenient means the lost world chooses most frequently.
24 but their plot became known to Saul. They were also watching the gates day and night so that they might put him to death;
As it was not in God's plan for Saul to die yet, he came to know of their plans.
25 but his disciples took him by night and let him down through an opening in the wall, lowering him in a large basket.
Saul again receives help by the hands of the church who protects him and sneaks him away.
26 When he came to Jerusalem, he was trying to associate with the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he was a disciple.
Saul's new reputation did not precede him to Jerusalem. He was still believed there to be Saul the great persecutor and they feared what he might be looking to do.
27 But Barnabas took hold of him and brought him to the apostles and described to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that He had talked to him, and how at Damascus he had spoken out boldly in the name of Jesus.
Barnabas' name means “Son of Encouragement” Perhaps a nickname unless just an extremely appropriate given name. He does in face receive Saul when others feared to do so. Barnabas takes him to the Apostles that his testimony of his conversion might be tested and perhaps he may be examined so as to be approved genuine by the Apostles . How necessary is a Christian brother or sister to the new believer who needs a recommendation to the church that they in their newness might be accepted and able to enjoy the nurture and fellowship of the church.
28 And he was with them, moving about freely in Jerusalem, speaking out boldly in the name of the Lord.
His place with the Apostles gave him the freedom, for a while, to speak in Jerusalem and proclaim the Name of Jesus there.
29 And he was talking and arguing with the Hellenistic Jews; but they were attempting to put him to death.
He set out to debate with the Hellenists, Jews who had adopted many gentile ways and accommodated much of the Greek and Roman culture. Yet even among these “Liberals” of their day he found no acceptance, and even more plots of murder. It shows that among those who oppose Christ, even the most tolerant and accommodating will not tolerate or accommodate Jesus as Lord or those who proclaim Him.
30 But when the brethren learned of it, they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him away to Tarsus.
Again Saul is protected by the church and spirited away by them. His value and calling must have been evident to them, even if simply as a brother in Christ, for them to work together for his protection.
31 So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.
For whatever reason God permitted that the Church would enjoy a time of freedom from persecution. Yet in this time and not as in our present day, this freedom was employed in the best way, to grow and strengthen the church. Today it is the church under persecution that is growing and the church at ease that is in decline. May we choose to use what freedom we have, while we have it to also grow and strengthen Christ's Church. Perhaps it was the recent nearness of persecution that inspired them to remain dilligent.
Now for several days he was with the disciples who were at Damascus, 20 and immediately he began to proclaim Jesus in the synagogues, saying, "He is the Son of God." 21 All those hearing him continued to be amazed, and were saying, "Is this not he who in Jerusalem destroyed those who called on this name, and who had come here for the purpose of bringing them bound before the chief priests?" 22 But Saul kept increasing in strength and confounding the Jews who lived at Damascus by proving that this Jesus is the Christ.
23 When many days had elapsed, the Jews plotted together to do away with him, 24 but their plot became known to Saul. They were also watching the gates day and night so that they might put him to death; 25 but his disciples took him by night and let him down through an opening in the wall, lowering him in a large basket.
26 When he came to Jerusalem, he was trying to associate with the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took hold of him and brought him to the apostles and described to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that He had talked to him, and how at Damascus he had spoken out boldly in the name of Jesus. 28 And he was with them, moving about freely in Jerusalem, speaking out boldly in the name of the Lord. 29 And he was talking and arguing with the Hellenistic Jews; but they were attempting to put him to death. 30 But when the brethren learned of it, they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him away to Tarsus.
31 So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.
NASU
Acts 9:19-31 Exposition
Now for several days he was with the disciples who were at Damascus,
Saul, after his conversion remains with the disciples in the city of Damascus. He finds fellowship with the very people he was sent to arrest and accepted by those he had opposed.
20 and immediately he began to proclaim Jesus in the synagogues, saying, "He is the Son of God."
Saul states about immediately sharing the good news that he has now embraced. The core of His message is that Jesus is the Son of God. What would have been anathema to him before is the heart of his message, so transformed by the Spirit is his heart toward Jesus. He goes immediately to his own people to persuade them of what he has come to know.
21 All those hearing him continued to be amazed, and were saying, "Is this not he who in Jerusalem destroyed those who called on this name, and who had come here for the purpose of bringing them bound before the chief priests?"
His transformation astounds them as they see that he is the very one who so hated the name of Jesus and is now boldly proclaiming Him Conversion is seen when we who previously were either indifferent or hostile to Jesus are empowered to joyfully proclaim Him Lord and speak his name with adoration.
22 But Saul kept increasing in strength and confounding the Jews who lived at Damascus by proving that this Jesus is the Christ.
The contrast grows as Saul grows in importance as one who teaches others as the the truth of Jesus Christ, “confounding” his fellow Jews with his teaching. His “proving” of Jesus is a word associated with teaching, showing and has the sense of bringing two things together, thus demonstrating the convincing and true argument to the Jews that Jesus was and is their Messiah.
23 When many days had elapsed, the Jews plotted together to do away with him,
Like Jesus who was also rejected, and those who Saul persecuted before, Saul Himself finds himself the target of their rejection and plots of murder. There seems to be no answer by those who reject Christ that does not ultimately seek to fully silence the proclamation of Jesus' name. Death seems to be the chosen and convenient means the lost world chooses most frequently.
24 but their plot became known to Saul. They were also watching the gates day and night so that they might put him to death;
As it was not in God's plan for Saul to die yet, he came to know of their plans.
25 but his disciples took him by night and let him down through an opening in the wall, lowering him in a large basket.
Saul again receives help by the hands of the church who protects him and sneaks him away.
26 When he came to Jerusalem, he was trying to associate with the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he was a disciple.
Saul's new reputation did not precede him to Jerusalem. He was still believed there to be Saul the great persecutor and they feared what he might be looking to do.
27 But Barnabas took hold of him and brought him to the apostles and described to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that He had talked to him, and how at Damascus he had spoken out boldly in the name of Jesus.
Barnabas' name means “Son of Encouragement” Perhaps a nickname unless just an extremely appropriate given name. He does in face receive Saul when others feared to do so. Barnabas takes him to the Apostles that his testimony of his conversion might be tested and perhaps he may be examined so as to be approved genuine by the Apostles . How necessary is a Christian brother or sister to the new believer who needs a recommendation to the church that they in their newness might be accepted and able to enjoy the nurture and fellowship of the church.
28 And he was with them, moving about freely in Jerusalem, speaking out boldly in the name of the Lord.
His place with the Apostles gave him the freedom, for a while, to speak in Jerusalem and proclaim the Name of Jesus there.
29 And he was talking and arguing with the Hellenistic Jews; but they were attempting to put him to death.
He set out to debate with the Hellenists, Jews who had adopted many gentile ways and accommodated much of the Greek and Roman culture. Yet even among these “Liberals” of their day he found no acceptance, and even more plots of murder. It shows that among those who oppose Christ, even the most tolerant and accommodating will not tolerate or accommodate Jesus as Lord or those who proclaim Him.
30 But when the brethren learned of it, they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him away to Tarsus.
Again Saul is protected by the church and spirited away by them. His value and calling must have been evident to them, even if simply as a brother in Christ, for them to work together for his protection.
31 So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace, being built up; and going on in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it continued to increase.
For whatever reason God permitted that the Church would enjoy a time of freedom from persecution. Yet in this time and not as in our present day, this freedom was employed in the best way, to grow and strengthen the church. Today it is the church under persecution that is growing and the church at ease that is in decline. May we choose to use what freedom we have, while we have it to also grow and strengthen Christ's Church. Perhaps it was the recent nearness of persecution that inspired them to remain dilligent.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Of Senators and Saints...
There are two issues that are on my mind as we begin the month of November. I was planning on writing on the election exclusively this month, but I figure I spent enough time on that topic for the last two weeks in worship. The bottom line summary. Look up Romans 13. Government is to restrain and punish evil and promote good. Vote for the candidate who you believe, after praying about it, will do the best job of this Biblical purpose for human government. Consider how their policies, and any influence they may have in the choice of judges who will interpret our constitution, will fulfill this task. Set aside issues of race, sex, cost of their clothing, net worth, celebrity status, or what you heard in an email. Instead pray and think, who will work hard every day to resist evil and promote what is good.
Yet the talk of “celebrity” on both sides of the presidential debate reminds me of another topic in the late October air: Halloween. Now if you're expecting an article telling you how Satan will steal your soul if you trick-or-treat you'll be disappointed (or not.) Instead I am reminded by an article I read this morning at WORD FM's website that Halloween is for all our purposes as Christians, Hallows, that is Saints', Eve. (see http://www.wordfm.com/parenting/11583351/page1/ for the article) The writer, who is not Roman Catholic, to my knowledge, reminds us that Halloween was for the Church, the eve of a feast day to celebrate all the Saints.
And who were the Saints. The were people like you and me who after being “vetted” through extensive investigation by the Church, were determined to have exemplified some virtue of Christlike living as to warrant the status of Christian Celebrity. Unlike today's Christian Celebrities who only need a bestseller, a hit song, or a TV Ministry. These folks withstood the test of both the church's scrutiny and the test of history to be granted the status of Saint. While we Presbyterians don't pray to, of “through” the Saints because we do not believe, with Christ as our mediator, we need their virtues to mediate or “supercharge” our prayers; and we don't decorate our churches, yards, or homes with their images; we would do well to know who they are and look at their examples.
They were not perfect. They may only be a Saint for one thing that they got right. We might even debate if they got it right. I am reminded of the Saint I read about in college who threw herself from the roof of her house, dying to preserve her virginity in the face of marauding soldiers. Some of them, history has questioned whether or not they exist, yet the virtue of their legend still points to a higher good and so they are preserved in the catalog of Sainted Celebrities for what they may have represented. The point is we can look at their lives and see how ordinary Christians chose to live in their time so we might consider how to live in ours.
So before you get caught up in the hype of politics and celebrity. Take time this All Saints Eve, and consider the lives of Saints ,whether the capital S ones or the lowercase ones of your own family and friends, now gone on to join the Church Triumphant ( a neat name for heaven from our dusty theology books). Consider how our lives may better reflect Jesus Christ who they sought to follow when we look to their examples. Have a Blessed All Saints Day.
In Christ and on the Shepherd's Path,
Mark
Yet the talk of “celebrity” on both sides of the presidential debate reminds me of another topic in the late October air: Halloween. Now if you're expecting an article telling you how Satan will steal your soul if you trick-or-treat you'll be disappointed (or not.) Instead I am reminded by an article I read this morning at WORD FM's website that Halloween is for all our purposes as Christians, Hallows, that is Saints', Eve. (see http://www.wordfm.com/parenting/11583351/page1/ for the article) The writer, who is not Roman Catholic, to my knowledge, reminds us that Halloween was for the Church, the eve of a feast day to celebrate all the Saints.
And who were the Saints. The were people like you and me who after being “vetted” through extensive investigation by the Church, were determined to have exemplified some virtue of Christlike living as to warrant the status of Christian Celebrity. Unlike today's Christian Celebrities who only need a bestseller, a hit song, or a TV Ministry. These folks withstood the test of both the church's scrutiny and the test of history to be granted the status of Saint. While we Presbyterians don't pray to, of “through” the Saints because we do not believe, with Christ as our mediator, we need their virtues to mediate or “supercharge” our prayers; and we don't decorate our churches, yards, or homes with their images; we would do well to know who they are and look at their examples.
They were not perfect. They may only be a Saint for one thing that they got right. We might even debate if they got it right. I am reminded of the Saint I read about in college who threw herself from the roof of her house, dying to preserve her virginity in the face of marauding soldiers. Some of them, history has questioned whether or not they exist, yet the virtue of their legend still points to a higher good and so they are preserved in the catalog of Sainted Celebrities for what they may have represented. The point is we can look at their lives and see how ordinary Christians chose to live in their time so we might consider how to live in ours.
So before you get caught up in the hype of politics and celebrity. Take time this All Saints Eve, and consider the lives of Saints ,whether the capital S ones or the lowercase ones of your own family and friends, now gone on to join the Church Triumphant ( a neat name for heaven from our dusty theology books). Consider how our lives may better reflect Jesus Christ who they sought to follow when we look to their examples. Have a Blessed All Saints Day.
In Christ and on the Shepherd's Path,
Mark
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Faith in an Election Year Part 2
Part 2 What to Do if Your Candidate Loses ... Or Wins.
8 Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law.
After we are told to give to those to whom anything is due, we are encouraged to have no debts, other than the ongoing practice of loving one another as though it was debt continually to be paid. This is not to say that our love is to be grudging as we might view a debt as having to be paid out of a finite resource. Instead we are to pay our love to one another as we would an important debt; faithfully and regularly. To love in this way does not break the law but fulfills it. To remain faithful to our Christian calling we are instructed is our duty at all times. There is no excuse that should keep us from being faithful to God.
9 For this, "YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY, YOU SHALL NOT MURDER, YOU SHALL NOT STEAL, YOU SHALL NOT COVET," and if there is any other commandment, it is summed up in this saying, "YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF."
Indeed the law is simplified in this command to love, for if we love we will not pursue the wife or husband of another or live in any way that is unfaithful to God's ordering of marriage. We will not murder. We will not take what doesn't belong to us. We will not Desire what belongs to others or be jealous of what they have or seek to deprive them of it.
10 Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.
To do no wrong to our neighbor certainly restrains us from evil and keeps us on the right side of God's law if not the law of the land.
11 Do this, knowing the time, that it is already the hour for you to awaken from sleep; for now salvation is nearer to us than when we believed.
We are to remain faithful to our calling knowing especially that we do not know the hour of Christ's return. Certainly it is no further away than in days past and since Christ has accomplished all he promised except for His return, we must be always ready. We cannot drowsily go about our business as though God is absent or unaware or that we will have ample time for repentance should we die or should Christ return.
12 The night is almost gone, and the day is near. Therefore let us lay aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.
Often people have used the seeming cover of night for evil deeds or for sensual living pursuing pleasures of their own desires rather than goodness during those hours where they may not be readily observed. Indeed we more often hide our sins even while we are doing them willfully. Yet even as darkness has past in Christ and we are being led out of sin and darkness we should pursue a life that more resembles the life of Christ who is our light. We are even given the image of “putting on” light like one would put on armor. Armor is put on purposefully and is not natural to the body. Likewise a holy life is not natural to us but is put on in Christ. Likewise we willingly “lay aside” evil deeds, putting them off and refusing them like soiled garments not to be worn while dirty.
13 Let us behave properly as in the day, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual promiscuity and sensuality, not in strife and jealousy.
Regardless of the teaching of this world we must look to Gods word and live as those who know the difference between right and wrong, good and evil. While some things and even some of what the world calls pleasures may be legal under the civil law we must never call what God calls good evil or evil good. As powerful and entangling as our sexuality can be we are to give special attention to keeping that area of life pure. Likewise we cannot allow divisions between people and jealousy for possessions lead us to do what is evil.
14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh in regard to its lusts.
It is this line that both calls us to strive to live like Christ, as well as affording us no excuse even should the world lead us to do otherwise. Should our leaders approve the murder of the helpless, abandonment of living infants on hospital floors because they were unwanted; should they approve corruption and the abuse of those who work for them; should they abuse the advantages of power for personal gain; should they freely call what Scripture calls good evil, and evil good; Should they place in power those who do not preserve freedom and law, failing to reward good and punish and restrain evil; Should they do any of these things; We must not. We must seek to put on Christ. We must not allow for ourselves to live in any other way that the way of the Spirit. This is what it means to make no provision for the lusts of the flesh. We cannot place our Christian life in one compartment and pursue greed, lust, hatred or any other evil in another quarter. Pray for wisdom. Vote for those who you believe will restrain evil and promote good. Pray for those who gain power that they will faithfully do as God has elevated them to do. And live yourselves as Christians even if the rest of the world should choose Hell's path.
In Christ and on the Shepherd's Path,
Mark
8 Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law.
After we are told to give to those to whom anything is due, we are encouraged to have no debts, other than the ongoing practice of loving one another as though it was debt continually to be paid. This is not to say that our love is to be grudging as we might view a debt as having to be paid out of a finite resource. Instead we are to pay our love to one another as we would an important debt; faithfully and regularly. To love in this way does not break the law but fulfills it. To remain faithful to our Christian calling we are instructed is our duty at all times. There is no excuse that should keep us from being faithful to God.
9 For this, "YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY, YOU SHALL NOT MURDER, YOU SHALL NOT STEAL, YOU SHALL NOT COVET," and if there is any other commandment, it is summed up in this saying, "YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF."
Indeed the law is simplified in this command to love, for if we love we will not pursue the wife or husband of another or live in any way that is unfaithful to God's ordering of marriage. We will not murder. We will not take what doesn't belong to us. We will not Desire what belongs to others or be jealous of what they have or seek to deprive them of it.
10 Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.
To do no wrong to our neighbor certainly restrains us from evil and keeps us on the right side of God's law if not the law of the land.
11 Do this, knowing the time, that it is already the hour for you to awaken from sleep; for now salvation is nearer to us than when we believed.
We are to remain faithful to our calling knowing especially that we do not know the hour of Christ's return. Certainly it is no further away than in days past and since Christ has accomplished all he promised except for His return, we must be always ready. We cannot drowsily go about our business as though God is absent or unaware or that we will have ample time for repentance should we die or should Christ return.
12 The night is almost gone, and the day is near. Therefore let us lay aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.
Often people have used the seeming cover of night for evil deeds or for sensual living pursuing pleasures of their own desires rather than goodness during those hours where they may not be readily observed. Indeed we more often hide our sins even while we are doing them willfully. Yet even as darkness has past in Christ and we are being led out of sin and darkness we should pursue a life that more resembles the life of Christ who is our light. We are even given the image of “putting on” light like one would put on armor. Armor is put on purposefully and is not natural to the body. Likewise a holy life is not natural to us but is put on in Christ. Likewise we willingly “lay aside” evil deeds, putting them off and refusing them like soiled garments not to be worn while dirty.
13 Let us behave properly as in the day, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual promiscuity and sensuality, not in strife and jealousy.
Regardless of the teaching of this world we must look to Gods word and live as those who know the difference between right and wrong, good and evil. While some things and even some of what the world calls pleasures may be legal under the civil law we must never call what God calls good evil or evil good. As powerful and entangling as our sexuality can be we are to give special attention to keeping that area of life pure. Likewise we cannot allow divisions between people and jealousy for possessions lead us to do what is evil.
14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh in regard to its lusts.
It is this line that both calls us to strive to live like Christ, as well as affording us no excuse even should the world lead us to do otherwise. Should our leaders approve the murder of the helpless, abandonment of living infants on hospital floors because they were unwanted; should they approve corruption and the abuse of those who work for them; should they abuse the advantages of power for personal gain; should they freely call what Scripture calls good evil, and evil good; Should they place in power those who do not preserve freedom and law, failing to reward good and punish and restrain evil; Should they do any of these things; We must not. We must seek to put on Christ. We must not allow for ourselves to live in any other way that the way of the Spirit. This is what it means to make no provision for the lusts of the flesh. We cannot place our Christian life in one compartment and pursue greed, lust, hatred or any other evil in another quarter. Pray for wisdom. Vote for those who you believe will restrain evil and promote good. Pray for those who gain power that they will faithfully do as God has elevated them to do. And live yourselves as Christians even if the rest of the world should choose Hell's path.
In Christ and on the Shepherd's Path,
Mark
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Why there are not many Paths.
Had a great question this week regarding Matthew 21:28-32.
"But what do you think? A man had two sons, and he came to the first and said, ' Son, go work today in the vineyard.' 29 "And he answered, 'I will not'; but afterward he regretted it and went. 30 "The man came to the second and said the same thing; and he answered, 'I will, sir'; but he did not go. 31 "Which of the two did the will of his father?" They said, "The first." Jesus said to them, "Truly I say to you that the tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the kingdom of God before you. 32 "For John came to you in the way of righteousness and you did not believe him; but the tax collectors and prostitutes did believe him; and you, seeing this, did not even feel remorse afterward so as to believe him.
NASU
Jesus was contrasting the very religious Pharisees who were opposing Him and the Tax Collectors and Prostitutes who were following Him. The Pharisees were like the ones who said yes but did not do what was asked. The sinners who followed Jesus had previously said "No" but were repenting and now saying "Yes". The son who does right is tho one who does the will of the Father. Better still of course would be to say yes and to do what you say, but No one has the benefit of never having sinned. So we all are called to repent and begin to follow Jesus and do the will of our Father in Heaven. Remember too that Jesus was talking about their rejection of Him. The will of God for us is first that we should believe in His Son. The Pharisees claimed to obey God but rejected His Son.
In our world we are encouraged to believe in God but accept that there may be many paths to God which may or may not include Jesus. We are told that we can believe in God yet are give the option to accept or reject Jesus as the Son of God. I ask you, should we believe that God accepts our worship and our faith when we reject the very gift He gave of His son? Is it God's will for us to trust in His Son, to repent of our inability to please God on our own, and to trust in Jesus as the way He made for us to be put back into his will and obedience? Or is Jesus Wrong and are we permitted to say "Yes" while going our own way?
In Christ,
Mark
"But what do you think? A man had two sons, and he came to the first and said, ' Son, go work today in the vineyard.' 29 "And he answered, 'I will not'; but afterward he regretted it and went. 30 "The man came to the second and said the same thing; and he answered, 'I will, sir'; but he did not go. 31 "Which of the two did the will of his father?" They said, "The first." Jesus said to them, "Truly I say to you that the tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the kingdom of God before you. 32 "For John came to you in the way of righteousness and you did not believe him; but the tax collectors and prostitutes did believe him; and you, seeing this, did not even feel remorse afterward so as to believe him.
NASU
Jesus was contrasting the very religious Pharisees who were opposing Him and the Tax Collectors and Prostitutes who were following Him. The Pharisees were like the ones who said yes but did not do what was asked. The sinners who followed Jesus had previously said "No" but were repenting and now saying "Yes". The son who does right is tho one who does the will of the Father. Better still of course would be to say yes and to do what you say, but No one has the benefit of never having sinned. So we all are called to repent and begin to follow Jesus and do the will of our Father in Heaven. Remember too that Jesus was talking about their rejection of Him. The will of God for us is first that we should believe in His Son. The Pharisees claimed to obey God but rejected His Son.
In our world we are encouraged to believe in God but accept that there may be many paths to God which may or may not include Jesus. We are told that we can believe in God yet are give the option to accept or reject Jesus as the Son of God. I ask you, should we believe that God accepts our worship and our faith when we reject the very gift He gave of His son? Is it God's will for us to trust in His Son, to repent of our inability to please God on our own, and to trust in Jesus as the way He made for us to be put back into his will and obedience? Or is Jesus Wrong and are we permitted to say "Yes" while going our own way?
In Christ,
Mark
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Faith in an Election Year Part 1
Romans 13 Exposition
Part 1
Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.
When we consider our duty in an election year we must first consider this truth. God has established human authority on earth. Beginning in Genesis with the establishment of man's “dominion” over the creation, God has afforded to humanity a degree of government and stewardship over the world. In a difficult time for Christians to follow the Authority of Caesar an the imperial government, Paul writes the Spirit's inspired instruction that the people of the church are to live in subjection to the civil governing authorities. While one can point to Daniel and even to the early Apostles for examples of how to obey God before the rules of men, here Paul is cautioning the church to avoid anarchy and the rejection of all civil authority. Our belief in no authority over Christ does not permit us to disobey lawful authority at will. Indeed by reminding us that “there is no authority except from God” Paul makes it clear that God still reigns as the highest authority and those who rule do so only at God's permission or pleasure. When he adds that “those which exist are established by God”, we are reminded that to reject human authorities is to reject what God has established either by his direction or by His permission.
2 Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves.
With the rejection of authority comes it's own punishment. When we refuse taxes there will be penalties. When we break traffic laws there will be fines. When we commit crimes there will be sentences. We are reminded that our rejection of authority is a rejection of something God has established.
3 For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; 4 for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil.
Why has God established human government. He reveals it here. Government has two biblical purposes to resist evil and to promote the good. Do evil and you will need to fear do good and you have reason to at least be free from fear of punishment and at best will be upheld. True there are times when this is not the case and when tyrants or those rulers who are simply incompetent end up punishing the good and promoting evil. In those cases we are also to trust that God will establish justice. Scripture here does not speak of the realities of all cases of human government but the intended purpose behind God's establishment of authorities. Where these purposes are abused it is a consequence of the sinful nature of humanity. That will be dealt with dually and according to God's will by either the transforming work of the Holy Spirit or by God's Judgment. Often it is even the use of human government from another or higher place which is used to correct abuses of power.
This is especially important to us in our form of government where we are given a certain, if limited, ability to effect change in our government. We have been granted the tools of voice through freedom of speech and of vote through regular elections. While we often feel limited in what we can actually accomplish we are given the ability to be a part of the authority of our government and work to do all we are able to resist evil and to promote good. We cannot neglect to do all we can to ensure that our elected leaders fulfill their God given responsibility to oppose evil and promote good. We will be accountable to God for what little we can do, they for the greater amount they have been given the power to accomplish.
5 Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience' sake.
We are told to be in subjection to authority both to avoid punishment but also to maintain a clear conscience. It is not just that we do not break those laws which we may likely be punished for breaking, but also we are to maintain a clear conscience by doing all that we do in a way that is legal and ethical. We are held to a higher standard as well, the standard of God's law, so that whatever is legal does not always equal what is right. In all things we are for conscience sake do that which is right before God.
6 For because of this you also pay taxes, for rulers are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing.
The subject of taxes is important because it highlights the purpose of governors as “Civil servants” whose labors deserve to be rewarded. Cynically we could say that they do not do all that their salaries deserve but Scripture here does not give us the authority to decide that for ourselves and to refuse to pay taxes. Recall the question brought to Jesus regarding taxes. Matt 22:17-22
17 "Tell us then, what do You think? Is it lawful to give a poll-tax to Caesar, or not?" 18 But Jesus perceived their malice, and said, "Why are you testing Me, you hypocrites? 19 "Show Me the coin used for the poll-tax." And they brought Him a denarius. 20 And He said to them, "Whose likeness and inscription is this?" 21 They said to Him, "Caesar's." Then He said to them, " Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's; and to God the things that are God's."
NASU
The question was given as to the righteousness of paying taxes to a repressive and pagan regime. Jesus upheld the practice saying “render to Caesar the things which are Caesar's and to God the things which are God's.”
7 Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor.
We are to give what is due to the one to whom it is due. I would encourage any Christian that it is his or her duty to pray for leaders. Knowing that a leader is given the holy task of resisting evil and promoting good it is essential that we should ask for the help of almighty God for them to do just that. Even for those who would not ask such help for themselves it is all the more important that we seek the Spirit's direction for those who would otherwise resist it. It is after all the Spirit's intervention for us that calls us to faith and to obedience while we were still sinners and seeking our own will alone.
In Christ and on the Shepherd's Path,
Mark
Part 1
Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.
When we consider our duty in an election year we must first consider this truth. God has established human authority on earth. Beginning in Genesis with the establishment of man's “dominion” over the creation, God has afforded to humanity a degree of government and stewardship over the world. In a difficult time for Christians to follow the Authority of Caesar an the imperial government, Paul writes the Spirit's inspired instruction that the people of the church are to live in subjection to the civil governing authorities. While one can point to Daniel and even to the early Apostles for examples of how to obey God before the rules of men, here Paul is cautioning the church to avoid anarchy and the rejection of all civil authority. Our belief in no authority over Christ does not permit us to disobey lawful authority at will. Indeed by reminding us that “there is no authority except from God” Paul makes it clear that God still reigns as the highest authority and those who rule do so only at God's permission or pleasure. When he adds that “those which exist are established by God”, we are reminded that to reject human authorities is to reject what God has established either by his direction or by His permission.
2 Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves.
With the rejection of authority comes it's own punishment. When we refuse taxes there will be penalties. When we break traffic laws there will be fines. When we commit crimes there will be sentences. We are reminded that our rejection of authority is a rejection of something God has established.
3 For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; 4 for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil.
Why has God established human government. He reveals it here. Government has two biblical purposes to resist evil and to promote the good. Do evil and you will need to fear do good and you have reason to at least be free from fear of punishment and at best will be upheld. True there are times when this is not the case and when tyrants or those rulers who are simply incompetent end up punishing the good and promoting evil. In those cases we are also to trust that God will establish justice. Scripture here does not speak of the realities of all cases of human government but the intended purpose behind God's establishment of authorities. Where these purposes are abused it is a consequence of the sinful nature of humanity. That will be dealt with dually and according to God's will by either the transforming work of the Holy Spirit or by God's Judgment. Often it is even the use of human government from another or higher place which is used to correct abuses of power.
This is especially important to us in our form of government where we are given a certain, if limited, ability to effect change in our government. We have been granted the tools of voice through freedom of speech and of vote through regular elections. While we often feel limited in what we can actually accomplish we are given the ability to be a part of the authority of our government and work to do all we are able to resist evil and to promote good. We cannot neglect to do all we can to ensure that our elected leaders fulfill their God given responsibility to oppose evil and promote good. We will be accountable to God for what little we can do, they for the greater amount they have been given the power to accomplish.
5 Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience' sake.
We are told to be in subjection to authority both to avoid punishment but also to maintain a clear conscience. It is not just that we do not break those laws which we may likely be punished for breaking, but also we are to maintain a clear conscience by doing all that we do in a way that is legal and ethical. We are held to a higher standard as well, the standard of God's law, so that whatever is legal does not always equal what is right. In all things we are for conscience sake do that which is right before God.
6 For because of this you also pay taxes, for rulers are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing.
The subject of taxes is important because it highlights the purpose of governors as “Civil servants” whose labors deserve to be rewarded. Cynically we could say that they do not do all that their salaries deserve but Scripture here does not give us the authority to decide that for ourselves and to refuse to pay taxes. Recall the question brought to Jesus regarding taxes. Matt 22:17-22
17 "Tell us then, what do You think? Is it lawful to give a poll-tax to Caesar, or not?" 18 But Jesus perceived their malice, and said, "Why are you testing Me, you hypocrites? 19 "Show Me the coin used for the poll-tax." And they brought Him a denarius. 20 And He said to them, "Whose likeness and inscription is this?" 21 They said to Him, "Caesar's." Then He said to them, " Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's; and to God the things that are God's."
NASU
The question was given as to the righteousness of paying taxes to a repressive and pagan regime. Jesus upheld the practice saying “render to Caesar the things which are Caesar's and to God the things which are God's.”
7 Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor.
We are to give what is due to the one to whom it is due. I would encourage any Christian that it is his or her duty to pray for leaders. Knowing that a leader is given the holy task of resisting evil and promoting good it is essential that we should ask for the help of almighty God for them to do just that. Even for those who would not ask such help for themselves it is all the more important that we seek the Spirit's direction for those who would otherwise resist it. It is after all the Spirit's intervention for us that calls us to faith and to obedience while we were still sinners and seeking our own will alone.
In Christ and on the Shepherd's Path,
Mark
Monday, September 29, 2008
Personal Honor
29:23 A man's pride will bring him low, but he who is lowly in spirit will obtain honor.
Proverbs 29:23 RSV
I saw this quote on today's Bible verse. Honor is a word we use in greater or lesser amount at different times and places. We go through seasons where it is not used at all. At other times it is used to the point of losing its meaning. In this election season we are hearing it again in a rising tide. Yet I am drawn to the question, What is Honor? Yesterday I was teaching the LeaDRSHIP section (an Acronym not a typo) section of the ROCK's volunteer training. One of the bullet points under H - Honor, was that a leader uses Honor as a motivation for moral action. The best way I could explain this was to say a person of honor does the right thing because it is the right thing and for no other reason.
Another definition of honor is the one used here of honor being given to a person. A Champion is honored with a prize. A writer is honored with an award. Some people live life seeking honor. Their pride drives them to seek those recognitions which will lift their own name a little higher than others. Yet this proverb tells us that a man of lowly spirit, humble spirit, will obtain honor. You may not see it in this life. Yet it has been my experience that the most honorable people I have ever met are the ones who you would never know of their accomplishments. They talk little of them.
The third definition of Honor that I am familiar with is the one I lived under at VMI and still try to live today. Our Honor Code was: "A Cadet does not lie, cheat, steal, or tolerate those who do." Simple. One sentence. Yet profound and challenging to uphold. When a cadet broke faith with the Honor Code he was given its one penalty. Dismissal. He was no longer a cadet. When his dismissal was announced at the 3 AM drum-out ceremony these words were spoken, "He has placed personal gain above personal honor."
This speaks to the Proverb as well. When a person places a higher priority on what he or she may personally gain, over what is right, that person has sacrificed his or her honor.
How do you, your friends, your candidates, those you lead, and those you follow, stack up in the area of personal honor? Will you receive your honor from God as a humble person, or will you seek your honors now at the expense of future honor that matters?
In Christ and on the Shepherd's Path,
Mark
Proverbs 29:23 RSV
I saw this quote on today's Bible verse. Honor is a word we use in greater or lesser amount at different times and places. We go through seasons where it is not used at all. At other times it is used to the point of losing its meaning. In this election season we are hearing it again in a rising tide. Yet I am drawn to the question, What is Honor? Yesterday I was teaching the LeaDRSHIP section (an Acronym not a typo) section of the ROCK's volunteer training. One of the bullet points under H - Honor, was that a leader uses Honor as a motivation for moral action. The best way I could explain this was to say a person of honor does the right thing because it is the right thing and for no other reason.
Another definition of honor is the one used here of honor being given to a person. A Champion is honored with a prize. A writer is honored with an award. Some people live life seeking honor. Their pride drives them to seek those recognitions which will lift their own name a little higher than others. Yet this proverb tells us that a man of lowly spirit, humble spirit, will obtain honor. You may not see it in this life. Yet it has been my experience that the most honorable people I have ever met are the ones who you would never know of their accomplishments. They talk little of them.
The third definition of Honor that I am familiar with is the one I lived under at VMI and still try to live today. Our Honor Code was: "A Cadet does not lie, cheat, steal, or tolerate those who do." Simple. One sentence. Yet profound and challenging to uphold. When a cadet broke faith with the Honor Code he was given its one penalty. Dismissal. He was no longer a cadet. When his dismissal was announced at the 3 AM drum-out ceremony these words were spoken, "He has placed personal gain above personal honor."
This speaks to the Proverb as well. When a person places a higher priority on what he or she may personally gain, over what is right, that person has sacrificed his or her honor.
How do you, your friends, your candidates, those you lead, and those you follow, stack up in the area of personal honor? Will you receive your honor from God as a humble person, or will you seek your honors now at the expense of future honor that matters?
In Christ and on the Shepherd's Path,
Mark
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Acts 9: 1-19 Part 2
Part 2: Called
10 Now there was a disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and the Lord said to him in a vision, "Ananias." And he said, "Here I am, Lord."
With Saul, God chose to first reveal himself and his will for him through a vision. Yet the ordinary means God uses to bring people to faith is through the preaching of the gospel through human beings. This does not have to be “preaching” in the sense of pulpit exposition of Scripture, but in the sense of proclamation of the gospel of Jesus in whatever setting public of private we have the opportunity. God calls Ananias to meet with the infamous Saul to complete Saul's conversion. Ananias responds as do many others in Scripture when called by God saying “here I am Lord.”
11 And the Lord said to him, "Get up and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying,
Saul was spending the time while blind and unable to go forward either with his plans (as he was now convicted that his persecution was a sin against Jesus as Lord.) or with his new calling as he did not yet know what it was, in fasting (verse 9) and prayer.
12 and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him, so that he might regain his sight."
The Lord continued to communicate with Saul by visions preparing him to meet with Ananias.
13 But Ananias answered, "Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he did to Your saints at Jerusalem;
As we tend to do when called, Ananias view this calling as beyond his ability, knowing Saul only as the persecutor of the Church and not as the man who God intended him to become.
14 and here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name."
The character of Saul is an obstacle to Ananias as well as fear or what Saul may do. The immediate threat of imprisonment causes him to hesitate.
15 But the Lord said to him, "Go, for he is a chosen instrument of Mine, to bear My name before the Gentiles and kings and the sons of Israel;
God is always aware of those obstacles but also has in mind the way they will be ( or have been already) overcome. The Lord seeks to calm Ananias' fears letting him know of His purpose for Saul.
16 for I will show him how much he must suffer for My name's sake."
Saul will surely join the Christians not only in calling and mission but also in suffering. The calling to follow Christ is never one with a guarantee of ease. Suffering is a necessary part of our calling and one which is governed, managed, and finally eased by the Lord.
17 So Ananias departed and entered the house, and after laying his hands on him said, " Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road by which you were coming, has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit."
One cannot claim that the New Testament claims Jesus to be other than God when these Jews refer to Him as Lord and indeed speak of visions as from God and ascribe them to Jesus Himself. Ananias does not say God appeared but “the Lord Jesus.” Ananias appears to Saul as the means by which Saul will regain his sight as well as complete His conversion, receiving the filling of the Holy Spirit. As it was the power of God that caused Saul to lose his sight, so it is the power of God through the laying on of Ananias' hands that Saul is restored and filled. Throughout the New Testament, believers are exhorted to be filled with the Holy Spirit. This is the ordinary state of believers, not as annointed prophets of old on whom the Spirit descended, but as those who are filled and continually filled with the Holy Spirit of God. For Saul to convert he must be likewise filled.
18 And immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he regained his sight, and he got up and was baptized;
Unsure of what these scales may be, we can only note that Saul's sight is restored and at the same moment he is assured that the spiritual blindness which led him to reject Jesus now was also gone. We are assured of this as he immediately sought baptism and identification with Christ.
19 and he took food and was strengthened.
The reason for his fast now completed he takes food. The virtue of this period of fasting and prayer was to temporarily seek what God would give both in healing and in direction. Saul was now healed and also had come to faith in Jesus and was publicly identified with him and with the believers he once persecuted through baptism. There are seasons for certain things like retreat and fasting and when those seasons are past there is no longer any virtue in them. We must instead move on to the next thing to which God has called us.
In Christ and on the Shepherd's Path,
Mark
10 Now there was a disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and the Lord said to him in a vision, "Ananias." And he said, "Here I am, Lord."
With Saul, God chose to first reveal himself and his will for him through a vision. Yet the ordinary means God uses to bring people to faith is through the preaching of the gospel through human beings. This does not have to be “preaching” in the sense of pulpit exposition of Scripture, but in the sense of proclamation of the gospel of Jesus in whatever setting public of private we have the opportunity. God calls Ananias to meet with the infamous Saul to complete Saul's conversion. Ananias responds as do many others in Scripture when called by God saying “here I am Lord.”
11 And the Lord said to him, "Get up and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying,
Saul was spending the time while blind and unable to go forward either with his plans (as he was now convicted that his persecution was a sin against Jesus as Lord.) or with his new calling as he did not yet know what it was, in fasting (verse 9) and prayer.
12 and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him, so that he might regain his sight."
The Lord continued to communicate with Saul by visions preparing him to meet with Ananias.
13 But Ananias answered, "Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he did to Your saints at Jerusalem;
As we tend to do when called, Ananias view this calling as beyond his ability, knowing Saul only as the persecutor of the Church and not as the man who God intended him to become.
14 and here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name."
The character of Saul is an obstacle to Ananias as well as fear or what Saul may do. The immediate threat of imprisonment causes him to hesitate.
15 But the Lord said to him, "Go, for he is a chosen instrument of Mine, to bear My name before the Gentiles and kings and the sons of Israel;
God is always aware of those obstacles but also has in mind the way they will be ( or have been already) overcome. The Lord seeks to calm Ananias' fears letting him know of His purpose for Saul.
16 for I will show him how much he must suffer for My name's sake."
Saul will surely join the Christians not only in calling and mission but also in suffering. The calling to follow Christ is never one with a guarantee of ease. Suffering is a necessary part of our calling and one which is governed, managed, and finally eased by the Lord.
17 So Ananias departed and entered the house, and after laying his hands on him said, " Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road by which you were coming, has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit."
One cannot claim that the New Testament claims Jesus to be other than God when these Jews refer to Him as Lord and indeed speak of visions as from God and ascribe them to Jesus Himself. Ananias does not say God appeared but “the Lord Jesus.” Ananias appears to Saul as the means by which Saul will regain his sight as well as complete His conversion, receiving the filling of the Holy Spirit. As it was the power of God that caused Saul to lose his sight, so it is the power of God through the laying on of Ananias' hands that Saul is restored and filled. Throughout the New Testament, believers are exhorted to be filled with the Holy Spirit. This is the ordinary state of believers, not as annointed prophets of old on whom the Spirit descended, but as those who are filled and continually filled with the Holy Spirit of God. For Saul to convert he must be likewise filled.
18 And immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he regained his sight, and he got up and was baptized;
Unsure of what these scales may be, we can only note that Saul's sight is restored and at the same moment he is assured that the spiritual blindness which led him to reject Jesus now was also gone. We are assured of this as he immediately sought baptism and identification with Christ.
19 and he took food and was strengthened.
The reason for his fast now completed he takes food. The virtue of this period of fasting and prayer was to temporarily seek what God would give both in healing and in direction. Saul was now healed and also had come to faith in Jesus and was publicly identified with him and with the believers he once persecuted through baptism. There are seasons for certain things like retreat and fasting and when those seasons are past there is no longer any virtue in them. We must instead move on to the next thing to which God has called us.
In Christ and on the Shepherd's Path,
Mark
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Why I like Branson Missouri...No wait, let me explain.
Last month I wrote about my apparent hatred of travel. Yet here I am preparing for yet another trip. Pray for us as we endeavor to travel over half the United States with my family all in one vehicle. We'll be visiting our old home in Phillipsburg, Kansas on the way to the Middle America Week Kirk (Small Church) conference, in Wagoner, Oklahoma (State Motto: “Just like the musical but without the singing”) We'll cap off the trip with a stop in Branson, Missouri. Because of this, I wanted to reprint this month a newsletter article I wrote for Christmas two years ago. True, I'm no longer 32, and have three kids now, but the minivan is still rolling. Hope you enjoy it, and that God uses the words to give you an even greater hope for heaven.
I called my folks the other day to tell them that we’d like to use the three days of vacation I have left to go on another trip with them after Christmas. I figured a family trip is a better way to spend our Christmas budget than on a bunch of stuff.
Last year they took us to Branson Missouri; Branson, home of nostalgic shows promising to take you back to the 50’s and 60’s (minus Korea, white and colored bathrooms, “duck and cover”, Vietnam, the Bay of Pigs, and race riots); home of Yakov’s giant 25 foot head on every third billboard within a 90 mile radius; home of theaters owned or otherwise named after stars extending their fifteen or even twenty minutes of fame into a profitable enterprise in a land of condos and timeshares; home of Ozark hillbilly parody culture that should prompt real hillbillies to file a class action suit for libel.
But I’m telling you why I like Branson. (Trust me I’ll get to something spiritual soon)
If I had any interest in being thought “cool” I wouldn’t even bring this up. But as a 32 year old ordained pastor, married with two kids, and driving a 1993 Minivan, I think the “cool” ship has sailed. In my case it ran aground and sank on its shakedown cruise in 6th grade (but that’s another article). Still, I’m no music snob, but much that Branson offers is dorky even for me.
No what I like about Branson is that reality is suspended. It’s like there’s a sign that invites you to “please switch off all portable electronic devices along with any brain function required for worry and critical thought.” I like to stop thinking for a while.
I also like that in this place of neon, knickknacks and $5 sodas with ice, there are real people there who bring a smile to my face. Not the folks you see headlining. Not the guys and girls with big hair, lacquered teeth, and names I’m sure somebody knows. I’m talking about the bass player standing just outside the spotlight doing his best and making a bit of a living doing something he loves. He might never get his own billboard and I suspect he may not even want one. Or there’s the guy at Cedar Creek who will sell you a dulcimer even though you didn’t know you’d ever want one, because he loves to show you in two minutes, that even the most musically inept person can play a tune. And he does it with such joy. There are the two ladies at the flavorless buffet who are just so excited to be there on vacation, and are happy to chat with you. There’s also the twenty something guy sleeping on the floor behind the hotel treadmill at 6 AM, who was very polite as he left so I could run.
And that gets to the essential, spiritual thing. The world God created had no trouble; one man fascinated by his God-given bride, Fellowship with God, unlimited trips to the garden buffet. The world we now know as reality did not exist, or if it did it was an unpopulated place outside of a garden sanctuary. But when sin entered through Adam’s choice to trust his way before God’s, a new reality set in; one with death and sickness and pain and separation from God.
No, Branson is not a new Eden, no matter what the brochures might tell you. (Remember the guy sleeping in the fitness room.) But, Branson reminds me of what it means to be redeemed. He gave us a promise of a redeemer who would crush the head of the serpent who deceived us, while having his own heel bruised. (Genesis 3:15) By dying for us and rising again, Jesus promises an eternal world redeemed, with all the good stuff shined up and made better and all the bad stuff removed, like nostalgia but better and real.
The folks that make me smile for their humanity, their humor, their passion, and their giving their best, remind me that God redeems us too. God is joyful with His redeemed because he knows what we will be. Real people, who trust and follow Jesus, including my family, and I, as quirky, funny, confused, determined, joyful, and even “uncool” as we are, can know we are people that God loves.
The redeemed are people who bring joy to God, not for who we are but just because He chooses to love us. Jesus is the redeemer of those who God loves. Choose to love someone who God loves.
In Christ and on the Shepherd’s Path,
Mark
I called my folks the other day to tell them that we’d like to use the three days of vacation I have left to go on another trip with them after Christmas. I figured a family trip is a better way to spend our Christmas budget than on a bunch of stuff.
Last year they took us to Branson Missouri; Branson, home of nostalgic shows promising to take you back to the 50’s and 60’s (minus Korea, white and colored bathrooms, “duck and cover”, Vietnam, the Bay of Pigs, and race riots); home of Yakov’s giant 25 foot head on every third billboard within a 90 mile radius; home of theaters owned or otherwise named after stars extending their fifteen or even twenty minutes of fame into a profitable enterprise in a land of condos and timeshares; home of Ozark hillbilly parody culture that should prompt real hillbillies to file a class action suit for libel.
But I’m telling you why I like Branson. (Trust me I’ll get to something spiritual soon)
If I had any interest in being thought “cool” I wouldn’t even bring this up. But as a 32 year old ordained pastor, married with two kids, and driving a 1993 Minivan, I think the “cool” ship has sailed. In my case it ran aground and sank on its shakedown cruise in 6th grade (but that’s another article). Still, I’m no music snob, but much that Branson offers is dorky even for me.
No what I like about Branson is that reality is suspended. It’s like there’s a sign that invites you to “please switch off all portable electronic devices along with any brain function required for worry and critical thought.” I like to stop thinking for a while.
I also like that in this place of neon, knickknacks and $5 sodas with ice, there are real people there who bring a smile to my face. Not the folks you see headlining. Not the guys and girls with big hair, lacquered teeth, and names I’m sure somebody knows. I’m talking about the bass player standing just outside the spotlight doing his best and making a bit of a living doing something he loves. He might never get his own billboard and I suspect he may not even want one. Or there’s the guy at Cedar Creek who will sell you a dulcimer even though you didn’t know you’d ever want one, because he loves to show you in two minutes, that even the most musically inept person can play a tune. And he does it with such joy. There are the two ladies at the flavorless buffet who are just so excited to be there on vacation, and are happy to chat with you. There’s also the twenty something guy sleeping on the floor behind the hotel treadmill at 6 AM, who was very polite as he left so I could run.
And that gets to the essential, spiritual thing. The world God created had no trouble; one man fascinated by his God-given bride, Fellowship with God, unlimited trips to the garden buffet. The world we now know as reality did not exist, or if it did it was an unpopulated place outside of a garden sanctuary. But when sin entered through Adam’s choice to trust his way before God’s, a new reality set in; one with death and sickness and pain and separation from God.
No, Branson is not a new Eden, no matter what the brochures might tell you. (Remember the guy sleeping in the fitness room.) But, Branson reminds me of what it means to be redeemed. He gave us a promise of a redeemer who would crush the head of the serpent who deceived us, while having his own heel bruised. (Genesis 3:15) By dying for us and rising again, Jesus promises an eternal world redeemed, with all the good stuff shined up and made better and all the bad stuff removed, like nostalgia but better and real.
The folks that make me smile for their humanity, their humor, their passion, and their giving their best, remind me that God redeems us too. God is joyful with His redeemed because he knows what we will be. Real people, who trust and follow Jesus, including my family, and I, as quirky, funny, confused, determined, joyful, and even “uncool” as we are, can know we are people that God loves.
The redeemed are people who bring joy to God, not for who we are but just because He chooses to love us. Jesus is the redeemer of those who God loves. Choose to love someone who God loves.
In Christ and on the Shepherd’s Path,
Mark
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Sept 21, 2008
Acts 9:1-19
Now Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest, 2 and asked for letters from him to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, both men and women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. 3 As he was traveling, it happened that he was approaching Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him; 4 and he fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?" 5 And he said, "Who are You, Lord?" And He said, "I am Jesus whom you are persecuting, 6 but get up and enter the city, and it will be told you what you must do." 7 The men who traveled with him stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one. 8 Saul got up from the ground, and though his eyes were open, he could see nothing; and leading him by the hand, they brought him into Damascus. 9 And he was three days without sight, and neither ate nor drank.
10 Now there was a disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and the Lord said to him in a vision, "Ananias." And he said, "Here I am, Lord." 11 And the Lord said to him, "Get up and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying, 12 and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him, so that he might regain his sight." 13 But Ananias answered, "Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he did to Your saints at Jerusalem; 14 and here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name." 15 But the Lord said to him, "Go, for he is a chosen instrument of Mine, to bear My name before the Gentiles and kings and the sons of Israel; 16 for I will show him how much he must suffer for My name's sake." 17 So Ananias departed and entered the house, and after laying his hands on him said, " Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road by which you were coming, has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit." 18 And immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he regained his sight, and he got up and was baptized; 19 and he took food and was strengthened.
NASU
Acts 9:1-19 Exposition
Part 1: Blinded to see
Now Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest,
Notice that it is not when we are perfect that we are then chosen by God. It is not even when we are in a state of Spiritual readiness or openness that God may choose to move on our hearts to convert us. One of the greatest errors and lies of the devil is this: when man says “I am not prepared to come to Jesus.” Of course you are not ready. We are not called to get our life together before coming to Jesus. We are not called to enter a meditative state of openness to God to invite the Holy Spirit to move. The truth is that there is nothing that we may do to be worthy of Christs Love or the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Rom 5:6-10 says this:
6 For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For one will hardly die for a righteous man; though perhaps for the good man someone would dare even to die. 8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us . 9 Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him. 10 For if while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. NASB
The beginning of the telling of Saul's conversion begins with Him still breathing “threats and murder” against the church. His heart is filled with all malice, certainly not prepared or open to the things of God.
2 and asked for letters from him to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, both men and women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.
Not only was he thinking and speaking evil, he was also in the act of planning how he might persecute the church in a greater way than he had, seeking legal permission to imprison the believers. He also was pursuing this legal right as one who believed, like those who granted him these same letters, that he was doing good. It is not our best intentions which save us, but often our works that we set out to do believing to do good, that are the very sins for which we will need to be forgiven. Good intentions and sincerity do not save us.
3 As he was traveling, it happened that he was approaching Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him;
Many people do have testimonies of great and supernatural encounters with God which led to their conversion. Yet this is not the normal means. Ordinarily the means of coming to faith is the preaching of the Word of God, leading to faith in that Word. At times this may be accompanied by some miraculous sign or vision which grabs the attention of the person. Yet it is the faith in Christ which results and not the encounter which saves. In Paul's case the encounter with Christ in this extraordinary way served to immediately turn him from his own darkness to the light of Christ, but also served to qualify him as an Apostle, the office to which Christ was calling him. An Apostle had to be one who had personally seen the resurrected Christ. Paul describes it to the church in this way in 1 Cor 15:3-9
3 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5 and that He appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. 6 After that He appeared to more than five hundred brethren at one time, most of whom remain until now, but some have fallen asleep; 7 then He appeared to James, then to all the apostles; 8 and last of all, as it were to one untimely born, He appeared to me also. NASB
4 and he fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?"
Saul is directly confronted by the Lord regarding his sin. Again, we do not ordinarily see a light and hear a voice. Yet it is more often our conscience which is pricked by the Spirit, either by a thought of our own, a word from another person, or God's Word either read or proclaimed which exposes our sin. The Light exposes what darkness hid. Bright light reveals every flaw of the skin and every bit of damage disorder or dirt which may be hidden by darkness. We cannot be truly converted to Christ until we see our sin for what it is, an offense against God himself. Saul is not simply persecuting Christians, he persecuted Jesus in his hatred and opposition to the church. He was not simply bothering people or breaking someone's rule, he was in opposition to God Himself. We like wise, to be truly converted must know our sin to be truly an offense against God for which we truly need forgiveness.
5 And he said, "Who are You, Lord?" And He said, "I am Jesus whom you are persecuting,
Yet in his ignorance, Saul did not know who he was offending, believing himself to be serving God. Jesus reveals Himself further as the one whom Saul is persecuting. When we are in our sin we are ignorant of our offense, believing our works to be good and our hearts sincere. Yet needing Christ to reveal to us our sin so that we may then seek and find forgiveness and new life in Christ.
6 but get up and enter the city, and it will be told you what you must do."
Not willing to leave Saul in his sin Jesus directs him to the way out, sending Him to Annanias to be ministered to, and to receive the Gospel and be baptized into Christ. God does not convict us of Sin to leave us in guilt but to direct us to its remedy. If you are convicted then cry out to God for forgiveness and believe and do what Christ would have you do when you are informed of the good news of salvatiion through faith in Jesus Christ. DO not reject the Word and go on your own way.
7 The men who traveled with him stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one.
There is a great Hymn which contains the line “Though none go with me, Still I will follow.” The others with Saul are not dealt with here. We do not know if they too believed after hearing the voice. The men did lead him on to Damascus, but this was his destination anyway. While others may not hear and see things as we do, when we sense a call to believe in and follow Christ, there is no legitimate reason to turn aside.
8 Saul got up from the ground, and though his eyes were open, he could see nothing; and leading him by the hand, they brought him into Damascus.
Saul was left blind by this encounter. We can speculate as to why; To show Him his real state, needing Christ to truly make him see; due to the bright light; to make him rely on others to teach him humility; to enable this encounter with Ananias. Whatever the reason we must see for ourselves that if we are to have our blindness to sin and our eyes opened to see God, it must be God who opens our eyes.
9 And he was three days without sight, and neither ate nor drank.
Saul spent this time fasting and as we are told in verse 11, praying. While we are without peace and full knowledge of our forgiveness of sin we remain as Saul, in darkness. Yet if we are believing we are in need of Christ, we should not simply go on about our business as usual. Saul prayed and fasted. If you are convicted of sin and unsure what to do, if you are sensing a need for Christ, If you are not sure if you are forgiven, then draw near to God and use the means at your disposal, Pray, fast if you may do so safely (recall Saul would have been accustomed to fasting as a pharisee), read the Bible as it is God's Word, and seek Godly counsel from the Church especially Pastors or elders who may minister to you and bring you to the assurance given by the gospel.
Now Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest, 2 and asked for letters from him to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, both men and women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. 3 As he was traveling, it happened that he was approaching Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him; 4 and he fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?" 5 And he said, "Who are You, Lord?" And He said, "I am Jesus whom you are persecuting, 6 but get up and enter the city, and it will be told you what you must do." 7 The men who traveled with him stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one. 8 Saul got up from the ground, and though his eyes were open, he could see nothing; and leading him by the hand, they brought him into Damascus. 9 And he was three days without sight, and neither ate nor drank.
10 Now there was a disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and the Lord said to him in a vision, "Ananias." And he said, "Here I am, Lord." 11 And the Lord said to him, "Get up and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying, 12 and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him, so that he might regain his sight." 13 But Ananias answered, "Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he did to Your saints at Jerusalem; 14 and here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name." 15 But the Lord said to him, "Go, for he is a chosen instrument of Mine, to bear My name before the Gentiles and kings and the sons of Israel; 16 for I will show him how much he must suffer for My name's sake." 17 So Ananias departed and entered the house, and after laying his hands on him said, " Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road by which you were coming, has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit." 18 And immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he regained his sight, and he got up and was baptized; 19 and he took food and was strengthened.
NASU
Acts 9:1-19 Exposition
Part 1: Blinded to see
Now Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest,
Notice that it is not when we are perfect that we are then chosen by God. It is not even when we are in a state of Spiritual readiness or openness that God may choose to move on our hearts to convert us. One of the greatest errors and lies of the devil is this: when man says “I am not prepared to come to Jesus.” Of course you are not ready. We are not called to get our life together before coming to Jesus. We are not called to enter a meditative state of openness to God to invite the Holy Spirit to move. The truth is that there is nothing that we may do to be worthy of Christs Love or the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Rom 5:6-10 says this:
6 For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For one will hardly die for a righteous man; though perhaps for the good man someone would dare even to die. 8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us . 9 Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him. 10 For if while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. NASB
The beginning of the telling of Saul's conversion begins with Him still breathing “threats and murder” against the church. His heart is filled with all malice, certainly not prepared or open to the things of God.
2 and asked for letters from him to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, both men and women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.
Not only was he thinking and speaking evil, he was also in the act of planning how he might persecute the church in a greater way than he had, seeking legal permission to imprison the believers. He also was pursuing this legal right as one who believed, like those who granted him these same letters, that he was doing good. It is not our best intentions which save us, but often our works that we set out to do believing to do good, that are the very sins for which we will need to be forgiven. Good intentions and sincerity do not save us.
3 As he was traveling, it happened that he was approaching Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him;
Many people do have testimonies of great and supernatural encounters with God which led to their conversion. Yet this is not the normal means. Ordinarily the means of coming to faith is the preaching of the Word of God, leading to faith in that Word. At times this may be accompanied by some miraculous sign or vision which grabs the attention of the person. Yet it is the faith in Christ which results and not the encounter which saves. In Paul's case the encounter with Christ in this extraordinary way served to immediately turn him from his own darkness to the light of Christ, but also served to qualify him as an Apostle, the office to which Christ was calling him. An Apostle had to be one who had personally seen the resurrected Christ. Paul describes it to the church in this way in 1 Cor 15:3-9
3 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5 and that He appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. 6 After that He appeared to more than five hundred brethren at one time, most of whom remain until now, but some have fallen asleep; 7 then He appeared to James, then to all the apostles; 8 and last of all, as it were to one untimely born, He appeared to me also. NASB
4 and he fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?"
Saul is directly confronted by the Lord regarding his sin. Again, we do not ordinarily see a light and hear a voice. Yet it is more often our conscience which is pricked by the Spirit, either by a thought of our own, a word from another person, or God's Word either read or proclaimed which exposes our sin. The Light exposes what darkness hid. Bright light reveals every flaw of the skin and every bit of damage disorder or dirt which may be hidden by darkness. We cannot be truly converted to Christ until we see our sin for what it is, an offense against God himself. Saul is not simply persecuting Christians, he persecuted Jesus in his hatred and opposition to the church. He was not simply bothering people or breaking someone's rule, he was in opposition to God Himself. We like wise, to be truly converted must know our sin to be truly an offense against God for which we truly need forgiveness.
5 And he said, "Who are You, Lord?" And He said, "I am Jesus whom you are persecuting,
Yet in his ignorance, Saul did not know who he was offending, believing himself to be serving God. Jesus reveals Himself further as the one whom Saul is persecuting. When we are in our sin we are ignorant of our offense, believing our works to be good and our hearts sincere. Yet needing Christ to reveal to us our sin so that we may then seek and find forgiveness and new life in Christ.
6 but get up and enter the city, and it will be told you what you must do."
Not willing to leave Saul in his sin Jesus directs him to the way out, sending Him to Annanias to be ministered to, and to receive the Gospel and be baptized into Christ. God does not convict us of Sin to leave us in guilt but to direct us to its remedy. If you are convicted then cry out to God for forgiveness and believe and do what Christ would have you do when you are informed of the good news of salvatiion through faith in Jesus Christ. DO not reject the Word and go on your own way.
7 The men who traveled with him stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one.
There is a great Hymn which contains the line “Though none go with me, Still I will follow.” The others with Saul are not dealt with here. We do not know if they too believed after hearing the voice. The men did lead him on to Damascus, but this was his destination anyway. While others may not hear and see things as we do, when we sense a call to believe in and follow Christ, there is no legitimate reason to turn aside.
8 Saul got up from the ground, and though his eyes were open, he could see nothing; and leading him by the hand, they brought him into Damascus.
Saul was left blind by this encounter. We can speculate as to why; To show Him his real state, needing Christ to truly make him see; due to the bright light; to make him rely on others to teach him humility; to enable this encounter with Ananias. Whatever the reason we must see for ourselves that if we are to have our blindness to sin and our eyes opened to see God, it must be God who opens our eyes.
9 And he was three days without sight, and neither ate nor drank.
Saul spent this time fasting and as we are told in verse 11, praying. While we are without peace and full knowledge of our forgiveness of sin we remain as Saul, in darkness. Yet if we are believing we are in need of Christ, we should not simply go on about our business as usual. Saul prayed and fasted. If you are convicted of sin and unsure what to do, if you are sensing a need for Christ, If you are not sure if you are forgiven, then draw near to God and use the means at your disposal, Pray, fast if you may do so safely (recall Saul would have been accustomed to fasting as a pharisee), read the Bible as it is God's Word, and seek Godly counsel from the Church especially Pastors or elders who may minister to you and bring you to the assurance given by the gospel.
Monday, September 15, 2008
A Night back in Kansas...sort of
Last night's windstorm was quite unlike anything I've ever seen in Pennsylvania. Dad sent pictures today of some trees blown down in his yard. Travelling from their home in Economy to take my sister home in Beaver falls we had numerous downed trees and limbs to contend with and had to detour a few times. Actually, the night was alot like being back in Kansas. The strong winds were like a typical windstorm and while rare here, would not have been remarkable out there. We wouldn't have had the number of downed trees that we had here since wind of that kind was common enough that any that were weak were probably already blown down. We'd get about 3-5 trees in town to remove and a lot of sticks to pick out of the yard in the morning. It was actually kind of neat to see wind of that strength again. While here we are so surrounded by natural beauty of trees, wildflowers, hills and mountains, out in the flater places I had to discover creation's beauty in the extremes of wind and weather. Unlike the majesty of mountains and old tall trees, I'd say it was the weather that inspired awe in the flatlands since it was the only thing appearing bigger than us.
I did hear of one terrible case of a person killed by a falling tree and I am sure there was some other costly damage. Like with our wild weather out there our hearts and prayers go out to those for whom it brings loss and sorrow. May the God who we see in creation's majesty and nature's power also bring the comfort and provision which He provides and promises in Jesus Christ.
In Christ and on the shepherd's Path,
Mark
I did hear of one terrible case of a person killed by a falling tree and I am sure there was some other costly damage. Like with our wild weather out there our hearts and prayers go out to those for whom it brings loss and sorrow. May the God who we see in creation's majesty and nature's power also bring the comfort and provision which He provides and promises in Jesus Christ.
In Christ and on the shepherd's Path,
Mark
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Sunday 9-14-08 A Heart Prepared...A Messenger Sent
Acts 8:25-40
25 So, when they had solemnly testified and spoken the word of the Lord, they started back to Jerusalem, and were preaching the gospel to many villages of the Samaritans.
26 But an angel of the Lord spoke to Philip saying, "Get up and go south to the road that descends from Jerusalem to Gaza." ( This is a desert road.) 27 So he got up and went; and there was an Ethiopian eunuch, a court official of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, who was in charge of all her treasure; and he had come to Jerusalem to worship, 28 and he was returning and sitting in his chariot, and was reading the prophet Isaiah. 29 Then the Spirit said to Philip, "Go up and join this chariot." 30 Philip ran up and heard him reading Isaiah the prophet, and said, "Do you understand what you are reading?" 31 And he said, "Well, how could I, unless someone guides me?" And he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. 32 Now the passage of Scripture which he was reading was this:
"HE WAS LED AS A SHEEP TO SLAUGHTER;
AND AS A LAMB BEFORE ITS SHEARER IS SILENT,
SO HE DOES NOT OPEN HIS MOUTH.
33 "IN HUMILIATION HIS JUDGMENT WAS TAKEN AWAY;
WHO WILL RELATE HIS GENERATION?
FOR HIS LIFE IS REMOVED FROM THE EARTH."
34 The eunuch answered Philip and said, "Please tell me, of whom does the prophet say this? Of himself or of someone else?" 35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning from this Scripture he preached Jesus to him. 36 As they went along the road they came to some water; and the eunuch said, "Look! Water! What prevents me from being baptized?" 37[ And Philip said, "If you believe with all your heart, you may." And he answered and said, "I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God."] 38 And he ordered the chariot to stop; and they both went down into the water, Philip as well as the eunuch, and he baptized him. 39 When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord snatched Philip away; and the eunuch no longer saw him, but went on his way rejoicing. 40 But Philip found himself at Azotus, and as he passed through he kept preaching the gospel to all the cities until he came to Caesarea.
NASU
Acts 8:25-40 Exposition
25 So, when they had solemnly testified and spoken the word of the Lord, they started back to Jerusalem, and were preaching the gospel to many villages of the Samaritans.
Remember that the foremost mission of the Apostles was the preaching of the gospel. After speaking as recored before, both to Simon the Sorcerer as well as baptizing the new believers at that “city in Samaria” (Acts 8:5) where Phillip had been preaching the Apostles set out to return to Jerusalem. The text clearly refers to the Apostles even though it is “they” who returned, since, we remember that the Apostles had not fled Jerusalem during this persecution as others such as Phillip had. Yet even in their return trip they were employed in their calling to preach the gospel as they would do in each of the Samaritan villages they traveled through. Likewise, if we are to follow their example, it is our calling to use the opportunities afforded by our circumstances to preach the gospel wherever life may take us. Note too that since the Spirit had been given to the “outsider” Samaritans, there is no hesitation on the return trip to share the gospel with other Samaritans, not just those who had been prepared by others such as Phillip.
26 But an angel of the Lord spoke to Philip saying, "Get up and go south to the road that descends from Jerusalem to Gaza." ( This is a desert road.)
A side note here: Notice the detail of Luke. There are those who would tell us the Bible contains mostly fiction. Yet in argument the author includes details of Geography as well as in the following verse, of people, whose identity could be verified. A historian could verify the existence of such people as officials, perhaps not the eunuch himself, but at least the queen, and archaeologists could verify details of geography. Even more so there were the contemporary readers of the account who would know of such places and people and would have refuted them if it would discredit the Christian accounts which they opposed. Perhaps this story is not as good an example as Luke's birth narrative of Jesus, but it occasions this discussion. A writer who is trying to advance some idea as truth risks much by including details which could be verified in his accounts. See Lee Stroebel's The case for Christ for a much better treatment of this argument than I am able to make here.
The angel directs Phillip to a new mission having accomplished his purpose there in that Samaritan City. He is not told specifically what he will do but only a place, or even less, a direction to go. God purposed this mission marking its necessity by sending an angel to ensure the accurate understanding of God's will and purpose for Phillip.
27 So he got up and went; and there was an Ethiopian eunuch, a court official of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, who was in charge of all her treasure; and he had come to Jerusalem to worship,
Phillip's response is obedient and he meets on his way this Ethiopian eunuch. Now a eunuch if you are unaware is a man whose testicles have been removed so that He might be trusted to serve in close proximity to royal women. While a slave he was not the kind of slave we might picture, but a man who probably enjoyed certain advantages of wealth and privilege with the significant exception of his condition as a eunuch. He thus was free to come to Jerusalem to worship. By his coming we will note that he is obviously devoted to the God of Israel since he comes to worship even though his condition of being a eunuch would have excluded him from the Temple. See Deuteronomy 23:1
"He whose testicles are crushed or whose male member is cut off shall not enter the assembly of the LORD.” RSV
This is listed among the various persons who are to be excluded from the worship of ancient Israel, yet even as he was partially excluded the Eunuch comes to worship as he is able. What a contrast to those who insist that worship and the church's faith and teaching be modified to accommodate their preferences and comfort. The Eunuch's devotion to God is a demonstration of God at work in him in such a way that he is provided the way, who once was excluded, to inclusion in the body of Christ.
28 and he was returning and sitting in his chariot, and was reading the prophet Isaiah.
We see his devotion as well in his reading of the prophet. This man, while excluded from the temple applied his privilege in such a way, not to spend it on his own pleasures but to gain what would aid him in drawing nearer to his God. Remember scrolls of scripture were not easily or cheaply acquired. Do we use our wealth to gain pleasure or to serve God?
29 Then the Spirit said to Philip, "Go up and join this chariot."
The Spirit now communicating with Phillip, the Spirit and not an Angel this time, sends Phillip to the chariot of the Ethiopian. This was a unlikely a person for Phillip to seek out for conversation as they differed in so many ways, yet the Spirit drives Phillip to seek him out. Note too that God communicates in whatever manner he wills, at times using angels, at times the Spirit, and at times men. Just as God chooses What he will do, (save us), and whom he will do it for (the elect), God also sovereignly chooses the means, that is how, to accomplish His will. So foolish is the argument to say that we need not do our part in preaching the Gospel because God can save the elect without us. The fact is God chooses us to preach the Gospel and that preaching is the means of our coming to faith. Romans 10:14-15 says
14 How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? 15 And how can they preach unless they are sent? NIV
So the notion that we may avoid the preaching of the Gospel on the grounds of how some characterize predestination or election is both unbiblical and foolish.
30 Philip ran up and heard him reading Isaiah the prophet, and said, "Do you understand what you are reading?"
The man read aloud, and Phillip hearing him asks if he indeed understands the passage he is reading.
31 And he said, "Well, how could I, unless someone guides me?" And he invited Philip to come up and sit with him.
Again the Ethiopian's faith disperses all of our best excuses. We often dismiss the Scriptures as too difficult, yet he reads, in a language foreign to him no less, and out loud, words he does not know how to interpret. Yet he reads them nonetheless. They are important to him. He also seeks interpretation from one who seems like he might know something, inviting Phillip to join him in the chariot. How many pastors would love to be asked to interpret scripture rather than make some change in the service to appease a member's tastes. How many people choose their church based on comfort rather than the teaching given from the pulpit. Choosing the sound of the music rather than the soundness of doctrine. The best churches do not make you make a choice but offer both excellence in worship and solid, Biblical teaching and preaching.
32 Now the passage of Scripture which he was reading was this:
"HE WAS LED AS A SHEEP TO SLAUGHTER;
AND AS A LAMB BEFORE ITS SHEARER IS SILENT,
SO HE DOES NOT OPEN HIS MOUTH.
33 "IN HUMILIATION HIS JUDGMENT WAS TAKEN AWAY;
WHO WILL RELATE HIS GENERATION?
FOR HIS LIFE IS REMOVED FROM THE EARTH."
The passage is one of the passages in Isaiah pointing to the Messiah as the “Suffering Servant”. It is no coincidence that the Ethiopian is reading this passage and his curiosity leads to his question. The Spirit drives all right questions concerning God and directs us to their answer.
34 The eunuch answered Philip and said, "Please tell me, of whom does the prophet say this? Of himself or of someone else?"
Reading this passage naturally and not knowing of Jesus one might well ask the same question. Yet there is always a correct interpretation of Scripture even if it eludes us. This is no literature for us to discuss what the author “might have meant” or seek various symbolic or levels of meaning. If the meaning eludes us we can be sure there is a meaning. We must pray for its interpretation as well a seek as good of counsel as we may find. Where we may not find the answer still, it is wise to look for a simple meaning that is faithful to the rest of Scripture and set aside the question until the Lord provides a clearer revelation of His Word to you. But always seek God's Word as He would give it, not as you would have Him speak.
35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning from this Scripture he preached Jesus to him.
Given this opportunity Phillip now opens the Scriptures to the Ethiopian that he may believe in Christ. Do not forget that the object of God's Word is to bring us to faith in the one John calls the Word (Read John 1), namely Jesus.
36 As they went along the road they came to some water; and the eunuch said, "Look! Water! What prevents me from being baptized?"
We see the effectiveness of God's Word and Spirit here in that it produces the fruit of obedience in that the man seeks to be baptized at the first opportunity. He does not delay for a convenient time, but having heard of and believed in Jesus, wishes to be identified with Jesus in baptism. So we are taught not to simply believe in Jesus but keep His church (into which we are baptized) at arms length.
37[ And Philip said, "If you believe with all your heart, you may." And he answered and said, "I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God."]
This passage does not appear in the earliest manuscripts and is considered by some an addition. Without getting into textual criticism and attempting to determine what is and is not the Word of God, I will instead attempt to gain what fruit is available from the passage itself. It does little to advance the account since without it Phillip is next seen baptizing him and therefore confirming a true confession of Christ and desire for identification with Him. Nonetheless, you may see from this passage that Phillip seeks certainty in the man's confession and is given it. As the man was capable of understanding the Gospel he is to be fully certain of what he is seeking in baptism. A child lacks this capacity and is baptized in faith that they, being identified with Christ in their youth, will come to own their faith and baptism. The Eunuch, however is to enter the covenant marked by baptism with full knowledge of what he is doing and no immediate misunderstanding of the purpose of his baptism. The Ethiopian confesses that he in fact believes that Jesus is the Son of God.
38 And he ordered the chariot to stop; and they both went down into the water, Philip as well as the eunuch, and he baptized him.
As his confession was true he is Baptized by Phillip identifying himself both with Jesus Christ and with Phillip who is now a brother in Christ.
39 When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord snatched Philip away; and the eunuch no longer saw him, but went on his way rejoicing.
God's purpose having been fulfilled, Phillip is taken away. The bizarre way this is stated leans us toward a supernatural explanation which is acceptable but not entirely necessary. In other words, If you believe it was supernatural that is fine. If not, I am of the opinion that your faith in not deficient. The supernatural element of Phillip's departure only serves to emphasize God's action in this event which has been established already. Take away from this the result that the eunuch likewise goes on his way rejoicing, demonstrating that quality and indeed fruit of the Spirit which is Joy.
40 But Philip found himself at Azotus, and as he passed through he kept preaching the gospel to all the cities until he came to Caesarea.
The chapter concludes with Phillip continuing his mission, beginning at this new city, Azotus and preaching the Gospel all the way as he went to a new destination. Our commission is to preach the Gospel everywhere we go and to make the most of every opportunity.
Colossians 4:5-6 instructs us in this way:
5 Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. 6 Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person. NASU
Likewise Ephesians 5:15-21 teaches
15 Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, 16 making the most of your time, because the days are evil. 17 So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. 18 And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord; 20 always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father; 21 and be subject to one another in the fear of Christ. NASU
May we do so.
In Christ and On The Shepherd's Path,
Mark
25 So, when they had solemnly testified and spoken the word of the Lord, they started back to Jerusalem, and were preaching the gospel to many villages of the Samaritans.
26 But an angel of the Lord spoke to Philip saying, "Get up and go south to the road that descends from Jerusalem to Gaza." ( This is a desert road.) 27 So he got up and went; and there was an Ethiopian eunuch, a court official of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, who was in charge of all her treasure; and he had come to Jerusalem to worship, 28 and he was returning and sitting in his chariot, and was reading the prophet Isaiah. 29 Then the Spirit said to Philip, "Go up and join this chariot." 30 Philip ran up and heard him reading Isaiah the prophet, and said, "Do you understand what you are reading?" 31 And he said, "Well, how could I, unless someone guides me?" And he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. 32 Now the passage of Scripture which he was reading was this:
"HE WAS LED AS A SHEEP TO SLAUGHTER;
AND AS A LAMB BEFORE ITS SHEARER IS SILENT,
SO HE DOES NOT OPEN HIS MOUTH.
33 "IN HUMILIATION HIS JUDGMENT WAS TAKEN AWAY;
WHO WILL RELATE HIS GENERATION?
FOR HIS LIFE IS REMOVED FROM THE EARTH."
34 The eunuch answered Philip and said, "Please tell me, of whom does the prophet say this? Of himself or of someone else?" 35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning from this Scripture he preached Jesus to him. 36 As they went along the road they came to some water; and the eunuch said, "Look! Water! What prevents me from being baptized?" 37[ And Philip said, "If you believe with all your heart, you may." And he answered and said, "I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God."] 38 And he ordered the chariot to stop; and they both went down into the water, Philip as well as the eunuch, and he baptized him. 39 When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord snatched Philip away; and the eunuch no longer saw him, but went on his way rejoicing. 40 But Philip found himself at Azotus, and as he passed through he kept preaching the gospel to all the cities until he came to Caesarea.
NASU
Acts 8:25-40 Exposition
25 So, when they had solemnly testified and spoken the word of the Lord, they started back to Jerusalem, and were preaching the gospel to many villages of the Samaritans.
Remember that the foremost mission of the Apostles was the preaching of the gospel. After speaking as recored before, both to Simon the Sorcerer as well as baptizing the new believers at that “city in Samaria” (Acts 8:5) where Phillip had been preaching the Apostles set out to return to Jerusalem. The text clearly refers to the Apostles even though it is “they” who returned, since, we remember that the Apostles had not fled Jerusalem during this persecution as others such as Phillip had. Yet even in their return trip they were employed in their calling to preach the gospel as they would do in each of the Samaritan villages they traveled through. Likewise, if we are to follow their example, it is our calling to use the opportunities afforded by our circumstances to preach the gospel wherever life may take us. Note too that since the Spirit had been given to the “outsider” Samaritans, there is no hesitation on the return trip to share the gospel with other Samaritans, not just those who had been prepared by others such as Phillip.
26 But an angel of the Lord spoke to Philip saying, "Get up and go south to the road that descends from Jerusalem to Gaza." ( This is a desert road.)
A side note here: Notice the detail of Luke. There are those who would tell us the Bible contains mostly fiction. Yet in argument the author includes details of Geography as well as in the following verse, of people, whose identity could be verified. A historian could verify the existence of such people as officials, perhaps not the eunuch himself, but at least the queen, and archaeologists could verify details of geography. Even more so there were the contemporary readers of the account who would know of such places and people and would have refuted them if it would discredit the Christian accounts which they opposed. Perhaps this story is not as good an example as Luke's birth narrative of Jesus, but it occasions this discussion. A writer who is trying to advance some idea as truth risks much by including details which could be verified in his accounts. See Lee Stroebel's The case for Christ for a much better treatment of this argument than I am able to make here.
The angel directs Phillip to a new mission having accomplished his purpose there in that Samaritan City. He is not told specifically what he will do but only a place, or even less, a direction to go. God purposed this mission marking its necessity by sending an angel to ensure the accurate understanding of God's will and purpose for Phillip.
27 So he got up and went; and there was an Ethiopian eunuch, a court official of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, who was in charge of all her treasure; and he had come to Jerusalem to worship,
Phillip's response is obedient and he meets on his way this Ethiopian eunuch. Now a eunuch if you are unaware is a man whose testicles have been removed so that He might be trusted to serve in close proximity to royal women. While a slave he was not the kind of slave we might picture, but a man who probably enjoyed certain advantages of wealth and privilege with the significant exception of his condition as a eunuch. He thus was free to come to Jerusalem to worship. By his coming we will note that he is obviously devoted to the God of Israel since he comes to worship even though his condition of being a eunuch would have excluded him from the Temple. See Deuteronomy 23:1
"He whose testicles are crushed or whose male member is cut off shall not enter the assembly of the LORD.” RSV
This is listed among the various persons who are to be excluded from the worship of ancient Israel, yet even as he was partially excluded the Eunuch comes to worship as he is able. What a contrast to those who insist that worship and the church's faith and teaching be modified to accommodate their preferences and comfort. The Eunuch's devotion to God is a demonstration of God at work in him in such a way that he is provided the way, who once was excluded, to inclusion in the body of Christ.
28 and he was returning and sitting in his chariot, and was reading the prophet Isaiah.
We see his devotion as well in his reading of the prophet. This man, while excluded from the temple applied his privilege in such a way, not to spend it on his own pleasures but to gain what would aid him in drawing nearer to his God. Remember scrolls of scripture were not easily or cheaply acquired. Do we use our wealth to gain pleasure or to serve God?
29 Then the Spirit said to Philip, "Go up and join this chariot."
The Spirit now communicating with Phillip, the Spirit and not an Angel this time, sends Phillip to the chariot of the Ethiopian. This was a unlikely a person for Phillip to seek out for conversation as they differed in so many ways, yet the Spirit drives Phillip to seek him out. Note too that God communicates in whatever manner he wills, at times using angels, at times the Spirit, and at times men. Just as God chooses What he will do, (save us), and whom he will do it for (the elect), God also sovereignly chooses the means, that is how, to accomplish His will. So foolish is the argument to say that we need not do our part in preaching the Gospel because God can save the elect without us. The fact is God chooses us to preach the Gospel and that preaching is the means of our coming to faith. Romans 10:14-15 says
14 How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? 15 And how can they preach unless they are sent? NIV
So the notion that we may avoid the preaching of the Gospel on the grounds of how some characterize predestination or election is both unbiblical and foolish.
30 Philip ran up and heard him reading Isaiah the prophet, and said, "Do you understand what you are reading?"
The man read aloud, and Phillip hearing him asks if he indeed understands the passage he is reading.
31 And he said, "Well, how could I, unless someone guides me?" And he invited Philip to come up and sit with him.
Again the Ethiopian's faith disperses all of our best excuses. We often dismiss the Scriptures as too difficult, yet he reads, in a language foreign to him no less, and out loud, words he does not know how to interpret. Yet he reads them nonetheless. They are important to him. He also seeks interpretation from one who seems like he might know something, inviting Phillip to join him in the chariot. How many pastors would love to be asked to interpret scripture rather than make some change in the service to appease a member's tastes. How many people choose their church based on comfort rather than the teaching given from the pulpit. Choosing the sound of the music rather than the soundness of doctrine. The best churches do not make you make a choice but offer both excellence in worship and solid, Biblical teaching and preaching.
32 Now the passage of Scripture which he was reading was this:
"HE WAS LED AS A SHEEP TO SLAUGHTER;
AND AS A LAMB BEFORE ITS SHEARER IS SILENT,
SO HE DOES NOT OPEN HIS MOUTH.
33 "IN HUMILIATION HIS JUDGMENT WAS TAKEN AWAY;
WHO WILL RELATE HIS GENERATION?
FOR HIS LIFE IS REMOVED FROM THE EARTH."
The passage is one of the passages in Isaiah pointing to the Messiah as the “Suffering Servant”. It is no coincidence that the Ethiopian is reading this passage and his curiosity leads to his question. The Spirit drives all right questions concerning God and directs us to their answer.
34 The eunuch answered Philip and said, "Please tell me, of whom does the prophet say this? Of himself or of someone else?"
Reading this passage naturally and not knowing of Jesus one might well ask the same question. Yet there is always a correct interpretation of Scripture even if it eludes us. This is no literature for us to discuss what the author “might have meant” or seek various symbolic or levels of meaning. If the meaning eludes us we can be sure there is a meaning. We must pray for its interpretation as well a seek as good of counsel as we may find. Where we may not find the answer still, it is wise to look for a simple meaning that is faithful to the rest of Scripture and set aside the question until the Lord provides a clearer revelation of His Word to you. But always seek God's Word as He would give it, not as you would have Him speak.
35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning from this Scripture he preached Jesus to him.
Given this opportunity Phillip now opens the Scriptures to the Ethiopian that he may believe in Christ. Do not forget that the object of God's Word is to bring us to faith in the one John calls the Word (Read John 1), namely Jesus.
36 As they went along the road they came to some water; and the eunuch said, "Look! Water! What prevents me from being baptized?"
We see the effectiveness of God's Word and Spirit here in that it produces the fruit of obedience in that the man seeks to be baptized at the first opportunity. He does not delay for a convenient time, but having heard of and believed in Jesus, wishes to be identified with Jesus in baptism. So we are taught not to simply believe in Jesus but keep His church (into which we are baptized) at arms length.
37[ And Philip said, "If you believe with all your heart, you may." And he answered and said, "I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God."]
This passage does not appear in the earliest manuscripts and is considered by some an addition. Without getting into textual criticism and attempting to determine what is and is not the Word of God, I will instead attempt to gain what fruit is available from the passage itself. It does little to advance the account since without it Phillip is next seen baptizing him and therefore confirming a true confession of Christ and desire for identification with Him. Nonetheless, you may see from this passage that Phillip seeks certainty in the man's confession and is given it. As the man was capable of understanding the Gospel he is to be fully certain of what he is seeking in baptism. A child lacks this capacity and is baptized in faith that they, being identified with Christ in their youth, will come to own their faith and baptism. The Eunuch, however is to enter the covenant marked by baptism with full knowledge of what he is doing and no immediate misunderstanding of the purpose of his baptism. The Ethiopian confesses that he in fact believes that Jesus is the Son of God.
38 And he ordered the chariot to stop; and they both went down into the water, Philip as well as the eunuch, and he baptized him.
As his confession was true he is Baptized by Phillip identifying himself both with Jesus Christ and with Phillip who is now a brother in Christ.
39 When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord snatched Philip away; and the eunuch no longer saw him, but went on his way rejoicing.
God's purpose having been fulfilled, Phillip is taken away. The bizarre way this is stated leans us toward a supernatural explanation which is acceptable but not entirely necessary. In other words, If you believe it was supernatural that is fine. If not, I am of the opinion that your faith in not deficient. The supernatural element of Phillip's departure only serves to emphasize God's action in this event which has been established already. Take away from this the result that the eunuch likewise goes on his way rejoicing, demonstrating that quality and indeed fruit of the Spirit which is Joy.
40 But Philip found himself at Azotus, and as he passed through he kept preaching the gospel to all the cities until he came to Caesarea.
The chapter concludes with Phillip continuing his mission, beginning at this new city, Azotus and preaching the Gospel all the way as he went to a new destination. Our commission is to preach the Gospel everywhere we go and to make the most of every opportunity.
Colossians 4:5-6 instructs us in this way:
5 Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. 6 Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person. NASU
Likewise Ephesians 5:15-21 teaches
15 Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, 16 making the most of your time, because the days are evil. 17 So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. 18 And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord; 20 always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father; 21 and be subject to one another in the fear of Christ. NASU
May we do so.
In Christ and On The Shepherd's Path,
Mark
Sunday, September 7, 2008
How do You Respond to Correction?
Acts 8:9-24
9 Now there was a man named Simon, who formerly was practicing magic in the city and astonishing the people of Samaria, claiming to be someone great; 10 and they all, from smallest to greatest, were giving attention to him, saying, " This man is what is called the Great Power of God." 11 And they were giving him attention because he had for a long time astonished them with his magic arts. 12 But when they believed Philip preaching the good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were being baptized, men and women alike. 13 Even Simon himself believed; and after being baptized, he continued on with Philip, and as he observed signs and great miracles taking place, he was constantly amazed.
14 Now when the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent them Peter and John, 15 who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit. 16 For He had not yet fallen upon any of them; they had simply been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then they began laying their hands on them, and they were receiving the Holy Spirit. 18 Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was bestowed through the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money, 19 saying, "Give this authority to me as well, so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit." 20 But Peter said to him, "May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money! 21 "You have no part or portion in this matter, for your heart is not right before God. 22 "Therefore repent of this wickedness of yours, and pray the Lord that, if possible, the intention of your heart may be forgiven you. 23 "For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in the bondage of iniquity." 24 But Simon answered and said, " Pray to the Lord for me yourselves, so that nothing of what you have said may come upon me."
NASU
Acts 8:9-24 Exposition
9 Now there was a man named Simon, who formerly was practicing magic in the city and astonishing the people of Samaria, claiming to be someone great;
Simon had made a name for himself through the practice of magic or sorcery. That His art was not to the glory of God can be seen in that he used it to His own ends; to gain a name for himself, and “claiming to be someone great” promoted himself. The use of power and particularly either real or the illusion of spiritual power to ones own service is what God's people are warned against repeatedly in the Old testament as well as the new. In addition any power we may have is to be used for God's glory alone and not for our own promotion.
10 and they all, from smallest to greatest, were giving attention to him, saying, " This man is what is called the Great Power of God."
Nothing is said of Simon turning aside this praise so we are to infer this was acceptable to him and indeed allowed him to enjoy a great reputation.
11 And they were giving him attention because he had for a long time astonished them with his magic arts.
His celebrity was gained through the use of the sorcery itself and seemingly not for any perceived good he did with it. It may be argued that he did no harm, following what is today among those practicing witchcraft called the “witches reede”, “and it harms none do what thou wilt”. One may view this then as so-called white-magic even though its end is no better than magic done to create evil as he serves himself and not God. If indeed His power was from God then certainly it should have been employed to a higher purpose than self promotion and celebrity. Likewise, what talents we possess are gift from God and should be employed to the glory and purpose of God and not for any lesser thing.
12 But when they believed Philip preaching the good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were being baptized, men and women alike.
Without judging the people of Samaria as to the eternal effect of their conversion, it does seem that they are people easily attracted to a new thing. We shall say then that while we must certainly hear and respond to the gospel, and be baptized, we must also persevere in faith. One may respond to the Good news for various reasons,but perseverance in faith demonstrated that our response was more than an excited reply to an attractive offer.
13 Even Simon himself believed; and after being baptized, he continued on with Philip, and as he observed signs and great miracles taking place, he was constantly amazed.
Simon himself believed and was baptized, following and observing the miracles done through Philip.
14 Now when the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent them Peter and John,
Showing the importance of connection among the members of the church the Apostles come to Samaria to see the results of this successful evangelistic work by Phillip. Our work in the church if it is of God will be approved by those who by right faith and practice are a part of the true Church. While disagreements may occur, and while the world especially will hate our work, in the end God's people will recognize and approve what God is doing. Time and examination by the church with faithful submission to the authority and guidance of scripture can separate the gold from the dross and the wheat from the chaff.
15 who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit.
The response of the church is to pray for these new converts that their conversion may indeed be complete. Too often when someone whom we may distrust is converted we smugly sit back and say “we'll see”. Yet the apostles take a different approach. They come and see these Samaritans and pray for them asking God to indeed give them the Holy Spirit. When you see a person make a decision to trust in Christ, do not doubt but rather pray, since God is the one who works in all true conversions.
16 For He had not yet fallen upon any of them; they had simply been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
For reasons we can only speculate, the Holy Spirit was not received by these people at the moment of belief or at their baptism.
17 Then they began laying their hands on them, and they were receiving the Holy Spirit.
Yet as the Apostles prayed and laid hands on them they did indeed receive the Spirit. Whatever we think might be the natural result of preaching, teaching, sharing our faith, or any other godly efforts we make we can be assured that God answers prayer and bestows his Spirit as He wills and when He wills. The Apostles were appointed to go and through laying on hands pass along the Holy Spirit. Be assured the Spirit would not have been given had God not willed it. It was not the people's reaction to Phillip's preaching or the act of their baptism, or even the physical act of laying on hands that bestowed the Spirit, for we cannot make God do anything he does not will. Yet the Apostles prayed and then in faith laid hands on those who would receive and they did receive the Holy Spirit.
18 Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was bestowed through the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money, 19 saying, "Give this authority to me as well, so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit."
Simon saw only the act and did not understand the power or purpose behind it. He was used to dealing in magic where the right words or actions achieved the desired effect and so thought he could purchase this ability. It is only speculation whether he in his heart desired this ability to grow the church or merely his own reputation. Even so we can learn from Simon that whether for good intentions or selfish ones we should not attempt by our own means to gain gifts not given to us. This does not mean we should not be educated or learn new skills but simply that we should not envy or covet those gifts we admire in others.
20 But Peter said to him, "May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money!
Peter's rebuke is quick and harsh to our ears. Yet how much more effective might the church be if we were more ready to briefly and directly correct wrong and error than to try to fix it by politics or persuasion. This is not to encourage rudeness, but when error is plain to the church it should be corrected.
21 "You have no part or portion in this matter, for your heart is not right before God.
Regardless of what Simon planned to do with the ability his heart was not right at the least because he was not content with what he had already received in Christ: Salvation, the Holy Spirit, and baptism into Christ's body the church. Rather than following a calling he sought to grasp a high position for himself thinking it was something he might gain by purchase. Our role in the church is one of grateful followers of Christs calling. There is no higher or lower state. A Pastor is not elevated above a Deacon. Elder, or Lay Person. These are simply different callings and ministries. Therefore one pursues each state only as he or she is called not as a rung in a ladder to be climbed.
22 "Therefore repent of this wickedness of yours, and pray the Lord that, if possible, the intention of your heart may be forgiven you.
With the rebuke is included the way out. Peter offers Simon the offer give to each of us when we are in error. Repent! Turn away from sin and error and loathe it and seek what is right, and then ask forgiveness and a right heart. It is wrong of us to rebuke a person without also offering the way of correction and the assurance of forgiveness which is offered in Christ.
23 "For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in the bondage of iniquity."
Prophetically (as this is recorded in the Word of God and therefore true) the Apostle speaks to Simon concerning the condition of his heart. We should beware of what sins may come from bitterness, envy, and what bondage we can fall into when sin is tolerated in ourselves or in our members. Set aside all bitterness and seek in Christ freedom from all sin. Do not tolerate any sin in yourself, repent quickly and seek forgiveness where it may be found, namely from and in the shed blood of Jesus Christ. In the church Call sin what God's Word calls sin. Be careful of making laws of your own but clearly oppose those things which Scripture calls sin. Warn gently yet firmly, and out of nothing else than love, those who continue in sin and pray for their return.
24 But Simon answered and said, " Pray to the Lord for me yourselves, so that nothing of what you have said may come upon me."
I am unsure of Simon's response. Does his response mean he truly repents and desires their prayers. Or does he remain in bitterness and therefore return their words bitterly refusing to pray for himself, and seeking only freedom from consequences.
Rather than answer I instead will offer you this: When you are rebuked, whether by Scripture alone, preaching, an Elder, or a friend or church member, do not respond with bitterness. Examine your heart. If your conduct is right you will be affirmed by the church. Yet if you find any fault in youself, do not ask others to pray until you yourself have prayed and asked, not for freedom from consequences, but for forgiveness, a right heart, and correct action.
In Christ and On the Shepherd's Path,
Mark
9 Now there was a man named Simon, who formerly was practicing magic in the city and astonishing the people of Samaria, claiming to be someone great; 10 and they all, from smallest to greatest, were giving attention to him, saying, " This man is what is called the Great Power of God." 11 And they were giving him attention because he had for a long time astonished them with his magic arts. 12 But when they believed Philip preaching the good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were being baptized, men and women alike. 13 Even Simon himself believed; and after being baptized, he continued on with Philip, and as he observed signs and great miracles taking place, he was constantly amazed.
14 Now when the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent them Peter and John, 15 who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit. 16 For He had not yet fallen upon any of them; they had simply been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then they began laying their hands on them, and they were receiving the Holy Spirit. 18 Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was bestowed through the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money, 19 saying, "Give this authority to me as well, so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit." 20 But Peter said to him, "May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money! 21 "You have no part or portion in this matter, for your heart is not right before God. 22 "Therefore repent of this wickedness of yours, and pray the Lord that, if possible, the intention of your heart may be forgiven you. 23 "For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in the bondage of iniquity." 24 But Simon answered and said, " Pray to the Lord for me yourselves, so that nothing of what you have said may come upon me."
NASU
Acts 8:9-24 Exposition
9 Now there was a man named Simon, who formerly was practicing magic in the city and astonishing the people of Samaria, claiming to be someone great;
Simon had made a name for himself through the practice of magic or sorcery. That His art was not to the glory of God can be seen in that he used it to His own ends; to gain a name for himself, and “claiming to be someone great” promoted himself. The use of power and particularly either real or the illusion of spiritual power to ones own service is what God's people are warned against repeatedly in the Old testament as well as the new. In addition any power we may have is to be used for God's glory alone and not for our own promotion.
10 and they all, from smallest to greatest, were giving attention to him, saying, " This man is what is called the Great Power of God."
Nothing is said of Simon turning aside this praise so we are to infer this was acceptable to him and indeed allowed him to enjoy a great reputation.
11 And they were giving him attention because he had for a long time astonished them with his magic arts.
His celebrity was gained through the use of the sorcery itself and seemingly not for any perceived good he did with it. It may be argued that he did no harm, following what is today among those practicing witchcraft called the “witches reede”, “and it harms none do what thou wilt”. One may view this then as so-called white-magic even though its end is no better than magic done to create evil as he serves himself and not God. If indeed His power was from God then certainly it should have been employed to a higher purpose than self promotion and celebrity. Likewise, what talents we possess are gift from God and should be employed to the glory and purpose of God and not for any lesser thing.
12 But when they believed Philip preaching the good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were being baptized, men and women alike.
Without judging the people of Samaria as to the eternal effect of their conversion, it does seem that they are people easily attracted to a new thing. We shall say then that while we must certainly hear and respond to the gospel, and be baptized, we must also persevere in faith. One may respond to the Good news for various reasons,but perseverance in faith demonstrated that our response was more than an excited reply to an attractive offer.
13 Even Simon himself believed; and after being baptized, he continued on with Philip, and as he observed signs and great miracles taking place, he was constantly amazed.
Simon himself believed and was baptized, following and observing the miracles done through Philip.
14 Now when the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent them Peter and John,
Showing the importance of connection among the members of the church the Apostles come to Samaria to see the results of this successful evangelistic work by Phillip. Our work in the church if it is of God will be approved by those who by right faith and practice are a part of the true Church. While disagreements may occur, and while the world especially will hate our work, in the end God's people will recognize and approve what God is doing. Time and examination by the church with faithful submission to the authority and guidance of scripture can separate the gold from the dross and the wheat from the chaff.
15 who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit.
The response of the church is to pray for these new converts that their conversion may indeed be complete. Too often when someone whom we may distrust is converted we smugly sit back and say “we'll see”. Yet the apostles take a different approach. They come and see these Samaritans and pray for them asking God to indeed give them the Holy Spirit. When you see a person make a decision to trust in Christ, do not doubt but rather pray, since God is the one who works in all true conversions.
16 For He had not yet fallen upon any of them; they had simply been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
For reasons we can only speculate, the Holy Spirit was not received by these people at the moment of belief or at their baptism.
17 Then they began laying their hands on them, and they were receiving the Holy Spirit.
Yet as the Apostles prayed and laid hands on them they did indeed receive the Spirit. Whatever we think might be the natural result of preaching, teaching, sharing our faith, or any other godly efforts we make we can be assured that God answers prayer and bestows his Spirit as He wills and when He wills. The Apostles were appointed to go and through laying on hands pass along the Holy Spirit. Be assured the Spirit would not have been given had God not willed it. It was not the people's reaction to Phillip's preaching or the act of their baptism, or even the physical act of laying on hands that bestowed the Spirit, for we cannot make God do anything he does not will. Yet the Apostles prayed and then in faith laid hands on those who would receive and they did receive the Holy Spirit.
18 Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was bestowed through the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money, 19 saying, "Give this authority to me as well, so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit."
Simon saw only the act and did not understand the power or purpose behind it. He was used to dealing in magic where the right words or actions achieved the desired effect and so thought he could purchase this ability. It is only speculation whether he in his heart desired this ability to grow the church or merely his own reputation. Even so we can learn from Simon that whether for good intentions or selfish ones we should not attempt by our own means to gain gifts not given to us. This does not mean we should not be educated or learn new skills but simply that we should not envy or covet those gifts we admire in others.
20 But Peter said to him, "May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money!
Peter's rebuke is quick and harsh to our ears. Yet how much more effective might the church be if we were more ready to briefly and directly correct wrong and error than to try to fix it by politics or persuasion. This is not to encourage rudeness, but when error is plain to the church it should be corrected.
21 "You have no part or portion in this matter, for your heart is not right before God.
Regardless of what Simon planned to do with the ability his heart was not right at the least because he was not content with what he had already received in Christ: Salvation, the Holy Spirit, and baptism into Christ's body the church. Rather than following a calling he sought to grasp a high position for himself thinking it was something he might gain by purchase. Our role in the church is one of grateful followers of Christs calling. There is no higher or lower state. A Pastor is not elevated above a Deacon. Elder, or Lay Person. These are simply different callings and ministries. Therefore one pursues each state only as he or she is called not as a rung in a ladder to be climbed.
22 "Therefore repent of this wickedness of yours, and pray the Lord that, if possible, the intention of your heart may be forgiven you.
With the rebuke is included the way out. Peter offers Simon the offer give to each of us when we are in error. Repent! Turn away from sin and error and loathe it and seek what is right, and then ask forgiveness and a right heart. It is wrong of us to rebuke a person without also offering the way of correction and the assurance of forgiveness which is offered in Christ.
23 "For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in the bondage of iniquity."
Prophetically (as this is recorded in the Word of God and therefore true) the Apostle speaks to Simon concerning the condition of his heart. We should beware of what sins may come from bitterness, envy, and what bondage we can fall into when sin is tolerated in ourselves or in our members. Set aside all bitterness and seek in Christ freedom from all sin. Do not tolerate any sin in yourself, repent quickly and seek forgiveness where it may be found, namely from and in the shed blood of Jesus Christ. In the church Call sin what God's Word calls sin. Be careful of making laws of your own but clearly oppose those things which Scripture calls sin. Warn gently yet firmly, and out of nothing else than love, those who continue in sin and pray for their return.
24 But Simon answered and said, " Pray to the Lord for me yourselves, so that nothing of what you have said may come upon me."
I am unsure of Simon's response. Does his response mean he truly repents and desires their prayers. Or does he remain in bitterness and therefore return their words bitterly refusing to pray for himself, and seeking only freedom from consequences.
Rather than answer I instead will offer you this: When you are rebuked, whether by Scripture alone, preaching, an Elder, or a friend or church member, do not respond with bitterness. Examine your heart. If your conduct is right you will be affirmed by the church. Yet if you find any fault in youself, do not ask others to pray until you yourself have prayed and asked, not for freedom from consequences, but for forgiveness, a right heart, and correct action.
In Christ and On the Shepherd's Path,
Mark
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Sundays Text 9-7-08
This Sunday we return to our Fall Schedule of 11 AM Services. I am excited to be returning to the Study of Acts as well as beginning a Sunday School Class Studying the book of Phillippians.
Hope to see you all there. Here is Sunday's text.
Acts 8:9-24
9 Now there was a man named Simon, who formerly was practicing magic in the city and astonishing the people of Samaria, claiming to be someone great; 10 and they all, from smallest to greatest, were giving attention to him, saying, " This man is what is called the Great Power of God." 11 And they were giving him attention because he had for a long time astonished them with his magic arts. 12 But when they believed Philip preaching the good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were being baptized, men and women alike. 13 Even Simon himself believed; and after being baptized, he continued on with Philip, and as he observed signs and great miracles taking place, he was constantly amazed.
14 Now when the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent them Peter and John, 15 who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit. 16 For He had not yet fallen upon any of them; they had simply been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then they began laying their hands on them, and they were receiving the Holy Spirit. 18 Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was bestowed through the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money, 19 saying, "Give this authority to me as well, so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit." 20 But Peter said to him, "May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money! 21 "You have no part or portion in this matter, for your heart is not right before God. 22 "Therefore repent of this wickedness of yours, and pray the Lord that, if possible, the intention of your heart may be forgiven you. 23 "For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and in the bondage of iniquity." 24 But Simon answered and said, " Pray to the Lord for me yourselves, so that nothing of what you have said may come upon me."
NASU
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