The Scramble for the Head Table
I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who
loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not. 3 John 1:9

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At one of the entrances to a festivity at a local church, a sign had been taped to the door, "VIP ENTRANCE." For an event put on by the church, isn’t the implication spine tingling? Who would use that entrance? Do we recognize "dignitaries," "VIPs" in our communities of worship as this hastily affixed sign would appear to indicate? Perhaps the question is should we recognize dignitaries, person’s of distinction since the practice is widespread. Who might they be of such stature as to be so far above other communicants as to warrant a special entrance? Once inside, using the "commoners" entrance, there were VIP tables at the choice spots at the front of the room. What dignitaries would sit there? This is a double-edged dilemma. First, should there be distinctions and preferential treatment within the Christian community. Second, if the "church" chooses to recognize such among us. Should those so selected accept the preferential treatment? Such incongruity in the House of our LORD.

John wrote about a Christian in 3 John 1:9 called Diotrephes. He would be one to seek the VIP door and the head table. From what is said of him, he was full of pride and ambition. Adam Clarke’s Commentary suggest "he magnified himself in his office; he loved such eminence, and behaved himself haughtily in it." Although what "office," if any, he may have held is uncertain, he dearly loved to bask in the limelight. He is not alone with his ambition. Remember the "mother of Zebedee’s sons" (Matthew 20:20-28) asking that they sit at His right and left in heaven? Then there is the account in the Gospel of Mark of Jesus’ disciples getting into an argument over who was the greatest among them (Mark 9:34)?

How often do we have "VIP" accommodations in our congregations? Favoritism, how common is it? Distinguished men and women who, because of their "service," giving or "station in life" afforded preferential treatment in the Body of Christ. Should that be? Should they have special seating, private audiences with the pastor, designated parking spaces for Sunday morning? Do we afford such special treatment to our pastors and other "ranking" church officials? According to the Word, should this be happening? This desire for preeminence isn’t new, it is as old as the race. Recognizing that does not mean it should be encouraged or condoned. But, what if a benefactor expects such preferential treatment? Should it be afforded recognizing that if we don’t a substantial gift to the ministry might be forfeited?

This is what James wrote on the subject, But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors. That’s found in James 2:9, but Paul wrote essentially the same thing in Romans 2:11, For there is no respect of persons with God as he did on numerous occasions as in Ephesians 6:9, neither is there respect of persons with him. And, if that is not sufficient, read the words of Jude, These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men's persons in admiration because of advantage (Jude 16). Of this passage from Jude, John Gill’s Exposition of the Bible writes that because of advantage means, "giving flattering titles to men of wealth and riches, for the sake of their money" – sound familiar?

Should the gift to the ministry be forfeited? Of course, what other conclusion could one possible come to in light of Scriptures? Jude, as you well know, wrote about the apostasy that had crept (roared) into the church. Yes even in his day. And what Jude wrote about Dr. Macknight described as "merchants of souls." They walk through the VIP entrance and entice others to follow with such tactics as Peter writes about, And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you (2 Peter 2:3) and Paul in 1 Timothy 6:5, useless wrangling of men of corrupt minds and destitute of the thruth who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. Feed the flock of God which is among you, we are told in 1 Peter 5:2, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind. Lead by example, he is telling the leaders of the "church." But it is they who regard their office as justification for using the "VIP Entrance" and as a means of material gain for themselves. If this is the example they set, little wonder the congregation willingly follows and madly scrambles for recognition.

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Faith/Works - A New Strategy
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Faith without works is dead James 2:20/Not works lest any man should boast Ephesians 2:9

The debate has been waged for centuries, is salvation based on faith as the Calvinists contend or works such as the disciples of John Wesley argue? But, increasingly, theologians are coming to the conclusion that these views are less diverse than previously thought and more two facets of the same thing. Without works, as James records, faith is dead, but without faith works are barren. Should this be the case, then a new strategy is in order to assist Christians on their faith/works journey. It's not enough to identify the purposes or write a mission statement to be effective, congregations must have an intentional process for their members to grow spiritually. And that process must culminate in spiritual growth transitioning from saving faith into spiritual works. If it ever was, it can no long be acceptable for Christians to live a spiritually vegetative life of attending "church" on a more or less regular basis and taking up where they left off once outside the "sanctuary" doors.

This new strategy must help churchgoers identify what is necessary for them to advance along the "Faith/Works Continuum." Rather than "spinning their wheels" in useless, pointless, even hazardous pursuits, (e.g. pew warming) a "faith/works paradigm," would allow them to focus upon what will produce genuine spiritual growth. A F/W Strategy should be based on two essential beliefs: 1) People commit to behavior that is meaningful. 2) People are nurtured best when they have the opportunity for self-discovery and learning rather than being shown and taught.

Too often, the duties and responsibilities we "give" parishioners fit into the "ministry of tables" described in Acts 6:2-3, leaving the "ministry of the word" to the paid "professionals." Yet, if we are equally essential parts of the same body, if all our Spiritual Gifts are essential, it seems strange that there are so many with gifts for ministering to tables and so few capable of ministering the word. It is almost unseemly, unscriptural, to attach such overwhelming importance, prestige and money to the one "ministry" and so little to the other. Little wonder that, although we find many willing hands to wait upon tables, these same willing souls feel themselves unqualified to assume responsibilities in the "ministry of the word" should the "professionals" discover value in making such overtures. That is all they have been given, that is what they have been taught they are capable of doing that is the example they see in their churches.

Most "lay people," as we are called, see evangelism as part of the "ministry of the word." Therefore the edict – Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature (Mark 16:15) is directed toward those calling themselves "pastors" and proclaiming to be qualified to preach the word based their "professional qualifications." What more are "missionaries" than those with "overseas pastorates?" Is "preaching" anything more than standing in front of mass audiences, reading and lecturing on the word? That’s the contemporary paradigm. Regardless of whatever else "pastors" may claim their intent to be they are universally unwilling to share their pulpit with "average parishioners." More than anything else, this disassociation of "meaningful" ministry and the "laity" may be responsible for the feeling of exclusion, the lack of ownership and the absence of application of Christian principles in our daily lives.

There is a point here that should not be overlooked. It has to do with "giving" people ministerial assignments. In much the same way that people can’t be given self-respect, it is doubtful they can be "given" such assignments. It has to do with a sense of "ownership" that no one can "give" to another. Scripturally, it seems difficult to justify such giving of duties and responsibilities by anyone other than the Holy Spirit. It almost seems as though such activities usurp His role in the spiritual lives of believers. Whatever the gift, isn’t it He, rather than a "gifts inventory" who assigns them and makes them know? Should no the church, therefore, make every effort, provide every opportunity for their expression? Do we believe that, For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say (Luke 12:12) or For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you (Matthew 10:20)? Do we believe that we are given another comforter (John 14:16)? Then surely the new strategy for the church should reflect that teaching rather than relying upon the wisdom, doctrines and teaching of men.

For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works. Matthew 16:27

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Be Still
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Be still, and know that I am God: Psalm 46:10

Barnes’ Notes suggests the word translated in this passage as "Be still" is "raapaah." That essentially means to relax, to stop struggling so much, to leave matters to God, don’t’ be anxious. As the Egyptians chased the fleeing Israelis, Moses said, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD (Execial 14:13) suggesting that "there was to be a calm, confidence, and a trustful state of mind in view of the displays of the divine presence and power." We wouldn’t want to carry the suggestion to the extreme of total inaction, there has been too much of that in the Christian community without encouraging more. However, the American psyche tends to require us to be in a constant state of action to the point of panic. We are encouraged to step out of our "tranquility regions" and find newer and bigger challenges. The implied paradigm seems to suggest the bigger the challenge, the more the opposition, the more the dream-goal is from God. A suggestion bound to resonate with success driven American congregations. But without any discussion of the nature of the goal or the struggles encountered, can we really be so certain, however tempting the paradigm to American palates, that it is God’s plan for our lives or that He has anything at all to do with it? He does have a plan for us, He has know us before we were born, but does that translate into our dynamic action leading to bigger, better and more powerful? Isn’t there something in the formula for God’s plan for us to be found in Scriptures? Is it suggested there that we take charge and move into newer, bigger, better "zones?" What about "Bloom where you are planted?"

It is even more troublesome when these dream-peddlers offer little incentive to listen to the "still small voice" inside of us. So many of those dream-followers are troubled over the uncertainity of the direction their lives are taking. They don’t seem to know about the urgings of the Holy Spirit. Nor do they profess a personal relationship with Him and through Him with Jesus the Christ and through Him to an understanding of the Lord God Almighty. Their Christian walk is almost the opposite of the words found in 1 Kings19:12 and after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire; and after the fire a still small voice. Like tornado chasers they search Him out in turmoil and upheaval as though He were in the midst of chaos instead of the still small voice. They are too busy to hear Him. They are too anxious to notice Him. Ever onward and upward – the Christian version of the rags to riches dream.

Jesus went virtually unrecognized because He did not come charging onto the set dressed as a knight in shining armor mounted on a great white stallion slaying the dragons of evil with His mighty sword although He could. He did not throw off the yoke of Roman rule. He did not meld together the broken Northern and Southern Kingdoms into a united Israel once again. He did not consecrate the Temple and restore the Ark and sacred elements lost in Israel’s rebellion anymore than He endorsed the reigning priesthood. He could have done all of these things, instead, He said all was within the hearts of believers rather than in the swords of avenging armies. As our teacher, what was the dream He proposed, And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: Neither shall they say, Lo here! Or, lo there! For, behold, the kingdom of God is within you (Luke 17:20-21). His Kingdom is spiritual rather than temporal, as should be our ambition. He portrayed the life of a humble servant not wandering far from His hometown. He chose death as a traitorous criminal instead of the royal life of our High Priest. Demanding no sacrifice, He offered His life instead. In His quiet, unassuming way, He confounded the wise, shamed the powerful and transformed the world. What better "dream giver" could we possibly follow than that "still small voice" from within moving us to glorify His Father in Heaven? Was it a dream He offered us or a cross? If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. Luke 9 23

We may be confident in what God said, I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth (Psalm 46:10). We may also be confident that, if we stop our frantic efforts to dictate to, wrest control from and, instead, take time to listen," he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ (Philippians 1:6). Amen.

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And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you. Exodus 3:14

What a wonderful and enlightening conversation God was having with Moses that is recorded in this chapter of Exodus. How very revealing it is about the "self-image" of both. God with great assurance was, in no uncertain, unmistakable terms informing Moses of His identity. Look at Moses’ in contrast, And Moses said unto God, Who am I, that I should go unto Pharaoh, and that I should bring forth the children of Israel out of Egypt? (Exodus 3:11) Just as certain as God knew His identity, Moses was sure he did not know his. What is revealing is captured by John Wesley’s comments on verse 14. In part, he writes, "he is self - existent; he has his being of himself, and has no dependence upon any other." Moses didn’t have a clue who he was.

If most of us pose the question to our selves Moses’ asked of God, "Who am i" (By the way, "i" is intentionally lower case which drives MS Word insane!) we give some typical, dare we say predictable, responses. "I am a daughter/son, husband/wife, mother/father." "I am --- and we give our surname indicating our inclusion in a genealogy. Quite aside, have you noticed the current craze in trying to trace one’s "family tree?" Sadly, orphans seem to suffer, as do adopted children, a terrible sense of loss of identity because they don’t know what their "roots" are.

Are we anything without a job? Most Americans dread the loss of job because it means a loss of an important part of who they are. Without a "job," we feel we have no worth and society will certainly reinforce that opinion. Who we are is tied up in the neighborhood and the house in which we live; the car (SUVs) we drive; the clothes we wear; the colleges we attended and the degrees attained. If you hadn’t noticed, the "identification" with "Superstars," whether they are television/movie actors, sports figures, politician/business figures or even religious leaders provides this sense of identity and meaningfulness to the lives of so many. Idol worship is a simple case of "reflected glory." We are hoping some of their "glory" will rub of on us.

When you’re introducing your self, who do you say or when others are introducing you who do they say you are? Invariably, you and others will define you by your social position, your social status. Isn’t part of your introduced your place of employment and job title as well as the clubs to which you belong, the church you attend. We are, like Moses, totally dependent upon the value others place upon us. He was essentially saying that he had no credentials, no recognizable standing in that community that would cause others to stand up and take notice of what he said – besides, he stuttered. Years ago, a prominent Sociologist described this dependence on others for our sense of self this way, "I am what you think I am." He called that the "Social Self." How very sad; how terribly un-Christian.

We are the very image of God! Isn’t that true? God created man in his own image (Genesis 1:27) As Jamieson, Fausset, Brown point out, "Not meaning in the erect form or features of man, not in his intellect, for the devil and his angels are, in this respect, far superior; not in his immortality, for he has not, like God, a past as well as a future eternity of being; but in the moral dispositions of his soul, commonly called original righteousness." But, the "self" we should love is not "of the flesh," rather it is this self designed by the Lord God Almighty. Our identity, sense of meaningfulness and worth must depend on "man’s union and communion with God, or divine communications and influences of God's Spirit ." (Andrew Mitchell). Many times throughout his letters Paul tells us that we are the sons (and daughters) of the living God (Romans 8:14, 9:26 and Galatians 3:26 for example). Having been convinced of God’s love for him, Moses set about doing his ministry. Perhaps we should lose the self grounded in the flesh and find the self grounded in the family of God. Then when questioned about ourselves we may know with great confidence, "I am a child of the Living God." That identity cannot be lost; it is eternal.

Neither can they die any more: for they are equal unto the angels; and are the children of God, being the children of the resurrection. Luke 20:36
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The Apostles, who were they? In most versions of the Bible, the word for "apostle" (apostolos) is translated as "missionary." The words "mission," "missionary" are used instead of "apostle" only in The Living Bible. It is difficult to know what Jesus intended, if He even used the word, because He did not speak in Hebrew, Greek or Latin. Some Biblical scholars believe the Greek "apostolos," signifying a "delegate or representative of the one sending him," is the closest intended meaning. This interpretation seems appropriate in passages such as the above from Luke. The first place "apostolos" is used in Matthew 10:2. Having named them, he set them on a missionary journey (Matthew 10:5-23).

Although the question of when they were saved may seem imbecilic, there are differences of opinion on the matter. Some theologians suggest they were saved when Jesus called them apart. Others believe it took place somewhere around the midpoint of His ministry. After the crucifixion, the resurrection and after His ascension are times also suggested. Much of the discussion centers upon their expressed utterances as an indication of their understanding who He was and what His mission was. Looking at some of these, one can see the concern. For example, it was only Peter under the influence of the Holy Spirit, who recognized Christ’s true identity (Matthew 16:16-17). During His ministry, the others seemed clueless. Even Peter suffered a relapse denying his Master with a curse (Mark 14:68-72). With the exception of John, none of them hung around for His crucifixion (John 19:25-26, Matthew 26:56) or burial. Evidently, none believed He would rise again. Even after the overwhelming evidence of the empty tomb, only John was convinced (John 20:8). The rest had to be instructed by our risen Lord (Luke 24:46). After His resurrection, Jesus appeared to Peter, the "sons of Zebedee," James and John, and other disciples on the shore of the sea of Tiberias, and Peter said, I go a fishing. They say unto him, We also go with thee John 21:3.

In selecting the twelve, was Jesus singling out these few to be an elite class within the church? That is how most seem to treat His words. There were many disciples from whom He selected twelve. In Luke 6:17, the number of disciples is either described as a " great crowd" or "multitude." If we skip forward to the book of Acts, the eleven had assumed the authority of an aristocracy. In chapter 6, verse 3 for example they were appointing deacons, Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom whom we may appoint over this business. The business was "waiting on tables" (Acts 6:2). Their behavior surrounding the events involving Ananas and Sapphira also suggest they regarded themselves above and apart from other of the congregation. Remember? They were collecting the proceeds from the believers’ sale of homes and land. More correctly the People of the Way were putting those proceeds at the apostles’ feet (Acts 4:35). Ananas and Sapphira cheated and Peter pronounced a sentence of death on the pair. Was it then a "badge of honor," a "peculiar privilege as most today would like to think? Did it designate an "inner circle?" There is little to indicate that this was the case any more than it implied a church official although several seemed i to regard themselves as both. Such claims are contradicted by Paul’s ministry

It is just as likely that He was saying something about spiritual growth. Adam Clarke’s Commentary suggest "that men must be first taught of God before they be sent of God. Jesus Christ never made an apostle of any man who was not first his disciple." Then, does the title "Apostle" signify graduation? Perhaps not as much as growth. Matthew Henry’s Commentary also suggests the title was an indication of spiritual maturity, "Christ taught his disciples before he sent them forth" and cites Matthew 5:2 as evidence.

We must remember the "Great Commission" given to these men was not to build churches, establish a priesthood or even organize congregations. Rather it was to Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. (Mark 16:15) Of the many followers, He selected these men as the best qualified, not omnipotent, or all-knowing and certainly without their frailties, just the best qualified. The evidence is overwhelming that they could not "walk on water," either literally or figuratively. Let us therefore revere them for what they were and, while recognizing their unique place, not raise them above and beyond their own limitations. They were to be missionaries, evangelists, teachers, not potentates.

And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures Luke 24:45

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And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye,
but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Matthew 7:3

Not long ago, an investment banker was walking down the street muttering out loud but to himself about some financial decisions he had to make. A bum sitting on the curb overheard this singular conversation as he passed by, got up and walked along with him. After listening a few minutes, the tramp offered his advice whereupon the banker stopped in his tracks in amazement, thanked the bum and went immediately to his office to implement the suggestions made. Well, as you might have guessed, it was (pun intended) "bum advice."

We knew that. The story is only mildly entertaining and not in the least realistic. Who, after all, to say nothing of a wise investment banker, would take financial advice from one who clearly showed no evidence of his expertise. While we might not hold a surgeon to the requirement that he personally must have gone through the procedure he intends for us, most often we do take into consideration whether the advice-giver has tried his own medicine. One might look askance at a divorced person giving advice on how to have a successful marriage just as listening to the financial advice of a bum. We can think of dozens of instances in which we would not take a person’s advice because they do not manifest the guidance he is giving in his own life. We’d hardly take a drunk’s recommendations on how to stay sober or a thief’s discourse on honesty. Actually, the drunk might have some very good suggestions if he could stay sober long enough to give them; as might the thief on how to protect our possessions. It is just possible that the divorced person’s recommendations on how to stay married are quite sound. However, most of us would not be inclined to listen to any such guidance.

That’s all James is trying to say in that oft disputed passage, faith without works is dead (James 2:26). How seriously should someone take the "advice" of a Christian and accept salvation when there is no telling him from anyone else? Isn’t that a reasonable question? What did Jesus mean when He said, Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven (Matthew 5:16)? Now, notice this is not His brother speaking, this is He whose life was the very epitome of everything He said we should strive to become. If He is not talking about what we are to be, why does He tell us to let our light shine? Are we to go around holding up a candle or flashlight or become a firefly twinkling on a springtime evening? Not at all, He is rather explicit on what that "light" in our lives is to be. Those "good works" are those things that glorify God – the goal, the dream, the ultimate desire, the focus of every Christian’s life. Isn’t that right?

Stay with the story of the banker and the bum just a little longer. Who knows what advice the bum offered the banker. It must have been something he did not find objectionable. Maybe it was what he really wanted to do since he straightaway set about to see it implemented. Maybe it was what he wanted to hear and do. The consequence was disastrous, but he took the advice. Why did the bum even bother? Is it possible he was expecting a handsome tip from this well-dressed Wall Street tycoon? What ever, it was still bad advice and the banker lost his fortune. The bum had nothing to lose because he had already.

How often are we just like the Wall Street money-grubber listening to what we want to hear, heeding the advice of soothsayers telling us to dream big dreams and grab hold of the promises of all that would make us comfortable? How much are we just like the bum showing none of the light or the works to the glory of God in our lives? Like those that passed the stranger by, do we also refuse the burden of the Cross (Matthew 16:24)? He does say His burden is light (Matthew 11:30) but it is a burden all the same. If our lives are not a reflection of God’s love, if we are indistinguishable from the unbeliever, who might listen to our words intended to entice someone into His fold? How much more likely is it that they, unlike the banker will simply dismiss us as irrelevant or worse – hypocritical? On the Cross, He said, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots (Luke 23:34). Did He have us in mind? When we pray our "gimmie-prayers" are we parting His raiment, casting lot? Forgive us we pray.

Amen.

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and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen Matthew 28:20

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Many years ago (1955) Dr. Robert Lindner wrote a book about the practice of psychotherapy to which he gave the title of The Fifty Minute Hour. Fifty minutes is the standard allotted time for a therapy session. Therapists are coached on not going beyond that amount of time, regardless of what may be transpiring in the session. Dire consequence, "transference neuroses" and, heaven forbid, "counter transference" can result. So for fifty minutes, if the price is right, the therapist is your attentive best friend. Those minutes filled with deeply insightful comments such as "what I hear you saying" are intended to demonstrate to the patient that Doctor is listening to and empathizing with you. He/she is unconditionally your best, maybe only, friend – until the clock runs out. Therapists are also carefully schooled on how to end the therapy session on time without appearing to turn off the deeply intimate/personal relationship as one would a water faucet. The door is left open; a warm, invitation is left open, not too wide, for the patient to return next week for another fifty minute session with his/her very best friend in the whole wide world.

As the significance of religion in European cultures declined, the various schools of psychotherapy gradually emerged as a new generation of "father confessors." Although much maligned for his ideas (particularly of human sexuality – ergo "polymorphous perverse") Sigmund Freud’s view of humanity is not that much different from Christian thought. The "Id," for example represented uncontrollable, base human nature (one might even say "evil") and the "Super Ego" he described as the "moral arm of personality." Whatever their persuasion, these emerging schools were little more than an "enlightened, rational priesthood." Most ply their trade by encouraging patients (sinner) to "confess" through establishing fifty-minute paid friendships with their secular priests. "Resistance," refusing to admit a problem is a cardinal sin.

Today, the "worm" seems to be in the process of ever so gradually turning. No, no psychotherapists aren’t dramatically changing anymore than their ill-fated religious counterparts. Indeed, if anything, an alliance (holy or otherwise) has emerged. Every self-respecting "church" of any size is bound to have a counseling center or department. At the least, the newly anointed will have received Christian Counseling instruction in seminary. What is changing or has become so blatantly obvious as not to be something we can ignore is the average Christian layperson’s tendency to make appointments with God. We "pencil Him in;" "set aside time for Him" in our busy schedule. A time is set aside for prayer – many like the mornings before the crush of daily activities assume center stage. As many set aside a place for those daily devotionals – a sanctuary. Of course, there is a crush of "tools" we may purchase to help us with these deeply personal moments with the Lord God Almighty – we’re encouraged to "journal" those special and significant moments with Him lest we, somehow forget. Of course our lives are busy. Certainly we are overwhelmed with things to do. Clearly our lives in this 21^st Century are fragmented. Besides why shouldn’t we set aside special time for prayer in our favorite spot? Nothing – perhaps. Isn’t this just good time management?

The last is a "loaded question." It is good management. We’re attempting to manage God. Just like the therapist, we can’t become too involved. He can’t be allowed to take up too much of our valuable time – time needed for other things such as job and career opportunities, the "family," sports, leisure and recreation and – oh yes, church. He’s in a book on a shelf or the coffee table to be taken down, picked up and read; then returned until next time - emergencies not withstanding. Read what Paul wrote to one congregation and see if you think he would agree with our "time management attempts with God, Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the Spirit. (1 Thessalonians 5: 16-20) The words he uses, "evermore," without ceasing," "In everything," "Quench not," do they really fit in with the concept of our having an appointment time for God? "I’ll have to remember to rejoice in my quiet time with Him in the morning." "Don’t bother me just now H.S. I’ve got some important things to get finished this afternoon." Just what we need to fit in with our 10% oblation, a fifty-minute God.

Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee. Revelation 3:3

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AND MAKE DISCIPLES
Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations,
baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Matthew 28:19
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What is a "disciple?" During Jesus’ earthly ministry, how many were there? What’s the difference between a "disciple" and an "apostle?" In, Matthew 10:1 we read, And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples. Then, were there just twelve? Just one verse later, Matthew names these twelve men only now, he calls them "apostles." That same restrictive use of the term is repeated in 11:1 and 12:1 – he seemed to be on a roll. Understandably, therefore, we tend to isolate "discipleship" to just the twelve. The disciple sometimes called the "Procrastinating" or "Entangled Disciple" in Matthew 8:21 was not of the twelve, so there must have been more. Further complicating the matter, Nelson’s Bible Dictionary states, "In general, apostles refers to a small, inner group of Jesus’ followers; disciples refers to a larger group of Jesus’ followers."

There is consensus, however, whether referring to the twelve or to a larger group that a disciple is a learner; a student. From the Latin, "discipulus" it means a "scholar." It means the pupil of someone implying that they accept and practice the teachings of his master. Coincidentally, it is the only name for His followers found in the Gospels. It is also interesting that the King James Version records the passage as saying, Go ye therefore, and teach all nations. While the difference might be somewhat disconcerting at first, it can be accommodated because teaching is the giving side of disciple the receiving side. Today, with increasing frequency among Christians, we hear the phrase "discipling" instead of "teaching." Nonetheless, someone is to teach and someone is to learn and apply.

Does a disciple "graduate?" Is there a point when we have learned sufficient that we may stop? The University of Durham requires at least seven years of study for a Doctor of Divinity. Most require six or seven years. Is that a good time to end the discipleship process, after six or seven years of study? Paul writes, Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15) When are we a "workman" that does not need to be ashamed? What’s in the curriculum? Isn’t it just as simple as: (1) Loving God; (2) loving our neighbor; (3) loving ourselves? (Matthew 22:37-39) Well, we can’t leave out John 14:6, Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. OK, but isn’t that just about all any Christian really needs to know? That shouldn’t take too long, should it – evening; a weekend?

After all, who really needs to study such subjects as "Systematic Theology," "Christology," "Hermeneutics" (ugh) and "Apologetics?" Who needs to know about "Sanctification," "Justification;" and how really important is it to know about the "History of Christianity." Who are we trying to impress with all of that learning? Truthfully, no one needs to know more than those two passages (Matthew 22:37-39 and John 14:6) until a non-believer asks a question. "Aye, there’s the rub" as Shakespeare might say, for in that dreadful moment, what do we say? "You Christians don’t really believe all that stuff in the Bible as true do you?" "Do you really think the earth was created in seven days?" "If he is a God of love as you claim, how can he condemn everyone else but Christians to go to hell?" "What all about that violence and genocide found in the Old Testament?" "How can God allow little children to suffer so much and die so young?" "Where is he when you need him?" "If you are so good, let me see you perform a miracle." "What’s God like?" "Could you please explain the Trinity to me?" You know, just little questions like these. What are we going to say; "Well, that really doesn’t matter; you don’t need to know about that." Or we can use the old standby; "What’s God like?" "Boy you got me! I don’t have the foggiest idea what you’re talking about."

There isn’t really much we do need to know until we encounter doubt – doubt in our own souls and in the minds of non-believers. Then is when we need to "show ourselves approved." Christ quoted Scriptures to Satan. Prayerfully, we will never have such an encounter. But when doubts and temptations come our way, if we have not been diligent in the Word, how are we going to respond? That "still small voice" whispering in our ear; is it Him or him? "Should I take this job, move to that city, do this, do that?" On what basis am I going to make my decisions? And, when we hear Pastor Teevee Lotabuck telling us it is our sacred duty to support him right now before his air time is cancelled or the bank forecloses on his mega-church by making a tithing vow to his ministry, we’ll just get out our check books and send in our vow. Right?
 

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SEE THEM AS JESUS
Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren,
ye have done it unto me. Matthew 25:40
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RESOLUTION
Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried,
he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him James 1:12
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This is the month when everyone wants to know what our "New Year’s resolutions" were. Then, for the next 11 months they’ll be watching and asking if we’ve kept them. Most will be hoping to feel better when we say "no" because they haven’t kept theirs either. Motivational gurus and even some "psychologists" argue the practice of making these resolutions isn’t harmful and may even have some benefit. At least for a short time (minutes or hours perhaps) they give our lives direction and purpose – ho, ho, purpose driven lives!

The dictionary tells us a "resolution" is a course of action, something we have decided upon, a "firm determination" to do something – or not. Tying such decision making to the "New Year" goes back about 4,000 years to ancient Babylon. Then "New Years" was considered to be the first New Moon after the Vernal Equinox – sometime in March. The Romans used the occasion to honor Janus the Roman god of gates and doors, beginnings and endings. The Greeks used it to celebrate Dionysus, their god of wine. A baby was paraded in a basket to represent his rebirth as the spirit of fertility.

Through the Middle Ages, the Church was against celebrating New Years because of its pagan origins. Then, it was OK but it was celebrated on December 25^th and then moved to March 25^th and called the Annunciation. Yielding to popular cultural pressures, Pope Gregory XIII (1502 – 1585) revised the Julian calendar and moved the celebration to January 1^st complete with the baby. Just to complete the picture, in ancient times noise and fire thought to dispel evil spirits and bring good luck were added. Pope Gregory I suggested "that converting heathens is easier if they are allowed to retain the outward forms of their traditional pagan practices and traditions, while recasting those traditions spiritually towards the one true God instead of to their pagan gods to the end that, whilst some gratifications are outwardly permitted them, they may the more easily consent to the inward consolations of the grace of God". (ref.) Hum, there seems to be a "tradition" in the Christian community of "adjusting" its beliefs and practices to conform to the milieu in which it finds itself – to fit in, to be more acceptable.

On the other hand, what could be more consistent with our Faith than a turning away from our old ways to a better new life - repentance? At least one meaning of repent (Metanoeo) is to "to change one's mind for better, heartily to amend with abhorrence of one's past sins." Jesus said, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel. (Mark 1:15) While this might be a little strong for most New Year’s partygoers, especially the "sin" part, it might be what Pope Gregory had in mind. On second thought, most people seem more intent on finding new and more inventive ways of "sinning" during New Years Eve celebrations. It probably isn’t until the "morning after" that any feeling of regret of the night before or the past year sets in. On such an occasion, we might even contemplate the Gospel message.

Yet, there’s the lingering threat that the original pagan content might overshadow the presumed spiritual focus of New Years and resolutions just as we struggle to keep Christ in Christmas. On the other hand, if there is "Christ in New Years resolutions," they will be identified more closely with worship rather than reveille. Churches will have New Year’s Eve services with attendance very high. The focus of our resolutions will be "sacred" rather than "secular," and we will solemnize them in a dedication church service? Does any of this sound like the New Years celebrations we know or the resolutions we actually make? If not, then perhaps all we are doing is honoring the Roman’s Janus and the Greek’s Dionysus while setting a very poor example for the non-Christians in our midst. If it walks and talks like a duck, how are we to tell it from a duck? Supposed Christians who act and talk like non-Christians may have salvation wrapped up but, what kind of an example are they setting for those around them?

This year, let us resolve to forget the gifts under the tree and remember the gift of the Cross. Let our resolutions reflect Christ instead of greed in our lives. Let them mirror our trust and confidence in Him rather than in ourselves. Then, perhaps instead of imitating them, our resolutions and celebrations will make it easier to convert "heathens" as Pope Gregory I said.

And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge 2 Peter 1:5

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Its Never Too Sunday

To Make Money

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Is It "Rat Christianity" or We Do That Because It Is Right

Almost a century ago a "Rat" Psychologist, B.F. Skinner, (called that because of his extensive use of rats in his experiments) used a method of training that rewarded animals when they acted according to his requirements and punishment when they didn’t. From what we hear from the pulpit these days, it sounds like Skinner stole his idea from God – the first and greatest conditioner – "do what I demand and the sky’s the limit. Disobey me and hell’s the pit." Skinner used what he called an operant conditioning apparatus. Usually a rat was the "victim" in this OCA cage. When a clue was given, the rat was to go to the food dispenser and get his food reward. If he didn’t or went at the wrong time, he got zapped. Just one other note: The rats didn’t know what they were doing. They were just trying to avoid the punishment and get the reward. They develop what is termed "superstitious behavior" obsessively-compulsively repeating actions even when they are no longer appropriate. Hum, been in church lately?

In earlier generations, the likes of Jonathan Edwards believed the way to convert what we now call "seekers" was to frighten them into it with such sermons titled, "The Justice of God in the Damnation of Sinners" and "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God." He was fond of making "seekers" uncomfortable with statements like, "It is just with God eternally to cast off and destroy sinners." From "Sinners in the Hands" sermon, he tells us, "There is no want of power in God to cast wicked men into hell at any moment" and "They are already under a sentence of condemnation to hell." His sermons on the topic of damnation were numerous, vivid and very lengthy – no one fell asleep during them. Such were labeled "fire and brimstone" or "hellfire and damnation sermons for obvious reasons.

Today, the pulpits of seeker friendly "Starbucks churches," pummel their audiences numbering in the thousands with the ideas called "Blab It and Grab It," "Name It and Claim It," "Positive Confession" and more." These philosophies are preached by the likes of the likes of Joel Osteen, Kenneth Copeland, Bishop T.D. Jakes, Fred Price and others – each examples of what they preach. These "preachers" have an easy time persuading their listeners that they "deserve everything we can get and more." "The only reason we don’t get/have more is because we aren’t demanding God give us more." According to them, He is anxiously waiting for us to ask so we can be given the desires of our heart. It’s an easy sell. Even those less extreme pulpit pleas for money promising a return on our "investments" are treating us like we had the brains of a rat and a soul to match. Are we really that shallow that we are subject to such obvious bribery?

It isn’t that riches are evil or poverty saintly as much as it is (1) emphasis and (2) motivation. In his greeting to his friend Gainus, John wished him material success compatible with his spiritual "success." He knew Gainus’ soul was "prosperous and in good health and only then, did he wished him worldly success. Even more poignantly John was not setting his friend up for a major donation. He would not insult him with such a coarse ploy. He knew and recognized Gainus’ support for the testimony of Demetrius as well as Gainus’ love for the brethren and for strangers. John was rightly recognizing that Gainus was hospitable and courteous as well as a man of integrity and sincerity (v.5). This had left an indelible impression upon those with whom he came in contact (v.6). As it should be. We are to be known by such love. It worked because John had heard about it in Ephesus where he was living – some distance away.

Why was it that Gainus acted as he did? It could have been with the expectation of "treasures in heaven." Who hasn’t heard a "pastor" tell his congregation they "can’t take it with them but they can send it on ahead?" Maybe he believed following Jesus meant he’d drive a golden chariot rather than walk barefooted – live in a palace than a tent. Isn’t that what preacher’s mean when they tell us, "you can’t outspend God? He could have been looking for the esteem of his fellow church members or even better, John’s recognition and praise. Aren’t we told to respect and hold in high regard those who are over us because of their work (1Thes. 5:12-13 NIV)? Or is it remotely possible that unlike the mentality that believes in the Skinnerian principle that behavior is shaped by rewards and punishment instead of it being the right thing to do? Having found Christ, doesn’t He become the Lord and Master of our lives? Our rudder?

Now I pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we should appear approved, but that ye should do that which is honest, though we be as reprobates. For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth. For we are glad, when we are weak, and ye are strong: and this also we wish, even your perfection. 2 Corinthians 13:7-9
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Commit to the Lord

Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established. Proverbs 16:3
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Just imagine a "seeker" hearing lyrics to a song based on this Proverbs thinking, "That’s great! Whatever it is I am doing, the Lord is going to bless." Wow, I’ll join now before the taxman cometh. Truly, the likelihood of a seeker reading this passage and thinking that all they have to do is ask God’s blessing on what they are doing or planning they’ll get away with is pretty good. The shortened version of this perversion is "God is on my side" instead of we are on God’s side as it should be. Come to think of it, many church members, whole churches, entire denominations seem to think this verse and several others like it is a carte blanche, anything goes because God is on my side mentality. As a matter of fact, The Message almost forces one to that conclusion, "Put God in charge of your work, then what you've planned will take place." Doesn’t that sound like if I’ve planned a bank robbery and I put God in charge (whether He wants to be or not) my bank robbery will take place? The New Century "version" is even more blatant, "Depend on the Lord in whatever you do, and your plans will succeed." Note: "whatever you do" and "succeed." So now my bank robbery will not only take place but it will be a success. Wow, such a deal! Let’s jump on the bandwagon! The membership of churches where such is preached should mushroom in attendance.

Is it perverse to believe that God will grant our fervent wishes carte blanche – whatever? Jesus, in the Gospel of Matthew says, And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive. In Mark, it is even more emphatically stated by Jesus, Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them. Jesus also said, And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. Are we to conclude that if one earnestly desires and firmly believes that his prayers to become the wealthiest, most powerful, most famous person in the world will be answered? The Biblical evidence for this conclusion seems overwhelming.

The test isn’t whether God has the ability or the power to grant anything for which we might pray, but what it is we submit so earnestly in prayer – aye there’s the rub. The Jews prayed earnestly for a King, and they got one – actually they got three. That was the beginning of the end of Israel. Maybe the lesson in all of this is to be careful what we pray for because we might get it. The Jews got their king thinking it would make them happy. God was certainly capable of granting their earnest desires. He did and it destroyed their nation. What they prayed for revealed what and who they truly valued and worshipped. They wanted to be like all other nations. In so doing, they rejected God. Prayer, you see, is an "inkblot" test of our deepest desires and yearnings. They’ll show up the fig tree every time. So we get down on our knees and so earnestly pray for all that the world admires that we sweat as if it were drops of blood, are we not worshipping calves of gold? Might not such earnest prayers be granted? Yes, as were Israel it’s kings

The key to understanding Proverbs 16:3 is in the first part of the verse – "commit to the Lord" in whatever version is read. As one author states, "put God in charge of your work" or as another writes, "Rely on God for success to your lawful purposes." "Lawful" here means much more than what is legal but, more importantly, what is moral. First, we must see to it that the things we are doing are what the Lord would have us do, not the other way around. The Hebrew word translated into the English "work" does mean business pursuits and enterprises. It also means "deeds," "things done," "acts," "undertakings," "achievements," and even "works of deliverance and judgment." In today’s English we would say something like, "commit all that you are and all that you do to the Lord." Can we really think when Jesus said, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father, He was meaning a life like that of a Donald Trump or Paris Hilton?

In Proverbs 22:1, we are told, A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold. Is it possible in the intervening chapters (16-22) God changed His mind on the wisdom He gave Solomon to dispense? Unless we are of a mind to believe the Bible contradicts itself we’d need to explain this from the Book of Job 5:8 I would seek unto God, and unto God would I commit my cause, and what Jesus said in Matt 6:25 Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. What are we to do instead, seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; Matt 6:33 ("Seek," pursue, try, endeavor, endeavor, go after, attempt, run after)

In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:6
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