OPPORTUNISTS~CHRISTOTUNITST (Counterfeit Faith)

Good-Friday-Resurrectionists

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Verily, verily, I say unto you, 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. John 14:12

There are "Prosperity Christians" and "Seeker Churches." As the term suggests, "Prosperity Christianity" emphasizes the blessings of being Christian and channel the proclamations and promises of the Scriptures into earthly materialism. Overlooking the proclamations that true Christians should prepare for hardship and persecution, these practitioners declare to receptive audiences that they should seize what is rightfully theirs as heirs to the Throne of God and settle for nothing less than the best. "Seeker Churches" attempt to use the facilities of the institutional church for evangelism thus reducing any possible worship, praise or learning experiences therein to the lowest common denominator – the unbeliever who may happen into their midst. In spite of the history of the New Testament church as a fellowship of believers and warnings against being unequally yoked, seeker churches use "milk and honey" messages so as not to offend or frighten away non-Christians. Such gives new meaning to the idea of "preaching to the choir." These are theologies of omission – they are missing or overlooking critical ingredients in the Gospel message.

But, most Christians and most churches could best be described as "Good-Friday-Resurrectionists." Even those who preach prosperity and cater to seekers usually present this message. They, rightly, emphasize the sacrifice Jesus made for our sins on The Cross. As the consummate scapegoat, He has paid for all our sins leaving us only to accept the magnanimous gift – if even that. Just as correctly, they preach the meaning of Christ’s Resurrection as a declaration of the general resurrection of all people. They may even enter into the disturbing waters of God dispensing justice with the unbelievers condemned and the righteous saved. Hence the central importance of baptism as a symbolic reenactment of this "trilogy" of death-burial-resurrection. Putting all their eggs in one basket, they raise the somewhat disturbing statement, "if Christ be not risen, our faith is vain" (1 Corinthians 15:14). Something is missing.

So far, our seeker becomes a Christian with the understanding that my sins are forgiven and that my name is "written in the Lamb’s Book of Life" meaning I am going to spend eternity in heaven. Quite true, but the story is incomplete. It is all "I-Me" centered – what I am going to inherit, what has been done for me. There is another chapter in the book – what I am capable of doing- even what is expected. It is rarely spoken of, rarely heard. It is what we might call "Ascension Christian Theology." A theology of commission – empowerment. This theology centers on Christ’s last act of His earthly ministry –leaving us.

Much like the disciples who, at the moment of His ascension asked if He was about to restore Israel to its rightful place (Acts 1:6) contemporary Christianity sees itself in the same light – waiting for the Lord (or the vicar/pastor) to do everything for them. In soliciting funds for his program, one television priest states this position rather succinctly, "Send me your money, your cars, your boats and I will save souls." Jesus said He was going to leave us. We have been taught we are little more than expectant vessels passively following the lead of others rather than active instruments in the service of our Master.

Yet, He told us it would be good for us that He did because we would do greater works than He had. That was addressed to us, not the church, the pastor, the minister or even the Pope, but to us. Just a short while after His ascension, this same band of followers would meet in Jerusalem and would, on the Day of Pentecost, receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. In fulfillment of Joel’s prophecy, the Spirit is poured out upon all believers, sons and daughters, young men and old men, men and women (Acts 2:17-18). Peter and John laid their hands upon those who had been baptized in the city of Samaria and they received the Holy Spirit (Acts 8:14-17). As Peter was speaking in Caesarea, the Holy Spirit came upon all who heard his message (Acts 10:44) Jew and Gentile alike. It is He who is the "great equalizer" in "Ascension Christianity." Accordingly He empowers all believers to do the work of the Kingdom. Those gifts we receive from the Spirit are testament of our assigned tasks. Perhaps one may group these gifts into those of speaking and serving (1 Peter 4:11), but to function properly, the body of Christ must possess all of them. In Ascension Christianity" there are no "super stars" or stars for that matter, only servants of the Lord Most High.

For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: Romans 12:4

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Heaven’s "Lend-Lease Program"

"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. Matthew 25:34
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Anyone over the age of 65 will remember hearing about the Lend-Lease Act passed by the Congress of the United States in 1941. Most Americans did not want to get involved in the "internal" conflict taking place in Europe and, indeed, we had declared ourselves neutral. Yet, increasingly we saw Hitler’s Nazi forces swamping country after country. It was becoming clear even to the most ardent pacifist that his boundless taste for conquest would not be satisfied with just Europe and Russia. The solution gave Franklin Roosevelt the power to transfer war supplies, to nations whose defense was considered vital to the defense of the United States without sacrificing our neutrality. It didn’t keep us out of the war, but in so many other respects, it was a huge success.

"All right," you say, "what does that have to do with Christianity let alone Heaven?" Well, first, let’s admit that there is a war going on – all around us. A spiritual war. And most of our actions suggest we would just as soon ignore it and pray it will just go away. Then, perhaps because of our pacifism, we are ill prepared to do battle. We will survive, but the toll on our eternal lives will be enormous. It might be said that our victory is, at least to some degree, only symbolic.

If that sounds like a strange theology, consider Jesus’ admonition to lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:20). What sort of "treasures" could these possibly be, something like "frequent flier miles?" No, it seems more like wealth, "used for doing good is treasure laid up in heaven" according to one source. If we don’t, does heaven have a "skid row?" Paul tells us that all of us will appear before the judgment seat of Christ to answer for what we did in the flesh. One scholar proclaims, "there will be no avoiding this judgment, all ‘must appear.’" (ref.) John Gill goes further in stating that, according to Paul, good works will be presented in the Last Judgment, "as fruits of grace, and as evidences of the truth of faith, which will justify the Judge in proceeding according to what he himself, as a Saviour, has said." (ibid.) And, we are told, "Though salvation be of grace purely, independent of works, the saved may have a greater or less reward, according as he lives to, and labors for, Christ more or less." For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, (Hebrews 6:10). Baker’s Dictionary states, "Salvation is by grace alone, but judgment day registers the verdict on what we have done or failed to do with God's grace. Others tell us that "Christianity deepens the sense of obligation to do right."

Now, why should there be a "heavenly lend-lease?" Let us remember Jesus’ own words, I tell you that on the day of judgment people will have to account for every careless word they speak (Matthew 12:36.) Any questions? There is this amazing statement from the Prophet Isaiah, But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away (Isaiah 64:6). Unless we assume his words are not relevant or that we are a phenomenally unusual exception we might begin praying for someone there in the assembled crowd on Judgment Day with some "good works" to spare and willing to lend them to the rest of us.

But we might be in for a surprise. Some of us, as we approach the Throne of Judgment, thinking ourselves well prepared with good works may wind up filling out loan applications, not to avoid damnation but heavenly "skid row," because of a lack of what separates Christian goats from Christian sheep (ref). What are those works – church attendance, contributing to the building fund, tithing? They might help, but not really. Jesus tells us, 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.) Its all there: all the nations are gathered before Him (v. 32), the sheep and goats are separated (v. 33), the "sheep" inherit the kingdom (v. 34), because they: "fed" the hungry, gave them something to drink and took them in (v. 35), gave them clothes to wear, visited the hospitals and prisons (v.36). It is there to be read – and understood – and obeyed. Amen.

By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. John 13:35

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And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: Matthew 16:19a
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SHOULD A CHURCH GROW? PART II
And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. Mark 16:15
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Part I of "Should a Church Grow" explored such growth for the perspective of the worshipper. It explored the question from the perspective of why a Christian would be enticed to worship and study in a warehouse or stadium sized "church." What about the same question from the perspective of the "pastor?" Is it fair to ask what pastor in his right mind would take on such an awesome responsibility? According to The KJV New Testament Greek Lexicon, "pastor" means two things: First, "a herdsman, esp. a shepherd - in the parable, he to whose care and control others have committed themselves, and whose precepts they follow." Second, it means "the presiding officer, manager, director, of any assembly: so of Christ the Head of the church - of the overseers of the Christian assemblies." As a church gets larger, won’t the pastor go through a metamorphosis from "herdsman," "shepherd" to "director," "overseer?" "But a staff and associate pastors will help with the burden of management." Then the "pastor" becomes more and more a "CEO."

Even in the relatively small churches the number one complaint of "pastors" is "burnout." They complain there is too much to do; too much responsibility. Increased size of the physical plant and the congregation will only increase the burden, not lessen it. Maintaining a facility with a budget of $100 - $200,000 is one thing. A facility of $100,000,000 or more is quite something else. The size/cost factors are exponential. But we’ll have a CFO and a fundraiser. OK, but then the pastor is not the director/overseer of that part of the operation – he will, however, bear the ultimate responsibility. Pastors of moderate sized "churches" find the demand of endless meetings and requests for them to take part in various church activities very time consuming. They complain that it takes away from their ability to "minister" to the "flock" – first definition. As size increases, by the sheer number of people in the congregation, they are increasingly unable to make house visits," hospital visits, visits to nursing homes and extended care facilities. They aren’t able to personally greet congregants after services, let alone know them. They can’t baptize them, conduct their weddings or preside over their funerals. In short, they become less able to be involved in the lives of their flock.

Then why the urgent need to "grow?" Why is the health of a "church" measured by the number of people it crowds into its amphitheater? There is the American value that "bigger is better?’ Is that always true – especially when we are talking about churches? Jesus does tell us to go into all the world and preach the Gospel, but did He mean for us to do it on such a massive scale? We don’t know of any such massive gatherings in the early days. None is recorded in Scripture and there is actually no evidence of any "church buildings" for many hindered years after Jesus’ ascension. So what is the driving force behind aspiring to congregations reaching the size, dimensions and character of a herd? The only reasonable answer must line in fame and recognition. The fame the pastor will claim as his doing. The recognition he will relish as a "super start" in his own right. Imagine the exhilarating experience it must be to stand in the spotlight before throngs of adoring fans hanging on you every word. Imagine the exhilaration of being recognized wherever one goes; called upon to advise heads of state; to relish in Hollywood-like renown. It must be irresistible.

Perhaps fame isn’t the motivation behind so many "pastors" to strive for size. They may be motivated by a genuine, if misguided, desire to "spread the Word." If that is the case, mustn’t one ask what makes them think they are singly so bless with such Spiritual insights and with such a gilded tongue that only they are capable of doing the work of the Kingdom? On occasion, Jesus spoke before throngs of thousands and we must agree that His doing so was, in itself, miraculous because there were no sound systems. His abilities and gifts are surely not to be doubted and just as surely unmatched. His motives were absolutely pure – to honor His Father and give all glory to His Holy Name. Perhaps we should use Jesus’ experiences with the "mega churches of His day." If a pastor can speak the unvarnished Word of God before throngs of tens of thousands without the aid of a PA system, perhaps (just perhaps) he should. Otherwise could it be remotely possible that, in spite of his golden tongued orations his true motivation? Should a church grow? Why, to feed the pastors ego? Isn’t it supposed to be the other way around?

He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep. John 21:16

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The Empty Temple

Where Have All The Christians Gone?

Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? Luke 1
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With the rise of "mega churches" boasting weekend attendance figures in the tens of thousands, and Christian television programs and televised "church" services reaching audiences in the tens of millions, doesn’t one wonder where they all go for the rest of the week? As a matter of fact, where are they even on Sunday? One writer, meeting this apparent criticism of the "church" cites Matthew 9:39, Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest, pointing out that Jesus did not say for the "church" to fill the granaries but that God would send laborers. Therefore, the church has not failed. While tacitly admitting that the "granaries" of Christianity are not full, the writer suggests that this is not a flaw in the "paradigm of the church" that has been in existence for over 1,700 years. Since it is not the "church" at "fault" for such a "poor harvest" in must either be God’s fault or His plan. If it is pointed out that the "church" was not being addressed by Jesus but He was addressing His disciples, he leaves us with the same conclusions – either God’s failure or His plan. Actually, any attempt to explain the "empty granaries of Christianity" would undoubtedly be met with the same response.

Perhaps all well and good if the methods used to "send forth laborers" is correct. It would be, therefore, either God’s problem or His plan. Let’s see if it is His plan for the overwhelming majority of the Human race to go to hell. Is that Scriptural? Is it His plan that even those who embrace the Good News evince little if any difference in how they behave from those who have not. In short, one needs a "scorecard" to know who is and who isn’t. Is that Scriptural?

If we look in the passages just prior to Christ’s plea for prayer, we discover he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Now we must take care even here not to interpret His lament as desiring a "pastor" for them. He, after all, is our Great Shepherd, not the officiant of a local church. Indeed, these people were precisely in the same situation we find ourselves in: (1) Because our minds and souls weary with all the disparate cannons and doctrines taught by our so-called "church leaders." (2) Because rarely do we find "wholesome doctrine" in our churches and, as the "marketing of the church" begins to bear fruit, there will be even less. (3) Because our "pastors," are not strengthening the spiritually sick and diseased, nor seeking to recover those of their "flock" who have strayed. Rather they are more concerned with "feeding " and "caring" for the pecuniary needs of themselves and their "church" rather than the saints in their "charge."

Our writer can get away with his illogic if we uncritically accept the fact that through the "church" workers (missionaries) have been sent into the field. First he wants us to believe the "church," through the centuries is teaching the Truth and preaching the Gospel. Nothing could be further from the Truth. Indeed the flaw in this logic is that the "church" and the congregation are two distinct entities.

Laying responsibility for the inability to distinguish a Christian at home, at work, at play, the "freeways and byways of life" at the feet of God may exonerate the "church" but it certainly does not advance the Kingdom. Where is it written that there is to be a class of vicars distinct from something today called the "laity – "the mass of the people" as distinguished from the professionally "skilled" tradesmen ("merchant, businessman, dealer, merchandiser, trader, trafficker.") Is it an unreasonable question to ask the difference between the priesthood existing at the time of Christ and the one existing today? Is it unreasonable to ask the difference between the hollow, meaningless Temple worship of His time and "church services" today? What about a comparison between the temporary sacrificial system then and the yearly (unless there is a building campaign in progress) sacrificial "tithes" of today? If "workers" go into the field to harvest with a dull and broken scythe, is it fair and reasonable to lay the responsibility for empty granaries and indistinguishable Christens at the feet of Almighty God?

We must remember that God struggled with the "chosen people" for centuries upon centuries. He gave them every opportunity to follow His plan. Yet, in the final analysis, the "granaries of Judaism" were empty. His failure His plan or ours? Did He intend for an entire generation, millions of people, to expire in the desert – for Israel to disappear from the face of the map? Was that His plan? It happened. Is this His plan today that billions should remain unsaved while billions are spent on churches and "Christian Media?"

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ONE HOLY, UNIVERSAL, CATHOLIC CHURCH
And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. John 8:32
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Can one imagine a worse nightmare than such a monstrosity? Picture one man, one "College of Cardinals," one "consistory," one denomination, one church, deciding the doctrine of Christianity – its orthodoxy? Suppose there was no antidote to such madness as Jimmy Jones and his "Jonestown, Guyana. What if there were no counterpoint to Aimee Semple McPherson and her "Angelus Temple?" Not to be excluded from this montage that is the contemporary Christian "scene" is Brigham Young’s "Mormons." The "what-if" consequences of his little band (actually not so little anymore) being in charge of Christian doctrine without any contrast is frightening? But no less than an unchallenged Roman Catholic Church.

We came close to such universalism with the Church. Even after the Protestant Reformation, many vestiges of this kind of religious "parochialism" remains. For example, a priesthood and the principal creeds of the Catholic Church, The Apostles', Athanasian, and the Nicene, all Catholic documents, are to be found as foundational creeds in the "churches of the Reformation." Even when the phraseology of these creeds is somewhat awkward such as, "I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy *catholic church" found in the Apostles’ Creed, is retained necessitating an awkward explanatory note to the effect that, "*The word "catholic" refers not to the Roman Catholic Church, but to the universal church of the Lord Jesus Christ." Roman Catholics reject such interpretation. None more forcefully that Augustine,

"Religious individualism" is, fundamentally incorrect. There is only one Way, one Truth, one Life (John 14:6). There are so many conflicting doctrines being espoused by men, so many diverse "prophets" foretelling of the "last days" and "pointing the way to salvation" that one must be cautious. Jesus warned us many times of their appearance. He is the Truth, not doctrines and liturgies. He is our High Priest and our King eternal. He is the One Holy, the one universal church. It is He who will save the world. A plan devised by man, however well intended cannot even begin to succeed let alone compete with the Way He ordained. To believe such is arrogance. Only He is ex cathedra. Only He is infallible. For a man, any man or council of men, to assume such a mantle is to presume perfection which, in and of its self is heretical. He is, they are presuming to be Christ-like. In like respect, I don’t, you don’t we don’t save souls. He does. Lest we forget, He has no "vicar." In that spirit, we are not, we are, by definition, parochial.

Theologians often speak of "dispensations," what might be called "fashions" in the history of Christianity. Some have even labeled the time in which we are living as the "Dispensation of the Church." It is not. If there is such a thing as a "dispensation," then this must be regarded as the "Dispensation of the Holy Spirit." After all, Jesus, in proclaiming he would not leave His followers alone did not promise them churches, popes, bishops, pastors, preachers or even ministers. He did promise them the Holy Comforter. Wasn’t His arrival to be anticipated? Wasn’t His arrival contingent upon Christ’s departure?

Where is anything written about His making a promise about the arrival of the "church?" Even when taken in the most Scripturally "pure" sense of the word Ekklesia, used by Jesus to Peter, in the 111 times in the New Testament, does not mean the corruption we see today. Where does Jesus promise upon His departure He would send a refurbished priesthood? Only twice is the "office" of priest mentioned; twice the "body" of priests and the four times it is used in Hebrews, it refers to Jesus. Now, Jesus was intimately familiar with the concept. In His pronouncement upon Peter, why didn’t He ordain Peter as the "new high priest" or, for that matter, His disciples as the new "holy priesthood" while He was commissioning the reconstruction of the Temple? Most New Testament references to a "high priest" are found in the Book of Hebrews. Most of them refer to Jesus. What could be more instructive, more revealing than the simple Biblical fact that when the concept of a "holy priesthood" is used in the entire Bible, it is found in the Book of Peter and the reference is to us? This is what Peter says to us: 1Peter 2:5 -Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. 1Peter 2:9 - But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

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Lord I Pray

The Ascension
Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet,
which is from Jerusalem a sabbath day's journey. Acts 1:12

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We are familiar with Jesus’ remaining eleven disciples gathering in what we know as the "upper room." Later, others including His Mom and His brothers joined them. In this place, lots were cast and Matthias was selected to fill Judas’ place (v. 26). Shortly after, on the Day of Pentecost, tongues, like flames of fire that were divided, appeared to them and rested on each one of them (Acts 2:3). But, how familiar are we with where this momentous journey began? They returned to Jerusalem, but from where? Olive groves just short of a mile from town? Were they on a picnic? Luke tells us a little of what was taking place just before they returned from Olivet as recorded in Acts 1:12. The resurrected Jesus had been with them and talked with them about many things. It was then, for example, He instructed them not to leave Jerusalem until they had received the promised gift of the Holy Spirit (v. 4). They had inquired about when He was going to restore of Israel (v. 6) and He basically told them it was none of their business. He commissioned them to be witnesses Jerusalem then Judaea and only then to Samaria and the rest of the world. But, they weren’t to do anything just then. Instead, they were to wait upon the power of the Holy Ghost before they even started to witness in Jerusalem (v. 8). He was empowered in His ministry by the Holy Ghost shouldn’t they be also? Considering how nonplused they were at Olivet, aren’t we thankful for that?

When we get all pumped up with our ministry, our visions and our accomplishments, when we brag about the number of souls we, or our ministry, have saved it would be well for us to remember that these men had been personally tutored by the Master. Yet after three years of relationship with Him, after all the miraculous things they had seen Him do, after His Crucifixion, Resurrection and now, His Ascension, they were essentially clueless. "Are you now gong to restore Israel" – indeed. Such is not a condemnation of His teaching, their intellect or resolve. Rather it is eloquent testimony of how truly incompetent we are without the presence of the Holy Spirit.

Remember in John 16 Jesus told His disciples He was returning to His Father and that this was a good thing? He said, Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you (v. 7). They evidently forgot, because there, in the olive grove, they seemed mystified at His departure. They forgot what, not too long before He said to them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, 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 (John 14:12).

Have we forgotten these words also? They are spoken to our hearts just as surely as they were to those disciples 2,000 years ago. Success to the disciples was the restoration of The Promised Land to its place of rightful prominence. What’s our conception of success - earthly health and wealth? Is that what we aspire to and pray for – self-fulfillment? Is it recognition, fame that we secretly covet – praises from others? What if it is only our salvation – and that of those we love? Is that a worthy life’s ambition? We must have forgotten. Such as these must be the spiritual goals toward which we strive. They must be since we end the significant part of Christ’s earthly ministry with His resurrection.

Rightly we say that, "were it not for His resurrection, all we believe and all we teach would be foolishness." But all of that is what He has done/is doing for us – what we can expect – the "perks" of being a Christian. Here, the sermons seem to stop. As needed, we are reminded of "financial obligations" we presumably have to support the "church" – including church based "missionary" programs. Beyond that our obligations in modern Christianity if they exist, seem unworthy of mention. Yet Jesus did not convert significant numbers of people. He has left that to us – with the help of the Holy Comforter. Let us understand the actual nature of His commission. It is not corporate. Some contend the reason He showed such little concern for corporate structure that awaited His ascension and the arrival of the Holy Spirit. At best, half right. More completely, we must realize it is not His plan. We are to be touched by the Holy Spirit. He is to inhabit our hearts, not the labyrinth of the corporate church. The focus or salvation is on the person, not on a nation. The focus of ministry is personal. Collectively we gather for worship, praise, study and admonition.
 

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The Gospel of Moderation
I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. Revelation 3:15
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We are told by a prominent television minister that, "There does not need to be a conflict between intelligent people who endorse the process of evolution and intelligent Christians who endorse the Holy Scripture's account of creationism in Genesis 1. The key is to avoid extreme positions." That’s what the squabble between creationism and evolution is all about, he contends, extremism to the left and right. After all, says the voice of moderation, Genesis "is meant to be allegoric or figurative." Supposedly, the statement that God created the earth in seven days is only a figure of speech rather than a Biblical fact – moderation. That’s certainly reasonable now isn’t it? Anything in Scriptures we can’t comprehend or take exception to can simply be dismissed as figurative, allegorical, metaphorical. That will prevent a lot of arguments. Clearly, the only intelligent thinkers are the "moderates." "Extremists aren’t very bright.

As to the matter of extremism, one minister writes, "Any time there is an issue; there are those who are the moderates in the middle. There are those who take an extreme position for the right and on the left are the extremists who take a position far to the left. Yes, there are extremists on both the right and the left." Where should Christians fall on this dimension? Without bothering to define "right" or "left," should we be in an "extreme" or "moderate" position? Increasingly, "churches" seem to tend toward the center so as not to "scare off" or offend non-Christians and "seekers." Our preacher in question is proud of the fact that he was taught in college and seminary to be "moderate." Who should be our teacher – college professors?

Pray, pastor, what does this mean? Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is Six hundred threescore and six (Revelation 13:18.) So much for human wisdom and understanding. To "dream the impossible dream" is to believe human reasoning and wisdom can fathom the unfathomable. Yet, we are being encouraged to supplement our ignorance of God’s Plan and His Will with our own understanding perhaps even to the point of setting those aside when we disagree – moderation.

Jesus was an extremist. Remember what He said, No man can serve two masters (Matthew 6:24)? We have here two masters. On the one hand "rational humanism" that rejects things spiritual believes that one’s dignity, worth and self-realization can be achieved through reason. The other "master" is Christianity that rejects such human efforts and, instead relies upon a deep, uncompromising faith and trust in the Lord God Almighty, in His Son, the Holy Spirit and in the Word. One’s dignity, worth and self-realization is only possible through accepting Jesus the Christ as our Lord and Savior – our one true and everlasting friend.

His First Commandment is immodest, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind (Matthew 22:37). Moderation? Who persecutes one who is moderate? Yet, Jesus said, Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you (Matthew 5:11a). Which invites the "blow of the hammer," the "chameleon" or the "nail that stands above the rest?" Five times the Greek word for moderation (epieikes) is used in the KJV of the New Testament. In Philippians 4:5 it speaks of humility and modesty; in 1 Timothy 3:3 it means patience; Titus 3:2 it tells us to be gentle as does James 3:17 and 1 Peter 2:18. Jesus was humble, modest and gentle – the Prince of Peace – but He did not preach a gospel of appeasement and moderation nor was that what He told His disciples to preach. He did tell us to expect the "blow of the hammer." Eight times in the KJV of the Gospels Jesus is recorded as speaking about persecution. Read this - But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name's sake (Luke 21:12). He also said, If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you (John 15:20).

It isn’t by our moderation that we are to be known but by the love we have for our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. Speaking to His disciples He said, A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another (John 13:34, also). It isn’t loving to let errors affecting one’s eternal life go uncorrected. We aren’t loving or even kind to "seekers" by catering to their misconceptions thinking in so doing we will win them to Christ. A Christianity of moderation is as much value as a ship without a compass. It is dependent upon the winds of human opinion for its course.

So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot,
I will spue thee out of my mouth. Revelation 3:16

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A Volunteer Reformation
Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. Mark 16:15

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These words from the Book of Mark, Jesus said in the town of Galilee just before His ascension. There is no doubt He was speaking to His disciples. The question is, whether this commission was intended only for them. We can only begin to unravel this 2,000-year-old puzzle by understanding who these eleven men Jesus was addressing were. Today, they are just as often referred to as "apostles" as "disciples." Let’s review what most already know. The Greek we translate as "disciple" means "learner" or "pupil" – a student. It is used 252 times in the KJV in this way. "Apostle," used 80 times, means a messenger or one who is sent on a mission. A student, disciple, learns his lessons and teaches what he has learned to others. Nothing too difficult or mysterious. But, before going further, it might be well to refresh our memories – Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus; Hebrews 3:1. Lest we forget whom we should focus upon.

Because, now, the "fun" begins. Bill Hybels, pastor of Willow Creek Community Church, most recent book is titled, The Volunteer Revolution, not accidentally similar to the title of this article. Hybels writes about creating "a vision that will inspire and motivate your congregation to become committed and thriving volunteers." He writes of the "church body" flourishing, a deeper sense of community and "increased ownership." Among the advantages of this "revolution" are such wonderfully positive things as loyalty, involvement, commitment and giving to the church - even evangelism and small groups. To advance this "revolution" a Living Beyond Myself: Launching a Volunteer Revolution Kit may be purchased for as little as $499.00 - $749.00 for "non-members." As worthwhile as these objectives are, they are tragic.

First, notice the subtly of what is said about the "revolution" from Hybels’ book, "your congregation." The idea of a "volunteer revolution" raises the specter of some in the "congregation" being "non-volunteers." There is to be "increased ownership" and a "deeper sense of community" suggesting some degree of lack of such within a "congregation" interested in participating in this "volunteer revolution" as with loyalty, commitment, evangelism and, perhaps most importantly, giving. The picture that evolves from this briefest examination of Pastor Hybels’ book is two camps (1) the paid "your" group who owns the congregation and (2) the unpaid "volunteer" group who will, hopefully, become motivated to assume more of the responsibilities of the "body politic" than they do – evidently. But Hybels is no more to blame than he is alone in his attitude. It is the prevailing mind-set. It is the "church" in 20^th Century Christianity.

No where in the recorded words of Jesus the Christ, our Apostle and High Priest, does He elevate His "disciples," then "apostles," into some ethereal realm that sets them above other believers. Yes, He taught them, ordinary men, and He taught them in what we would call a "small-group" setting. He then instructed them to do as He and to teach others who were to teach others in an unbroken chain. To assure the chain remained unbroken, He sent to them as He does to us, the Holy Spirit, as our teacher, counselor and comforter. Remember, Jesus promised the Comforter shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. (John 14:26). That promise extends across the centuries to each and every one of us. Just as there were no "Apostles" only apostles, then, there are no "Saints" among us; only "saints." Remember, that Judas Iscariot was counted among the "apostles" listed in the Book of Matthew. That is especially noteworthy in light of the passage in which Jesus "commissions" the "apostles."

Judas was so commissioned. The disciples abandoned Jesus after His arrest and fled to go to their respective homes after His crucifixion. They were men who had no claim to being special other than through the endowment of the Holy Spirit. Clearly they did not understand His teachings without that special faculty.

Because the belief that "apostles" became "Apostles," is so deeply entrenched in our Christian way of thinking, nothing more than a reformulation of this overpowering attitude will be sufficient. Actually Hybels, Rick Warren and others, in a backhanded sort of way, are recognizing that the existing church paradigm is not meeting its proclaimed goals or living up to any other of its stated expectations. Some of us may chose to rest in the certain knowledge of our salvation and not grow and mature spiritually, but the potential is there. We must begin to comprehend that each if us is commissioned as students of the Word – disciples. Each of us is ordained to preach, teach and exemplify the Word in what we say and in what we do.

For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. Romans 8:14

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Science and Religion – "Both Searching for the Truth?"
And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. John 8:32

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Can anyone imagine a Christian, a pastor at that, saying something like "And when it comes to the subject of science and religion there is no problem because both are in the same business of searching for truth." Wrong. Only science is in the process attempting to discover it. Religion – Christianity – knows the Truth. Search means to investigate, examine, inquire into, scrutinize, sift, question. "Seekers," prayerfully will do just that, but, even more prayerfully, Christians will know. To know means we understand, perceive, and recognize the Truth. Seekers ask "Who is this Jesus you keep talking about?" Prayerfully, Christians know who He is. The process of searching ceases with conversion and the process of refinement begins.

According to the Encyclopaedia Britannica, "knowing is to be aware of the truth or factuality of to be convinced or certain of: to have a practical understanding of" something. It is a fact that Jesus is the Son of the Living God. We are convinced that He is our savior. We are certain of our eternal salvation. Aren’t we to have a "practical understanding" of basic Christian beliefs to be able to apply them to our live and in our relationships with other? We know, science seeks.

Look at the contrast. Britannica tells us, searching is "to look into or over carefully or thoroughly in an effort to find or discover something: as to examine in seeking something." Are Christians carefully looking into the possibility that Jesus is our savior? Are we trying to discover if He is really the Son of God as He claims? Do you know that God is loved or are you still exploring the proposition? Are you saved or are you still questioning? Reverend Dr. Pastor, where is your faith?

And what of those still searching, seeking, possibly even that pastor? How are we to discover the truth through scientific methodology? Jesus tells us Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. Isn’t this the "scientific way?" Well, first, He is telling us to ask God in prayer, not in the laboratory. Second, we are being reassured that if we faithfully ask, not systematically or objectively investigate, He will answer us. Third, it is through God’s mercy, not our intellect that Truth will be revealed to us rather than the scientific paradigm of probabilities and correlations being surmised by us. In Christianity, we know that we see through the glass darkly but with a sure certainty we know all His glory will be ours to behold. Science will never know more than the darkness of the glass. Most emphatically, we Christians know through faith and prayer. What little science knows is transient, illusory and limited by the capacity of our finite brains to comprehend the unfathomable nature of God.

Let us propose the question our pastor did. Is There a God? Can science even offer an opinion? It cannot. But it does and scientists do. Legitimately? No they cannot. For the most fundamental question in all creation, science is deaf, dumb and blind – "deprived of practical significance" - moot. Scientists in their personal lives may be, and prayerfully are, Christians as schizophrenic as that would be. However in their professional capacity, "ex-cathedra" as it were, they cannot answer the question. Science only studies natural phenomena; God is super natural. Science may only study phenomena knowable to the human brain; God is incomprehensible to the human mind. Science may only study that which is discoverable through one or more of the "natural senses." Only through His choice are we allowed to sense what He deems necessary of Himself. Science may only study that which obeys the laws of nature (natural laws), God created them, is not subject to them and may, as He desires ignore them, change them or eliminate them. He is unpredictable.

And now, there is the matter of intelligence. One Dr. Michael Guillen Emmy awards winning correspondent for ABC News, a physicist, and author asks the question, "Can a Smart Person Believe in God?" Actually, Dr. Guillen has the question backwards. Dr. Guillen proposes a strange dichotomization between being smart and being a Christian. Then he proceeds to show one can be both. Fortunately, he does concede it is possible, just possible for an intelligent person to believe in God. Once more, his basic premise is false. Being Christian is the intelligent, smart thing to be. Only smart people can figure that out. And, unlike his book, it takes far more than genius to read His Book. To read His Book requires the assistance of the Holy Spirit. It isn’t religion that is on trial, science is. This I know because the Bible tells me so.

Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart,
and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind Matthew 22:37

Your Sin Is Greater Than Mine!
Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee
 from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin John 19:11
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YOUR DENOMINATION
But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name,
will teach you all things and remind you of everything I have told you. John 14:26
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TO WHAT LIMITS?
Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts,
we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Titus 2:12
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THE LAW  
Luke 16:16
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Pundits like Chuck Colson, James Dobson and organizations like the Christian Coalition champion the law and consider themselves overseers of governments and the courts. The Rev. Dr. D. James Kennedy directs most of his energy opposing thorny legal issues including abortion, pornography, same sex marriages, prayer in school, selection of Supreme Court justices, display of the Ten Commandments and the like. And, well they should. The Nation’s Courts, on the brink of endorsing same sex marriages, are about to approve incestuous marriages and possibly polygamy. It isn’t too much to suggest that we are rapidly descending into the pit of lawless anarchy. People are shunning the rule of law in favor of the hedonism of "if it feels good, do it!" Actually, we have gone far beyond this simple hedonism into the rarefied atmosphere of "egotistic hedonism" defined by the Encyclopaedia Britannia as, "the ethical theory that achieving one's own happiness is the proper goal of all conduct." Not only have we lost the Judeo-Christian foundation of our secular social order, we are losing the very concept of law itself. Every day, we are surrounded by the calamity of lawlessness. All anyone who seriously challenges the allegation has to do is review the reflections of contemporary culture found in the media to prove the erroneousness of their position?

What are Christians to do in the face of such overwhelming cultural perversions? Are we to take up arms against this sea of troubles as so many clamor for us to do? It is an appealing idea that by opposing we can end them. But can we really? Maybe more basically, we should be asking what Jesus demands of us? Does He call us to arms? Are we to be as one hymn suggests, "Christian soldiers marching as to war" and thus preserve the "law of the land?" It is written that, For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ (John 1:17) which supposes the Gospel is greater than the Sacred Law. While Christ said that not one particle of it would be lost, did He commission us to defend it? Paul wrote to the saints in Rome, For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace (6:14), and to the Colossians Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ (2:17). Since the "Law" spoken of in the Gospels means (1) the Moral Law, (2) the Ceremonial Law and (3) the Civil or Political Law, can one suppose that any of it is superior to the teachings of Jesus the Christ? For Christians, does the secular law define murder, adultery and theft and the like? Or are our definitions far more extensive? Jesus taught, For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: (Matthew 15:19). Then, if He teaches us that the heart rules rather than the Law; and the law of which He speaks is the "Mosaic Law," is it not even more so when considering human secular law?

In that ideal social condition in which there is no lust, murder or deceitfulness of any sort, and that Day will come, what will bring it about? Will obedience to the Mosaic Law? Will obedience to the civil law? Is it not to be brought about by His disciples obeying His commands? If we who are Christians were more than hearers of the word (James 1:22) would not His Kingdom have come upon the earth? How much are we like the scribes and Pharisees of His day being more hearers than doers? How much do we rely upon the external rather than the internal? Doesn’t it seem more likely that Jesus wants us to (1) obey His precepts and (2) bring others into His fold rather than bomb abortion clinics and weep and wail over the selection of Supreme Court justices? It isn’t that such things are unimportant as much as it is they are consequences rather than causes. Will a repeat of 9/11 be prevented by our ranting (pro or con) over the "war" in Iraq? Will casting invectives at the ACLU or even taking a strong stand opposing "bioethics and human cloning bring us one step closer to "that day in which there is no sunset and no dawning?" If the Country turned today and prominently displayed the Ten Commandments on every government building in the land

God told the army of Judah not to worry about the opposing hordes before them for the battle is not yours but God’s (2 Chronicles 20:15b.) Paul recounts that Abraham was, strong in faith, giving glory to God; (Romans 4:20) and because of that, it was imputed to him for righteousness. (v. 22). Perhaps we should spend less time in ranting against the forces of evil around us and more time in praise and worship; less time recruiting for a political agenda and more raising an army of believers to glorify His Holy Name.

Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves. Matthew 23:15

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The Law and the Covenant

Thus saith the LORD; For three transgressions of Judah, and for four, I will not turn away the punishment thereof; because they have despised the law of the LORD Amos 2:4

Twenty times from Exodus through the Book of Daniel, the Jewish people were told by God to "keep my commandments." In some of these 20 times they were told to also keep His "laws" while in others it was His "statutes" they were to keep." The word "commandment" by itself appears 138 times in the Old Testament the last is the passage cited above from the Book of the prophet Amos. "Commandments" does not appear in the last nine OT books. It is also interesting to note the civil war that separated Israel into two nations at the time of Solomon’s death had already taken place. The "Judah" referred to is the "Southern Kingdom." By the way, the "Northern Kingdom," called "Israel" was also subject to the same condemnation. This is what the Lord God Almighty said to the Jewish people after He reminded them of all He had done for them, Behold, I am pressed under you, as a cart is pressed that is full of sheaves (v.13). Take care lest we think we burden Him less with the "sheaves" of our sins any less than they.

To assist with keeping all of the commandments, laws and statutes He had given them, God first provided the Tabernacle while the people were in the wilderness and ultimately the Temple in Jerusalem. A myriad of ceremonies, sacrifices and rituals were also provided to assist them in their religious duties. Just for a flavor of some of these is what is referred to as the Mosaic Sacrificial System that included a Burnt Offering, a Meal Offering, Peace Offering, Sin Offering, Guilt Offering, Wave offering, Heave Offering and a Drink offering. In addition, there were a number of Pre-exilic feasts or festivals that included the Passover, Pentecost, Feast of the Tabernacles, the Day of Atonement and, of course the Sabbath. Central to all of this was the Tabernacle/Temple and the priesthood. Characteristic of all was their external nature – they were things that were done. They were like our sacrament of baptism and might be called "sacraments." Just like baptism, they were external, public if you will, involving to one degree or another the "congregation" and they could not save. It is fair to say, as is often the case with our "sacraments" that they were external reminders, (even icons) "outward manifestations. But, unlike today, there was no presumption of an inward change or commitment.

In contrast, the "covenant" we have with Jesus concerns our heart and soul. One Greek for heart used 56 times in the Gospels and 152 times in the rest of the New Testament is Kardia. It "denotes the centre of all physical and spiritual life." Psuche is another of those internal mechanisms of our "New Covenant" that means, "the soul as an essence which differs from the body and is not dissolved by death (distinguished from other parts of the body)." That’s used 41 times in the Gospels and 95 times through out the New Testament. When Jesus gives us His first commandment, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, He wasn’t being repetitious. The "heart" used in this passage is "kardia" the "soul used is "pusche" and the "mind" is "dianoia" (understanding, thinking and feeling, thoughts.)

In contrast, Judaism in Christ’s time had mutated into external symbolic artifacts of a once more of a vibrant religion. Sacrifices, holidays, ceremonies, religious clothing and the empty Temple itself all were vestigial remnants of what once was. From the "Urmin and Thummim" worn by the High Priest to simple yarmulkes ("kippah" - skull caps) and the Tzitzit worn by Jewish men, clothing was intended to convey adherence to a "Talmudic life-style." The kashrut (Jewish dietary laws) promoted purity and holiness. The Tefillin aided in one’s prayer life, and the mezuzah is a constant reminder of "G-d’s" presence and of the 613 commandments Jews are obligated to observe. "G-d" Himself was an external manifestation in pillars of fire and smoke and in the Ark of the Covenant – until it was lost.

Perhaps nothing draws the contrast between the Old and New Testament that what Christ encountered during his earthly ministry. The people of Judah and Israel were expecting the Messiah to restore the kingdom the had originally demanded of Samuel with full expectation of complete restoration of Jerusalem and the Temple in the package. As the passage below from Revelation makes clear, this was not to happen because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. Amen.

And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God,
And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it.

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LEAVEN OF THE PHARISEES
Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven
of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. Matthew 16:6
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Jesus the Christ preached what today we would call "the unvarnished truth." As is the case today, that offended many. None, perhaps more than the Pharisees and the Sadducees. When we speak of Christ’s genteel nature, we do not have in mind the manner in which He addressed these two parties. There was another group, Herodians, whom some contend held Herod the Great (hence the name) up as the Messiah. Other theologians believed that them were more supporters of his dynasty rather than having any "spiritual" connotations. These, Jesus speaks of with some disdain in Mark 3:6; 12:13; Matthew 22:16 and Luke 20:20. The Pharisees were constantly plotting with this group to ensnare Jesus and, thus, find Him a heretic or at least an enemy of the state. As we all know, ultimately, they succeeded. So it is here, in this passage from Matthew, that Jesus again warns His disciples of those in positions of prestige and authority because they are, in simple terms, heretics – the unvarnished truth. Let us remember that, although these words were spoken over 2,000 years ago, He is still speaking to the saints and still warning them of the heretics among us who may be seated at the "head table" and robed in offices of authority just like the Pharisees, the Sadducees and those little "camp followers" the Herodians.

In some ways, those we encounter today are not as direct or forthcoming as these groups which only makes them more deceitful and more dangerous – wolves in sheep’s clothing. They pander reason, and compassion, even love to sell their false doctrines. Without saying as much, they "count their successes" that appear in the form of their massive popularity and/or the "number of souls THEY have won for Christ." In the first instance, Jesus warns us about popularity, in the second it is the Holy Spirit, not you or I who does such convicting and in the third of what value are souls won to heresy? We are told that the Pharisees taught were the "inventions of men." That of the Sadducees exactly the same which John Gill describes as their artfully infusing "their notions into the minds of men." Now, John Gill, just like the rest of us, is a mortal – subject to the same motives and weaknesses as the rest of us – simply put, he is mortal. So, don’t take his word as any more than ours. Instead, determine for yourself by prayer and study. Prayer to allow us to listen to the urgings of the Holy Spirit. Study of His Holy Word. One is inseparable from the other. As Gill points out, Matthew in 1612 points out, Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.

Some modern-day "Herodians would have us believe the "church" with its "liturgy" and "sacraments" is the guardian of His Sacred Word. No where, in Scripture, is that authority given. As a matter of fact, only by extrapolation (interpretation or reading between the lines) can the "church" as translated from the Greek in which the New Testament is written, can the word for church mean anything by those who have accepted Jesus the Christ as their Lord and Savior. The "leaven" (it would be called "yeast" today) Jesus warns about is exactly the works and words of men as separate from that of the Holy Spirit. Leaven, yeast, causes bread to rise. Without it, dough remains an unappetizing lump – and so do we. But, as then, there are two brands of yeast the leaven of men and the leaven of Truth. Both cause growth – cause the "bread to rise. The "leaven of men" produces a canker, a sore, a cancer on the soul.

John Gill’s Commentary suggests the leaven of men makes us "swelled and puffed them up with pride and vanity." That of the Pharisees convinces us of "justification by the works of the law." Adam Clark’s Commentary suggest that "bad doctrines" produces a swelling of pride, worldly-mindedness and hypocrisy." When we find ourselves in the presence of those who are "swelled and puffed up with their own pride and vanity." When we hear worldliness being preached and hypocrisy (that doctrine contrary to the Scriptures) might these be warning signs that we are in the presence of the "leaven of the "Pharisees and of the Sadducees?" John in Revelation 21:22 wrote, And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. He was writing of the 1,000 year Reign of Christ. Its significance here is also a warning about the "leaven of lies." We, are the "church," He dwell in each of us. Anyone who preaches to the contrary is a hypocrite. We are His holy priesthood. Anyone who preaches otherwise is a liar and the truth is not in him. (1 John 2:4b)
 

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IS IT BEING PURPOSE DRIVEN OR THE PURPOSE THAT DRIVES US?
Part II (The Church)
He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. Revelation 3:22
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Nothing is more dominant than the "church" in 21^st Century Christianity. In so many ways, in people’s minds, "church" and Christianity are synonymous with one another. When people talk about "Church" they are not referring to Judaism or Islam, Buddhism or Hinduism or any of the myriad of other world religions, they are talking about Christianity. In most of those conversations, we assume we’re all talking about the same thing. In most cases we are. However, in recent a Bible study class looking at the seven "churches" discussed in the Book of Revelation (Revelation 2 – 3) one long-time Christian asked the teacher, "Have they ever found any ruins of those churches?" That might appear to be a perfectly legitimate (if somewhat off the subject) question if we don’t know that for the "churches" discussed in Revelation, in the Book of Acts and throughout the New Testament no "ruins" could ever be found. The "church," capable of producing "ruins," didn’t exist until some 300 years after these Biblical accounts were recorded – not until the Emperor Constantine began to build them. The first was the basilica of St. John the Lateran. (ref.)

With its importance and with the confusion about what it is, a closer look at this "purpose" that drives our "religion" seems entirely appropriate. Even Roman Catholicism agrees that the first thing "church" refers to in Scriptures is a fellowship of believers (ref.). If we substitute "fellowship" for "church," the implication of some verses are dramatically changed. For example, Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, (1 Corinthians 1:2) becomes "Unto the fellowship of God which is at Corinth." Right away the image of the "church" as a building on the corner disappears and people come into view. So does the intent of such authors as Rick Warren when they write "Nothing on earth is more valuable to God than his church" (PDL, p. 161). He’s right. He’s also correct in saying, "We must passionately love the church in spite of its imperfections" (PDL p. 162). Just one correction, the "church" is not an "it." We can be Scripturally accurate to transliterate his phrase into, "We must passionately love one another in spite of our imperfections." Don’t we remain true to the Scriptural meaning of "church" if we translate 2 Corinthians 1:1 as "Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, unto the fellowship of God?"

We know that the People of the Way, as they were known before the originally disparaging term "Christian" became popular, met one another’s homes (today’s small groups) from a number of references such as, Aquila and Priscilla salute you much in the Lord, with the church that is in their house (1 Corinthians 16:19). Incidentally this pattern of small groups meeting in one another’s homes continued for two or three hundred years. If we keep the image of small groups meeting in one another’s homes instead of Joel Osteen’s mega church then the idea that, all that believed were together, and had all things common; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. (Acts 2:44-45) becomes more understandable. Rather than trying to provide welfare-like care for a herd of strangers, the brothers and sisters in Christ were looking after the well being of close, personal friends and family whom they knew and cared for deeply.

A lot changes if our "church" is a corporation instead of a small group of close friends and family. Among others, it is a matter of being disengaged instead of involved. Ritualistic and "staged/rehearsed professional productions. In the second, the "purpose that drives us" is loving regard for the welfare (spiritual and material) of our brothers and sisters (the family of God) in Christ. In the first there are paid staff, CEO’s, CFO’s, personnel managers, public relations experts and fundraisers. In the second the gifts of the Spirit such as prophecy, teaching, speaking in tongues, healing, and miracles. (1 Corinthians 12:28) Of course we lose "quality." A "tent maker" can’t really compete with a professionally trained orator any more than a group of six or seven "average" believers can sing praises to the Lord with the same quality as a 200 voice professionally trained choir. One wonders which sounds sweeter to the ears of our Lord. In our Statement of Purpose states, "It is our deep and abiding conviction that the early church wasn't a "church" at all. Instead, it was a fellowship; a fellowship of believers in our Lord Jesus the Christ gathering in support of one another to praise Him, worship Him and learn of Him." And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them Acts 16:25. But, our appetites may depend on what purpose drives us to attend "church."

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IS IT BEING PURPOSE DRIVEN OR THE PURPOSE THAT DRIVES US?
Part IV (Sharing)
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And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.Matthew 22:39

Christians are very familiar with this Second Commandment Jesus the Christ gave to us. Many times we act on it; during times of disaster, Thanksgiving and Christmas. As Americans, we like to think we are known around the world for our generosity – we try to be. Too often, unfortunately, we are not generous. To the contrary our behavior toward others can only be described as down right stingy. Its almost like we’re saying, "Let the devil take the hindmost."

Increasingly, we Christians are known more for what is considered our intolerance and what is regard as our bigotry than for our generosity. More and more what used to pass for "fundamentalism" is now regarded as fanaticism. These "slings and arrows," slurs, are having their effect. Not long ago, several Christians were discussing their beliefs. In the exchange one Christian indicated he thought John 3:16 was an intolerant statement. Another Christian said that Jesus statement that, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. (John 14:6) was such a fanatical statement that no self-respecting Christian could possibly believe it to be true. Both of these believers felt such attitudes condemned millions unfairly and that Christians who believed such things were narrow-minded. "There are many other religions" the conversation continued, "and just as many ways of worshiping God."

Interestingly, our generosity is at least partly responsible for 21^st Century Christians rejecting what millions upon millions over thousands of years took as the very foundations of our faith. Giving comes from a compassionate heart. It also comes from a desire not to hurt and not to exclude or ostracize people. Admirable, praiseworthy. It was Paul who said, Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend. (1 Corinthians 8:13) Doesn’t James seem to be setting inoffensiveness as a goal, For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body (James 3:2)? More and more there is a reluctance to confront non-believers with the Truth of Christ for fear of alienating them – driving them away. As more and more "churches" try to co-mingle worship and evangelism, this reluctance is spreading to the pulpit. Both individually and collectively the reasons most often given for such reluctance is love and concern for non-believers – we don’t want to offend them or drive them away.

There is another side to this discussion we don’t hear much about today. Its sharing the Gospel. Its caring for the poor in spirit. Its being generous and compassionate with what counts – the way to salvation. Unless we disagree that worldly things are of little consequence then giving and sharing those things are also of little consequence. On the authority of Jesus the Christ the Son of God, we must know this, For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? (Matthew 16:26) Therefore, if we choose not to share the means of salvation with others we are truly mean spirited. We are depriving them of that which is everlasting – eternal. We are being incomprehensibly stingy by selfishly keeping the treasures of heaven to ourselves while condemning others to, "be consigned to everlasting torment and misery, be banished from the divine presence" (ref).

If we accept the authority of Jesus, we are obligated to inform non-believers of the Truth of the Gospel regardless that it may hurt and even alienate them. This is what our Master said about this, Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake (Luke 6:22). It isn’t really being kind or loving, generous or compassionate to stand by and allow another to lose heaven because of their unrepentant sinfulness. Call it bigotry if you will, intolerance, extremism, whatever you wish. Better such denunciations be cast upon us than, because of our silence borne of mistaken attempts to be "broad-minded," someone be denied the knowledge with which to gain their salvation. It is not a matter of opinion, Jesus said, strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it (Matthew 7:14). Does that sound like "anything goes?" It doesn’t seem He was "broad-minded" now does it?

Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.
Mark 8:38

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The Gospel of Moderation

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Something Out Of Nothing
(or something for nothing)
I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labour:
other men laboured, and ye are entered into their labours. John 4:38

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People, even those in the scientific community, are becoming aware that something out of nothing does not make too much sense. Increasingly, even the most ardent "naturalist" is seeing huge holes in their own theories. It is like they took a course in Mathematics and finally learned that "2 X 0 = 0" or that "2/0 = 0." An English class may have taught them to say, "nothing is" rather than, "nothing are" then maybe they would have understood what their Latin teacher meant by ex nihilo nihil fit – nothing comes from nothing. Science is supposedly based on more than wild speculations and theories. These may be the starting points, but evidence must be collected and analyzed that support such speculations. There never has been such research, there never can be. It will always remain fanciful conjecture.

In the "natural" world, things just don’t go "poof" into existence but that is exactly what the "Big Bang Theory" proposes. The theory asserts that in the beginning, "all of the matter and energy of space was contained at one point." Taking science at its word, shouldn’t they be able to tell us where all this matter at this one point came from? They tell us with a straight face, "What exisisted (sic) prior to this event is completely unknown and is a matter of pure speculation" as if the whole theory isn’t "pure speculation" of the first order. There is another problem with the BBT. Science is based upon patterns, things are constant, they recur, they aren’t random or sporadic – there must be order in the universe. Does this sound like order, "Another consequence is that the universe is expanding in every direction." That sounds like an explosion doesn’t it? Just like the Mad Hatter, the universe is rushing of madly in all directions at once. Not very orderly though. How does one establish "natural laws" when things are exploding – constantly changing?

The theory is a ridiculous "big bust?" If scientists are honest, they must see that "naturalism" just isn’t "natural." Something out of nothing is a "God thing." However, there is more to this "something out of nothing" than just a scientific misstep. It is deeply ingrained in our cultural values and many of our personal values. Gambling is a prime example; so is cheating on our Income Tax. Fraud, in general demonstrates the "something for nothing" point of view as does, if we look at it closely most crime. Its what makes games shows so appealing just as it makes casino owners wealthy – getting something we haven’t earned and in all probability, something we don’t deserve. Admittedly, hard work and honest effort are much less appealing.

Our Christian heritage seems to say the same thing as the BBT. The "something out of nothing" or more correctly the something for nothing in this case is our salvation. The key word is seems, because, in actuality an enormous, unimaginable price was paid, just not by us. In this formula the "nothing" is our selves. We don’t like to hear that. We not only don’t have to contribute to the formula, we have nothing worth contributing. Paul states, For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing. It is through the immeasurable and incomprehensible love of our God and the perfectly cleansing blood of our Christ, that we get the most valuable possession imaginable – our salvation. It may be "free for the asking" to us, but God paid a horrific price – His Son. How many of us have worked hard on a project at work or at home; for family members or friends only to have it denigrated and not appreciated. Maybe we spent hours preparing a meal and someone orders from a "fast food" place serving that it instead. Imposing our puny "works" on the "unmerited" gift of salvation suggests the same lack of understanding of the omnipotent nature of the God whom we worship and a complete misunderstanding of Jesus’ sacrifice on the Cross.

As strange as this Christian work ethic is, as out of place it appears to be in the fraudulent gambling mentality so dominant in our culture, it is as odd as those who reject the gift outright. Think about it, some kindly person walks up to you on the street and hands you a cashier’s check for more money than Bill Gates has in the bank and you refuse to accept it. Well, just maybe, you think it is a fraud that the check is bogus, but you don’t even "check it out!" Ok, poor example. Imagine refusing to accept the keys to an armored car with billions of dollars inside. Let’s go one further step, imagine getting the keys to Fort Knox and refusing the offer out of hand. Isn’t it odd we consider the odds of the Lotto as acceptable. Here’s a conundrum, the gift of salvation is neither a gamble nor something for nothing. It is something out of nothing.

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Ephesians 2:8

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Are We Con Artists

Through the tender mercy of our God;
whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us Luke 1:78
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How many times have preachers used Luke 6:38, Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, not only as an encouragement for us to give, but as a testament of God’s generous, loving nature? Paul wrote that nothing could separate us from that love and that He was rich in mercy. John tells us, Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God, that His love is perfect and in the converse He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. Need we be reminded of the foul of the air and the lilies of the field? How much more forcefully could it be said that He cares for and loves each one of us individually than that, as Jesus said, the very hairs of your head are all numbered? At least for those with some to be counted. He sacrificed His Son that we might be saved. What more evidence could possibly be offered of His tender, loving care. It is axiomatic – God is love.

Scriptures tell us to be like Jesus in our treatment of others – in our charity. It is interesting that "charity" means both "benevolence, goodwill toward or love of humanity and generosity and helpfulness toward the suffering." That’s a summation of the Gospel as spoken by Jesus. We can’t proclaim love for the Samaritan while passing him by. We express our love in giving – I was hungry? John Gill’s Exposition points out that these passages describe the character of and evidence of the God’s grace, not the reasons for our being saved. Controversial passages on giving are in Acts 4:32-35 where the disciples turn in all their possessions and redistribute them. Matthew 25: 14-30 gives us a strong lesson on expecting a return on our "investments." We are promised a100-fold return on our giving. We are told to ask and it will be given to us – that we’ll receive we ask for in prayer. Jesus told his disciples, And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do. He also told them, God knows how to give to those who ask. Paul writes, Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free.

If we weren’t repaid a100-fold return on our "investment," would we still give? If our return wasn’t now, "in cash," would we still be interested, in writing that big check, giving that generous charitable remainder trust, deeding our property to the church, paying "tithes?" We are instructed to give, pray and fast in secret and He will reward us openly. What if He doesn’t? If instead He said, "and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee when thou get to heaven," would we still give as much – if at all? Just suppose no one ever knew about our charitable giving? If there was no recognition of our gifts, no "thanks," just less money to spend on us, would our giving to the church change? If instead of our cup running over it ran dry, would we still give? What if God is not our personal Santa Claus granting every wish and desire, rewarding our puny efforts to placate Him with our tithes and offerings? Indeed, what is it that God Almighty needs from us? What do we have that is so valuable it could used for a bribe? In fact, aren’t we spiritually pitiful, threadbare and homeless? We are if we think we can bribe Him with anything we have. Keep in mind He is the creator of all – the entire universe. This is like the child who was taught to believe leaving cookies and milk were a prerequisite for Santa leaving Christmas presents.

The Bible does teach us to not just to give but to excel in giving (but what, for whom, for what purpose.) If we believe that Matthew 19:29 means we will get material rewards100 times what we give to the Lord, we are mistaken. If we give things to receive things, as an investment, with an expectation of the return of a "gift in kind," we are looking for figs on a barren tree. How else can we translate, For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also? If anything material is to be read in to the overflowing cup, it is that we who (out of a loving heart) are kind to those in need will find many ready to help when we are in need. Gratitude, not expectations or self-interest, for God’s loving generosity is (or should be) the motive for our giving – a desire to glorify His name – not to enhance our worldly possessions in some "payback scheme." Do we really expect He who has given all to give more? If we understand the true worth of God’s sacrifice us gratitude should prevent us from asking for more. The Gift is sufficient in itself.

And if ye lend to them of whom ye hope to receive, what thank have ye?
for sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again. Luke 6:34

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