Title: Thinking Biblically about New Year's Resolutions
Introduction:
Welcome, dear listeners, to our podcast where we explore the concept of New Year's resolutions from a biblical perspective. As pastors rooted in the Baptist tradition, let's delve into what resolutions are, how Christians should approach them, and draw insights from the resolutions of the renowned theologian Jonathan Edwards.
Understanding Resolutions:
A resolution, in its essence, is a firm decision or determination to change or achieve a specific goal in one's life. New Year's resolutions often involve setting personal goals, making improvements, or cultivating positive habits as we enter a new year.
Biblical Perspective on Resolutions:
As Christians, our approach to resolutions should align with biblical principles. Our resolutions should not be merely driven by worldly ambitions or superficial desires but should reflect a heart inclined toward honoring God, growing in faith, and living in obedience to His Word.
Jonathan Edwards and His Resolutions:
Jonathan Edwards, a prominent theologian, lived in the 18th century. He was known for his theological writings, sermons, and profound insights into God's sovereignty. Edwards also crafted a list of resolutions aimed at living a life devoted to God's glory and personal growth.
Insights from Edwards' Resolutions:
Several resolutions by Jonathan Edwards offer valuable insights for Christians today:
Resolution #6: "To live with all my might, while I do live."
This resolution emphasizes the importance of living wholeheartedly for God. It challenges us to prioritize living purposefully and passionately for His glory in all aspects of life.
Resolution #22: "Resolved, to endeavor to obtain for myself as much happiness in the other world as I possibly can."
Edwards reminds us of the eternal perspective, urging us to focus on pursuing heavenly joy and treasures rather than fleeting worldly pleasures.
Resolution #52: "I frequently hear persons in old age say how they would live, if they were to live their lives over again: Resolved, that I will live just so as I can think I shall wish I had done, supposing I live to old age."
This resolution prompts introspection and encourages deliberate living in a manner that aligns with our values and aspirations, considering the future consequences of our actions.
Resolution #58: "Resolved, not only to refrain from an air of dislike, fretfulness, and anger in conversation, but to exhibit an air of love, cheerfulness, and benignity."
Edwards highlights the significance of cultivating positive attitudes and behaviors in our interactions with others, reflecting the love of Christ in our speech and demeanor.
Conclusion:
As we contemplate New Year's resolutions, let's approach them with a commitment to glorify God in all areas of our lives. Drawing wisdom from Jonathan Edwards' resolutions, let us seek to live purposefully, prioritize eternal joy, act deliberately, and exhibit Christ-like love and grace to others. May our resolutions be guided by a desire to honor God and grow in conformity to Christ. Thank you for joining us, and may God bless your resolutions for the upcoming year. Amen.
Title: The Miraculous Birth of Jesus: A Family Devotional Journey through Matthew and Luke
Introduction:
Welcome to our special time together as we explore the awe-inspiring accounts of Jesus' miraculous birth found in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. The birth of Jesus is the heart of the Christmas story, and through these narratives, we'll discover the profound truths of God's plan and His incredible love for us.
Opening Prayer:
Let's start our family devotional time with a prayer, inviting God's presence and guidance as we explore His Word together.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ. As we delve into the stories of His miraculous birth, open our hearts and minds to understand the significance of this wondrous event. May Your Spirit enlighten us and draw us closer to You. In Jesus' name, amen.
Devotional Journey:
Setting the Scene (Luke 1:26-38)
Read Luke 1:26-38 together as a family. This passage details the angel Gabriel's visit to Mary, announcing the miraculous conception of Jesus. Discuss the emotions Mary might have felt upon hearing this incredible news. Emphasize her humble submission and trust in God's plan.Discussion:
What qualities of Mary's character stand out to you in this passage?
How might Mary's response to the angel's message inspire us in our own faith journey?
Application:
Share about a time when you had to trust God's plan even when it seemed uncertain.
Encourage each family member to reflect on how they can respond to God's calling with faith and obedience.
Joseph's Dilemma (Matthew 1:18-25)
Turn to Matthew 1:18-25 and read about Joseph's initial struggle upon discovering Mary's pregnancy. Discuss the turmoil Joseph faced and his obedience after receiving guidance from an angel in a dream.Discussion:
What do you think Joseph might have felt when he learned about Mary's pregnancy?
How did Joseph's response show his trust in God's plan?
Application:
Encourage each family member to share a time when they had to trust God's guidance even when faced with uncertainty.
Discuss ways to demonstrate obedience and trust in God's plan in our daily lives.
The Birth of Jesus (Luke 2:1-20)
Read Luke 2:1-20 together, recounting the humble birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, announced by angels to shepherds. Reflect on the significance of Jesus being born in a lowly setting.Discussion:
Why do you think God chose a humble birthplace for His Son?
How did the shepherds respond to the angels' message, and why is their reaction important?
Application:
Discuss ways to celebrate the birth of Jesus that focus on His humility and God's immense love for us.
Encourage acts of kindness or service in honor of Jesus' birth.
Closing Reflection and Prayer:
Take a moment for each family member to share a personal reflection on what they've learned or been inspired by during this devotional time. Close your family time in prayer, thanking God for the miraculous birth of Jesus and asking for His guidance to live faithfully in His love and purpose.
Conclusion:
Thank you, families, for joining in this special time together. As we celebrate Christmas, may we carry the truths from the narratives of Matthew and Luke in our hearts, remembering the miraculous birth that brought hope, joy, and salvation to the world. God bless you all. Amen.
Copy of Edwards Resolution: https://www.csmedia1.com/odfellowship.org/edwards-resolutions.pdf
Dr. Don Winters is from Carter County, Tennessee and has studied at Institute of Holy Land Study and today known as Jerusalem University College. Hear a firsthand account of how God has been working in the lives of believers in the Middle East. You can email us at faithfullyentrusted@gmail.com or Dr. Winters at don.winters@yahoo.com.
Other Useful Links:
· Christian Source: https://www.stephensizer.com/books/
· Jewish Source, Israeli Academic Resource: https://www.amazon.com/Ethnic-Cleansing-Palestine-Ilan-Pappe/dp/1851685553
· Christian Palestine Author: https://www.amazon.com/Palestinian-Memories-Alex-Awad/dp/0978783905
· Bethlehem Bible College: https://bethbc.edu/
Travis and Brent dive into the Book of Matthew.
Step 1: Determine the real issue. You know, before you even initiate that conversation, it's crucial to take some time to figure out what the problem is. What's at the core of it all? Is it a behavior that needs to change, or perhaps a personality conflict that's hard to address?
Step 2: Create a safe environment for the conversation. The setting matters. Think about where and when you'll have this talk. Avoid having it on the fly or in a hallway, as it might catch your pastor off guard. And, whatever you do, steer clear of group settings.
Step 3: Be specific and objective. When you start the conversation, set the stage with a concrete example. For instance, "During our staff meeting, I noticed that you didn't participate in the discussion about..." Be objective in your descriptions and avoid subjective language.
Step 4: Describe how the behavior impacted you, others, or the church. After explaining the problem, talk about the consequences of that behavior. This could be something like, "When you didn't participate in the conversation, it made me concerned about our direction." Avoid making assumptions about their intent.
Step 5: Ask an open-ended question that invites their feedback and participation in the solution. This step is often overlooked but is crucial. Don't just deliver the bad news; ask for their perspective. For example, "Can you help me understand what was going on with you during that meeting?" This can be a game-changer in turning the conversation towards growth and change.
Step 6: Set a time to revisit the conversation. After your initial discussion and any agreed-upon changes, schedule a follow-up in a few weeks. If there have been improvements, acknowledge them. If not, discuss what went wrong and how to move forward.
[POINTER 1]
One, always focus on the issue, not the person. Avoid making it personal; keep the conversation centered on the behavior or situation that needs addressing.
[POINTER 2]
Two, practice active listening. Ensure that you're not just talking at your pastor but also listening to their perspective and being open to it.
[POINTER 3]
Three, remember that timing matters. Find the right moment to initiate the conversation. Avoid approaching your pastor when they're stressed, busy, or in the middle of something important.
[POINTER 4]
Four, be prepared for defensiveness. Understand that your pastor may feel defensive initially, and that's okay. Stay calm and empathetic.
[POINTER 5]
Five, maintain a spirit of humility. It's not about proving you're right; it's about fostering growth and understanding.
[POINTER 6]
Six, pray throughout the process. Ask God for guidance, patience, and the ability to maintain a loving and Christ-like attitude.
Travis: You know I do: John Owen said, "Truth and love must always go hand in hand in difficult conversations, for it is only through love that truth is received."
Step 1 - Determining the Necessity of Confrontation
Remembering Proverbs 19:11
When to confront
When it's impossible to forget the offense
When the relationship with the person is strained
When you suspect someone has something against you
Avoiding the temptation to "chicken out"
The Three Day Rule - Is it still bothering you after three days? If yes, you need to confront it.
Host: Step 2 - Defining the Problem
Questions to ask:
What's the issue?
What was said or done?
Identifying the sin
Assessing the impact
The necessary change
Emphasizing the use of Scripture for rebuke and correction
Host: Step 3 - Getting the Log Out of Your Eye
Understanding our own sins and temptations
Galatians 6:1 and the importance of self-awareness
Host: Step 4 - Preparing Your Heart
Motives for confronting
Glorifying God
Turning the person from sin
Seeking reconciliation
Cultivating right attitudes
Gentleness, patience, humility, and genuine concern
Ensuring your content is good
The power of prayer in effective communication
Host: Step 5 - The Confrontation Process
Speaking privately and choosing the right setting
Affirming your affection for the person
Sharing your concerns with biblical language
Maintaining a spirit of inquiry and openness
Offering biblical counsel and solutions
Providing sufficient time for reflection
Praying with and for the person
Following up on the conversation
Expressing affection and appreciation (if it went well)
Moving to the next level of the Matthew 18 model (if necessary)
Summarizing the importance of lovingly confronting sin
RESPONDING TO CONFRONTATION
1. Listen humbly and prayerfully.
a. If you need time to process- ask for time to process and pray about what has been said. (If you do this every time- you may have a heart problem of pride and unteachableness).
b. Determine if and where you have sinned.
c. Make an effort to get together with the one you have sinned against.
2. Confess.
a. Not only your words and actions, but also your motives.
b. Express sorrow- See II Corinthians 7:9-11.
i. For the act.
ii. Consequences of your actions.
o You are letting them know that you have caused pain, anxiety, or difficulty.
c. Identify the lessons learned and the ways you are going to change.
3. Ask for forgiveness.
4. Thank and affirm.
RESPONDING TO A CONFESSION
1. Tell the person you forgive him/her. (Don’t say “It’s OK” or “Don’t worry about it”)- Sin is never OK!
2. Thank the one seeking forgiveness for coming and confessing.
3. Ask if he has any offense toward you as a result of the incident.
a. If applicable, confess.
4. Declare the episode over- dead and gone!
a. Express your intent to walk fully reconciled to the person.
Nugget:
“There are three dimensions to the peace that God offers to us through Christ: peace with God, peace with one another, and peace within ourselves.”
― Ken Sande, The Peacemaker
Here are 10 things I have learned during my tenure in ministry:
Patience in Preparation: Writing sermons is an art that requires time, prayer, and careful study of God's Word. Some messages take years to develop fully, and in our patience, God refines both the message and the messenger.
Transient Souls, Eternal God: People come and go, but the Lord remains steadfast. Ministry often involves bidding farewell to dear congregants, but our solace lies in the unchanging presence of our Lord Jesus Christ.
The Unseen Damage of Ministry
Dan White, Jr. A Baptist Pastor from New York. People in his church kept leaving either because he was perceived as too liberal or too conservative. The constant anger and bickering left him exhausted.
In the podcast, Dan describes going on a long overdue vacation. After sleeping 14 hours the first night, he came downstairs and poured himself a bowl of cereal. His hands were shaking so badly that he could barely hold the spoon. When the shaking didn’t subside, he had a doctor perform a battery of tests. As the doctor interpreted the results, he explained that they found no diseases, but Dan's brain looked very similar to someone who had come back from a warzone and is experiencing PTSD.
A psychologist then asked Dan a series of questions about the losses he had experienced in the church. He ended up counting 180 different lost relationships due to death or people leaving the church. These are all losses where he was never given a chance to mourn, but had to continue to be the leader in his community regardless of how emotionally painful these severed relationships might have been. The result is that Dan internalized all this unprocessed trauma, which was contributing to his neurological condition.
Divine Provision: The Lord sends the workers He needs for His harvest. Trusting in His divine wisdom, we witness how He equips individuals with unique talents and gifts, precisely when they are needed most.
Companionship in Christ: Having friends within the church is a blessing beyond measure. These friendships provide support, encouragement, and accountability, making our spiritual journey more meaningful and less daunting. Jesus is the best friend you will ever have, but He is no replacement for friends inside and outside the church. See 2 Timothy
Facing Opposition: Haters are gonna hate, as the saying goes. In ministry, criticism and opposition are inevitable. Yet, in these moments, we find strength in the Lord’s assurance and continue our work with unwavering faith.
Ownership Belongs to God: The church is not ours; it belongs to the Lord. This fundamental truth reminds us to lead with humility, recognizing that we are stewards of God's flock and caretakers of His sanctuary.
Love People Anyway: Ministry is messy because people are messy. Yet, in the midst of imperfections and struggles, Christ's unconditional love prevails. We are called to love as He loves us, without reservation or judgment. Love people who do not and will not love you back. We loved him because he first loved us.
Faithfulness in the Mundane: Faithfulness is not only displayed in grand gestures but also in the mundane tasks of ministry. Whether it's cleaning the sanctuary or offering a listening ear, every act of service matters in God's kingdom.
The Power of Prayer: Prayer is the heartbeat of ministry. It sustains us, empowers us, and connects us to the heart of God. Through prayer, we find guidance, strength, and the ability to persevere in challenging times.
Eternal Impact: The impact of faithful ministry extends far beyond our earthly lives. Every soul saved, every heart comforted, and every life transformed has eternal significance. We plant seeds, trusting that God will bring the increase in His perfect timing.
Introduction:
Reformation Day, celebrated on October 31st, marks a pivotal moment in Christian history when the Church underwent a radical transformation, reclaiming its biblical roots and paving the way for a more profound understanding of faith. The historical context of Reformation Day revolves around the 16th-century Church, which had deviated from essential biblical teachings. Corrupt practices, such as the sale of indulgences (forgiveness for sins), had overshadowed the core message of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.
At the heart of the Reformation stood courageous reformers such as Martin Luther, John Calvin, and Ulrich Zwingli. These men, deeply committed to the authority of Scripture, sought to bring the Church back to the foundational truths of the Bible. They emphasized key doctrines, known as the Five Solas, which continue to define conservative Bible-believing Christianity:
Sola Scriptura (Scripture Alone): Reformation leaders affirmed the Bible as the ultimate and infallible authority for faith and practice. They advocated for the accessibility of Scripture to all believers, emphasizing personal study and understanding of God’s Word. This principle remains central to conservative Bible-believing Christians, guiding their beliefs and practices (2 Timothy 3:16).
Sola Fide (Faith Alone): Reformation thinkers reaffirmed that salvation is a gift from God received through faith in Jesus Christ, not by human works or efforts. This profound truth emphasized in passages like Ephesians 2:8-9 continues to shape the core beliefs of Bible-believing Christians, highlighting the centrality of faith in Christ’s finished work on the cross.
Sola Gratia (Grace Alone): Reformation theology underscored the concept of God's unmerited favor and grace as the basis for salvation. This principle, rooted in passages like Romans 3:24, emphasizes that humanity is saved solely by God's grace, not by any human merit. Conservative believers hold firm to this foundational truth, acknowledging their complete dependence on God’s grace for salvation.
Solus Christus (Christ Alone): Reformation leaders proclaimed the exclusive sufficiency and supremacy of Jesus Christ for salvation. Acts 4:12 highlights this truth, affirming that there is no other name under heaven by which humanity can be saved. Conservative Bible-believing Christians continue to affirm the uniqueness of Christ in a world of diverse religious beliefs.
Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone): Reformation theology emphasized that all of life is to be lived for the glory of God alone. Believers are called to glorify God in every aspect of their lives, acknowledging that they exist for His glory and not their own (1 Corinthians 10:31). This principle remains central in the lives of conservative Bible-believing Christians, shaping their worldview and priorities.
In summary, Reformation Day holds immense significance for Bible-believing Christians. It marks a historical turning point when the Church rediscovered the profound truths of God’s Word, reshaping the course of Christianity. These enduring principles of the Reformation continue to guide and inspire believers today, reminding them of the importance of unwavering faith in God’s Word, salvation through Christ alone, and living for God’s glory in all things.
Research Reference: MacCulloch, Diarmaid. "The Reformation: A History." Viking, 2003.
Segment 1: The Skeptic's Dilemma
Segment 2: The Naturalistic Moral Landscape
Segment 3: Human Behavior in a Godless Universe
Segment 4: Divine Judgment and Moral Accountability
Segment 5: Addressing Skepticism's Concern
Segment 6: Moral Progress and the Divine Narrative
Segment 1: The Biblical Foundation
Explore Genesis 9:6 as the foundational passage for understanding the sanctity of human life.
Discuss the Noachic Covenant and its significance in upholding the value of all life, as seen in the prohibition of consuming blood.
Examine the tension between the sanctity of human life and the requirement to put to death any animal that kills a human, based on Leviticus 20:15.
Segment 2: Capital Punishment and Romans 13
Dive into Romans 13:1-7 and its relevance to the issue of capital punishment.
“Does loving your enemy mean not punishing him? No, for loving myself does not mean that I ought not to subject myself to punishment—even to death. If one had committed a murder, the right Christian thing to do would be to give yourself up to the police and be hanged. It is, therefore, in my opinion, perfectly right for a Christian judge to sentence a man to death or a Christian soldier to kill an enemy. I always have thought so, ever since I became a Christian, and long before the war, and I still think so now that we are at peace.
It is no good quoting “Thou shalt not kill.” There are two Greek words: the ordinary word to kill and the word to murder. And when Christ quotes that commandment He uses the murder one in all three accounts, Matthew, Mark, and Luke. And I am told there is the same distinction in Hebrew. All killing is not murder any more than all sexual intercourse is adultery. When soldiers came to St. John the Baptist asking what to do, he never remotely suggested that they ought to leave the army: nor did Christ when He met a Roman sergeant-major—what they called a centurion. [. . .] We may kill if necessary, but we must not hate and enjoy it.” -C.S. Lewis Mere Christianity
Samuel Willard (1640–1707):
"It is not only a mercy to the public, but a mercy to the offenders, that God hath appointed a measure of punishment, and restrained them from arbitrary, unlimited cruelty."
What is Gender?
Title: The Divine Blueprint Unveiled: Unraveling Gender through Genesis 5:1-3
Introduction:
Introduce the topic of gender and its significance in contemporary discussions.
Highlight the importance of exploring the biblical perspective on gender through the lens of Genesis 5:1-3.
Present the thesis statement: Male and female reflect God's image and are intrinsic to His plan for procreation.
https://www.hrc.org/news/flashbackfriday-today-in-1973-the-apa-removed-homosexuality-from-list-of-me
1.
Gender according to Webster:
a
: a subclass within a grammatical class (such as noun, pronoun, adjective, or verb) of a language that is partly arbitrary but also partly based on distinguishable characteristics (such as shape, social rank, manner of existence, or sex) and that determines agreement with and selection of other words or grammatical forms
b
: membership of a word or a grammatical form in such a subclass
c
: an inflectional form (see INFLECTION sense 2a) showing membership in such a subclass
I. Unveiling the Imago Dei in Gender A. God's Creative Expression: Made in His Likeness
Examine Genesis 1:27 and its affirmation that humanity is created in the image of God.
Emphasize the significance of male and female as distinct expressions of God's divine likeness.
B. Reflecting the Creator's Unity in Diversity
Explore the concept of the divine Trinity and how it exemplifies unity in diversity.
Connect this understanding to the complementary nature of male and female, reflecting God's multifaceted character.
II. Gender's Role in God's Procreative Design A. A Glorious Partnership: Co-Creators with God
Discuss the importance of procreation in God's plan, as depicted in Genesis 1:28.
Emphasize how the union of male and female is designed to bring forth new life, mirroring God's act of creation.
B. The Sacred Covenant of Marriage
Examine Genesis 2:24 and the establishment of marriage as a sacred covenant.
Highlight the exclusive and intimate nature of the marital union, which forms the foundation for procreation.
III. Addressing Contemporary Challenges A. Cultural Shifts and Gender Identity
Acknowledge the cultural challenges surrounding gender identity and expression.
Present a compassionate and biblical response, affirming the inherent value of male and female as part of God's design.
B. Insights from Al Mohler
Introduce a quote from Al Mohler that supports the biblical view of gender and procreation.
Emphasize the significance of grounding our understanding of gender in scriptural authority.
Conclusion:
Recap the key points discussed in the blog, affirming the significance of gender in reflecting God's image and His plan for procreation.
Encourage readers to embrace and celebrate the distinctiveness of male and female, recognizing their integral role in God's divine blueprint.
Urge readers to engage in further study, seeking a deeper understanding of God's design for gender and its implications in their lives.
Conclude with a call to align our perspectives on gender with God's Word and to approach this topic with humility, grace, and a desire to honor God in our understanding and interactions.
Title: Embracing Love: A Biblical Perspective on Homosexuality
Introduction:
Welcome to "Embracing Love," the podcast where we explore how Bible-believing Christians can approach the topic of homosexuality with compassion, understanding, and a commitment to God's Word.
in today's episode, we'll discuss how Christians can navigate the issue of homosexuality based on biblical teachings, while drawing inspiration from the insights of Dr. Butterfield, a prominent figure in the field.
https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2013/january-february/my-train-wreck-conversion.html
Segment 1: Understanding Biblical Teachings on Homosexuality
Provide an overview of the relevant biblical passages that touch on homosexuality (Leviticus 18:22, Romans 1:26-27, 1 Corinthians 6:9-11).
Emphasize the importance of interpreting these verses within the broader context of God's love, grace, and redemptive plan for all humanity.
Segment 2: Recognizing Our Own Brokenness
Highlight Dr. Butterfield's perspective on acknowledging our own brokenness and sinfulness, which paves the way for understanding and empathizing with others.
Quote: "Understanding my own sin was essential in learning to love others who were different from me. We are all sinners in need of God's grace" (Dr. Butterfield).
Segment 3: Extending Christlike Love and Compassion
Discuss how Jesus' example of love and compassion should guide our interactions with LGBTQ+ individuals.
Emphasize the importance of treating all people, regardless of their sexual orientation, with respect, dignity, and kindness.
Quote: "We must love our neighbors, listen to their stories, and extend grace to them. Jesus loved sinners, and we are called to do the same" (Dr. Butterfield).
Segment 4: Engaging in Honest and Open Dialogue
Encourage Christians to engage in respectful conversations about homosexuality, aiming to understand and be understood.
Address common misconceptions and stereotypes surrounding homosexuality, promoting a nuanced and informed approach.
Quote: "Genuine dialogue helps build bridges and fosters mutual respect. Let's seek understanding, even when we disagree" (Dr. Butterfield).
Segment 5: Offering Support and Discipleship
Discuss the importance of providing a supportive and loving community for LGBTQ+ individuals within the church.
Explore ways in which churches can create safe spaces for dialogue, growth, and discipleship.
Quote: "We need to be communities that offer love, support, and discipleship to all people, regardless of their struggles or sexual orientation" (Dr. Butterfield).
Conclusion:
Recap the main points discussed in the podcast, emphasizing the need for Bible-believing Christians to approach homosexuality with love, compassion, and a commitment to biblical truth.
Encourage listeners to reflect on their own attitudes and actions, striving to follow Jesus' example in their interactions with LGBTQ+ individuals.
Quote: "Let's remember that our primary identity is in Christ, and through Him, we can learn to love one another despite our differences" (Dr. Butterfield).
Outro:
Thank you for joining us on this episode of "Embracing Love." We hope it has provided you with valuable insights and a biblical framework for engaging with the topic of homosexuality. Remember, love and grace can transform hearts and build bridges. Until next time, may God bless you abundantly.
Have you ever encountered situations where things weren't quite as they seemed? Often, the same can be said about worship. It's easy to assume that outward displays of devotion equate to genuine worship, but a closer look reveals that worship isn't always what it appears to be. In the book of Genesis, we find a thought-provoking account that sheds light on this truth – the story of Cain and Abel's offerings (Genesis 4:1-16). Let's delve into this narrative to uncover three distinct elements that set their worship apart: faith versus lack of faith, tokenism versus true faith, and desire versus discharging duty.
Firstly, faith stands at the core of genuine worship. Abel's offering was accepted because it was accompanied by unwavering faith in God. He believed in God's promises and sought to honor Him wholeheartedly. In contrast, Cain's offering lacked faith. He offered the fruits of his labor but failed to acknowledge God as the source of his blessings. His worship lacked the essential ingredient of faith, causing it to fall short. This stark contrast reminds us that true worship springs from a heart grounded in faith and reliance on God.
Secondly, the distinction between tokenism and true faith becomes apparent in their offerings. Abel's offering was a genuine expression of his faith and love for God. He brought the best of his flock, symbolizing a sacrificial giving of his most valued possession. Abel's offering was born out of a sincere desire to please God. On the other hand, Cain's offering seemed more like tokenism. He offered some fruits, not necessarily his best or firs fruits, but rather as an obligatory gesture. It lacked the depth of genuine faith and devotion. This contrast highlights that true worship involves wholehearted commitment and sacrificial giving, rather than mere gestures of obligation.
Finally, the difference between desire and discharging duty emerges in their worship. Abel's offering stemmed from a deep desire to please God and seek His approval. He willingly brought his offering, driven by a genuine longing to worship God from the depths of his being. In contrast, Cain approached his offering as a duty to fulfill, a mere obligation. There was no burning desire within him to connect with God. This disparity serves as a poignant reminder that worship goes beyond fulfilling obligations; it flows from a passionate desire to commune with God and experience His presence.
As we reflect on the account of Cain and Abel, it becomes evident that worship goes beyond external appearances. It is an intimate connection between our hearts and the heart of God. True worship is characterized by unwavering faith, sacrificial giving motivated by genuine love, and a burning desire to seek and honor God. It requires us to examine our motives and align our hearts with God's desires.
Let this story serve as a reminder to evaluate our own worship. Are we offering God our best, driven by a deep faith and desire to honor Him? Or are we merely going through the motions, discharging our duties without genuine devotion? Let us strive to cultivate a worship that is pleasing to God, one that reflects our unwavering faith, sacrificial giving, and a genuine desire to seek Him wholeheartedly.
In conclusion, worship isn't always what it appears to be. By delving into the story of Cain and Abel's offerings, we discover that true worship is grounded in faith, involves sacrificial giving born out of genuine love of the LORD, and arises from a passionate desire to connect with God. Let us pursue a worship that goes beyond external rituals and truly honors the heart of our Creator, Savior and Helper.
"we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding.” -Col. 1:9
God’s Decretive (Sovereign) Will The secret will of God is known to God and God alone. This is knowledge of future events. The only way to discern this by looking backwards at past events.
God's Preceptive (Revealed) Will
The Scripture remains the revealed Will of God. The Word of God contains Biblical Commands, principles, and applied knowledge…aka wisdom.
What we may safely presume when making decisions.
God is gracious and has provided what we need in our decision making process.
Don’t be looking for the decretive will you will not find this out later as you look back over your life.
Scripture has bearing on all decision, one way or another (by commands - positive and negative and by principles). Wisdom is at purest in Scripture and then starts to rely more eon human reasoning, advice and experience after that (obviously less reliable).
Methods and Motives to be cautious of or avoid using
Misusing the Bible
Personal Advice - Godly people can advise you wrongly.
Circumstances/results -look @ results/numbers. Water can out of the rock when Moses struck it in spit of his disobedience.
Setting up conditions- Gideon’s approach to decision making- putting out the fleece
Opened and closed doors - Lots of open doors lead to elevator shafts;
Ideas, inner feelings, desires, and impressions - Very subjective; think of King David in the OT, he would not build the temple Solomon would do it even though David desired to build.
An Audible voice -2 peter 2:19 While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brotuh to bondage.
Misusing Prayer - Prayer is you speaking to God not God speaking to you.
Inner Peace - Gut feelings; Jonah had great peace in going the opposite way from What God had called him to do. Sometimes peace doesn’t come until after you do what God has asked. Jeremiah experienced extreme discomfort until he preached the terrible things God had placed on his heart to say.
Devices - Flipping coins
Signs -
Dreams - could just be your imagination
“Waiting” on the LORD - Doesn’t mean sit passively- trust in God
Conscience- Guard not a guide; renew w/scripture
reason - could be infected with sin (prov. 3:5-6
Faith - Unbiblical faith - we must take God at his Word and be obedient.
Fasting - some see it as a magic thing if we give of a meal or two God has to answer or your just a little thinner.
The “Call” -1 Tim. 3; Titus 1; confirmation from others; desire to do that.
Small Group
Prerequisites for Biblical Decision making
Be rightly related to Christ (2 Cor. 5:14-21)
Pursue a life of worshiping God (John 4:23-24; 2 Cor. 5:9; Phil. 1:21; 3:10-14; Co 1: 9-12)
Recognizing God’s sovereignty over all (ps. 115:3,8; Eph. 1L:11; eph,. 5:17; James 4:13-16; Prov. 16:9; Rom. 8:28-29). God’s sovereignty works in sync with (never apart from) all his other attributes.
The Process of Making A Biblical Decision:
Continually have a humble, yielding, and dependent will before God (Rom. 12:1-2).
Continually pray for wisdom- for the spirit to assist you in bringing Scripture to bear on the situation (James 1:5).
Gather all FACTUAL data needed to make a wise decision. (Prov. 18:13)
Study any direct commands in Scripture concerning this particular issue (2 Tim. 2:15), including positive commands or forms of prohibitions. (Make use of a Bible concordance, Topical Bible and other Bible reference books.)
Study the applicable principles in Scripture concerning the issue (2 Tim. 2:15). This is one of the most neglected areas of decision making.
Rom. 14:23; Heb. 11:25 use the “holding principle” = if it involves the troubled conscience - you might possibly sin in moving ahead.
Possibly go back and gather more data - both in the initial data gathering or in the commands and principles of scripture.
Greed, what is it? Why don't we naturally confess it?
Marriage in the Garden
Genesis 2:18-25
Luther makes his comment he says, “Human beings can err but the word of God is the very wisdom of God and the absolute infallible truth.”
Francis Schaeffer said 50 years ago, “if you want to know where the church is going to be in 20 years look at the world now the church is usually 20 years behind.” “Rather than squandering his most precious gift on someone who is unappreciative, God waits until Adam is prepared to appreciate the gift of the women.” -Bruce Walkey
“The woman was made of a rib out of the side of Adam; not made out of his head to rule over him, nor out of his feet to be trampled upon by him, but out of his side to be equal with him, under his arm to be protected, and near his heart to be beloved.”
― Matthew Henry, Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole Bible 18 Then the LORD God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; nI will make him a helper fit for1 him.” 19 oNow out of the ground the LORD God had formed every beast of the field and every bird of the heavens and brought them to the man to see what he would call them. And whatever the man called every living creature, that was its name.20 The man gave names to all livestock and to the birds of the heavens and to every beast of the field. But for Adam3 there was not found a helper fit for him. 21 So the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and while he slept took one of his ribs and closed up its place with flesh. 22 And the rib that the LORD God had taken from the man hemade4 into a woman and brought her to the man.
23 Then the man said,
“This at last is rbone of my bones
and flesh of my flesh;
she shall be called Woman,
because she was staken out of Man.”5
24 tTherefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh. 25 And the man and his wife were both naked and were not ashamed.
A simple definition of the word cult would be any sect of people bound together by devotion to a person, object or ideology. There are two streams of cults the protestant Christian church spinoffs and non-Christian new religious movements. In the church, we tend to think of cults as any sect of individuals united by devotion to any religion considered false, unorthodox, and counterfeit. However, with the continued influx of immigrants, the spiritual landscape of our nation is quickly changing. Despite many differences, cults have a set of general characteristics in common. Here is a list of the general characteristics of cults. These characteristics have been organized in an acronym to help you remember:
C = conflict with society – they do not follow the cultural norms of their surrounding culture, usually an overall reject all together. Examples of this may be a complete withdrawal from surrounding culture into compounds or small communities built for and by the group.
U = unfamiliar – distinct alternative patterns in fundamental areas of religious life. They deviate from Judeo-Christian teachings, symbols, and sources. This changes their theology, practice, and socially.
L = leader - a stong, charismatic leader with a high level of authority, who formulates dogmas, isolating members from others who do not support their beliefs.
T = totalism – complete commitment, the member becomes dependent on the group for psychological, social, religious, and physical needs. Often, strong and seemingly unnecessary boundaries are drawn in the areas of dress, diet, and names.
S = seeks experience- Oriented towards powerful subjective experiences and meeting personal needs. The group believes that they have exclusive rights to a long tradition of wisdom or practice either corrupted or lost in the mainstream.
I plan to post another blog about American new religious movements soon. For now keep praying for those caught up in these traps, 75% of them will leave within a year of joining. Many who leave cults will not trust religion, especially what they term “organized religion.” The church must be prepared to encourage, evangelize, and help them heal. Jesus is the only one who can free us from the bondage of our sin and the sins of others.
New religious movements are cults that formed in the past 150-175 years. They depart from the central teaching and symbols of normative to mainstream Judeo-Christian sources. NRMs often originate during times of high social stress, like in the United States in the 1840’s and 1960’s. NRMs function as form of modern shamanism. A shaman is one who communicates with gods, spirit world by ecstatic means. Here are characteristics of NRMs in American:
Your Verdict on the Empty Tomb
By: Travis Tyler
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the foundation of the Christian faith. It hinge belief that distinguishes Christianity from other religions. But is there any proof that the resurrection actually happened? Can we trust the accounts of the apostles who witnessed it? In his book, "Your Verdict on the Empty Tomb," Val Grieve explores the evidence for the resurrection and invites readers to make their verdict. Let's look at some of the proofs that Grieve presents.
Firstly, Grieve argues that the empty tomb itself is proof of the resurrection. The tomb was guarded by Roman soldiers, and the stone was sealed. It would have been impossible for anyone to move the stone and steal the body without being detected. Yet, on the third day, the tomb was empty. Grieve writes, "The tomb was empty on that first Easter morning, and it has remained empty ever since. The fact of the empty tomb is a powerful witness to the resurrection of Jesus Christ."
Lee Strobel, a former atheist and journalist, set out to investigate the evidence for the resurrection of Jesus Christ after his wife became a Christian. Strobel investigated the evidence for the empty tomb, including the fact that the tomb was sealed and guarded by Roman soldiers. He found that the evidence for the empty tomb was strong, and he was convinced that it could not be explained away as a misunderstanding or a theft.
Lee Strobel Said, "The evidence for Jesus' resurrection is so strong that nobody would question it except for two things: First, it is a very unusual event. And second, if you believe it happened, you have to change the way you live."
Secondly, Grieve points to the testimony of the women who first discovered the empty tomb. In the ancient world, the testimony of women was not considered reliable, yet the gospel writers record that it was women who first saw the risen Jesus. This detail adds credibility to the accounts, as it is unlikely that the gospel writers would invent such a detail. As Grieve writes, "The fact that the gospel writers recorded the testimony of women, despite the cultural bias against them, indicates that they were recording what actually happened."
Thirdly, Grieve argues that the transformation of the disciples is proof of the resurrection. Before the crucifixion, the disciples were fearful and scattered. Yet, after the resurrection, they were bold and unafraid, even in the face of persecution and death. Grieve writes, "Something happened to the disciples after the crucifixion that transformed them from fearful and defeated men into bold and courageous witnesses. The most plausible explanation for this transformation is that they had encountered the risen Jesus."
Strobel says, "The transformation of the disciples from fearful and disillusioned to bold and courageous witnesses is strong evidence that they truly believed that Jesus had risen from the dead. This transformation is inexplicable apart from the reality of the resurrection."
Fourthly, Grieve points to the fact that the early church believed in the resurrection. The church was founded on the belief that Jesus had risen from the dead, and this belief was central to the Christian faith. Grieve writes, "The early church was built on the conviction that Jesus had risen from the dead. This belief was not the result of wishful thinking or delusion, but of the convincing evidence that Jesus had indeed risen."
10 Reasons Christ Came to Die
APRIL 18, 2019 | CHANCE FAULKNER
Every year we celebrate the darkest day in all of history: we look to the Son of God, bruised, bleeding, stripped naked and crucified.
What is so good about “Good Friday”?
Here are ten Biblical realities to be meditating upon this Good Friday as we consider, and remember “Why did Christ have to die?” (from John Piper, 50 Reasons Christ Came to Die).
“In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” 1 Jn 4:10
“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace” Ephesians 1:7
“this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” Matthew 26:28
“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” Romans 3:23–24
“For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” 2 Corinthians 5:21
“he has now reconciled [you] in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him.” Colossians 1:22
“For Christ also suffered[a] once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit.” 1 Peter 3:18
“For Christ has entered, not into holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true things, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God on our behalf. Nor was it to offer himself repeatedly, as the high priest enters the holy places every year with blood not his own, for then he would have had to suffer repeatedly since the foundation of the world. But as it is, he has appeared once for all at the end of the ages to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself” Hebrews 9:24–26
“who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works.” Titus 2:14
To Absorb the Wrath of GodTo Show the Wealth of God’s Love and Grace for SinnersFor the Forgiveness of SinsTo Provide the Basis for our JustificationThat Completes the Obedience that Becomes our RighteousnessTo Make us Holy and BlamelessTo Bring us to GodTo Bring the Old Testament Priesthood to and End and Become the Eternal High PriestTo Create a People Passionate for Good WorksTo Make His Cross the Grounds of All Boasting“But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.” Galatians 6:14
Join us as we discuss 1 Kings, and talk about where our country sits in relation to God and his blessing on us. It's a topic for today. Join Us.
Four sections of 1 Kings
Section 1: Solomon's story (chapters 1-11)
Section 2: Division of the kingdom (chapters 12-14)
Section 3: Decline of the northern kingdom (chapters 15-16)
Section 4: Story of Elijah (chapters 17-22)