Acts 2:42 - Sacraments in Worship

Acts 2:42 - They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.

Message: Sacraments in Worship

Time: Clearly written by Luke, this book follows the lives of Peter and then Paul after Jesus' ascension into heaven. The book was completed about 62 AD as Paul sat in prison. It provides an account of the growth of the Church and spread from Jerusalem, from a small group of frightened believers in Jerusalem transformed into an empire-wide movement of people who had committed their lives to Jesus Christ, and it should help us to be bold and have zeal in our walks with God.

What the Lord is Saying: An initial thought here is thinking that those groups that want to pattern themselves off of the early church often don't realize that the scripture of the early church was often the Old Testament scriptures. So they would have been teaching of the Old Testament scriptures by the apostles as well as new revelation given by Christ. My guess is the sermon on the Mount was probably a big part of that teaching since it is probably the message that Jesus repeated the most. 

This verse in Acts mentions that the church devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and to fellowship. And also breaking of bread and to prayer. Even today, we want to mirror these practices. And yet I wonder if there becomes a desire by many to group these practices into almost a checklist of things that must be done by participants when people gather. I think checklist Christianity is a big concern because it becomes more about doing the checklist than exploring the relationship with Jesus. 

A couple of days ago I gave a ride to Albuquerque from Durango an engaged couple after I attended a wedding with them. As we discussed things, the gal asked me about the difference between Methodist and Baptist. It was an interesting question and one in which I found myself being stumped answering. From her perspective, having grown up attending non-denominational churches, she really did not understand the different between the two churches or beliefs and I found that I struggled in explaining it. 

And yet each of the denominations we have (Baptist, Lutheran, Presbyterian, Methodist, etc.) is really a product of a group of people that have come together to agree on a structure of how the Bible is to be applied and lived out and how worship is to be conducted each time people gather for worship -- after the reformation. I mention that because it seems that this idea of the application of sacraments is a chief reason for those different manifestations of churches or different denominations. Even those that call themselves non-denominations come together to agree upon something.

I referred to my Oxford Dictionary on the subject of Sacrament. It is a term not found in the Bible - but by the 3rd century was being used to describe baptism and the Lord's Supper or Eucharist. Later in the 16th century, at a time when the Reformation was occurring and Protestantism was becoming more prominent - the Council of Trent of 1564 defined 7 sacraments. The Council of Trent was the formal Roman Catholic reply to the doctrinal challenges of the Reformation.  These sacraments are Eucharist, Penance, Extreme Unction, Holy Orders, and Marriage. Again, hopefully the practice of these is not simply to perform a checklist but rather to experience the relation or encounter between God and human beings. 

As I personally think of these sacraments in my life and how I maybe grew up performing them (attending a Baptist church most of the time the emphasis was on baptism and Lord's Supper) - for me these acts represented an identification of my union with Christ - baptism and the Lord's Supper was an identification or union with Christ's death and resurrection. Baptism was a one time experience whereas the Lord's Supper was more often. Currently, I am content in this. Also, for both of these they are done in community  - with others and with Christ. There is a community testimony of sorts that occurs. I'm not sure if I see a problem with expanding these acts if churches have more of them as long as they remain an experience to identify with Christ and other believers. 

I do not think these are requirements of salvation, but I also think they are things the Christian would want to do as they encounter God. 

Summary: In our sacraments, we worship God, encountering God as we identify with Christ. At a minimum these acts should include baptism and Lord's Supper. 

Promise: Sacraments are public ordinances and we participate in them rightly in the context of public worship. 

Prayer: God, I come to You even in prayer to have community with You, to acknowledge You as God and my need for You daily and your help in my life. Thank you for this. Lord, you have clearly instituted ways in which we encounter You as we gather together - acts that we do together - such as baptism and the Lord's Supper. In these Lord are ways to come together and worship You and encounter You as both a Body and as individuals. Thank you for making these significant in our lives - to show us we are not alone and that we are about being a 'together' people. Give me patience as I come in contact with those that perhaps take a different perspective on these or have a greater emphasis on some items. Lord, keep us in communion with You and let these acts not simply be a checklist to perform in thinking doing them alone is what is needed. Keep helping me understand this Lord. I praise You. 

I John 2:19a - The Church We Can See

I John 2:19a - They went out from us, but they were not of us, for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us. 

Message: The Church We Can See

Time: The author of this book never was identified but contemporaries have attributed it to John and its dating is estimated to be 90 AD. John focused on three issues: the zeal of the believers, standing firm against false teachers, and reassuring the Christians that they have eternal life. 

What the Lord is Saying: 

I must admit, I read through this devotional one time yesterday and I was not sure what it was saying. So this morning, I opened up I John 2:19 and read it and looked at the context. It is speaking of the antichrist and proclaims -- 

They went out from us — Separated themselves from the communion of the true church of Christ. Hence it is one of the marks of antichrist, that he had been once in the Christian Church, and a teacher by profession, but had left it or apostatized; but they were not of us — When they went, their hearts were before departed from God; for if they had been of us — Had been inspired by the same spirit wherewith we are inspired; they would, no doubt, have continued with us — For upright men, of a pure intention, would never have seen any cause to leave us, and divine grace would have preserved such from being overcome by the temptations of these artful deceivers (Joseph Benson 1749-1821; one of the most eminent and influential Methodist ministers in England after the death of John Wesley).

Thus, the church as a community of believers coming together is needed. And yet those within the church are not all Christians. While the church is needed and important, it is also made up of people that are 'just visiting.' However, it is a community that is needed and the Word of God states it is not optional. I know many that are trying to navigate through life without it. They have served for a season and now think there lives don't need and can live away from it. 

From these verses we see that not everyone in the church is regenerate and yet the church is still relevant and needed and those unregenerate people still belong to a church. Thus, it is not only a place for regenerate people. Even unregenerate people can see the benefits of the church - a place to see the work of God's spirit living and active among people; a place to witness the blessings God gives to His church; and a place to hear the Word of God preached (Hebrews 6:4-5). 

It is true that none of us are omniscient (having complete understanding and insight into one another) and therefore knowing for sure the faith of one another. The church employs community by helping people see the importance of vowing to belong. This weekend, my wife and I are going to a church membership class. It is necessary to come together and know the importance of what the church believes and knowing what it means to belong. If we want to be involved, it is a requirement to serve. And often verification that one has been baptized is a condition of church membership or being involved in a local body for it signifies that we are all common believers. And in this process we corporately profess our faith. People acknowledge that they are committed to being together in the church. These are all good things and necessary things and things we are called to be about. Many will attend church and yet not partake of these things. The classes and profession and baptism are not required but offered and encouraged. 

But it is not only that we are called to become involved, but we are also privileged to be in a place where the Word of God is preached and receive the sacraments. Through this the Lord causes us to grow. Many a Sunday I am in church not feeling like being there, wondering what I am getting out of it, questioning things, evaluating the presentation, and yet I remain. I belong. God is growing me whether I see it or not, whether I acknowledge it or not. 

I Corinthians 10:16-18 - The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread. Consider the people of Israel: are not those who eat the sacrifices participants in the altar? (Thoughts: We are one; we come together to have communion, to partake of the sacrifices and in the process we participate in the Body of Christ and are one body.)

Hebrews 5:14 - But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil. (Thoughts: The regular preaching of the Word of God is not optional but needed in our lives. I am thankful for our church where the pastor faithful preaches the word and then we go to Sunday School to examine it further together.)

I Peter 2:2 - Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation. (Food is not a one time thing in our life. It is needed multiple times a day and the Word of God is the same way. We need it to grow in our believing life, each and every day.)

And yet people who belong to a church, that are exposed regularly to the word of God, need to come to truth. They need to eventually be a believer of Christ, belonging, baptized. We know from God's word that some will leave. But we also know those who are near to this message and yet don't ever follow through will incur a greater judgment (Luke 12:35-48).

And that servant who knew his master’s will but did not get ready or act according to his will, will receive a severe beating. But the one who did not know, and did what deserved a beating, will receive a light beating. Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more.

Summary: Belonging to a church is not optional, for anyone. We are meant though to come to saving faith, to belong, to partake of the sacraments, to live in a community with other believers, to hear the Word of God preached, and to grow. It is not an option. It is also a privilege. 

Promise: Except in rare circumstances, Scripture knows nothing of a Christian who is not part of the local, visible church. 

Prayer: Thank you God for church. You know I've always loved church and see that it is a community set apart for You. Thank you for being about church and that so many are involved and yet give discernment to people to be in a body that is aligned with Your truths. I pray for my friends who are not involved right now that they would see they never graduate from not being involved and that it is necessary always as a follower of Yours and that we need it. Help me to always stay close to You in this way and encourage this in others. Thank you God. 

Note: I follow the readings from the Tabletalk Magazine devotional, though I am now working through 2017 devotionals. 2017 is a study of key biblical doctrines celebrating the 500th year of the Reformation. The month of August is about the Body of the Lord - the Church recovered in the Reformation; July was the right use of God's Law; June was justification by faith alone; May about solus Christus - Christ Alone; April, salvation by grace alone; March, the sovereign providence of God; February, the doctrine of revelation, Scripture that sola Scriptura seeks to preserve; January, the doctrine of God.  

The Body of Christ - The Church is the Body of Christ and Christ loves the church. We are to imitate Christ and see that the Church is how Christ carries out His purposes in the world. The Head of the Church - Christ is Head of the church and he only has final authority and gives life to the church. Life is found only in Jesus Christ our Lord.

My Utmost for His Highest - May 12th - Make a Habit of Having no Habits

For if these things are yours and abound, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. - 2 Peter 1:8

    When we begin to form a habit we are conscious of it. There are times when we are conscious of becoming virtuous and patient and godly, but it is only a stage; if we stop there we shall get the strut of the spiritual prig. The right thing to do with habits is to lose them in the life of the Lord, until every habit is so practiced that there is no conscious habit at all. Our spiritual life continually resolves into introspection because there are some qualities we have not added as yet. Ultimately the relationship is to be a completely simple one.

    Your god may be your little Christian habit, the habit of prayer at stated times, or the habit of Bible reading. Watch how your Father will upset those times if you begin to worship your habit instead of what the habit symbolizes--I can't do that just now, I am praying; it is my hour with God. No, it is your hour with your habit. There is a quality that is lacking in you. Recognize the defect and then look for the opportunity of exercising yourself along the line of the quality to be added.

    Love means that there is no habit visible, you have come to the place where the habit is lost, and by practice you do the thing unconsciously. If you are consciously holy, there are certain things you imagine you cannot do, certain relationships in which you are far from simple; that means there is something to be added. The only supernatural life is the life the Lord Jesus lived, and He was at home with God anywhere. Is there anywhere where you are not at home with God? Let God press through in that particular circumstance until you gain Him, and life becomes the simple life of a child.

- From Oswald Chambers, "My Utmost for His Highest" - Classic Edition

Highlights and Underlines are courtesy of Mom from her print edition.

My thoughts

2 days ago Chambers talked about getting into the habit or maybe the practice of finding out daily what God says and coming to God about everything and today I think when he mentions losing habits it is thinking about our spiritual disciplines and how we need to make sure our habits don't keep us from our faith or our community with God. The focus is not on doing the habit but on the reason the habit is in place, to meet God and this may mean serving others. Be careful though that we don't get obsessed with the habit that we are forgetting the work of God in our lives. Jesus was at home with God anywhere and this is the idea - to be intertwined with the things of God that there are no habits, but rather this is how we live. 

My Utmost for His Highest - April 14th - Inspired Invincibility

Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. - Matthew 11:29

    "Whom the Lord loveth, He chasteneth. (Hebrews 12:6)" How petty our complaining is! Our Lord begins to bring us into the place where we can have communion with Him, and we groan and say--"O Lord, let me be like other people!" Jesus is asking us to take one end of the yoke--"My yoke is easy, get alongside Me and we will pull together. (Matthew 11:30)" Are you identified with the Lord Jesus like that? If so, you will thank God for the pressure of His hand.
    "To them that have no might He increaseth strength. (Isaiah 40:29)" God comes and takes us out of our sentimentality, and our complaining turns into a paean of praise. The only way to know the strength of God is to take the yoke of Jesus upon us and learn of Him.
    "The joy of the Lord is your strength. (Nehemiah 8:10)" Where do the saints get their joy from? If we did not know some saints, we would say--"Oh, he, or she, and nothing to bear." Lift the veil. The fact that the peace and the light and the joy of God are there is proof that the burden is there too. The burden God places squeezes the grapes and out comes the wine; most of us see the wine only. No power on earth or in hell can conquer the Spirit of God in a human spirit, it is an inner unconquerableness.
    If you have the whine in you, kick it out ruthlessly. It is a positive crime to be weak in God's strength.

From Oswald Chambers, "My Utmost for His Highest" - Classic Edition

- Highlights and Underlines courtesy of Mom from her print edition. 

Acts 15:1-35 - Interpreting Scripture with the Church

Acts 15:1-35

6 The apostles and elders met to consider this question

Message: Interpreting Scripture with the Church

Time: Clearly written by Luke, this book follows the lives of Peter and then Paul after Jesus' ascension into heaven. The book was completed about 62 AD as Paul sat in prison. It provides an account of the growth of the Church and spread from Jerusalem, from a small group of frightened believers in Jerusalem transformed into an empire-wide movement of people who had committed their lives to Jesus Christ, and it should help us to be bold and have zeal in our walks with God.

What the Lord is Saying:

Scripture is the only infallible authority in our lives. Scripture will not fail us. But there are other authorities we can use in our lives, namely the Church or those within it. We can learn from other people's insights into the Scriptures because the Holy Spirit is present in lives that are surrendered to God. 

I think the point here today is that we need each other and it is important in reading Scripture to read commentators, depend on the Holy Spirit, but also talk about among people that believe the Bible is inspired and infallible.

I've knocked the idea of Roman Catholics and that the Bishops and apostles of the church throughout the 1000 years or so that there was not a printing press would herald the teaching of God's word and so it basically became a think to just let the Bishops discern the meaning of God's word. But, I think in some ways we all do this or have a tendency to align ourselves with some speaker and trust his interpretation. And yet, I think the point is that this doesn't mean that we don't study the Word ourselves and don't have regular Bible study ourselves. I don't know what it was like growing up in the 14th century and prior. Perhaps church involved meeting together after a message and talking about the sermon.

Discerning the will of God in our lives is a difficult venture. We all have different feelings about our faith and approach it in different ways. At times, yes, we have similar alignment to the truth. Bt, I think we need to be careful to assemble together and to always make that a priority in our lives. In Acts 15, Paul and Barnabas took time to think about this question of circumcision and men from Judea saying that it was imperative for salvation. They concluded that grace is what is key in our lives. The grace of God has been present throughout history - in the time of Moses and Abraham and the giving of the Law and present in their time, following the raising of Jesus from the dead. Grace is what was key in all of this not sticking to rules. Rules are needed in our lives, but not to bring about salvation. Paul and Barnabas took time to think about what was being said but also trusted in the Holy Spirit and what He was speaking to them and leading them.

I need to make sure I am doing the same thing as I listen, study, read the Word of God. 

Promise: I need to be willing to submit myself to the authority of the church and those that have studied the Word of God. I need to seek to read Scripture with the church and to learn from others both past and present. 

Prayer: Lord, keep me diligent in the personal study of Your Word. Give me discernment continually as I listen to those that are around and state their understanding of Your Words. Thank you for the wonderful individuals that have taken the time to study and learn Your word and understand it. 

Note: I follow the readings from the Tabletalk Magazine devotional, though I am a little behind and working through 2017 devotionals. 2017 is a study of key biblical doctrines with February being about the doctrine of revelation and the various aspects of the doctrine of Scripture that sola Scriptura seeks to preserve.

John 17:20-26 - The Trinity and God's Love for His People

John 17:20-26
20 “I do not ask on behalf of these alone, but for those also who believe in Me through their word; 21 that they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me.
22 The glory which You have given Me I have given to them, that they may be one, just as We are one; 23 I in them and You in Me, that they may be perfected in unity, so that the world may know that You sent Me, and loved them, even as You have loved Me. 24 Father, I desire that they also, whom You have given Me, be with Me where I am, so that they may see My glory which You have given Me, for You loved Me before the foundation of the world.
25 “O righteous Father, although the world has not known You, yet I have known You; and these have known that You sent Me; 26 and I have made Your name known to them, and will make it known, so that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them.”

Message: The Trinity and God's Love for His People

Time: While John does not admit to have written this gospel, there is ample evidence from others that he did. It was most likely written in Ephesus around 85-95 AD and is the fourth gospel. John provides a Jesus more clearly as the Son of God. John cites Jesus' seven "I Am" statements, mentions many miracles of Jesus, signifying Him as God's Son. He is the Son of Man and atoned for our sins and the Son of God with eternal implications in rising from the dead.

What the Lord is Saying:

This study, on the doctrine of God, has been illuminating to me as I endeavor to better understand the God that loves me - chose me - wants me to be with Him forever. Today, I see that Jesus with the Father has always been. God's love for Jesus has been present before the foundation of the world.  Yesterday the message was often about unity and this message continues today.

For a moment, I pause to look at the words from Matthew Henry about this passage:

Our Lord especially prayed, that all believers might be as one body under one head, animated by one soul, by their union with Christ and the Father in him, through the Holy Spirit dwelling in them. The more they dispute about lesser things, the more they throw doubts upon Christianity. Let us endeavour to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace, praying that all believers may be more and more united in one mind and one judgment. Thus shall we convince the world of the truth and excellence of our religion, and find more sweet communion with God and his saints. Christ, as one with the Father, claimed on behalf of all that had been given to him, and should in due time believe on him, that they should be brought to heaven; and that there the whole company of the redeemed might behold his glory as their beloved Friend and Brother, and therein find happiness. He had declared and would further declare the name or character of God, by his doctrine and his Spirit, that, being one with him, the love of the Father to him might abide with them also. Thus, being joined to Him by one Spirit, they might be filled with all the fulness of God, and enjoy a blessedness of which we can form no right idea in our present state.

There is oneness with the Trinity in these verses that is expected to be present in all believers. I'm noticing, even moreso today than ever, that the world expects complete uniformity in all areas and finds disputes about many things. The church needs to be about more than this and needs to not dispute about lesser things but instead endeavor to keep the unity. That unity is present in the Godhead and Jesus mentions in this passage the unity found in His relationship with the Father. They are one. This oneness is addressed not to all people, but to all believers. As believers, we do all have different flavors of believing but we need to be more of a people of oneness and realize we are all serving our God together and our chief mission together is to reach all with the Gospel. 

I notice that our church often does a good job with this and it is always something that has interested me about our church and the community desire to work together toward the gospel with other churches. As believers we to love one another, bear one another's burdens, and edify one another. As churches, all too often our focus is each body trying to figure out their mission whether than doing it together. O Lord, what would it look like if we were united together? 

Promise: On our own, love is not easy. We tend to focus on our differences rather than our unity. But we can be a people of love toward one another. God's love for us never stops and our love toward one another is to never stop as well. Unite us Lord. 

Prayer: These verses that I read today from John 17 speak Lord of unity. Lord, we need to be a people united. Lord, I think of this and wonder how we could do this and make this work in our community. We are a people with differences obviously in our worship styles, our preaching, our makeup in the churches, but we should be more about the same purpose and working together for that purpose in our community. There needs to be more unity. 

Note: I follow the readings from the Tabletalk Magazine devotional, though I am a little behind and working through 2017 devotionals. 2017 is a study of key biblical doctrines with January being about the doctrine of God.

Mark 1:16-20 - Jesus Calls the First Disciples

Mark 1:16-20
16 As He was going along by the Sea of Galilee, He saw Simon and Andrew, the brother of Simon, casting a net in the sea; for they were fishermen. 17 And Jesus said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men.” 18 Immediately they left their nets and followed Him. 19 Going on a little farther, He saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who were also in the boat mending the nets.20 Immediately He called them; and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired servants, and went away to follow Him.

Message: Jesus Calls the First Disciples

Time: Mark's personal connection with Peter gave him the source material for this book. This book was composed probably between AD 57 and AD 59. It's a book that is on the move, leading to the cross. 39 times is the word immediately used. Mark reveals Jesus as God's servant, reaching into the lives of people and effecting physical and circumstantial change.

What the Lord is Saying:

This is the gospel of Jesus Christ. Mark begins with the fulfillment of prophecy and John preparing the way of the Lord. John proclaimed repentance, forgiveness of sin, and baptism. Jesus would come though and baptize with the Holy Spirit. At Jesus' baptism is the union of Jesus, the Spirit, and the Father. Jesus is tempted for 40 days by Satan, but he is not alone; the Spirit ministers to him. Jesus message is the gospel of God - repent and believe. And now he introduces the next step - following Him with the purpose of becoming fishers of men.

Life to me is always about being together, about community, about fellowship. I think the world often thinks we need to be independent and is focused on protecting individual freedoms and rights. Here, Jesus is not setting out to minister on his own. He is calling disciples to come alongside. He knows he is not alone as the Spirit is ministering to him in the wilderness, the Father expressing to him at the baptism he is beloved -- it is clear that our faith is about being together.

Here, Jesus saw Simon and Andrew casting nets and John and James mending nets. To each pair he called them to come follow him. Thus far, Mark has been brief in his descriptions so I would guess this one is brief as well. It's hard to fathom that it was a simple request and response that occurred here. It makes a little more sense that there might have been some discussion. The outcome was the same, they left and followed. They left probably their business as fishermen, providing a staple food at this time, so what they did was in high demand. And it is hard to think they really understood what the future held. I tend to also think that the gospel message is something they had already heard because following is our response to repenting and believing in Jesus. And our desire to follow is stronger because we have repented and believed.

I think too often the message on earth is simply to believe. And what is lost is the bookend of that belief - to repent and then to follow. Mark shows that James and his brother John left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired servants. I don't know if the father was working or just there, if the father was older or younger and able to lead the charge still. What we do know is two brothers left to follow Jesus. Perhaps the father encouraged them. That is a possibility but what is key is that they followed.

At this point, I am also thinking about that Jesus is asking them to become fishers of men. Jesus will be preaching the gospel and many will follow, but disciples will be fishers of men. Some commentators think there are distinctive roles. Rather than being full-time laborers, like fishermen, these men are now going to follow Jesus and see what that is about. I imagine they are not really sure, but Jesus is someone they want to know more.

Promise: The disciple was necessary in Jesus' ministry life. He knew his time was short and he wanted men with him to learn from him so that they could pass on what he taught them.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for this message. I must admit, I struggle a little now in understanding all of its ramifications and what it means, but that is fine. I am following you, like these disciples and I am waiting to discover all that you want to teach me through that process. As I follow you, help me to continue to preach the message of the gospel in my life, calling people to repentance and to believe. Give me your strength each day and remind me that my life is not just about me, but its about others and having life together.

Galatians 3:23-29 - All Sons and Daughters

Galatians 3:23-29
23 But before faith came, we were kept in custody under the law, being shut up to the faith which was later to be revealed. 24 Therefore the Law has become our tutor to lead us to Christ, so that we may be justified by faith. 25 But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor.26 For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. 27 For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.29 And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s descendants, heirs according to promise.

Message: All Sons and Daughters (presented by Josh Swanson, Hope Church, Eastside, August 28, 2017)

Time: Paul wrote to the churches in southern Galatia after having a hand in starting them on his first missionary journey to Asia Minor. Paul wrote the book a few months before his attendance at the Jerusalem Council in AD 49. The Galatians fell away quickly from the gospel of grace Paul had preached to them and their disloyalty to Paul’s authority as an apostle. Paul began the letter defending that very issue. In chapter 3 he begin to get to the heart of their error; namely, that these Galatians sought to be justified by the Mosaic Law. In contrast, Paul presented his argument that justification comes to people by faith in Jesus Christ, not by their works under the Law.

What the Lord is Saying:

Josh started out with a discussion of orphans, mentioning how many of our stories in movies and characters are about people that are orphans. We all have a need to belong - to be embraced - we connect with characters - humanity feels a lostness - alienation - we feel disconnected - we feel homeless - the Bible speaks to this - answers the question “What is wrong with me?” - Adam/Eve paradise lost; Paul strangers and aliens (Not of this world) - Yet God is the healer of what is wrong - God brings reconciliation - God adopts us, bringing us home.

The key message of today's text comes from verse 26 - For you are all sons of God

1. Before Faith - Israel is confined by laws, ceremonies, rituals.
1. But this was temporary
2. in Christ, we are full sons of God
3. in Ch. 4, we are moved from slaves to sons
2. Rich Text - we are heirs, so what does this mean
1. In Exodus  - children of Israel were brought out of slavery
2. Reason you are a son is being united with Jesus
3. What is true for Jesus in his relationship with God is also true for us
4. Verse 26 says "All" and in verse 28, "all one" (I was reminded of the Sheila Walsh song from the 80s, "We're all one.")
3. Adoption as defined in the Greco Roman world
1. Families cared for families, specifically Jewish
2. But in Greco-roman world adoptions occurred
3. 7 or 8 Caesar leaders were adopted; Caesar Augustus was adopted by Julius Caesar to maintain the hierarchy
4. Octavion said that Julius thought by Octavion to be one of God's so Caesar Augustus gave him the name son of God.
5. Every President of the United States makes a similar claim that he will make America great again
6. This is the tone in this world that Paul proclaims his message
4. Jesus divests himself to the lowest type of person - "a slave"
1. The meaning of adoption in that day was infant exposure or taking a child and throwing it on the trash heap where it would end up a slave or in brothels and have no dignity or worth
2. Jesus becomes the lowest class person once again - "We are all sons of God."
3. The only recipient of heirs are sons, but God here is making everyone a recipient; this is an explosive message
5. This was a radical message
1. A whole new community; our new identity in Christ
2. But do we show partiality in our faith
3. Do we treat each other the same?
4. God is forming a new community
5. It's a new social movement
1. western nations all have dignity and worth (humanistic values)
2. equally birthed in Christian movement
3. Luke Ferry, philosopher in France wrote - "Christianity introduced concept that all classes of people have equal identity; Christianity was the pre-cursor of modern democracy; "All men are created equal."
4. people like equal dignity
5. Civil Rights movement is another example
6. All these movements ideas, at their core, is found in Jesus Christ's message of adoption of the lowest class of people
7. Do we care about everyone?
6. A new Vision of God
1. In the pantheon of god's you go to a different god to get what you want
2. But everywhere Jesus calls him My Father
3. He invites us into same relationship
4. How do I become a child of God?
7. What has God done for us
1. God becomes man, a slave, exile, suffers, dies
2. Every time Jesus speaks to God he calls him "Father" except for 1, when he is dying on the cross
3. Faith is the open hand that receives the gift
4. Turn from wandering to welcoming
5. Read the prayer of belief

Prayer of Belief: Lord, Jesus Christ, I admit that I am weaker and more sinful than I ever imagined, but through you, I am more loved and accepted than I ever dared to hope. I thank you for paying my debt, bearing my punishment, and offering forgiveness. I turn from my sins and receive you as Savior. Amen. 

This is a strong message. We are all children of God. There are no class systems. The true message of the Gospel is everyone is a priest. We are all made in the image of God. Jesus was a different kind of leader, he submitted himself to others. Each person is filled by Jesus' presence. The new humanity is one of equality.

Promise: We are all full sons of God. We are this way because of our unity with Christ. What is true of Jesus is true of me. I have been adopted. All men are created equal.

Prayer: Lord, it is difficult sometimes to see how we are trained in this world. It is hard to see the messages of church and religion and the separation that takes place between people in society. Lord, thank you that this isn't your message. Lord, you came to save us. You came to make us fellow heirs of the promise. You came to remind us we are all made in your image. Thank you for showing us this about ourselves and seeing such value in us. Thank you for truth. Thank you for making me a son of God.

Proverbs 27:17 - Sharpening One Another

Proverbs 27:17

Iron sharpens iron,
So one man sharpens another.

Message: Sharpening One Another

Time: It seems that Proverbs was written and then compiled sometime between the tenth and sixth centuries B.C. Proverbs was probably written during the reign of Solomon, 971-931 B.C.

What the Lord is Saying: I have been privileged for the last 10 years to meet with 3 other guys weekly for prayer, accountability, and at times bible study or book study. It came about from a men's conference I attended that many years ago, put on by my former youth pastor now turned senior pastor. He was the pastor for 2 of the guys that would originally be a part of the group that we formed. A 3rd guy would get involved with us about 4 years later.

In my experience of my faith, it has been THE catalyst for my continued spiritual growth and development. These are guys that I can talk real with each and every week. If there is a sin I am struggling with, they help encourage me and keep me accountable and with 3 guys someone generally is struggling with that sin as well.

As my kids age and as we are fathers and husbands, those relationships need constant encouragement. We are supposed to be the spiritual leaders of our family and that needs encouragement. Honestly, without these guys and this time to simply talk about life and what is going on, I just don't know how I survive. Granted, I still sin. I still struggle but I always know that these guys have my back.

I have been fortunate enough to help start another men's group and that group just disbanded after being together for 5+ years. I think every man needs this. We are not 4 guys that are unique, but it is just common sense that we need each other. Yes, it is good to have friends you can talk with regularly and pray with regularly, but it is another thing to schedule that time week after week. It is just a normal routine part of our lives.

At times we study books to help encourage us further, but generally it is just talking about life and then challenging each other in the relationships that God has given us. I need these guys, every day, I need them more. As Hebrews 10:24-25 says, "and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near." I've always taken this verse to mean that we need this encouraging every day a little bit more. As the day of Jesus' coming nears, we need each other more. 

It is true as the verse in Proverbs states, iron does sharpen iron. This is not a quick process. Tabletalk states here: 

Giving a tool the desired sharpness took time in the ancient world, as there were no electric whetstones or other sharpening devices. Persistent, careful striking of the tool against the sharpener was required, and the process lasted longer than a matter of seconds. Thus, the proverb is underscoring the importance of persistence in friendship. One man does not sharpen another with just one speech or dialogue, though words spoken in the right season can go quite far in helping improve another person. Instead, people sharpen one another over time, through years of friendship and all of the ins and outs that come with enduring relationships. A truly constructive friend is faithful over time to offer his criticism and instruction, and he does not give up the first time his friend does not heed his advice.

Promise: We all need others in our lives to sharpen us and encourage us.

Jesus Calling: December 13

Take time to be holy. The word holy does not mean goody-goody; it means set apart for sacred use. That is what these quiet moments in My Presence are accomplishing within you. As you focus your mind and heart on Me, you are being transformed: re-created into the one I designed you to be. This process requires blocks of time set aside for communion with Me.
     The benefits of this practice are limitless. Emotional and physical healing are enhanced by your soaking in the Light of My Presence. You experience a nearness to Me that strengthens your faith and fills you with Peace. You open yourself up to receive the many blessings that I have prepared for you. You become a cleaned temple of My Holy Spirit, who is able to do in and through you immeasurably more than you ask or imagine. These are just some of the benefits of being still in My Presence. 

2 Thessalonians 1:10
English Standard Version
when he comes on that day to be glorified in his saints, and to be marveled at among all who have believed, because our testimony to you was believed.

Psalm 27:4
English Standard Version
One thing have I asked of the Lord,
    that will I seek after:
that I may dwell in the house of the Lord
    all the days of my life,
to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord
    and to inquire in his temple.
 
1 Corinthians 6:19
English Standard Version
Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own,
 
Ephesians 3:20
English Standard Version
Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us,

My Prayer
I was reminded today that Jesus went off to a secluded place to recharge himself, so the Father would confirm his mission of preaching the Gospel. Lord, I need this each day. It is too easy to get distracted in this world. I want to be guided by your power, to be led by Your Spirit, to dwell in the house of the Lord, and to glorify You God. Make me holy. 

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Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author.

Also, bookmark https://bibletags.blogspot.com/2019/06/jesus-calling-366-days.html to have an easy link to the entire year of these entries.

Proverbs 17:17 - True Friendship

Proverbs 17:17
A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

Message: True Friendship

Time: It seems that Proverbs was written and then compiled sometime between the tenth and sixth centuries B.C. Proverbs was probably written during the reign of Solomon, 971-931 B.C.

What the Lord is Saying:

I don't think I realized completely the importance of having good friends. For the past 10 years, starting in 2006 I have been meeting with other men weekly for reflection on the week and prayer. We have also had times of study together going through various books, but overall, what makes this discussion most beneficial is simply the time we spend talking about life and then praying for one another. I believe that my spiritual growth has been different in these last 10 years than other years and I believe that time with these men has been the catalyst in the growth of me and my faith. I am very thankful for them. In addition, I'm thankful for weekly witnessing that I have been doing with another friend in which we go to the mall to share truth with people and gauge where they are spiritually. I think we have been doing this for about 5-7 years now. It is through these relationships that I have begun to understand and realize this verse more that a friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. 

There is nothing more special that to have a friend by your side. We need each other. I have been blessed with many special friends over the years. I so appreciate having these men in my life. I'm not sure why I have so many, but it is definitely good for my soul.

God, thank you for bringing other people into my life and proving men that I can speak to and will encourage me and challenge me. Thank you for the older men friends I have and their wisdom. I'm very thankful for this and I pray that Pamela would grow to have similar friendships in her life. Thank you for the people that have reached out to her and thank you for the time of late that we have been able to share time together doing a book study on the Word of God.

Promise: Jesus is the one friend that will never leave us or forsake us.  

Promise:

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 - Strength in Numbers

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor.  For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion. But woe to the one who falls when there is not another to lift him up.  Furthermore, if two lie down together they keep warm, but how can one be warm alone?   And if one can overpower him who is alone, two can resist him. A cord of three strands is not quickly torn apart.
  
Message: Two are better than One

Time: Solomon's authorship is not stated. Solomon's reign as king of Israel lasted from around 970 B.C. to around 930 B.C. The Book of Ecclesiastes was likely written towards the end of his reign, approximately 935 B.C.
 
What the Lord is Saying: 

Today's message is simple, as many are. The Preacher (writer of Ecclesiastes), through his travels and life journey, is now simply making the statement that, "Two are better than one" and then following this statement shows why this is so, giving a few examples. 

To start, the Tabletalk reading for the day made the comment that after each day of the creation story that God created, the end of the day was marked with the words, what God has made is good, but in regards to the creation of man, the remark was it is not good for man to be alone. We need each other, but more specifically, though we continue to need each other and community, the relationship between a man and a woman is unlike any other relationship, and this is why God made sure that man knew that the solution to him was not another person like him, but instead a woman. The woman completed the man. 

And yet, this particular passage is not necessarily communicating just about men and women, but it is putting forth the idea that two people, such as two men or two women or a man and a woman, two people are better than one. And our lives are a testimony of this. We do not want to do life alone. We want to have a friend and often young people, my children, are drawn to have at least one very good friend. And having that one person that shares your interests and that you walk with each day is very important to our lives. 

And this continues throughout life. As I go out and witness or share faith with others, having my friend with me makes it much easier. We are there to help each other if one stumbles. We challenge each other. There is teamwork in the discussion. We are drawn to fellowship with other people, seeking accountability and encouragement from one another. 

They have a good return for their labor
One thing I notice around the house is how much easier it is to do the dishes when 2 people are working on it together or how much easier it is to do a project outside. It just gets easier with 2 people versus just one. It's a simple concept. It's very simple. Yet, it is something I need to be reminded. 

If either falls, the one will lift up his companion
This is what makes labor or life or anything easier, one is there to pick us up.  

If two lie down together they keep warm
This reference is not necessarily for a husband and wife, but rather two people traveling together. It is better to have someone to lie next to, to give comfort and to keep warm. Again, we need each other. It makes life more bearable. 

If one overpowers one then two can resist him
Once again, if two people are present, when one is attacked, the other person is there to come to the aid. This is key because often the goal of any group is to divide people and make them to have discord among one another. Our children, can do this, in trying to pit mom against dad. The desire is to get what they want and so they 

Three are even better
I have often heard this phrase used to say that with man and woman together, then add in the Holy Spirit (thus three) and the cord is not quickly torn apart. The only problem with this is if the Holy Spirit is present, the cord would never be torn apart. But, in the context it really is simply saying that two are better than one and three are even better. 

Promise: Don't go it alone. It's better, any way you slice it, to be with others. 

Jesus Calling: September 25

Poor all of your energy into trusting Me. It is through trust you stay connected to me, aware of My Presence. Every step on your life – journey can be a step of faith. Baby steps of trust are simple for you; you can take them with almost unconscious ease. Giant steps are another matter altogether: leaping across chasms in semidarkness, scaling cliffs of uncertainty, trudging through the valley of the shadow of death. These feats require sheer concentration, as well as utter commitment to Me.
    Each of My children is a unique blend of temperament, giftedness, and life experiences. Something that is a baby step for you may be a giant step for another person, and vice versa. Only I know the difficulty or ease of each segment of your journey. Beware of trying to impress others by acting as if your giant steps are only baby ones. Do not judge others who hesitate, in trembling fear, before an act that would be easy for you. If each of My children would seek to please Me above all else, fear of others' judgments would vanish, as would attempts to impress others. Focus your attention on the path just ahead of you and on the One who never leaves your side.

Psalm 23:4
English Standard Version

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
    I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
    your rod and your staff,
    they comfort me.

Matthew 7:1–2
^{English Standard Version} 

“Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you.

Proverbs 29:25

English Standard Version   The fear of man lays a snare,     but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe.

Thoughts (2019)

The comparison trap is a huge one in life. If I can just walk through life, with My Savior, and not look to my left and right, at my neighbor, at my friends at what they are doing, at what they have and simply stay focused on my relationship with God, then all is fine. The problem is I do stop and stare and in the process I begin to question my Maker. I must return to the Word each day and examine in light of the gifts that God has given me. He has gifted me, but in a unique way. And my responsibility is to lay hold of those gifts and use them for His glory. At times, I actually think that life would be better if everyone was just like me. I want everyone to have my temperament, and often think my life experiences make me greater than others. Jesus meets each of us right where we are. 

Prayer (2019)
Lord, forgive me for the thoughts I have inside of me, that stir in my head. Rarely do they come out of my mouth. If they do, I am embarrassed, but you know me, all of me, and you hear my thoughts of envy, of me thinking I am better than others. Lord, there are good things that happen to friends in my life and yet I often want them to fall and experience hardship. I want to come out on top. I want to get the medals and thought of as the great one. Lord, free me from myself. Help me to rejoice more in the victories of others and come alongside those who are hurting. I am not in a race with others. I want to be a man of integrity - inside and out. Take me there. 

Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author.


Also, bookmark https://bibletags.blogspot.com/2019/06/jesus-calling-366-days.html to have an easy link to the entire year of these entries. 

Jesus Calling: July 8

When you seek My Face, put aside thoughts of everything else. I am above all, as well as in all; your communion with Me transcends both time and circumstances. Be prepared to be blessed bountifully by My Presence, for I am the God of unlimited abundance. Open wide your heart and mind to receive more and more of Me. When your Joy in Me meets My Joy in you, there are fireworks of heavenly ecstasy. This is eternal life here and now; a tiny foretaste of what awaits you in the life to come. Now you see only a poor reflection as in a mirror, but then you will see face to Face. 

John 15:11
English Standard Version

These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.

Verse Thoughts
From John Calvin - By the word abide he means, that it is not a fleeting or temporary joy of which he speaks, but a joy which never fails or passes away.
 
I Corinthians 13:12
English Standard Version

For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known.

Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author. 







Also, bookmark https://bibletags.blogspot.com/2019/06/jesus-calling-366-days.html to have an easy link to the entire year of these entries.

Romans 14:19 - Peace and Mutual Upbuilding

Romans 14:19 - So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.

Message: Building others up

Time: Written in AD 57 from Greece, to the Christians, both Gentile and Jewish in Rome

What the Lord is Saying:

So let us then definitely aim for and eagerly pursue what makes for harmony and for mutual upbuilding of one another. - Amplified

So then we must always aim at those things that bring peace and that helps strengthen one another. - Living Bible

Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another. - New King James Version

For me, the overriding theme I see from this text is having a concern for others. It is a willingness to put aside my own momentary desires or wants in order to build up another person.

The beginning of verse 19 has the same thought in mind in each translation with the phrases, "let us pursue" or "we must always aim" or "let us definitely aim or eagerly pursue". Thus, this isn't a statement of, oh by the way. The overriding thought of the believer in his relations to one another is to seek peace. This is something that is definitive and means I must make a special effort.

Philippians 2:3 says, "do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than ourselves."

I do not think that this means we cannot disagree. I also do not think that this context means unity in thought. Right now, in my life, I am in in a state of personal sacrifice as I raise my children. Their needs are greater than mine own. However, This does not mean I give them everything they want. But I am the parent, the authority, often the strong person, and I need to behave in such a way that I am aiming for eagerly pursuing peace in our relationship. This presents a challenge. It is a daily struggle. I have a need to provide for my family and do those things that are best for them and it is hard to navigate between what they want and what I think is best. I tend to err on the side of giving them what they want which is often at the expense of my own desires. I hope that I am making the right decision but I also think I get too focused on thinking there is only one right decision. I guess I just hope that by giving them what they want I am not harming them.

Well, back to the passage.

I think it is somewhat of a given that I am going to do what's best for myself. And so it is necessary to be reminded that I am to build up others. One of my favorite verses is Ephesians 4:29, which to me says we are to not tear down others with our words, but edify them, or bring them up. 

Warren Wiersbe says that our desire is not to get everyone to agree with us, but to pursue peace. Don't cause others to stumble, but help them to grow and mature in Christ. 

One of the things I liked about attending a small church was the building up that takes place among different age groups. And yet small churches don't always yield this. I attended a small church and people lived in a rural area and were accustomed to being to themselves and not opening up or sharing much. So, the small church didn't guarantee community. 

I've noticed that some churches have two different services, catering to different likes of worship styles. The problem is this manufactures separation rather than community. It may not be the intent, but it is tragic that we cannot compromise.
 
Promise: If I desire to focus on others and everyone does this, then each person's needs will be met.

Jesus Calling: March 3

    I love you for who you are, not for what you do. Many voices vie for control of your mind, especially when you sit in silence. You must learn to discern what is My voice and what is not. Ask My Spirit to give you this discernment. Many of My children run around in circles, trying to obey the various voices directing their lives. This results in fragmented, frustrating patterns of living. Do not fall into this trap. Walk closely with Me each moment, listening for My directives and enjoying My Companionship. Refuse to let other voices tie you up in knots. My sheep know My voice and follow Me wherever I lead. 

Ephesians 4:1-6
English Standard Version
I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

John 10:4
English Standard Version
When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice.

This does remind me of what I've been reading in Zechariah, Ezekiel, and Jeremiah. These books often speak of Israel's faithfulness and God does not welcome their actions of disobedience, but His gracious acts are because of who He is. It's not that He looks past the sin, but His goodness is greater than we could ever know. It's a great reminder of His love for us.

I need to pray and lean on the Spirit for His guidance. Walk closely with the Lord each day. The Lord is before us and we follow Him. Not because of what we see, but because of what we hear. We know His voice.

Walk. Walk in a way that mirrors what God has done for me. Be humble because He is humble. Be gentle towards others because He has been gentle towards Me. Have patience with myself and other people. Why? Because He has been patient with me. Come alongside one another in Love. Why? Because God's Spirit is in us and wants us to be united. There is oneness in Christ, in God, in faith -- so there must be oneness in each other. The oneness isn't a command because of anything but our position in Christ.

My Prayer
Lord, give me the strength each day to stand firm in Christ. I pray that I would practice humility, gentleness, patience, and a love community.

Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author.