Exodus 19:1-6 - One People Throughout History

Exodus 19:1-6 - On the third new moon after the people of Israel had gone out of the land of Egypt, on that day they came into the wilderness of Sinai. 2 They set out from Rephidim and came into the wilderness of Sinai, and they encamped in the wilderness. There Israel encamped before the mountain, 3 while Moses went up to God. The Lord called to him out of the mountain, saying, “Thus you shall say to the house of Jacob, and tell the people of Israel: 4 ‘You yourselves have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles' wings and brought you to myself. 5 Now therefore if you will indeed obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples, for all the earth is mine, and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. These are the words that you shall speak to the people of Israel.”

Message: One People Throughout History

Time: Moses is the most likely author of this book. His education and early tradition make him the likely author and it says in Exodus 24:4 that he wrote what the Lord said. The title Exodus means departure of Israel from Egypt by the hand of God. The book covers 80 years, from 1526 to 1446 with the events at Mount Sinai. God fulfilling promises and his story of redemption are the central ideas. 

What the Lord is Saying: 

The Apostle's creed states a belief in the church, the true Christian true at all times and in all places and the communion of the saints. I'm reminded of the conversations I've been having the past several years now with pastors and lay people throughout Africa. For the most part I don't know if these churches have affiliations with denominations. Some may but as I converse with these folks, what is central is people's relationship with God. We share scripture and study it and I'm encouraged. And know that we are all part of the church. Thus, there is unity. 

And yet as I've discussed there isn't unity. There are disagreements. And yet as I've grown up my mom was always listening to different pastors and teachers, like Chuck Swindoll regularly and Focus on the Family. Chuck was part of an EV Free church in Fullerton, California. Focus was in California and then later Colorado Springs. And even when I worked at Bibles Plus and saw all of these author's. There seemed to be a real unity among Christians in these books and teachings. That it didn't matter much what church you attended or led or maybe it wasn't talked about. What mattered was the doctrines and in this way it made the invisible church visible. And that seems to be what is being emphasized today. 

Ephesians 4:1-16 speaks of this unity. I looked at these verses yesterday and am reminded again of verse 2 and 3 - bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Again, this I believe is the church at large and goes beyond our local assemblies. I see this often as my mission with the online ministry I have been involved with -- GMO -- to bear with one another in love and maintain unity. And then in verses 11 and 12 realizing that different people have different gifts and all are there to help us grow and be equipped - And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ. Again, we are a bigger team than only our local assembly. Even myself, and the friends I have, like Bobby who attends a non-denominational church and Fred, who attends a different one, and Scott in Oklahoma, and Lance in Oklahoma, and Craig who is at the Presbyterian church and Karl and my brother T and his wife Brooke and Tyson and Megan and Brandon at their church in Colorado and my mom when she was alive and attended a different Baptist church and Janice (and Walt when he was alive) in Grand Junction -- everyone is at different places and yet involved in equipping me and building up the body of Christ. 

Even the church of the Old Testament days and the church in the New Testament times, the church throughout the next 2000 years and the church today - we all make up this Church Body, striving to become visible while we know that God is the one that defines us all together as the invisible church. 

And this brings us to our reading today, how this old testament people or church is with us today and part of us today -- you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples, for all the earth is mine, and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. Yes, Jews and Gentiles are distinct but we are also one and there can be unity among us that share the same doctrines and truths. 

Summary: We can see how the invisible church can be made visible. People in all walks of life, different parts of the world, different churches and assemblies, from old testament times to today - we are all part of the Body of Christ and all united as one Body.  

Promise: God has only one people, the promises He makes under each covenant to the corporate body apply to all of His people.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for the church. Thank you for reminding me of the scope and breadth of us all, from the people we read about to the people we read to the friends and family members I have that you have called - we are all one Body. We are all part of the Body of Christ that you have established. Thank you for this. Thank you for the excitement and joy of connecting with people and learning from them and being encouraged by them and sharing life with them. Thanks for making us bigger than one place and joining us all together. It is all because of You and You bring us together. Thank you for them and for including me. 

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.  

Christ's Body

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. - The Church We Can See - Belonging to a church is not optional, for anyone. We are meant to live in a community with other believers, to hear the Word of God preached, and to grow. The Church We Cannot See - What we see is the Visible church, the invisible church only God knows because He is omniscient and that is the Church we cannot see. 

Truths about the Church from the Apostles Creed

Church Unity - The church is bigger than our local assembly; there are core beliefs among the invisible church. 

Ephesians 4:4-6 - Church Unity

Ephesians 4:4-6 - 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. 

Message: Church Unity

Time: Paul wrote the letter to the Ephesians sometime in AD 60–61, around the same time he wrote Colossians and Philemon. Ephesians deals with topics at the core of being a Christian - faith and practice, no matter the situation.

What the Lord is Saying:

Since this is a study in 2017 about the 500th celebration of the Reformer's the focus is on understanding these doctrines. The doctrine of the church or its ecclesiology is actually argued to be a return to scripture. One way in which many beliefs come together is through a creed. Churches will often have bylaws to emphasize things that they believe to be their mission. For example, the church I attend has a bylaw or ministry focus that is on evangelism and equipping the saints. They do not believe the church is there to cure societal evils, but to focus on the person first and their sin problem. But churches differ and can have different emphasis and different ways to carry out their mission. Meanwhile a creed hopefully aligns all of these differences into one to summarize foundational Christian beliefs. 

One such creed is the Apostles creed that came about at the midpoint of the 5th century. This creed originally was in Latin and has been translated to English. 

I believe in God, the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.

I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord,
who was conceived by the Holy Spirit
and born of the virgin Mary.
He suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried;
he descended to hell.
The third day he rose again from the dead.
He ascended to heaven
and is seated at the right hand of God the Father almighty.
From there he will come to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic* church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting. Amen.

*that is, the true Christian church of all times and all places

In our study now is 4 truths about the church of Christ: its unity, its holiness, its catholicity, and its Apostolicity. 

Today is looking at church unity. Yes, there are different churches that are visible in our world - different denominations, but the true church is one Body. This oneness is mentioned in today's scripture. 

As we mentioned and studied there is a church we see and a church we cannot see - a visible church and an individual church. Even in Paul's day there were different churches but there is a core faith defined by the gospel that unites all Christians regardless of where they hold their church membership. Differences remain but the true church is one and the invisible church transcends our local assemblies.

I really like this idea of there being a church unity and yet as I converse with people I continue to wonder if others agree with this. I know my church does, and does see the basic tenets that others have that agree with them. And yet a place like 7th day Adventist take a harder stance on Sabbath while Church of Christ takes a harder stance on baptism and Catholics a harder stance on Mary -- so each of those I think tend to think no one is like them. But overall, I still see the common thread of the beliefs of the Apostles Creed, even though each has different flavors of what they emphasize. 

Summary: Church Unity means the church is bigger than our local assembly. And there are core beliefs among believers and this speaks to our unity. 

Promise: Doctrinal differences are secondary and we don't all agree on everything. We can therefore have church unity where we can. 

Prayer: Lord, I really believe this and am thankful for this truth that I see in your scripture. It is hard at times to reconcile all the differences and the personal feelings that go along with those differences. I am thankful for those people that hold to the idea that differences are okay, but there are central truths that speak to all of us. I hope that others would see this and not be so focused on conforming people to their brand. Thank you for making me the way I am and the peace I have with that. It helps me in talking to others and ministering to them. I know  you are using me Lord and I am grateful. Help me to stay true to You always and me in the process. 

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. - The Church We Can See - Belonging to a church is not optional, for anyone. We are meant to live in a community with other believers, to hear the Word of God preached, and to grow. The Church We Cannot See - What we see is the Visible church, the invisible church only God knows because He is omniscient and that is the Church we cannot see. 

I John 2:19b - The Church We Cannot See

I John 2:19b - But they went out, that it might become plain that they all are not of us. 

Message: The Church We Cannot 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:

Once again, the reason for these studies is from the context of celebrating the 500th year of the Reformation in 2017 and to look back at key doctrines from that time period. Justification by faith alone and the final authority of the Scriptures stand out, but the doctrine of the church and basically the reinvention of church and what it really means also stands out. As I looked previously at Joseph Benson's commentary of I John 2:19 I finish it out here:

but they went out — They were permitted to apostatize outwardly; that it (they) might become plain (be made manifest) — See 1 Corinthians 11:19. (This was made manifest by their going out;) that they were not all of us — Sound members of our body, really believing the same truths which we believe, and partaking of the same grace which we partake of.

One of the interesting points that I saw in the previous lesson is the church is really meant to be a place for all people for they can witness the work of the Spirit in people's lives, hopefully see the proper view of authority and hear the preaching of God's word - in hopes that they will be saved. Clearly the preaching of God's words is even recognized today by atheists as sound teaching. Many agree that it is good thinking for living out our lives today. But in this process there are people among us that are not saved or will move away from the truth of the Word. And this last section of I John 2:19b speaks of this. 

The idea of "they went out" explains to me the issue that we are seeing now and how people are being labeled now as deconstructing their faith. For example, Joshua Harris is one that comes to mind recently. A writer and pastor who is now saying it is not true. I think from these verses we can read that they were not really of us. In other words, their apostasy now shows that they were not really Christians. And yet this is expected and even part of God's plan. 

Perhaps we experience this expectation often that everyone within the church walls is saved and all following together. We think this and Benson's commentary states "that they were not all of us" meaning there are people of us practicing the same things and partaking of the same grace and yet not really of us.  Another great text Benson mentions earlier is I Corinthians 11:19 and I went back and looked at verse 18-21. The text speaks of disorders at the Lord's Supper. 

18 For, in the first place, when you come together as a church, I hear that divisions exist among you; and in part I believe it. 19 For there must also be factions among you, so that those who are approved may become evident among you. 20 Therefore when you meet together, it is not to eat the Lord’s Supper, 21 for in your eating each one takes his own supper first; and one is hungry and another is drunk.

What a compelling statement -- For there must also be factions among you. - We need differences. Differences show who the true believers are. Very interesting statement. And so God remains sovereign. A tough statement is "God saves" and yet God does not save everyone. He saves people in the church through the preaching of the Word but He does not save everyone. John 3:16 records those famous lasting words "For God so loved the world" but God does not save or call everyone to be His children. Just as he saves within the church walls, he also saves outside of the church walls. But the means in which he saves outside the walls has basically been provided by those inside of it. Tabletalk records:

...consider the businesswoman who finds a Bible in her hotel room while she is traveling, reads it, and comes to faith in Christ. Even in this instance, the visible church has played a role. Prophets and Apostles, members of the visible church, wrote the Scriptures under divine inspiration. Other members of the visible church translated the original text, paid for the printing, and placed the Bible in her hotel room. So, the visible church is involved even when people are saved outside of her walls.

There is a comparison of visible church and invisible church in the reading from Tabletalk. The idea is the visible church are the one's that we can see and those may include true believers and not. But true believers are members of the invisible church where only God can see the hearts of the people in the pews and whether they are really saved. Granted we try to set up systems to hopefully have people serving and doing the work of the church body that are saved, but there is no guarantee this is so. As always we look to God for He is the one that is omniscient and sees all and knows all. Only Him.  

Summary: In the church, we see true believers and those who are practicing but do not have true piety. Only God knows who is part of the invisible church for he only knows the hearts of the people. 

Promise: Those who refuse to join the visible church should have no assurance that they are part of the invisible church. If we love Christ, we will join the visible manifestation of His body in the visible church. 

Prayer: O Lord, what an exciting reading today. How exciting always it is to read your Word and understand that Your word speaks clearly about all that I see going on today. I had questions about those that have stated they have fallen away and deny Christ now, but your word is true in that in your sovereign will this happens and we can even call this your providence. You help me see and understand who are the true believers. You also let me know that those who have been with us are people that we can still learn from. So the music artist that now does not align with you, well his written music still ministers to me and this is fine and good. You are the author of all church whether people align with you ultimately or not. But we still need to be a part of the church body and we still need to belong to the Visible Church. Thank you for confirming these truths to me and helping me see the completeness always of the Word of God. You are to be praised and glorified always. 

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. - The Church We Can See - Belonging to a church is not optional, for anyone. We are meant to live in a community with other believers, to hear the Word of God preached, and to grow.

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.

Colossians 1:18 - The Head of The Church

Colossians 1:18 - He is also head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything.

Message: The Head of the Church

Time: Paul penned this letter to the Colossian church in AD 60-61 during his first imprisonment in Rome after the church was under attack and denigrating the deity of Christ. He penned it before visiting the church. Christ was and is the visible image of the invisible God, containing within Himself the fullness of Deity. 

What the Lord is Saying:

Ecclesiology is the doctrine of the church. It represents probably one of the biggest practical changes in the church following the Reformation because how our churches are led and taught from the pulpit impact church life and church people. Up until this point, the people of God had mostly been Romans Catholic and the people listened to teaching based upon the Church Calendar and not simply ascribed to the written word of God, but also oral teaching. 

Headship of the church was a key ideology. Romans Catholic stated that Christ was the head of the church, but also inserted the Pope as the earthly head of the church. As such, as earthly head he can put forth powers and doctrines that can at times have a different agenda that the God of the Bible. It is a problem I continue to see today in other churches and beliefs (e.g. The president of LDS - Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day-Saints, Muhammed of Islam, Ellen G. White of the 7th day Adventist, and others). The Pope as well as other revolves. I think thought even denominations elect leaders, but hopefully it is to protect truth rather than define how all of the believers within that fold are to think. The argument from the Tabletalk article is that all of these other belief systems don't really have Christ as the head and yes, some don't even pretend to do this. But, I don't think it is always this simple. 

From Scripture and life we know that a Body has only one Head. Today's passage states that Christ is also head of the body, the church. And yet pastors and elders are appointed as under-shepherds that lead and guard His body (I Peter 5:1-5). The hope is that these pastors and elders are declaring to the people what Christ has already spoken in His Word. 

Personally, I believe this is still a hard issue. Case in point: we have so many different brands within protestant beliefs -- Baptists, Lutherans, Presbyterian, Episcopal, Reform, Seventh-Day Adventist, Evangelical Free, Churches of Christ, Assemblies of God. I saw on this site they have over 140 different belief systems under Protestantism. Now there are some groups on here that I know do not believe in the Trinity, but still there are so many beliefs that purport that they are the one's that have the right way. Thus, there are many different applications of truth and everyone can in some ways think that they each are in fact declaring what the Bible is saying and that Christ is even head of the church. In other words, what I am seeing is each body often believes they are the only one's that are truly holding to the word of God and doing things correctly.  I have found this to be true as I've spoken to people. 

I've always been enamored by this in life. I think it is interesting the diversity. And yet it is also unnerving. It is hard to reconcile. God I believe has placed me in the place where I am at, but even in that in my lifetime I have been a regular attender at Baptist churches, Church of Christ in college and non-denomination, Evangelical Free, and Baptist again. Most often it is Baptist where I reside. But, I am not sure that they always have the market on truth and I tend to respect that there are other institutions that are just as good but God has simply directed people to different places, to live, serve and minister. What is important to me is the doctrine of salvation - faith alone and that there is no semblance of any work. Infallibility of scripture, the belief in the trinity and the consistent upholding and study of the Word of God. I've visited churches where the Word of God is not studied, but rather it is more topical and even small group Sunday schools are reading Christian books. I think there is a danger in this and I prefer to stay close to those that hold to the Word and overall its traditional application. I'm concerned again when we start to change theology to make it more palpable to the world around us and what they are experiencing and thinking. We need to be different and let God make us relevant. 

Summary: 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. 

Promise: Christian leaders need to be accountable to one another. We must be cautious of churches in which the pastor seems to have little accountability. 

Prayer: God, it seems clear to me that You have called us to be in church and to be in community with one another. You know me and even in this I've struggled to understand church at times and questioned things in it, but what I know for sure is we need this fellowship and I need this fellowship and community in my life. Lord, I wish we could be a people that shared truth, but then we would all be the same. I do pray that people would be drawn to truth and only You God would be their Lord. Keep helping me to discern You and lead people to You and You alone and help us be in environments that encourage this. Protect us from veering off course. Thank you God for being rich in mercy and grace.

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. 

Ephesians 5:25-33 - The Body of Christ

Ephesians 5:25-33 - Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her, so that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, that He might present to Himself the church in all her glory, having no spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that she would be holy and blameless. So husbands ought also to love their own wives as their own bodies. He who loves his own wife loves himself; for no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ also does the church, because we are members of His body. For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and shall be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh. This mystery is great; but I am speaking with reference to Christ and the church. Nevertheless, each individual among you also is to love his own wife even as himself, and the wife must see to it that she respects her husband.

Message: The Body of Christ

Time: At the end of his second missionary journey and 2 years into his third, Paul ministered at Ephesus. Many came to Christ during His time though Paul was not popular among the pagans. Paul wrote the letter to the Ephesians sometime in AD 60–61, around the same time he wrote Colossians and Philemon, as he sent all three letters by the hand of Tychicus, accompanied by Onesimus. It was during this time that Paul sat in Rome undergoing his first Roman imprisonment, making Ephesians one of the four epistles commonly known as the Prison Epistles. The others are Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.

What the Lord is Saying:

Ecclesiology is the study of the doctrine of the church. As I now consider a study of the church and what is to be emphasized and practiced among church members, I think back to what church life looked like before the Reformation. My perception is that churchgoers showed up and listened to a sermon according to the church calendar. Attendees did not have a Bible for the Bible had not yet been translated into their language. Only the priests had the Bible. I recall several years ago speaking to a couple at the mall that mentioned they did not read their Bible, that only the priest read the Bible. 

By 1525, Luther had finished translating the New Testament into German and by 1534, the entire Bible. Translations had occurred prior to this, but this was the first one from the original Greek and Hebrew. The King James Version into English came about in 1611. 

[I've spent the past couple of days trying to find a little more information about church services prior to the Reformation and I haven't found much. I did read about the start of expository preaching by Huldrych Zwingli, an ordained catholic priest and pastor in Switzerland, who died in 1531 at the age of 47 from injuries in a war between Catholics and Protestants. He was an educated man thanks to the success of his father, a farmer and chief magistrate. He attended University of Vienna. He was interested in Erasmus and his thoughts and after Erasmus published the Greek New Testament in 1516 he became more of a student of the scriptures and copied by hand the entire Erasmus New Testament. He ended up with a different pastorate and in 1519 he started doing readings and observations through the Gospel of Matthew and continued this in his services through the New Testament. This was a departure from the Catholic Mass and preaching according to the calendar prevalent in the Catholic Church (not quite sure what this means). Zwingli questioned the practice of abstaining from meat during lent. In 1524, he published his 67 Theses in which he rejected many medieval beliefs, such as forced fasting, clerical celibacy, purgatory, the Mass, and priestly mediation and also the use of images in the church; and he married Anna Reinhard, a widow. In 1525, the break from Rome continued, as Scripture was read and preached in the language of the people, the entire congregation received bread and wine for communion, not just the clergy. No more focus on Mary and the saints, and prayers for the dead stopped. All this happened before Luther.]

What is clear is the moment the New Testament and Scripture got into the hand of people and they saw it in their own language, something changed. And chief among this was seeing scripture for what it was and starting to wonder why there were so many practices that were really non-scripture or not found in scripture. And so beginning in the early 1500s, many left the Catholic structure to what we now have as also a Protestant structure. The church hasn't been diminished any, as many have suggested, but rather upheld. 

This passage from Ephesians 5 echoes this sentiment by showing a parallel between a man's love for his flesh, nourishing it and cherishing it, in order to show him the love that the man needs to have for his wife. But Paul also says this is the type of love relationship Christ has with the church. There is this idea of leave and cleave with the man and woman, and perhaps it is the same with the church, leaving the ways of the world and cleaving to Christ through the church. The focus of this passage is really about a man and his relationship to his wife, but there is a strong message about the church. Another application is we live and do things in this world by use of our bodies and so Christ works his ways through the church, His body. 

Thus, the church is the body of Christ and Christ loves the church. As imitators of Christ (I Cor 11:1 - Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ.) we are to love the church then also.  

Summary - Christ is the body of Christ and Christ loves the church like the man his own flesh or body. So we are imitate Christ in loving the church and seeing that the church is how God carries out his purposes in the world. 

Promise: We need to pay special heed to the elders, pastors, and leaders of the church. They have been placed in their positions for our good. 

Prayer: O God, I've struggled over the years with leadership in the church and often thinking I have a better way. At our last church I was bothered that the church leaders I did not feel were guided by scripture. But I find myself wondering at times even in this new church or struggling at times. Lord, help me to submit to your body, the church, in all that it does and continue to support it. Thank you for the churches you have shown me and pastors in other parts of the world that need support as well to carry out your mission. Keep me sensitive to those needs. Thank you for your love for the church and showing me this. 

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. 

TABLETALK - July 2017 Article Summaries

Discerning Entertainment - Dr. Burk Parsons (editor of Tabletalk magazine) - Born into an entertainment family, Parsons was one of the original members of the Backstreet Boys. Through his experience, he has a heightened direction in leading his family in discerning entertainment choices. Entertainment can be a wonderful thing, but we still must always guard our eyes and our hearts. Hollywood has affected us all, so we must be discerning going forward. It isn't evil, but our goal remains the same - to Glorify God and enjoy Him forever. 

When All Things are Made New - RC Sproul (founder of Ligonier Ministries, founding pastor of Saint Andrew’s Chapel in Sanford, Fla., and first president of Reformation Bible College) - The problem of suffering remains a hard question in this life. In suffering, we focus on the present and secularism says the present is all there is. But in Christ we are called to consider the eternal, not ever downplaying the pain that suffering brings, but gazing upon the future. Rev. 21:3-4 says He will wipe away every tear. As a boy, needed mom to wipe every tear away as I experienced bullies and tough situations, but one day God will wipe away every tear and they will not return. And death will be no more (21:4). One day we won't know death, sorrow, crying, and pain. Right now, all of creation groans, waiting for the moment when the curse (of pain and suffering) is removed (Rom. 8:19). One day it says (22:3) "no longer will there be anything accursed." And we will see God's face (v.4). Persevere through the pain and one day we will see God's face. "These words are trustworthy and true (v.6)." If we are in Christ by faith alone, we are bound for glory when He will make all things new. 

Entertainment Everywhere - Kevin D. Gardner (associate editor of Tabletalk magazine) - In the late 20th and early 21st centuries there have been rapid changes in technology. In the early 80s, MTV brought in the era of hyperkinetic editing where no shot lasts more than 3 seconds and this made its way into films and even sporting events. It trains our brains to expect new stimuli at regular intervals; we now feel bored quickly. We are also distracted easily. TV in the 1950s became the center of the home. Families in the same house yet each on their own screen or doing something different. There are simply too many options. 24 hours news came about in 1980 proclaiming the mundane as breaking news. Reality TV resulted in taking part in the latest great event - daily. In the past, life moved slowly with most significant events standing out. Now everything is significant, yet nothing really is. Don't lose sight of what really matters. All should be brought under God's authority and used for His glory (I Cor. 10:31). 

The Gift of Entertainment - Nick Batzig (organizing pastor of New Covenant Presbyterian church in Richmond Hill, Georgia) - God has provided entertainment. We often use entertainment to escape life. What can we draw from scripture about entertainment? Entertainment defined -- an activity that affords pleasure, diversion, or amusement, especially a performance of some kind. It comes from a Latin word meaning "holding together" and includes rest. We need to rest from our labor. "Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God (I Corinthians 10:31). So entertaining activities should glorify God. Music, dance, art, sports, and literature play a role in our quest for joy and rest. David's dying words he referred to himself as "the sweet psalmist of Israel" (2 Sam 23:1). King Saul summoned David to play soothing melodies for the king (I Sam 16:16) and this refreshed Saul (v. 23). Solomon had a gift of music (I Kings 4:32). David returned to Israel with the ark and danced (2 Sam 6:14) and dance is alluded to in the wisdom literature (Eccl 3:4). Athletics is mentioned in the New Testament -- running (Heb 12:1), boxing (I Cor 9:26), wrestling (Eph 6:12); they admired competitiveness (1 Cor 9:24), training (I Cor 9:25, I Tim 4:7-8), single-mindedness (I Cor 9:26), self-denial (9:27), attire (Heb 12:1), perseverance (Heb 12:2), and endurance (I Tim 4:8). Artisans were employed in the construction of the tabernacle (Ex 25:1-5, 35) and temple (I Kings 6:4); the potter and the clay (Jer 18:1-19:11; Rom 9:21) to highlight God's sovereignty. Literature through poetry (Acts 17:28), philosophy (I Cor 15:33), and fictional/apocalyptic narrative (Jude 1:9,14). Film and television seems to be a amalgamation of artwork and literature. As in everything we must be careful that entertainment doesn't turn into us engaging in immorality or idolatry; entertainment itself is not sinful. We must still glorify God in our entertainment choices. 

The Danger of Entertainment - Keith A. Mathison (professor of systematic theology at Reformation Bible College) - In 1991, Nirvana's Kurt Cobain screamed the lyrics, "Here we are now, Entertain Us!" It is clear, we live in a culture that demands constant entertainment, constant diversion. As followers of Christ, living in the world, not of it, what is our response? There isn't mention of most of our entertainment choices in the Bible, so we must be guided by principles in the text. Once again, I Corinthians 10:31 says, "Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." As we choose entertainment, we need to think whether our choices, at any moment, can be enjoyed to the glory of God. (I must admit, that is a hard question and in the process will remove a lot entertainment choices from my diet.) Second, in I Corinthians 8:7-13 is the example of eating food in such a way that it causes a brother to stumble and thus applying this to choosing an entertainment choice that causes a brother to stumble. While those principles are inferred, there are also direct instructions. 

• Idolatry - This occurs when an entertainment choice (sports, movies, TV shows, magazines, internet -- becomes a chief end in itself and becomes an idol. (For me, the warning signs is when I am more engaged in these activities than ministry). 
• Worldliness - Friendship with the world is admonished (James 4:4). A lot of entertainment is produced by non-Christians or doesn't encourage faith, but does it encourage righteous living. I think I must be careful for this. I'm encourage in the Word to think on things that are worthy of His praise (Phil. 4:8). 
• Shifting our worship time to another form of entertainment is a danger some churches have fallen into, in order to be relevant and fun in the same way as the world. We must evaluate what our primary concern is in these moments. "God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth. (John 4:24)”
• Danger of Distraction - With entertainment now at our fingertips, we can get distracted very easily by this in our lives. We must be careful that we don't turn these gifts into the greatest gift in our lives and pull us away from things that are more Godly and important. 

Glorifying God and Engaging Entertainment - Michael Wittmer (professor of systematic theology Grand Rapids Theological Seminary) - It is sometimes implied in Christian circles that Christian virtue is unaffected by our entertainment choices, that all will must do is watch with discernment or to gain hopefully a Christian virtue in the movie. Thus, we seek biblical wisdom by asking 2 questions -- "When to Engage" and "How to Engage." 

When to Engage 

Regularly - Scripture reminds us that God wants us to enjoy life (I Timothy 6:17 - Focus on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy.) Scripture mentions poetry, fragrances, harp music, wine, dancing, Jesus mentions gives running and boxing metaphors. We seek wholesome pleasures but this doesn't mean all forms (music, movies, novels) must have explicit Christian messages (Colossians 1:16 - All things were created through him and for him). 

Selectively - (I Cor. 6:12 - All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful.) Life is lived moment by moment. Am I spending my time mostly staring at screens? Some of our free can be spent watching and in entertainment, but be careful to not spend most of our time passive consumer's of other people's work. (Matt. 25:30 - cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness.) Consider the time of day when I am most fresh (mornings for me) and focus creativity and study at those times. 

How to Engage

Entertainment works when we immerse ourselves in it. There are times to think critically about what we are watching or viewing and the content, but if we do this each time we lose the pleasure of the entertainment. Enjoy a basketball game rather than dissecting every play. Enjoy a movie rather than evaluating camera angles. But we still must be selective about what we watch. (Phil. 4.8 focuses on what is true, good and beautiful.)

Is it True? - Is the message and words pagan? Often, we are told to love oneself. I may be focused on the melody, but the message works itself into my heart. I need to pay attention to the lyrics before joining in. And make sure I am combatting them with God's truth. 

Is it Good? - The Bible does depict sin, but never to tempt and only to show its destruction. God wants us to be holy in our creation and consumption of entertainment (I Peter 1:15-16 - be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”) (Mark 12:31 - You shall love your neighbor as yourself.) (I Thess. 4:3-6 - abstain from sexual immorality...that no one transgress and wrong his brother.) Don't reduce people to objects of our own desire. Hate sin. 

Is it Beautiful? - We may view dark videos for their educational value but we must be careful to not be focused on being entertained. (Ps 27:4 - I am to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord;  Is 61:3 - That he may be glorified.) Instead I need to cultivate an increasing appetite for what is beautiful. 

Can I thank God for this

There is Christian freedom in entertainment. Christians will have different limits and standards. Can you offer a sincere prayer of thanksgiving to God before, during, and after engaging this song, show, or sporting event?

Entertainment and Worship - Joe Thorn (Founding and Lead Pastor of Redeemer Fellowship in St. Charles, Illinois) - Always a danger in every church and in every generation to lose our focus on what is most important (Heb. 2:1 - For this reason we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away from it.) From secular songs played by worship bands to comedy-full preaching, elaborate performances, there is a danger in brining entertainment into gathered worship and working it against the aim of worship. There should be diversity or different flavors from church to church in their worship services. The issue is substance. Entertainment focus on amusement, worship is God-centered and God-directed. As the church draws near to God, the Lord draws near to us, and we receive grace. Grace changes our affections, drawing us to Christ, conforming us to His image. The church does not need performance to aid us in worship, but rather we need God's word read and preached, prayed and sung. Let the scripture draw or address the needs of sinful men and women, not entertainment through emotion and amusement. 

Christ in Sight - Jason Helopoulos (Associate pastor at University Reformed Church in East Lansing, Michigan) - Recalls a hiking trip to New Mexico in which he prepared but still got tired from the elevation change and got his eyes off the creation he came to enjoy and onto his boots, just walking. Often, the daily chores, routines and stresses of like take over and we start to lose our focus on the beauty of the Lord (Psalm 27:4). Each day we need discipline, mind engagement and holy pursuit to pursue Christ and seek to gaze upon His beauty. Keep Christ in view throughout my day - in my daily work, as I parent and love my spouse, pleading for a greater vision of His beauty in the morning and thanking Him every evening for the delights I've enjoyed. 

Because He Loves Us - Kevin D. Gardner (associated editor of TableTalk; resident adjunct professor at Reformation Bible College) - Account of Jarius daughter that Jesus rose from the dead. Upon this happening she is told to eat (possibly to prove that life has returned). This girl had been raised privately, not publicly. Jesus met a need but Jesus also still had a mission. He loves us, everything about us. He loves people. Jairus, a leader of the synagogue, a place Jesus often went, and Jairus at the time he came to Jesus perhaps not even sure Jesus is who He says He is, but inside of Jairus I think He knows Jesus might be able to help. And He does - because He loves people. Even after raising the girl from the dead was the thought to get her something to eat. The author brings up Isaiah 43 and it is a passage reminding us that we are precious and we do not need need to fear for He is with us. He is our God. The Isaiah passage describes the redemption or God delivering the Israelites. God delivers us - always and forever. He is what we need.  

Sight in the Shadow - Melissa B. Kruger (women's ministry coordinator at Uptown Church (PCA) in Charlotte, NC) -  The author opens up with a person dying and in that moment, gathered around, in sorrow yet rejoicing the person is with Jesus. Reminded of Ecclesiastes 7:3 and sorrow is better than laughter. We are left here in the Shadow to remember our Purpose, our Hope, and our Home. For our Purpose, we let the busyness of life choke out what matters most - seeking the lost, sharing the gospel and making disciples. Remember our purpose: know Him and make Him known. Hope - I Peter 1:13 reminds me to set my hope fully on the grace that will be brought to me at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Death reminds me of the one day Jesus returns. Home - I am not yet home. He has gone to prepare a place for me and He will take me there (John 14:1-3). (Note: Each article on this page is linked to Ligonier.com but this one is not on their site.) 

Love and Church Discipline - Jonathan Leeman (editorial director of 9Marks; elder at Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington, DC.) - Story of Michael, converted through the church's evangelism team, becoming a member, having been homeless and addicted to drugs. But then he began to steal from church member's to continue his drug addiction. The church barred him from the Lord's table and membership, thus no longer part of the "one body" (Matt. 18:15-17; 1 Cor 5: 10:17), though he could still attend public gatherings. Discipline is a component of discipleship as it is teaching and correcting. Our culture today struggles with discipline because it's view on love focuses on people feeling special. Romanticized love focuses on discovering and expressing yourself. But love in the Bible is holy. It makes demands, not delighting in evil but rejoicing in truth (I Cor 13:6); disciplines shows us God's love (Hebrews 12:6). It's goal is to bring the person in sin to repentance (I Cor. 5:5). It keeps the church's witness bright and attractive (Matt 5:13-16). The goal of discipline is restoration which happened with Michael when he eventually stood before the church and confessed his sin, exhorting how good God is. 

Press On - Robert Rothwell (Associate editor of Tabletalk Magazine) - He mentions spending time daily doing Children's Catechism with his kids. Some days go well, but on other days the kids are restless and at times all they can do is pray and go to bed. But they press on and he mentions we are often like this in our church services as well. We are restless, our mind is distracted, thinking of lunch or something else going on in our lives, but we press on. Over time God is working in our lives and growing us and we don't want to be legalistic thinking that we must always be rigid and can never fluctuate. God is greater than this and can work through our situations. 

Dealing with Disappointment - Dr. Deepak Reju (pastor of biblical counseling and family ministry at Capital Hill Baptist Church in Washington, DC.) - What do we do when life is not what we expect it to be. It happens all the time. I think of my day - an employee makes a remark about their work habits; another employee isn't doing what I am expecting them to do; my entire day is spent on things I don't really enjoy; my wife only talks about the dog now; I call my childhood friend to do something and he is too busy; work is so busy. Things don't go as expected. What am I worshipping, really? (Matt. 6:19-21 -- Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth -- but lay up treasures in heaven -- where your treasure is, there is your heart. Lord, I am selfish; change my expectations so I am more accepting of my life and each moment of it and I am more focused on things that matter to You. I should be different because of You in my life.) Overall, my natural tendency is to blame others. (Matt. 7:3-5 - Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?) The Problem or "how did i get here?" -- Sin. Sin corrupts everything in our world. Everything not of God is working against God and feeding these unhealthy desires and expectations. (Romans 12:3 - do not to think more highly than ought to think, but think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. I need help God with this. I do think too highly of myself.) The Spirit is working in me, but the flesh is also doing everything it can to undermine my life. (Gal. 5:16-25 - Walk by the Spirit - the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality...enmity...envy. Live by the Spirit. Back to the Spirit for me and living by the Spirit -- love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.) Help. Jesus, I can't deal with this on my own. I need You. Run to the cross. (2 Corinthians 5:15-21 - If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature....I am an ambassador for Christ.) One day sin and pain will be no more. (Psalm 73:24-26 - God guides me with his counsel....My flesh and heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.) In heaven, there will be no more disappointment. 

How to Pray for Your Pastor - Welton L. Duncan (Ruling elder of Second Presbyterian Church of Greenville, SC) - We are living in an anti-Christian culture and our pastors/elders rule the church (Titus 1:5, 9 - appoint elders in every town and guard the treasures of Christ - He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.) Prayers to Offer Up: 1. That He would delight in preaching - Diligently seeking the Lord in his preparation - 2 Timothy 4:1-2 - I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. 2. That He would enjoy the Lord's Day - Robert Murray M'Cheyne says, "A well-spend sabbath we fell to be a day of heaven upon earth...We love to rise early on that morning, and to sit up late, that we may have a long day with God." 3. That he would lead his family well - Deuteronomy 6:7 - You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. 4. That he would have a heart for the lost - have a Christlike love for the lost and a joy in telling others about the Shepherd King; a zeal for the lost. 5. That the Lord would protect him - God, provide every physical and emotional need for the call to serve; protect these men from the evil one and temptations; guard themselves and grant personal holiness; apply the means of grace to their own hearts, by God's help. 6. That he would preach the gospel - Preach Christ as set forth in the gospel; Preach the glorious Gospel of Good news, in every way, and everywhere, in public, and in private and in the pulpit. 

The Antidote to Anemic Worship - R. Albert Mohler Jr (President of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) - Though worship wars have resulted among churches, worship is being talked about more and emphasized. Liturgical churches believe the sacraments - Lord's Supper and Baptism powerfully present the gospel; evangelical churches believe the evangelical message is at the heart of everything in the service, and yet the focus is more on music, drama and video presentations. Our media centered culture starts to mirror itself in what we focus on in churches, replicating studio quality music in the church service. Many hours are spent preparing. Traditional churches have choirs and orchestras. Yet, even Martin Luther recognized the importance of worship and yet believed that the heart of biblical worship is the preaching of the Word. Thus, it is expository preaching that is central to the Bible's mission of authentic worship. An example is found in Nehemiah 8. In verse 8 it says, They read from the book, from the Law of God, clearly, and they gave the sense, so that the people understood the reading. The concern though in our age of entertainment is Bible preaching is more a brief message of encouragement or exhortation. So what is giving in to anemia (feeling tired and weak) or that which is lacking is expository preaching in our services. 

The Church in Europe - Steffen Mueller (Pastor of Gospel Church München in Munich, Germany) - Over the past 2 centuries the church has been on a decline in Europe. From 1951 to 2017, the number of members in the two largest churches (Protestant state church and Roman Catholic Church) in Germany has decreased from 96 percent to 56 percent. For Protestants and Catholics, less than 4 percent and 10 percent, respectively attend church on any given Sunday. Meanwhile, Muslim population increasing (now 6 percent of population); 1/3rd orthodox. Yet, there are still people faithfully preaching the word of God. Many are following, though most are in smaller congregations. The community of believers is very loving. Due to proximity, many people have taken care of refugees and seen these individuals come to faith in Christ. But there are also weaknesses - liberal theology in which churches are not preaching Christ crucified. The focus in on man and making life better now. And many don't therefore know their doctrines. The number of evangelical churches has multiplied 10 times since 1945 in France. 

These posts were originally published in Tabletalk magazine. To consider more about the role of entertainment in the life of a Christian, read the July 2017 issue of Tabletalk magazine on the theme of entertainment.

Excerpts from

TABLETALK | JULY 2017 | VOL. 41 | NO.7

Ligonier Ministries

This material may be protected by copyright.

Deuteronomy 5:21 - Inner Cleanness

Deuteronomy 5:21 - You shall not covet your neighbor's wife. And you shall not desire your neighbor's house, his field, or his male servant, or his female servant, his ox, or his donkey, or anything that is your neighbor's. 

Message: Inner Cleanness

Time: This book chronicles farewell messages by Moses, the 120 year old leader of the Israelite, primarily intended for the lay person. It covers about one month, at the end of the forty-year period in the wilderness - 1405 BC. It is a renewal of the old covenant given at Mount Sinai to the plains of Moab.

What the Lord is Saying:

In these last several studies, I have been looking at offenses or crimes taken against other people. You shall not murder, You shall not commit adultery, and You shall not steal -- all of these are offenses toward the greater population, toward everyone in society. Then in the last lesson, it seems, at least by the wording, the commandments are more focused on our neighbor - not bearing false witness against your neighbor and then today, to not covet. I love what Jesus does as recorded in Matthew 15:10-20 as he mentions that it is from the heart, that defile man and out of the heart come evil thoughts. It is actually tough because we are so focused on what people can see. I often find that I am hiding sin often, doing it in secret, thinking it is only me that it is affecting. When the kids were younger, we read the book Shepherding a Child's Heart and this book focused on these type of thoughts, that out of the heart springs forth the child's heart and so we want to learn how to shape the heart. Clearly Jesus is wanting us to be aware that how we are on the inside and think impacts us and even those thoughts can be a breaking of the Law. 

Luke 6:45 - The good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth what is good; and the evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth what is evil; for his mouth speaks from that which fills his heart.

Matthew 12:34 - You brood of vipers, how can you, being evil, speak what is good? For the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart.

Proverbs 4:23 - Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life.

There are many more references, but the idea is the reason we are who we are -- is because of our heart. In my reading and studying of scripture, I am training my thinking, my heart. 

In this commandment of covetousness, it needs to be clear that the issue is not to desire something or want something, but when that desire hurts another person then something is off. I see this in me often. There is something about me that actually finds pleasure when someone my age does poorly in life. I know it happens. I feel in competition with many of my peers and often I am not unhappy when they struggle. That is sin. That is this problem of coveting and thinking that I am the one that must come out ahead. Romans 12:15 says - Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. This is how I am commanded to live to rejoice with those who rejoice. Ultimately in this situation, what I desire is to come out ahead. This is where I really struggle with this commandment.

Covetousness is also wanting something and then wanting to belittle or move others out of the way so that I can get it. At the beginning of the pandemic, I watched people in the supermarket rush to get paper towels, out of the concern they would be scarce. The concern was not with other people. The concern was only self and making sure myself was under good care. I think this is covetousness. I have seen friends want their neighbor's wife for their own, even those that ended up getting the wife of a friend. Am I always wanting hard work to pay off for everyone. Not all the time. Often, I want the raise and promotion because I feel like I work harder than others. And for me to get the promotion means others cannot. Hopefully I am not pushing people out of the way to get what I want. 

I admit it is very hard to not compare and want and be happy with other's successes while at times ours are not present. As with all of these commandments, I am to recognize it and then work to put it to death. I also need to remember the way I am being trained, often to want things through marketing that I really do not need or should not have. As I mentioned, visiting Las Vegas, Nevada, recently, I was flooded with those temptations of sin luring me in to desire something I do not need. 

My goal instead is recorded in Psalm 119:11

Your word I have treasured in my heart,
That I may not sin against You.

Summary: To covet is to desire something that is not rightfully ours, to unlawfully desire something that another person has. I also see it as wanting good things to only happen to me. 

Promise: Sin is a matter of the heart. Repent for those thoughts and desires that you have that do not conform to God's law. 

Prayer: Lord, create in me a heart that more consistently and deeply loves the things that You love. Change my thinking Lord so that my mind is approaching life differently, rejoicing when others rejoice and weeping when they weep. Take me far away from this feeling in me often that I must be better than others. Thank you for showing me continually the person I am and the person You want me to be. 

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 celebrating the 500th year of the Reformation. The month of July is about 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 and the various aspects of the doctrine of Scripture that sola Scriptura seeks to preserve; January, the doctrine of God. 

Bringing me to Christ

The Restraint of the Law - the law is given for lawless, unholy, disobedient people, to restrain us from acting on our sinful thoughts. Restraint and Guilt - the law is meant to restrain Christians and non-Christians alike; so that others may see Christ. The Law's Revelation of Sin - The Law reveals sin, at times making it more desirable, and show the sin which people commit and the complete standard it expects. The Law and Our Powerlessness - We are powerless over the Law and Sin revealed. It is in Christ that we receive forgiveness and the power to resist sin. The Law our Guardian - The law is not a tool of justifying me, but rather it is an instrument to bring me to Christ and show me my need for Him. 

Guiding our Lives

The Guidance of the Law - The Law is a guide in our lives for what pleases God and what it looks like to walk in holiness. The Antinomian Error - We were slaves to sin, but now we are slaves to obedience and righteousness. Judaizing Legalism - The error of Judaizing Legalism is the idea that obedience brings about God's acceptance of us for salvation. The Deadliest Form of Legalism - This legalism is that one would get too focused on external practices instead of focusing on the heart.

The Law is our Guide

The Centrality of Love - Love and the law go hand in hand. We do not belong to God unless we love our neighbor, and we cannot love our neighbor without knowing and doing God‘s law and loving him. Finding Guidance in the Law - God's Word, all if it, is a guide to my life and I am to meditate on it continually. 

Caring and Protecting Us

The One and Only God - I seek to trust and love God above all else today. Images and Idols - Pictures, statues, symbols, art, people are not bad; but be careful about placing too much emphasis on these things I see. Using God's Name Frivolously - Blasphemy or using God's name frivolously are examples of taking God's name in vain. Keeping the Lord's Day - It is vital that we are setting apart a day to gather for worship and fellowship, resting from our ordinary vocations. Honoring Father and Mother - Parents are to rear their children in faith, teaching them to respect authority and children are to follow. Murder, Self-Defense and Hatred - Murder is not unforgivable and yet like any other sin, even hatred, we need to avoid it. It has consequences in this life. Adultery - Breaking the covenant of marriage by replacing what God has commanded with our own choices. The Many Forms of Theft - Any time we take anything from another, a store, another person, our employer, or another owner of those goods or services, we are committing the crime of thievery. False Witness - say something about another person that is not true or accuse someone who has committed no crime. 

Deuteronomy 5:20 - False Witness

Deuteronomy 5:20 - You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. 

Message: False Witness

Time: This book chronicles farewell messages by Moses, the 120 year old leader of the Israelite, primarily intended for the lay person. It covers about one month, at the end of the forty-year period in the wilderness - 1405 BC. It is a renewal of the old covenant given at Mount Sinai to the plains of Moab.

What the Lord is Saying:

In Matthew 22 is the record of the Pharisees asking Jesus what is the greatest commandment. Jesus starts by saying - "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind." But then he says there is a second commandment that is like the first one and that is "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." I've always found it interesting that he puts on part with loving God, loving others. And so while the 10 commandments are numbered, it also seems like there is an equality given for all of the commandments, that not any one is greater than the other and that they all work together. 

Today I look at this commandment about "not bearing false witness against your neighbor." There are different relationships mentioned in the commandments - our relationship with God, the church, children, parents, husband and wife, others in society, and more distinctly our neighbor. Granted, everyone can thought to be our neighbor but it seems like there is some distinction between our neighbor in these last 2 commandments. 

In a simple way, telling a lie can be bearing false witness against your neighbor though I do not think these are all lies. But it is fair to say that in this commandment is the expectation that our speech needs to be truthful about others. In my life, I've noticed this being rather difficult in the workplace. At times as a manager my job is to listen to employees and one area is listening to how an employee believes or thinks or hears other employees are talking about him or her. Obviously, if the employee has been offended directly then I must take this seriously, but when an employee hears through another employee something about oneself, it reminds me that these are rumors and potentially gossip. When I am feeling wronged by a person, often the first thing that I will do is want to tell someone else. I do this because I think I want others to sympathize with me or agree with me. This is clearly a sin though. At its core this is gossip. And in this communication is often sometimes a tendency to slander the person as well - so when I share I go beyond the comment and even have a tendency to make the situation sound worse that it was. I need to be more careful with my speech for my words can have lasting results. 

From a lying standpoint, when I say something about another person that is not true, I am lying. Often I will tell people what they want to hear. It would be better for me probably to not speak. But I also see this as a problem in the workplace and at home in family relationships. 

The other side of this commandment deals with legal testimony as to bear false witness or accusing someone who has committed no crime. In other words, falsely accusing an innocent person. Deuteronomy 19:16-19 says:

6 If a malicious witness arises to accuse a person of wrongdoing, 17 then both parties to the dispute shall appear before the LORD, before the priests and the judges who are in office in those days. 18 The judges shall inquire diligently, and if the witness is a false witness and has accused his brother falsely, 19 then you shall do to him as he had meant to do to his brother.

I think of the workplace as well and a desire sometimes to assume people are in the wrong. Again, there is a desire in man to be better than another person. This is a source of competition and can be a good thing, but given the situation, I think we must also recognize the other side of the coin or stand in the other person's shoes. Again, I think it is important to remember the command that we are given overall and that is to you shall love your neighbor as yourself. Even in competition we can have love. And we can consider the other person. 

Summary: To bear false witness against your neighbor is to think or say something about your neighbor that is not true. 

Promise: Gossip and slander are the calling cards of this sin. Rather than speaking to people face to face and understanding their situation, we like to place ourselves above the person through gossip and slander and lessen the worth of a person. We really need to repent and ask God to help put this sin to death. 

Prayer: O God, I need help with this sin that I often struggle with in my life. I do have this temptation to make myself look better than another person, to set myself on a pedestal, especially when I feel wronged. I've struggled with this during my life. Help me to be a person of truth and to know when not to speak. These are little momentary choices I can make each day, but give me the courage and the discipline to make those decisions so that I honor you with my words and in my heart with my thoughts. Change me. Turn my wrongs into right. 

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 celebrating the 500th year of the Reformation. The month of July is about 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 and the various aspects of the doctrine of Scripture that sola Scriptura seeks to preserve; January, the doctrine of God. 

Bringing me to Christ

The Restraint of the Law - the law is given for lawless, unholy, disobedient people, to restrain us from acting on our sinful thoughts. Restraint and Guilt - the law is meant to restrain Christians and non-Christians alike; so that others may see Christ. The Law's Revelation of Sin - The Law reveals sin, at times making it more desirable, and show the sin which people commit and the complete standard it expects. The Law and Our Powerlessness - We are powerless over the Law and Sin revealed. It is in Christ that we receive forgiveness and the power to resist sin. The Law our Guardian - The law is not a tool of justifying me, but rather it is an instrument to bring me to Christ and show me my need for Him. 

Guiding our Lives

The Guidance of the Law - The Law is a guide in our lives for what pleases God and what it looks like to walk in holiness. The Antinomian Error - We were slaves to sin, but now we are slaves to obedience and righteousness. Judaizing Legalism - The error of Judaizing Legalism is the idea that obedience brings about God's acceptance of us for salvation. The Deadliest Form of Legalism - This legalism is that one would get too focused on external practices instead of focusing on the heart.

The Law is our Guide

The Centrality of Love - Love and the law go hand in hand. We do not belong to God unless we love our neighbor, and we cannot love our neighbor without knowing and doing God‘s law and loving him. Finding Guidance in the Law - God's Word, all if it, is a guide to my life and I am to meditate on it continually. 

Caring and Protecting Us

The One and Only God - I seek to trust and love God above all else today. Images and Idols - Pictures, statues, symbols, art, people are not bad; but be careful about placing too much emphasis on these things I see. Using God's Name Frivolously - Blasphemy or using God's name frivolously are examples of taking God's name in vain. Keeping the Lord's Day - It is vital that we are setting apart a day to gather for worship and fellowship, resting from our ordinary vocations. Honoring Father and Mother - Parents are to rear their children in faith, teaching them to respect authority and children are to follow. Murder, Self-Defense and Hatred - Murder is not unforgivable and yet like any other sin, even hatred, we need to avoid it. It has consequences in this life. Adultery - Breaking the covenant of marriage by replacing what God has commanded with our own choices. The Many Forms of Theft - Any time we take anything from another, a store, another person, our employer, or another owner of those goods or services, we are committing the crime of thievery.