inspireblog

Life's Baggage

2010-09-09T12:40:00.001-07:00

This last Summer, while traveling to Germany, Carol and I had a lot of baggage to keep track of. Getting through customs (both coming and going) was real brutal. Get the luggage, drag it down to the customs/passport gates and drag it out to waiting transportation. You can't travel without baggage, and I've come to see the ordeal at the airport as just part of the price to see loved ones. So, I will keep doing it.

There is another connotation to baggage. In life we use that term for people who have had difficult events in their past, and are unable to overcome it. There is no profit in minimizing horrible treatment in the past, especially by just saying "get over it". Those past treatments do have an effect on the present and if this isn't dealt with in an honest way, then people get caught in bondage to the past.

I've thought about this a lot. I've talked with people that are dealing with traumatic events in their past. I've counseled people to let those things be "teachers" and "seeds" for growth. I've counseled that the past need not be the dominate factor in the present (or the future for that matter). If the individual is a believer, the Jesus is Lord of the past, present and future. Those traumatic events are not the lord, nor are they the ways one should be identified. Our identity is in Jesus as a child of God.

I've heard people tell me that they were abused, a drunk, a drug addict, a prostitute, neglected, or experienced some other bad situation of life. If those things are in the past, and you are in Christ, you are a new creation. There is no forgetting what one was cleansed from, but the fact is, those in Christ have been cleansed. Notice what the Apostle Paul says: "Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God" (1 Corinthians 6:9-11).

Again Paul reminds us; "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new" (2 Corinthians 5:17). What could it mean that the old things have passed away? Does it mean we have somehow, magically, forgotten them? No that can't be. There is however the possibility that we demoted those things in the past so that they don't dominate us any longer.

I thought about these things and wondered if I asked a reverse question would that help point these things out? How does one go about hanging on to the baggage of the past? What do we need to do to make sure that these past experiences continue to direct our lives in the present? What is it that we must conclude that the past is what gives us an identity?

Here are a few answers I have come up with (with the help of others). We must constantly re-live those moments. We must cover ourselves in self-pity, and be unwilling to grow beyond the experience. We must make this the most significant thing that has ever happened and think that nothing will ever change it. Perhaps you can share what you think would be a good way to hold on to baggage.

I received an email this past week from Nisan McLeod. She gave me permission to share this with you.

"I am reminded to live every day to the fullest. This weekend Cynthia, Keith and I visited Yosemite as we do each year. I went by the spot where my old dorm room had stood prior to the flood in 1997, picked up a wooden shard and noticed that there were river rocks at what remained of the steps to the building. The thought came to my mind of how powerful the water was to move these things and that we should more like the water that flows around the obstacles of life instead of trying to stop the tide. I found myself thinking that I wished I had been more aware of the good times I was having there when both of my parents were alive. The truth was that I was there once again with loved ones having the time of my life and decided to embrace the moment with joy. Times change, people leave us, and yet Christ remains the unmovable constant in our lives. I hope when the time comes I will be caught praising his name! I hope today finds you enjoying life"

It actually is looking at things from a different perspective. We should take up the perspective of Yahweh's word, an bring Him glory with all we do.

Chuck Jones

openbiblepomona@gmail.com

Fidelity

2009-08-29T10:24:00.000-07:00

What's Happening With Fidelity?

Am I the only one, or does it appear to you that virtues are slowly being stripped from society? By virtues I mean those qualities that reflect the presence of God in our lives. I realize that this can't be forced on the world, or godless people, but wasn't character something to be protected at one time? The virtue, or strength of character, that comes to mind is fidelity.

Recently in the news we've had stories of elected officials that have shown themselves unfaithful. News reports have come to us of adultery committed by top ranking state officials. That sad part is that this has become "business as usual". Nothing more is thought of it than a minor infraction. However it discloses a deeper trouble.

The commitment made in any marriage is the second most important promise made. The first being our commitment to Yahweh. I think that if the marriage promise can't or won't be honored, what lessor promises of faithfulness will also be tossed to the wayside? If our elected officials can't be trusted in these larger areas, will they also be untrustworthy in others?

What is really sad is that there isn't much of a difference between the Church and the world. This goes to the question of separation and holiness. Those outside of Christ won't understand the need for godly living until they are brought face to face with Jesus. Yet those in the Church should show a higher standard, because of the higher calling we've received, to walk in a manner that is worthy of what Yahweh has granted us.

In respect to fidelity, here is what scripture tells us;

"It's better not to vow than to vow and not pay" (Ecclesiastes 5:5). Part of the response to the question in Psalm 5 about who would live in Yahweh's tabernacle or holy hill, David says, "He who swears to his own hurt and does not change (his mind). How acceptable has it become to change our minds when a better option presents itself? It's not that way for God's people. When we make promises we have eliminated all other options. When we've promised our lives to another in marriage, all other options for a life mate have been removed. If we promise time for our children, then all other options for that time are gone.

Here is my paraphrase of 1 John 4:20: "If someone says, I'm faithful to God and isn't faithful to his brother, he is a liar. Because he who isn't faithful to his brother, who he has seen, cannot be faithful to God, who he hasn't seen."

Our actions are the light that shines in the darkness. In part it is our determination to fidelity that will set us apart. Here is where the world will see Christ in you. The world, with its decaying virtues, needs to have a positive role model. That would be us.

The world's wisdom is foolishness as far as Yahweh is concerned, so I think it is wise to be faithful especially when the world thinks you're foolish by doing so. To love more, forgive more, and be more generous than the world thinks is wise, is a good path to follow. The world isn't our teacher, Jesus is.

As we lament the world's conditions, watch our own. Keep a sharp and distinct line of separation that shows we, like our Savior, are not of this world.

Blessing be on you
Chuck Jones

Are you listening to www.Cogcast.org ?

Worship

2009-08-29T10:22:00.001-07:00

I've been giving time recently to the topic of worship. I've spent time in prayer, conversations, and reading on this subject. What comes to mind is, "the more I learn the more I don't know!" I want to share some of my thoughts, questions and conclusions with you for your consideration.

My thoughts began along the lines of wondering if people who attended our church service experienced Yahweh? This opens the discussion about why people assemble on Sunday morning. I wondered if the songs touched their hearts? Were they engaging in private prayer? Were their souls stirred by the scripture lesson? Did they reach out to bless someone on Yahweh's behalf? If all these questions were answered in the affirmative that would be great.

Yet I'm not so naive to think that while people are setting in a service of worship other thoughts aren't running through their minds like; next weeks activities, who's late, will the service run overtime, where to have lunch, and so on. You can probably add some from your own experience.

Another thought I had was; Should worship be thrilling and exciting? I was thinking of something akin to a rock concert, or a night club act. Perhaps it should be quiet, subdued, or reserved. I've seen people get excited over ball games and chess matches. Is it the function of worship to get the congregation excited about Yahweh? Or is it Yahweh that excites the congregation to worship? I'm leaning toward the idea that if it's necessary to make worship exciting, perhaps Yahweh isn't there. I've heard this comment, "We have to have toe-tapping, hand-clapping music or the people won't come." So I think that it is possible to have a service about Yahweh, tailored to draw people in, that Yahweh doesn't attend. In my mind, it falls into any number of secular concert and entertainment venues that make someone a lot of money. That's not what I'm after.

I'm not making an argument against any type of music, style, songs, or instruments. What I want is a workable, usable understanding of what worship is and what it accomplishes. Gaining this understanding may make it necessary to change what I've been doing. That speaks to traditions.

What if Yahweh broke through to us and our traditional way of worship was changed? Would that be acceptable to us, if it was acceptable to Yahweh? Would His influence be enough to cause us to forsake some traditions? I don't have any in mind at this point, I'm still investigating the issue. However the question is; Is what I'm comfortable with more important than what is right?

I thought that if I could discern how the early church "did church" it might give me some insight. I've read that in or about AD 150 a typical service included reading from the Apostles and Prophets, an exhortation on the texts, prayers, communion, and a collection was taken for the needy. We could adopt their methods but it won't insure anything beyond conformity.

I believe it's beyond methods or styles, hymns or choruses, equipment or instruments. Today, my workable definition of worship is "verbalizing what is great about Yahweh". This includes what He has done in the past, what He's doing in the present, and what He has promised to do in the future. Whether this is verbalized in song, poems, conversations, or weeping, I'm coming to the conclusion that this is what constitutes worship!

When we focus on Yahweh's might, faithfulness, mercy, and promises and express our joy, we are worshiping. It can be done anywhere. A pastor asked a man why he didn't come to church. The man replied that he went to the woods and worshiped God there by himself. "After all" the man said, "isn't God there too?"

The pastor didn't want to loose this debate, so he insisted that the man give him some scripture that taught this way of worshiping. The man replied, "It says in Revelation 22:9, 'Worship God alone'. So that's what I do, I go out somewhere I can be alone".

Whether we worship in a group, or alone, it is a good practice to engage in. Spend some time thinking of those three things, what Yahweh has done, what He is doing, and what He will do. You'll find yourself worshiping before you know it.

Blessing be on you
Chuck Jones

Are you listening to www.Cogcast.org ?

Be Sharp

2009-03-27T21:00:00.001-07:00

"As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend" (Proverbs 27:17).

Fellowship with friends is a real blessing from Yahweh. I had just such an experience with my friend Steve Taylor. It was comparable to the Southwest Pastors meeting. We talked about many and various topics, encouraged each other, share a lough or two, and attended a spring training baseball game (front row seats on the first base side) for recreation.

We took time to talk about book publication and how beneficial writing classes can be. Steve is working on a book he hopes will be accepted by a national publishing house. Along with this, Wisdom & Power was discussed. Comments were made about how to improve it with pictures of authors and other illustrations, as well as increasing the readership. W&P is filling a need within the Church of God. We want it to be a real blessing to those who read it.

On a theological note we discussed Ezekiel 13 and how it applies to our day. The words spoken against the false prophets, who spoke from their own imagination, are true today for any teacher who doesn't teach God's wisdom and counsel. There are many sources of counsel, but only Yahweh's will stand in the time of storm. That storm is coming.

There was time for some technology in worship information to be shared. Steve show cased a home made rear projection screen he had put together using waxed paper. I admit I was skeptical when I first heard about it, but seeing it in use changed my mind! It functions as well as a "store bought" screen at a fraction of the cost. We should encourage Steve to share the plans and procedures with everyone.

Steve and I talked about he use of electronic devotions. Steve sends out a devotional nearly every day. Kara Taylor, Steve's daughter-in-law, helps him from time to time by creating devotions. Posting these devotions on blogs is a great way to get the message out to a wider community.

We discussed video conferencing, that is virtually free of cost, through Skype. This is the system that the University of Arizona uses for its video conferencing. Skype (a free downloadable program) allows people around the globe to see each other and talk in real time. You need a web-cam and a microphone is all. This is a great way to have Bible studies that people everywhere could be part of with a high speed internet connection.

Along this same line of discussion was CogCast. This internet radio program, organized by Wally Winner, reaches around the world. They broadcast Church of God sermons and songs. It is a great outreach we should support and promote. Many new readers for W&P have signed up through this medium. The tools we have available now give us great reach in this world for kingdom advancement.

Our final time together was "theology over breakfast". Jim Muldoon joined us and the range of topics we discussed was far ranging. The time went too quickly. The idea of sharing in Bible conferences between Lake Shore Bible Church and Church of the Open Bible came up. Perhaps we could do a spring conference at one church and a fall conference at the other. It's been a long time since we've shared in fellowship like that.

True to the proverb, Steve sharpens me, he helps me be sharp for the battle to advance the kingdom of God. Those couple of days were time well spent. I'm looking forward to the next Southwest Pastors meeting.

Blessing be on you
Chuck Jones

Parables

2009-03-20T10:08:00.001-07:00

The Form of Parables

We were investigating the parable of the sower on Wednesday evening, from Luke 8. There were a couple of definitions of what a parable is: "An earthly story with a heavenly meaning", "A common story with spiritual insight", and "a fictitious story with a moral." All of these help explain what parables are. Beyond the definitions is the reason Jesus used them while he taught. His explanation comes from Isaiah 6:9, which Jesus quotes, "Seeing they may not see, and hearing they may not understand" (Luke 8:10). Let's consider this for a moment.

Have you ever had the experience of witnessing something and failed to grasp the impact of it? Perhaps, like me, you've heard a joke and just didn't get it. Even though all the necessary information was presented, there just didn't seem to be any point to the joke. That's the way many of Jesus' parables were received. Many people just didn't get them.

Look again at the sower parable. What Jesus said, as part of his teaching, could have been received as a report on a regular activity. A man went out to plant some seeds; he lost some on the path, some landed on stones, some among thorns, and some actually made it to the field and produced a hundredfold crop. That sort of thing happened everyday.

A question that I posed at the Bible study was, "If that's all you heard, would you gain any spiritual lesson from that by itself?" It may be difficult to consider this since we know the interpretation Jesus gave, but be honest in your meditation. I, for one, am glad Jesus explained it because I'm sure I wouldn't have come up with the same application. This is where it becomes serious (for me at least), because Jesus said "He who has ears to hear, let him hear" (Luke 8:8). Do I have, I wonder, ears to hear? I don't dwell on that too much because the disciples didn't get it either. They asked Jesus to explain it. I'm thankful he did! His explanation tells me that there are spiritual "lessons" happening all the time. Can you see them? That's what I think are "eyes to see and ears to hear".

Part of our discussion at the Bible study revolved around parables from our daily life. You may have experienced something that seems commonplace but can have an application to the gospel of the kingdom of God. These aren't the lightening bolts from the sky sort of things that jolt us to a new spiritual understanding (although they could), but activities like weeding a garden, getting some exercise, cooking a meal or going to work can be sources of parables.

What it may require is to "put your mind on things above rather than on things of the earth" (Colossians 3:2), so that you begin to have eyes to see and ears to hear.

Now for the commercial break. When this activity takes root in your life, write down what you are thinking about. I have a selfish motive for this: I'd like to put it in the Wisdom & Power magazine. This would be a way for you to serve by writing. Your experiences, and application, could bless people across the world.

Parables are a great way to teach spiritual truths. Take up the habit. Keep your eyes and ears open to common experiences that have a greater, deeper application.

Blessing be on you
Chuck Jones

Are you listening to www.Cogcast.org ?

Don't Envy Them

2009-03-13T16:44:00.001-07:00

There was a cartoon in the paper recently. The panel showed a number of boys jumping off a cliff. One boy was speaking into his cell phone. He was saying, "Mom? Hi, ah, what was that you said about 'if everyone else was jumping off a cliff'? If you get this message in the next few minutes, call me."

There was a glitch in the classic argument about not doing something just because everyone else is. Following the crowd to disaster isn't always as obvious as jumping off a cliff or bridge. There are more subtle ways of doing that very thing, that can have just as disastrous consequences.

Let me highlight five justifications excuses that have been used and are still in use today. Maybe one of them is yours.

Here's the situation. Traffic is slow and the car-pool lane is empty. You, however, are not at the right spot to get in. The car ahead of you goes over the yellow lines. Even though this is breaking the law, the thought comes, "If they can do it, so can I". Or, "If they aren't going to follow the rules, than neither am I". Do you suppose the state trooper would accept either of these excuses?

Here is another one of those justification used to retaliate in like manner, "Everyone is getting even, besides he did it to me first!" Elementary teachers hear this all the time. The thought is that if we've been offended then we have a right to make them pay. Be mindful of whom you are learning from.

These last tactics are similar to each other in that they try to deflect or minimize the guilt. For instance, someone is guilty of fornication. When spoken to about it, their response is, "Well at least I don't drink!" This says, in effect, that one sin is worse than all others and I'm not guilty of that.

This is similar to the next justification that says; "As bad as you think my behavior is, I'm not as bad as so and so." By making a comparison between ourselves and others we come up woefully short. The behavior of others is a poor standard to guide our own. We have one example, that is Jesus.

One last example is attacking the messenger. No doubt you've had this one used on you, to deflect the guilt. When talking to someone about an offense, they shoot back, "well you're not so perfect yourself". They want to change the subject from their behavior to yours. Slick side step.

All of these excuses are used to make us feel better about our sin. We choose to live like those in the broad way of destruction. Think about the crowd you're following.

The wisdom from Proverbs tells us, "Do not let your heart envy sinners [whatever they may be doing or getting] but be zealous for the fear of Yahweh all the day. For surely there is a hereafter and your hope [in Yahweh] will not be cut off' (23:17-18). A related passage tells us, "Don't fret because of evil doers. Nor be envious of the wicked. Because there will be no prospect [anything to look forward to] for the evil man. The lamp of the wicked will be put out" (24:19-20)

When people are confronted because of bad behavior, there really is only one good reaction. That would be repentance. There is more to life than momentary gratification. We understand that there are eternal consequences involved. When you feel wronged or left out, remember the hope we have from Yahweh through Jesus.

Blessing be on you
Chuck Jones

Are you listening to www.Cogcast.org ?

A Promise Made

2009-03-13T16:37:00.001-07:00

A promise made to a child shouldn't be broken. Actually no promise should be, but a child will believe you and not keeping it is what brings skepticism into a life. No doubt we have all had the experience of broken promises in our young lives that is some way affects us now, you learn not to believe. It happens, and it is a sad state of affairs when we apply it to what God has promised. We may not always keep promises, our parents may have let us down, but God will not.

If you were the victim of a broken promise, try to remember the way in which you received, believed, and looked forward to the fulfillment of that promise. That's what Jesus was indicating, I believe, when he said we should receive the kingdom as a child. Not that we should act as children, but we should believe the promises that Yahweh has made, because He will not let us down. It is a matter of integrity for Him to keep His word. Trust that what He has said will come to pass, no matter how bad things look, or how impossible His truth may be. Here are some thoughts from Pastor Steve Taylor about "childlike" faith that I found refreshing. I hope you do as well.

Never underestimate the power of simple faith. A childless old man is asked to believe in descendants too numerous to count.

"And He took him outside and said, "Now look toward the heavens, and count the stars, if you are able to count them." And He said to him, "So shall your descendants be." Then he believed in the LORD; and He reckoned it to him as righteousness." (Genesis 15:5-6)

In a way that only God could, He took Abram outside at night and used the limitless night sky to emphasis His point and promise. Literally, a starry-eyed Abram simply "believed in YAHWEH", and his simple faith was credited to him as pleasing to the Lord. Child-like, simple faith was the prized quality that appropriated the promise.

This passage is vivid in my mind. I picture Abraham standing beside God, like a young child standing next to his parent, looking up at the night sky in wonderment. In child-like innocence he simply accepts the outrageous promise that God makes because of His absolute trust In his Father.

Innocent, child-like faith is more difficult the older we get. The experiences of life can easily fill us with skepticism, pessimism, and callousness. Age and experience have a way of removing child-like innocence and simplicity.

Perhaps Abram's faith was so highly prized because it is so rare in adults. The complexities and realities of adult life had not tainted his innocent inner child, as so characteristically happens to most people.

The loss of innocent, child-like faith is to our own peril: "whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it at all" (Luke 18:17). Accepting that we will be privileged to rule the world together with Jesus at His return is about as outrageous as a childless old man believing that his descendants would be as numerous as the night stars. And yet we, like Abram, are asked to accept this outrageous promise in simple, child-like faith. In a way different than is commonly meant today, listen to your inner child.

Me again. Put away that skepticism, pessimism, and callousness by replacing it with trust. Don't listen to the "adult" arguments, but as Steve wrote, listen to that believing child. It's wonderful, peaceful, and easy to accept.

Blessing be on you
Chuck Jones

Are you listening to www.Cogcast.org ?

Are We Sure?

2009-03-13T16:36:00.001-07:00

There was a tragic story in the Los Angeles Times this past week about a man who unknowingly killed himself. The real tragedy is, I suppose, the fact that he didn't think he was doing anything harmful. The newspaper article revealed that an eighty-two year old man, who had for many years picked and used wild mushrooms. His last trip out turned into tragedy when he mistakenly picked a variety (amanita ocreata) that has deadly toxins. He was confident that these were safe to eat and "really ate a lot of them," his wife had said.

According to the article, the toxins from these deadly fungi worked their way through the man's system and making him very sick, eventually causing a coma, liver failure, and his death.

His family told reporters, "You couldn't tell him anything because he had been lucky for eighty-two years". He had been convinced that these fungi he picked were safe because he had compared them with pictures in a reference book. However, no amount of confidence changed the nature of the toxin filled mushrooms.

My grandparents and my mother would go out and hunt for mushrooms. They limited themselves to the "Morrell" mushroom, which has a distinctive appearance. They didn't trust any other variety.

Back to the article. It made me think of how sad it was that this man cooked up a "heaping plate" of these deadly mushrooms while he was expecting no ill effects. How sad it is, too, that people today are living is such a way that can bring death to them, while not knowing it. I'm not speaking of the death we all must face, I'm thinking of the wages of sin.

People with out the salvation purchased by Jesus are "cooking" up their own demise, and they don't have to. They may be looking for all the pleasure that can get now, with no thought for Yahweh. Idols are just as toxic to the soul as poisonous mushrooms are to the body. Idols promise something good, but in the end bring spiritual destruction. Many people don't see the danger in worshiping things this world has, instead of our Great God, Yahweh.

It is as true today as it was when Jesus uttered the words, "What advantage is there is a person gains the whole world and loses his soul?"

What if this mushroom hunter had been more careful and suspicious in identifying what he picked? The story would have never been told. We also are warned to be on guard, to watch, be sober, and pay attention. What seems harmless, can be deadly, no matter how certain we are to the contrary.

It is easy to speak up when someone is about to unwittingly ingest poison. We'd want to save their life. But, I think, what is more important is saving their soul. It's a fearful thing to fall into the hand of the Living God, without the protection Jesus offers.

Consider the people you work with, live next to, or your family. How many of them are certain things are okay in their lives, but haven't confessed Jesus as Lord? We all are appointed to die once, but it's the judgment that follows which is more important. If you are secure in Christ, help others to find that same security. Don't let them be willingly ignorant of what they are doing and where it will lead.

Blessing be on you
Chuck Jones

Are you listening to www.Cogcast.org ?

Fellowship of the Struggle

2009-02-11T11:15:00.000-08:00

This line came to mind as I was preparing a sermon and I thought it had some merit. The phrase says a couple of things for me, maybe you'll agree after reading this.

Starting with the "struggle" part, first I want to describe what we all know too well; life is full of struggles, especially living the life of righteousness. Jesus taught it this way: "The law and the prophets were till John; but then came the preaching of the kingdom of God, and everyone makes his way into it by force" (Luke 16:16). In broad general terms that struggle (or the use of force) is against sin; it's shedding the old man with his (or her) corrupt ways so we can put on Jesus.

We are instructed to, "...put off concerning your former conduct, the old man, which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts and be renewed in the spirit of your mind and that you put on the new man which was created according to God in true righteousness and holiness" (Ephesians 4:22-23). This applies, without exception, to everyone. However the personal specifics will be different from person to person.

Paul goes on to identify some specific matters in life that are sources for the struggle: our deceitfulness with others (don't lie), personal gratification (be angry without sinning), selfish self-centeredness (don't steal), destructive language (corrupt words), and our tendency to ignore the Holy Spirit. These categories can be broken down even further as each is applied personally. Isn't it sad to see these things displayed in any congregation? If you say "yes" to that question, get busy looking at your "old man", is he (or she) still hanging around? Are you prepared for the struggle? Shedding the old behavior doesn't happen automatically. It is a struggle and it takes force, but it isn't impossible. You've got what it takes to win. God's given us everything, by His divine power for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3). We are winners, but we still must enter the battle.

Take this lopsided illustration for example. What if the Super Bowl champions were to play the Pop Warner champions? There isn't any doubt who would win, but the champions would still have to suit up for, and play the game. That's where we are in our struggle for righteousness; we've been handed a victory, but we have to suit up and get in the game. You can shed the old man regardless of the lies you've heard or the excuses you use.

Getting a handle on this struggle helps in other struggles as well, like dealing with hostile people, an alluring world, loss, or sickness.

Everyone has a story about the struggle whether it's a success or failure. Some choose to remain silent, but there's no help in that. At the least we should be vocal about our struggles with Yahweh, add to that seeking support and guidance from other strugglers and we have the fellowship of the struggle.

Fellowship describes a companion who has something in common, a co-participant (like a team member) who shares the same goal. We are all in this together, we have a common goal of standing before Jesus with joy! This type of fellowship brings together all who struggle, to share the burdens of each other with encouragement, support, and help. Some may find that opening up about their struggles is a struggle in itself. Overcoming that struggle in God's power is liberating. Someone said that a struggle shared is a struggle halved.

Don't avoid the struggle for righteousness, because regardless of your background, you have what it takes to win!

Blessing be on you
Chuck Jones

Are you listening to www.Cogcast.org ?

Put Your Faith Where Your Mouth Is

2009-01-29T21:47:00.001-08:00

Last Wednesday at Bible study we talked about "visible faith" using Luke 5:17-26. I wanted to establish the fact that our faith needs to blossom beyond words. I wondered out loud if faith was a verb? I'm not an English major, but if it isn't, it should be.

Faith that is only professed can't be called "visible faith". Visible faith is what is seen in the actions of those who are living their faith. This is what James said, "What does it profit, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? But someone will say, You have faith and I have works. Show me your faith without works, and I will show you my faith by works" (James 4:14,18).

This was highlighted in our text from Luke 5. As Jesus was teaching in a crowded home, some men carried a paralyzed man to him. Access to Jesus was hindered by the crowd, so they made a hole in the roof and lowered the man down. Verse 20 declares, "When Jesus saw their faith..." Jesus saw that these men displayed visible faith.

In response to their faith Jesus pronounced forgiveness on the paralyzed man. How fantastically wonderful. The faith of those who brought the man was enough for Jesus to set the man free from the prison of guilt, shame, and sin.

Your visible faith can do the same thing. Read that again if you missed it. Yes, the same result. Consider that person, who you may have concluded is "too far gone". Do you believe Jesus can free them from whatever self-imposed prison they are bound by? Well, if not, then of course you wouldn't go to the trouble of introducing them to Jesus. But, if on the other hand, you can say, "Yes I believe the Son can set us free," then put your faith where your mouth is! Turn your invisible faith into visible faith.

The text in Luke gives us a good contrast between visible faith and words only. Let me put it into today's setting. You know someone who is "too far gone". It it possible for this individual to receive forgiveness? That's not to difficult to answer. Looking back, the Pharisees called it blasphemy. They would not have offered it, but we can. Do you?

As the account indicates, Jesus went beyond just talking, by offering proof of what he said. The Paralyzed man got up and carried his bed home. Your friend who is "too far gone" can also receive forgiveness and walk in a new kind of life. Something, perhaps, that wasn't thought possible until your faith became visible.

The record doesn't say how the men felt when they saw the man get up and walk home. I'm sure they hurried down to rejoice with him as he glorified God. You would too, wouldn't you?

Verse 26 tells us that the people who saw this work of faith said, "we have seen strange things today". That's right, your visible faith, seen by others will indeed seem strange in our world today. Amaze those who know you by putting your faith where your mouth is.

Imagine No Religion

2008-11-20T21:18:00.000-08:00

Imagine No Religion

There was a brief article in the paper this week regarding the Freedom From Religion Foundation's billboard message. A picture accompanying the article showed the sign's message: "Imagine No Religion". The co-founder of the foundation is quoted as saying, "This message introduces the belief that our society doesn't need religion to function." The article concluded with a couple of short responses. What follows is mine.

In these sorts of discussions it always a good idea to clarify the definitions that are being use. In the King James Bible the word religion is used only a few times. One place is James 1:26-27. Here the Greek word "threskos" (translated religion) could better be translated worship or service. As religion has today, "threskos, had a double meaning. One was outward ritual the other was worship and service from the heart.

As James says, pure and undefiled religion (or worship) that is acceptable to God is to visit the orphans and widows in their trouble. And to keep separate from the world. Whether we use religion or worship, James' definition stands; "Look out for those less fortunate." I hardly think this is what the Freedom from Religion Foundation is advocating we give up.

For a modern definition, the dictionary tells us that religion is a set of institutionalized attitudes, beliefs, or practices. This may be what the Atheists are apposed to. Religion in this light carries only the trappings of piety. The practices are done wholly for show. In this case the pomp and rituals are empty and meaningless as we will see shortly.

I tend to agree with the Atheists. Hear me out before you judge me. Religion in its institutionalized facade should be allowed to die. These rituals are not the worship of Yahweh. Nor are they the service to others that Jesus championed. Consider the two great commands.

The Old Testament prophets denounced the ritual practices because they didn't affect, nor were they conceived in the heart. In fact Yahweh says, through the prophet Amos (5:21-24) that He hates and despises their sacred assemblies, He will not accept their offerings, or hear their songs. This type of religion is more concerned with controlling behavior by coercion, force and pressure rather than a change of heart. It tends to hypocrisy which is one of the Atheist's complaints.

I realize that some will find offense with this billboard message. There may be some sort of backlash from the institutionalized religious fundamentalists. Those who employ and encourage "religion" will be worried about this threat of people thinking. However, that isn't where their concern should be. They should be worried about what Yahweh, the Great and Awesome God thinks.

Those who worship Yahweh in spirit and truth know He fights for us. We can find confidence in His presence, just as Jesus did. If criticisms arise we can be bold enough to look at them and consider them honestly. There may be something we've over looked.

As I understand the end times, our real challenge will come from those who "have a form of godliness but deny its power." I'm convinced that functioning believers will find the greatest contest with those "who profess to know Yahweh but in works deny Him". I do not believe the primary trouble will come from those who say the God doesn't exist.

Let's hold fast to our faith and live it as worship to the Almighty. What Yahweh desires is truth in the heart, justice toward others with mercy. Not even the Atheists could be against that. Living the truth from the heart will silence the critics as Proverbs 16:7 says, "When a man's ways please Yahweh, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him."

Pastor Chuck

Covenant Relationship

2008-06-25T18:30:00.001-07:00

Covenantal Relationship

Everyone is going to have to answer to God. I've said before that "all roads lead to God, but only one leads to His favorable side!" That favorable side is reserved for His "covenant people.

The word "covenant" may sound strange to us now, but at one tie it was a common word used in legal circles. Much like we use the word "contract' today. As close as that is it isn't exact, it's more like making an arrangement between two parties.

It's for this reason that I counsel an engaged couple that they are entering into a consensual relationship. Marriage is based on our connection to Jesus Christ as the head of the church (see Ephesians 5:22-33), the husband promises to love the wife [as Christ loves the church], and the wife promises to submit to the husband (in the Lord).

From the Old Testament we find covenant used in several places. God made a covenant with Abram in Genesis 15. This may have been done to help Abram know he would inherit the land.

Laben made a covenant with his future son-in-law, Jacob. This was made perhaps because neither one trusted the other (see Genesis 31:44-ff). This was, however, a covenant that God witnessed.

A covenant between two friends was made by David and Jonathan. Jonathan gave David his robe, armor, sword, belt , and bow ( 1 Samuel 18:4). It is as if David became Jonathan by this covenant. Consider this as you think about the armor of God, and marriage.

Another covenant is the one Yahweh made with Israel as He elected Israel, and they in turn accepted the terms of obedience at Sinai, after the exodus from Egypt. They were to acknowledge Yahweh as their King and Deliverer. They did for a short while.

The covenant relationship isn't meant to be simply a legal contract. Consider marriage. It's more than a contract between a man and a women that lists out all the duties of the husband and the wife. That would be impossible. The husband is to love his wife and do what is necessary for her welfare, and likewise the wife is to care for her husband. The covenant relationship of marriage is a promise made by each (or at least it should be) to learn about and care fore each other and no one else!

The "old" covenant Yahweh made with Israel, the law written in stone, was meant to bring His people into fellowship with Him as King. He wanted His people to be free to approach Him. That didn't work because the hearts of the people weren't in it. The ritual became more important than the relationship. Yahweh had to change things.

This is where the 'new' covenant comes into the picture. The Messiah would come for a new covenant. He would show the way, the truth, and the life that Yahweh is pleased with (see Isaiah 42:6 and 49:8). Actually, Jeremiah 31:31 predicts this new covenant when Yahweh's ways are written on our hearts. It's not longer a matter of ritual, but one of relationship. Yahweh is in us, filling us.

If you read Hebrews 8-9 you will read what Jeremiah said. Hebrews 9 shows the difference between the two covenants. Here we find out about the eternal redemption through Christ's blood (vs 12-14). So that those who are in a conventual relationship with Yahweh have the promise of an eternal inheritance (vs 15).

Covenants can be ignored or broken. Trust in this new covenant that Jesus sealed with his blood between you and Yahweh.

spiritual warfare

2008-06-21T18:13:00.001-07:00

The Spiritual War

In Ephesians 6:13-16 we have a list of the whole armor of God. Paul describes our weapons as compared to a soldier's armor and weapons. This isn't intended to give us a list of physical implements of war, rather as a guide to help us know how we are able to stand against the wiles or schemes of the devil, trickery of men, and cunning craftiness of deceitful people.

Our first defense is truth. There are false allegations floating around about God's activity in the universe. There are lies about how He wants His children to live. There are untrue teachings about how He wants us to worship. For these reasons (and more) we need to be bound up in His truth, not just knowing it but living it. His word is truth. Therefore we need to live by every word, response, or answer that comes from the mouth of God.

Righteousness is the next defense that will protect our hearts. You may have, from time to time, thought that you weren't "good enough" for God. That indeed may be true, but the righteousness we have is not our own. It's righteousness which we have through faith in Christ. That in Christ we are right before God. Christ has made us right, not anything we have done. That's what we put our trust in.

Peace is also a defense for God's people. There are countless ways for people to be divided, turn against each other, and separate themselves. However there is one good reason not to allow ourselves to fall into this human response to people who drive us nuts. We have the good news of peace. God's children are peace makers! God has granted us the divine response that overcomes all the forces, lies, and reasons that divide people. The Apostle Paul put it like this, "The God of peace will bruise Satan's head under your feet shortly" (Romans 16:20). We are equipped to stand against the forces of disunity.

The fourth defense mentioned is faith. This is the quality that gives confidence to all the others. Whatever the fiery darts may be, faith is what quenches or douses them. Faith removes whatever power they may appear to have. We can either trust in God or His enemies. We can either be receptive to God's will, or our own.

The knowledge of salvation is mentioned next. Knowing that God's kingdom is coming, and our citizenship is there, will help us stand against all the trouble we see (and experience) around us. God's ultimate triumph then, and Christ's victory now will keep that living hope alive. We won't be ashamed!

The final piece of defense is the sword of the spirit or the word of God. Let me state the obvious: all the other defenses we have are contained in the word. The revelation of all of these comes from what God has determined to tell us. Read it, take it in, meditate on it, and believe it.

We have been equipped with the spiritual armor necessary to both stand and overcome. Let's not disappoint the One who has armed us so completely.

Pastor Chuck

Professing Christians Functioning Athesists

2008-06-12T14:08:00.001-07:00

This title may sound like an oxymoron, but it isn't. There can be a vast difference between what we say we believe (profession) and how we live out those beliefs (function).

Those who are brave enough (those who have the courage only God's spirit can produce) to look honestly into their heart may be shocked to see that what is professed is not the same as what's practiced. This is why truth is so important.

We want others to be truthful but we first must demand it our ourselves. God desires truth in our inner man more than "playing church" (See Psalm 51:6).

Although we may attend church and Bible studies. There is the prospect that at all other times we keep God at bay by our distractions. Distractions can range from T.V. shows, sporting events, shopping, eating, computers and hobbies. Often times these serve to keep God out of our thoughts!

We can keep God silent with our music or other background noise. We can ignore God through intoxication. All of this serves to show what we truly believe.

How we respond to others people also reveals what we think of God's commands. We can give lip service to all the right things, but what is played out in our lives is far more important!

I'd go so far as to say that even theological debates can keep us from responding to life by faith. Again, it comes down to the difference between how we talk and how we live. It's great to talk about God (teaching a class or preaching a sermon) but it's more important to live for, love, and fear God. This is going to show in how we respond to the disappointments of life.

Church building can fall into this as well. It could be someone is working hard for their own monument. Even while saying "God gets the glory" (because we can lie about that). Again, it shows in how one responds to the discouragement of life. How one responds to plans being changed. This reveals who one thinks is really in control.

Doubts, those unseen claws, can rip away the masks of our polite Christianity. When our professions are only surface level, they are easily removed. This is when folks will go their own way. They lean on their own understanding. They do their own thing rather than put fain in a trustworthy God. They will live like they actually believe.

It's scary but true. People can profess to be Christian but live life without God. That is a functional atheist. Where is the truth? Not in our profession (or confessions). Do you believe God will provide? Even when the money is gone? Do you believe God is forgiving? Even when your past sins assail you? Do you believe God's way of forgiving and reconciling is the best? Even as you recall your personal hurts? Do you believe He will be with you as you face the hard, shameful, disgusting things in your life?

To these questions we could answer "yes," but respond in complete contradiction. The life of a Christian isn't found in what we say we believe, but in how we live what we believe.

God will give you the courage, honesty, and help to bring the two into agreement. Go for it.

Pastor Chuck

Thke High Dive

2008-06-06T21:01:00.001-07:00

Witnessing and The High Dive

Here's a little background to my diving experience. I learned to dive off my grandmother's dock into shallow water. The first few attempts ended painfully. So I put on a tee shirt to soften the sting. Before long I was able to do it without "belly-flops".

Then came a swimming pool with a high dive, how intimidating! Others were going off in quick fashion, so I had to face this rite of passage. The boards always look higher when you're up there then it did from the deck, and the board was so narrow. I mustered my courage and walked out. There I stood. I didn't want to look like a "chicken" by climbing down so there was only one way to go. "Just do it" I said to myself.

"No wait a minute, myself replied.

"Kids are coming up the ladder, you better do it!" I thought. So I did. I stepped off and I lived to talk about it. In fact it was fun. I jumped off many more times, it was great.

Then came the next challenge, "Dive off, Chicken," yelled my brother, who hadn't yet himself.

Oh boy, the pain I experienced when I first learned to dive was magnified by the 15 feet between me and the water. "Okay, here goes," I said, and did it. Before I knew it I was in the water and I survived it. Besides that I found out this was, by far, more fun!

I relate this story as a basis for overcoming the fear that keeps us from what we can do. I want to apply it to all the excuses you may have for not witnessing. Stop believing those excuses and do it.

So, here are four levels of growth in witnessing using my diving experience.

To start, we need to be able to talk to people. This is like jumping into the shallow water. The ban on talking to strangers is reserved for young children, not adults. Try starting by saying something friendly to someone. Try to avoid the "how ya' doing?" opening. Use something open ended, like "It look like you're having a good day..." Speak to what you see in the others body language.

The next stage is to engage them in conversation. People usually like to talk about themselves, so give them an opportunity to do that. Be a good listener! This is about as scary as diving off the first time. It won't be smooth, but don't give up. I will become easier with experience. Keep getting that experience.

The third level is compared to jumping off the high dive. As you converse with people draw out additional information so you may understand their lives better. It's important to remember here to avoid being shocked by what you may find out, and to also avoid being judgmental or condemning.

At the end of this is the final level. Once you've engaged people and have an understanding, then comes the "head first dive off high board." Offer them God's wisdom. Share what you've found to be true. Tell them you understand (if in fact you do) and how you can see their present situation. Especially if you have been there too and how God has made a difference in your life. This makes for a great connection.

Once you've "been there and done that" you will realize a joy that surpasses "keeping silent". You'll want to do it again and again.

Confess your fears, name them one by one. Rely on God's presence and see what He can do with you. You will move to the next level.

Season of Love

2007-12-20T11:37:00.000-08:00

Among the topics of Christmas we find the topic of love. This time of year, when presents are on our minds, we are reminded of God's love for us. His love was demonstrated towards us, while we were estranged or enemies toward Him, when He sent His son to die for us. It's important to note that the love God has for us is seen by giving us an unspeakable gift.

How many times have you noticed the word love attached to things, events, and people when it's really an inward focused announcement of self gratification? People "love" stuff because of what they get out of it, people included. Too often this declaration of love is based on feelings. The problem is that love, especially God's sort, is not an emotion. The sort of love we are reminded about this time of year is behavior. It's not a matter of how you feel but what you do.

The love God extends toward us is for our benefit. He had our welfare in mind. He did for us, what we couldn't do for ourselves. In fact there are many people who aren't even thankful for what was done. Yet His love is for the whole world, as John 3:16-17 tells us; "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved."

God's love for us is what we reflect to others. Like the dead, lifeless moon reflects the light of the sun, so we too, who were dead, can reflect the brilliance of the love of God. Is it easy? Consider how much effort the moon has to put into shining. It absorbs some light and reflects some light. We can do the same with God's love.

Reflecting God's love is important. 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 brings to our attention that no amount of spirituality, Bible knowledge, or benevolence will replace showing God's love. The displays of spirituality, the prominence of Bible knowledge and the acts of benevolence, without love add up to nothing! That's right. Parading oneself as being some body has no value. Reflecting God's love is what has value.

Further on in 1 Corinthians 13, we are told how God's love is defined. Read verses 4-7 twice. The first time through substitute "God" for "love". Consider how this is true in your life. See if this isn't the way God acts toward you. After that read the text a second time substituting your name in place of "love". How revealing is that? Those places where the definition doesn't fit, reveal where you are absorbing God's love, but not reflecting it. What may be causing this is found in 1 Corinthians 13:11, where we read, "...when I became a man, I put away childish things."

All of the childish things can be summed up in what is selfish. Acting for our own gratification. Living in the brightness of God's love, but not passing it on to others. That's a mistake. Scripture tells us; "...because as He is, so are we in this world" (1 John 4:17). It's the love of God in us that makes us shine in the world.

"And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ" (Philippians 1:9-10).

Pastor Chuck

More on Faith and Reason

2007-12-01T10:14:00.001-08:00

I want to visit this topic once again. This is not, I'm sure, the last time however. I've been reading two seemingly unrelated pieces of literature; The Brothers Karamazov and the works attributed to Gregory Thaumaturgus, a third century Bishop at Neo Caesarea. Although one is fiction and the other non-fiction, they both have philosophical underpinnings.

Novels having foundations in philosophy are common. What the author has to say, about any topic, will come out in the story. What I find disturbing is that Gregory relied heavily upon Greek philosophy to teach what he considered the truth of Scripture. He often gave philosophy the preeminent position against Scripture.

Here is where the necessity for being separate from the world, and its wisdom, is very important. Because it is vital to know from where the direction for our lives comes from. We may not be students of Greek philosophy, but we may be students of the world's wisdom, nonetheless.

I'm of the opinion that we can use the world's wisdom as a way of illustrating Scripture, but by no means use it to interrupt it. Scripture always trumps the world's wisdom.

Humans like to be recognized for their ideas (don't we!). When a problem or question comes up it feels good to be the one with the solution or answer. That's natural, but the problem comes when we give answers to the "unseen" issues of life from human wisdom and not scripture. Human's wisdom will inevitably lead us astray.

These unseen issues are matters of salvation, who we are and how we are made, our conscience, life in the age to come, questions about God, and such things.

Institutions of higher learning tend to excite our power of reason against Scripture. The movie industry tends to excite our emotions against God's truth. Television personalities tend to excite our practicalities against what God has said. These are the things we should be aware of. The new ideas are not always the best ideas.

Scripture tells us that the wisdom of men is foolishness to God in comparison (1 Corinthians 1:20-25). All the new ideas that can be reasoned from man's intellect are empty compared to what God has revealed. In fact we are told that we don't need another source for life and godliness but the scriptures. "As His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust" So for me there is no need to look elsewhere.

As for my reading. It is for entertainment and understanding. Not that I agree with all that I read, but I do gain knowledge of how and why others come to their conclusions. So I'd encourage you to read. Not just the fiction, but what Christian non-fiction authors have to say. As you read their works don't take everything as the gospel truth (myself included). Try to gain an understanding of their wisdom (philosophy) and if it is fully grounded on Scripture.

This is what Paul says: "And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God" (1 Corinthians 2:4-5).

Pastor Chuck

Addict

2007-10-27T10:45:00.001-07:00

I find it interesting to explore the origins of words. Especially if the modern use is different from the way it was used centuries ago. One such word is addict.
That word may conger up some unsavory images in your mind because of how we use it today but that wasn't always the case. I was able to find out that the word "addict" was used in different ways hundreds of years ago. It was used as a legal term meaning "to deliver someone over by the sentence of a judge." The prisoner was "addicted" to prison.
Another sense of the word was used in a more casual way in conversation. A person would announce that he was an addict of the theater, sports, or a hobby. Much in the same way we use the word "fan" now. (We have adopted the suffix "oholic" also and connect it to chocolate, shopping, etc. Like chocoholic, or shopocholic).
Formally the word "addict" meant "made over (not like the popular "make-overs") or bound to another. Attached by restraint (chains perhaps) or obligation (like an employment agreement). Addict also carried the meanings of "obliged, bound, devoted and consecrated". We as believers could be called (under the old usage) addicted to God. More on that later.
With the modern usage of this word, it would sound quite odd for us to use "addict" in connection with God. Today it carries a more negative connotation. The sad fact is that today if someone is called an addict, it usually refers to a broken life of bondage to drugs or alcohol.
The Bible doesn't use the word "addict", but it does describe that state of being. Scripture tell us, "For by whom a person is overcome, by him also he is brought into bondage" (2 Peter 2:19).
Think of the addict who just experimented with drugs to try them out. More times than not that person will acknowledge that they were "overcome" by those experiments and now is in bondage, or a slave to it.
We are told in another place, "all things are lawful for me, but all things are not helpful (profitable). All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of anything" (1 Cor. 6:12). That's being overcome and bound under the power of whatever on is addicted to.
Are you "addicted"? You can turn your affection over to something new. It sounds simple, but it may be very difficult to accomplish. But it can be! Here is how it works; "For just as you presented your members (body) as slaves of uncleanness and of lawlessness leading to more lawlessness, so now present your members as slaves of righteousness for sanctification" (Romans 6:19). We can be addicted to God.
Your flesh may be weak, but if your spirit is willing it can be done in the Power of God. The weak flesh needs to be disciplined, when it cries out for its wants and desires. Turn to God for His grace in that time of need. Strengthen the spirit and deny the flesh. We need not be under the power of anything but God.
Pastor Chuck

Speaking of the Lord...

2007-10-12T13:08:00.000-07:00

You must have heard the disclaimer, "Don't try this at home". It comes during a stunt or exhibition that could be dangerous. So the producers of the video don't want to be blamed for giving someone an idea that turns out disastrous.
I've also heard the phrase, "This is best left to the trained professionals," connected with don't try this. Problem is that the idea is already planted in the mind of someone who thinks they can give it a try.
There are some things you can try on your own which you might see on television. The shows which give you tips on home repairs, cooking, or gardening. These can be useful if you've ever been stuck in a project.
Another activity you can do at home is Bible reading. Set aside some time and read two or three chapters to other family members. Opening the Bible doesn't need to be restricted to Sunday mornings. Talking about the Bible doesn't need to be left to the professionals.
I recognize that bringing up the Bible or spiritual matters isn't an easy thing to do. As a pastor I find it difficult sometimes to bring spiritual principle into a conversation. But as water will always find a hole in the pipe, if we are ready for the opportunity, it will come.
For the most part, I'm comfortable talking to strangers (Don't tell my mom). At the stores I frequent, I like to take advantage of name tags and greet the cashier by name. "Hi (whomever) how are you?" Or some such greeting. Even the person who is bagging the groceries doesn't go unnoticed. It isn't impolite to speak God's blessing on them. On more than several occasions a cashier has greet me again with a smile of recognition and a longer conversation. I've gotten prayer requests while buying hardware. I've learned about dying parents while buying groceries. I've invited people to church while spending money at restaurants.
The check-out line is a good place to practice. Pay attention to their facial expression and respond accordingly. Ask them how their day (or shift) is going. Give them some encouraging words of how well they are helping you. Then allow the conversation to go where the other person wants to take it. Be ready to tell of what God has done for you.
When it comes to showing God's presence in the market place, you are a professional! You've been trained by the best (Jesus), and equipped with God's spirit. So even if you have a complaint, it can be a blessed experience for you and the business involved.
Some things shouldn't be tried at home on your own. Some things should be done at home and on your own. Speak to strangers in the power of God and on behalf of Jesus. Wow, what an experience.
I'd like to hear how this goes for you. It may help others to be bold also.

Pastor Chuck

Being Protected

2007-09-22T20:56:00.001-07:00

Being Protected

All the elements fell into place. There was a large bare spot in the lawn, I had the tools to work up the dirt, grass seed was in my possession, and the weather was good for planting. So, I thought it would be a good time to get this job off my to-do list.
As I started to scratch the ground and pull out the old dead grass, I remembered I had forgotten something; my gloves (in the old days we called them hand shoes). I felt the pressure on the palm of my hand, but I thought, "I don't want to take the time to go all the way back and get them, my hands are tough enough for this, I don't need that protection."
You can probably tell (because I'm writing this) that wasn't the case. It felt uncomfortable but I pressed on. I couldn't see anything where the pain was, so I finished. After I was done with all the sprinklers in place, the tools put away, and I was washing my hands, I found it. A dime size blister on the palm of my left hand. I was the worse for wear!
Now I had to put up with the blister. I couldn't grab anything I needed to twist for fear of ripping the that blister open. So, it wasn't only the blister, but the inability to do certain tasks. All because I didn't want to take the time to get my gloves, and I thought my hands were up to the job. Foolish isn't it?!
Well, I've learned my lesson. This may also help you. Not just in physical labor, but in spiritual things as well. Let me explain.
In our daily activities and interactions we face all sorts of difficult events, people and temptations. God has given us His armor for our protection. Not only protection but also so we can do the job correctly. You can read about it in Ephesians 6:10-18.
We face difficult people, circumstances, trying decisions and pressures every day. Many people deal with them in their own power, understanding or wisdom. In spite of the fact that God has provided us protection.
Like my reasoning about my gloves, "I don't want to take time to pray about this, I know how to handle it!" What a mistake. Just as I had to deal with the inconvenience of my blister, people who face life without God's protection too, have to suffer through inconvenience because of their mistake.
I've known people who avoid people because a conflict wasn't handled with God's protection. Take lying for instance. The liar can't be at peace in a conversation, but has to suffer the fear of discovery or exposure. All because they try to face life with lies. Consider too, the person who faces life with drugs or alcohol. There are many "inconveniences" connected to that practice.
Take Paul's advice. Put on the whole armor of God so you can stand up strong and godly when life happens. That's the only right way to do life.

Pastor Chuck

Some encouragement

2007-09-14T10:40:00.001-07:00

The Life Long Race

Real life for believers starts with a touch from God. The Bible tells us that it's the goodness of God that brings us to repentance. That touch of God's grace on our lives points us to the need of change. However, the knowledge that a change is needed is not the only phase. It demands that a choice be made.
The choice is whether to continue on our old course of life or make the necessary change of direction toward the kingdom. Jesus stated that, "the kingdom of God is at hand, repent and believe this good news." It's one thing to know we need to repent, it is altogether another to actually repent. One of the first acts a person can do to show this desire of change is to be baptized.
Baptism is just the beginning. The life of believers has been compared to a race. Not the short distance dashes but to a marathon. It's a long distance, life long race. So, baptism is just the starting line. It points us in the right direction; towards the finish line.
Being baptized in the name of Jesus for the remission of sins will unload all the baggage we have carried to that point. The promise of God's spirit will help insure that whatever baggage we may be confronted with, does not need to be carried along.
The race course of our lives has been marked out by Jesus himself. That's why he makes the invitation to follow him. The desire to please our Master is what keeps us in the race. There are adjustments to be made along the way, to be sure, which keeps the necessity of repenting and confessing a regular activity.
Another motivation for continuing is the hope of seeing Jesus face to face. Many children look forward to the safe return of fathers, and mothers, from the war. What great expectations arise from the hope of that meeting? Some children may have never met the absent parent. Yet still the meeting is full of anticipation.
In the same way we can look forward to the joy of meeting Jesus. It may sound like an empty promise to some, but for believers, it keeps us in the race looking for the finish line when Jesus will say, "Well done".
Yes indeed, the return of Jesus and the resurrection from the grave will make all the hardships we face now forgettable. The face to face presence of Jesus, a new resurrected body (that won't wear out like the current model), and the kingdom on earth are grand prizes for finishing. God will give us the help we need by His spirit to complete the course.
The believers life is a life of faith. We trust that what is written is true. It's the same sort of faith Jesus displayed, and he asks us to follow him.
In short, we have left our dead-end life and exchanged it for a life of promise, hope, and great reward. Don't give up, it will be worth it all when we see Jesus.

2007-06-29T12:28:00.001-07:00

I had a call today from one of the most infamous men in the country. I was honored. We spoke and blessed each other. I may not be as famous as he, but we do share some things in common.
That made me think about Jesus. What do we have in common with him? Do we suffer for the sake of the truth? Do we suffer because we want to talk about Jesus? Not hardly in this present world. Especially in the USA. Is non suffering a problem OR a blessing?
The man I talked with has received death threats. Could you live with that? He has receive them because he wants to teach with the Bible says, not traditional doctrine. Why would some who say they follow Jesus want to threaten others with death? I think because they have no truth to stand on.
Consider for yourself the next time you 'want to rip someone's face off' why? Because they are true, and you have no rebuttal? They speak the truth, and it cuts deeply?
The use of physical harm as a tool isn't evangelism. It is extortion. Those who employ such tactics won't inherit the kingdom.

How Do We Read the Bible

2007-06-28T13:53:00.001-07:00

You know that it is hard not to bring our 'baggage' into a conversation. The same is true when we read the Bible. Some of us have (well all of us) preconceived notions about what the Bible teaches. We come at it from positions that are loaded with what we have heard from teachers, what we have seen in movies, and even what we have sung in hymns. Those may not be the best sources for truth of what is in the Bible.
Here are some phrases that may help to illustrate the point: You can look at most of these statements from several different points of view. So, ask yourself, do I have enough information to know what is being said?

1. A farmer went out to plow a field, with a...

2. He was 'flying high'. In or on what?

3. She is burning a disc. Like the Olympic games

4. Could you drive me home? Like someone would drive a mule?

5. They scored. At what?

Each of these five phrases needs to have questions answered before the statement can be understood. The same is true of Biblical Scripture. The old Testament was written in Hebrew, by Hebrews. The new testament was written in Greek by Hebrews. Just because it was written in Greek doesn't mean that the writers had a Greek mind set. Here's an illustration. I have a friend who is German. She speaks very good English. I wanted to entertain her with the movie "Brother,Where Art Thou". It didn't work. She wasn't able to catch all the subtle details of the 'jokes'. Even though she spoke English. The point is, she still 'thought like a German'.
So too, the writers of the New Testament. They spoke Greek, but thought in terms of the Hebrews. We ought not think that because the New Testament was written in Greek that the writers thought with the Greek philosophical mind set. I think that it is best to take the New Testament in terms of what the Old Testament says. That will bring us closer to what the writers had in mind.
Pastor Chuck

inspireblog

2006-11-28T08:29:00.000-08:00

inspireblog

For sure between now and Christmas, you will encounter a talk or discussion on the genealogy of Jesus. As I looked over the list of people in Matthew chapter one, I thought about my ancestors. I don’t know most of them beyond my great grandmother. I have visited my great-grandfather’s grave in Grand Detour, IL, but that’s about as far back as I can go
So I wondered, how many people could be in my past? Well, I started an inverted pyramid with myself, my parents, their parents, and so on (This does not include siblings). I did the math on 10 generations back. Now assuming everyone had two parents, that would mean there were 1,024 people that had a hand in my gene pool. That’s going back somewhere between 400-500 years.
This is true of all of us. Now going back to Matthew 1:17, we’re told that fourteen generations were between Abraham and David. Another fourteen between David and the Babylon captivity; still yet another from the exile to Christ. That’s a total of 42 generations.
Here’s your Bible math quiz. If you double one, forty two times, how many people would that be?
What’s the point in all of this? Well, I think it’s more than wonderful that Jesus was born when he was. Consider all the variables in design here. I think that Psalm 139 is primarily descriptive of Jesus being "fearfully and wonderfully made," and born when the time was right.
Now the math for Jesus would be different than for us. When you work out the figure for forty two generations (whatever that figure may be), you have to divide it by two. Why? Because the side representing Joseph doesn’t count. Joseph wasn’t really Jesus’ father; God is.
Those that fall to Mary’s side do count, because she was his mother. Jesus was ( as all of us were) conceived in his mother. The difference was that the conception came through the holy spirit of God. It’s for that very reason that Jesus is called the Son of God.
Yes, you will no doubt hear messages about the genealogy of Jesus before this Christmas season is over. But give it some thought. Look over the names. There are some famous and infamous people mentioned in the line of Christ. Yes, there are some skeletons in the closet.
Check out the birth of Perez by Tamar. Oh, what a scandal. Ruth and Boaz add a nice romantic touch to the tale. Solomon, who was king, was the son of David by Uriah’s wife. Remember that story of adultery and murder? King Manasseh was remarkable for how low he had fallen from God’s way (he did repent although).
I wonder what sort of individuals I’d find in my past. Perhaps both famous and infamous.

2006-09-25T18:26:00.000-07:00

From the Pastor
"Why make such a big deal out of a small thing?" That’s often repeated when subtle differences are brought up. It may not seem like a big deal, but sometimes it’s the small things that can cause us the biggest trouble.
A mother asks her son, "Are your hands clean?" The boy gives them a quick visual inspection and announces them clean. "Go wash your hands," the mother replies, "your hands may look clean, but that doesn’t mean they are!"
Ah, yes, the old "well they look clean" response. Perhaps you remember from your history or health class that at one time doctors didn’t always wash their hands between patients. Although they "looked" clean, what went unnoticed were the germs they were passing on. A small thing? It was at the time but not any longer. Aren’t you glad that the health professionals, so long ago, made a big deal out of such a small thing? We wouldn’t even consider it a small thing now, because we know what a huge risk it posses.
So, I think it’s safe to assert that with more knowledge comes a greater understanding of the risk, which then changes the deal from small to significant. When we know what our actions, or choices could cause, then it should give us pause to seriously consider them.
Often times our attachment to the world falls into the same category. What we are comfortable with accepting from the world (contrary to Scripture) is looked upon as "no big deal". We want God to accept our involvement the same as we do. The well worn argument, "Well God wants us to be happy," is often used to bolster our attachment to the worldly things that we find pleasure in. I think that God wants us to be obedient more than He wants us to be happy. Being obedient will make us happy.
Here’s the danger; the cares of this world can rob you of your fruit bearing capabilities. (Read the first half of John 15) This happens because our attention is on worldly matters and concerns, and not on kingdom matters and concerns. We focus too much on what we want to be happy and not on what makes God happy. When we focus on our own stuff it becomes "all about me," someone offended me, someone hurt my feelings, things aren’t going well for me, I’m tired, I’m sick, I want to be alone. When its all about me, my activities are all important, my schedule, my time, my material possessions all become exalted above God. They in fact become gods and we think that if I had what I want, I’d be okay. Those lessor gods don’t let us serve the Almighty God.
So, is it a big deal to sleep in on Sundays, plan activities to replace worship? It might not seem like it, especially if you are enjoying it. But that’s the beginning of a deadly process that will leave you barren and unfruitful. Ask God to help inspect your ties to the world and break those that bring about unfruitfulness.

Former things won't be remembered

2005-02-01T10:27:00.000-08:00

California had suffered from some heavy weather this winter. It reminds me of a weatherman saying, "We are having more weather than usual." The fact is hard things happen in life. We live in a physical world where disasters occur. Does that mean that god doesn’t take notice? I think not.
There are many people who are not acquainted with God, who will point to natural disasters as proof God doesn’t exist. That’s like saying the because crimes are committed the law, or police don’t exist. The newspaper reported on a murder case that hasn’t been resolved in over fifteen years. Yet with a suspect in custody, the courts of men move slowly. Would we feel better if God was more swift in His pronouncement of justice?
The world has just celebrated (if that’s the right word?) Sixty years after the liberation of the Nazi death camp, Auschwitz. As part of the ceremony, a Jewish Cantor sang a song longing for the messiah. This is the one who will make all things right. Does this say anything about suffering in the present world today?
Part of the answer is found in us. Don’t you agree, that today we expect too much from man’s understanding? Too often we expect immediate satisfaction. I’m guilty of this. I don’t like long lines, especially at fast food places. If I can’t get what I want, when I want it, I get disturbed. I have been known to leave before ordering.
All of this is to say that we, as believers, don’t need to worry about what God is or is not doing in respect to disasters (man made or natural). The time will come when He will make everything right. We find relief in the fact that the insurance companies will make payments to us for losses we have suffered. That relief comes often before the payments are received. Should we respond any differently with the promise God has made?
I’m reminded of the passage that tells us, "the former things will not come to mind" (Rev. 21:4). This isn’t talking about a "quick fix" to help get beyond. This is real. What I in store for us is so much better than what we know now, that this present life won’t come to mind.
Here are a couple of examples. When you received your last pay raise, did you live differently? The old situations were gone. You could save, buy things you needed, the new situation replaced the old one. How about when you felt lonely, then found that special person? The old life was left behind. Sure you could remember it, but it was no longer the focus of your life. One more. Remember the old car you had? For one reason or another it was replace with the new car. At that time your driving experience was changed. The old situation no longer directs.
Our lives now may be plagued with difficulties, but there is something better coming, when our Messiah comes! Then we will know by experience what the Apostle Paul said, "The suffering of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that will be revealed in us" (Romans 8:18). Take heart in that and wait on God.
Pastor Chuck