Of Faith and Deeds
"What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him? Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed, but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. But someone will say, You have faith; I have deeds.
Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do. You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.... As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead."
James 2:14-19,26
It has been said men live in deeds not in time. It should be this way for Christian as James said faith without deeds is dead.
People remember what we do, positive and negative. As Christians we cannot live our lives half heartedly the eternal resting place of others are depending on us.
The late reverend Martin Luther King Jr. Prayed,
We thank thee for thy Church, founded upon thy Word, that challenges us to do more than sing and pray, but go out and work as though the very answer to our prayers depended on us and not upon thee.
Then, finally, help us to realize that man was created to shine like stars and live on through all eternity.
In Judaism there is a term tzedakah, Rabbi Noah Weinberg describes it this way
The Hebrew word "tzedakah" is commonly translated as "charity" or "tithe." But this is misleading. "Charity" implies that your heart motivates you to go beyond the call of duty. "Tzedakah," however, literally means "righteousness" -- doing the right thing. A "tzaddik," likewise, is a righteous person, someone who fulfills all his obligations, whether in the mood or not.
As Christians we have an obligation to our fellow man. We must do all we can to introduce him Jesus Christ and the salvation only He can give. At the same time however we cannot expect anyone to even be interested in coming to Jesus if his basic needs are not met.
At the same time we cannot expect people to listen to us if we are not representing Jesus by our deeds and actions.
Over the years I have met many men and women who have told me they "are Christians and were proud of it." had they not told me in many cases I would not have known. These people attended church and followed the ritual but they still felt obligated to tell me they were Christians.
By contrast I have met men and women who have never said a word to me yet by their words and deeds I have know beyond a shadow of a doubt that they are true believers in Christ.
It is this last group of men and women we need to copy.
Think about it.
About Me
Monday, 26 December 2011
Tuesday, 20 December 2011
Mercy
“Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment!” James 2: 12,13
Now remember here that James is writing to believers. Giving them direction in how to live there life.
There is a quote from the Talmud that while not scripture recognized by Christians, I think exemplifies what James is saying it states.
“When a man appears before the Throne of Judgment, the first question he is asked is not, “Have you believed in God?” Or “Have you prayed and observed the ritual? “He is asked: “have you dealt honourably and faithfully in all your dealings with your fellow men?”
The Talmud
I think its something we all need to think about. If we are to call ourselves Christians we need to live the life Christ would expect of us. We need to show mercy even to our enemies. Jesus did say love your enemies.
In all of our dealings we need to deal honourably and faithfully with our fellow man, so that they may see we are believers without us even saying a word.
Now remember here that James is writing to believers. Giving them direction in how to live there life.
There is a quote from the Talmud that while not scripture recognized by Christians, I think exemplifies what James is saying it states.
“When a man appears before the Throne of Judgment, the first question he is asked is not, “Have you believed in God?” Or “Have you prayed and observed the ritual? “He is asked: “have you dealt honourably and faithfully in all your dealings with your fellow men?”
The Talmud
I think its something we all need to think about. If we are to call ourselves Christians we need to live the life Christ would expect of us. We need to show mercy even to our enemies. Jesus did say love your enemies.
In all of our dealings we need to deal honourably and faithfully with our fellow man, so that they may see we are believers without us even saying a word.
Friday, 16 December 2011
Of Rich and Poor
Equality
“My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don’t show favoritism. Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,” have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?” James 2:1-4
To quote a friend of mine “God don’t show favouritism nor should we.” My pastor when doing a sermon about the widows mite(Luke 21:1-4) once noted something about some television evangelist.
At the time there were a couple offering a nice plaque for contributions over a thousand or a hundred dollar donations. While people donating less got nothing. He noted that those who donated less than a hundred or a thousand dollars more than likely donated a larger percentage of their income to the ministry. He also noted that perhaps without realizing it they were showing favouritism.
It is important within our church that we not show favouritism of any kind.
“Listen, my dear brothers: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him? But you have insulted the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court? Are they not the ones who are slandering the noble name of him to whom you belong? James 2:5-7
According to James it is those who are poor in the eyes of the wold to be rich in faith and inherit the kingdom of God.
For a poor person quite often their faith is all they have.
I think of believers in the third world. Many are so poor they have to rely on God for their next meal.
The same is true about some believers here in the west although we don’t really see it. It’s only when we look at the proliferation of food banks that we notice.
James notes that the rich exploit people. Drag the poor into court and even slander the name of Christ.
This is not to say all rich people are alike there are many wealthy people who spend vast portions of their wealth to help the poor and impoverished in this world.
However sadly there are those who do exploit the poor. Around the world we see sweat shops using child labour and low wages to better their bottom line.
It’s notable here in the west many companies that are doing well move their production facilities from areas where wages and benefits are good to areas where wages and benefits are less. All this in the name of profit.
Sadly some Christians invest in such companies, not taking an interest in what they are doing, only happy with the return on their money. Sadly also some of the executives of these companies who make the decisions do attend church claiming to be believers which they may very well be.
This portion of scripture is written to them as warning. James make it clear saying,
“If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing right. But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers. For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it. For he who said, “Do not commit adultery,” also said, “Do not murder.” If you do not commit adultery but do commit murder, you have become a lawbreaker.”
James 2: 8-11
“My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don’t show favoritism. Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,” have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?” James 2:1-4
To quote a friend of mine “God don’t show favouritism nor should we.” My pastor when doing a sermon about the widows mite(Luke 21:1-4) once noted something about some television evangelist.
At the time there were a couple offering a nice plaque for contributions over a thousand or a hundred dollar donations. While people donating less got nothing. He noted that those who donated less than a hundred or a thousand dollars more than likely donated a larger percentage of their income to the ministry. He also noted that perhaps without realizing it they were showing favouritism.
It is important within our church that we not show favouritism of any kind.
“Listen, my dear brothers: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him? But you have insulted the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court? Are they not the ones who are slandering the noble name of him to whom you belong? James 2:5-7
According to James it is those who are poor in the eyes of the wold to be rich in faith and inherit the kingdom of God.
For a poor person quite often their faith is all they have.
I think of believers in the third world. Many are so poor they have to rely on God for their next meal.
The same is true about some believers here in the west although we don’t really see it. It’s only when we look at the proliferation of food banks that we notice.
James notes that the rich exploit people. Drag the poor into court and even slander the name of Christ.
This is not to say all rich people are alike there are many wealthy people who spend vast portions of their wealth to help the poor and impoverished in this world.
However sadly there are those who do exploit the poor. Around the world we see sweat shops using child labour and low wages to better their bottom line.
It’s notable here in the west many companies that are doing well move their production facilities from areas where wages and benefits are good to areas where wages and benefits are less. All this in the name of profit.
Sadly some Christians invest in such companies, not taking an interest in what they are doing, only happy with the return on their money. Sadly also some of the executives of these companies who make the decisions do attend church claiming to be believers which they may very well be.
This portion of scripture is written to them as warning. James make it clear saying,
“If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing right. But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers. For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it. For he who said, “Do not commit adultery,” also said, “Do not murder.” If you do not commit adultery but do commit murder, you have become a lawbreaker.”
James 2: 8-11
Wednesday, 14 December 2011
Don't just listen Act!
“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does.”
James 1:22-25
Practice what you preach. We can’t be simply listen to the word of God we in order to be effective witnesses for Christ need to be doer’s of the law every day of our lives. By doing this we are doing what we were created for, to serve God.
The individual in putting the word which he has heard into practice will also receive a blessing from God, or as James puts it, “he will be blessed in what he does”.
Remove the Moral Filth
Remove the Moral Filth
“My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man’s anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.” James 1: 19-21
Quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. James is simply saying practice self control. Lashing out in anger does not bring about a righteous life. It more often than not causes us push people away from us.
James urges us to get rid of the “moral filth and evil” in our life. All of us wether we like to admit it or not have some kind of “filth” in our life that we need to be rid of.
It is essential that we do this and accept the word of God that has been given to us, for it is only the word of God that can save us.
“My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man’s anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.” James 1: 19-21
Quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. James is simply saying practice self control. Lashing out in anger does not bring about a righteous life. It more often than not causes us push people away from us.
James urges us to get rid of the “moral filth and evil” in our life. All of us wether we like to admit it or not have some kind of “filth” in our life that we need to be rid of.
It is essential that we do this and accept the word of God that has been given to us, for it is only the word of God that can save us.
Monday, 5 December 2011
Every Good Gift
“Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of first fruits of all he created.”
James 1:16-18
James makes it clear that we are not to be deceived. That “all good and perfect gift is from above coming from the Father of heavenly lights.”
Something we need to be thankful for everyday of our lives.
God the creator of the heavens gives good gifts to his children. God does not change like man or the world or the stars and the universe that he created. God is the same yesterday today and forever.
God chose to give us the rebirth through the death and resurrection of His Son Jesus Christ.
James here is stating emphatically to those early Christians they are the first of many that will follow.
Many things would come against Christianity, the Jewish religious leadership of the day, even the might of the Roman empire and it seems the might of many dictators and others throughout the centuries. Nevertheless it survived.
Those who have come against Christianity should have heeded the advice given by Gamaliel a Pharisee that had given wise advice to the Sanhedrin when Peter and the other Apostles had been brought before them in Acts chapter five, when it records in verses thirty-seven, thirty-eight,
“Therefore in the present case I advise you; Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.”
James 1:16-18
James makes it clear that we are not to be deceived. That “all good and perfect gift is from above coming from the Father of heavenly lights.”
Something we need to be thankful for everyday of our lives.
God the creator of the heavens gives good gifts to his children. God does not change like man or the world or the stars and the universe that he created. God is the same yesterday today and forever.
God chose to give us the rebirth through the death and resurrection of His Son Jesus Christ.
James here is stating emphatically to those early Christians they are the first of many that will follow.
Many things would come against Christianity, the Jewish religious leadership of the day, even the might of the Roman empire and it seems the might of many dictators and others throughout the centuries. Nevertheless it survived.
Those who have come against Christianity should have heeded the advice given by Gamaliel a Pharisee that had given wise advice to the Sanhedrin when Peter and the other Apostles had been brought before them in Acts chapter five, when it records in verses thirty-seven, thirty-eight,
“Therefore in the present case I advise you; Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.”
Temptation
Temptation
“When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.” James 1:13-15
Temptation does not come from God, because God by his very nature is Holy and therefore cannot be turned away by temptation.
Man however can be tempted by his own evil desire. We as humans have an innate tendency to sin. Let’s face it sin can feel good. Still we all don’t just sin. We first have desires that are wrong. Those desires cause us to sin, which lead to spiritual death. Eternal separation from God.
We need to be on the look out for wrong desires that lead us to sin and as soon as we see them we need to be asking God to save us from the temptation we are being pulled into and forgive us for any wrong we may have done.
“When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.” James 1:13-15
Temptation does not come from God, because God by his very nature is Holy and therefore cannot be turned away by temptation.
Man however can be tempted by his own evil desire. We as humans have an innate tendency to sin. Let’s face it sin can feel good. Still we all don’t just sin. We first have desires that are wrong. Those desires cause us to sin, which lead to spiritual death. Eternal separation from God.
We need to be on the look out for wrong desires that lead us to sin and as soon as we see them we need to be asking God to save us from the temptation we are being pulled into and forgive us for any wrong we may have done.
Wednesday, 30 November 2011
A Reward
“Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.”
James 1:12
Scriptures constantly say we are blessed when we persevere under trial. God understood we would be constantly under some kind of persecution. That’s why He inspired the Gospel writers to talk about it so much. It was to prepare us for what was about to happen to us.
All people coming to know Jesus as Lord and Saviour need to know that Christianity is not a cake walk. Someone told me it’s more like a bed of roses very beautiful roses but full of thorns that test our faith from time to time.
The result of persevering for our faith however is that we will one day receive a crown of life. Eternal life offered freely to those who love the Lord Jesus Christ
James 1:12
Scriptures constantly say we are blessed when we persevere under trial. God understood we would be constantly under some kind of persecution. That’s why He inspired the Gospel writers to talk about it so much. It was to prepare us for what was about to happen to us.
All people coming to know Jesus as Lord and Saviour need to know that Christianity is not a cake walk. Someone told me it’s more like a bed of roses very beautiful roses but full of thorns that test our faith from time to time.
The result of persevering for our faith however is that we will one day receive a crown of life. Eternal life offered freely to those who love the Lord Jesus Christ
Monday, 21 November 2011
Of Riches
“The brother in humble circumstances ought to take pride in his high position. But the one who is rich should take pride in his low position, because he will pass away like a wild flower. For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich man will fade away even while he goes about his business.”
James 1:9-11
A quick note, there is nothing wrong with being financially rich. It is how you use that wealth that is important. Wealthy people of faith from the time of the apostles have helped the church grow and expand throughout the world. Such men have put their trust in God not in their riches.
Jesus said,
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:19-21
A man of humble means tends to have to rely on God for his daily needs. A man of wealth can easily be pulled away by his wealth from God. Relying on his wealth to get him through any situation. Failing to give the glory to God.
Abram set an example for us regarding wealth while with the king of Sodom. They had just defeated Kedorlaomer and the king of Sodom offered Abram the spoils of the battle.
Abram refused to take them so that no one except God could be said to have made Abram rich.
Riches are fleeting as James puts it, “But the one who is rich should take pride in his low position, because he will pass away like a wild flower. For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich man will fade away even while he goes about his business.”
James 1:9-11
A quick note, there is nothing wrong with being financially rich. It is how you use that wealth that is important. Wealthy people of faith from the time of the apostles have helped the church grow and expand throughout the world. Such men have put their trust in God not in their riches.
Jesus said,
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:19-21
A man of humble means tends to have to rely on God for his daily needs. A man of wealth can easily be pulled away by his wealth from God. Relying on his wealth to get him through any situation. Failing to give the glory to God.
Abram set an example for us regarding wealth while with the king of Sodom. They had just defeated Kedorlaomer and the king of Sodom offered Abram the spoils of the battle.
Abram refused to take them so that no one except God could be said to have made Abram rich.
Riches are fleeting as James puts it, “But the one who is rich should take pride in his low position, because he will pass away like a wild flower. For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich man will fade away even while he goes about his business.”
Thursday, 10 November 2011
Wisdom
Wisdom
“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.”
James 1:5-8
Webster’s dictionary defines Wisdom as 1. Accumulated Philosophic or scientific learning: Knowledge b. ability to discern inner qualities and relationships : insight C; good sense. The teachings of ancient wise men.
Someone once said to me wisdom is using the knowledge you have to the best of your ability.
Christians need wisdom. No matter where we are in the world we are in a minority.
We are sojourners foreigners in this world. Our homeland is heaven. We are here on this earth to tell the world of our homeland and of the saving grace our Lord and Saviour offers to all mankind.
In order to do that task to the best of our ability we need to ask God for all the wisdom we can handle. We need to ask and not doubt.
Doubt is the enemy of faith. That is why we must put all doubt aside and walk by faith ever trusting in God.
Someone has said of Christians, that we stand on he shoulders of giants. Those giants being the writers of the Bible.
We need to study what the writers of the Bible wrote. It is the accumulated knowledge and wisdom of our faith.
By studying and applying the truths of the scriptures to our life we open a door to reach the lost of this world a door through which they may enter heaven.
“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.”
James 1:5-8
Webster’s dictionary defines Wisdom as 1. Accumulated Philosophic or scientific learning: Knowledge b. ability to discern inner qualities and relationships : insight C; good sense. The teachings of ancient wise men.
Someone once said to me wisdom is using the knowledge you have to the best of your ability.
Christians need wisdom. No matter where we are in the world we are in a minority.
We are sojourners foreigners in this world. Our homeland is heaven. We are here on this earth to tell the world of our homeland and of the saving grace our Lord and Saviour offers to all mankind.
In order to do that task to the best of our ability we need to ask God for all the wisdom we can handle. We need to ask and not doubt.
Doubt is the enemy of faith. That is why we must put all doubt aside and walk by faith ever trusting in God.
Someone has said of Christians, that we stand on he shoulders of giants. Those giants being the writers of the Bible.
We need to study what the writers of the Bible wrote. It is the accumulated knowledge and wisdom of our faith.
By studying and applying the truths of the scriptures to our life we open a door to reach the lost of this world a door through which they may enter heaven.
Thursday, 6 October 2011
Lessons from the Book of James part 1
Lessons from the Book of James
Part 1
The writer James is universally said to be the brother of Jesus mentioned in Matthew 13:55.
At first, not a believer, he went on to become a prominent one in the early church, becoming a leader in the council of Jerusalem.
He was one of the people Christ appeared to after His resurrection.
James was martyred in AD 62, and his letter was written to Jewish Christians, but is in every way a guide book for all Christians to live by.
Tests
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you maybe mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
James 1:2-4
No one likes trials and persecution but, my pastor has a phrase, “you need a test before you have a testimony.” he’s right. I have never met a mature Christian that has not had a test in their life. Most older Christians have had to work through many, over the years.
We must, however, remember that if we are going to go through a test, that we are going through it, for the right reason.
It’s wrong to sit back with a judgmental attitude screaming about the ills of the world. Then, when the world starts jumping all over you and rejecting what you say to call it persecution. It’s not. Jesus in Matthew 7:1 told us not to judge, and as long as we don’t judge we will be more readily accepted by the world.
Jesus said, “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.”
Matthew 10:16
What Jesus here is saying as I see it is be careful and on the alert but don’t be aggressive. Present the gospel in a nonthreatening way, leaving it up to the Holy Spirit to convict the individual.
If you are then persecuted for what you have said and believe, that is true persecution. Then, as James puts it “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
Even if you don’t like what you’re going thought.
Sunday, 19 June 2011
Back to Basics, Faith
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Ephesians 2:8,9
Faith the corner stone of the church. The call to salvation is a call to step out in faith believing. As Hebrews one puts it,
“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see This is what the ancients were commended for.”Hebrews 11:1,2.
We who are Christians are called to present a simple message to the world. That of salvation through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
It is not the place of the church to dictate secular governmental policy. It is not the place of the church to dictate morality to none-Christians.
The Church is there to present a the way to salvation to anyone who will listen.
The message of the Church is simple. The apostle Paul puts it this way,
“...“Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” Acts 16:31
Jesus himself makes a bold statement that no other religious leader in history has ever made when he said, ... “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6.
As Christians we cannot afford to get involved in secular politics or morality debates. We must live life in a way that would attract others to us. A life that would make it possible to present the gospel to others in a way that would at the very least make them think about their place in eternity.
Jesus said, “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.” Matthew 10:16.
Translation, be aware of your surroundings and who you are dealing with, while at the same time being non-threatening.
We have a message that is of the utmost importance to every man, woman, boy, and girl on the face of the earth. We cannot afford to turn people away by our words and deeds.
We as Christians have a spot light shining on us and it is up to us to show people the way to heaven. The rest is up to them.
Ephesians 2:8,9
Faith the corner stone of the church. The call to salvation is a call to step out in faith believing. As Hebrews one puts it,
“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see This is what the ancients were commended for.”Hebrews 11:1,2.
We who are Christians are called to present a simple message to the world. That of salvation through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
It is not the place of the church to dictate secular governmental policy. It is not the place of the church to dictate morality to none-Christians.
The Church is there to present a the way to salvation to anyone who will listen.
The message of the Church is simple. The apostle Paul puts it this way,
“...“Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” Acts 16:31
Jesus himself makes a bold statement that no other religious leader in history has ever made when he said, ... “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6.
As Christians we cannot afford to get involved in secular politics or morality debates. We must live life in a way that would attract others to us. A life that would make it possible to present the gospel to others in a way that would at the very least make them think about their place in eternity.
Jesus said, “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.” Matthew 10:16.
Translation, be aware of your surroundings and who you are dealing with, while at the same time being non-threatening.
We have a message that is of the utmost importance to every man, woman, boy, and girl on the face of the earth. We cannot afford to turn people away by our words and deeds.
We as Christians have a spot light shining on us and it is up to us to show people the way to heaven. The rest is up to them.
Sunday, 12 June 2011
Of Christians and Saltiness
Read Matthew 5
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. Matthew 5:13.
“Danger! Danger!” the robot from lost in space.
Sometimes I think that’s what people hear and see when they look at Christians, little robots crying out danger.
Sadly from my vantage point here in Canada the danger North Americans hear about come from those claiming to be Christians, who scream about the evils of our society and government.
Those cries sadly are becoming so loud that the real message of the gospel is becoming lost in the cacophony sounding brass and clanging cymbals.
To many well meaning Christian leaders are out there in the world playing the world’s game, pointing out the evils, the sins, in the world.
The world knows it has a lot of problems. That it’s far from perfect. No one has to do much digging to discover the world and many people from every strata of society are corrupt.
There are thousands if not millions of groups world wide protesting the ills of society.
I believe too many in the world, don’t see the positive message of the Gospel, for a hundred different reasons. Principally however it’s because too many Christians are preaching hell fire and brimstone.
Jesus left a warning for such people, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. Matthew 5:13.
How can we save souls if our message is seen as so negative.
Christians have a message that is of prime importance to everyone who walks the face of the earth. It is a positive message.
If we look at scripture we never see Jesus or the apostles getting involved in protests or secular politics. They stuck to the message given to them by Christ even to the point of death.
The same holds true around the world today. I’m sure the church in China or in some hard line Arab countries have no time to play politics. They must stick to the message and believe the message of Christ.
I think sadly in North America, (and that’s all I can speak of as this is where I live,) many prominent Christian leaders have fell into the “freedom trap”.
They have freedoms that the world envies and they use it. Sadly not always in the best way.
The Christian message is simple. It is one of love and forgiveness direct from God. Pointing mankind to God. Simply put it goes like this,
“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Matthew 28:18-20.
Evangelizing is the prime directive of the church. It is to go into all the world and tell a fallen world the way to heaven.
Jesus made it clear, “ John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh to the Father, but by Me.”
John 3:16,17 states, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.”
Hebrews 11:6 makes it clear, God is asking people to make a leap of faith, “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”
Hebrews 11:1 defines faith. “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”
Ephesians 2:8,9 makes it clear salvation is a free gift from God, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Put simply the Bible recognizes what I think most people already instinctively know. That when compared to a holy perfect God we fall far short of what He would have for our lives.
Romans 3:10 As it is written; there is none righteous; no, not one.
Romans 3:23 For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
The Bible clearly states God is patiently knocking on our hearts door waiting for us to let him into our lives
Revelation 3:20 states. "Behold I stand at the door and knock: If any man hear my voice and open the door, I will sup with him, and he with Me."
God simply asks in Romans 10:9,10, “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness, and with the mouth, confession is made unto salvation.”
Romans 10:13 "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."
This is the message we as Christians are charged with taking to the world. A message that can change the world one person at a time.
Think about it.
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. Matthew 5:13.
“Danger! Danger!” the robot from lost in space.
Sometimes I think that’s what people hear and see when they look at Christians, little robots crying out danger.
Sadly from my vantage point here in Canada the danger North Americans hear about come from those claiming to be Christians, who scream about the evils of our society and government.
Those cries sadly are becoming so loud that the real message of the gospel is becoming lost in the cacophony sounding brass and clanging cymbals.
To many well meaning Christian leaders are out there in the world playing the world’s game, pointing out the evils, the sins, in the world.
The world knows it has a lot of problems. That it’s far from perfect. No one has to do much digging to discover the world and many people from every strata of society are corrupt.
There are thousands if not millions of groups world wide protesting the ills of society.
I believe too many in the world, don’t see the positive message of the Gospel, for a hundred different reasons. Principally however it’s because too many Christians are preaching hell fire and brimstone.
Jesus left a warning for such people, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. Matthew 5:13.
How can we save souls if our message is seen as so negative.
Christians have a message that is of prime importance to everyone who walks the face of the earth. It is a positive message.
If we look at scripture we never see Jesus or the apostles getting involved in protests or secular politics. They stuck to the message given to them by Christ even to the point of death.
The same holds true around the world today. I’m sure the church in China or in some hard line Arab countries have no time to play politics. They must stick to the message and believe the message of Christ.
I think sadly in North America, (and that’s all I can speak of as this is where I live,) many prominent Christian leaders have fell into the “freedom trap”.
They have freedoms that the world envies and they use it. Sadly not always in the best way.
The Christian message is simple. It is one of love and forgiveness direct from God. Pointing mankind to God. Simply put it goes like this,
“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Matthew 28:18-20.
Evangelizing is the prime directive of the church. It is to go into all the world and tell a fallen world the way to heaven.
Jesus made it clear, “ John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh to the Father, but by Me.”
John 3:16,17 states, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.”
Hebrews 11:6 makes it clear, God is asking people to make a leap of faith, “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”
Hebrews 11:1 defines faith. “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”
Ephesians 2:8,9 makes it clear salvation is a free gift from God, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Put simply the Bible recognizes what I think most people already instinctively know. That when compared to a holy perfect God we fall far short of what He would have for our lives.
Romans 3:10 As it is written; there is none righteous; no, not one.
Romans 3:23 For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
The Bible clearly states God is patiently knocking on our hearts door waiting for us to let him into our lives
Revelation 3:20 states. "Behold I stand at the door and knock: If any man hear my voice and open the door, I will sup with him, and he with Me."
God simply asks in Romans 10:9,10, “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness, and with the mouth, confession is made unto salvation.”
Romans 10:13 "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."
This is the message we as Christians are charged with taking to the world. A message that can change the world one person at a time.
Think about it.
Wednesday, 8 June 2011
A thought from Francis of Assisi
“Most high, glorious God,
enlighten the darkness of my heart; give me, Lord, a correct faith, a certain hope, a perfect charity, sense and knowledge, so that I may carry out Your holy and true command.”
Francis of Assisi
Each of us wether we know it or not has a purpose in life. I think it can be safely said that the vast majority of people in the world have no idea of their purpose.
I think that statement is particularly true about Christians. Statistics show that a small minority of people within the church do all the work.
Over and over throughout the years I’ve heard pastors evangelist and others say we need to be doers of the word not just hearers of the word. Yet many Christians don’t seem to get it.
One pastor I had said we need to get on our knees and ask God what he wants us to do for Him, listen for his reply, then get up and do it.
This prayer of St. Francis exemplifies what we as individual Christians need to ask God.
“enlighten the darkness of my heart...”
We each need God to forgive our sin to shine His light on the darkest corners of our heart. That we may draw closer to Him.
“Give me, Lord a correct faith,...”
Each of us needs to study the word of God to know what is right teaching.
Paul writing to Timothy writes,
“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15
“ a certain hope, a perfect charity, sense and knowledge,...”
As Christians we need to know beyond doubt that we have a “certain hope” a hope that is in Christ Jesus.
The writer of Hebrews stating
“let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water.
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds”
Hebrews 10:22-24
Think about it.
enlighten the darkness of my heart; give me, Lord, a correct faith, a certain hope, a perfect charity, sense and knowledge, so that I may carry out Your holy and true command.”
Francis of Assisi
Each of us wether we know it or not has a purpose in life. I think it can be safely said that the vast majority of people in the world have no idea of their purpose.
I think that statement is particularly true about Christians. Statistics show that a small minority of people within the church do all the work.
Over and over throughout the years I’ve heard pastors evangelist and others say we need to be doers of the word not just hearers of the word. Yet many Christians don’t seem to get it.
One pastor I had said we need to get on our knees and ask God what he wants us to do for Him, listen for his reply, then get up and do it.
This prayer of St. Francis exemplifies what we as individual Christians need to ask God.
“enlighten the darkness of my heart...”
We each need God to forgive our sin to shine His light on the darkest corners of our heart. That we may draw closer to Him.
“Give me, Lord a correct faith,...”
Each of us needs to study the word of God to know what is right teaching.
Paul writing to Timothy writes,
“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15
“ a certain hope, a perfect charity, sense and knowledge,...”
As Christians we need to know beyond doubt that we have a “certain hope” a hope that is in Christ Jesus.
The writer of Hebrews stating
“let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water.
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds”
Hebrews 10:22-24
Think about it.
Quintessence
Quintessence is to quote Webster dictionary: "the essence of a thing in its purest and most concentrated form."
To my mind love is the quintessence of Christianity.Jesus said:"
“But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you"Matthew 5:44
In Matthew 22:37-40 Jesus said:
"Jesus said to him, ‘you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment and the second is like it you shall love your neighbour as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.’"
The Apostle Paul, when writing to the Corinthians gave what to my mind is the best definition of love ever written.
"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails...now abides faith hope and love but the greatest of these is love." 1Corinthians 13:4-8b,13
The verses quoted above say it all. God set an example, He loved the world so much he sent His one and only Son to die for us.The Bible make it clear that Jesus did not come into the world to condemn the world.
John 3:17 states:"For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him."
God loved the world so much He sent Christ to us. He has no desire to see anyone perish. That’s why He sent His son.
That’s why Jesus told us to love our enemies.If we truly love God we will show that love in all we do, to all we know.
The apostle Paul wrote this in Romans 12:9-21
"Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good.Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honour giving preference to one another; not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the LORD, rejoicing in hope,patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer, distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality. Bless those who persecute you, bless and do not curse.Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble.Do not be wise in your own opinion. Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give no place to wrath, for it is written:"Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the LORD. Therefore"If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."
This is what it is to act like a Christian.We have no record of Jesus ever speaking out against the secular, civil Roman authority.He, a Jew, spoke against the wrongs being preached in the name of God by the religious leaders of his day.When He spoke He spoke to correct those who would pervert the Word of God. Those who would put up roadblocks to people coming into a personal relationship with God.Jesus exhibited love. He even prayed and asked forgiveness for those who crucified him.If we are truly Christian, we need to do this also.
Our love should not be conditional on who a person is. It should not be conditional on the lifestyle of a person, or upon them changing their lifestyle. That is between them and God.
Jesus warns us "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." Matthew 7:1,2.
Christians have no right to judge. It is counter productive to the cause of Christ.We cannot win souls if we even give the slightest hint of a judgmental attitude. Jesus said,
"I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves." Matthew 10:16
To be shrewd as snakes and innocent as doves, is to know the world around you and it’s perils. To be cautious, but at the same time present yourself as harmless.A dove is none aggressive. The symbol of peace.
The message the Christian brings is not that of war but rather the message of salvation from the prince of Peace. A gift of salvation and a peace that passes all understanding to every man woman and child in the world.
It is the duty of every Christian to "..."Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation." Mark 16:15.
To take the message of the prince of peace to the world.That all who would believe may know the true meaning of Paul's words when he wrote,
"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:4
This is the Quintessence of being Christian.
Think about it.
To my mind love is the quintessence of Christianity.Jesus said:"
“But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you"Matthew 5:44
In Matthew 22:37-40 Jesus said:
"Jesus said to him, ‘you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment and the second is like it you shall love your neighbour as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.’"
The Apostle Paul, when writing to the Corinthians gave what to my mind is the best definition of love ever written.
"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails...now abides faith hope and love but the greatest of these is love." 1Corinthians 13:4-8b,13
The verses quoted above say it all. God set an example, He loved the world so much he sent His one and only Son to die for us.The Bible make it clear that Jesus did not come into the world to condemn the world.
John 3:17 states:"For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him."
God loved the world so much He sent Christ to us. He has no desire to see anyone perish. That’s why He sent His son.
That’s why Jesus told us to love our enemies.If we truly love God we will show that love in all we do, to all we know.
The apostle Paul wrote this in Romans 12:9-21
"Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good.Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honour giving preference to one another; not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the LORD, rejoicing in hope,patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer, distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality. Bless those who persecute you, bless and do not curse.Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble.Do not be wise in your own opinion. Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give no place to wrath, for it is written:"Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the LORD. Therefore"If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."
This is what it is to act like a Christian.We have no record of Jesus ever speaking out against the secular, civil Roman authority.He, a Jew, spoke against the wrongs being preached in the name of God by the religious leaders of his day.When He spoke He spoke to correct those who would pervert the Word of God. Those who would put up roadblocks to people coming into a personal relationship with God.Jesus exhibited love. He even prayed and asked forgiveness for those who crucified him.If we are truly Christian, we need to do this also.
Our love should not be conditional on who a person is. It should not be conditional on the lifestyle of a person, or upon them changing their lifestyle. That is between them and God.
Jesus warns us "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." Matthew 7:1,2.
Christians have no right to judge. It is counter productive to the cause of Christ.We cannot win souls if we even give the slightest hint of a judgmental attitude. Jesus said,
"I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves." Matthew 10:16
To be shrewd as snakes and innocent as doves, is to know the world around you and it’s perils. To be cautious, but at the same time present yourself as harmless.A dove is none aggressive. The symbol of peace.
The message the Christian brings is not that of war but rather the message of salvation from the prince of Peace. A gift of salvation and a peace that passes all understanding to every man woman and child in the world.
It is the duty of every Christian to "..."Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation." Mark 16:15.
To take the message of the prince of peace to the world.That all who would believe may know the true meaning of Paul's words when he wrote,
"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:4
This is the Quintessence of being Christian.
Think about it.
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