Truth Matters

The Earth Groaned

2010-01-28T20:54:00.000-06:00

“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” ESV Matthew 6:21

The cataclysmic movement occurred over eight miles beneath the surface and sixteen miles outside the capital city, but it was a deep, guttural groan that struck fear in the hearts of all on the surface as it reeked havoc in Haiti. In less than one minute on January 12, 2010 the face of a nation changed forever; hundreds of thousands of souls passed into eternity and all earthly treasures lay in ruins.

My friend Luis lives 125 miles away from the epicenter in Santiago, Dominican Republic. The first word I received from him said simply, “The earth shook very hard here today.” I learned later that even that far away the earth shook so hard that people poured into the streets in fear. When I spoke to him two days later, as the devastation became more evident, his church (Iglesia Baustista de la Gracia) was already mobilizing a relief effort; $6,000 had been pledged, 25,000 bottles of water had been ordered and they had agreed to pay the travel expenses for 35 local doctors to travel to Haiti for a week. Before the weekend was over, they would need an additional $20,000 for initial food and supplies for a clinic.

Buying the supplies was easy but getting them to Haiti would prove both difficult and dangerous. How would they avoid being robbed and looted on the way? By the grace of God! The Dominican Republic military volunteered to escort them to the border where the United Nations provided an escort on to Port-au-Prince and all arrived safely.

Now, almost two weeks later as hope for rescuing survivors wanes, the need continues. In a very short time, international news coverage will dissipate as public interest drifts to another calamity or everyday problems at home—but the need will continue. And I’m confident that when public interest and fascination wanes even more, Luis’s church will still be laboring and ministering however God enables them in this ravaged region.

When asked in a US radio interview how he was holding up to the stress of coordinating relief Luis replied: “Well, I’m actually very excited and very joyful that I’m a part of this [relief effort]. I think that very few things can give a man more joy than to serve and to serve God and to serve other people. It’s great not to be thinking about your needs but other people’s needs and I think it’s actually good for my soul and my heart. So, I feel very good.”

“….where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

If you’d like to help with the relief effort but don’t know how, I’d invite you to contact Tharptown Baptist Church (256-332-0063) or visit online at www.tharptown.com for more information.

Who is my neighbor? Haitians?

2010-01-20T07:43:00.001-06:00

But he, desiring to justify himself, said to Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" ^ESVLuke 10:29

Haiti is in ruins and the death toll could rise into the hundreds of thousands before order is restored for the living. International aid is flowing towards the country though, so it would be easy to look the other way. With a history of corrupt government and squandered resources, it would be easy to turn a deaf ear to their cries for help. We’ve become so calloused in recent years that it’s really pretty easy to close our eyes and pretend that the suffering and death is not mounting. But those folks are our neighbors; or are they? What is the biblical definition of a neighbor?

One time a lawyer stood up to test Jesus in a public forum by asking the question: “What shall I do to inherit eternal life?” Surprisingly, the lawyer and Jesus agree on the answer. “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.” (Luke 10:27) But the answer raises another question that I suspect is a nagging one for the lawyer: “…who is my neighbor?” For the lawyer, it was the question of the day. Perhaps he thought his neighbors were other lawyers; the Pharisees perhaps; other religious leaders maybe. Though we don’t have time to expound on it here, it is highly unlikely that the lawyer would consider a Samaritan as his neighbor.

But at this point, Jesus tells the parable of the Good Samaritan. You know the story well. Three different people come upon a man who had fallen victim to foul play and left half dead on the roadway. The first two (both religious leaders) passed him by for reasons untold. The third was a Samaritan and a most unlikely candidate to lend assistance. But we know from Scripture that he did. He had compassion on the victim and went out of his way to lend a hand.

At the end of the parable, Jesus asks the lawyer a question: “Which of these three, do you think, proved [emphasis mine] to be a neighbor?” They agree that it is the person who showed mercy and Jesus commands the lawyer to go and do likewise.

Did you notice how Jesus phrased the question? The designation of neighbor doesn’t hinge on whether someone is physically located near me. Nor does it seem to matter what someone’s social status is. Ethnic background is thrown out the window as well. Jesus puts the emphasis on you, me and our actions. To whom can we prove to be a neighbor?

Today, Christians have an opportunity to prove themselves as neighbors by reaching out to Haitians during the aftermath of this earthquake. Will you be a neighbor?

If you’re looking for a way to be a neighbor to the suffering Haitians, feel free to drop me an email and I’ll direct you to some ways I’m aware of.

Resist the Devil

2010-01-15T07:28:00.000-06:00

“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” ^ESVJames 4:7

Through a friend, a prisoner emailed me some time back to make this point: Demons are real and spiritual battles rage continuously. He made his point in a very vivid way and it has set me to thinking about how to resist the devil and his demonic army.

Often times when reading about war and military actions the word resistance comes up. And it usually carries the implication of conflict or the meeting of opposing forces. I looked the word resistance up online and found this definition: “the act of opposing.” Similarly, a quick search on the word resist yielded: “to oppose actively.” These definitions make an important point; to resist, or the act of resistance is not passive. Resistance is active.

So, to resist is to actively oppose or engage. Likewise, in the case of our verse today, to resist the devil would mean to actively engage and oppose him. Rather than being passive against evil and the power of the devil, James is telling us to actively oppose him and the result will be that “he will flee from you.”

I have a passing interest in Civil War history because troops from the North and the South spent a lot of time, and often fought, right here in our backyard. One day while I was reading from Shelby Foote’s Civil War about some troops stationed in Tuscumbia, I came across a rather brash quote from a young General that is meaningful to our discussion of active opposition. In a message to Jefferson Davis, John Bell Hood wrote this: “You may rely upon my striking the enemy whenever a suitable opportunity presents itself, and that I will spare no effort to make that opportunity.”

Now think about the parallels for a moment. Hood was engaged in a physical battle. Christians are engaged in a spiritual battle. Hood vowed to strike (actively oppose) his enemy. Christians are commanded to resist (actively oppose) our enemy; the devil. Hood vowed to strike whenever he could. Does James indicate that Christian resistance is part-time? Finally, note that General Hood vowed to “spare no effort to make that opportunity.” May I suggest that we are to do the same? Spare no opportunity to resist the devil.

Followers of Christ can anticipate, even expect the devil to be lurking around every corner. The bible says he is like a “roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” (1Peter 5:8) Why then should we spare any effort to expose him? Why should we spare any effort to reveal the devil who is camouflaged, hidden in the shadows, ready to pounce at the first sign of weakness? The answer is obviously that we shouldn’t. We must spare no effort to fight and resist the devil. And what is our chief weapon? The sword of truth; God’s word—keep it at your side and in your heart.

Take Courage

2010-01-07T06:23:00.000-06:00

"Joseph of Arimathea, a respected member of the Council, who was also himself looking for the kingdom of God, took courage and went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus."^ESVMark 15:43

The prisoners were all dead. The Roman guard made sure of that by either breaking bones or spearing them in the side. The centurion in charge witnessed the death of Jesus himself. The Romans were very good at executions. The next step, though perhaps not immediately, would have been to take the bodies down from the place of crucifixion and throw them in a garbage heap just outside the city. That’s what it was like to die with the wicked during the time of Jesus.

Hundreds of years earlier the prophet Isaiah had predicted that Jesus would die in the same manner as wicked men but he also tells us that Jesus would be entombed like a rich man (see Isaiah 53:9). How would God bring this improbable scenario about? All but one disciple deserted Jesus when he was taken into custody, public sentiment was at an all time low, and the gospel accounts mention only a few loyal disciples watching the crucifixion from a distance; enter Joseph of Arimathea.

Joseph of Arimathea was a respected member of the Council; perhaps one of the same governing councils that had convicted Jesus the night before. Joseph was different though. Joseph was looking and waiting for the kingdom of God and based on his actions, it’s not difficult to conclude that he saw that kingdom in the person of Jesus.

The move was bold and courageous; even daring. It took courage to go against public sentiment. It took courage to go against his friends and peers on the Council. It took courage to meddle in the affairs of a Roman crucifixion. It took money, time and effort, but Joseph did and expended all these things and then stood alone before Pilate and asked the question: May I have the body of Jesus? Yes, it took courage, but Joseph could not bear to see Jesus the body of Jesus discarded in a trash heap. It took courage to be a disciple even in death but it was a courage born of love for Jesus.

The rest of the story is familiar. Joseph took the body, prepared it with Nicodemus’ help, and buried Jesus in a freshly hewn tomb that was secured with a heavy stone. The Council, with Pilate’s permission, even placed a guard out front. But the tomb, not even death itself, could hold Jesus and three days later he rose from the dead and left the tomb. Joseph’s faith and love was well founded!

Take courage this day. Live as a disciple of Jesus. At times it will mean standing against society. At times it will mean standing against friends. At times it will even mean standing against family. But take courage and stand this day for the risen Lord Jesus.

Genuine or Imitation Faith?

2010-01-02T13:51:00.001-06:00

“…King Rehoboam made in their place shields of bronze, and committed them to the hands of the officers of the guard, who kept the door of the king's house.²⁸ And as often as the king went into the house of the LORD, the guard carried them and brought them back to the guardroom.” ^ESV1 Kings 14:27-28

(This article, adapted from one originally published in 2006, was inspired in part by a book titled Shields of Brass or Shields of Gold by O.S. Hawkins.)

When Solomon was King of Israel, he commissioned 200 large shields and 300 smaller shields that were made of solid gold. To put that into perspective, we are talking about over 2,000 pounds of gold! Oh what they must have looked like lining the palace walls. I imagine them in an outdoor procession with the sunlight reflecting off of a hammered gold finish. Can you imagine the splendor of it all? The shields were stored inside the palace and when Solomon ventured out, the shields were sent out before him; a symbol of his status, wealth and the financial health of the kingdom.

Unfortunately, Solomon’s legacy did not extend far into the reign his son Rehoboam. Rehoboam lost the shields, and most other kingdom treasures, to an invading king from Egypt just five years into his reign. But Rehoboam replaced the shields with shields of bronze. Oh, they looked like gold. And when painstakingly polished, bronze shines like gold and like Solomon, Rehoboam sent the shields out ahead of him in a public display every time he went to the Lord’s house. But though they glittered, Rehoboam’s shields were nothing more than a cheap imitation of the real thing; a deceptive false front.

As I reflect on this Old Testament story, it brings to mind many questions in about professing Christians today and the state of the Christian church in America.

But let us make it personal. How genuine are you in your commitment to God? If you attend church, do you attend because it is the socially acceptable thing to do or do you attend so that you can come together with other believers and worship God? When you dress up and go to the Lord’s house, is your worship genuine?

A New Year is upon us; the old has passed away. As you make resolutions for 2010, examine yourself honestly before God. Ask yourself this question: Has my commitment to God been the real deal this past year or has it been a cheap imitation of the real thing? Your walk with God and the Christian church in America will benefit from your genuine faith and worship.

Resolve to have and show genuine faith in God in 2010 and let your worship flow from a heart that genuinely desires His glory. Happy New Year!

Angels Worhsip Him

2009-12-23T07:52:00.001-06:00

“And again, when he brings the firstborn into the world, he says, “Let all God’s angels worship him.”” ESV Hebrews 1:6

Why worship Jesus? Why make so much of a birthday celebration? Why does the Christian community come together in unity for this event that actually stretches over several weeks? Well, the easy answer is that Jesus is known to Christians as the Savior of the world. But Jesus is really much more than a Savior. Jesus’ should be worshipped, not necessarily for what He’s done, but for who He is.

The writer of Hebrews spends the better part of five chapters making much of Jesus and describing how much more honor our heavenly Father has placed on Him than anyone or anything else. So, while there are countless reasons why we should worship Jesus, let’s look at just a few of the things mentioned in Hebrews.

We should worship Jesus because the Son of God and God the Father are equals. The bible never speaks of Jesus as being some kind of lesser god that came into being just to take on human form or to be the perfect sacrifice. No, on the contrary, the bible speaks of Jesus as God. Isaiah prophesied the same saying he would be called “Immanuel” (which means God with us). Hebrews tells us that Jesus is the “exact imprint his [the Father’s] nature.”

We should worship Jesus because God the Father spoke to humanity through Jesus. God has communicated to us in many ways throughout history. He spoke to Moses in a burning bush. He communicated to Balaam by enabling a donkey to speak. He spoke to us through the prophets who were given visions, dreams and inspiration. But, says Hebrews, “in these last days, He has spoken to us by His Son…”

We should worship Jesus because he was present at creation. Hebrews tells us that the world and everything in it was created through Jesus and that He upholds the universe today “by the word of His power.” The very next breath you take, the very existence of the universe, is dependent upon Jesus’ continued providence. Hebrews tells us that our heavenly Father has “left nothing outside His control.”

We should worship Jesus because one day creation as we know it will come to an end. Hebrews tells us that Jesus will “roll up” creation and it will be forever changed. The world as we know it will come to an end one day, but Jesus will never change. He will endure forever.

Finally, we should worship Jesus because He is our blessed hope for eternal life. Hebrews tells us that believers in Christ “share in Christ.” One day Christians will bask in the glorious presence of the triune God because their faith and hope was rightly placed in Jesus. One day we’ll stand with the angels and worship Him together.

Raging Seas

2009-12-16T07:51:00.000-06:00

“And they went and woke him, saying, "Master, Master, we are perishing!" And he awoke and rebuked the wind and the raging waves, and they ceased, and there was a calm.” ^ESVLuke 8:24

Ever had the “holiday blues?” Unfortunately, millions of people will be depressed or at least ‘blue’ this Christmas even though they are celebrating in one of the most blessed countries in the world. Some will be sad at the thought of celebrating without a loved one who has passed away. Some will be disappointed that their traditions have changed over time. Some will not be able deal with the financial pressures to give, give, give.

For those who are blue, a quick Internet search will yield you all kinds of advice on how to cope during dark, depressed seasons. Here’s some of the coping advice I found online: use humor; be realistic; stay healthy; reach out; delegate; spend time alone; let go. Some of these make practical sense but some of them absolutely left me scratching my head; especially the “spend time alone.” I’ve never known anyone feeling blue that benefited a great deal from aloneness.

Strangely absent in the advice I found quickly and easily was any dependence on God. That strikes me as odd at the very least and is somewhat indicative of how self absorbed our society really is. We are so confident in ourselves that we seldom take time to look to God. It’s as if God is like a fire extinguisher mounted on the wall that we should use only in dire emergencies. Why do you suppose that is? Why would we not call out to God as a first line of defense when dark clouds approach?

In the black of night the disciples once found themselves in great physical danger. A sudden storm had descended on the lake they were crossing and overtaken them. The winds and waves buffeted their boat and it was quickly filling with water; surely they would sink. No doubt gripped with fear, they woke Jesus shouting, “Master, Master, we are perishing!” But instead of perishing in a sinking boat, our text tells us that Jesus rebuked the wind and the waves and calm prevailed.

Now think about this. The same Jesus that calmed the seas that night with a simple verbal rebuke can calm your spirit today. The same Master who saved the disciples from physical danger that night can rescue your spirits from darkness today.

I was reading a Puritan sermon by John Flavel this past week and came across this quote that I think is fitting to share here. Speaking of Jesus, Flavel says: “He that saith to the raging sea, be still, and it obeys him; he can only pacify the disquieted spirit.”

If you find yourself feeling blue this Christmas season, call upon the Master that calms the raging seas.

Faces In The Windows

2009-12-01T07:49:00.000-06:00

(This article was originally published in the May-June 2009 edition of HeartCry Magazine. I reflect on the experience often with thanksgiving and a renewed zeal for missions.)

Tears welled up in my eyes as I looked up and saw the faces in the windows. Never before had I witnessed such a desire to hear the preaching of God’s Word. The tiny frame church was full—maybe 80 people. At least fifty other people were standing outside listening to the loudspeaker. And faces crowded the open-air windows with the night sky as a backdrop.

Earlier in the day, not speaking any Spanish, I hadn’t understood the conversation behind me as we crossed the mountain in the back of a pickup truck. But a friend interpreted and whispered in my ear, “More Christians.”

Just before the first evening’s service, I could hear the whine of the engine as it began its descent into the jungle. Then the dim headlights began to flicker in the night. Were these people friend or foe? Locals perhaps? As they pulled into the compound I was dumbfounded. I turned to the young man next to me and asked him to count as I tried to take a picture under the night sky. Twenty more worshipers got out of the tiny truck. Overwhelmed, I walked to the edge of the compound and cried out, “Oh God, how can this be? How can it be that I am here among people of such faith?” I didn’t understand, but I entered the small church with a spirit of thanksgiving and praise.

It must have been 90 degrees inside the church. The daytime temperature had exceeded 100 degrees and the humidity was extreme. The smell of the earthen floor, the rough sawn boards on the walls, the hint of wood smoke from the cooking fires and the makeshift lighting created a distinctly un-American experience in the crowded church. Yet worship flowed freely and with great joy.

The room was silent except for the preaching and the whir of the gasoline generator; every eye and ear was tuned to the message from the pulpit. Mothers gently rocked their babies on the makeshift pews. When the little ones finally caved in utter exhaustion into a deep sleep their mothers lined them up on the cool earth outside the church (on the same cool earth where we would kill a tarantula the next evening) wrapped in alpaca blankets and under the watchful eye of a caretaker.

My heart was taken captivate by those little ones. Who would teach them about Christ? In this part of South America, children either get tough or die. I wondered what lay ahead for them? The thoughts haunt me still. And who would teach them about eternal things; the things of God? The answer was before me. Those mothers and fathers who, with great effort and much hardship had made the trip deep into the jungle to worship with us, would have to teach these children. Those people in their local church would have to teach them…those faces in the windows.

That’s why indigenous missions is so important. Pray that God would be glorified as HeartCry endeavors to support indigenous missions throughout the world.

Thanks to the LORD

2009-11-25T08:11:00.001-06:00

“Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!” ESV Psalm 118:1

It seems that everyone readily admits that for well over a year we have been enduring tough economic times here in the U.S. and abroad. While some industries and families are beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel others are still held fast by the recession’s grip and many people have endured (and are enduring still) great personal trials during this time. How difficult is it to cultivate a thankful heart during such times as these?

Paul admonished the Thessalonians to be thankful in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18) even though they were living in a community that had its share of problems. The Psalmist in our passage today on the other hand admonishes us to be thankful for the right reasons; because God is good and because his love endures. He also notes the recipient of our thanks; God. So, even in times like these, we too should give thanks to God.

I’m reminded of a Puritan prayer, The Valley of Vision, from a book bearing the same title and edited by Arthur Bennett. It goes like this:

Lord, High and holy, meek and lowly,

Thou has brought me to the valley of vision,

were I live in the depths but see thee in the heights;

hemmed in by mountains of sin I behold thy glory.

Let me learn by paradox

that the way down is the way up,

that to be low is to be high,

that the broken heart is the healed heart,

that the contrite spirit is the rejoicing spirit,

that the repenting soul is the victorious soul,

that to have nothing is to possess all,

that to bear the cross is to wear the crown,

that to give is to receive,

that the valley is the place of vision.

Lord, in the daytime stars can be seen from the deepest wells,

and the deeper the wells the brighter thy stars shine;

Let me find thy light in my darkness,

thy life in my death,

thy joy in my sorrow,

thy grace in my sin,

thy riches in my poverty

thy glory in my valley.

Yes, these are difficult times; a valley you might say. Let’s actively search for God’s glory in this valley while remembering and being thankful that God is good and that his love will never leave us.

Deceptive Appearances

2009-11-18T08:10:00.000-06:00

“On the following day, when they came from Bethany, he was hungry. And seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to see if he could find anything on it. When he came to it, he found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. And he said to it, "May no one ever eat fruit from you again." And his disciples heard it.” ESV Mark 11:12-14

Jesus is God. That is a recurring theme in Mark. Over and over Mark gives testimony to Jesus’ deity and he does so once more in these verses. Who can speak commands to a tree and have them come to pass? Only God. But, one might counter that Jesus was a man because God would certainly have no need of food; and that too is affirmed in our verses. In referring to Jesus’ dual nature, some people use the term God-man because Jesus is fully God yet also was fully man for a season. Perhaps his Old Testament name, Immanuel (which means God with us), is the name most descriptive of his nature while on earth.

While Jesus’ dual nature is certainly true and affirmed in our passage, I’d ask you to focus your thoughts on the deceptive appearance of the fig tree for a moment. Figs, our passage tells us, were not yet in season, but from a distance this particular fig tree was deceiving because it gave the appearance of bearing fruit. It was in full leaf, which was a sign that it should likewise be loaded with fruit. So, Jesus made his way to the tree, no doubt anticipating selecting a few choice figs and satisfying his hunger. Profound disappointment replaced hopeful anticipation as Jesus searched the tree for fruit and the tree received his scorn.

Now consider this. If Jesus walked into our town, physically and mentally exhausted and hungry for the fellowship and worship to be found in the local church, what would he find? If Jesus spotted your church in the distance adorned with a steeple and Christian symbols and giving all outward appearances of being a church, would he be satisfied with what he found inside? Would he find a fellowship of true believers and a house of worship or a house of entertainment? Would there be any spiritual fruit to be found in the majestic, sentimental building?

In reference to our text and the broader passage J.C. Ryle gives this warning: “Let us remember these verses whenever we go to the house of God…Let us call to mind where we are…what we are doing…in whose presence we are engaged. Let us beware of giving God a mere formal service, while our hearts are full of the world. Let us leave our business and money at home, and not carry them to church….The Lord still lives, who cast out buyers and sellers from the temple…”

Could it happen at your church? Would Jesus feel deceived and disappointed if He came into your church building seeking fellowship and worship or would you receive His scorn? May it never be! Strive to be a biblical church in every way, worshipping the living God in spirit and truth each and every day.

The Rhythm of Life

2009-11-15T16:05:00.001-06:00

“Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” ESV Psalm 46:10

Having visited India just a few weeks ago, I am still fascinated with the contrast in cultures. As I gazed out the car window one day, with what I suppose was either a look of bewilderment or fascination, my traveling companion noted that the “rhythm of life” was different in India when compared to the United States.

The sheer mass of humanity in India (depending on your source something on the order of 1.1-1.3 billion people populate India) would lead one to believe that life is chaotic and frantic there, but that didn’t seem to be case. Ironically, things seemed to move in a very methodical, fluid and sometimes ancient fashion.

In the rural regions I visited I also noted the absence of leisurely distractions. It seemed to me that everyone was fully engaged, from early in the morning till late, late at night, in the simple activities of daily living; earning wages for the day and providing for the needs of their families. The concept of daily entertainment or retirement would seem strange to most of the people I met; yet their lifestyles yielded a rather peaceful rhythm of life.

In stark contrast, it seems that here in the United States we try to cram as much productivity into an 8 to 10 hour work day as possible so that we can entertain ourselves and our families each and every evening and look forward to retiring at a relatively young age from our labors. The result is a frantic rhythm of life.

Yet it seems that in both countries the rhythm of life leaves little time for the God of the bible. I specifically mention “God of the bible” because we most certainly have time to worship other things in both cultures.

The Psalmist warns against ignoring God. The first sentence of our verse “Be still and know that I am God” is well known and often quoted as an encouragement to slow down from the frantic rhythm of life and take a deep, relaxing breath. And while I would agree that it is refreshing to pause and enjoy with wonder the Creator of heaven and earth for a moment, this verse also carries a stark statement of fact that is a warning to us that God is more than a refreshing aside.

There will come a time, notes the Psalmist, when “I [God] will be exalted among the nations, I [God] will be exalted in all the earth.” You see, the “God of the bible” should be the very fabric of our daily lives. He is deserving of our worship and attention every moment and He should be the object of our obsession in the rhythm of life. He most certainly will be the lone object of our worship and adoration one day, and He most certainly should be today.

Answers here, there and everywhere

2009-11-09T23:46:00.000-06:00

“Ephraim is like a dove, silly and without sense, calling to Egypt, going to Assyria.” Hosea 7:11

Anyone who has ever been dove hunting knows that a dove is like a fighter jet in the sky. With their wings swept back into a distinct, aerodynamic point, they are quick, agile, and able to accelerate or turn on a dime. By comparison, their heavier cousin, the pigeon, lumbers along with its massive weight like a transport plane. All the while their lighter relatives, like sparrows, just sort of sputter from one place to the next.

In our generation the dove is many times presented as symbol of love or peace and some religious traditions hold it in high esteem as a symbol of their faith. But Hosea is speaking of the dove negatively in this context; calling its actions silly.

In the field, their distinctive form and speed make them easily recognizable by hunters. Their keen eyesight is the bane of many a hunter if he moves at the wrong time; move just a little too quick, or too soon in a dove hunt you’ll make your shot more challenging every time because the dove will go into “fighter jet” mode. At the first sign of movement it will accelerate and begin to pitch up and down and bank left and right in moves that would make an acrobat queasy; all in an effort to seek safety and security.

So why does Hosea speak of these characteristics negatively? In context, Hosea is writing about a nation that has abandoned God. Among other things, he likens them to an unfaithful spouse; a nation that has abandoned its first love and looked elsewhere for safety and security.

Forsaking God, they begin to look a bit silly, like a dove seeking safety over a hunter’s field, bouncing around and vacillating between decisions seeking safety and security at every turn. Our passage suggests that Ephraim had sought pacts with opposing nations in an effort to secure peace and safety.

How often, I wonder, do we look like Ephraim; silly like a dove? How often do we seek answers to life’s problems from those around us? How often do we seek safety and security at every turn while at the same time ignoring God? As a nation I’d venture to guess that we look a lot like Ephraim did in Hosea; like an unfaithful spouse; like a silly dove.

The peace that God grants surpasses all understanding. So, in our daily search for understanding, safety, and security, we don’t need to turn to seers that abound on every corner. No, we need only to turn (or return) to God. The Psalmist describes it this way: “Behold, as the eyes of servants look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maidservant to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the Lord our God, till the has mercy on us.” (Psalm 123:2)

Look expectantly to the Lord and you won’t be disappointed.

Walking With God

2009-10-31T18:03:00.000-05:00

“Enoch walked with God, and he was not, for God took him.” ESV Genesis 5:24

For the past several days I’ve been dwelling on a sermon I heard just over two years ago. I even downloaded it from the internet and listened to it again this week. It was titled “Four Essentials of Finishing Well” and was presented by an elderly gentleman named Jerry Bridges who I’ve come to respect immensely.

Now well into his seventies, Mr. Bridges is a very unassuming and humble character. He walks with a slight stoop, but his gait is quick and his mind is sharp. His ministry is not pastoral, but what is termed “lay” ministry. He has toiled and persevered in that same ministry for over 50 years with an organization called The Navigators.

As the title indicates, Mr. Bridges’ speech pointed out four essentials to living a Christian life faithfully to the very end. Now think with me for a moment. Here’s a guy, highly revered in Christian circles, well into his seventies who has been in ministry at the same place for over 50 years. He’s working every day at an age when most have entered retirement and now he’s about to speak to me about what it takes to “finish well;” he had my attention.

The first essential to finishing well is to have daily, focused communion with God. Mr. Bridges alluded to the fact that there is indeed a difference between communing with God and simply skimming a section of His word. I wonder how often I’ve let the noise of the day crowd out time alone with God? Far more than I would care to admit I am sure.

The second essential to finishing well is to have a daily appropriation of the gospel. Mr. Bridges noted specifically that the gospel of Jesus Christ was not just for lost people; believers need the gospel too! He pointed to the life of the Apostle Paul for whom the gospel was not just a past event, but a present reality. Daily recognition of God’s loving gift of his Son as a substitute sacrifice for me should produce humility in my soul.

The third essential Mr. Bridges articulated was that we must make a daily commitment to God as a living sacrifice. He appropriately noted that if we look at each day as a day as God’s servant, the noise of the day is less tiresome.

His final point was that to finish well, we need a firm belief in God’s sovereignty. Living each day with the knowledge that God is all knowing, all powerful and perfect in every way keeps us from becoming bitter at the events that unfold in our lives.

Enoch walked with God. I have no doubt that Mr. Bridges strives daily to walk with God. It should be the desire of each of us to do the same so that when we come to rest it can be said of us: ________ walked with God.

Continual Praise

2009-10-21T21:12:00.000-05:00

“I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth.” ESV Psalm 34:1

It is so very easy to be thankful to God when things are going your way; when life is rocking along according to plans. But it can be terribly difficult to have thanksgiving in your heart when times are difficult or when the best plans go amiss or simply when our expectations are not met.

This past week I spent some time visiting with a missionary family in India. Anybody who’s been on a trip like that knows that it pays to be flexible. Ironically, anybody who knows me well knows that flexibility isn’t one of my strong points. But that’s beside the point. The point is that with international travel life is less stressful when you are flexible.

While I was gone I happened upon Psalm 34 and as I studied this first verse I began to wonder how less stressful life would be if I could live out this verse in every circumstance. How much less stress would each day hold if I offered continual praise to God? How much less stress would each day hold if I praised the Lord at all times?

It is a long, long way to India so I was truly thankful when the nice lady at Royal Dutch Airlines placed me in excellent seats for the two long portions of my flight over. But I confess that I did not have praise in my heart when I was asked to give up one of those seats so that a traveling couple would not be separated. Now I didn’t quibble over the request for even a moment, but I was not immediately thankful for the opportunity to accommodate a fellow traveler either.

On the return flight, my seats were even better and I was truly thankful to have an aisle seat the whole way home. But I was less thankful for the company of the person sitting in the window seat that was undoubtedly battling a common travel ailment; she must have gotten up once per hour. But in hindsight, I needed to stretch my tired legs about that often anyway.

At this point you might legitimately ask, “How trivial is an airplane flight in the big scheme of things?” I’d have to confess that it is very trivial in the big scheme of things. But remember, the smallest packages sometimes contain the nicest gifts and it is in the smallest details that our faith is polished and refined.

In the parable of the minas in Luke 19, the nobleman rewards faithful servants exponentially; cities in exchange for minas. In similar fashion, I think our lives speak loudest in the simplest things. Does your life and attitude betray a heart full of continual praise?

Lord, enable us to be faithful in the smallest details of life. Enable us to continually give praise to you in all situations so that your name might be glorified by our lifestyle.

When You Come

2009-10-08T23:13:00.001-05:00

“When you come, bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, also the books, and above all the parchments.” ESV 2Timothy 4:13

In the course of just a few verses, Paul urges Timothy twice to waste no time in coming to him. He tells him first “come to me soon” and later to “come before winter.” You see, many of Paul’s friends and ministry companions had left him and he no doubt longed to see a long-time friend and ministry partner.

But Paul didn’t just need Timothy as a Christian companion and co-laborer in the ministry. Paul also had some very practical needs. Winter would be upon him soon but his cloak was in Troas. He needed some books for study and “above all the parchments;” all very practical, everyday items that could easily be taken for granted in America today. It’s noteworthy I suppose to mention that Paul was most likely in prison and no doubt in harsh conditions when his letter to was written, but Paul did some of his best ministry work in harsh conditions.

I’d venture to guess that most Christian ministry, on a global scale, takes place in what we would consider harsh conditions and without what we would consider proper tools. Think about it for a moment.When’s the last time you worshipped on a dirt floor in a barn? Do you see people gathering under lantern light to worship often? How often have you gathered in someone’s house under the cloak of darkness for fear of persecution because of your faith? These things are reality for much of the world.

Recently I corresponded with a missionary couple living in Asia. In one exchange I asked if they had any current needs that would help them in their ministry. Their reply was very simple, very practical, and very much like Paul’s appeal to Timothy. They wrote: “We are happy that you'll be coming here in October. Regarding our needs…we still [a] need laptop computer and guitar and a Bible (New KJV) medium in size.”

Here’s how I interpret their needs. We need a computer that will be portable and useful for studying, writing and basic communications and for presentations. We need a guitar; a portable stringed instrument to use in worship. Finally, and most importantly, we need a new Bible that is the proper size and printed in a version that is familiar in our region. Just basic, practical stuff when you think about it.

By the grace of God, as this article goes to print, I am either making final preparations to go or am already in the midst of a trip to try and meet these very practical ministry needs. My local church (www.tharptown.com) has helped fund the travel costs and given generously to provide for the items needed. Desiring God Ministries (www.desiringgod.org) has donated a suitcase full of educational material and I would not be going at all were it not for the ministry work of HeartCry Missionary Society (www.hcmissions.org). I want to publically thank these folks for their generous heart and ask each of you to pray for a safe and fruitful trip. God bless.

The Heart of Man

2009-09-30T13:36:00.000-05:00

“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it?” ESV Jeremiah 17:9

Welcome to hell. Those were the words spray painted in red onto an old rusted sign just south of town. It was my first trip into the hill country of eastern Kentucky. I had spent the night in Cumberland Gap, Tennessee and at first light I made my way through the Appalachian mountain pass long associated with Daniel Boone who led 18th century settlers through the pass on what was known as the Wilderness Road.

With an early morning sales call under my belt, I forged northward along narrow, twisting two-lane roads that never seemed to stray far from a stream or the side of a mountain it seemed. The scenery was picturesque, but even in my naive bliss the road seemed a somewhat desolate and lonely. Just before my second stop the sign appeared on my right and even though it was 1993, I still recall it vividly—words scrawled with red spray paint onto a weathered metal sign with a heavy basecoat of rust. Why? I wondered.

Stopping at McDonalds for lunch, I picked up a national newspaper whose headlines announced that Clay county Kentucky was one of the poorest counties in the nation; not exactly a distinction endeared by the locals. But this headline was neither the first nor the last that the locals would endure.

My second stop was at a mobile home lot that sat on top of the hill behind McDonald’s. A one-lane gravel road rose from the highway to a flat spot on top of the hill where several dozen homes and an office sat. This particular business had made headlines recently after an arsonist set fire to every other home on the lot. The pictures of the aftermath looked like a war zone. Why? I wondered.

On September 12, 2009 Clay County made national news again after a 51-year-old census worker was found dead and hanging from a tree in a remote cemetery with the word “fed” scrawled across his chest. Why? Why such senseless, evil behavior I wonder? Perhaps the teaching of the prophet Jeremiah sheds as much light on it as anything. The heart of man is truly wicked; “deceitful above all things and desperately sick...” the prophet says.

This is not an indictment against Clay County Kentucky nor is this is an indictment against the poor. Evil knows no geographical or economic bounds. If anything, this is an indictment against mankind. Ever since that first sin in Eden, evil has tainted the world we live in. Clay County Kentucky is not immune and neither is Franklin County Alabama.

While Jeremiah pegs the problem, he also pegs the solution just a few verses later. In verse 14 he prays, “Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved, for you are my praise.” May that be our prayer today whether we live in the mountains of eastern Kentucky or the foothills of Franklin County; Heal us, O Lord...

Absolute Truth

2009-09-23T22:02:00.000-05:00

But he answered, "It is written, "' Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" ESV Matthew 4:4

Some things never change. And in the case of the Bible, God’s word, I sure am glad; glad that the Bible speaks absolute truth. If God’s word is not absolute, if it is situational or “relative,” then what have we got to lean on? If the bible is relative, Christians are to be most pitied because our faith is built on shifting sands.

We can come up with many examples of truth from our daily experiences, but they all fall short of being “absolute.” Let’s take deadlines for instance. This newspaper imposes deadlines on me. Regardless of whether it suites me, this paper goes to press on a schedule; with or without my article for the week! Zig Ziglar has a unique way of dealing with this type of truth. He says that he made a deal with the airlines long ago that they could just go ahead and leave without him if he were not at the gate at departure time. But these are truths that may or may not come to pass; deadlines change, flight schedules change, etc. But the word of God never changes; it is absolute and enduring.

Too many times we make truth “relative” by acknowledging “truth” based on our circumstances and/or personal convictions. I call it the “this is truth for me” mentality. But when we do this, truth becomes relative. And when truth is relative, we can manufacture and twist it to fit our particular circumstance or need of the moment. Of course, the results of this kind of thinking can be chaotic; leading everyone to do what is right based on his or her opinion. That’s one reason why I find great comfort in the fact that the Bible speaks absolute truth that endures forever. I like what Isaiah had to say: “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.” ESV Isaiah 40:8

When Jesus was being tempted by the devil in the wilderness after forty days of fasting, he used the phrase “it is written” four different times to refer to absolute truths that we find in the Bible. Interestingly, God’s word was the only defense that Jesus used against Satan himself!

Now I ask you, if God’s word is a reliable and sufficient defense against the Devil himself, how much more so can we rely on it in our daily lives? Rest in the truth of the Bible this week; regardless of what comes your way, you will find it to be a reliable and sufficient guide for daily living.

Ken Askew

Among the tombs

2009-09-21T09:33:00.001-05:00

“And when Jesus had stepped out of the boat, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit. He lived among the tombs. And no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain...” ESV mark 5:2-3

“He lived among the tombs.” How fitting it is that a demon possessed man would live contentedly in a graveyard among the dead. I say contentedly because we are told that even chains would not hold him anymore. Society had not found a proper or effective way of dealing with him and, left to his own devices, he wound up in a cemetery; a spiritually dead man living with physically dead men.

Even though, perhaps because, he could not be cuffed and no man had the strength to take him, this man wandered the tombs and the mountainside outside of town making a scene and doing himself (and no doubt others) physical harm. But interestingly, the bible tells us that when he encounters Jesus he “fell down before him” and calls him the “Son of the most high God.” So once again the writer of Mark shows us that Jesus is God; this time by giving us a picture of Jesus’ ultimate authority–even over demons.

The story goes on to identify not one, but many demons living within this man. Having begged permission from Jesus to be cast into a herd of pigs rather than meet with some other demise, Jesus grants the demons’ request. Interestingly, the pigs immediately ran down an embankment and drowned themselves. The scriptures don’t tell us why, but I can’t help but imagine that it’s a picture of self destructive, spiritually dead people; a picture of a lost world running into the darkness without God.

The heartwarming side of this story is that the dastardly wicked and nasty man that we met early in the story is now in his right mind, clean, and in fresh clothes. The change in his behavior is so drastic that the townspeople are afraid of him still, but for entirely different reasons than before. Now they are marveling at the change that has apparently taken place in his life. Isn’t it wonderful how knowing Christ as Lord instead of the devil as lord changes lives?

This changed man asks Jesus if he can go with him as he leaves the area but Jesus turns him down. Instead, Jesus, uncharacteristically at this point in his ministry, tells the man to “Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord as done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” In his commentary on the gospels J.C. Ryle points out that Jesus was effectively assigning, calling if you will, this man to a ministry. Not necessarily the ministry of the man’s own choosing, but to an effective ministry for the kingdom of God, right there in his hometown, telling people about the mercies of God.

I hope that you’ve encountered Jesus, the living God. May your life be a testimony and a ministry to His great mercies.

Arturo says hello.

2009-09-10T23:26:00.001-05:00

“And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”” ESV Matthew 28:18-20

A few weeks ago I shared a stirring video I found online with some friends that highlighted the need and importance of Christian missions around the world. I labeled the video link with my feeling at the moment, “Thinking about foreign missions.”

The video elicited several responses, but perhaps the most moving to me was the one from a local man that said, “I think about foreign missions every hour I’m awake.” True to his word, he and his wife are volunteering Haiti as I write this column and this is not their first trip. As I think abut his comment and his trip it occurs to me that every Christian should be thinking of how they might further the Great Commission every waking hour.

Another Franklin County son has been to India distributing bibles more times than I can recall. Proving that age is no hindrance, he didn’t take his first trip till after he retired from teaching. One of the strangest requests I’ve had professionally was from a Sunday School teacher wondering how much it would cost his class in dollars to convert into enough rupees for him to buy a scooter on his next trip to India.

Two friends from the Shoals who are full-time missionaries just returned from a seven-week trip to Peru where they visited some of the same Peruvian pastors that I was able to meet just about a year ago. To my surprise and great joy one of pastors made them promise to “tell Ken Arturo says hello.” He and his family overwhelmed our team with hospitality while we were in Peru.

There are perhaps more of your friends and neighbors traveling and ministering abroad than you know because most of them do it quietly. I’m aware of one young couple currently in town for some rest and relaxation who are missionaries to Peru and many others who have been on short term trips here in the U.S. Our new pastor at Tharptown Baptist Church, Josh, just returned with his wife and daughter from a twenty month missions tour in India.

As a Christian, the command to spread the good news is clear. The question is sometimes how; how do I make disciples of all nations? Well, here locally there is no excuse for not sharing your faith. Internationally? Admittedly, international missions is not everyone’s calling, but I see two solutions; either go or send. If you make yourself available, plenty of opportunities to “go” will appear. If you choose instead to “send” you’ll find your choices so plentiful that in the interest of good stewardship you’ll have to be cautious about the organizations you give to.

Will you go or send?

Ken Askew

God in a Box

2009-09-02T19:23:00.001-05:00

“And the scribes who came down from Jerusalem were saying, “He is possessed by Beelzebul,” and by the prince of demons.” ESV Mark 3:22

As I read Mark’s gospel I get the feeling that he’s bullet pointing Jesus’ ministry in some kind of outline form. A Dragnet version if you will; “...just the facts maam.” The early chapters of the book move so quickly from one event to the next that I find myself having to stop and think about what just happened. Even the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness for forty days only comprised two verses. Yet in every story, in every bullet point, the writer of Mark strives to make one overriding point that must not be missed: “Jesus Christ, [is] the Son of God.”

So, as we read about Jesus preaching repentance, cleansing lepers, healing the paralytic, calling disciples and attracting crowds that would make the most influential politician green with envy, we must understand that these things are taking place so that people will know that Jesus is the Son of God.

By the time we get to chapter three the elite of the community, the Pharisees and the scribes, are plotting against him. And while Jesus is angry at their hypocrisy, he is also grieved at the hardness of their heart.

Mark 3:22 is one of those places where I had to stop and think about the text. I asked myself why the Pharisees and scribes couldn’t see that Jesus was the Son of God. How could they go so far as to say that his ministry was of the devil himself? And here’s the conclusion I came to. The religious folks of the day didn’t accept Jesus for who he was because he didn’t fit their image of God. They were blinded by their own hard hearts and they never came to know Jesus as the Son of God. In other words, Jesus would not fit in the neat, tidy box that they imagined.

Fast forward till today. Does God fit into your box?

Hindsight is 20/20 they say; or is it? We have the testimony of the Old Testament prophets concerning Christ that is documented and confirmed in many cases by the New Testament eyewitness accounts. The public ministry of Christ is well documented. All the Apostles, excepting perhaps John, met a martyrs death for their enduring faith and testimony. Evidence abounds that Jesus was and is the Son of God yet many still reject this truth.

Will you worship the Creator who crafted you in His image or will your craft a god that will fit into your box?

Ken Askew

Near The Bridegroom

2009-08-26T22:56:00.001-05:00

“And Jesus said to them, “Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. The days will come hen the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast in that day.”” ESV Mark 2:19-20

Can you remember what it was like when you were courting your spouse? Do you remember the feelings of infatuation, and eventually love that swept over you? Do you remember how even a short absence felt like an eternity? What were some of the actions you took to feel closer when you were separated? What were some of the things you did in order to bring you together in person?

I asked these questions in a group setting recently and got all kinds of answers. Melisa claims that I used to ride down the road in front of her house. It’s a charge I cannot deny even though it seems funny to me now that I would have done that. But even funnier still is the thought of her sitting in her bedroom window watching for me! I mean it wasn’t like I could buzz her cell phone and let her know I was nearby. My goodness, back then a land-line or CB radio was the only way to communicate!

Several people confessed to looking at pictures and longing to be with their boyfriend or girlfriend. One person said she kept her boyfriend’s pet because it made her feel nearer to him in some way. Everyone did something to bring the to mind that special person during an absence. Everyone did something in order to feel closer to their special friend.

That is in essence the purpose of fasting. Fasting is an action on our part to bring to mind our Lord, Jesus Christ. It is an act that draws our attention and focus to Him while we are separated from him physically. The “day” spoken of in our verse is upon us. The Bridegroom is in heaven and will one day return. What are you doing to draw closer to Him while we are physically separated? What are you doing today to focus your attention on the Bridegroom? Do you long to be united with Jesus?

I’m reminded of a song by the group Mercy Me titled I Can Only Imagine. The first verse and chorus go like this: “I can only imagine what it will be like when I walk by your side. I can only imagine what my eyes will see when your face is before me. I can only imagine. Surrounded by your glory, what will my heart feel? Will I dance for you Jesus or in awe of you be still? Will I stand in your presence or to my knees will I fall? Will I sing hallelujah? Will I be able to sing at all? I can only imagine. I can only imagine”

Do you imagine?

Ken Askew

Look!

2009-08-19T18:38:00.002-05:00

As I bounced my friend’s baby on my lap I couldn’t help smiling. Babies are just so cute when they’re just old enough that you don’t fear breaking them yet they are still young enough that absolutely everything is a fresh adventure.

This little girl was infatuated with my water bottle. (Isn’t it funny how the simplest things sometimes trump the grandest toys?) I don’t know whether it was the blue label or the sound the bottle made when I crinkled it with my hand, but she loved it and her eyes would immediately fixate on it whenever it came into view.

As I reflect on her fascination, a sermon illustration I heard sometime back comes to mind. When you take a very young child and try to focus their attention on something by pointing, what usually catches their attention? Your finger! Children have to learn that your finger is not the object you are drawing attention to. They have to learn that the finger is just a pointer and that the focal object is beyond your fingertip.

Many times stories we find in the bible are, much like your fingertip, “pointers” in that they point to a much grander and magnificent object beyond the immediate story. For instance, the early chapters of Mark’s gospel are filled with miracle stories; demons are cast out, deathly sick people are fully healed with Jesus’ touch, lepers are cleansed, and the lame are made able to walk. All the stories are fascinating and all of them are worthy of capturing our attention. I confess that many times I have become captivated with the details of the stories themselves, but what is the proper object of my attention? What do the stories point to? Do they point to a grander truth?

In the case of Mark’s gospel, let me suggest that the fascinating miracle stories in those early chapters point to three grand, overriding truths. First, that Jesus Christ was the Son of God. (Mark 1:1) Secondly, that the kingdom of God has arrived, though not in its full glory, and thirdly that we should repent and believe the gospel. (Mark 1:14-15)

Let me encourage you to read the stories in scripture with the fascination of a child. But don’t become fixated on the stories themselves. Instead, read the stories in scripture with the discernment of an adult and look beyond the story to those grander truths that the stories point to.

Yes, Jesus cast out demons. Yes, Jesus healed the sick. Yes, Jesus cleansed the lepers and caused the lame to walk. But grander still, and the worthy object of our attention, Jesus was the Son of God; Immanuel (meaning God with us)!

Ken Askew

A Man’s Man

2009-08-17T20:42:00.000-05:00

“John appeared, baptizing in the wilderness and proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. And all the country of Judea and all Jerusalem were going out to him and were being baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. Now John was clothed with camel’s hair and wore a leather belt around his waist and ate locusts and wild honey.” ESV Mark 1:4-6

Had I lived then, I think I would have enjoyed meeting John the Baptist and listening to him preach. Clothed in camel’s hair, living off the land, and preaching in the wilderness, John the Baptist was a man’s man. He must have been a dynamic speaker as well because he was attracting followers from all of Judea and Jerusalem. John had his own mega-church in the wood. I wonder what the music was like; contemporary or traditional?

But John’s purpose was not to attract a crowd. John’s purpose was not to build a huge following. John’s purpose was not to entertain with popular music at the gatherings. No, John’s purpose was singular; to announce and prepare the way for Jesus to begin His earthly ministry. Nor was John’s ministry of his own creation. Mark tells us that John’s ministry had been prophesied hundreds of years earlier by Isaiah.

Perhaps most importantly, John the Baptist preached the coming of one mightier than him. John baptized with water, but he preached of the Son of God, Jesus, who would baptize with the Holy Spirit.

Sadly, the truth that John proclaimed didn’t always ‘stick.’ In the Gospel of John, Jesus says that John “was a burning and shining lamp, and you were willing to rejoice for a while in his light.” You see, John was a lamp, but as my study bible notes point out, he was not the “Light.” Jesus is the light that John pointed to. And while it is easy to get caught up in the excitement of a popular pastor or church, the experience never bears lasting fruit unless the truth of Christ is proclaimed and accepted.

What is the truth about Christ? Well, Jesus Christ came to earth, lived a sinless life even though he was tempted just like you and me, was convicted and died a criminals death for transgressions he did not commit so that the rest of us could become reconciled to God through faith in him. This is the gospel. This is the simple gospel message that Jesus spoke of in Mark 1:14 when he said: “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.”

Dynamic preachers are great and it is exciting to be in an energetic church that is growing. But if the simple gospel is not being preached, the excitement will wane and no lasting fruit will come forth. Don’t place your faith in the lamp. Place your faith in the Light; Jesus Christ.

Ken Askew

Pray then like this

2009-08-05T16:53:00.001-05:00

“Pray then like this: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we have also forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.” ESV Matthew 6:9-13

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus warns folks not to pray so that they might be seen by others or to offer prayers that included meaningless repetition, but instead to pray privately with all sincerity. (The issue is not so much whether our prayers are public, but the reasons and sincerity behind our prayers.) Then Jesus began to teach them how to pray. In his commentary on the Gospels, J.C. Ryle points out ten parts to this model prayer and I am indebted to him for opening my eyes in regards to The Lords’ Prayer.

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Oh how thankful I am for the privilege of being able to pray to you Father who I know as my Creator, my God, my Redeemer, and not to some other created being or a deaf and dumb idol. Thank you Father! And Lord, may your name be glorified this day. May your name be exalted. May all creation praise you!

Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Lord in one sense your kingdom has already come in that Jesus has established his church here on earth. Yet we have not yet seen your kingdom in all its glory. We have not yet witnessed every tongue confessing you as Lord nor have we seen your church removed from the presence of sin. Lord, we know your timing and will is perfect and we gladly submit to your pleasures and long for the day when your will would be brought about in fullness here on earth just as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we have also forgiven our debtors. Lord, as we go about our daily tasks, let us not lose sight of the fact that we are dependent upon you even for the very air that we breathe. The Psalmist reminds us that even the lions depend upon you for their food and we are no less dependent. Lord, even your church is not without sin and we beg your forgiveness and we ask for wisdom and strength to forgive those who have wronged us as well.

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Lord, you know we are weak and prone to give into temptation. Lord, when opportunity to sin is presented, may there be no desire in our hearts and when are hearts are filled with desire to sin, may there be no opportunity. Your word teaches us that the devil is constantly roaming to see whom he may devour. Lord, keep us from his jaws; deliver us from the evil one. Amen.

Ken Askew

False Witness

2009-07-29T22:33:00.000-05:00

“You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.” ESV Exodus 20:16

This past Sunday in bible study several couples enjoyed a very lively and candid discussion about the last three commandments. But I think it was this one (the ninth commandment) that prompted the most discussion. As we’ve gone through each of them one by one over the course of several weeks, a common trait has emerged; each of the Ten Commandments has a much deeper meaning than what is found on the surface and of course this one is no different.

On the surface the ninth commandment seems to be saying that we should not lie. This is a no brainer because the Gospel of John goes so far as to identify the Devil as the “father of lies” (John 8:44). With very little effort then, one could quickly guess that it is best to tell the truth (see Psalm 15). So, if Christians should refrain from lying and speak truthfully in all situations, it stands to reason that gossip and slander are out as well. So, where’s the rub? What’s so difficult about this commandment?

Well, how exactly are we supposed to convey truth? Also, while we would all readily agree that the truth should always be told, should all the truth always be told? Hmm... How is that for a mind bender?

Here’s an example we came up with in class. Suppose that we meet tomorrow in town and you are wearing a fine suit of cloths that accentuates the positive features of your face, your hair color, and even your eyes, but it also positively makes you look fifteen pounds heavier than your actual weight. If that were the case, would it be helpful for me to share with you all that I know to be true at that moment? No, of course not, that would be sinful just as surely as it would be sinful for me to lie and say the suit of clothes makes you look lighter.

You see, even when telling the truth, which is obviously commanded on the surface, other biblical principles come to bear on the situation. When it comes to words, one of my favorite biblical tests is this: Is what I’m saying likely to be received and understood as gracious by the person I’m speaking of? This principle comes straight from Ephesians 4:29 which says that Christians are to, “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.”

Whey not make it a goal this week to choose your words in such a way that your speech is both truthful and gracious? In the process, you’ll be honoring the deeper, fuller meaning of the ninth command.

Ken Askew