THE WAY TO PROMOTION

Man’s way is to promote himself. We seek to climb the ladder-whether it be in a secular job, a social state, even a spiritual ministry. If we have to climb over others to reach a higher state, then so be it. We maximize our successes and minimize our shortcomings. The reality is—it often works!  Yet, no matter how high we climb, someone else will always be above us. No matter how much we possess, someone else will have more. 

Yet, there is nothing wrong with seeking promotion—if we do it God’s way and for His glory. James tells us how. “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up,” (James‬ ‭4‬:‭10‬‬). 

He speaks of ABASEMENT, “Humble yourselves.”  We abase ourselves, when we intentionally surrender to the Sovereign God and submit to His will. Now, God can humble us. He can bend us, bow us, even break us. Far better, however, is to choose to humble ourselves. 

James also points to AWARENESS, “in the sight of the Lord.”  Our aim is not to draw the eyes of men to gaze upon us and have their acclaim. It matters not how our fellow humans may judge us. Ultimately, all that matters is what God sees and knows. One day, He will reward us accordingly.  Do not seek celebrity status here, but serve to be crowned hereafter!

Trust in God’s way of ADVANCEMENT, “and He will lift you up.”  A dear mentor of mine, Dale Fisher, told me in the early days of my ministry, “God knows where you are and can get you where He wants you to be.”  The denominational executives may not know your name. Some megachurch may not have you on the radar—and would not even consider your resume. How many of God’s faithful servants labor in obscurity!  

Press on dear one—God will lift you up, in His time and in His manner. Jesus set the pattern and we are to have His mindset. 

“Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭5‬-‭11‬‬)

This is God’s way of promotion—the way of the cross!

THE SOLUTION TO SLUGGISHNESS

 

Sluggishness is sinfulness. We are commanded, “do not become sluggish,” (Heb. 6:12), which implies three things. First, there is a temptation that we will settle into sluggishness. None of us are immune. Second, we need not surrender to sluggishness. It is a choice and God gives us the power to overcome. Third, there is a solution to sluggishness and it is given in Hebrews 6:10-12. 

The solution to sluggishness is a consideration of OUR FUTURE, “For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister,” (v. 10). Satan will whisper, “Your work is in vain. All that effort and what do you have to show for it? Nobody even notices. You need to step back and sit down.”  He is a liar! God is watching and He will reward you for all the weary work and loving labor that you do in ministry to the people of God. Just because you do not receive the recognition you merit or the reward you deserve on earth, does not mean you will not. That is for eternity, so press on!

The solution to sluggishness further calls for a consecration to OUR FAITHFULNESS, “And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end,” (v. 11). Instead of being indolent, we need to be diligent. Our body belongs to God. Paul spoke of that consecration in Romans 12:1, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.” Christ purchased us with His precious blood. He gave His all for us and so now demands we give our all to Him. That is service that is “reasonable.”

Then, the solution to sluggishness requires a concentration with OUR FOCUS, “that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises,” (v. 12‬‬). When we are weary and worn, it is easy to become distracted. We lose sight of the eternal treasure and slip into playing with earthly trinkets. There are many who do, yet there are a few who have relentlessly focused on finishing the race well. We are to focus on the faithful and follow in their footsteps. Hebrews 11 will set forth such models for us to imitate in faith and patience. Church history is replete with such stories of those who did not succumb to sluggishness, but strove to success.

Nearly half a century ago, I copied the following poem in my Bible to spur me on lest I become sluggish. 

Don’t Quit
by
Edgar Guest

When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,
And the road you're trudging seems all uphill,
When the funds are low and the debts are high,
And you want to smile, but you have to sigh,
When care is pressing you down a bit,
Rest if you must, but don't you quit.

Life is queer with its twists and turns,
As every one of us sometimes learns.
And many a failure turns about
When he might have won had he stuck it out.
Don't give up though the pace seems slow,
You may succeed with another blow.

Often the goal is nearer than 
It seems to a faint and faltering man.
Often the struggler has given up 
When he might have captured the victor's cup,
And he learned too late when the night slipped down,
How close he was to the golden crown.

Success is failure turned inside out,
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,
And you never can tell how close you are.
It may be near when it seems afar.
So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit.
It's when things seem worst that
You musn't quit.

MILK, MEAT, AND MATURITY

The writer of Hebrews in chapter five, verses 12-14, chides the congregation for their lack of spiritual growth. The foundational principles ought to have been learned and built upon. When they should have been focused on growing, they were still fixated on grounding. The preacher must consider his audience and feed them appropriately.

Babes need MILK, “you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe,” (v. 12b-13). They would choke on meat. We should always have some infants in the audience. That means the church is engaged in evangelism and new spiritual babes are being birthed into the family of God. The preachers and teachers must consider them and nurture them. Only as they are given milk will they have healthy growth.

Adults need MEAT, “But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil,” (v. 14). If the preachers and teachers only offer milk and do not give meat when the believers need it, then their growth will be stunted and they may well seek another local church where meat is offered. There ought always be grown-ups in the congregation, for this means the church is dedicated to discipleship. Solid, substantial Scriptural truths are given to them to chew on as growth is sustained.

Soul nourishment brings MATURITY. Babies are precious, but if they never develop then there is a problem. As that is contrary to the normal physical pattern, it is likewise in the spiritual realm. 

This is evidenced by duplication, “For though by this time you ought to be teachers,” (v. 12a). Children have matured biologically when they can reproduce. They not only have the capacity to do so, but the competency for doing so. Maturing disciples multiply disciples. The taught become teachers. 

It is also manifested in discernment, “that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil,” (v. 14). The immature are easily led astray. Children are naive and gullible. You have to keep poisons locked away from them or they will consume them. The church may have those prone to drink toxins as if it were truth. Cult members target such. Adults have learned to weigh what is presented to them. There is discernment that detects what is good and they swallow it, but the evil doesn’t pass, “the smell test.” They sniff it, and usually turn from it, but if they taste it they spit it out!

The healthy church family is one where new babies are being birthed and given milk to mature them, and where maturing saints are discipled as they are given meat to multiply them. The church’s preachers and teachers must be mature and model this if they are thus to lead the congregation.

EXPOSITION AND EXHORTATION

As the Word of God is expounded, the people of God are exhorted to stay true to God. The Lord is the only One who can save us and secure us. It is His grace that does so. Yet, He has chosen to use human means as the channel for providing heaven’s might. God uses the power of His Word as it is proclaimed as the seed of salvation that sown in the heart inspires saving faith in those who receive it.  Paul states this in Romans 10:14-17:

“How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, Who bring glad tidings of good things!’ But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, ‘Lord, who has believed our report?’ So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” 

Further, the expounded Word is the means whereby God continues to channel sustaining grace into the hearts of believers. By that grace, we endure to the end. So, Hebrews stresses THE ESSENTIALITY OF EXHORTATION. We are called to exhort each other to endure. Those who remain true show true faith. While we are saved by faith alone, saving faith is never alone. Our works are not the root of salvation, but they are the fruit of it. There were Hebrews who had professed faith in Christ as the Messiah, yet a number of them when faced with pressure and persecution were going back to Judaism. By their apostasy they were revealing that while making profession of faith, there was no possession of faith. Abiding with the family of God gives us opportunity to reinforce our faith in God. We need it with regularity. As our body needs to be fed, so does our soul require daily bread. Christ overcame Satan by wielding the Sword of Scripture. In temptation, He responded, “But He answered and said, ‘It is written, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.”’” (Matt. 4‬:‭4‬‬). 

The essentiality of exhortation is due to THE EFFICACY OF EXHORTATION. Perhaps you have heard the term,”Once saved, always saved.”  It is true, if understood as meaning, “IF saved, always saved.”  Where there is regeneration, power is provided to persevere.  Sadly, there are those who had an emotional or intellectual response to the Gospel who never had a volitional commitment to it . When the feelings faded, so did their “faith.”  Or when they seemed to embrace the facts of the Gospel in their mind, it never migrated to their heart. Well, the demons have that kind of belief—absolutely convinced in who Christ is and that He will one day cast them into hell. Yet such “belief” does not convert them, as they remain in their rebellion against God. Saving faith is when we receive Christ as Savior and Lord. We surrender our life to Him—once and for all. The reality of it is seen in that we press on and do not fall away.  In this hostile environment where we walk under the onslaught of the Devil, we need the exhortation that comes from the exposition of the Word to stand tall and stay true. 

That is what I am doing in expounding this Word—exhorting you. It is what I do when we gather as God’s people for worship as we exhort one another by “speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another in the fear of God.”(Eph. 5‬:‭19‬-‭21‬‬). 

Please hear this today and do not harden your heart!

A DIVISIVE DEMEANOR AND DOCTRINAL DEPARTURE

Hatefulness and heresy are partners in crime. The one who deviates from the faith will also potentially divide the flock. Both are deadly viruses that can infect a church until it becomes sick, or even dies! 

These make mountains out of molehills while failing to embrace the fundamentals of the faith. Instead, they take a text out of context and use it as a pretext for some theological novelty they want others to embrace. Such preach that they have received some new insight—often in a “dream,” or “vision.”  What they do is package error as enlightenment. 

Paul brands such arguments as unprofitable and useless and tells us to avoid these erroneous teachings and the evil teachers themselves —unless they repent when confronted. 

To platform such and have prolonged discussions is to elevate the doctrinal deviant to the same status as the true teachers. Immersing your mind in the study of heresy is to contaminate your own thinking. You cannot walk through a coal mine without inhaling some black dust. Do you want to drink just an ounce of chicken manure stirred in your coffee?  

For a period of time, I had a section of books in my library as examples of false teaching, but I have since thrown them away. I never read them, but what if someone saw them, and it piqued their curiosity?  Or after I died, what if someone got hold of them and wondered if I subscribed to those errors as those books were found in my library?  They went where such teaching belongs—in the trash!

At best, the study of false teaching and striving with false teachers is a waste of precious time better spent immersing oneself in the study and of Scripture and proclamation of it. A bank teller can detect counterfeit money, but not because they spend hour after hour studying counterfeiters and their craft. Rather, they handle real currency continually and thus when a forgery comes their way, they spot it right away.

Study the Scriptures. Listen to and learn from faithful men. “New” truth is likely ancient error repackaged.  Don’t waste time sorting through garbage. Toss it and turn to the Truth.

GOD REQUIRES FAITHFULNESS

In Flickering Lamps, the late Henry Blackaby shared these words:

A truth I have based my ministry upon is this: If you are faithful in a little, God will give you more (Matt. 25:21, 23). God will not hold you accountable for what you do not have. But, He will make you answerable for what you did with what He gave you. What is the best way to have more? Be faithful with the little you already have! The key, of course, is faithfulness. 

In the parable of the talents, the master gave one servant five talents, another three talents, and a third servant one talent. The servants with five and three talents immediately invested what they had been given. Investing is risky; it involves uncertainty. Yet those two servants knew their master well. They understood that he despised timidity and expected growth. They invested aggressively and doubled their funds. When they showed their master what they had accomplished with the resources given to them, he declared, “Well done, good and faithful slave! You were faithful over a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Share your master’s joy!” (Matt. 25:21). 

The servant who received one talent, however, took the opposite approach. He feared he might lose the only talent he had. What if something unexpected happened? Better to play it safe by burying the talent and doing nothing. His focus was on his fear of loss, rather than on hope of gain. Ironically, in trying to save what he had, he lost it. The master declared: “You evil, lazy slave!” (Matt. 25:26). The little he had was removed from him. The master then declared, “Throw this good-for-nothing slave into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth” (Matt. 25:30). 

Every church has at least one talent. The Head of the Church has entrusted something to every congregation. The onus is on us to invest our resources in what matters to the master. At the day of accounting, there will be no rewards for having merely preserved what we have. Instead, the heroes will be those who took what their master gave them and invested it so they could earn the greatest possible return for their King. 

You will never make disciples of all nations if you only attempt what you think you can afford. This doesn’t mean you recklessly invest in every church growth fad that comes along. It does mean you let God set the agenda for your church and then you confidently obey His commands, understanding that God can well-afford to accomplish whatever He leads you to do. The crucial thing is not to attempt what you can afford, but what God can afford. What will Christ find when He returns to your church? (pp. 109-111, Kindle Edition)

FROM FALLOW GROUND TO FERTILE GARDEN

Hosea 10:12 commands, “Break up your fallow ground.”  The first task of the preacher is to plow up the field. The untilled soil will not receive seed and become a fertile garden until the hard ground is broken up. The truth is that some church fields are harder than others. This is what Titus encountered at Crete, and Paul does not minimize the difficulty the young preacher was facing.

But, first the Apostle provides AFFIRMATION, “To Titus, a true son in our common faith: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Savior,” (Titus 1:4). Paul has no reservation that Titus would be up to the task. He was no false teacher, but a true preacher. They might work in a different field, but they shared a common faith. Best of all—heaven’s provision was available to this man of God. There was grace—so that all the resources required would be given. Titus would lack nothing he needed. He also had mercy—even though he might face fierce foes, God would spare him from being overwhelmed by them. Titus could rest in peace—calm even in the eye of a storm. 

The man of God is to practice ORDINATION, “For this reason I left you in Crete, that you should set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in every city as I commanded you—” (Titus‬ ‭1‬:‭5‬‬). The church will be in disorder unless the preacher sets it in order. That demands leadership. Elders are given that assignment. Every church needs them. A plurality of elders is preferable to share the load and provide accountability to one another. The qualifications are listed, and without such faithful servants, there will be no fruitful soil. 

There will be the need at times for CONFRONTATION, “One of them, a prophet of their own, said, ‘Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons.’ This testimony is true. Therefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith,” (Titus‬ ‭1‬:‭12‬-‭13‬‬). Churches will ask for a resume’ from a pastoral candidate—and well they should. But, pastors had best know the bio of the church as well.  Paul is direct concerning the issues of the Cretan congregation. They are described as “liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons,” and other than that, Titus should find ministry there a piece of cake! Preaching cannot always be sweet and uplifting. There are times it demands to be stinging and humbling. The sharp spade of Scripture breaks up the fallow ground to receive the seed of the Gospel and yields a fertile garden. 

Now—stop whining and start plowing!

NEVER ALONE!

Man may abandon us, but the Master will abide with us!  We are never alone. The Lord has promised to never forsake us, (cf. Ps. 94:14; Heb. 13:5). Paul was forsaken by all his friends, (2 Tim. 4:16-18). “But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother,” Prov. 18:24). That Faithful Friend is Jesus!  Let us examine 2 Timothy 4:16-18 further. 

There is the promise of HIS PRESENCE, “But the Lord stood with me…”. It is important to note that the Lord did not merely stand near the Apostle, nor even by Paul, but “stood WITH me,” he testified. Even in the prison cell—in solitary confinement on death row—the Lord was in the midst of a dungeon’s dismal darkness to give Paul light. When taken before a human tribunal to be falsely accused and unjustly condemned by demonic hate, His Heavenly Defense Attorney stood with him to give Paul love. Remember, dear one that when you have wagging tongues testifying against you and wicked fingers pointing at you that the Lord stands with you—and that is enough!

There is then the promise of HIS POWER, “But the Lord…strengthened me…”. When we would wither and cannot weather the storm of attacks by fierce foes and sense of abandonment by false friends, a supernatural strength is imparted by our Faithful Friend. It is the power that spoke the universe into existence, with that cosmos upheld “by the word of His power,” (Heb. 1:3). The Lord hangs the stars in place—so much so that we measure the day accurately by the sun. The Lord sets the planets in their orbit—so that we determine a year by earth’s trip around the sun. Concerning His power, did we not learn this as a child in the song? It simply, yet profoundly, assures us. 

Jesus loves me! This I know,  

For the Bible tells me so; 

Little ones to Him belong; 

They are weak, but He is strong.  

No matter how overwhelming the odds against us we have Omnipotence available to us—and that is enough!

Thus we have the promise of HIS PRESERVATION, “And the Lord will preserve me…”. 

In his first imprisonment, we believe that Paul was freed, “so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear. Also I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.”  He was delivered to keep telling the story. God has a work for us to do and we will not perish one minute before that allotted time and assigned task is completed. As old George Whitefield stated it, “We are immortal until our work on earth is done.”  Never fear!

In his final imprisonment—and he had many, (cf. 2 Cor. 11:23)—Paul was fully freed, “And the Lord will deliver me from every evil work and preserve me for His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen!” He was delivered to enter the glory!  His death was not the end, but an entrance. His life did not conclude, but would commence on a higher plane in that heavenly place! As the executioner’s sword would fall and his head would go one way and his body another—his soul would soar through space to an infinitely better place. 

However difficult the place we find ourselves in before we leave this world, the servant of God knows there is the most delightful place that has been prepared by the Master Carpenter for us, (cf. Jn. 14:1-3). 

To be forever with Jesus—that is enough!

I think of the old hymn:

1 I’ve seen the lightning flashing

And heard the thunder roll,

I’ve felt sin’s breakers dashing,

which tried to conquer my soul;

I’ve heard the voice of my Savior,

He bid me still fight on:

He promised never to leave me,

Never to leave me alone.

 

2 The world’s fierce winds are blowing–

Temptation’s sharp and keen;

I have a peace in knowing

My Savior stands between;

He stands to shield me from danger

When all my friends are gone:

He promised never to leave me,

Never to leave me alone.

 

3 When in affliction’s valley 

 I tread the road of care,

 My Savior helps me carry

 My cross so heavy to bear;

 Though all around me is darkness

 And earthly joys are flown,

 My Savior whispers His promise:

 Never to leave me alone.

 

4 He died on Calv'ry's mountain,

 For me they pierced His side,

 For me He opened that fountain,

 The crimson, cleansing tide;

 For me He’s waiting in glory

 Upon His heavenly throne:

 He promised never to leave me,

 Never to leave me alone.

 

Refrain:

 No, never alone,

 No, never alone;

 He promised never to leave me,

 Never to leave me alone:

 No, never alone,

 No, never alone:

 He promised never to leave me,

 Never to leave me alone.

That is enough—MORE THAN ENOUGH!

THE GREAT VALUE OF GODLY LEADERS

Paul instructed Titus to seek godly leaders and install them in the churches. “For this reason I left you in Crete, that you should set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in every city as I commanded you—” (Titus‬ ‭1‬:‭5‬‬)

John Maxwell says it this way, “Everything rises and falls on leadership.” Godly leaders are good leaders and the question is not, “Can the church afford to call a pastor?” The issue is, “Can we afford not to?”  For this is a matter of obedience to God—He has commanded it. He will not bless our disobedience.

Henry Blackaby testified: 

Many churches say, “As soon as we have the money in the bank, we’ll … start that mission church … call that pastor … hire a children’s director.” Congregations have waited for years to obey what God told them. They might consider their behavior financially prudent. God calls it disobedience. 

I found that as we enlisted pastors for our various missions, God led us to successful leaders who were enjoying thriving ministries. Many took a cut in pay to become a mission pastor, but they were given an immense vision! They were also provided the freedom and support to pursue God’s purposes. As a result, we enlisted outstanding leaders who experienced God producing amazing results. 

When churches are small or declining, they often assume they cannot afford to recruit strong leaders. The problem with this thinking is that it prompts churches to either choose not to move forward with what God is telling them, or to settle for weak leadership. The truth is that when you are suffering decline, you can’t afford the consequences of enlisting ineffective leaders. (Flickering Lamps, p.99, Kindle edition)

If an elder is a good leader, then he will reach enough people who will more than fund his compensation. There are some men who are willing to labor in a secular job while also leading in the church. We had great lay leaders who had recently “retired,” but still had much to give to the Lord’s work. These can be set aside as elders. 

It is really a matter of faith. Will we trust God to provide as we step out in obedience? “God’s work done in God’s way will never lack God’s supply.” So said the great missionary Hudson Taylor.  That has been my experience throughout nearly fifty years of Gospel ministry. The Lord enabled me to care for a large family and lead His church and we never lacked what we needed to do so.

NEVER TOO POOR BUT MAYBE TOO RICH

In Revelation 2-3, the letters to the churches of Smyrna and Philadelphia show the apparent woes these congregations were facing. Christ speaks of Smyrna’s “poverty,” (2:9) and intense persecution, (v. 10)  Yet, they were spiritually, “rich,” (v. 9)  Philadelphia only had “a little strength,” (3:8), but a large opportunity—fruitful because faithful. You can never be too poor to be used by God.

On the other hand, you may be too rich. The church at Laodecia boasted in their wealth, (3:14-22). Christ, however condemned them for their spiritual poverty. He basically said, “You make me sick.”

Henry Blackaby builds on this truth:

Many congregations that once were thriving have since been reduced to a handful. Christ would say of these churches, “… you say, ‘I’m rich; I have become wealthy, and need nothing,’ and you don’t know that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked” (Rev. 3:17). When churches like the one in Laodicea refuse to heed God’s warnings, they will eventually be forced to admit the harsh reality of their spiritual poverty. The truth is, God can lead any church to a vibrant future. However, He requires churches to humble themselves and seek His direction. If you will do this, there will never be a need you face for which God does not have a generous supply. …

When you serve in a small church, you are constantly reminded of your dependence on God. You lack everything! You need more people, more money, more equipment, more volunteers, more leaders, and more musicians. Being continually reminded of what you don’t have is not necessarily a bad thing, as long as you don’t allow your poverty to determine your ministry. Your church’s ability to minister is never limited by your resources; it is driven by God’s provision. (Blackaby, Henry and Richard; Flickering Lamps, p. 96, Kindle edition)

You can never be too poor for God to use your church, but maybe too rich!  Trust Him whose name is Yahweh Yireh meaning, “The LORD Will Provide,” (Gen. 22:14, CSB).  

OPEN YOUR EYES!

From Flickering Lamps by Henry Blackaby:

OPEN YOUR EYES! 

Paul prayed for the church at Ephesus that “the eyes of your heart may be enlightened so you may know … what is the immeasurable greatness of His power to us who believe, according to the working of His vast strength … And He put everything under His feet and appointed Him as Head over everything for the church, which is His body …” (Eph. 1:18-19, 22). The problem is not that small churches have few resources. The issue is that many churches fail to recognize the enormous power that is readily at their disposal. If churches would open their spiritual eyes to see the immensity of God’s power that is fully available to them, we would experience revival in our day. 

Our church had spent too many years focusing on what it could or couldn’t do. I taught our people to watch for God’s powerful working in our midst. Whenever we recognized God at work, we would join Him. (pp. 76-77, Kindle version)

Last night gave me a classic example of this. 

Mark and Cherry Brumbelow shared how God had stirred their hearts in a small country church—Grace Baptist—in Wild Peach, Texas. 23 members, mostly senior adults, with no big money givers sensed that God was leading them to pack 500 shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child. It had been a challenge for them to pack 43 the previous year, along with the money it took to ship them. This would require a miracle—and God came through as they did 532!

The church has not seen mission support drop in other areas, and they have seen the tiny flock grow to around 55 in attendance—not a megachurch, but having a mega-impact! Last year they surpassed 100,000 shoeboxes, and now have their sights set on 119,000!

It is not about making a child happy with Christmas toys—though that happens. It is not for giving some basic provision to a family, though they do. It is about sharing the Gospel. Operation Christmas Child estimates around 10 people are impacted by every shoebox. If 1/4th of those respond to the Gospel, then this small flock in rural Texas has been responsible for around ONE MILLION souls coming to Christ!

Humanly, that is impossible—BUT WITH GOD ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE!  Let us seek His direction and then trust His provision. Who knows what might happen in Bethel, Cruso, Dutch Cove, or some other location that people outside of Haywood County have never heard of before!

Will we stop looking back at our traditions, stop looking around at our imitations, and look up for God’s direction?  I am praying the Lord to give us an audacious faith!  Seek the Lord. Listen to His voice. Do not come up with your plan and ask God to bless it, for He is not obligated to do so. Find out what His plan is and as you pray and respond with faith and obedience, He will bless and accomplish His will!

TURNING POINT

 This is the manuscript of my message on Acts 6:8-15 delivered at at Bethel Baptist Church, Canton,NC on 9/14/25)

There have been events in American history that marked turning points. There were the gunshots at Bunker Hill that was significant in America’s fight for independence. There was the cry, “Remember the Alamo,” where men like Davy Crockett and Jim Bowie were martyrs for freedom. There was the firing on Ft. Sumter that began the Civil War. There was the call, “Remember Pearl Harbor,” as America’s rallying cry in WW2. This past week, reminded us of the solemn events of 9/11 and the terror attack on America. Last week also horrified us as Iryna Zarutska was brutally stabbed to death in Charlotte, NC. She had fled from the bloody war in the Ukraine to what she thought would be a safe place and fresh start, only to have a criminal who had been arrested 14 times, kill her. It was a wake-up call to a broken justice system that coddles criminals and fails law-abiding citizens. Then, on Wednesday our world was rocked when Charlie Kirk was assassinated. He was a courageous Christian conservative communicator who was having a real impact, particularly on young people—summoning them to stand for faith and freedom. A single bullet fired from a deranged 22 year old ended the life of a 31 year old, leaving behind a wife and two young children. The organization he founded was called “Turning Point, USA.”  I believe his murder was a turning point. I do not see how this nation and the church in America can be the same. I believe there is either going to be a turning to God in revival or a turning against God in rage. It remains to be seen which—and a lot of that depends on us. Charlie Kirk was a martyr for his faith. He was not the first and he will not be the last. Jesus told us that to follow Him was to take up the cross. We are summoned to walk the Calvary Road. Stephen was the first martyr. We will focus on his story today and think about what it means to us. It was a turning point, and today may be for you. 

1. Stephen’s life was marked by FULNESS, (6:8-15). Here we have a description of Stephen. 

• He was full of faith, (v. 8a). Fear writes its message in deep lines of worry on our face. But, faith can be seen in our countenance as well. We display serenity in adversity, a courage in opposition, a confidence in crisis, and radiate light in the darkness, (v. 15). We may be tempted to surrender to fear at the hostility we face from the world. It will paralyze us. But, faith will energize us. It is contagious and inspires others to stand. Charlie Kirk was unafraid to march onto a college campus and take on all challengers in debate. He did it with respect, yet resolve. Too many of us hide inside the church house, and do not take the Gospel beyond the walls. 
• He was full of power, (v. 8b). This was not fleshly effort but spiritual power. Strength streamed from the Spirit of God within Stephen. There should be something in my life that can only be explained by the presence of Jesus in me. The magnitude of our mission is too large for us, but with God all things are possible. Paul put it, “I can do all things though Christ who strengthens me,” (Phil. 4:13). May the Lord deliver us from effeminate, squishy religion and give us spines of steel to stand!
• He was full of wisdom, (v. 9-10). Stephen spoke with such wisdom that the critics were confounded. The wisdom of God is found in the Word of God. As you read Stephen’s message, you find it rooted in a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. God has given us the answers to life’s questions, the solutions to life’s problems. He has given us a message of hope that people desperately need to hear. That is why masses of people—and especially the young, would show up at a Charlie Kirk event. Maybe they would come to our churches, if we offered the the same hope! Give them the Word of God; take them deep into the Scriptures. 
• He was full of heaven, (v. 11-15). This guy was “out of this world!”  His body may have been on earth, but his heart was in heaven. This registered on his face. His passion was for Jesus and he lived for eternity. That is the people who make a difference in the world. Do we really believe what we say we believe?  Young people see through phonies. They can spot a fake a mile away. God give us a face that radiates with the glory of God because we spend so much time with Him!

2. Stephen’s life was not only characterized by fulness, but by FEARLESSNESS, (7:1-53). In this chapter we move from the description of Stephen to the defense of Stephen. There are three basic arguments in defense of his faith that are fearlessly presented. 

• He points to the sovereignty of God, (7:1-8). In sovereign grace, God chose Abraham, called him out of idolatry, and entered a covenant relationship with him. Stephen knew that God was sovereign and supreme. All things are in His control and He does all things well—for His glory and ultimately for good. Someone who knows this can be fearless. We were shocked when hearing of Charlie Kirk’s death. But, it was no surprise to God. We are immortal until our work on earth is done. No bullet can kill us. But, when it comes our appointed time, none can save us. The issue is, “Are we ready to meet God?”  Charlie Kirk professed that he was, and we can be fearless if we know God holds us in His hands, and His will is good, acceptable, and perfect. 
• Stephen speaks of the salvation of God, (7:9-37). He rehearses how God saved His people. Notice especially verses 9-16. What man meant for evil, God meant for good. Joseph’s story illustrates that. His suffering would lead to Israel’s salvation. This is the thrust of Rom. 8:28, “For we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purpose.” Erika Kirk quoted that verse in her tear wringing, heart wrenching message the other night. She knew what had happened was bad, but  by faith trusted God to turn it to good. When man does his worst, God does his best. No greater demonstration of this has ever been than Christ on the cross—the worst of crimes as the best of men was slain, but in that God did the best of work in bringing salvation!
• Then, he fearlessly confronted them for their sin against God, (v. 38-53). Woven through Stephen’s sermon is the black thread of sin. Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers who envied him. God later gave them His Holy Law and they stubbornly rejected it and worshipped idols. Now, the demonic descendants of these depraved people assailed Stephen, (v.51-53). Stephen fearlessly confronted them. It is our duty to call out the sins of our culture and the church. Tolerance has replaced truth and we have returned to the days of the Judges “when everyone did what was right in their own eyes.”

3. Stephen was a man of fulness, fearlessness, and more—there was His FAITHFULNESS, (7:54-60). Stephen was faithful unto death. Jesus promises, “be faithful unto death and I will give you a crown of life.”  Stephen would be rewarded. His faithfulness was rooted in:

• His vision, (v. 54-56). We will be faithful in the measure in which we focus on Jesus. Ref. Heb. 12:1-3. 16 times the Bible says Jesus is at God’s right hand. 13 of those times, it says He is seated. But here Jesus is standing.  Why?  It appeared that Stephen was standing alone. But, the Lord wanted him to know that He was standing with him. I think of Paul on death row recalling this, “At my first defense no one stood with me, but all forsook me. May it not be charged against them. But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear. Also I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.” (2 Tim. 4:16-17). We stand to honor someone worthy of respect when they enter the room. Here is Jesus standing to honor his faithful servant to welcome him home. Charlie Kirk’s wife said that she believed the Lord said to Charlie, “Well done good and faithful servant.”  Don’t you want to be welcomed to heaven like that?  If you want the Lord to stand up to greet you, you better stand up for Him now!
• His victory, (v. 57-8:4). Death did not defeat him. It was a turning point for the church because it was the turning point for this man named Saul. His rage against the church was meant for bad but God turned it to good. The persecution Saul unleashed scattered the believers like seed across the region, taking the Gospel and seeing the salvation of souls and the planting of churches. Saul could never get over the angelic face of Stephen. His rage was due to what was eating away at him. His dreams were haunted by the man with a face like an angel. Saul’s head echoed with the prayers for his forgiveness that Stephen had spoken. It brought the conviction of the Holy Spirit and Saul was arrested by Jesus on his way to arrest Christians.  The antagonist would become an Apostle—we know him as Paul. Other than Jesus, no one has had a more profound impact on the church and this world than Paul. But, there would have been no missionary Paul had there not been a martyr Stephen. It was a turning point. 

Today could be the turning point in your life. 

Today you could repent of your sin and receive the Lord Jesus as your Savior. Today can be the turning point that gets you off the highway to hell and onto the road to heaven.

Today could be the turning point in your family. Charlie Kirk loved his wife and kids. He was willing to die for them. Are you willing to live for yours?

Today could be the turning point in this church, as you decide I am not going to go through the motions any more. I am going to stand up for Jesus. I am going to read my Bible and pray every day. I am going to faithfully attend church. I am going to fearlessly share my faith. 

“I have decided to follow Jesus—no turning back.” 

TO BE CONTINUED

Paul exhorts the young preacher, Timothy, to be faithful to the finish. The call of God upon his life is to be the consistent commitment he must relentlessly pursue.  Consider this text in 1 Timothy 4:12-16. 

It is a call to be AN EXEMPLARY MAN, “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity,” (v. 12). Though Timothy was a young man physically, he could be a mature man spiritually. Others would see him as he modeled godly conversation, conduct, and consecration. 

It is a charge to give AN ENCOURAGING MESSAGE, “Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the eldership.” (v. 13-14). He was to be attentive to the Word of God. He was to read the text clearly, exhort the people compellingly, and teach sound doctrine convictionally. 

This is a call to show AN EVIDENT MOVEMENT, “Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all,” (v. 15). There will not be perfection until we get to glory, but there should be progression—moving forward in faith and obedience that all can see. There is concentration on the truth and consecration to the task. 

Then, this is a charge to have AN EARNEST MANNER, “Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.” (v. 16‬‬). The man of God cannot lead others unless he first leads himself. If his devotion to doctrine and duty are not followed in an earnest manner, then he is a hypocrite and disqualified from ministry. To depart from the faith is to manifest that he is not saved, and will lead the people to hell with him. God forbid!  May we demonstrate saving grace by persevering in the faith. 

True commitment to Christ and His call will be apparent in that it is “to be continued.”

PRAYING WITH POWER

 

Praying as a ritual and prayer that is effectual are altogether different. The former is about self-righteousness, and the latter is about Kingdom mindedness. Paul tells Timothy that praying with power involves three elements. 

Powerful praying demands SANCTITY, “holy hands.”  Our hands must be clean—meaning our sinful actions have been cleansed by the blood of Christ. We are devoted to a sanctified life. God does not want to hear our petition until He has our confession. The Psalmist said, “If I regard iniquity in my heart, The Lord will not hear,” (Psalms‬ ‭66‬:‭18‬‬). Repentance removes this roadblock to receiving God’s response.

Powerful praying also requires SERENITY, “without wrath.”  Not only must I be forgiven, but I must be forgiving. Bearing malice toward another puts up a roadblock to my prayers reaching heaven. Jesus taught this to His disciples, “And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. …But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” (Matt. ‭6‬:12,‭15‬‬). Wrath will be an impediment to our intercession. There is a serenity that comes when we commend our enemies to God and let Him deal with them.

Powerful praying further needs SURETY, “and doubting.”  Faith is our confidence in God that we pray in alignment with His will to an Almighty God who is able to answer our prayer. While our hands must not be sullied by defilement and our heads not be filled with discord, neither can our hearts be consumed with doubt. Our Lord gave the promise, “Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them,” (Mark‬ ‭11‬:‭24‬‬). Man says, “I’ll believe it when I see it,” but God says, “You’ll see it when you believe it.”  This is our surety.

Now, this is not some name it and claim it, blab it and grab it prosperity gospel nonsense. Faith is rooted in the Word of God and that Word of God defines the will of God. I can have absolute assurance that if my supplication aligns with Scripture that God will be pleased to answer in His time and in His way.

Let us devote ourselves to praying with power!  What a difference that will make in us, in the church, and in all those for whom we pray!

THE SOVEREIGNTY AND SUPREMACY OF GOD’S LOVE

“God is love,” the Scripture declares, (1 John 4:16b). His love is witnessed throughout the Word and in the world. There is a sovereignty in His love as he distributes it to whomever and wherever He wills. There is a supremacy in His love as His love great and most gloriously harmonized with every other  attribute of a Holy God. Love is given by the Father, brought by the Son, and witnessed by the Spirit. Paul prays that the Lord will direct our hearts into the love of God in 2 Thessalonians 3:5a.

This is HIS LOVE EXTENDED.  The Lord directs our hearts into His love. Love is at God’s initiative. He is the fountain from which Divine love flows. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life,” (John 3:16). 

Then consider HIS LOVE EXPOUNDED. Paul is proclaiming the possibility of entering into the love of God. It is the offer of the Gospel. The church is given the mission of proclaiming it. In our preaching and teaching there must be the exposition of the Scriptures as God’s love letter to us. 

We can then have HIS LOVE EXPERIENCED. Our heart is won by His heart, and we are directed into God’s love so that His heart becomes one with our heart.  John said, “We love Him because He first loved us,” (1 John 4:19). More than a theological truth, it is an experiential joy we can know—swimming in a boundless sea of God’s pure love—high as the heavens to lift us there, deep enough to reach the most depraved, wide enough to encompass all humanity, and long enough to span eternity. 

Thus, Paul prayed, “that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height— to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.” (Eph. 3‬:‭17‬-‭19‬‬)

This calls us to HIS LOVE EXPRESSED. The root of God’s love experienced leads to the fruit of God’s love expressed. The Holy Spirit takes the love of the Father given through the Son and enables us to bear the fruit of love, (Gal. 5:22). It is not something we work up in the energy of the flesh—that is impossible—but what God works in by the power of the Spirit. That is why Paul calls upon the Lord to direct us into God’s love. 

Then, we can fulfill God’s command to love Him with all our being and to love our neighbor as ourselves. We express this love to our fellow believers and even to our enemies!  This is the mark of the Christian, as our Lord declared, “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another,” (John 13:35). 

My prayer for the people of God, as we gather this Lord’s Day, is that the Lord will direct our hearts into the love of God, and that we will exit intent to share that love with a world that desperately needs to see and hear it. 

TRIUMPHANT OVER TRIBULATION

 

The Christian will reside in a world of tribulation, yet because of Christ in us troubles need not preside over us. Jesus promised, “In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world,” (Jn. 16:33b). 

This is the very circumstance Paul addresses in 2 Thessalonians. The church was facing tribulation and they were being tested by this trouble. Yet in a trio of timeless traits, (1:3-4), the Apostle assures them they can be triumphant over tribulations—and so may we.

We can overcome by EXCEEDING FAITH, “your faith grows exceedingly.”  Faith grows as it is challenged. A faith that cannot be tested cannot be trusted. It is purified by the problems we encounter.   Peter put it, “that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ,” (1 Peter‬ ‭1‬:‭7‬‬).

John Rippon wrote of this in his beloved hymn, “How Firm a Foundation.” 

When through fiery trials thy pathway shall lie,

My grace, all sufficient, shall be thy supply;

The flame shall not hurt thee; I only design

Thy dross to consume, and thy gold to refine.

We also are victorious through EXTRAVAGANT LOVE, “the love of every one of you all abounds toward each other.”  Even as we are called to love God with all our being, we are called to love each other as we love ourselves. These encapsulate all of God’s commands for us. 

True love is extravagant. It is all about giving. John 3:16 portrays such abounding love of the Father for us: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son.”  No greater love could be displayed in the giving of the greatest gift to meet our greatest need. Love is seen to be more than a feeling, but an action. It springs from volition before it births emotion. 

Though the world hates us, we can endure in knowing God loves us.  That is tangible in how fellow believers support one another in the midst of our trials.

Further, we triumph in ENDURING HOPE, “your patience…in all your persecutions and tribulations that you endure.”  Patience is linked with hope. In the prior letter, Paul spoke of, “patience of hope,” (1 Thess. 1:3). This hope sustains us. We know that our trials are not a permanent state, but that Christ will put things right one glorious Day. We can hope for some respite here in this troubled world—an oasis in the burning desert of tribulation. Ultimately, that will be short-lived and only a foretaste as we are, “looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ,” (Titus‬ ‭2‬:‭13‬‬).

This hope gives us the strength to press on and endure. There is absolute assurance of victory in Jesus. That absolute can make us resolute.  

John Bunyan’s classic allegory, “Pilgrim’s Progress,” accurately portrays the journey of Christian from escaping the City of Destruction, the difficult journey, but finally arriving in the Celestial City. God promises triumph over tribulation.

FIRST LOVE—IS IT FERVENT OR FADING?

In the book “Flickering Lamps” by Henry and Richard Blackaby, we read this vital truth about the church at Ephesus—and the Spirit’s application for us today:

As you would expect with such a solid spiritual foundation, the Christians at Ephesus did many things well. They tested those who called themselves apostles and exposed the charlatans (Rev. 2:2). They also despised the heretical teachings of the Nicolaitans. Having been instructed by teachers such as Paul, Timothy, and John, their doctrine remained orthodox. They also refused to tolerate evil (Rev. 2:2). The church continued to labor, persevere, and endure trials such as the esteemed apostle John’s arrest. For the most part, the church’s behavior was admirable. 

The church at Ephesus must have been gratified to hear Christ commend them for so many behaviors but devastated when He declared, “But I have this against you” (Rev. 2:5). How sublime it is when Christ has no caveats in His evaluation of a church or individual! However, it is foolhardy to assume we can tolerate one sin as long as the majority of our activities are praiseworthy. It only takes one sin to make us deserving of judgment. 

What made the transgression of the Ephesian church so reprehensible was the nature of their sin: “… you have abandoned the love you had at first” (Rev. 2:4). Christ had called the Ephesian church into a personal, loving relationship with Himself. Nothing is more important than that. The Ephesian church had a solid list of exceptional behavior. They only had one shortcoming. One sin negated everything that was praiseworthy, for they had neglected what was most important. In their zeal to be doctrinally, morally, and methodologically orthodox, their hearts had shifted from their Savior. They were still working for Christ, but they were no longer devoted to Him as they once had been. They had overlooked the most important mandate of all: to love the Lord God with all of their heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30). 

Christ’s response to the church’s waning love was decisive: “Remember then how far you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. Otherwise, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place—unless you repent” (Rev. 2:5). Christ’s declaration might appear harsh. After all, the church’s conduct was generally admirable. But Christ will not tolerate a church that forgets its purpose. A church that forfeits its highest calling is in danger not only of losing its way, but more importantly, of suffering God’s judgment. The church at Ephesus had no time to lose. It needed to return wholeheartedly to its Lord. Despite its fidelity to proper doctrine, the Ephesian church was unacceptable to God. Clearly, even the most influential churches in the world can lose their way. (pp.  19-21, Kindle Version)

Doctrinally sound and missionally active churches may yet be headed for spiritual decline—if they have “left their first love.”  We need to be orthodox theologically, but as Vance Havner said, “You can be straight as a gun barrel theologically and empty as one spiritually.”  Missions and ministries will only be fruitful, if we are abiding in the Vine—in a vital love relationship with Christ—or else we may luxurious leaves, but no luscious fruit. Soon the leaves will wither and the branch is dead and removed.

Lord, rekindle the fire of fervent love for You in our churches today!

SELECTED TO SERVE

Jesus chose twelve men to follow Him. He set the model for them in His service to His Father, and mandated that they walk in His steps. We are selected to serve. It matters not what we do, we have this call as Christians. In this case, Paul was speaking to those who were bondslaves. If they saw that ultimately they were not serving men, but God, there would be a dignity bestowed upon their labor which would be transformative.

We are to serve the Lord COMPREHENSIVELY, “whatever you do.”  If you are a plumber or a pastor, a soldier or a sailor, a builder or a baker—there is no such thing as secular work. It is all spiritual service to Christ, if we are saved. We have been selected to serve.  This is comprehensive in its scope. 

We are to serve the Lord HEARTILY, “do it heartily.”  It would be a difference-maker for the preacher on Sunday morning if he would face his opportunity enthusiastically. That might impact the congregation as well!  It can be a contagious thing. It is an attitude adjustment for the employee on Monday morning that would direct him to say, “Good morning, Lord!” instead of, “Good Lord, it’s morning!” It will affect the mother who is rising in the night at a baby’s cry, if she hears this as a summons to serve Christ. Hear the Psalmist’s exhortation, “Serve the Lord with gladness,” (Ps. 100:2a). 

We are to serve the Lord EXPECTANTLY,  “as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.”  We do not work for a paycheck on earth, but a payday in eternity!  We may think ourselves underpaid for the labor we perform. We may work hard all our life and in our old age have little to show for it—we think. But, if we have been faithfully and joyfully serving Christ through that vocation, then He is watching, accounting, and will in Heaven be rewarding us for that work!

I write this on Saturday, and Sunday is coming, so let me say a special word to those who work in church. There will be some pastors who read this who will stand in a pulpit with more empty pews than expectant people tomorrow morning. They may pour their heart out and be met with a yawn from the handful of sleepy saints who are there. Someone will have prepared to direct the music and the singing will not have the energy or harmony befitting praise to God. A Sunday School teacher will have readied a lesson and maybe one or none show up to hear. Elsewhere, a small number give sacrificially to keep the lights on and the doors open. You may be the bi-vocational pastor who perspires under a hot sun Monday through Friday to inspire the people with a sermon on the Lord’s Day or you are privileged to be in a larger work, perhaps with multiple services—yet both of you collapse exhausted on Sunday evening. No matter what we do in the house of God, the Devil will have some critics there to make us feel that we are failures.

Do not forget there is One who attends our gathering who is soaking it all in, and writing it all down. Jesus is sitting in that congregation, choir loft, or classroom!  One day you can hear Him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.” (Matt. 25:21). 

The old Gospel song is a wonderful reminder:

Sometimes the day seems long,
Our trials hard to bear.
We’re tempted to complain,
to murmur and despair.
But Christ will soon appear
to catch his bride away!
All tears forever over
in God's eternal day!

It will be worth it all
when we see Jesus!
Life's trials will seem so small
when we see Christ.
One glimpse of his dear face,
all sorrow will erase.
So, bravely run the race
till we see Christ. (Esther Kerr Rusthoi)

In a few minutes I plan to mow my lawn and later review my sermon to the glory of God!

A PETITION FOR PERCEPTION

Over and again, we find Paul recording his passion for the people of God in his petitions offered for them. In Colossians 2:2-3, we hear his prayer for the churches of Colossae and Laodecia. His plea is for their perception of God—His ways, His will, and His work. 

His prayer is for them to have encouragement in the great realities of God. To know Him and experience the Infinite One is to drink from a fountain that flows forever. What could be more fulfilling?

He pleads for them to be enmeshed in the glorious love of God—hearts knit together with love for Christ and His church. Being in union with the Lord enables us to be bound to one another.

His petition is for them to be educated in the grand mystery of God. 

Here is the source of this mystery. This truth once hidden during the Old Testament is now unveiled in the New Testament—fully revealed in the person of Christ. To see Him is to see God. To hear Him is to hear God. To know Him is to know God. 

This leads to the scope of this mystery. The Apostle speaks of “full assurance,” and “all the treasures.”  These come to us in theological instruction—that is “understanding” and “knowledge.”  These truths inform our thoughts and inspire our zeal. This leads to practical application—“wisdom.”  This is truth that informs and inspires us to go beyond what we know to how we live. It impacts our head, heart, and hands.

As a preacher, I need to be praying this for my congregation. As a member of the church, you ought to be seeking to perceive this reality in the revelation of God in Christ. May this Lord’s Day find the pulpits proclaiming the great treasures of truth and the pews filled with eager listeners soaking it in, intent to live it out!

WHOSE CHURCH IS IT?

I was told a story years ago of a fellow in the Burnsville town square who asked an old farmer, “Where is the Church of God?”  He nodded toward the First Baptist Church and said, “That is Preacher Jones’ church.”  He then pointed to the Presbyterian church, and said, “That’s Preacher Smith’s church.”  He mentioned the Methodist church and said, “That is Preacher James’ church.”  Scratching his head, he replied, “If God’s got a church around here, I don’t know where it is!”

It is incorrect for a pastor or member to speak of the church as “my church,” though we understand what they likely mean. However, if they believe it is their church, it is more than incorrect—it is iniquity!

Paul writes of Christ, “And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence.” (Col.‬ ‭1‬:‭18‬‬). 

Preacher, or Deacon, or Ladies’ Mission Leader, nobody died and left you in charge!  Jesus did die—but also arose—and He is in charge!

Consider, THE PROMINENCE OF OUR FAME. It is a natural tendency—this business of self-promotion. That is rooted in the depravity of our sin nature!  When we want to be the celebrity and think we are capable of dominating the church, it is possible we will make headlines. Yet, at the Judgment Seat of Christ, it will all prove hay, wood, and stubble to be burned into oblivion. That is—if we are saved. Such pride may indicate we are unregenerate and then we will face a worse fire!

Let us seek instead THE PREEMINENCE OF GOD’S NAME. “In all things…[that] He may have the preeminence.”  It is not about our fame, but His name. The glory of God is to be the driving force of the ministry and the devoted focus of the church. May we die to self in order to lift up Christ. Let our humiliation spotlight Christ’s exaltation. Just resign today from being the head of the church you serve.  Jesus alone is worthy of being the Head and He can run things a lot better than we can!