RADICAL SURGERY

"The Israelites, however, were unfaithful regarding the things set apart for destruction. Achan son of Carmi, son of Zabdi, son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, took some of what was set apart, and the Lord's anger burned against the Israelites." (Joshua 7:1 HCSB)

There are times when radical surgery is required. No one wants to have parts of their body removed by a surgeon, but if the diseased member will be the source of death, then it must be done. It is a last resort, of course, but at times, unavoidable.

Spiritually speaking, the church is the body of Christ and the members are parts of that body--each important and all having a function. One should be sorrowful at the prospect of any ever being "amputated" and all other treatment options should be exhausted before something so drastic takes place--but church discipline that may end in excommunication is biblical.

"It is widely reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and the kind of sexual immorality that is not even [tolerated] among the Gentiles-a man is living with his father's wife. And you are inflated with pride, instead of filled with grief so that he who has committed this act might be removed from your [congregation]. For though I am absent in body but present in spirit, I have already decided about the one who has done this thing as though I were present. When you are assembled in the name of our Lord Jesus with my spirit and with the power of our Lord Jesus, turn that one over to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so that his spirit may be saved in the Day of the Lord.

Your boasting is not good. Don't you know that a little yeast permeates the whole batch of dough? Clean out the old yeast so that you may be a new batch. You are indeed unleavened, for Christ our Passover has been sacrificed. Therefore, let us observe the feast, not with old yeast or with the yeast of malice and evil but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.

I wrote to you in a letter not to associate with sexually immoral people. I did not mean the immoral people of this world or the greedy and swindlers or idolaters; otherwise you would have to leave the world. But now I am writing you not to associate with anyone who claims to be a believer who is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or verbally abusive, a drunkard or a swindler. Do not even eat with such a person. For what [business] is it of mine to judge outsiders? Don't you judge those who are inside? But God judges outsiders. Put away the evil person from among yourselves." (1 Corinthians 5:1-13 HCSB)

Scandalous sin can be a malignant cancer, which left untreated, will decimate the body, and even kill the church. Church discipline is the process that brings health. The hope is that the sin-sick member will repent when confronted--but, if not, then stronger treatment may be unavoidable.

This New Testament truth is illustrated graphically in the Old Testament story of Achan. God had given Israel a great victory in establishing a beachhead in Canaan, when He brought down the fortress of Jericho. The people had trusted and obeyed God, winning the victory. God had also warned them that they were not to take spoils of battle--all that pertained to Jericho was under God's curse. If taken, it would be like transplanting a cancerous organ in the body--a spiritual malignancy.

God warned them, but Achan didn't listen. This led Israel to defeat. It brought Joshua to despair. It ended in Achan's death. It tragically spelled destruction for his home.

When tempted to sin, Satan's enticing words are, "Just one bite--how bad can it be?" Just one nibble and the world fell under the curse of sin. Achan reasoned that this was only a small thing, "When I saw among the spoils a beautiful cloak from Babylon, 200 silver shekels, and a bar of gold weighing 50 shekels, I coveted them and took them. You can see for yourself. They are concealed in the ground inside my tent, with the money under the cloak." (Joshua 7:21 HCSB) It was a small amount, but a significant sin--covetousness, idolatry--defiance against God that led to defeat. Until the cancer was removed, the strength of the army would not be restored. When it was, then victory was regained.

How many of God's people today have bought into the devil's lie that sin doesn't matter? Just this little thing tolerated--yet, the implications can be far-reaching. How many churches fail to achieve the victories God has for them because they do not confront Achan?

There is a process, set in place by Jesus. Here is what He said the steps in confronting sin should be:

"If your brother sins against you, go and rebuke him in private. If he listens to you, you have won your brother. But if he won't listen, take one or two more with you, so that by the testimony of two or three witnesses every fact may be established. If he pays no attention to them, tell the church. But if he doesn't pay attention even to the church, let him be like an unbeliever and a tax collector to you. I assure you: Whatever you bind on earth is already bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth is already loosed in heaven. Again, I assure you: If two of you on earth agree about any matter that you pray for, it will be done for you by My Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there among them." (Matthew 18:15-20 HCSB)

There are those who want to "tattle" to the preacher instead of talking to the offender in private. That amounts to glorified gossip. If you know the sin, then you should prayerfully, lovingly go to the one who has failed and seek to restore them. Paul used terms of medical treatment (setting a bone) to describe the gentle, skillful manner of reaching out to sinning saints, "Brothers, if someone is caught in any wrongdoing, you who are spiritual should restore such a person with a gentle spirit, watching out for yourselves so you also won't be tempted." (Galatians 6:1 HCSB)

If, after repeated efforts to lead them to repentance fail, then one should get one or two other believers to go with them. This increases the pressure and impresses on the offender the seriousness of their sin. Those brothers or sisters may also get through in ways that we cannot. It is better not to involve the elders--pastors and deacons--at this point, as they are leaders and representatives of the church as a whole. The intent is to bring the person to full spiritual health and a place of service in the body. The wider it is known, especially by one preaching to them each week, the more difficult it may be for them to deal with their shame. But, again--after sustained attempts to bring them to restoration--it may require the involvement of the church leadership, and ultimately disciplinary action on behalf of the church as a whole. Even, in that the motivation remains healing--and bringing them to repentance and reconciliation with the church. Sadly, it seems that many when exposed, choose to walk away. It isn't true of every church drop-out, certainly not the case of every person who moves their membership, but sometimes does happen when they do not want to confess sin themselves or be confronted by others. They "excommunicate" themselves.

We don't stone people to death under the New Covenant. But, neither in the name of tolerance should we allow open, scandalous sin like that in Corinth to be publicly practiced and not dealt with. You may know something that should be confronted. Don't pick up the phone and call me. Pick up the phone and call the backslider. Humbly, lovingly, prayerfully begin the Biblical process of bringing them back, one step at a time. But, the church must be prepared to do radical surgery, if need be. Few churches today are willing to consider the possibility. Perhaps that is one reason for our lack of impact on society. Disobedience unchallenged becomes defiance unchecked and defeat unchanged.

FOLLOWING OUR COMMANDER

"When Joshua was near Jericho, he looked up and saw a man standing in front of him with a drawn sword in His hand. Joshua approached Him and asked, 'Are You for us or for our enemies?'

'Neither,' He replied. 'I have now come as commander of the Lord's army.'

Then Joshua bowed with his face to the ground in worship and asked Him, ''What does my Lord want to say to His servant?'

The commander of the Lord's army said to Joshua, 'Remove the sandals from your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy.' And Joshua did so." (Joshua 5:13-15 HCSB)

The Civil War lasted much longer than it should have. The North had dramatic advantages in firepower and manpower. But, there was one thing they did not have--particularly in the early days when the Yankee army might have crushed the rebellion--they did not have better leaders. It was not until attrition took its toll on the South--one thinks of the death of Stonewall Jackson--that the tide turned and the Blue tide irresistibly rolled over the Confederacy. Lincoln also found some leaders who would win on the battlefield--notably Ulysses S. Grant--and victory was won. Commanders make a difference--and can make a huge difference.

In spiritual warfare, the leader makes all the difference. Jesus is our commander. So long as we follow Him, we have victory. He is undefeated, having never lost a battle, and is unconquerable, being incapable of losing a battle!

Joshua was able to lead the people of God into the conquest of Canaan because God had taken the field! He encounters Jesus in one of those dramatic, Old Testament appearances, when the second Person of the Trinity shows up with a drawn sword. Joshua, in seeing this imposing figure, wants to know, "Whose side are you on?" The answer basically was, "I didn't come to take sides; I came to take over!" So, Joshua bows to his Commander and the Lord will lead them to victory.

There are four keys to this winning warfare which are found in Joshua, chapters three through six. Following the Commander involves: consecration, commemoration, circumcision and conquest.

The Lord led them in CONSECRATION. "Joshua told the people, 'Consecrate yourselves, because the Lord will do wonders among you tomorrow.' " (Joshua 3:5 HCSB)

Being in war isn't a hobby, it is a total commitment. God expected full obedience to His orders. The Israeli men had been enlisted and equipped to engage the enemy. It was time to move out. God symbolically showed that He was leading the way in that the Ark of the Covenant would precede the army. The priests would bear this sacred chest which represented God's presence with His people. When their feet touched the Jordan, the River stopped flowing, even though it was at flood stage, and the Hebrews marched across on dry ground. As their forefathers had exited Egypt through the miracle at the Red Sea, they enter Canaan similarly. God had promised Joshua that He would be with him as He was with Moses, and here was a confirmation. Just remember that whatever obstacles are in your path today, God hasn't changed. Consecrate yourself in total commitment, move forward and He will make a way!

The Lord led them in COMMEMORATION. "After the entire nation had finished crossing the Jordan, the Lord spoke to Joshua: ''Choose 12 men from the people, one man for each tribe, and command them: Take 12 stones from this place in the middle of the Jordan where the priests are standing, carry them with you, and set them down at the place where you spend the night.'...and he said to the Israelites, 'In the future, when your children ask their fathers, "What is the meaning of these stones?" you should tell your children, "Israel crossed the Jordan on dry ground." For the Lord your God dried up the waters of the Jordan before you until you had crossed over, just as the Lord your God did to the Red Sea, which He dried up before us until we had crossed over. This is so that all the people of the earth may know that the Lord's hand is mighty, and so that you may always fear the Lord your God.' " (Joshua 4:1-3, 21-24 HCSB)

The morale of an army is a significant factor in achieving victory. What Israel had already experienced would strengthen their confidence that God was with them. These memorial stones were a monument to God's power which would be an encouragement to the enlistment of new recruits in the future. As old soldiers leave the battlefield, fresh troops would fill the ranks. It is vital to victory that when we face our fierce foe that we do so in a faith that is anchored in history--to recall what God has done in the past conflict that we might trust Him in the present crisis. Are we telling these "war stories" to challenge a younger generation? This is our commission from Christ our Commander (see Matthew 28:18-20).

The Lord led them in CIRCUMCISION. "At that time the Lord said to Joshua, 'Make flint knives and circumcise the Israelite men again.'... Though all the people who came out were circumcised, none of the people born in the wilderness along the way were circumcised after they had come out of Egypt." (Joshua 5:2, 5 HCSB)

This might seem a strange way to prepare men for battle--to wound them before the war started! Indeed, they would pause before the fight to allow the men to heal. What was the point? Circumcision was the sign of the covenant--it was a constant reminder that the Jews belonged to God. It was a symbol of being set apart for Him. This was their insignia and meant total allegiance. There was to be nothing held in reserve. D.L. Moody was challenged by the words, "The world has yet to see what God will do with and for and through and in and by the man who is fully consecrated to Him." Moody purposed to be such a man--and the evangelist's life had worldwide impact that continues to be felt today, over a century after his death. Are you all in? A half-hearted warrior will soon be a casualty!

Ultimately, the Lord led them in CONQUEST. "The Lord said to Joshua, 'Look, I have handed Jericho, its king, and its fighting men over to you.' " (Joshua 6:2 HCSB)

The outcome of the battle isn't determined by the strategy in the war room as important as that may be. It is determined by the soldiers on the battlefield. They must follow their commander, if victory is to be secured. It is evident that the conquest of Jericho was not because of the superiority of Israel's army but the superiority of Israel's God. The walls of Jericho might have withstood the assault of the Hebrew troops, but they were like a sandcastle before a tidal wave when God marched before His army! No wonder the Apostle Paul could say, "No, in all these things we are more than victorious through Him who loved us." (Romans 8:37 HCSB) It isn't even close!

THE ESSENTIALS OF EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP

"After the death of Moses the Lord's servant, the Lord spoke to Joshua son of Nun, who had served Moses: 'Moses My servant is dead. Now you and all the people prepare to cross over the Jordan to the land I am giving the Israelites.' " (Joshua 1:1, 2 HCSB)

Several years ago, I picked up a copy of a book by Bill Hybels called, "Courageous Leadership." It was at a juncture of my life when there were some important decisions that needed to be made--and as is usually the case, the more significant the decision, the more profound the implications--for good or bad, depending on the outcome. In reading the book, I was reminded of important Scriptural principles, like those we see in Joshua. So, whether you lead a team at church, or have a supervisory role on your job, or guide your children in the home--all of us have influence on someone, and that is the essence of leadership. Someone is following you. The question is whether we are being effective. There are several essentials for effectiveness in leadership seen in Joshua.

We must be a person of VISION.

"After the death of Moses the Lord's servant, the Lord spoke to Joshua son of Nun, who had served Moses: 'Moses My servant is dead. Now you and all the people prepare to cross over the Jordan to the land I am giving the Israelites. I have given you every place where the sole of your foot treads, just as I promised Moses. Your territory will be from the wilderness and Lebanon to the great Euphrates River-all the land of the Hittites-and west to the Mediterranean Sea.' " (Joshua 1:1-4 HCSB)

The leader must see where to go. Otherwise, it will be the tragedy of the blind leading the blind, with both ending up in a ditch--as Jesus warned the spiritual leaders of His day. Importantly, the vision Joshua had was birthed in the heart of God, and not a product of his own ambition. Seek God until His will is clear--and when you hear from Him, share that with the people and get "buy-in" from them (read Joshua 1:10-18).

The effective leader must be a person of VALOR.

"No one will be able to stand against you as long as you live. I will be with you, just as I was with Moses. I will not leave you or forsake you. Be strong and courageous, for you will distribute the land I swore to their fathers to give them as an inheritance. Above all, be strong and very courageous to carefully observe the whole instruction My servant Moses commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right or the left, so that you will have success wherever you go. ...Haven't I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:5-7, 9 HCSB)

The leader must have courage to go. This is the recurring message God was indelibly impressing on Joshua. Leadership requires a spine of steel. Courage is contagious--and so is cowardice. Joshua could well recall how as a young man, he and Caleb had gone behind enemy lines on a reconnaissance mission--along with ten others. Those ten then put the people in a panic with the result that they died in the wilderness. This time things would be different. Joshua's valor would inspire Israel's warriors to be valiant.

Effectiveness in leadership requires VIRTUE.

"Above all, be strong and very courageous to carefully observe the whole instruction My servant Moses commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right or the left, so that you will have success wherever you go. This book of instruction must not depart from your mouth; you are to recite it day and night so that you may carefully observe everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in whatever you do." (Joshua 1:7, 8 HCSB)

The leader must demonstrate the qualities worth following. Joshua had submitted himself to obedience to God's commands and could authentically and authoritatively call on his followers to do the same. Character flaws will undermine confidence in the most competent of leaders. It is indispensable for those leading in the church. God can use a crude instrument--so long as it is a clean instrument!

The leader God uses will have the essential understanding of VALUE.

"They answered Joshua, 'Everything you have commanded us we will do, and everywhere you send us we will go. We will obey you, just as we obeyed Moses in everything. And may the Lord your God be with you, as He was with Moses. Anyone who rebels against your order and does not obey your words in all that you command him, will be put to death. Above all, be strong and courageous!' " (Joshua 1:16-18 HCSB)

The leader must know how to get where he needs to go. Joshua knew how to separate the essential from the extraneous, what was primary and what was peripheral. He had a laser-like focus and led the Jews to value the same things. Clear communication keeps everyone moving in the same direction. It is the difference between the military marching and a mob meandering.

Leaders who get the job done are people of VIGILANCE.

"Be very strong and continue obeying all that is written in the book of the law of Moses, so that you do not turn from it to the right or left and so that you do not associate with these nations remaining among you. Do not call on the names of their gods or make an oath to them; do not worship them or bow down to them. Instead, remain faithful to the Lord your God, as you have done to this day.

The Lord has driven out great and powerful nations before you, and no one is able to stand against you to this day. One of you routed a thousand because the Lord your God was fighting for you, as He promised. So be very diligent to love the Lord your God for your own well-being. For if you turn away and cling to the rest of these nations remaining among you, and if you intermarry or associate with them and they with you..." (Joshua 23:6-12 HCSB)

The leader must not be detoured from the path. Here is Joshua years later, challenging the people to follow through on their victories. They were not to deviate from God's direction. It is easy to get side-tracked. Leaders are on guard against this.

Ultimately, the mark of successful leadership is VICTORY.

" 'Therefore, fear the Lord and worship Him in sincerity and truth. Get rid of the gods your fathers worshiped beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt, and worship Yahweh. But if it doesn't please you to worship Yahweh, choose for yourselves today the one you will worship: the gods your fathers worshiped beyond the Euphrates River or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living. As for me and my family, we will worship Yahweh.'

The people replied, 'We will certainly not abandon the Lord to worship other gods! For the Lord our God brought us and our fathers out of the land of Egypt, out of the place of slavery, and performed these great signs before our eyes. He also protected us all along the way we went and among all the peoples whose lands we traveled through. The Lord drove out before us all the peoples, including the Amorites who lived in the land. We too will worship the Lord, because He is our God.' " (Joshua 24:14-18 HCSB)

The leader must overcome difficulties along the way. Doing the right thing is seldom the easy thing. There will always be giant obstacles in the pathway of progress. Press on! Joshua did and we see the results. He directed his own steps, "As for me..." and led his family "and my family..." motivating the people "We will..." and this is victory!

Each of these attributes Joshua possessed are illustrated time and again throughout the book. As we have begun our reading in Joshua today and complete it this week, I encourage you to carefully study the text for it will afford many profitable examples of these essentials.

Pray for me--that I can be one who will walk in Joshua's sandals. This is courageous leadership--and nothing else will do in these difficult days.

TIME FOR SCHOOL

"when all Israel assembles in the presence of the Lord your God at the place He chooses, you are to read this law aloud before all Israel. Gather the people-men, women, children, and foreigners living within your gates-so that they may listen and learn to fear the Lord your God and be careful to follow all the words of this law." (Deuteronomy 31:11, 12 HCSB)

Three of the most dreaded words, a teenager ever hears, were just spoken to my son mere minutes ago: "Time for school!" I felt the same way. Now, of course, my perspective has changed. There is a recognition on my part of the necessity of education--the benefits that come to those who learn.

I suppose that's the way we feel sometimes when the clock goes off on Sunday mornings. Did you hear the story about a fellow who refused to get up, despite his wife's persistent pleas? "Get ready for church!" He rolled over and put the pillow over his head. She continued to yell up the steps, "Time for church!" Her voice was like fingernails raked across a chalkboard at that early hour. His grouchy response was, "I don't want to!" His wife said, "You have to!" He yelled, "Tell me one good reason!" She replied, "Because you are the pastor!"

Been there, done that! But, not often. Most of the time, I am eager to get to the house of God. I realize the blessings and the joys that come when I go to the house of the Lord. It is true that I have a job to do--the one day when some people think I have to work. But, I was going with eagerness to Sunday School before I became a pastor. It wasn't a job, but a joy. I had been born again--and I was like a baby craving for the milk of God's Word. His saving grace put a hunger in me that remains to this day. I must feed on the Word, and now I have matured to the place that I am privileged to feed others!

Sunday School, small groups, cell groups--whatever terminology you use and whenever or wherever you meet, this education in the Word of God is indispensable. One of the last things Moses did was to underscore this fact. When people know they are about to die, they dispense with the trivial and stress the essential. Listen up!

We need to ASSEMBLE. All Israel was to gather to be instructed in the Scripture. They gathered in the presence of the Lord. While it is true that God is everywhere, there is a particular expression of His presence that we can know when we meet with His people in anticipation of hearing from Him. Jesus said, "For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there among them." (Matthew 18:20 HCSB) God reveals Himself in His Word. All ages were to gather for instruction. From the youngest child to the oldest member, we always need, and never outgrow, the instruction of Scripture. Fundamental truths are like seed sown in a youngster's heart, which will later bear fruit. It is cultivated as we grow, and there is constant weeding and pruning as long as we live. In later years, we may start to droop and need to be "staked up" with God's promises. What I have found is that in every season of life, there is a relevant message from the Bible. Even the foreigners were to come and learn. We might equate this to the evangelistic thrust of Sunday School and the need for invitation and assimilation of the lost into our Bible studies, prayerfully trusting the Holy Spirit to use the powerful Gospel to dispel spiritual darkness and bring conviction of sin.

We must be ATTENTIVE. Moses told the Jews to listen and learn. One may be physically present in the church building and yet be mentally "out to lunch." Listening is not an easy task. Learning is not automatic. It requires effort. There is the additional barrier in that our sinful hearts are resistant to the truth, our exposure to the world's deception clouds our thinking and Satan is like an evil bird ready to swoop in and devour the seed before it can germinate. So, we are trying to hear commands from the Captain of our Salvation, while surrounded by "the fog of war." Jesus exhorted us, "Therefore take care how you listen. For whoever has, more will be given to him; and whoever does not have, even what he thinks he has will be taken away from him." (Luke 8:18 HCSB) Be prayerful, asking God to open your eyes, and be prepared by expecting the Holy Spirit to speak. Have your Bible open, pen and paper in hand, with an open mind and heart. It should be added that the teacher and preacher have a responsibility in this also. We must be engaging and enthusiastic to be effective. If the communicator isn't excited about his or her subject, then we can hardly expect the audience to be. Moses prayed what every teacher needs to seek, "Let my teaching fall like rain and my word settle like dew, like gentle rain on new grass and showers on tender plants." (Deuteronomy 32:2 HCSB)

We respond with AWE. Moses said the result of hearing the Word of God would be to learn to fear the Lord. This has to do with inward transformation and is a matter of attitude. The more we hear God's Word, the closer we are drawn to Him and in the light of His holiness we see the depth of our sinfulness. We are gripped by the majesty of God's nature, are captivated by the wonder of His person and are brought to brokenness before Him. If we do not learn to fear the Lord, then we may rest assured we have not encountered Him in the Word.

We respond with ACTION. This is the true test. We are not mere hearers of the Word, but become doers of it. Moses warned, "be careful to follow all the words of this law." This means that true inward transformation has occurred, for it yields outward application. You have not learned to drive by simply studying a driver's education manual, as important as that is. You have learned to drive when you can put that knowledge to work by getting behind the wheel and operating the vehicle. Some think that to have a head full of Bible facts is the sum total of Christianity (and we do want heads full of truth). It is hearts full of love and hands full of righteous deeds that are the product of real learning.

So, get ready teacher. Be prepared student. Study preacher! Plan to attend church member. In a few hours, the alarm will signal, "Time for school!"

DECISION 2012

"I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you today that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Choose life so that you and your descendants may live..." (Deuteronomy 30:19 HCSB)

"Decision 2012" is a banner we have seen on TV news programs, and will be viewed by millions, countless times, from now until November. It is an election year--and a major choice will be made as Americans go into the voting booth and cast a ballot for President. That is one of the most important votes we have ever made.

Ultimately, there is a bigger decision, however. It involves blessing or cursing. The implications issue in life or death. How will we vote?

That is the choice God presented to Israel. They should have known He meant business; they had seen their parents die in the desert for their foolish disobedience. God allows these spiritual shipwrecks to remain visible to us on our journey that we would not crash upon the reef of unbelief and sink in the sea of sin. God doesn't fool around. But, Israel did.

The people of God chose a curse instead of a blessing. While there have been periods of obedience to God's principles that have brought down showers of blessing on the Jews, their history is filled with disobedience and the resulting horrors that have come to the nation. We reap what we sow.

America's fate will be no different. This good land God has given us--the privileges we have enjoyed--have been due to His grace and the choice of our founders to establish our country on the truths of Scripture. No nation has known such Divine favor as the United States. We became, in rather short order, the most powerful and prosperous people ever to walk this planet. So God promised and we have experienced.

Now, that is changing. There is a certain grim foreboding that we feel as we see what looms in the future. A storm is about to break. We have watched the dark clouds gathering. We have seen intermittent flashes of lightning and heard occasional distant rumbles of thunder. Faithful preachers of the Word of God have been sounding a warning for decades, like the prophets of old--and like those prophets, their warnings are mocked and their pleas ignored.

Blessing or cursing; life or death? God--this God so patient, merciful and kind--longs for us to choose life! He finds no pleasure in bringing down wrath. It does not have to be. We can repent and return to God! If we do, then once more America will be crowned with good from sea to shining sea. But, if we don't seek Him urgently, out of those seas, tsunamis of terror are going to flood the land. It's our choice. This is "Decision 2012."

ALL ALONE
“[Christ] who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high…” (Hebrews 1:3)

There is no one like Jesus. He stands alone above all men—towering above all those whom the world accord with greatness—higher than the heavens are above the earth, He is of infinite worth. There is none like Him.

All alone of any man, can Jesus Christ claim to be the very brightness of God’s glory. God shares His glory with none other—it is the essence of all God is—and yet, Jesus is unique in that He claims that glory—he being not only man, but God Himself.

All alone of any man, can Jesus attest to being the express image of God’s person. He said that to see Him was to see the Father. In perfection, He reflected the nature and attributes of Deity. To look into the face of Christ is to gaze into the face of God.

All alone of any man, does Jesus profess to upholding all things by the word of His power. That same power which spoke the worlds into existence, now keeps them in their orbit. The matter, which came together, when He said, “Let there be…and there was” now remains together by the sheer voice of command from Christ. The very molecular structure of the universe would unravel without His word!

All alone, Jesus brought salvation and by Himself purged our sins. No other blood was precious enough to pay the price for sin. No other blood was pure enough to be worthy. No other blood was powerful enough to purge condemnation from our record. He hung on that cross alone. None would aid Him. Friends forsook Him, followers denied and betrayed Him, family was powerless to help Him and the Father—oh, the incomprehensible agony—the Father rejected Him.! All alone, suspended between heaven and earth on a cursed tree—as if neither earth nor heaven would have Him—Jesus dies for us—all alone.

All alone, sealed in a sepulcher of stone—shut up in the darkness of the tomb—His lifeless corpse reclines in death. All alone, He steps into Hades, the world of the dead, looks across the abyss where demons are chained and proclaims His triumph over them. All alone, He seizes the keys of death, hell and the grave. All alone, He unlocks the door and empties paradise of the souls of the Old Testament saints, including the repentant thief who has died on Golgotha also that day. All alone, Christ escorts these believers into God’s presence, their debt of sin paid in full, the righteousness of their faith secured.

All alone, Jesus breaks the bonds of death—shattering them and destroying death’s sting forever! All alone He rises from the dead and bursts from the tomb! All alone hope that was nailed to a cross, locked up in a grave, blooms in fragrance of eternal life—hope unconquerable, love unquenchable, joy unspeakable!

All alone, He ascended back to the glory from which He had come, and sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high. He alone is qualified to occupy that place! Jesus, Son of God—our Savior—King of kings and Lord of lords! He stands alone in eternity—where He will be worshipped forever and ever—for He alone is worthy!

8 But to the Son He says: “Your throne, O God, is forever and ever; A
scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom. ‎9 You have loved righteousness and hated lawlessness; Therefore God, Your God, has anointed You With the oil of gladness more than Your companions.” ‎10 And: “You, LORD, in the beginning laid the foundation of the earth, And the heavens are the work of Your hands. ‎11 They will perish, but You remain; And they will all grow old like a garment; ‎12 Like a cloak You will fold them up, And they will be changed. But You are the same, And Your years will not fail.” ‎13 But to which of the angels has He ever said: “Sit at My right hand, Till I make Your enemies Your footstool”? (Hebrews1:8-13)

WHEN THE VOW BREAKS

""If a man marries a woman, but she becomes displeasing to him because he finds something improper about her, he may write her a divorce certificate, hand it to her, and send her away from his house. If after leaving his house she goes and becomes another man's wife, and the second man hates her, writes her a divorce certificate, hands it to her, and sends her away from his house or if he dies, the first husband who sent her away may not marry her again after she has been defiled, because that would be detestable to the Lord. You must not bring guilt on the land the Lord your God is giving you as an inheritance." (Deuteronomy 24:1-4 HCSB)

God designed marriage to be a permanent relationship. We stand before God and make a solemn vow to be faithful to our spouse and pledge that only death will part us. No one makes us do this. It is our choice--and once that choice is made, we are committed for life.

The concession Moses gives here is an acknowledgement that while one partner may be faithful to their vows, the other may not. This impropriety, "something improper," stops short of intercourse, since that was punishable by death. Other indiscretions would be public nudity or other forms of sexual activity with someone other than your spouse. The New Testament renders this as "porneia" from which we get the word "pornographic"--a broader term, referring to a wide-range of immoral activity.

Since, we do not stone people to death for adultery, divorce is an option. If sexual infidelity is practiced, divorce is permitted. But, it should be noted that it is not commanded or commended--just conceded. Sexual sin is a violation of the marriage vows and in such a case it may be that one can divorce. Persistent, unrepentant immorality may leave a partner willing to rebuild the marriage no other option because the other spouse will not be faithful.

Even so, it was a serious matter. It should be a last resort rather than a first response. The proceeding required time, the involvement of a legal process, and once done, could not be undone--there was a finality about it. If the spouse married another, then that marriage ended by death or divorce, they could not return to their former spouse. One cannot marry, remarry, be in and out of bed with this partner and that one as though it is trivial thing. God said in one of the most fundamental truths to govern society, "You shall not commit adultery."

When the sanctity of marriage is devalued and the sacredness of sex is defiled, the fabric of society begins to unravel. We see this happening in our culture today.

In marriage, two have become one flesh. If you take two pieces of wood, and glue them together, and then try to break the bond, what happens is that you splinter the wood. In divorce, this is the painful reality, and when children are involved, they become the broken pieces. Forgiveness and reconciliation are preferable, even in the case of infidelity. The Mosaic code, far from being meant to encourage divorce, was meant to regulate it, restrict it and thus to restrain it, lest it become epidemic. That sad reality has come to America, and the church is not without fault.

We must do what we can to prepare people for marriage. The church must proclaim the Biblical pattern for marriage. Christians need to help preserve marriages through their willingness to confront and correct the unfaithful. God hates divorce (see Malachi 2:13-16). There are so many consequences, so much hurt.

Now, we recognize that one partner can do all they can, and the other spouse may choose to walk away. It is important to support the one who is faithful in the face of such pain. Someone has said that, "The church is the only army that shoots its own wounded." Let's not do that! We live in a fallen world, and even those who have failed in fidelity to their marriage vows can be forgiven and restored--if repentant. Like an egg, when it is scrambled, it may be impossible to unscramble it, but we can through grace, help people back toward God's standard. God hates divorce, but He doesn't hate divorcees. He is the Healer of broken hearts.

He is also the Healer of broken homes! I have seen the miracle of marriages restored when it seemed that love had been destroyed. It is tough, messy work, but God's power is limitless, His grace truly amazing! Is that opportunity still before you?

Whatever your past, wherever you stand at the present, run to God's arms. He is always faithful. Then, resting in the faithfulness of God, may we be true to our commitments to one another.

THE VICTORY OF FAITH

"When you go out to war against your enemies and see horses, chariots, and an army larger than yours, do not be afraid of them, for the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, is with you." (Deuteronomy 20:1 HCSB)

It has been well-said that the Christian life is not a playground, but a battleground! Our foe is fierce. His numbers are many and his power is great. God's soldier may be tempted to flee in fear. Despair brings defeat. Faith is the victory! The old general, the Apostle John put it this way, "because whatever has been born of God conquers the world. This is the victory that has conquered the world: our faith." (1 John 5:4 HCSB) Faith and fear are mutually exclusive. One cancels out the other. Trust or terror--we choose.

God knew Israel would have to face the foe of fear in the battlefield of their hearts before they would ever be willing to engage the enemy, literally. He reminded them that it wasn't the enormity of their enemy that mattered, but the greatness of their God! John also noted, "You are from God, little children, and you have conquered them, because the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." (1 John 4:4 HCSB)

Faith is a matter of focus. This is why the Lord told Israel that if they were distracted by having a new house or a new vineyard or a new bride, that they were to go home (Deuteronomy 20:5-7). If they were focused on what was behind them, they would not be able to concentrate on what was before them.

Furthermore, the Lord underscored again that a focus on the enemy that produced panic had to be purged. It is a contagious thing. "The officers will continue to address the army and say, 'Is there any man who is afraid or cowardly? Let him leave and return home, so that his brothers' hearts won't melt like his own.' " (Deuteronomy 20:8 HCSB)

If we look at the size of our opposition and compare it to our small numbers, we will run and hide--and this seems to be the case in a demoralized church that has withdrawn with a whimper. But, if we look to God and His omnipotence, then we will have the courage of conviction to bring down the strongholds of Satan! God has not called us to simply, "hold the fort" and shiver in fear as we huddle inside the church house, under siege, hoping Christ will rescue us before the enemy overwhelms us. Rather, the New Testament tells us to put on our armor (Ephesians 6:10-20) and to charge the gates of hell! Jesus promised, "And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the forces of Hades will not overpower it." (Matthew 16:18 HCSB) The kind of faith Peter exercised in confessing Christ would be the key to triumph. History affirms that those first Christian soldiers marched out, armed with truth and love, and a spiritual revolution swept the world.

Why not today? God hasn't changed. His promises haven't been rescinded. Our mandate is unaltered. The church militant will be the church triumphant!

I remind you that our battle is not against sinners, but Satan--it is a real war, but spiritual in nature. Those in sin are very much captives of the enemy. They serve at the devil's direction because they are powerless to resist Him. But, we can free them by the power of the Gospel.

There will be setbacks for sure. The struggle will be long and hard. This is war. But, the outcome is determined.

"Then I saw heaven opened, and there was a white horse. Its rider is called Faithful and True, and He judges and makes war in righteousness. His eyes were like a fiery flame, and many crowns were on His head. He had a name written that no one knows except Himself. He wore a robe stained with blood, and His name is the Word of God. The armies that were in heaven followed Him on white horses, wearing pure white linen. A sharp sword came from His mouth, so that He might strike the nations with it. He will shepherd them with an iron scepter. He will also trample the winepress of the fierce anger of God, the Almighty. And He has a name written on His robe and on His thigh:

KING OF KINGS

AND LORD OF LORDS.

Then I saw an angel standing on the sun, and he cried out in a loud voice, saying to all the birds flying high overhead, "Come, gather together for the great supper of God, so that you may eat the flesh of kings, the flesh of commanders, the flesh of mighty men, the flesh of horses and of their riders, and the flesh of everyone, both free and slave, small and great."

Then I saw the beast, the kings of the earth, and their armies gathered together to wage war against the rider on the horse and against His army. But the beast was taken prisoner, and along with him the false prophet, who had performed the signs in his presence. He deceived those who accepted the mark of the beast and those who worshiped his image with these signs. Both of them were thrown alive into the lake of fire that burns with sulfur. The rest were killed with the sword that came from the mouth of the rider on the horse, and all the birds were filled with their flesh". (Revelation 19:11-21 HCSB)

With the courage born of conviction, let us report for duty!

FINDING DIRECTION IN LIFE

"Though these nations you are about to drive out listen to fortune-tellers and diviners, the Lord your God has not permitted you to do this. The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own brothers. You must listen to him." (Deuteronomy 18:14, 15 HCSB)

Yogi Berra, former Hall of Fame catcher for the New York Yankees, is renowned for his "yogi-isms" as much as his baseball skills. Some of these "yogi-isms" are:

A nickel ain't worth a dime anymore.

Always go to other people's funerals, otherwise they won't come to yours.

Baseball is ninety percent mental and the other half is physical.

He hits from both sides of the plate. He's amphibious.

I never said most of the things I said.

I wish I had an answer to that because I'm tired of answering that question.

I'm not going to buy my kids an encyclopedia. Let them walk to school like I did.

There are many more to be sure. One of my favorites is, "When you come to the fork of the road, take it."

The question is, "What fork do you take?" Yogi's quote is funny, but some of the decisions we make are very serious. It's not likely a big deal what color of socks you wear today (providing they match), but it is a major decision whom you marry or where you work. These are huge in terms of impact. Choices have consequences.

The first choice is where we look to make a choice. Do we look to the constellations or to their Creator? Will we trust in sorcery or Scripture?

It is amazing how many professing Christians consult the horoscope instead of looking into Holy Scripture. That a pagan world would do so is not surprising. But, wouldn't you think that those who attend church would know better?

God warned Israel of this folly. He told them of the dire consequences of occult practices. The Lord would not leave them without guidance. There was the promise of a prophet that would speak directly from Him. We have their writings today--they are called the Old Testament. Every book was authored by a prophet. The Apostles and their associates filled that responsibility in the writing of the New Testament. What we have is the Word of God.

I understand that every decision we need to make will not be specifically addressed in the Bible. You won't likely find a verse that tells you where to go to college or what career to pursue. Yet, these can have profound implications.

What you will find in Scripture, however, are fundamental principles that enable you to orient yourself toward God's perspective. As you set aside your will and submit to God's will, you learn through prayer, seeking godly counsel from others, looking at circumstances, asking God for wisdom that He will guide you. He has promised. The more you immerse yourself in God's Word and spend time intimately with Him in prayer, the sharper your sensitivity will be to the leading of the Spirit. In so doing, we reject the world's rationale and embrace the Word's revelation--resulting in a renewed mind. Consider this:

"Therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God." (Romans 12:1, 2 HCSB)

Psychics or prophets? Mediums or the Master? Seances or Scripture? The stars or the Sovereign? Familiar spirits or the Holy Spirit? This is a fork of the road, and you must take it. Trusting in witchcraft is the way of wickedness. Looking to the Word is the walk of wisdom.

Why would you look to the stars for guidance, when you can look higher--to the One who hung them in space?

ARE YOU READY FOR WORSHIP?

"You are to bring there your burnt offerings and sacrifices, your tenths and personal contributions, your vow offerings, and your freewill offerings, and the firstborn of your herds and flocks. You will eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice with your household in everything you do, because the LORD your God has blessed you." (Deuteronomy 12:6-7 HCSB)

The psalmist said, "I rejoiced with those who said to me, 'Let us go to the house of the LORD.' " But, he never had to face a "time-change Sunday"! While it is a wonderful thing on the first night of Daylight Savings Time to gain that extra hour of daylight, it is tough to lose the hour of sleep the night before.

Will you be on time? Will you turn in early, so you show up gladly rather than grouchy? It is important.

The commands given to Israel underscore this. At the center of their camp was the tabernacle. Wherever they travelled in their pilgrimage, they pitched their tents around the house of God. As Moses instructed them in anticipation of entering the Promised Land, where a temple would be built, he reminded them that worship would still be at the core of their experience. They were being readied to cross into Canaan, and that demanded they be ready for worship. Will we be ready for worship?

There are several requirements if we are to be ready. We must go to the place of worship. We must know the pattern of worship. We must show the preparation for worship. We must bestow the provision through worship.

WE MUST GO TO THE PLACE OF WORSHIP (Deuteronomy 12:1-14). You can worship God anywhere. You should. But, most often you won't. I hear that excuse sometimes for why people don't attend worship. They say, "When I'm in nature, I feel so much closer to God." Really? How much time do you spend focusing on the Father while fishing? How much singing to the Lord do you do while splashing in the lake? While you are hunting is heaven on your mind? The creation ought to inspire us with awe and is meant to direct us to the Creator. Our problem is that our minds, darkened by sin, begin to worship the creation itself (see Romans 1:18-25). This is why Moses forbids the Jews from going out to the hills, and under the stars, then constructing their own altars. If we spend time with the saints at the house of God engaged in corporate worship, it affords the needful corrective to our wandering hearts which tend to devise a god of our own imagination instead of the God of revelation. Father God may give way to Mother Nature, if we aren't cautious. The first commandment tells us to have no other God.

WE MUST KNOW THE PATTERN OF WORSHIP (Deuteronomy 12:15-13:18). You can't worship God anyway you want. The second commandment prohibits images in worship--not just the correct Person to worship, but the correct pattern is important. Particularly note 12:30, "Do not inquire about their gods, asking, 'How did these nations worship their gods? I'll do the same.' " God said, "You must not do the same to the LORD your God..." (v.31). Jesus taught us that the only acceptable worship is in spirit and truth (see John 4:23-24). Let us bring that kind of worship to God--nothing superficial, no sham--not ritual, but reality. The congregation has the responsibility to safeguard that only the truth of God is proclaimed. In Israel, false prophets were dealt with severely (13:1-5). It isn't a matter of one man's opinion--one can be mistaken or just have an ax to grind--but a body of believers led of the Spirit can insure truth is spoken in worship.

WE MUST SHOW THE PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP (Deuteronomy 14:1-21).

The dietary restrictions on the Jews doubtless had health reasons, but those were secondary to the main purpose--to remind them that they were to be different from the pagans. They belonged to the Lord--and that extended to every dimension of life--from outward expression (v.1-2) to inward digestion! They were not to be governed by their passions but God's precepts. To eat to live is one thing, to live to eat another. Only a people whose hands were clean could lift them to God in praise. Only those whose lips were pure could open them in prayer. One must not come to a holy God in worship carelessly, casually--but reverently. It is when we are spiritually prepared for worship that we encounter God in powerful ways. You cannot ignore Him all week, doing as you desire, and then flip a switch and expect something transformative on Sunday. Are you ready for worship? By all means adjust your clock, but also adjust your soul--orient it to God in submission.

WE MUST BESTOW THE PROVISION THROUGH WORSHIP (Deuteronomy 14:22-15:23). Have you ever heard someone say, "I didn't get anything out of worship today." But a better perspective would be, "What can I give today?" I have found that the best way to receive a blessing is to be one.

This has to do with liberty (15:1-3; 12-18). God wants to set the captives free. He might well use you to proclaim that liberty.

This has to do with generosity (14:22-29; 15:4-11). Whether providing for those in ministry or for those in poverty--a liberal hand is an indicator of a loving heart.

This has to do with priority (15:19-23). God demanded the first and the finest. Worship that is content to give God the leftovers of our time, treasure and talent is a pious fraud.

So, are you ready for worship? The clock is ticking. Don't keep God waiting!

DON'T FORGET TO REMEMBER

"Remember that the Lord your God led you on the entire journey these 40 years in the wilderness, so that He might humble you and test you to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep His commands.... Keep in mind that the Lord your God has been disciplining you just as a man disciplines his son." (Deuteronomy 8:2, 5 HCSB)

We remember what we ought to forget and forget what we ought to remember. We will remember some hurtful word said by someone, which ought to be forgiven and forgotten, and will forget the helpful deed the same person did previously, that we should recall. We will instantly be able to recount some gossip in vivid detail, but have difficulty reciting a Bible verse. We remember some disappointment in life, where it seemed God didn't care, and become resentful, forgetting many blessings in life where God displayed His care, and fail to rejoice.

God warned Israel that they shouldn't forget to remember the lessons He had taught them. It was in the School of Hard Knocks, and it took them forty long years to graduate. Their parents had died and would not even see them get their diploma. The older generation that came out of Egypt failed the test and they didn't graduate. As the remaining Israelis moved on to their graduate studies in Canaan, if they forgot the prior lessons, they would suffer the same fate as their forefathers.

"Remember...learn...keep in mind...careful that you don't forget...understand...imprint these words of mine on your hearts and minds, bind them as a sign on your hands, and let them be a symbol on your foreheads. Teach them to your children...write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates." These expressions and six other similar references are given in only four chapters of today's Scripture reading. Get the point? DON'T FORGET TO REMEMBER!

Such stupid sheep we are! Dim-witted and deaf--our hearts hard and minds dull--that is our tendency. How quickly we wander away from the Lord, our Shepherd! That is so dangerous! A wolf waits just over the hill, ready to devour the unwary.

We must constantly tune in to the Shepherd's voice. The same lessons must be indelibly engraved in our hearts and minds. We must ingest the truth, ruminate on it as sheep do when they eat, get every morsel of spiritual nutrition, fueling our devotion as the Word becomes part of us. Then tomorrow we must feed again--and the next day, the day after, then as long as we live. Moses told us, and Jesus reminded us, "man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord." (Deuteronomy 8:3 HCSB; see also Matthew 4:4)

If we are not careful, the cares of the world will sweep over us like a tidal wave and drown out the Spirit's voice. We had good intentions. We just got busy. We didn't mean to forget. Now, the day is spent. Where did the time go? Collapsing on the bed, we promise, "Tomorrow--I'll catch up on my Bible reading tomorrow--too tired now." For some strange reason, the clock doesn't go off the next day, or we remember an early appointment we had forgotten and now we're compelled to rush out the door. The appointment with God? We forget about that. There are deals to make, children to shuttle, TV to watch, Facebook posts to do, and little by little, as time slips away, we likewise slip farther and farther from God. All that remains is a nagging sense we are forgetting something, but just not sure what--oh well--there are more important things to think about. I have to meet someone today. They have a deal for me, they promised. Sounded so enticing. What was their name? Wolf, I believe it was.

THE GREATNESS OF A NATION

"Carefully follow [them], for this will [show] your wisdom and understanding in the eyes of the peoples. When they hear about all these statutes, they will say, 'This great nation is indeed a wise and understanding people.' "(Deuteronomy 4:6 HCSB)

As children we learned to pray, "God is great; God is good." Those truths are inseparably linked. That is true in every dimension of life--including government. A nation's greatness is bound up with its goodness. This is what God was teaching Israel.

The Jews were getting ready to cross into the Promised Land. Abundant blessing awaited them--if, they were obedient to God's principles. Their greatness would rest upon their goodness. Those who are wise walk in the path of God's principles and reach the place of God's prosperity.

The experts today propose all kinds of solutions to society's many maladies. If we only had the right political party in power, if we only had a better business climate, if we made another technological breakthrough, if we had more educational opportunity--and so we look to pundits, diplomats, scientists, economists--all the talking heads that shout at us, "Do this and it will be great!"

None would dispute that these matters are unimportant--they are just insufficient. They are like taking pain medicine for relieving a headache that stems from a brain tumor. You may get some temporary relief, but the problem remains. Unless that is dealt with the prognosis is debilitation, then death. We are fools to think otherwise.

The malignant tumor is sin. We have violated God's precepts. We have cast off moral restraint. There is but one cure--repentance and faith in Jesus Christ!

Even the church must be cautious, lest we in our rightful call for righteousness, think that getting the right leader elected or the right legislation enacted will restore America's greatness. Doubtless, we need to stand up for truth, speak out against evil, yet, never forget our mandate is to spread abroad the Gospel. Only that gets to the heart of the problem--the problem of the human heart. Good government is needful to restrain evil, but the glorious Gospel is indispensable to regenerate evil-doers!

Martyn Lloyd-Jones said it this way, "This Gospel is the only hope of the world today. Everything else has been tried and found wanting." When bad men are reborn as good men, righteousness will be restored. A nation's greatness resides in its goodness--and the Gospel alone can bring this transformation. Then, America once more will be the beacon of hope to the world, as God intended for Israel to be to the nations around them.

OUR WORD FROM GOD

"These are the words Moses spoke to all Israel across the Jordan in the wilderness, in the Arabah opposite Suph, between Paran and Tophel, Laban, Hazeroth, and Di-zahab. ...Across the Jordan in the land of Moab, Moses began to explain this law, saying:" (Deuteronomy 1:1, 5 HCSB)

Wouldn't it be nice to be able to tell your children something one time and they would always do it? But, that isn't the reality. Parents often find themselves repeating, "Brush your teeth. Get in the bed. Have you done your homework?" If I had a dollar for every time I have had to say the same things, I would be a rich man!

So, it should not surprise us that as we read the Scriptures we don't find that many different things, just the same things over and over. Our Father in heaven has some strong-willed, thick-skulled children who just don't get it!

A new pastor came to a troubled congregation where strife was synonymous with the church's name. The first Sunday, he took his text from 1 John 4:7, "Beloved, let us love one another..." and preached a powerful message. When the people came back the next Sunday, he did the same. After a month of this, the deacons had a meeting and asked him, "When are you going to stop preaching, 'Love one another' ?" His answer was, "When you, 'Love one another!' "

That is what you have when you get to Deuteronomy. In fact, the title of the book means, "second law." It isn't a second law that was different and distinct from the first, but a second giving of the same! Israel heard the same thing again because they didn't obey it the first time. We are no different.

There is another reason why Moses found it essential to share these words once more. During the forty years that Israel had wandered in the desert, the entire adult populace had died out as God's judgment for their refusal to enter the land. Even Moses was soon to die and leave it to Joshua--who along with Caleb would be the sole survivors who left Egypt as adults--to lead them into Canaan. That new generation had to be grounded in the Word, lest they follow the same fate as their unbelieving parents. The cycle of unbelief needed to be broken and the Word of God will do that, as promised, "So faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the message about Christ." (Romans 10:17 HCSB).

Every generation that comes along needs to hear the truth. It is our responsibility and privilege to share it with them. Moses would be faithful to do so. Will we?

Our study of Deuteronomy will conclude the Pentateuch--the five books of Moses. We began with God's creation of humanity and his covenant with a chosen people he would form from Abraham's family as related in Genesis. Exodus took us into Egypt where the Hebrews had indeed become many, but were enslaved and we saw them redeemed by the blood of the lamb and delivered by God's mighty power. Leviticus focused on our worship of God. God had sought out a people to worship Him in spirit and truth. The instruction manual for such worship was given. From our worship of God in Leviticus, we came to our walk with God in Numbers. We have seen how we are pilgrims passing through the wilderness of this world. Now, we study our word from God. Not a new word, but a repeating of the same word. God is so patient in giving it because we are so persistent in not getting it!

We need to get it--these are the words of life!

Now, you'll have to excuse me--I've got to go and tell a kid to get up and get ready for school. How many times have I done that? If today is the same as most days, I will repeat it to the same boy, use the same words and with increasing intensity. There my even be a threat that comes if my command is ignored.

That's what fathers do. It's what our Heavenly Father does. We better get up and get with it!

PROMISED LAND

"You are to take possession of the land and settle in it because I have given you the land to possess." (Numbers 33:53 HCSB)

Last night I listened as Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu underscored Israel's right to defend itself from the threat of a nuclear Iran--whatever action is required. He said “I will never gamble with the security of Israel.” He linked the danger of such a brutal regime possessing these powerful weapons to the threat to the United States, and indeed to the world.

As Christians we are to pray for peace, but in a fallen world always be prepared for war. In fact, such readiness in standing up to a bully is often the best deterrent to the fight we seek to avoid.

We cannot read our Bible and believe it without seeing clearly that the sacred soil of Palestine was given to Israel. It would not be won without a battle and would not be kept without a struggle. But, the deed is signed by God. It is the "Promised Land."

There are a few things that should be said as a corrective. There is the attitude toward the modern nation of Israel sometimes mirrored in our attitude toward America, "My country, right or wrong!" While I love this nation, and am thankful to be an American, that doesn't mean I cannot see the flaws and work to correct them, neither speak out against wrong when it is evident. This is the case with Israel today.

The current state of Israel is not the covenant state of Israel. Their government today is secular and not spiritual in nature. That means we need not agree with every decision made by the Israeli government, nor unquestionably bow to the wishes of every Israeli leader. Our ideal in America is to be "under God" and yet we do not always attain that standard. We live in a sin-cursed world and fallen people still make foolish decisions. We are complicit with wrong if we do not confront it. That would include the modern nation of Israel.

Being born of the race of Abraham is not the same as being righteous like Abraham. Jesus--a Jew--said to Nicodemus--a Jew--that you cannot enter the kingdom of heaven unless you are born again. The natural birth, even to Jewish parents, can never fit one for the eternal kingdom, anymore than being born of Christian parents makes us a Christian. All people--of every race--are sinners in need of a Savior. A second, spiritual birth is required. Being of Abraham's faith is essential, not just being of Abraham's family. We defy the Great Commission and grease the slide into hell if we do not share the Gospel with all people. Christ is and will forevermore be the only way of salvation.

Having said that, the fundamental truth is this: the Abrahamic covenant has not been changed. That old covenant given by God to Abraham--renewed with Isaac, Jacob and King David--guarantees Yahweh's blessing to the Jews. God cannot break His promise. The land is theirs. Though the current state of Israel is not the covenant state, it is preparatory to it.

Along with that, we note: the Messianic covenant has not been cancelled. The New Covenant promised in Jeremiah is fulfilled in Christ. Even though the Jews rejected their Messiah when He came the first time, they will receive Him when He comes the second time. The Scripture is clear, that even though the Messianic kingdom is postponed, it can never be terminated. In the small numbers of Jews reached for Christ across the centuries--and there have always been some--we see the first-fruits of a final harvest to come. All Israel will be saved--that is every true descendant of Abraham who not only has his DNA, but who repents and receives Christ. That day is coming--and maybe soon.

So, let us remember to befriend those who are of the line of Abraham, the friend of God. "The Lord said to Abram: 'Go out from your land, your relatives, and your father's house to the land that I will show you. I will make you into a great nation, I will bless you, I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, I will curse those who treat you with contempt, and all the peoples on earth will be blessed through you.' " (Genesis 12:1-3 HCSB)

If I cannot trust the promise of God to the Jew given in Genesis, how can I trust the promise given to me in John 3:16? If the pledge of a homeland for Israel is not honored by the Lord, how can I believe a home in heaven is secured for me?

America better be on the right side of this issue or we will be on the scrap heap of nations along with all others who have sought to thwart the purposes of God.

DOING TOLERABLE

"The Gadites and Reubenites replied, 'What the Lord has spoken to your servants is what we will do. We will cross over in battle formation before the Lord into the land of Canaan, but we will keep our hereditary possession across the Jordan.' " (Numbers 32:31, 32 HCSB)

My old boss man, when asked the question, "How are you?" would reply, "I'm doing tolerable." I heard him say it many times. By that he meant--fairly well--not great, but not bad. Mr. McDuffie didn't feel like turning cartwheels, but wasn't bedfast either. He was tolerable.

So, was the choice made by two of Israel's tribes--Reuben and Gad. They saw the potential of the the pastureland on the wilderness side of the Jordan, and after some tense negotiations with Moses, where they promised to cross the Jordan and fight alongside their brethren, they would settle for an inheritance outside the land of Canaan. It was a tolerable decision.

Why was it less than the best? It was a choice to lean more on reason than revelation. They chose to walk by sight, rather than walk by faith. God had promised His people an abundant life in a land overflowing with milk and honey--on the other side of the Jordan. Rather than pursue that, they looked at those plains and thought, "This is good enough."

It made sense. They had many flocks and herds and so what could be better? They didn't think about what the consequences of the choice might bring. It is so reminiscent of the motivation of Lot in choosing the rich grazing fields near Sodom (read Gen.13:5-13). That didn't turn out very well, did it? Lot's choice exposed him and his family to spiritual peril and they were sucked into that vortex of vice. He was a man always willing to accept the tolerable. The end result would be good enough for him--Lot would make it to heaven--barely. But, he wouldn't take anyone with him. He met the minimal requirements, but just enough. That's good--but not great.

This was the nature of Reuben's descendants. Jacob had spoken prophetically from his deathbed, when he summoned his twelve sons, who would birth the twelve tribes, and said of Reuben, "Turbulent as water, you will no longer excel..." that is, accepting the minimal instead of pursuing the maximum. Jacob warned of the sad result when he spoke to Gad, "Gad will be attacked by raiders..." (Genesis 49:4, 19 HCSB). It is what compromise brings.

Do you see then, the result of the decision of the Reubenites and Gadites? Any soldier worth his salt knows that an army with a river between them and their enemy has a natural barrier to help protect them, but a body of water behind them is an extreme peril--your back is "up against the wall" so to speak.

That would be the fate of these people. Israel would always find herself surrounded by enemies. Any ancient empire on the march--whether the Egyptians, Assyrians, Babylonians or some other would lead their armies through the plains on the way to their attempt to conquer the world. Guess who would be the first to face those fierce foes? The tribes of Reuben and Gad--in an indefensible military position--the Jordan behind them and separated from their brethren who might have helped them.

Neither was the danger only from an overt attack, but from a covert operation--and not just physical danger, but spiritual consequences. They were too close to the world, too far from the house of God and the fellowship of their brethren--and it was a short distance to compromise with idolatry and immorality. Living on the edge, they found it easy to slip and fall in. That would prove to be the sad reality of this willingness to be tolerable.

It is less than what God has for us.

This attitude is what many of God's people have been willing to accept. It is what Scripture means by "an escape through fire." Paul wrote, "For no one can lay any other foundation than what has been laid down. That foundation is Jesus Christ. If anyone builds on that foundation with gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay, or straw, each one's work will become obvious, for the day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire; the fire will test the quality of each one's work. If anyone's work that he has built survives, he will receive a reward. If anyone's work is burned up, it will be lost, but he will be saved; yet it will be like an escape through fire." (1 Corinthians 3:11-15 HCSB) That is a picture of someone wakened from sleep by a fire engulfing their house. They jump out of bed and run for their lives. They escape, but are able to salvage nothing of value. Everything else is lost. Many in the church at Corinth had accepted the tolerable--they were saved, but that was about it.

A little girl was overheard praying, "Lord, make me good--but not too good--just good enough not to get a spanking!" We may not voice that prayer, but actions speak louder then words. Spiritually speaking, would you honestly say, "I'm doing tolerable." On the scale, you aren't a one or two--a wicked backslider--but neither a nine or ten--a spiritual champion. You are about a five--somewhere in the middle--not on fire, but certainly not ice cold. It could be better, but that's not bad is it? Consider these words of our Lord and then decide:

"Write to the angel of the church in Laodicea:

'The Amen, the faithful and true Witness, the Originator of God's creation says: I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish that you were cold or hot. So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I am going to vomit you out of My mouth. Because 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, I advise you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire so that you may be rich, white clothes so that you may be dressed and your shameful nakedness not be exposed, and ointment to spread on your eyes so that you may see. As many as I love, I rebuke and discipline. So be committed and repent. Listen! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and have dinner with him, and he with Me. The victor: I will give him the right to sit with Me on My throne, just as I also won the victory and sat down with My Father on His throne.'

Anyone who has an ear should listen to what the Spirit says to the churches." (Revelation 3:14-22 HCSB)

Should you tolerate doing tolerable?

SUCCESSFUL SHEPHERDS

"So Moses appealed to the Lord, 'May the Lord, the God of the spirits of all flesh, appoint a man over the community who will go out before them and come back in before them, and who will bring them out and bring them in, so that the Lord's community won't be like sheep without a shepherd.' The Lord replied to Moses, 'Take Joshua son of Nun, a man who has the Spirit in him, and lay your hands on him.' " (Numbers 27:15-18 HCSB)

God has designed His creation so that everything produces "according to its kind." This means that apple trees don't produce avocados and goldfish don't birth goldfinches. Sheep have sheep--and guess what shepherds have? Spiritually speaking, they should sire more shepherds! Paul instructed Timothy, "And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, commit to faithful men who will be able to teach others also." (2 Timothy 2:2 HCSB)

There is no success without a successor. Moses was a successful shepherd because Joshua was groomed to be his replacement. Even the best shepherd can only lead the flock so long. Someone must be prepared to take the shepherd's staff and lead them, for sheep must have a shepherd.

Joshua had learned from watching Moses work and listening to Moses' words. Moses had given him several responsibilities to lead under his watchful eye and Joshua had grown. The grizzled old veteran now had a vibrant young leader ready to lead the Lord's army. Joshua had exhibited commitment, character and competence, and now the time was near for him to fulfill God's call on his life.

There was no jealousy on Moses' part. There might well have been. For almost forty years, Moses had marched on toward the Promised Land. In heat of day and cold of night, amid criticism from his followers and challenges from his foes, on he had faithfully led Israel toward a land flowing with milk and honey. But, Moses would not be able to go there. It would be Joshua who would take the Israelis across the Jordan. Moses didn't have a pity party. He wasn't about building a name for himself. God had offered that to him, but he had refused--begging the Lord to spare Israel from the judgment they deserved. The shepherd's heart is for the flock--stinking, stubborn, straying sheep though they may sometimes be.

So, Moses will do all he can to make Joshua successful. He has poured himself into the man and now confers authority on him. "Moses did as the Lord commanded him. He took Joshua, had him stand before Eleazar the priest and the entire community, laid his hands on him, and commissioned him, as the Lord had spoken through Moses." (Numbers 27:22, 23 HCSB) In a public way, the old man of God was saying to the congregation--this is God's man, follow him.

Pole Creek has had a line of faithful shepherds who have led God's flock. I am sure that as each has moved on, the congregation missed them and wondered how they would do without them. But the church has survived and thrived. That proves how successful those shepherds were. They pointed people to Christ--the Good Shepherd--and He remains though lesser shepherds come and go. If a church crumbles when the pastor leaves, it shows the inferiority of the foundation--that is was built on a man and not the Master. Such a church deserves to die for it was a monument to the glory of a preacher rather than a tribute to the glory of God!

For almost seventeen years I have led you. Perhaps God will grant me seventeen more. Who knows? What I do know is there will come a time when I will no longer lead this congregation. If my ministry endures my tenure, it will be that I have raised up leaders who will step up in my place.

There is no success without a successor.

LOOK AND LIVE

"Then the Lord said to Moses, 'Make a snake [image] and mount it on a pole. When anyone who is bitten looks at it, he will recover.' " (Numbers 21:8 HCSB)

When a train hits a car, the results are never good. Each year about 600 people die when they try to cross railroad tracks--and don't make it. The railway system exists to transport people and material, not destroy them, so they do much to try to avoid such horror. "Look, Listen and Live," is one of the public safety campaigns which the railroad industry has mounted to try to end such needless death.

That counsel may have begun with Moses. He calls Israel to listen to him, and look and they would live.

Once again, God's children act like spoiled brats and whine about God's provision. Despite all He had done for them, they were not given to gratitude, but grumbling. So, God showed them what would happen if He ceased to provide for them. He withdrew His protection, so the poisonous vipers of the desert were summoned by their Creator and began to inject their venom into the complainers. They were dropping like flies!

Their criticism of God turns to cries of desperation and confession of sin, so the ever-merciful One makes a way for them to be healed. A serpent's image would be made of bronze and mounted on a pole. All that those who were bitten needed to do was look up to it and they would be healed--look and live!

Jesus reached into this text for an illustration of how we can have eternal life. He said, " Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in Him will have eternal life." (John 3:14, 15 HCSB) Look and live!

Jesus was lifted up on the cross--and that gruesome scene of torturous execution has an irresistible pull to all who are saved. So He promised, " 'As for Me, if I am lifted up from the earth I will draw all [people] to Myself.' He said this to signify what kind of death He was about to die." (John 12:32, 33 HCSB)

The problem which called for salvation was sin. In the case of the Israelis in the wilderness, it was manifest as ingratitude. For us, it may be exhibited in hate, lust, greed, deceit, drunkenness, and many other ways. The problem is, in every case, sin.

Sin brings death. For the Jews, bitten by the serpent, it brought on physical death, but the worst of it is what it brings to every sinner--and that's all of us--the second death, the Lake of Fire.

There is no human cure. In Numbers, we find no suggestion of an anti-venom, no help from a physician, nothing they could do to recover. Neither can we overcome the poison of sin within us. It is at work in the human race--for some, the symptoms are slow to develop, and for others more rapid and intense. You can try religion, ritual, reformation--whatever you like. You cannot save yourself.

The cure was provided by God. The Lord, in His grace, instructed a mediator, Moses, on what would be a miraculous cure--the only cure--a serpent of bronze that resembled the curse that had come upon them. In the same way, our Mediator, the Lord Jesus Christ, came to provide the cure. He is the cure! He did so by becoming a curse for us. He took upon Himself our sin, our condemnation, and was suspended on a cross, dying the death we deserve. His enemies had taunted Him, "You are no Son of God. You are the spawn of the Serpent." His death on the tree confirmed it to them, for the Scripture said, "anyone hung [on a tree] is under God's curse." (Deuteronomy 21:23b HCSB). Jesus was under God's curse, but not because of His own sin. It was for ours. "He made the One who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him." (2 Corinthians 5:21 HCSB) That's the only cure for sin's deadly venom.

The look of faith saves. The word was given--the promise of God--just look. Look and live! It made no sense. How could simply looking at a bronze serpent bring healing? How can looking at a Jew nailed to a bloody cross 2,000 years ago deliver us from hell? It was a message that was ridiculed as foolishness by Gentiles and regarded as offensive to Jews when first proclaimed in the first century and most respond similarly today.

"For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but it is God's power to us who are being saved. ... For since, in God's wisdom, the world did not know God through wisdom, God was pleased to save those who believe through the foolishness of the message preached. For the Jews ask for signs and the Greeks seek wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to the Jews and foolishness to the Gentiles. Yet to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ is God's power and God's wisdom..." (1 Corinthians 1:18, 21-24 HCSB).

Look in faith to Christ. Believe He died on the cross for you! Turn away and you will be doomed.

Look and live!

ALMOST IS NOT ENOUGH

"The Lord spoke to Moses, 'Take the staff and assemble the community. You and your brother Aaron are to speak to the rock while they watch, and it will yield its water. You will bring out water for them from the rock and provide drink for the community and their livestock.'...Then Moses raised his hand and struck the rock twice with his staff, so that a great amount of water gushed out, and the community and their livestock drank.

But the Lord said to Moses and Aaron, 'Because you did not trust Me to show My holiness in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this assembly into the land I have given them.' " (Numbers 20:7, 8, 11, 12 HCSB)

We've heard it said, "Almost only counts in horseshoes and hand-grenades."

Just a few days ago, I was getting ready to celebrate a victory of my Tar Heels over the despised Blue Devils. For me, it is a reason to rejoice when either Carolina wins and Duke loses--so for UNC to beat Duke is ecstasy. But, my ecstasy was to turn to agony. The Heels had outplayed the Devils all game long. They had a comfortable lead going into the final minutes. It would take Carolina doing everything wrong and Duke doing everything right for the outcome to change. I watched with horror as that happened and as the buzzer went off, one of those Devils by the name of Austin Rivers made the game-winner. I had so much adrenalin flowing that it was around 1:30 AM before I finally went to sleep. Then, it was the first conscious thought I had when the alarm clock went off only a few hours later. My team almost had it won! But, almost is not enough. They weren't playing horseshoes--it was basketball. They weren't tossing hand-grenades, but shooting hoops.

Still, that was only a game. It seemed a big deal at the time, but in the cosmic scheme of things won't even be a footnote. Yes, Carolina lost a heart-breaker, but they have another chance this weekend. They get to invade Durham and hopefully send the Duke team out of the gym as distraught as they were days before.

Almost in other settings can have much more serious consequences. Almost in other scenarios may never present another opportunity. So, it is in one of the most tragic chapters in the Bible, the twentieth chapter of Numbers.

Moses almost got it right.

The Israelis lapsed into their frequent pattern of complaining. Those complaints always found their way to Moses' desk. Before Truman, he had a sign on his desk that read, "The Buck Stops Here." The people were whining, "We are thirsty!" They were always griping about something. So, Moses feels compelled to act. He does the right thing! He talks to God about it. So far, so good.

The Lord tells his man, "Gather the people, speak to the rock and I will bring water from it." So, that is what Moses does--almost. The more he thinks about the persistent grumbling of the people, the more angry Moses becomes. He looks into the faces of the same old people, who said the same old thing. They always were mad at him. He was fed up! Impulsively, he raises his staff as he did once before and strikes the rock. Out flows water, just as before (Exodus 17:1-7).

God was not pleased with almost. Partial obedience is disobedience. Moses had defied God's clear command--and in front of the congregation. Almost doing the right thing will mean Moses will almost get into the Promised Land. Almost is not enough.

After all this man had done, despite all he had sacrificed and all he had endured--Moses, this great champion of faith--will see the Devil sink a buzzer beater over him and he will crumple in defeat. But, it wasn't just a game, and he won't get a rematch. It cost his teammate, Aaron too, who shared in the loss. Almost is not enough.

Doesn't it seem a bit harsh?

Don't miss the gravity of his impetuous act.

The chief end of man, and indeed the final objective of all things, is the glory of God. Therefore, anything which would diminish that glory is a grave sin. That is what Moses did.

By speaking of diminishing God's glory, I am using a relative term. You may as well think to reach into the sky, pull down the sun and blow it out--that would be more likely than for you to truly diminish His glory. But, what I can do is pull the shade down on my window, so that the light is diminished for me and my family. The sun outside shines as brightly as ever, but I have obscured it. That is what Moses did. In front of God's holy people he shouts, "Listen, you rebels! Must we bring water out of this rock for you?" (Numbers 20:10b HCSB). We? Moses and Aaron will bring water out of the rock? Not quite. It would be an act of God. He and He alone deserved the glory, but the holy name of God would not be the focus--it would turn to the human names of Moses and Aaron. God will not allow a rival to His glory.

Why did God change things? If Moses was commanded to strike the rock before, why should he have to speak to it this time?

The symbolism of the rock would be marred. The rock was a type of the Rock of Ages--Jesus Christ. Paul says this, "Now I want you to know, brothers, that our fathers were all under the cloud, all passed through the sea, and all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea. They all ate the same spiritual food, and all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank from a spiritual rock that followed them, and that rock was Christ. But God was not pleased with most of them, for they were struck down in the wilderness. Now these things became examples for us, so that we will not desire evil things as they did." (1 Corinthians 10:1-6 HCSB)

Christ is our Rock. From His wounded side flows streams of grace--the water of life! But, He was struck once and for all on Calvary. He suffered once for sins, never to suffer again. "For the Messiah did not enter a sanctuary made with hands (only a model of the true one) but into heaven itself, so that He might now appear in the presence of God for us. He did not do this to offer Himself many times, as the high priest enters the sanctuary yearly with the blood of another. Otherwise, He would have had to suffer many times since the foundation of the world. But now He has appeared one time, at the end of the ages, for the removal of sin by the sacrifice of Himself." (Hebrews 9:24-26 HCSB) All we need to do now is speak to the Rock, "For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." (Romans 10:13 HCSB) We speak and God sends the water washing over us, cleansing our sin. Thirsty souls can drink from a fountain that never runs dry. Just open your mouth.

Moses almost did the right thing. He almost got into the Promised Land. Almost wasn't enough. He would die on the outside looking in--seeing what might have been, but would not be.

Don't miss the meaning. Moses wasn't shut out of heaven! He didn't lose his salvation. His faith was genuine and is extolled throughout Scripture. But, he did lose something precious--opportunity and reward. He missed an opportunity to honor God and he lost the reward of entering fullness of blessing. He also lost his brother--and attends the funeral of Aaron at the end of these fateful events. Surely, the deepest grief was the role he had in his elder brother's death on the wilderness side of the Jordan.

Don't miss the lesson. Remember why the Apostle Paul tells us these events are recorded? "But God was not pleased with most of them, for they were struck down in the wilderness. Now these things became examples for us, so that we will not desire evil things as they did."

Here's the warning written in bold print: "Almost is not enough!"