The Christ Campaign

Christ of the New Year...

2009-01-08T06:38:00.005-06:00

When I was a kid growing up in Grand Rapids, Michigan, I used to like to sit around on New Year's eve and watch Dick Clark's Rockin' New Year's Eve. Nowadays, I go to my local church's new year's celebration. Whether or not it is Dec 31, any day is a great time to worship the Lord Jesus Christ - His majesty, His authority, His person.

But this year, I was thinking... "I do not believe The Lord really cares about the New Year...at least not in the way we regard it." It is not a biblical celebration. It is not a a time the Lord told us to commemorate. It is not in line with the Hebrew calendar which is the calendar identified in the scriptures. It just doesn't seem like the type of thing The Lord would regard. I am saying that based on what the scriptures teach, not my own opinions. And I would have to say, the scriptures are mainly silent on this issue.

I thought about this passage... "Let no one judge you in food or drink, or regarding festivals or a new moon or sabbaths" (Colossians 2:16). So then too, I will not judge any of my brothers or sisters who choose to celebrate the new year. When you gather to "celebrate the New Year", I simply hope it is a time dedicated to the Lord Jesus Christ. Whether it is January 1, 2 or 3 doesn't really matter. What is enjoyable is the opportunity to reflect on the goodness, the mercy, the faithfulness, the splendor of our King.

Christ is all-

Jesus and the StockMarket

2008-10-15T12:04:00.004-05:00

Consider James 5:1-3

"1 Come now, you rich, weep and howl for your miseries that are coming upon you! 2 Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. 3 Your gold and silver are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have heaped up treasure in the last days.

and...Matthew 13:22

"Now he who received seed among the thorns is he who hears the word, and the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and he becomes unfruitful."

or Luke 12:33

"Sell what you have and give alms; provide yourselves money bags which do not grow old, a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches nor moth destroys. "

I then ask, do you believe Jesus is concerned when Christians suffer loss in the stock market? In fact, may it be the case that when we lose things on this earth, Jesus uses that to help us to become free of earthly slavery, temporal treasures, trading them for eternal true riches? I think as believers we should be pretty non-affected by these types of things. God is our treasure, He is our portion. Our reward is in heavan, not on this earth. Earthly things only serve to slow us down. Money should be used to serve God and expand the kingdom, not serve our own comforts.

So, use your money, do not serve it. And give thanks to YHWH as the stock-market fails. He will never fail!

I Complain too much

2008-10-13T12:36:00.000-05:00

Phillippians 2:14-15

14 Do all things without complaining and disputing, 15 that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world,

This verse disturbs me. I have come to learn that I have the heart of a complainer. The Lord is not a complainer - what I mean is the Lord did all things on this earth without complaining or grumbling. He trusted His daddy enough to know that he ought not whine, disagree, grumble and dispute situations or their outcomes. In this verse Paul points out that when do complain and dispute our testimony in the world is damaged. Conversely, we want to "become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation."

Lord - I want to shine as a light in a dark world. Help me to hold my toungue tightly; not complaining about minor things, focused on my own comfort, and seeking my own desires. But rather, seeking your desires, placing others above me and accepting where I am - now.

Worship on the Run

2008-10-11T00:58:00.003-05:00

Psalm 3 reads...

1 A Psalm of David when he fled from Absalom his son. Lord, how they have increased who trouble me! Many are they who rise up against me. 2 Many are they who say of me, "There is no help for him in God." Selah 3 But You, O Lord, are a shield for me, My glory and the One who lifts up my head.

David Truly knew how to take his thoughts captive and turn problems into praise. This brother was running for his life from his own Son, and yet He decides to Worship. He is no coward. He is running, but is not afraid. He seeks to escape persecution, but He states, I will not fear. Oh Lord, even when I am discouraged or in danger, please give me an attitude and the willingness to encourage myself in you and turn to Worship you!

True Temples

2008-09-25T10:11:00.005-05:00

Whenever I look at old testament typology of our Lord Jesus Christ, I am always amazed at all of the ways He alludes that He is the Center of everything Spiritual.

Take for example the Temple. The Lord Jesus Christ seems to be demonstrated in the Temple. He is the location of our Worship in John 4. True Worship in Spirit and Truth is not located in an earthly Temple, or on a mountain, but it is found In Jesus Alone. Is Jesus alluding that the Temple is a Type of himself? Some may disagree, but I would say yes. When he states...
"destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up, but he was speaking of the Temple of His Body." (John 2:20-21) - I believe He is encouraging the Jew to recognize that He is the true location of Worship. His presence is more significant than the existence of the earthly, physical temple in Jerusalem. Just as the physical Temple was destroyed in AD 70, it was of no use when the true Temple and place of Worship Jesus the Christ had come.

Now the Body of Christ is considered as a holy temple in the Lord (Ephesians 2:21). We are to grow into a Temple that is fitted together. Worshiping Jesus collectively, in Spirit and in Truth, Growing in Unity unto our Head who is Christ.

And again, we are considered to be the "temple" of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 3:16). WoW - so we can actually worship God because the Holy Spirit is within Us - Our Bodies house the person of the Holy Spirit and thus we don't need to be in a physical temple, but can worship God in Spirit and in Truth by the Spirit of God Himself.

I don't fully understand how all of these things can be. How I can be worshiping in the Temple as the Body of Christ, as a believer (The Temple of the Holy Spirit). I do know however that because Jesus has raised His own Temple, that we can have true worship. I look forward to Worshiping God in the heavenly Temple, not made with Hands. He is forever to be praised!

Wisdom of Words...

2008-09-22T14:31:00.002-05:00

1 Corinthians 1:17 reads...

For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel, not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of no effect...

How does "Wisdom of Words" make Christ's cross, "of no effect"?

As we share the gospel of Christ, we hope to demonstrate who He is. We hope to discuss and share the fact that Jesus is the Son of God, demonstrated to be our Messiah by the raising from the dead. He is the Christ, the anointed God-Man King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He has risen bodily from the dead!

Now, when we discuss and share this message about Jesus, we need to avoid flowery words, human arguments and fleshly debating trickery. As we share this most beautiful truth, we must avoid placing confidence in our words, our own intelligence and our own reasonings rather than the Cross of Christ. When the emphasis is on "wisdom of words" to sway the hearer, we risk an emphasis on our persuasion rather than Jesus the Christ.

The Holy Spirit causes us to believe.

Let us trust in God, the Holy Spirit to open the ears of hearers in the world; boldly, confidently, but humbly sharing the Gospel of Christ. Let us rely on reasoned arugments from the scriptures rather than personal eloquence or verbal prowess.

Christ our Learning

2008-09-04T16:29:00.002-05:00

There are a lot of things the world wants us to understand and learn. Job duties, titles, procedures, political saavy, leadership skills, typing skills, computer skills, "the way of the world", "common sense", how to talk to women, how to please a man.

The world wants you to learn many things.

God wants you to learn one thing. His Son.

All of our learning in the body of Christ is that we might understand the Head, the Lord Jesus Christ who is to forever to be praised. Amen. Christ is what we learn, He is the one we study, we are disciples of Him. All of the Bible holds Christ as the subject, topic and focus. All of what we want to know and learn ought to be the Lord Jesus.

Christ is all,
Troy

Christ on the Brain

2008-09-03T14:36:00.003-05:00

If you are one of my brothers or sisters who attended the Christocentric Conference in Indiana, PA this last week, you will know what I am talking about.

Christ Pre-occupation.

The Lord Jesus Christ should be that which we have set our mind on as we engage with any new activity. He his our thinking starting point - the person we engage with that we may do all things to His Glory.

Jesus Christ ought to be our leading thought. The sermon at the conference emphasized, " Often times, our point of determination is more self-centered..."I will not waste my time", "I will not back down", "I will not forget", "I determine to be on-time from now on...". upon arriving at Corinth, Paul's intention was singular, specific and focused. 1 And I, brethren, when I came to you, did not come with excellence of speech or of wisdom declaring to you the testimony* of God. 2 For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified" (1 Corinthians 2:2)

Can you see that this is Paul's has intentially decided to intensely recognizeand lay hold of our Lord Jesus Christ? He is increasing in Christocentricity. He was planning His thoughts before time. He had a Christocentric Epistemology what he would learn, think and teach would be the Lord Jesus Christ.

Let us determine to consider, think on, and obey Him before!

Christ is all!

I am Not Forgotten

2008-08-17T18:12:00.005-05:00

So we sang this tune today at church called, "I Am Not Forgotten". OK, so the tune is actually pretty anthropocentric - I like the music, but I wish more of the tune was focused on Worship of the Christ alone... But that is a thought for another blog post.

As we were sining I thought... "It is not possible that God could actually forget anything". He is eternal. He never actually remembers something. I know the scriptures use the phrase, remembrance, but it is not in the same sense that we think of remembering. For God's mind is eternally perfect. So He can never forget anything He has every thought or spoken. In fact, he actually does not forget the believer or the unbeliever. He is perfectly in remembrance of every event of eternity.

Jesus is the same today, yesterday and forevermore (Hebrews 13:8). The grass withers and the flower fades away but the Word of the Lord endures forever (1 Peter 1:24).

Christ is ALL

My Family Twice

2008-08-15T23:33:00.002-05:00

I am going to spend a bunch of time with my family tomorrow. I haven't seen many of them for awhile. However, what I am most looking forward to is the chance to share with my spiritual family.

Blood ties are nothing in the kingdom.

We are taught to care for our children and wives, love our wives, respect our husbands, honor our parents, and discipline our children. These are good and right in the Lord. But in the Kingdom, we have a deeper bond with those who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. Consider this verse... Mark 3:32-35 reads...

And a multitude was sitting around Him; and they said to Him, "Look your mother and brothers are outside seeking you. But he answered them saying, "Who is my mother or my brothers?" And He looked around in a circle at those who sat about Him and said, "Here are my mother or my brothers! For whoever does the will of God is my brother and My sister and mother."

So when I fellowship with my earthly family that is also my heavenly family, I have true fellowship. Pray that our fellowship is rich and In Christ.

How do I know this guy is saved?

2008-08-15T23:26:00.003-05:00

Of course, I understand that we cannot really ever know if a person is saved - God separates the wheat from the tears.

But when you are sharing the gospel with a person, what are you looking to see/hear/observe to know that a person seems to be a believer? I think of the story in the book of Acts (8:26-39) where Philip is sent to an Ethiopian eunuch. He decides that the person should be baptized, thus recognizing him as a believer -- what do you look for to recognize someone as a brother or sister in Christ?

Christ is all-

Everything Jesus Gives is Free - Part 5

2008-08-13T12:08:00.002-05:00

God loves to freely give.

Consider James 1:5 -
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.

Or from Proverbs 2...
For the Lord gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding.

Now correlate these verses with the following...

I Corinthians 1:24
but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.

Can you see how God wants to liberally give us wisdo?. But in this giving we ought not look for a book, one of Ben Franklin's sayings, or some wise nugget from an earthly sage. Jesus is in fact our Wisdom. For God so loved the world that He gave His only unique Son. God is always wanting to give us more of His Son. So then all spiritual things that pertain to His Son God liberally seeks to give us. Whether faith, wisdom, knowledge, grace, truth, life, way (how) - All of the mind of God is in Christ, and God seeks to liberally impart to us the mind of Christ.

Christ is all!

Our Rock and Cornerstone

2008-08-10T18:38:00.002-05:00

The church of the Living God is referred to as a building in the scriptures. If the church is described as a building, then Christ is the chief cornerstone (1 Peter 2:6). And what a marvelous stone He is.

Consider Deuteronomy 32:18. Here, Israel is rebuked...

Of the Rock who begot you, you are unmindful, and have forgotten the God who fathered you.

This is a productive, procreating Rock! YHWH here is described as a Rock who has "begotten" us. He is the one who breathed the breath of life into man (physically), but this verse speaks uniquely of his begotten offspring - Israel. But unfortunately, the nation had become unmindful of the Rock.

But we have not so learned Christ. We have the mind of Christ! (1 Corinthians 2:16; Ephesians 4:16). May we never become "unmindful" of this most blessed Rock.

Christ is all.

Jesus is the Thesis

2008-08-08T10:25:00.002-05:00

What is a thesis? With respect to a document, a book or an essay, we can define the thesis as "the subject for a subject for a composition or essay".

John 1:1-4,14-18, Luke 24:25-27 - Jesus is the whole point of the God.

Jesus is God's topic sentence, body of content and conlusion.
Christ is the outline and each sub-point.
He is the proposition and each individual sub-theme.

Jesus Christ is the Thesis -- He alone is the Big Idea. Jesus is God's revelation, God's Prophecy, His Apostolic intent; God's sole teaching and instruction. God's perfect Word, every comma, apostrophe, jot and tittle.

Jesus Christ is the enbodiment of the Word of God. The Word now has a body, legs, fingers, flesh and blood.

The Alpha

2008-08-06T16:02:00.003-05:00

Jesus is the Alpha.

When we think about beginnings, we normally think about the object of phrase, "beginning of...". The object of the phrase "Beginning of ____ " gives meaning to the phrase - Usually, "beginning" is meaningless without the object; So what exactly is this the beginning of?

12Am is the beginning of a new day.

January 2001 was the beginning of a new millenia.

July 10, 1969 was the beginning of my life on earth (outside the womb).

Rosa Parks sitting on a bus, was the the beginning of the Civil Rights movement

Crispus Attucks was killed at the beginning of the revolutionary war

These are things, people, eras or events that had beginnings.

But Jesus IS the beginning.

No object. No explanation. No description of what He is the beginning OF, He simple is THE Beginning. There is no "of" when it comes to Him.

More than the beginning of time, of a thought, of the universe or of all created things.

Jesus is the Alpha

Bibles for Sale @ jesus.com

2008-08-05T14:44:00.002-05:00

Can you imagine Jesus selling you a copy of a bible? I can't. It really is a shame that so many have used the person of Jesus Christ to make a buck.

Is there anything wrong with providing money to those who minister the gospel? No, in fact it is preferred, but when we compromise to actually sell the most valuable spiritual thing that may be offered, namely the person of Christ in teaching - this is a big problem.

So I'll ask again...

Can you imagine Jesus selling you a copy of the Bible? Is this something Jesus would do? Would Jesus set up a web-site and peddle the scriptures? Perhaps these titles would attract consumers and Jesus could make the NY Times Best Sellers list.

"The Jesus Christ Study Bible: You only have one teacher, why not learn directly from Him"
"The Word Word: The Unadulterated Word of God from the Word of God Himself"
"Lifeline Bible Interlinear: A Greek New Testament that is written from the Life Himself"
"Eyewitness Study Bible: A Greek New Testament
"One Year Walk with the King: Study the Scriptures in a Year with the King of Kings"

Do you think Jesus would give any of these titles a shot?

A Repository of Christocentric Teaching

2008-08-05T14:40:00.003-05:00

Each year on Labor Day weekend, a group of friends of mine from Christ Bible Church make a trek out to Indiana Pennsylvania to a small fellowship of believers.

We gather for A "Christocentric Conference". The Conference is a weekend of teaching about the person of Jesus Christ. Is this a bible conference? Well sort of. It is a time that is dedicated to learning the person of the Lord Jesus Christ in a very explicit manner.

We spend the weekend discussing, hearing-of, and asking Him to re-orient our thinking patterns so that He is the true center of our interest, desires, doctrine, motives - our Life.

For those who love the Lord Jesus Christ, I invite you to attend. For more information about he conference, click on the Lion of Judah (above) and explore the site. The conference will be held August 29-31 at Lord Jesus Christ Assembly in Indiana, PA.

The Son - Creator of All Things

2008-08-04T19:58:00.005-05:00

God is the Creator of all things.

The Son who became a man (Jesus) is the Creator of all things. Colossians 1:16 reads...

For by him (Jesus) all things were created; things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him.

Isn't interesting that many of the things listed here are actually "invisible" to the human eye. Men cannot see the Father, we cannot see the Holy Spirit (all the He has represented himself visually throughout the scriptures). We cannot see Angels, they are spirit beings (although some have entertained them unaware as they have in fact appeared to look as men).

We cannot see most of the stars in the sky and the accompanying solar systems that surround many of them. With our naked eyes, we cannot see most galaxies, although there are literally thousands of them, many larger than the milky way. But all things - whether visible or invisible, were created by HIM.

Because He is the creator, then all things are ultimately For Him. Sent by His Father. Obedient to His Father's will - Jesus actually suffered a physical death where by that which He created FOR HIM, in fact HATED HIM.

This is infinitely perplexing and altogether beautiful to me. That the Father would decide to provide His own Son's human (created) life for the ransom of many (those He had already made). What a glorious Gospel. The Creator has been bruised on behalf of the Created!

I love Jesus.

Defending Jesus

2008-08-01T07:08:00.003-05:00

I used to really enjoy a certain on-air apologist for the faith. When I first believed, I truly appreciated the apologist "watchdogs" - self-proclaimed defenders of the common faith we hold in God's Son Jesus Christ. Listening to them gave me confidence that what I believed was shared by other thinking, reasoning people.

But as I have learned and grown in Him, I have increasingly found this type of apologetics to not be Christocentric.

While listening to a radio apologetics show yesterday, the discussion was between a practicing Mormon caller and two Christian apologists. As the conversation proceeded, the Christian apologists continued to raise issues about the falsehoods in the book of Mormon, DNA evidence that refuted the Mormon faith, tales about Joseph Smith and archeology that was contrary to Mormon historic writings. As I listened to the Christ-believers, I thought to myself...WHEN ARE YOU GOING TO TELL HIM ABOUT JESUS?

Sometimes when we learn about other faiths, other ways of thinking or other doctrines, we find ourselves poking holes in these anti-Christ faiths rather than presenting the most blessed Jesus Christ. If we read how biblical "apologists" (the apostles) "defended the faith", they simply reiterated true doctrine about our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Galatians, I John, Jude and Colossians may all be considered texts that are responding to anti-Christs in the their time. What you do NOT see is dialogue with these anti-Christs that presents arguments for why their faiths are not true. Therefore, we conclude that truly biblical apologists simply describe the truth about the Christ that refutes the false faith - they do not learn about the anti-Christ religion in order to refute it in a philosophical debate.

So then, while we are "defending Jesus" we can actually fail to be Christocentric.

In fact, we can replace Jesus the Christ with another set of "truths" that, while factually accurate, do not emphasize the person of Christ, thus are not in agreement with the Spirit of God whose sole aim is to reveal the Christ to the hearts of men.

Don't we know that we simply need to share the person of Jesus with the unbeliever?

Jesus has come in the flesh.
He IS God of all; the Son of the Living God
He did die for our sins according to the scripture
He did rise from the dead bodily/physically
He is our messiah/King and He will return

This is our gospel. This is our message to the unbeliever. Let Jesus rise.

Everything Jesus Gives is Free, Part 4 - We Get what He IS

2008-07-23T15:07:00.003-05:00

The exchange of the gospel is amazing. Think onthese passages....

1 Corinthians 2;16 - For who has known the mind of the Lord that they might instruct Him, but we have the mind of Christ?, but have the mind of Christ

2 Corinthians 5:21, For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

1 Corinthians 1:30 - But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God -- and righteousness and sanctification and redemption

Sanctified
Righteous
Wise
A Right Mind

These are things that are in Jesus the Christ. He IS Holy, Set Apart, Righteous and Wise. But when we are found IN Him He grants us all of these by virtue of our location. He does not in fact, impart these things in some sort of transactional way, but rather, we get them by being IN him. So when we abide in our savior we increase in wisdom, spiritual alertness, love, forgiveness -- all the things that are He defines.

We become more like Him by Grace. We cannot pay for it -- there is nothing we can do to desire more wisdom, or more of His mind, or greater Wisdom. But rather He simply gives it to us.

Or more accurately, He IS these things for us. He IS our righteousness, our peace, our love, our mind, our doctrine, our wisdom. And thankfully we do not have to earn it. For if we did, we would remain as we were apart from Him -- foolish, self-righteous, wicked, carnal and careless.

Christ is all.

Everything Jesus Gives is Free - Part 3

2008-07-18T21:58:00.002-05:00

Romans 4:4-5 - Now to him who works , the wages are not counted as grace but as debt. But to him who does not work, but believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness

No works. Absolutely no works are required for us to be "counted" righteousness. In fact, when we think our works can get us God's righteousness, we are insulting God. Have you ever had someone offer you money for something you think is priceless? Have you ever been given an offer of cash that was much lower than the actual worth of a thing you owned?

It is insulting.

Consider then the ultimate "insult" of humankind thinking they can work for the righteousness of God. How can we so underestimate the eternal value of the eternal righteousness of an eternal God? Men think of "works-centered righteousness" as integrity and morality. God sees it as an infinite misjudgment of the merit, holiness and righteousness of men.

Our works are filthy as rags in comparison to the holiness of God (Isiah 64). But we do have an eternally righteous savior - the Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus is YHWH who saves. He is the God who IS our peace and righteousness. He IS the Grace of God toward us. (John 1:14, Eph 2:7).

Christ is all

To Know Him

2008-07-17T14:44:00.002-05:00

To Know Him is the central purpose of our lives

Heaven, blessing, security, provision - these are mere by products of Knowing Him.
To Worship HIM, to Praise Him, to Sing to Him, Give to Him; this is what we do when we Know HIM.
Disciple, Friend, Brother, Servant, Joint Heir - these are titles that come with KNOW HIM.
Persecuted, Dispised, Disrespected, Unknown, Unregarded, Punished - This is how the World thinks of us the more we KNOW HIM.
Loved, Cared for, Remembered, Not Forgotten, Graced - This is what He considers us when we KNOW HIM.
Holiness, Righteousness, Omnipotence, Goodness, Power, Wisdom, Truth, Life - these are attributes we would know nothing of apart from KNOWING HIM.

We spend our time as the church learning to recognize and Know HIM, for to Know HIM is why we live.

His resurrection power. Fellowship in Suffering. Moldable to Death.

Chirst is all-

_______ day

2008-07-17T14:01:00.004-05:00

Galatians 3:28 reads, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. "

I believe we ought not polute our worship with human focus. The 21st century church spends a lot of time celebrating things associated with our human diversity. IN the church, we celebrate things like..."Mens" days, "Women's day" and "Youth day". We hold Mother's day luncheon's, "Father's day prayer" and "Pastor's Anniversary" banquets. We celebrate "Church Anniversary", "Founder's Weeks, " and We even celebrate cultural things like "Black History Month" and "Cinqo De Mayo".

None of these things are in the bible. Christ never encouraged any of us to hold special celebrations in His name that honor men. Things that churches expect us to participate with no biblical basis are called traditions of men.

I love my mother. I love my dad. I love black people. I love white people. I love my local assembly - I am simply wary of celebrating things in the church that have an emphasis that is separate than the head of the body the Lord Jesus Christ.

Am I going to far? Am I being too technical? Am I too "Jesus"-crazy?

I am simply asking God to re-direct my attention to HIM alone. May the Lord Jesus Christ be exalted to the glory of God the Father, in the power of God the Spirit.

Christ is all-

Everything Jesus gives is Free - Part 2

2008-07-16T23:26:00.002-05:00

I believe Jesus received money while working in ministry. He has a treasurer for the ministry He led (albeit a cheating treasurer). And he used money to pay for things that needed to be paid for. But why do we often confuse the concepts of 1) receiving money and 2) charging for a service.

When we receive a gift, we are simply the recipient of someone else's free decision. If you provide me with money because I have ministered through the Word, Teaching, Counsel, Music Ministry - or any other work I perform as an Elder and Servant of Christ, that is a good thing. I will gladly receive it. I believe that ministers of the gospel should receive money as they faithfully fulfill the work of Christ (1 Cor 9:9; Deut 25:4; 1 Tim 5:17). But this is altogether different than a minister charging for His work.

Charging says - "I'll do this if I get paid." Receiving a gift says, "I will gladly accept this, but I will serve even if I do not receive a gift".

I would encourage my fellow ministers to avoid charging. Strangely enough, the world normally considers your ministry to be less valid, qualified or worthwhile if you do NOT charge. 1 Corinthians 9:18 encourages us as ministers to avoid abusing our rights as ministers (this passage speaks specifically about Apostles, but we will apply it to other word-bearing ministers). Brothers - avoid charging. Allow giving. Use wisdom and avoid the love of money.

Christ is all.

Yesterday was my birthday, but...

2008-07-11T09:47:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was my birthday! But so what? Well a friend of mine sent me a text saying that I should reflect on my spiritual re-birthday. This was a great message -- I was already thinking about it so it was a great reminder.

Yesterday, I was thinking...

1. My first birth date is pretty insignificant
2. I will eventually cease to live on this earth and I will live eternally
3. I was re-born in the Lord Jesus Christ and now I have a real reason to celebrate.

My spiritual re-birth is the true reason to be rejoicing. I lived most of my teen years believing I was a believer - but I was not. When I truly came to believe on Jesus as the God-man, Messiah, Risen Bodily Savior, I was about 22 years old. Before then, I said that i was "saved", but I did not believe in the person of Jesus.

I had said a prayer to receive Christ, but did not believe in the deity of Christ.
I went to church, but did not know Jesus was the Creator of the Universe
I led musical groups, choirs and ministries, but did not even know what the term "Son of God" meant
I lived a moral life in the eyes of carnal men, but I did not know anything about the scriptures or that Jesus was God.

I am most thankful that Jesus saved me from the condemnation I am due. Yesterday was my birthday...but not really.

Everything Jesus gives is Free - Part 1

2008-07-11T09:12:00.004-05:00

Have you ever considered that the Lord Jesus never charges for anything. He does not connect a cost to the things he provides for us. He freely gives (Revelation 21:6. Romans, 8:32, Matthew 10:8)

We have been saved by grace through faith, not of ourselves. It was not through our works that he has saved us, but because of his free gift unto us (Ephesians 2:8). God operates with us by giving what He wants to give freely. I can think of at least two reasons why this is so.

No Glory for Us
If the gift cost us something, we would eventually boast about it. In other words, if we paid for we would ascribe a measure of deservedness, glory or praise to our selves. Think about how man operates. The pride of life. The lust of the eyes. Men love to tell others about how much they paid for things. They enjoy the status that comes along with high cost goods. Man almost always sees his own glory in that which he has bought. So God does not allow us to share in His glory by

No Price Would be High Enough
The things God gives us cannot be paid for. They represent the infinite value of an infintely holy savior and King. Christ's death for us cannot be paid for. By adding any human price to His gift we would be cheapening the value of his gift.

No One would be able to pay
If God's gifts toward us were based on our ability to pay, no one would be able to pay it. Man could not do enough, save enough or pay enough to interact with an infinite God.

The God-Man Jesus the Christ is our only mediator to God. He paid an infinite price and is a perfect man. Thus God must engage with man only through His Son. I have more to say about this topic, but will save it until the next installment.

Christ is all!

Woe to you when men speak well of you...

2008-07-09T22:55:00.003-05:00

Luke 6:26 reads, "woe to you when men speak well of you..."

When men all men love you, it is normally the case that you are not speaking the truth of God to them. Men hate truth, because they love the darkness (John 3:17-19).

When I share the gospel, I simply explain the truth about the Lord Jesus Christ - namely His Person and His Work. Who He Is (God, Man, Deity, Messiah/King) and what He has done for us (died for our sins, rose physically from the dead, demonstrated His Messiahship). I teach that by believing in this Jesus, men can be saved. But saved from what?

If I sense someone is thinking..."So what about this Jesus...I'm straight...I'm cool...I don't need Jesus". I then share with them the condemnation that is on them. I let them know that they are currently under a judgment. A condemnation from this perfect righteous God. That by continuing in unbelief in God (Jesus IS God), that they will be condemned.

This is what makes the Gospel - Good. That in spite of my sin, in spite of my state of condemnation, God has made a way of escape. While I would not say sharing information about condemnation is part of the "gospel" - it is what makes the message GOOD NEWS. Namely, that I no longer must live in condemnation for eternity. Take out the fact that Jesus is the only way to escape judgment and the Gospel seeks to be GOOD news. It quickly becomes..."that was nice to know" - news.

We need a savior. God provided His Son as the only WAY, Truth and Life. Believe on Him.

Get ur snap on...

2008-07-09T22:42:00.006-05:00

Do you enjoy poetry? Check out our sister Blair in this provocative piece she spit at a banquet in L.A.

That -----___------- ___ poet

This King of Peace

2008-07-08T09:25:00.003-05:00

Are Kings normally identified by Peace? Most of the Kings of England, France, Russia, Egyptian Pharaohs and Caesars were known as tyrants.

Our savior is from the tribe of Judah. He was prophesied to come in the line of Kings in Israel. It was prophesied that the King that sat on this throne would have an everlasting Kingdom (Psalm 93:2).

But He is also called a King of Peace. Jesus is called the Prince of Peace in the Book of Isaiah. Our Lord is also identified as a King of Peace in the likeness of Melchizedek. The writer of Hebrews reminds us that this King of Salem is the King of Peace. He has truly given unto us peace (John 14:27). This Kingdom is not as the world would see a kingdom, with eating, drinking and worldly goods, but this Kingdom is a Kingdom of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. In Him we have reconciliation with the Father. In Him we have a true peace that passes all understanding. For He, Himself IS our Peace (Ephesians 2:14).

So again, are earthly Kings normally identified by peace? Because He is powerful and is the rightful King, He is able to keep this peace. It is not temporary, for He is the King on the everlasting throne.

Church Segmentation - 11, Franchises and Brand Extensions

2008-07-08T08:54:00.004-05:00

So a quick marketing lesson is in order. A brand is:

"a collection of experiences and associations attached to a company, organization, product or service; more specifically, brand refers to the concrete symbols such as a name, logo, slogan, and design scheme".

In marketing, when a company or product has a brand that is viewed positively, they attempt to leverage the positive feelings toward the brand by "extending" the brand into areas the product has not previously been utilized. For example, Coca Cola is a core brand. But to extend into the market more they created, Coke Zero, Cherry Coca Cola, Caffeine free Coke etc. Lays potato chips is a brand, but they then developed, Wavy Lays, Baked Lays to capitalize on the consumer's enjoyment of the Lays brand. Franchises work similarly to brand extensions in that they take a trusted company and move the entire company into a new community. McDonalds, Wal-Mart, Burger King, Target -- same company, different communities. They take a "successful" model and transplant it so that the consumer need not become acquainted with the brand, they can expect to find the same type of store transplanted into a new place.

Well, 21st Century American churches have copied this corporate model. In my area there are several churches who have extended into the local community. Harvest Gurnee, Harvest Lake Zurich, or The Chapel Mundelein, have recently been planted. These church plants begin a new local congregation in a new area, but take the positive aspects of the mother church to the new geographic location.

Church planting is great, but sometimes I fear that churches are attempting to plant their church model and then extend IT into other communities. The main message becomes, you can visit our new church that is just like the original "church model" but in a new community. Can you see how subtle this is? Can you see how quickly the emphasis can become the model that has worked in the past congregation rather than Christ-ocentric, Word-following ministry? The danger is that we attempt to duplicate a worship style vs. focusing on disciple making.

Christ is the only One who needs to be extended. He ought be pre-eminent in all things. O ur Lord Jesus Christ must be exalted in every way, at every opportunity, by every man and woman, in every place. We are who desire Jesus' brand - those who want to be totally consumed in our mind with the imprint of the Savior. We want more than to be associated with Christ through church affiliation, political practices, traditional morality, "family values", t-shirts or rubber bracelets...we seek to obey and love Him radically, unashamedly and consistently.

Let us be sure to never place a model, brand or idea in the center. May Christ remain our central focus and desire.

King of Kings - 1

2008-07-02T08:09:00.006-05:00

Our King is truly a King.
He was born in the Davidic line. The book of Matthew begins with the geneology of our King. He is called, the Son of David, the Son of Abraham. This demonstrates that He is both Jewish and from the unique lineage of the Tribe of Judah and the House of David. The throne of David was established as an eternal throne. The King of eternity had to be one who came from the house of David. Matthew outlines the fact that Jesus' adopted, earthly father was Joseph who was from the line of David. (Luke 2:4)

Luke 3 also traces our King's lineage all the way back to the first man, Adam. Jesus is the Son of Man, born to a woman.

But, perhaps most impressively, He is not only born to the line of a King, but He is worshiped by a King. Jesus points out in Matthew 22:43 that David called this Messiah King - LORD (kurios). This is the greek term for YHWH, or "THE LORD" of the "old testament". YHWH is the name of God (I AM) and David regards this King as Kurios, YHWH, "The I AM I AM", Creator God.

So our King is not merely an earthly King, but He is God. He is THE LORD God who Reigns.

Church Segmentation - Part 10, Worship Style Services

2008-06-29T21:48:00.003-05:00

There is a church that the Christ-worship ministry I lead has visited that boasts three styles of worship services. They have a traditional church service, a contemporary church service and a youth service. The goal is to meet every one's personal worship styles.

Do you think Christ is interested in worship style? Ought believers be gathering with people who have a certain worship style? One that is similar to their own personal preference?

This focus is not Christ at All. This type of segmentation divides the body. It separates the unity that is Christ. Is Christ divided? Is Jesus one who wants us to separate the seniors from the youth? The traditional musical style from the contemporary? May it never be! Jesus is the head - we are His Body. May we be unified in Him alone.

Christ is all.
Troy

Another Gospel

2008-06-29T21:42:00.004-05:00

The Gospel is about the Lord Jesus Christ. It is the message of Jesus alone. More specifically that Jesus is God's only true, unique Son. That Jesus came to die for the sins of the world. That He did in fact die and rise from the dead. That Jesus is the promised, prophesied Messiah of the World. The Anointed one, the Christ. It is about knowing the only true God, the Lord Jesus Christ who is the Son of God - begotten of the Father.

But many are teaching another Jesus. One who desires that you will be healthy, wealthy and comforted by material things. This is not the Jesus of the scriptures. Click on the video above for an excerpt from Desiring God ministries about this so-called Gospel that really is no gospel at all. (2 Corinthians 11:4).

Church Segmentation - Part 9, Contemporary Topical Preaching

2008-06-28T23:50:00.003-05:00

Preachers and Teachers. Evangelists and Exhorters. Word-bearers in the Church of the Living God. Those called to be Elders and Deacons. Pastors of the flock...

Stop teaching so many culture-topical messages. What do I mean by this? I mean, stop looking to the culture to find what you should teach.

If you need to correct your local church because they have followed the world, do not hesitate to rebuke. But be sure to teach them the Word of God. Start with The Word - end with The Word. Every answer your local church needs is in the Word. The Word of God IS Christ. He is the most awesome message that could ever be preached or taught! Preach the Word (Christ) in Season and out of Season. Teach them the Gospels. The Epistles. Revelation. The Books of Wisdom. The Law. Teach them The book of Acts and the Prophets. They need to know the mind of Christ and it is ONLY found in the Word of Christ!

Reproof corrects us, but there is no reproof apart from the Word of God. Your sheep need Christ, they just don't always know it.

They have been conditioned by the cosmos to hear advice from Oprah, doctrine from Dr. Phil and the extra-biblical traditions of Church Going men. But do not forsake The Word of Life which is our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He is our only hope. You need not entertain them, merely share the truth and pure nourishment of the Word of God.

What does it mean to be filled with the Spirit? - Part 3, Self Control

2008-06-28T23:38:00.003-05:00

Is Spirit filling active worship?

I was raised in a very conservative church (according to traditional "black" church standards). But even though I went to First Community AME, it was not unusual (especially during "revival") for people to "catch the holy ghost").

"Catching the Holy Ghost" in a traditional African American religious conference is defined by a person, dancing, shouting, sometimes screaming and passing out. Whenever these things happened at my childhood church, someone would say..."She just caught the Holy Ghost"; or maybe someone would say..."The Spirit just hit them..." or, "He was dancing in the Spirit".

So, in this context, the Holy Spirit is normally blamed when a person begins to shout, scream and dance uncontrollably. But one of the fruits of the Spirit of God Is Self-Control. Our Lord was Never out of Control. He was always totally aware of what He was saying -- He was 100% in charge of His actions. His motives were never evil and His actions never were contrary to His intentions. In fact, because He only did what He saw His Father doing, (John 8:38, 15:15) For Jesus to be out of control would indirectly accuse God the Father of lack of control. How then can the Spirit of God who was sent to testify of Christ direct a Human in an manner that is without self-control.

Dancing, singing, praising God are excellent unto HIM -- but let us worship God with all of our mind.

"Vulgar" Praise

2008-06-22T22:49:00.006-05:00

2 Samuel 6:20-22 is one of my all time favorite swatches of scripture...

When David returned home to bless his household, Michael daughter of Saul came out to meet him and said, "How the king of Israel has distinguished himself today, disrobing in the sight of the slave girls of his servants as any vulgar fellow would!' David said to Michael, "It was before the Lord, who chose me rather than your father or anyone from his house when he appointed me ruler over the Lord's people Israel - I will celebrate before the Lord. I will become even more undignified than this, and I will be humiliated in my own eyes. But by these slave girls you spoke of, I will be held in honor."

There is so much that could be said of this verse, but let us highlight this point. David's statement, "It was before the Lord". His worship, his dancing was solely dedicated to the Lord. It was not for the eyes of his wife. He was disinterested in how it made him look before the world. He was not concerned with the opinions of men, but he was reflecting on the goodness of God and decided to demonstrate it in praise that was deemed shameful and undignified in the eyes of his carnal wife. Ironically, that which was for God was viewed as "vulgar" by the one who had no regard for God.

Isn't this just like the world? They take the things which God enjoys and claims they are unholy, and takes the things which God deems as unholy, unrighteous or vain and makes them to be worshiped. God alone is forever to be worshiped. May our worship be for God alone, in Christ alone by the power of the Spirit alone.

Christ is all!

My "Alma Mater" - Things I hate about Notre Dame

2008-06-20T04:12:00.007-05:00

Men often take the name of Jesus to the most common places.

I went to a very strange school for undergraduate - the University of Notre Dame. The school seeks to develop a lot of nostalgia in its students. While Notre Dame claims to be a Christian (albeit Catholic) institution, as I reflect on my experiences there, I find the school to be markedly Anti-Christ.

One think I can't stand about Notre Dame is the use term "Touchdown Jesus". There is a huge mural of Christ on the side of the main library at ND. From the football stadium, the mural is directly behind the goal posts. Given that Notre Dame is a school noted for its football tradition, students "affectionately" give the name of this mural, "Touchdown Jesus". I hate this.

Jesus is the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. He is not a mascot that should be pulled out and cheered to for sporting success. Jesus is THE CHRIST - forever to be praised. He is I AM.

Touchdown Jesus is another Jesus and is thus Anti-Christ. He is the Notre Damic friend who encourages football success, is OK with Saturday night drunkenness, leads mass on Sunday morning, looks over your shoulder when you have an exam, and answers prayers offered by candle at the grotto.

The real Jesus Christ is the infinitely better, awesome, creator and King! The Alpha and the Omega. The Prince of Peace. Mighty God. From Everlasting to Everlasting. The Ancient of Days forever to be praised! Amen.

Our Rock of Escape

2008-06-19T11:59:00.005-05:00

I look for the Lord Jesus Christ whenever I open the pages of the scripture. Here is a favorite text of mine I read again a few days ago...

1 Samuel 23:28, "Therefore Saul returned from pursuing David, and went against the Philistines; so they called that place the Rock of Escape."

The Lord Jesus Christ IS the rock. He is the Rock where living water is located. He is the stumbling stone and the rock of offense to those who deny Him. But in this passage he is the Rock of Escape. He is a place of shelter. He is our YHWH Nissi under which we find refuge, escape and protection in the time of trouble. David escaped from the hand of Saul in this Rock and we can find refuge and protection in the Lord Jesus Christ, our Rock of Escape.

What does it Mean to be Filled with the Spirit? - Part 2, Toungues or Jibberish?

2008-06-19T11:37:00.002-05:00

Watch people who argue premises which can neither be proven or denied. Many today preport to be speaking in an "unknown language". When you ask..."What is this language you are speaking", they will claim, "it is an angelic, heavenly language." When you question, "How do you know it is an angelic language?", they will reply, "I prayed and God enabled me to speak in it...I know this is the Holy Spirit!"

How can we ever examine whether such a thing is of God or not. This is an unprovable premise. But, I would argue that based on the scriptures, we can deny such a premise. Mainly because it does not characterize the spiritual intent of the Holy Spirit of God - namely to illuminate us to Jesus (John 15:26).

I have been attacked by fellow brothers and sisters for doubting whether or not this is "speaking in toungues" as it is demonstrated in the scriptures.. What do you think? If I don't see Christ, his person, thinking, compassion, love, and identity being clearly communicated, I do not assume it resonates from the Spirit whose focus is to draw men closer to Him (Christ)..

Church Segmentation, Part 8 - Prophetesses and Sister Evangelists

2008-06-18T22:54:00.004-05:00

Have you noticed the trend in many inner-city churches to endorse prophetesses and evangelists. For some reason in current American Christianity, there is still a traditional lack of tolerance for women pastors, but prophetesses and evangelists have been wholly embraced.

I don't really understand where this comes from. It may come from a re-interpretation of New Testament teaching on the role of the teacher and elder, but I suspect the root is more simple and more human. May I suggest that the reason for the upsurge in prophetesses and female evangelists is a combination of the women's liberation movement and the fact that a more diverse set of teachers will increase church attendance (numbers).

Take a look at Revalation 2:20 and the Lord Jesus Christ's rebuke of Thyatira. Is his rebuke only because of the content of the woman's teaching, or is because the church allowed her to teach at all (or both)? Or why don't we hear more sermons today that address 1 Timothy 2:12-13. This passage is normally marginalized and skipped in most US pulpits. Nor have I seen anyone of late confirm their claim to being a prophet through any signs, miracles, or most importantly the exaltation of the deity of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. So then, Little Children test the spirits and do not believe every so-called messenger of God for there are many false prophetesses who will deceive.

The Thrill of Victory and the Agony of Defeat

2008-06-18T07:31:00.002-05:00

Some of you who are my age or older probably grew up watching "The Wide World of Sports". The show was on ABC and was hosted by Jim McKay. Last week Jim McKay died. He was one of he most famous sports announcers of all time. On his 70's and 80's television show, The Wide World of Sports, he began every show with the famous line, "The thrill of victory, and the agony of defeat".

People love watching sports because they feel like they are vicariously winning through the athletes. The human heart enjoys rooting for a team and participating in their victory. Unfortunately, these "victories" are all vanity.

Last night the Boston Celtics one the NBA championship, their 17th Championship. Kevin Garnett one his first. This past weekend Tiger Woods won the U.S. Open for his 14th major championship. The New York Giants won the Super Bowl this year and the Boston Red Sox won the World Series. But, in a few months, someone else will win the Super Bowl. Another team will win the World Series. They will all hoist the same trophies and say the same things. But the thrill only lasts for a short time. It will eventually pass away.

But in Christ, we hope to receive a crown from our eternal King. We seek a reward that will not rot or rust. We desire an affirmation from the judge that sees all performance, never misses any effort and knows our motives, the true and holy judge with eyes of fire. We await a true and holy king that we will worship, serve and enjoy forever. Lord, come soon.

The Role of the our Great High Priest

2008-06-17T21:13:00.004-05:00

Priests are mediators of worship. They are the ones who are responsible to serve as God's mediator between God and men. They mediate the covenant and all worship must flow through them. In the old testament, a priest was required to provide a sacrifice.

I was reading 1 Samuel today. Saul made a crucial mistake early in the book by offering a sacrifice in lieu of the presence of Samuel. Saul waited for Samuel, but when he (Samuel) didn't show, Saul decided to offer the sacrifice himself (1 Samuel 13:8-13). Saul lost the Kingdom and favor of God because he "foolishly" approached worship without a priest. He thought he could simply provide a sacrifice on His own accord - but this is insulting to the person and Holiness of God.

Did he fully understand how much his behavior disregarded God? Maybe not, but in fact, this act was anti-Christ. It was anti-Christ in the sense that Saul took over the role of priest. He decided to be the mediator himself, when he was not a Levite. By denying the priest, Saul disregarded the necessity of man to have a mediator between himself and God. Man needs a mediator. The Old Testament priest was a type for the Lord Jesus Christ, and Saul in essence said, "I can come to God without a priest".

But we have a GREAT High Priest (Hebrews 4:14) who has passed through the heavens. Our Great high Priest only had to offer one sacrifice. His sacrifice is all-sufficient. His ministry is everlasting. He is blameless both as priest and sacrifice. His worship comes from one with clean hands and pure heart (Psalm 24).

We have a beautiful savior. Our Worship is always in Spirit and Truth when it is found in this Great High Priest (John 4).

Church Segmentation - Part 7 "Let's...It will bring them in..."

2008-06-16T07:45:00.004-05:00

I talk to many pastors, believer friends who talk about using emotional means to bring 'em in...

"Let's have a hip hop night
"Let's have some food"
"Let's have a youth outing to Great America...",
"Let's talk about relevant issues..."
"Let's have a big name speaker or artist come in..."

These things will really, "bring 'em in..."

So how would you feel if at your birthday party or an event that was meant to celebrate you that, the organizer felt like they had to find a gimmick to attract people to come? I know if the party were for me, I would rather not have the event. If my friends didn't want to come, just for me, then I would rather not have the event at all.

Today, well meaning believers are using gimmicky approaches to attract the masses.

Christ never did this. He never used the old bait and switch to get people to follow Him. In fact, when Jesus sensed that people were coming due to the miracle rather than the miracle worker, he often refused to do a work. When the miracle over shadowed the messenger, Christ never did a miracle to satisfy the crowd's thirst for "wow factor". (John 6)

Let God arise and leave the gimmicks alone.

News today, Gone tomorrow

2008-06-16T07:35:00.004-05:00

The death of Tim Russert seemed unexpected to many. Of course to God, it was not unexpected. The Father always knew the date, time and second Tim Russert would die. But I found it interesting how literally the day before Tim Russert died, he was reporting the news. A day later, he was the news.

Life is fleeting. We could all die any day, any hour, any minute. The time we have is precious. Not necessarily because we are precious but because Christ is precious. Christ died that we might have abundant life. The abundant life is that spent enjoying, learning, and obeying Christ. It is in this zoe life that we will never die. What a shame it is that many believers die, while wasting their times on earth doing things that are mundane, self-seeking and vain. Let's live in zoe life now. Let us serve the Lord Christ fully, wholeheartedly and consistently - with no regrets for how we lived.

Worship is an Offering...but how?

2008-06-13T13:42:00.003-05:00

So if worship is an offering, does it matter how it is offered? Does God receive any offering from any person? Can an unbeliever in the Lord Jesus Christ, one who does not receive Him as the raised-from-the-dead, living, Son of God, deity Messiah...can he or she worship God?

Does it matter if worship is not presented in Christ? He says that He is looking for true worshipers, those who will worship in Spirit and Truth. So what does this mean?

If worship is an offering, we must understand how it must be offered. I am interested in your biblical, Christ-focused comments on this topic.

Christ is all.

What does it Mean to be Filled with the Spirit? - Part 1

2008-06-09T09:34:00.003-05:00

So here is a common phrase used in the scriptures and in contemporary church culture: be filled with the Spirit. I hear people say this all the time, but what exactly do we mean when we use this phrase? I have found that people of differing backgrounds use "filled with the Spirit", differntly.

Some will not use it at all for of being categorized with a group they do not admire. Others use it all the time. So what exactly does this phrase mean? How is it used in the scriptures? What is God's intent in allowing and chosing to fill people with His Spirit?

We will explore this topic during the next few months, but for starters, post a response and let me know what you think the phrase means...

Christ is all.

The Christ Campaign

2008-06-06T07:43:00.004-05:00

Americans are currently cheering John McCain and Barack Obama. On earth, they currently are in the running to lead the most powerful nation on earth. But just like other powerful world leaders like Alexander the Great, Caesar Augustus, Napoleon, Constantine, the Kings of England, The Czars, the great Emperors of Japan -- they will all die. Their, thrones (power and authority), Kingdoms (span of authority) and lives (ability to rule) will all come to an end.

The campaign we support is for the Lord Jesus Christ. It is HIS Kingdom. HE is the King. He is the ruling sovereign. All that we do is aimed at acknowledging, obeying, submitting to, enjoying and falling in line with His Kingdom.

So then...

What are the priorities of this Kingdom?
How are decisions made? Who makes the decisions?
How is Justice administered? Who writes the laws? Is there a congress?
Is voting allowed? How does this Kingdom come into power?
What is the lifestyle honored by this King?
What kind of honor does this King require and deserve?
What makes this King unique beyond other kings?

His Kingdom is not of this world, but it does contain this World. His Kingdom is not of this present age, but it will stand in judgment of this present age.

Christ's Kingdom will never end. He is the King who will never die. He rules a Kingdom that cannot be defeated. His campaign will require no Human affirmation. It will stand no human or spiritual (demonic) threats. He will not be voted in, but the King of Glory Shall come in. He will simply return and crush all of His rivals and Reign forever.

Jesus, come soon!

Churches Segmentation, Part 6 - Politically-Centric Church

2008-06-04T07:57:00.004-05:00

In recent days, much has been made of Michael Pfleger's speech about Hillary Clinton. Basically Pflager accuses Hillary of expecting the nomination for the Presidency because she deserved it due to her political pedigree and race.

Why is everyone so surprised at this type of speech? As a former member of the AME Church, I heard this type of "preaching" my entire childhood. Nothing Pleger said was a surprise to me. Whether Focus on the Family or Trinity United Church of Christ, the emphasis of these ministries is, politics not Christ.

Ashamedly, many of those who lead these organizations continue to teach their followers to place their hopes in men, political processes and parties rather than the King of Kings and Lord of Lords who will soon rule and reign on an eternal throne. This type of teaching goes beyond the purpose of the body of Christ. It is a form of Godliness, while denying its power (2 Timothy 3:5). "Churches" that teach political hero worship have, "exchanged the Truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creator rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen. (Romans 1:25).

I ask that the Lord would come soon and set right the nations who defy Him. Just like the Israelites, man always desires a Saul in lieu of a Messiah. May the Messiah come and set up His kingdom - Soon.

Maranatha.

Christ-style Discipleship

2008-06-02T22:28:00.003-05:00

Luke 14:26 reads...
If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.

and...

John 15:18
If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you.

or

John 6:67, Then Jesus said to the twelve, "Do you also want to go away?"

Have you noticed how the Lord Jesus is very forward, transparent and direct about the cost of discipleship?

There is a current movement in the body of Christ that focuses on the importance of discipleship. This is a good thing. The emphasis is on the fact that our Lord wants more than to create believers but rather that he demands discipleship. He wants us to become learners of Him alone.

20th Century American church thought places the onus on the teacher. However, the Lord Jesus Christ expected a lot out of the disciple. He simply presented teaching, taught His thinking, led the way and expected those who would follow to follow. He would restore if necessary, but He did not spend a lot of time attempting to convince others to follow him if they desired the World.

How bad do we want HIM? How much do we want to become a disciple of Christ? Ask the Lord Jesus to help you to evaluate your heart for Him as His disciple. May the we be unashamed, unhindered, "sold-out" disciples of Christ.

I need A provider

2008-05-30T00:56:00.005-05:00

I work at Abbott Laboratories y'all. I am thankful for my job. I don't really like it alot, but I enjoy it about as much as a believer can enjoy a secular job. My work is vanity, but it enables me to do the things that God would have me to do with money.

But although I have a job, I still need a provider. God is a provider - a job can never provide for my needs. Christ is our eternal YHWH Jireh. He IS our provision.

The rock the Israelites drank from was Christ (I Corinthians 10:4). He IS the rock and the water. He IS the provider and the provision. HE is the source and the substance. The Lord Jesus Christ, not Moses was the source of their life. Don't get it twisted, even when Moses sinned and hit the rock, the Lord still gave the water. Moses was an instrument of provision, but not the source...

I have a job, but I need a provider. Lord Jesus, thank you for being what I need, even before I know I need it. You were the Lamb before I was even born!

Worship is fun

2008-05-30T00:45:00.002-05:00

Why are we so glum sometimes about Worship? I am an elder at my local assembly. One of my primary roles is leading the music ministries and leading the time of worship on Sunday. In that role, you get such an interesting perspective.

When you are facing the congregation, sometimes you find yourself looking at the people's faces in the congregation. Some people are staring into space, others are texting someone, many are singing (albeit with a discontented look on their faces), while still more look bored out of their minds. Is really how people look when they are enjoying themselves.

We are to worship in Spirit and in Truth - but worship ought not be regimented and forced.

I love my wife. I like spending time with her. I like talking with her, going to dinner with her. I think she is an engaging person. I have decided to share my life on this earth with her. But what if when I was with her, I looked as if I was not enjoying myself? You see, when I am enjoying myself, you know it. It is obvious in my mannerisms, my facial expressions, my countenance. When we our guilty, our countenance witnesses against us (Isaiah 3:9). In the same way, when we do not enjoy God, it shows on our faces.

I mean -- do we really like God? Do we really enjoy Christ. I am not encouraging you to act like you like God, but simply that you learn Him. As you learn the Lord Jesus Christ you will grow to like Him in your heart. Then your worship countenance will demonstrate that spending time singing to, honoring and focusing on the Godhead really is fun.

Church Segmentation, Part 5 - Sin based "ministry"

2008-05-24T21:24:00.004-05:00

The bible is the most relevant book in the world; it is the most influential and practical thing that has ever been written. But although it is practical, it does not approach life and practice the way men do.

Men usually focus on solving problems. The central message of the scriptures is to direct us to a perfect man, the Lord Jesus Christ. Yes - the scriptures do provide us with specific, practical information about how to correct us, reprove us and change us. But the focus is always helping us to focus, learn and behave like the perfect man, the Jesus. So if the central message of scripture and life is the God-man Jesus Christ, why do we always try to grow by correcting our own sin? I think it is because we are human.

There is a current movement in American Christianity to segment believers by their type of sin problem. We have divorce recovery ministries, substance abuse ministries, every man's battle (pornography), and battered women's ministry. At one Chicago church, there is even a ministry for homosexuals (unfortunately this church actually does not teach that homosexuality is sin, so I guess, theoretically don't fall into the "sin-ministry" category). The basic thesis is, that if we better understand our sin patterns, we can fix the problems that entangle us.

This thesis is a lie. First of all it fails to understand our common enemy, the devil. He has always lied to us and has always used the same tactics to entrap men. Secondly, and more importantly, it fails to understand our common solution, namely CHRIST Himself. For "great is the mystery of Godliness: God was manifested in the flesh, Justified in the Spirit, seen by angels, preached among the Gentiles, believed on in the world, Received up in glory." (1 Timothy 3:16).

Jesus IS our Godliness!

He is our righteousness. He is our WAY out. He is our ability to live like Him. What we need ultimately is to gaze, stare at, consider, learn, meditate, rest, trust, obey and abide in HIM. This is how we grow and live. Spending time attempting to better understand our sinful patterns is only a trick of the enemy. Getting together with people with the same problem with the devil, flesh and the world can be dangerous in that it can tempt us to continue the sin stronghold. Contemporary psychology uses this type of technology, but becoming like Christ is achieved by spending time with HIM. He alone can change our hearts and we need only to abide, learn and grow in HIM alone.

Don't believe the lie of sin. You don't need to understand your sin - only learn Christ's way of thinking for every situation. Trust in Christ's deliverance. Run from the flesh and seek Him when you are tempted. Rest in Him, enjoy Him, love Him and learn Him. Re-occupy your mind with the risen savior of Glory!

Blessed Hate Speech

2008-05-23T22:06:00.006-05:00

In urban slang, the term, "hater" has been popularized. It is a noun that refers to someone who wants to discredit you, defame you or minimize your accomplishments. "Haters" are jealous people who would like to see you getting less, being less, or having less.

"Hate speech" is what the world calls any thing that is not tolerant, regardless of merit. In 21st century America, Hate speech can lead to fines or criminal action. For example, To call someone who is a homosexual a "sinner", could be deemed as "hate speech".

But let's take another look at the word "hate". I can think of two scriptural examples when hate is actually blessed and good.

As Chist-lovers, we are to hate those things that strap us to this earthly space and time. Christ commended the church of Ephesus because they hated the deeds of the Nicolaitans (Rev 2:6). Or what about in Zechariah when our Lord says..." Let none of you think evil in your heart against your neighbor; and do not love a false oath, for all these are things that I hate." (Zechariah, 8:17). In these cases we ought to hate these things because our Lord hates them too. So you can see how Hate is encouraged when it is in alignment with our Christ's thinking.

In the same way, hatred of us is expected when we behave like the Lord. Jesus said, "Blessed are you when men hate you, and when they exclude you and revile you..."(Luke 6:22). In Truth we are blessed when we are in the world's hatred. God is pleased with us when we are hated for the reason of being identified with his Son; in essence we are blessed while reviled. This type of hatred lets us know we are acting like our great High Priest, King, Savior and Brother Jesus Christ. The corollary can also be argued, namely that when the world loves us, we are not looking like Christ (Luke 6:26).

I don't desire to be hated, but I do desire to look like Christ. So bring the haters on!

I will Bless the Lord at All Times

2008-05-20T16:34:00.002-05:00

My soul shall make its boast in the Lord; humble shall hear of it and be glad. I had a great time in worship with the saints of God this weekend. An awesome time of singing, considering, blessing and speaking of the Lord's goodness. He is great and greatly to be praised.

There are so many things we could boast in, but none of them are valid boasts. We could boast in position, our money, our looks, our intelligence. But all of this is vanity. But to boast in the Lord. In the Grace we have received from HIM. This is a great thing. Our soul longs to have a true "boast", and it often seeks to speak of greatness in the wrong object. By boasting in the wrong things, we find emptiness. But when we boast in the Lord, or in our own weaknesses, we find strength. For even when we boast in HIM in our weakness, HE is made strong.

Our God is an awesome God. Worthy of boasting, praise, preeminence. May the Lord Jesus Christ be blessed at all times.

Lucy and a pocket knife

2008-05-18T20:48:00.007-05:00

I went to go see Prince Caspian with my wife this weekend. The second installment of the Hollywood version of C.S. Lewis' Chronicles of Narnia was very entertaining - I enjoyed it.

My favorite part in Prince Caspian is a scene toward the end of the movie. The other child kings are struggling to fight their enemy. while Lucy, representing sincere, childlike faith heads out to meet her savior companion, Aslan the Lion (Aslan is Lewis' Christ figure in Narnia).

When Lucy returns she comes face to face with the enemy army at a great river. At first you only see Lucy, facing the enemy army, seemingly alone. She pulls out a pocket knife in the face of a powerful enemy. Her enemy has soldiers, spears, arrows and horses, but Lucy stands confident, unafraid, and undaunted at the edge of the river. Why? She is not alone. Aslan is with her.

We ought to have Lucy-like faith. She was willing to take on an army of enemy warriors with a pocket knife as long as Aslan is by our side. Our Lord Jesus Christ IS by our side. He is able to do exceedingly abundantly beyond what we may ask or think. He is our true Lion of the Tribe of Judah, and even in the midst of temptation, persecution and struggles, He is able to keep us and strengthen us with His power and life.

Give me Jesus and a pocket knife! Our Christ is all.

Consistant Agape

2008-05-17T15:51:00.002-05:00

John 14:15 reads, "If you love me you will keep my commands".

Here keep means to observe, to guard, to carefully attend to. This is how God himself defines love. It is the consistent willingness to obey, follow his Word. To truly treasure his character and commands in the heart and to attentively seek to keep it consistently and without compromise.

So then, when I am loving God, He is looking for a heart that is constantly bent toward himself. As I love my neighbors, He is looking for consistent willingness to interact with, love and care for my neighbor in accordance with the commands of scripture. As we keep his "commands", we are not merely attending to an impersonal set of rules or laws. Rather, we are personifying the mind of God. We are actualizing the person of the Lord Jesus Christ. We are laying hold to his Life, his Truth and his Ways.

If we Love God, we must carefully attend to His Word. And His Word IS the Lord Jesus Christ. Let us consider and obey the Living Word who is God in who became a man, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Men love Shine, Christ IS Shine

2008-05-16T20:14:00.004-05:00

Tonight I watched a VH1 special about the African diamond trade in Sierra Leone. It was a trip. The special took a number of American rappers to Sierra Leone to see first hand the impact of the diamond trade on the country. The documentary then popped back and forth to feature quotes, videos and excerpts from rappers who loved the "bling-bling".

Well here are a few observations. First of all, this documentary was done by VH1. VH1, MTV and BET are the prime proponents of the videos that features rappers, rock stars and pop stars sporting expensive clothes, diamonds and gold. If they are not supportive of this stuff, then why do they play all of the videos of the stars who wear the bling? Secondly, it was a trip to watch these rappers go to very poor areas of Africa. They were speechless when they tried to explain the atrocities that happened during the civil war in Sierra Leone. Basically, they had no world-view that could explain the unbridled evil of men.

Men are evil. They will do anything for money and power. And when we focus on riches from the world no matter what the cost we are feeding into the world system that abuses the poor to provide for the rich. Just because we live in America, can we disconnect our selves from the poor child in Sierra Leone, South Africa or Botswana who is digging for diamonds all day for a dollar a day?

We don't need worldly bling. It is just a cheap attempt to bring glory to men. Any glory that will be ascribed, should only be from our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. One day, he will glorify believers who have trusted in Him. He alone is worthy of Glory. Men love earthly shine, but it is a dim, cheap imitation in comparison to our matchless, bright, every glowing Savior and Creator Jesus the Christ! He is the Light of the World.

Church Segmentation, Part 4 - Church on Sunday, Teach on Wednesday

2008-05-16T20:04:00.004-05:00

Have you noticed that most churches adopt a philosophy of ministry that divides Sunday teaching and Wednesday teaching into two categories?

Usually, Sunday teaching is geared toward the masses. Now of course I am stereotyping, but most "mainline" churches have a "service" on Sunday that is geared toward attracting new believers, unbelievers and the tradionally "churched". What do these groups expect? Well, these new, non and traditional folks normally expect something similar to the "church" they see on TV and the movies. Give me some slamming music, a cultural message and the ability to sit and absorb without being involved in any manner. This is what the masses really want on Sunday. They want to be able to say, "We had church this week" and then go back to their regular, Christ-excluding lives on Monday through Saturday.

But where did we get this model? Is it scriptural? Did the believers in the bible meet in this manner?

The early church devoted themselves to prayer, the breaking of bread (Lord's Supper), the Apostles Doctrine and fellowship. They spent time with one another, fellowshipping in Christ. The were devoted to praying together. They were devoted to teaching, especially the Apostle's doctrine. This "Apostle's doctrine" was basically the content of New Testament Teaching. And of Course the New Testament includes Old Testament teaching, but the focus of "Apostle's Doctrine" has always been the revelation of the Lord Jesus Christ taught as our Messiah, God, Savior, Redeemer, King -- plainly, Christ our Life.

In the 21st Century American church, teaching is normally relegated to Wednesday night, bible study. Most people don't even go to bible study, so at most churches, "bible study" plays second to Man centered, thematic teachings on topics the average unbeliever wants to learn more about. "How can I improve my financial status?", "What can I do to improve my Marriage", "How can I raise my kids better?", And if you want to be spiritual, what about "Ten ways to improve my prayer life".

Don't allow the world to shape worship. It is purely Christ-centered. He wants all of our attention. He is revealed in the Scriptures -- let's bring our time of worship back to solely focus on Him.

Too Much of a Good Thing

2008-05-15T18:11:00.004-05:00

Our God gave us work. But it can have an inappropriate place in your life. I have been at work for the past few days. For Sunday - Thursday, I have been working about 16 hours a day (6:00am-10pm), for this week. Work is good, but life is so much more than work. Zoe life is only found in our Lord Jesus Christ. This is the abundant life that IS the Lord Jesus Christ. We can only be truly living when we are IN HIM. So He is in fact our Life and He in fact will appear and bring us to glory!

So until then, don't seek the approval of men, but of God. Work is cool - God gave it to us. I thank the Lord for my work, but it took up too much of my time this week.

Our Lord Jesus Christ give us "good works prepared for us before hand that we should walk in them" (Ephesians 2:10). So let us seek after these works and avoid vanity.

Christ is all!

Christ is the Protagonist of the Bible

2008-05-07T21:00:00.002-05:00

If you follow-the blog, you know that my church held...A Christocentric Conference a few weeks ago. Perhaps one of my favorite lines of the conference was..."Jesus is the protagonist of the Bible."

The scriptures put it like this, "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. " (Colossians 1:18)

or, John 5:39 "You search the scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me."

So what is the definition of a Protagonist? "The leading character, hero, or heroine of a drama or other literary work."

The scriptures, speak of HIM. He is preeminent in the scriptures. Jesus is the Protagonist of the Bible. It is all about HIM and HIM Alone. We do truly have the mind of Christ in the scriptures! Jesus is the Word of God (Rev. 19:13).

Away with the Men-pleasers

2008-05-07T20:56:00.002-05:00

Ephesians 6:5 says..."Bondservants, be obedient to those who are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in sincerity of heart, as to Christ; not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart"

I love this verse, but I fear that sometimes I am a "man-pleaser"

We learn so much about the mind of Christ from this verse. The Lord loves sincerity, he looks at the heart, and he hates it when people "suck-up to men". You know what "sucking-up" is, right? He wants our behavior to be the same in the presence of authority as when we are alone. He expects us to act in a consistent manner, no matter who is looking. At the core, He is interested in the state of our heart; the purity of our motives. He is actually not concerned at all at what men do in public when they are on display, but the Lord is interested in the purity of our faith and interest in obedience when no one is looking. Why? Because He loves sincerity, heart worship toward Him.

I don't want to be a man-pleaser, but I fear that at times I am. Lord may I be who you want me to be - in my heart.

Myanmar needs Missionaries

2008-05-05T21:23:00.003-05:00

It is estimated that perhaps 10,00 people could have died this week in Myanmar as a result of the cyclone.

The recent cyclone in Myanmar should redouble our interest in missions. Often I hear Christians talk about "what about the guy in the amazon who has never heard of Jesus?" I find the scriptures teaching, "How then shall they call on Him 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?" (Romans 10:14) Or perhaps the most under quoted verse that is near the most quoted verse in the new testament (next to "judge not lest you be judged"),

"He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God" (John 3:18).

So we need to have the heart of Christ to those who have not heard of Him. The harvest is ripe, but the Laborers are few. Lord use me to go, to send and to support the laborers that your harvest may be harvested.

job schmob

2008-05-05T14:31:00.002-05:00

Do you really think Jesus cares alot about your Job? What promotion did you receive? What is your payrate? Did God open up the door for that new office?

I have been struggling with these issues y'all. I know that our Lord wants us to work as unto Him. I know that He desires excellence, but I am becoming convinced that as workers in America that we are entirely too career focused. We go back to school to get better jobs. We fight for promotions. We read books on getting a pay raise. We love titles. The fact of the matter is, the concern of scripture is merely that we are content with our level of financial gain (1 Timothy 6:16) and we serve our earthly masters with respect and reverence (Colossians 3:22). This is the mind of Christ.

But although we know this, rather than aiming our prayers at assistance and grace to live out what we know to be our Lord's will, we focus on many other issues of promotion, status, pay raise, fairness etc. on our daily jobs.

Well, I am coming to think that much of this is vanity.

Our contentment is to be found in Christ, not in our earthly jobs. Our Lord lived a simple life that was not focused on earthly financial or corporate gain.

Their Foolish Hearts were Darkened

2008-05-04T22:33:00.004-05:00

I went to see Ben Stein's movie Expelled, No Design Allowed, tonight with my wife. It was an interesting film. The basic premise of the film is that Darwinist Evolutions in school systems and universities do not even allow other scientists to consider whether or not our universe has a designer. Stein argues that when people propose an argument from "intelligent design", they are censured in the academic community and run the risk of being ostracized.

Perhaps the most interesting thing about the movie is a scene that features Richard Dawkins and Ben Stein. Richard Dawkins wrote a book called The Blind Watchmaker, that is perhaps the most popularly read contemporary book on Neo-Darwin evolution theory. Strangely however, in Expelled, Dawkins admits that it is very possible that the first cell was "seeded" by a being of higher intelligence. He, himself, states that he believers it is very possible that their is an intelligent originator of the Universe. While he says he does not believe the first cell was created by an intelligent designer, he concedes that it is possible that an intelligent originator was behind the first development of a cell. It is hard to believe that this person cannot see the disconnect in their own thinking. Dawkins has been debating against all who propose Intelligent Design for years and now it seems that he admits that the origin of life could be in an intelligent designer. Of course, however, Dawkins is positive that there is no possible way this intelligent designer could be God of the bible.

Well, check out the clip below and consider the following verses from the scriptures as you watch the clip.

John 1:3. "All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made."

Colossians 1:16, "For By Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him"

or as concerning the Jewish unbeliever, 2 Cor. 3:15 - "But even to this day, when Moses is read a veil lies on their heart..." or Romans 1:21-22., "because although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts and their foolish hearts were darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools..."

Ben Stein on Expelled

Cavalier use of the Term "Christian"

2008-05-01T23:07:00.004-05:00

I totally expect the world to sin. But the extent to which secular "Christianity" has attempted to defame our Lord Jesus Christ is sickening. Perhaps Satan's main strategy is to get people to attend non-Christ focused churches. There is nothing more difficult than to have to de-program strongholds that have been set by the devil in a secular American church. Check out this video from the Passion for the Christ Movement - Video.

Jesus made Clay

2008-05-01T22:36:00.003-05:00

I have been fascinated with the passage about The Christ in John 9. Jesus makes clay on the sabbath and then instructs a blind man to go wash and see. What an amazing story. First of all, Jesus, Lord of the Sabbath instructs the blind man to "go wash". He also "makes clay". The pharisees viewed this as Jesus obstructing the sabbath. Strangely whenever the Levites worked on the sabbath they did not consider them as defiling the Sabbath, but whenever Jesus, the High Priest of the tribe of Melchizadek did these things they accused The Christ as a Sabbath breaker.

I love the part of the story where the blind man is found by Jesus. "Do you believe in Son of God" Jesus asks the man. He replies, "Who is He Lord that I may believe in Him." Jesus' response "You have both SEEN Him and He is talking with You."

In a very real sense, this man SAW His salvation. One of the first sights he saw was the Lord Jesus Himself. He had been healed by Christ, but was sent to the pool to wash. As a result, He knew He was healed by Jesus, but had never seen Him. Then Jesus found Him. Unsaved, yet seeing - Jesus then Helped Him to see Spiritually. What an amazing day for the man! Starting the day blind spiritually and physically, ending the day seeing the Son of the Living God both spiritually and physically.

What an awesome God.

simple Gospel

2008-05-01T22:29:00.002-05:00

I have been accused of sharing a gospel that is both too complicated and too simple. To the evidence-centric crowd, when they hear that I don't look for some sort of "outward demonstration of an inward reality", they normally accuse me of teaching "easy believism". But I do preach belief as the sole means of salvation - I just believe it to be impossible apart from Grace from God (Ephesians 2:8-9).

On the other hand when I insist that one must believe that Jesus is true Deity, the Only Son of God; God in the Flesh, I am normally accused of being too theological. I am told, "You can't expect people to understand all theology when they get saved". Well, this "theology" is imperative to salvation. For if we do not believe that Jesus is that "I AM" we are told we will die in our Sins. We are believing that Jesus is LORD. Not simply "Lord of my life". Or "my co-pilot", or "my master" -- but when we say LORD we mean it in the sense of the scriptures. That He is THE LORD, or Yahweh. The true and living God. Jesus is LORD (capital letters).

So this the simple gospel we preach. Jesus is THE LORD God, become man, died and buried, rose on the third Day, demonstrated to be the Christ, the Son of God! We preach that we obtain this salvation through belief...not works, not demonstrating a belief, but simply through faith. It is this truth about the Lord Jesus we confess: Who He is (Christ, God-man), and What He has done (Died, Buried, Risen Indeed).

This is our simple gospel that is received by simple means - belief.

Christ is all.

Church Segmentation - Part 3

2008-04-28T09:14:00.001-05:00

Do you go to an urban, youth centered church? What about a seeker sensitive, suburban middle class outlet? I go to an interracial, non-denominational, contemporary worship experience. I know people who attend traditional, Afrocentric, middle-class African American churches. My wife used to attend a contemporary styled, seeker-focused island worship experience. I have a lot of friends who also attend Vatican II influenced, American Catholic inner-city churches.

Why do we seek to develop a list of category descriptions when talking about our church.

I think CHRIST is enough. I go to a church where we are seeking to uplift, learn and study the Lord Jesus Christ. I want to be more like Jesus Christ, that's it. No titles, no segments, no marketing terms -- just Jesus Christ. Let's drop the titles -- it's not a cliche, but let's just focus on the Lord Jesus Christ.

Work While it is Day

2008-04-28T08:58:00.006-05:00

Notice the urgency of our Lord's statement...John 9:4 - "I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work."

Raised a "protestant" I believe we some times under emphasize the importance of works. Of course we believe our work has no part in purchasing our salvation. This was achieved by the final, perfecting work of our Lord Jesus Christ (John 19:30, Eph 2:8-9). But now that we are saved, so much of what we do is to "work out our salvation in fear trembling" (Philippians 2:12). For we were created unto good works (Ephesians 2:10).

The Lord Jesus had an intense focus to work the works of His Father. He observed the works of His Father and then was diligent to work them out. He did ALL the Father commanded and He did ONLY What the Father commanded (John 8:38) - Nothing more, nothing less. The Son had a Father-centric Focus with respect to His work. In the same way we should have a SON-centric focus with respect to our works. We should fulfill ALL His works as they pertain to our ministry and ONLY His works. All that is not Christ is flesh and vanity; unedifying to His body.

Furthermore, the Lord was aware that we only have a limited time to work these works. For the time is soon coming when we will no longer be able to work for Him.

Work urgently.

Christ is all!

He is Selflessly Self-Centered

2008-04-25T16:56:00.002-05:00

Jesus Christ is the only man who has ever lived that is both Self-less and Self-Centered. He was fully consumed with His purpose (not other's). He was consumed with His Father's will which was to reveal Himself to humanity. As a result He had to be focused on other's good. But HE IS good. He is the only Good humanity will ever know. So as a result, in order to be loving of humanity, He had to focus the world on Himself.

So He said things like "I am the Bread of Life...", "Abide in ME", "MY yoke is easy", "I am the Good Shepherd", "I AM".

Jesus was solely focused on His Father which resulted in instructing others to be focused on Himself. But He was also self-less. "I lay down my life for the sheep", "As the Father loved me, I also have loved you" or He "made Himself of no reputation." He was totally selfless!

He is the Selflessly Self-Centered Servant.

No Justice on Earth

2008-04-25T16:48:00.004-05:00

My dad was a police officer. I have a high degree of respect for the profession. I believe that Christians should pray for and honor the authorities God has allowed to reign over us. But some events make it clear that humans are unable to appropriately and consistently administer justice. This week's trial of a New York bachelor who was gunned down on his wedding day was stunning. The guy was at a strip club, a misunderstanding ensued and he was shot dead by a group of undercover police officers. In fact he was shot 16 times. However, the police officers claimed that they did not know the man was unarmed and were acquitted earlier today.

We expect the government to serve in a just manner. In fact, as earthly governments go, the United States may be relatively considered as one of the more fair court systems internationally (in the 21st century that is), however when men exclude God we find it impossible to understand what effective ruling is.

We will be redeemed by a righteous judge. When our righteous judge takes the throne, he will accurately judge men. Not only by their works, but He will also judge their hearts. He will judge us according to our motive and will have full knowledge of our thoughts and actions. He will even understand our motives for doing good. By justice He will punish the wicked. By grace He will grant mercy to the undeserving. And when He rules we will be able to say there is justice on earth.

As for now, we have to deal with the despair of living in a world that loves darkness.

Christ High

2008-04-23T10:28:00.003-05:00

I got a Christ-high last weekend. The eurphoria that comes when richly dwelling in the Word of the Lord. We are to enjoy the Lord Jesus Christ with frequency. I learned last week that I need to greatly increase my Christ intake. I was studying the scriptural passage, "The the Word of Christ dwell richly within you..." (Colossians 3:16). This is a beautiful passage.

The Word (logos) that is Christ (the Word of God, the Second person of the Trinity who became flesh) needs to dwell in us richly. This is Christ within us in plurality. We can experience HIM in a variety of ways. Through teaching, admonition, wisdom, through Songs, Hymns. However you see it, this passage is encouraging us to increase our Christ intake, our Christ reflection, our Christ thinking, our Christ reading (in the Word), our Christ obedience. It is an ongoing, rich indwelling in specific, practical ways. We do have the mind of Christ, but we must let the Lord Jesus (logos) richly (plurally) dwell in our hearts and minds on an ongoing basis.

When I think of this passage, I imagine the Lord Jesus Himself walking around in our hearts, looking for things that need to be changed, sharing who He is with me, challenging me to let my flesh die -- I think of Jesus (the Word) Himself actively sharpening me, changing me and dictating my life.

I need more times of Christ High. I want more of Him to dwell within me practically.

A Christocentric Conference

2008-04-15T21:57:00.002-05:00

Have you ever been to a Christian Marriage Conference? What about a Men's conference? OUr church holds a women's retreat every year. Christians gather together for unique ministry causes frequently. But have you ever been to "A Christocentric Conference".

This is conference is unique in that the sole, unique, exclusive focus of the time we will spend is on the person of the Lord Jesus Christ.

The Conference will be held at:

Christ Bible Church
7877 S. Coles Ave
Chicago, IL

Wednesday 7-9 PM
Thursday 7-9 PM
Friday 7-9 PM
Saturday 9 AM- 3PM
Sunday 8 AM and 11 PM

A variety of teachers from Chicago, Detroit, Indiana PA, and Reading PA will be teaching during the confercne including:

James Ford Jr.
Romell Williams Jr.,
Timothy Metcalf
Rick Reilly
Troy McIntosh
Chris Salley
Mike Thompson
Dwight Knight

Come out and celebrate the Lord Jesus Christ with us.

I need a Mediator...

2008-04-12T23:04:00.004-05:00

Can you imagine having to talk to God on your own merits? Where would you start? How would you start the conversation? On what basis would you begin the discussion?

I find that as I read the scriptures, our God is totally omnipotent and holy. The combination of all power and all holiness has always been amazing to me. But he also strikes a fear in my heart. I really don't find myself very intimidated when speaking to men, I mean, they are men just like me. But God is a being of an entirely different, holy, and infinitely exalted class. How do I develop a relationship with Him?

Glory be to God we have a mediator. There is only one mediator between God and man and that is the man Christ Jesus (1 Timothy 2:5). Our mediator is familiar with our estate (Hebrews 4:15), yet holy to engage with the God of the universe. In fact He is a man and God at the same time (Hebrews 9:15, Philippians 2:5-8). He has experienced temptation from sin, yet never yielded -- not once (Hebrews 4:15). He has shed tears and felt pain, but his troubles never forced Him to behave anything less than patient, compassionate and loving. Our mediator will not compromise His own values. Unlike the attorneys on Boston Public or Law and Order, He always knew his client was guilty, yet never had to lie to defend Him. His mediation is not through wisdom of words, crafty arguments or high priced scientific experts; but rather, He is his own mediation. He mediates through His own blood, His own perfect life. In fact, as our mediator, He wins our case, not because He proves our innocence, but He BECOMES our righteousness (Jeremiah 33:16). Innocence, while pure has not been tested -- Righteousness has already proved itself to be worthy of honor and praise. And we do give all of our praise and honor to our righteous mediator, Jesus the Christ.

I need Peace

2008-04-10T17:30:00.001-05:00

I think one of the Satan's main tactics is to occupy us. This is not a direct, but an indirect tactic. If I am thinking about the world, I can become ensnared there in. If I am not thinking about Christ I cannot rest. I need peace. I need the opportunity to simply contemplate Jesus. I need Jesus to help me to abide in Him, even in the midst of crazy things happening around me.

Right about now, I am tired, weary, easily distracted...so I am about to get into my scriptures, think about Him, listen to some music...meditate on my savior. I need peace -- So I think it is time to go to the Prince who owns all peace.

Satan opens doors too...

2008-04-08T12:45:00.004-05:00

Jesus Christ is the who one who sets before us, "an open door and no one can shut it" (Rev. 3:8). When Jesus opens a door, no one can shut it. But I have often heard people speak as if Satan does not "open" doors.

What I mean is that, just because you have an opportunity does not necessarily mean that God has given you the opportunity. In fact, often times opportunities are afforded us that we may reject them in the name of Jesus Christ. Jesus wants to be our exclusive choice. He will often allow an opportunity that tests our dedication to Him -- but just because we have an opportunity does not mean that we should necessarily take it.

I constantly hear believers say..."The Lord gave me that job", "God gave me that husband" -- "If it was sin, why did God bring it my way..." This assumes that all life is a set of doors opened directly by the Lord Jesus. But actually, Satan tempts us and is allowed to direct us to follow choices that ultimately deny him. In fact, it does not even have to be a direct denial of our Savior, but merely something that shifts our focus away from him for a time. This is Satan's way.
He has his own schemes and we must be aware of his trickery that is aimed to ensnare us.

Read this scriptures and consider this question, "What opportunities have been afforded me that I should not have exercised"?
1 Kings 13:11-31

How do we avoid these schemes? Sound doctrine in Christ. The Wisdom of the Word, the Wisdom of God. The person of the Lord Jesus Christ as our teaching.

Ephesians 4:14

Jesus is Sufficient

2008-04-07T14:44:00.003-05:00

The Scriptures clearly teach that The Word of God is sufficient for every good work. But do we really act believe this?

Most true believers would quickly say, "Yes", but evidence otherwise is pervasive, especially in 21st Century American church settings. Many Christian claim to be based on the scriptures, but the question is, do they utilize the scriptures exclusively. For example, when you pick up a book from Tyndale House, are you certain the writers have a Bible-based, Christocentric mindset? When you read something from Moody Press, how do you know the teaching found therein comes directly and ONLY from the scriptures? Many may simply trust the publisher, the editors, the reputation of the organization; but I am not sure we can.

I find that normally, even mainstream evangelical Christian writers, tend to mix "truths" (please note the quotes) from Business (Marketing, Sales Tactics), Psychology, Sociology, Materialstic Science (Biology, Chemistry and Geology that leaves out God) in what they have to say about the condition of man. Rather than relying on Christ alone for their "way" of defining, analyzing and solving problems, they rely on other ways of men.

We do not need other ways to live. Jesus Christ is THE Way, THE Truth and THE Life. There is no other WAY, no other TRUTH, no other Life that is found outside of HIM.

He is the Word of God.
He is Sufficient.
He is what we need.
He is ALL we need.

Do not add to HIM

The Slippery Slope of Demonic Yoking

2008-04-07T09:57:00.007-05:00

Much has been made the last few days in the secular media regarding the marriage of Beyonce and Jay-Z. I don't really care much about it "personally", but I am concerned about the unequal yoking of a believer and an unbeliever. The story of Beyonce and Jay-Z seems to mirror that of many path many young women believers choose to take in their lives...

The Path of Unequally Yoking with an Unbeliever
1. Meet an unsaved person who "treats them 'nice'"
2. Ask them..."Are you saved" - to which the unsaved person says..."Yes"
3. Develop a relationship based on relational affinity rather than Christ.
4. Find a carnal pastor to do your pre-marital counseling; and/or reject the counsel of Godly men and women in your life
5. Fall in love, thus negating your ability to look at the person through a biblical, Christ-centered lens
6. Become disenchanted with marriage, God and Christ when your marriage does not work out as planned

In the case of many young believers, unequal yoking begins in dating, moves on to engagement and continues on to marriage. Unfortuanely the heart of the believer was unequally yoked to the world long before the marriage took place.

I don't know if Beyonce is a believer in the person of Jesus Christ, but when Destiny's Child was originally signed to a major label deal, the members were a part of a growing church in Atlanta, talked alot about their commitment to purity, and spoke about regular times of devotion and bible study while on the road. Their first album had a version of "Total Praise", and their music was focused more on relationships vs. sex (although the first album already demonstrated that the slippery slope has already begun.)

Now five years and several Bootylicious shows later, it seems that Beyonce has been fully conformed into this world, forsaking the Lord Jesus Christ in this decision to marry a man who calls himself J-hovah. This is the typical path of the seed that falls in thorny ground; the Love of money, ways of the world and other vain distractions choke the fruitfullness of the Word of God in the life of the believer.

Don't believe the hype y'all -- Anti-Christ is real in the world today, don't get it twisted. Check out this article.

Church Segmentation part 2

2008-04-04T12:48:00.002-05:00

I was discussing this topic with a friend of mine at church last night. The thing is, the scriptures do seem to segment believers in terms of need at some points. Widows and orphans are given a unique need arena. Older women are instructed to teach the younger women. Older men are instructed to pray continually. Children are instructed to listen to their parents.

But on the other hand the business of growing in discipleship seems to be happening while the saints are united together. I am concerned that we as a 21st century body often do too much work to segment and group ourselves according to our own felt needs. This becomes problematic. Why? Because although we are trying to meet unique needs...

1. Over time, people begin to think the church ought be aimed and focused on them. In other words, people begin to make decisions about spiritual matters according to fleshly interests. "This church doesn't have a strong singles ministry...", "I need to go to a church with better worship...", "Marriages are struggling, so we need to do something in Married ministry...", "we need a business development ministry for those who want to build their businesses..." "we need a youth ministry that uses contemporary music..." and the talk goes on and on.

2. We start to forget that the goal of each "segment" is to be like Christ. There is one goal. We are a body with many "members". Segmentation is a marketing term. "Members" is a biblical term. When I think of you as a "member" of a body, there is a sense of togetherness; being a part of a whole. Most importantly, as "members" we are all submitted and under the head who is Christ. We are all moving in one direction, Chirst likeness. As different members, "Christ-likeness", may take on different ministries. It is worked out in different ways. I am a teacher, you may be an exhorter, another is gifted in giving -- but we have one aim that is Christ.

Watch your church. Be sure it stays focused on the Head which is Christ, not Marketing Segments.

Jesus, the Sin Bearer

2008-04-02T21:07:00.005-05:00

I enjoy simply pondering and discussing things about Jesus.
Not for the sake of theological debate, but to occupy and fill my mind with the wondrous works of my savior.

A few days ago I had a conversation with a close friend of mine about the nature of Christ's sin bearing. We spent about 15 minutes discussing "did the Lord become sinful or did he merely bear our sins?"...I concluded, I simply do not understand the nature of the Lord's substitution for us.

What I have concluded is that I am simply amazed by the nature of the Lord's substitutionary death. The fact that he actually bore the sins of all mankind is amazing to me. His willingness to do this for a being that is infinitely less than Himself is truly outstanding. I never get tired of thinking and meditating on this fact. The fact that he did consider equality with God something to be grasped but would actually give himself willingly for death on a cross -- a most shameful, painful, and degrading death (Philippians 2:5-8). Not only has he done this in the past, but we can boldly come to the throne of grace to receive mercy and grace in the time of need (Hebrews 4:16).

All our sins and griefs to bear...

The Shekinah Location

2008-04-01T10:37:00.003-05:00

Exodus 24:16 reads..."Now the glory of the Lord rested on Mount Sinai, and the cloud covered it six days. And on the seventh day He called to Moses out of the midst of the cloud." Moses was IN the cloud. He experienced the Shekinah Glory of the Lord first hand.

During His earthly ministry, Christ taught that The Temple was representative of His body (John 2:16). The Jew considered the Temple as the exclusive location of worship (and it was), however the temple's physical location only provided a type of the true location of worship, namely Christ himself. 2 Chronicles 7:1 reads, "and the glory of the Lord filled the Temple". Just as in Solomon's day, the Glory of the Lord filled the earthly temple in Jerusalem, the glory of the Lord has filled our Savior Jesus Christ's bodily "temple" (Matthew 17:2; John 1:14). .

The place of worship is the Lord Jesus Christ Himself (John 4:23-24). He is the only true and perfect sacrifice and in turn has become the exclusive location of Worship and Glory to God. Now as members of His body, we can live IN HIM. We can enjoy worship in the Shekinah Location that is the Lord Jesus Christ!

So now then enter into His Gates with thanksgiving and into his Courts with praise! (Psalm 100:4)

You supposed to be dead and The Spirit is the prime suspect

2008-03-31T23:08:00.006-05:00

In this walk we are dead to sin. But then why do we strive to so quickly live therein?

Our life in Christ is a battle to constantly put to death thinking patterns, strongholds, rebellions, habits, behaviors that seek to resurrect the old man. Isn't my old man dead by the Spirit in Christ? Hasn't Christ put to death the evil deeds of the old man?

Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ has traded beauty for ashes (Isaiah 61:3). We have received righteousness in the Lord Jesus Christ - He IS our righteousness (Rom 5:21, Philippians 3:9). By the Spirit we put to death the deeds of the body (Romans 8:13). I know in my own life, I struggle to try to put these deeds to death by my own flesh. While my flesh can maintain an unspiritual "righteousness" according to the flesh, this power to put to death the deeds of the body must be accomplished by the Spirit. My own efforts cannot kill the flesh, I cannot do it. I cannot be dead to the body unless the Spirit is the one who does the job.

But don't worry -- It's not a murder. Your flesh deserves to be dead, all it has done is reap the sin that deserves death. So if the Spirit has killed the flesh, it is well deserved. In fact, it is necessary. For if we live according to the flesh, we will die, but if by the Spirit we put to death the deeds of the body we will live -- oh what a promise that is found in HIM (Summary of Romans 8:13)

May my flesh be put to death by the Spirit to the end that I might be conformed to the image of the blessed Son of God.

You supposed to be dead

The Lord Jesus Christ hates Mindless Anthropocentric "Art"

2008-03-31T13:56:00.004-05:00

My sister Blair Wingo spit this at an event out west. As a reformed Afrocentrist, I truly appreciate this poem. Check it and give Christ alone glory.

Video

To Heal the Brokenhearted

2008-03-28T07:49:00.005-05:00

He has sent me to heal the broken hearted to proclaim liberty to the captives...to Console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; That they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified. Isaiah 61:1b, 3

Video

The Laying Aside

2008-03-28T07:35:00.003-05:00

I have a lot of stuff lodged in my basement. For example, I still have a collection of old Stevie Wonder cassettes (no LPs thank you). I have old books I bought and studied while in graduate school, none of which I still use today. My wife has gotten me out of the habit of saving old clothes, I give those away more quickly now. But I still have a tendency to want to keep or hold on to things I don't need.

1 Peter 2:1-3 reads..."Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking, a newborn babes desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious."

In the Christ-walk there is always a "laying aside" before there is a desire for Christ or a "putting on" (Ephesians 4:22, Romans 13:12). We must actively lay aside these speech patterns, thought patterns and desires for a new desire - namely our Lord and Christ. He is the pure milk of the Word that is worth being desired. This will not happen passively but requires a willingness to toss out, throw away or "cast off" the things that are not like Him.

Lord Jesus, gives us hearts as babes. Hearts that desire the purity that is YOU. Lord gives us hearts that reflect on your attributes, your person if indeed we have tasted that you are loving, gracious and merciful. Amen.

Christ is all.

Abide Today

2008-03-26T08:28:00.003-05:00

Make this a Lord Jesus Christ abiding day (John 5:4-9). May the Word of Christ dwell richly in you today (Col 3:16).

Rest in Him. Enjoy Him. Meditate on His word. If you have to work today, do it as unto the Lord. Meditate on the word today. Listen to music that edifies your soul in Him. Sing songs in your heart today that glorify Him.

Worship Him in the beauty of Holiness. Desire that His name alone would be praised. Fellowship with other believers today. Pray for the saints in need. Pray for missionaries who need support, guidance, and spiritual help. Pray for the persecuted church abroad. Give of yourself, your time, your money to exalt the person of Jesus Christ and edify the body. Call some you know is depressed to exhort them.

Share the gospel with someone who does not know him. Passionately share the gospel with an interest in the unbelieving person's soul and the Lord Jesus Christ's Kingdom.

Make this a Lord Jesus Christ abiding day.

Hard as Nails - Justin Fatica's Radical Ministry

2008-03-25T07:29:00.005-05:00

I am so encouraged by this ministry. It is led by a "Catholic" brother in Christ. Hard as Nails is a ministry aimed at exalting the Lord Jesus Christ through radical, authentic Christ focus. Check out the video and be edified. You may not agree with all of his tactics, but it is so rare that you see a young ministry sold out in this way...I find it encouraging.

Hard as Nails Ministry - Justin Fatica

Christ is all!

Christian Pragmatism

2008-03-24T22:47:00.007-05:00

Worldly Pragmatism and the Wisdom of Men often cloak themselves as THE Wisdom of God.

The world says, "the ends justify the means", whereas in Christ, the WAY is always as important as the ends. Church growth may be the true American Idol as churches seek to grow by any means necessary. I passionately believe that the body of Christ should be missions minded, evangelistic and concerned for the lost, but many churches have gone astray and sought the world's means of attraction, multiplication and increase rather than Christ's approach to church growth. Through the use of music, entertainment, needs-based ministry, and segmentation methods, we have sought to expand the church much like a business seeks to increase market share.

Have we forgotten that God gives the increase (1 Corinthians 3:7-8)? Have we forgotten that we must decrease and He must increase (John 3:30). True church growth is up to the Lord Jesus Christ. All He needs is faithful laborers (Matthew 9:37-38), not a different message or approach that emphasized communication style and emphasizing felt needs over the Word of God and the unadulterated gospel of Jesus Christ and Him crucified. The person of Jesus Christ, His Christ-hood, Deity, Death, and Bodily Resurrection and grace through the Holy Spirit is sufficient to bring many souls to Himself.

Jesus Christ and Him Crucified is the only message the Holy Spirit is interested in spreading.

Check out this video. Christian Pragmatism

Jeremiah Wright, Barack Obama and Other False Teachers

2008-03-24T08:43:00.003-05:00

The current controversy surrounding Barack Obama and his Pastor of 20 years, Jeremiah Wright, is quite fascinating. Even a fallen, Man-centered, unspiritual world has its consciences pricked by some of the rhetoric, hatred and hypocrisy that comes from the pulpit at "Trinity Church of Christ".

The is a misnomer to refer to this local social group as "Tritarian", "A Church" or "of Christ", for it is neither Worshiping the Triune God, functioning as a Body submitted to the Head (Christ) or teaching things that are according to or "of" Christ.

Jeremiah Wright is just another run-of-the-mill false teacher. Man is emphasized over Christ, the Sctiptures are used only as sermon content not as the errorless word of God and God is made into the image of man. As believers let us be ready to quickly re-center a dying, politic crazed world on the true King everlasting, the Lord Jesus Christ!

Check out this video excerpt that outlines the church's doctrinal statement.

TCC Doctrinal Statement on Fox.

Power to Lay It Down

2008-03-24T08:32:00.002-05:00

In John 10:18, Jesus speaks...

No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This command I have received from My Father.

Jesus is the only man born apart from Sin. Adam was created, the first man, Holy - Free from Sin. Jesus was Born apart from Sin by the Holy Spirit (not born of Adam, but His Father was God). As a Man who was free from Sin, He then led a sinless life. Jesus had the power to "Lay His Life down". None of us could simply decide to "Lay down" our life by our own will. Some may take their own lives by force, but Jesus had power to "lay it down."

Consider this unique power in relation to His passion. Jesus willingly accepted the suffering that came by Will of the Father on the Cross. He willingly stayed on the cross through pain, reproach, extreme suffering, the emotion and soul suffering of being "made sin" (2 Corinthians 5:21). And yet, he willingly stayed on the cross. Because He was perfect and apart from Sin, He could not die. Death comes through Sin and Jesus was sinless. He became sin, but had no sin of His own responsibility. Just as a blameless Lamb is slain to atone for sins, Jesus was the sinless sacrifice provided for the sins of all mankind (1 Peter 3:18) -- but He Himself was (and is) free from Sin.

He had to die on His own accord. He willingly stayed on the cross through the suffering, although He possessed "power to lay it down". Jesus did not bleed to death, He did not suffocate, Jesus did not die from the wounds He received for death was not in Him. He became sin and laid his life down for the Sheep (John 10:15). Only after it was finished did he commit his spirit to His Father's Hands (John 19:30).

The Law of your mouth: Reflections on Psalm 119:72

2008-03-20T10:36:00.005-05:00

Consider Psalm 119:72: The law of Your mouth is better to me Than thousands of coins of gold and silver.

Let us juxtapose these two desires. On the one hand we have "thousands of coins of gold and silver." Our salaries, our riches, our savings, our investments... We naturally desire riches. No one has to teach a young man or woman to desire such things. At a young age, we realize that in order to buy things, we need riches. Our sinful nature thinks..."Happiness = stuff = riches, therefore riches = happiness...let me get more riches". I remember a few months ago a young child of a friend of ours was at the house. She say a bunch of change on a table, grabbed it and started to put it into her pocket. Only about 2 1/2 years of age she said, "my money". Never mind the fact that you don't have to teach a young child to steal (we get all of these proclivities from the fall, but that is for another sermon), but the fact that at such a young age she desired money -- this is a symptom of our wickedness.

So from a young age we desire things. But as believers, we have come to know a "thing" that is better than "all things", namely the maker of all things, God Himself. The Law of Your Mouth. Whether in the Law, the prophets, the writings, the gospels, the acts, the epistles or the revelation, the Lord Jesus Christ IS the Word (John 1:1). To desire "the Law" is to desire Him. He is forever the Law of God, spoken, proclaimed and unique. We have learned in Him that He is more desirable than Thousands of coins of gold and silver.

Let us live in such a way that demonstrates His superiority to these things. Do not expect such desired to die away easily. We must put them to death; crucifying the old man, living in the New man that is Jesus Christ. Let us find creative ways to demonstrate to HIM that He is more important than our things. Let us find ways to distance ourselves from our things as our desire for HIM alone is magnified in our hearts.

Anthropocentric Youth Ministry

2008-03-15T02:59:00.008-05:00

Youth Ministry today is increasingly Anthropocentric. Anthro = man, Centric = central. Man is in the central. Although the focus ought to be the Lord and Savior, in an effort to become more relevant often the emphasis shifts to (our worst enemy) ourselves.

I was just looking at a promotional brochure for a national youth training event that has local chapters in different cities. As I was reviewing the event brochure and advertising I noticed something; or maybe I should say I didn't notice something.

There was no mention of Jesus.

Titles included sessions like..."Making your Youth Ministry Relevant, Reaching the Hip Hop Influenced Generation, Midriffs, Myspace & More: Engaging a Plugged-in Generation, Rebuilding the Fatherless Generation." Compare this to how the scriptures teach about effective ministry. You wont go more than two verses in a new testament epistle before you come across the terms, "Lord", "God", "Spirit", "He", "Jesus" or "Christ" pertaining to our infinitely worthy savior. The Godhead is always prominent and the Lord Jesus Christ is always exalted as the example we should pattern our lives after; He is the Author of our faith (Hebrews 5:9 and 12:2).

So we find this pattern in the Word of God; We learn how to be Christ-like not by studying men, but by studying Christ. Just as Moses, Peter, John, Isaiah or Paul were changed by simply viewing this matchlessly glorious Christ, let us to learn to focus, study and consider the Lord Jesus Christ deeply, directly, and diligently. Fixing our eyes on the savior ultimately shows me that I am a man of unclean lips and dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips, but that our Lord Jesus Christ is able to justify, sanctify and glorify me by His touch.

For insights from a youth ministry that strives to elevate Christ check out this article from The Yunion.

Generic God

2008-03-14T15:36:00.004-05:00

Have you ever noticed how sometimes people use the term "God" but other times they will specifically refer to "Jesus". I fully believe that our God is Triune in Nature. The Father, Son and Holy Spirit are forever to be praised. But I think that it is also important for believers to clearly delineate their belief in Jesus as the Son of God.

What defines our belief is that we believe that Jesus is Yahweh -- Jesus is Lord -- Jesus is God. But I find that people often retreat to a generic term "God". Am I being cynical here, or do some find it shameful to identify directly with Jesus the Christ. Most religions believe in some sort of "God-figure". Muslims, Jews, Hindus may all speak of God or Gods.

But we do not believe in a Generic "god". We trust in a personal, unique God found as, in and through Jesus the Christ. When one speaks specifically of Jesus as the Lord, a clear picture is painted regarding the personality, nature, statements, attributes and essence of God. Imagery about a man hanging on a cross comes to mind. Associations are made between the term "God" (vague, undefined, broadly described) and a specific, person who is the exact representation of the Father, namely Jesus Christ.

We worship a name brand savior, so let us speak specifically, not generically about our God. We believe in YHWH, triune, revealed in the person of the only unique Son, Jesus the Christ.

Church Segmentation

2008-03-11T07:21:00.002-05:00

Have you noticed that the church has taken on many marketing techniques? In the past I have worked close the world of marketing, so I am familiar with Marketing approaches and strategies.

In the past 25-30 years, marketing has consistently used a practice called segmentation. Basically, what that means is that you take an entire group of people (market) and divide them into sub-categories based on their buying and behavioral characteristics. For example, Young Women between the ages of 18-25 who live in Suburbia -- that may be considered a "segment". Or middle age white men between the ages of 45-60 could be considered a "segment" (there is much more we can say about this but this is not my point).

Have you noticed that within the last 20 years, Church's have used segmentation? Now of course there is some element of "segmentation" in the scriptures. For example, older women are to teach the older women how to love their husbands and children, to be busy at home, etc (Titus 2:34-5). But this seems to be more intentional and to go beyond what the scripture teaches. We have a number of specific ministries that seem to divide the church according to 1) felt need, 2) age; 3) gender; and 4) interest.

Singles ministries, hip hop youth ministries, married couples retreats, family-centered teachings, wealth building seminars, worship conferences, radio ministry cruises, African American Sunday school lessons, Women's study bibles. The church has attempted to segment according to meet need, but has this segmentation turned into fracturing? Have we become to anthropocentric rather than Centered on our savior who is Christ?

I am interested in your thoughts here. I have more to say in subsequent blogs, but for now, let's discuss in an interest of dwelling and reasoning together on-line in Jesus.

Christ is all.

The Self-existent one

2008-03-07T12:43:00.008-06:00

Nothing in our world is self-existent. Seasons change, people age, animals grow and then die. We try to define the age of rocks, soil, and trees - because we know nothing but a reality that is rooted in finite time. We know no other thing in this creation that is not impacted by the constant reality of time. In fact, I cannot even imagine a thing that is not impacted by time -- this is how pervasive it is to our concept of reality.

But...

Our Lord is not defined by time. If history is the study of things that happened in the past, can we even speak of the history of God? Does a being that has no beginning even have a history? Does the one who has no end have a future? He simply IS. He is the self-existent one. The Great I AM. He is the ancient of days "without genealogy having neither beginning of days or end of life, but made like the Son of God" (Hebrews 7:3). In this sense, we can say Jesus our Lord has no history, no true family genealogy with respect to his "Sonness".

Consider with awe, this Son of God with no end, no beginning, no origination, no starting point, no middle-point...HE simply IS.

Christ is all.

Pimpin Pastors (2) - 16 Bars Shai Linne's Response

2008-03-06T12:20:00.003-06:00

Peep this video of 16 bars from Shai Linne's. The empahsis is 1 Timothy 6:9-10.

Numbered among the Transgressors (2)

2008-03-06T08:06:00.005-06:00

Note the irony and beauty of Isaiah 53:12b, "and he was numbered with the Transgressors".

Christ was punished alongside those whom had sinned against HIM. Although Christ was living in the days of His flesh, He never ceased to be fully God. The Son being bruised for the sins of those who sinned against Him while those who sinned against Him were in the midst of Him!

Whether the criminals on the crosses on either side of Him, Simon of Cyrene who helped carry Christ's Cross, the Jews who hurled insults at Him, the Romans who nailed Him to the tree, Pilate who sentenced Him, the disciples who forsook Him, or the women who mourned for Him; Christ was dying for the sins of those who were in the midst of HIM.

Who knew that day that they were witnessing was an act being done in obedience to the Father but on their behalf?

We truly serve an awesome God. Our Christ was numbered among Transgressors (on the Cross), and also was found in flesh among Transgressors (all men). He did this that we might have Life in HIM.

Christ is all!

Pimpin Pastors (1)

2008-03-05T21:22:00.005-06:00

What does a pimp do?
He uses a woman - a human being - and treats her as merchandise. He uses the woman, calls her a "ho", puts her out there without any protection while failing to prepare her for the harsh realities of the street. At the end of the night he collects his money and beats her up if she doesn't have it. He wears fur coats, drives big cars and wears bling on his wrist and fingers while his "hos" work the street.

The sad thing is, these victimized young women think their pimps care about them, but really the pimp is only using her for his own needs.

We have a lot of pastors out here that are pimping their own flocks. They have taken the people they have been given to protect and have given them a message that does not protect them from the evil one. A message of peace and prosperity that does not protect them from this world's demonic influences, flesh and their own sin.

Pimpin Pastors are getting paid. They are selling a gospel of money instead of the Lord Jesus Christ. But, when will those in these churches wake up and realize that they are being pimped. In this video interview, even the world believes these things are extravagant. It is sad when the world knows that this work is not Christ-like.

The good shepherd "gives his life for his sheep" (John 10:11).

Christ is all!

Numbered among the Transgressors (1)

2008-03-05T12:41:00.005-06:00

Consider this verse: "...and He was numbered with the transgressors, and He bore the sin of many and made intercession for the transgressors. (Isaiah 53:12b).

Jesus was "numbered" among the transgressors. He was considered and punished as a sinner, an infidel, a revolutionary, one with no respect for authority. He was bruised as if He had broken the law of Rome and the Law of God. In fact, He was the writer of the Law of God and was being accused of being a law-breaker a "transgressor".

When carnal man came face-to-face with the only man that had actually kept the law, the only one who was actually perfect, he decided that This man (Jesus the Christ) was deserving of death. Jesus was thrown into the heap with other criminals. He was considered just another inmate; just another convict with an excuse. In fact, His case didn't even make it to the supreme court of Ceasar. He was handled locally as an everyday criminal and crucified with two other transgressors.

Our Savior the Lord Jesus truly suffered humiliation as He completed this perfect work.

Our God lives forevermore, this "God" has retired

2008-03-03T08:05:00.003-06:00

I found this short article about a Buddhist, Hindi "goddess". It reports the story about the recent "retirement" of a Buddhist child "Goddess". In this tradition they go through a process to identify one whom they believe is the reincarnation of an ancient goddess and view her as a "living goddess". I think the most demonic line is in the end when a relative says "we are trying to find a replacement for Sajani". Just another God defined by men, chosen by men and worshipped by men. And after tall of that, she can simply decide to "retire" and no longer be a "goddess".

Praise our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ who forever lives to make intercession for us. He is the Ancient of Days without beginning or ending. The Author and Finisher of our Faith.