Connection Fellowship
May 17, 2009
Living in Freedom
Galatians 1:1-10
Introduction
Today, we begin a new series of messages in the NT book of Galatians. As we begin, it may be helpful for us to understand a bit of its context. This region, settled by immigrants from France (Gaul), was conquered by Rome around 189 B.C. It is now modern Turkey.
Its divinely inspired author, the Apostle Paul, started multiple churches here on his 1st missionary journey [Acts 13-14]. Written about 50 A.D. to multiple churches, it refutes the religious bondage being taught by Jewish teachers who were to mixing faith and grace, (in the Gospel), with the works religion that Judaism had become.
Warren Wiersbe writes, “This is a very dangerous book.” Why? Because, “It exposes the most popular substitute for spiritual living that we have in our churches today – legalism.” I was vividly reminded of this at lunch on Tuesday after my grandfather’s funeral.
A man I loved growing up said he asked his wayward daughter to go to church with him. She told him that she did not have a dress. He responded, “Then you won’t be going with me.” At one time, I would have kept his mouth shut. But studying this text, I responded, “She could come to our church, I have even preached in shorts.”
Does the Bible teach an absolute freedom to do whatever we want? Nothing could be the further from the truth. [Galatians 5:13] Look around you. That philosophy (or religion) leads to a whole different type of bondage. So how are we supposed to Live in Freedom? Let’s read together.
TEXT [Galatians 1:1-10]
1 Paul, an apostle (not sent from men nor through the agency of man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised Him from the dead), 2 and all the brethren who are with me, to the churches of Galatia: 3 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, 4 who gave Himself for our sins so that He might rescue us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, 5 to whom be the glory forevermore. Amen. 6 I am amazed that you are so quickly deserting Him who called you by the grace of Christ, for a different gospel; 7 which is really not another; only there are some who are disturbing you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. 8 But even if we, or an angel from heaven, should preach to you a gospel contrary to what we have preached to you, he is to be accursed! 9 As we have said before, so I say again now, if any man is preaching to you a gospel contrary to what you received, he is to be accursed! 10 For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ.
How does being a ‘bondservant’ allow you to live in freedom? That does not sound very liberating? But look at what he says.
Understanding
Paul begins by emphasizing that his calling, or commission in life was not through a human agency, but rather by the living Creator of the Universe. One of the most difficult circumstances in life is trying to please multiple people. One of the greatest difficulties in my former career in human resources is that I reported to multiple people who each had their own agenda. Ministry can be the same way, especially in the church. But Paul knew he was called and sent by God.
God normally calls us to serve Him in the context of an organization (a business, a church, a family). Paul often modeled this for us. But the way we can experience incredible freedom on our journey is a humble confidence in the fact that our identity and commission actually comes from God.
In verses 3–5, Paul describes the basis for our freedom in God: Grace and Peace. “Grace is the source of salvation and peace is the result of salvation. Grace is positional and peace is practical. The law offered no grace and no peace.” [MacArthur] Paul was careful to make sure that he clarified that this grace and peace came solely through the gift from God, which is the heart of the Gospel…that Jesus died for our sins. [1 Cor. 15:3-4]
It amazed Paul, (v. 6-7) that people who were dramatically impacted by God through believing the Gospel message could so soon and quickly turn away from Christ to an alteration to the message that had changed their lives.
But this is the most used tool of Satan to render believers impotent… distraction. If he can get believers, or a church, to focus on keeping some human standard instead of pursuing a holy God, he has succeeded. But before we get too critical of the Galatians, I would remind us that throughout history there have been many such slides that have caused courageous men of God to stand up and help us refocus on the truth that is The Gospel.
But look what Paul says in verse 7: “this is not really another” Gospel. You can tell it because instead of experiencing peace, you are experiencing agitation. In the world, there have been and are many religions. Even among those who call themselves Christian, with our many labels, Paul reminds us there is true freedom in only one Gospel - faith in Christ alone.
His introduction to Galatians ends with a speech so passionate that he says of himself, if I ever teach something different…I should receive a curse of eternal destruction. It sounds a bit as if he is angry. But that is not true. As we will discover next week, Paul vividly remembers the bondage of trying to keep a religious standard. So desperate is his desire for these beloved people to live in the freedom that is found in Christ that he is willing to risk offending them. Just like Christ, he loves them too much to leave them where they are - living ineffectively for Christ in religious bondage.
CONCLUSION
We live in a culture that emphasizes personal freedom. Whether abortion, homosexual marriage, or the over 70% of South Carolina high school seniors who are having sex before marriage, people generally accept your personal standards, as long as you do not impose them on others. But the truth is that the freedom our culture promotes leads to spiritual bondage…bondage of internal emptiness and agitation…with chains of frustration and guilt…and NO PEACE.
The opposite is often promoted in many religions and churches. Some call it legalism. It is just as much bondage…with frustration and guilt in our failure to maintain the given standard…with NO GRACE.
Both keep us from living in the freedom Christ came to bring. It is spiritual liberty that comes from being forgiven from the debt and guilt of sin, combined with the supernatural ability to live in that same grace and freedom each day as we surrender as a servant of Christ.
I know that this surrender does not make sense to most people. But its logic is not found in a people concept…it is a God concept. It also makes no ‘people sense’ that the God of all the Universe would come in human flesh and die (personally) to pay the sin debt and rescue His rebellious creation from an eternity of separation in Hell.
Living in freedom is the reality found by knowing God and in experiencing His grace personally, everyday of your journey.
RESPONSE
I want to leave you with two questions:
(1) What is one area of your life where you are demanding or insisting
on your personal rights? Surrender it! [Mine = ___________]
(2) What is one expectation that you place on yourself or others that is
outside the context of the Gospel? Surrender it! [Mine = ____]
If you are not yet a follower of Christ, the typical answer to Question #1: It’s my life! But remember who gives you life. The typical answers to question #2 are either: I’m not good enough! or “I’m as good as other Christians! Remember, it’s not a standard that any human can meet. That’s why Christ died…to bring us grace and peace…so that you can live in freedom. But real freedom takes surrender.
Why not surrender today?
With God, there is incredible freedom in surrender.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Monday, May 11, 2009
Thoughts Before the Funeral
It is a difficult day as I prepare to travel to Ohio for my grandfather's funeral. He was the last of my grandparents...so I guess I cannot pretend to be young any longer. The difficulty arises on many fronts. He is my mother's dad...and she (along with her 4 sibblings) loves her dad. But perhaps the most difficult is that he spent the majority of his life (the part that we all knew him) without any interest in a relationship with God.
For you who may read this and begin thinking about emoting something about 'the sovereignty of God'...I get it. It is not up to me to pass judgment. Thank God it is not up to me. But it seems a bit strange. Though (of my grandparents) he was by far the least engaged in my life through the years...it seems as though I am experiencing the greatest sadness and sorrow in my heart.
I know that God could call me today...whether I believe I am young or old. But the overwhelming thought that has dominated my mind over the past 2 days are the simple words of a song recorded by Karen Wheaton some years ago (the words of a parent to their child concerning eternity in heaven with God)... "JUST BE THERE".
For you who may read this and begin thinking about emoting something about 'the sovereignty of God'...I get it. It is not up to me to pass judgment. Thank God it is not up to me. But it seems a bit strange. Though (of my grandparents) he was by far the least engaged in my life through the years...it seems as though I am experiencing the greatest sadness and sorrow in my heart.
I know that God could call me today...whether I believe I am young or old. But the overwhelming thought that has dominated my mind over the past 2 days are the simple words of a song recorded by Karen Wheaton some years ago (the words of a parent to their child concerning eternity in heaven with God)... "JUST BE THERE".
A Proverbs 31 Mama
Connection Fellowship
May 10, 2009
10:00 a.m.
A Proverbs 31 Mama
Proverbs 31:1-31
Introduction
A recent study revealed that if moms were paid by the hour, the average annual salary would exceed $131,000. Just when I think that I get my arms around all that my wife does…and begin to get a little confident in stupid ideas like, “It’s not that tough,” I generally experience some unique revelation that reminds me why dads are not moms.
Recently, I learned a great truth from God’s Word while working with single or widowed moms and dads. Here it is: No matter what anyone ways, there’s no way to be both ‘mom and dad’…and God doesn’t expect you to try. Just be the best you can be, and leave the rest to God.
Just for the record, I think my wife is the best wife and mom on the planet. My only regret so far is that I don’t tell it to her enough by the words that I say and the way that I treat her. A wise man told me that there are two things that your wife needs. #1 – She is the most important person on the planet to you. And #2 – She is the most important person on the planet to you. For those of us who fail at multi-tasking, just try to get #1 right.
If you are of the male species, let me encourage you to not shut your hearing off right now. If you are single…let me exhort you to listen and begin to develop a picture of God’s ideal wife for you. If you are married, let me beg you to listen so that you can encourage (not criticize) your wife as she strives to be a Proverbs 31 Mama. If you are a child, let me encourage you to listen and learn to appreciate the godly qualities that your mom has.
Although I believe my wife is the hottest babe and the most incredible woman on the planet, there has been another woman (not Miss America) that…for 3,000 years… has been the frustration to every woman who strives for God’s ideal. And that is the Proverbs 31 Mama. Lest you think I believe myself adequate to explain that ideal to you, I will join the writer of Proverbs 31, King Lemuel, by not interjecting many words. But, as verse 1 tells us, he shares the insight and wisdom of his own mother for us.
Understanding
1 The words of King Lemuel, the oracle which his mother taught him: 2 What, O my son? And what, O son of my womb? And what, O son of my vows? 3 Do not give your strength to women, Or your ways to that which destroys kings. 4 It is not for kings, O Lemuel, It is not for kings to drink wine, Or for rulers to desire strong drink, 5 For they will drink and forget what is decreed, And pervert the rights of all the afflicted. 6Give strong drink to him who is perishing, And wine to him whose life is bitter. 7 Let him drink and forget his poverty and remember his trouble no more. 8 Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all the unfortunate.
9 Open your mouth, judge righteously, And defend the rights of the afflicted and needy.
Verse two (2) tells us that Lemuel was a mama’s boy, but also that she had made a vow to dedicate him to God. But this vow took action. She takes time to invest in teaching her son. She does not just teach him negative lists of don’ts, but also the positives…the do’s. She taught him not to give himself to chasing women or to lose his sense of judgment through drinking.
She also taught him also to plead the case of the unfortunate and the helpless. The Bible tells the church that this is one of our functions as well. One reason we do not see more people helping others is because they were not taught…by word or by example. But look at his mother’s example -v.10.
10 An excellent wife, who can find? For her worth is far above jewels.
This is not saying that this is impossible, but rare…more rare than the jewelry you got for Mother’s Day.
11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. 12 She does him good and not evil All the days of her life.
She is submissive, supportive, and never subverts his endeavors. She understands as her husband prospers, so does the family does, and proves it.
13 She looks for wool and flax And works with her hands in delight. 14 She is like merchant ships; She brings her food from afar. 15 She rises also while it is still night and gives food to her household And portions to her maidens.
This mama works hard. She seeks out the best for her family. She sacrifices, not just for her family, but also for those who invest in her family. Sure, she is wealthy. But in our context, there are those who invest in our family, like teachers. [Illustration – Teacher appreciation / volunteering]
16 She considers a field and buys it; from her earnings she plants a vineyard.
This is not a woman who is afraid to get the oil changed because some guy might talk her into $1,000 of repairs. She can deal in business.
17 She girds herself with strength And makes her arms strong. 18 She senses that her gain is good; Her lamp does not go out at night.
She takes care of herself, physically. Not a weakling, but strong. And she has confidence in herself. Let me tell you this, mama who is a bit insecure in your physical appearance. Your husband realizes that he out married himself. He can’t believe that you love him and that you would wake up next to him each morning. He does, however, like it when you exude a bit of confidence in who God made you to be.
As was reported on James Dobson’s broadcast a few weeks ago, he is not attracted so much by the beauty of that blonde on TV. But what draws his attention is the confident look in her eye…the one that tells him (although erroneously) that she is interested in him. He longs to see it in your eyes.
19 She stretches out her hands to the distaff, And her hands grasp the spindle. 20 She extends her hand to the poor, and she stretches out her hands to the needy.
She is not just generous, but engages personally with those in need.
21 She is not afraid of the snow for her household, For all her household are clothed with scarlet.
The Proverbs 31 mama thinks ahead. She has a plan for the good days and the bad.
22 She makes coverings for herself; Her clothing is fine linen and purple.
And unlike most mamas who only think about their kids wearing the best acceptable clothes, she is keeping herself up in fashion. “What Not to Wear” would never accept her…not because she is extravagant, but regal.
23 Her husband is known in the gates, When he sits among the elders of the land.
When we have children, most moms become known as ___’s mom. They lose their identity. But for a Proverbs 31 mama, her husband is known as ________’s husband.
24 She makes linen garments and sells them, And supplies belts to the tradesmen.
This kind of concludes the physical and activity picture. But then the text changes to the more important qualities.
25 Strength and dignity are her clothing, And she smiles at the future.
Character…inwardly and vision for the future of her family. Let me ask a question: Mom’s, do you have a vision for what God wants your marriage, your children, and your family to be like? Unless you do, you will never achieve it. It does not just happen. But it starts with God building His character in your personal life. Let me encourage you to begin with what God wants your life to be like. When you do, this next verse happens:
26 She opens her mouth in wisdom, And the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.
Every child goes through some level of rebellious attitude. It starts when they are born. But they will eventually see God’s wisdom that you give them. But remember, that in the same sentence here is ‘kindness’. What amazes me most about my wife is her patience and love even when our kids seem not to listen to sound advice or instruction. I lose way before her.
27 She looks well to the ways of her household, And does not eat the bread of idleness.
Proverbs 31 women do need to take a vacation to renew and refresh. But they are always intentionally striving for the good of their family.
28 Her children rise up and bless her; Her husband also, and he praises her, saying: 29 “Many daughters have done nobly, But you excel them all.”
Moms, let me just tell you that this will probably not always happen when you are in need of encouragement. But it will happen if you stick to it.
And this is where the rest of us come in. If we want to encourage our wives and mothers to strive for this ideal, we need to bless them as they make progress…not when they arrive.
30 Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, But a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.
But remember this moms. You are not striving for your husbands approval or your children’s love. That is settling way too short of the best. You will do best when you strive for God’s approval. He is the rewarder.
31 Give her the product of her hands, And let her works praise her in the gates.
But let me encourage you dads and kids…let mom enjoy the fruit of her labor. Don’t take the last chocolate cookie. Offer it to her first…at least today. It is Mother’s Day for heaven’s sakes.
If you are frustrated by this 3,000 year old ideal, please don’t be. But allow that holy discontent to help you strive first for God Himself…then that will lead you on the foundational steps to being a Proverbs 31 Mama.
The question is: Where are you today on your journey? The first step is your relationship with God. Start there.
Dad, the best gift you could give your wife this morning is to follow Christ…because you will never love her the way God intends without Him loving her through you. And you cannot do that unless you experience Him in your life personally.
May 10, 2009
10:00 a.m.
A Proverbs 31 Mama
Proverbs 31:1-31
Introduction
A recent study revealed that if moms were paid by the hour, the average annual salary would exceed $131,000. Just when I think that I get my arms around all that my wife does…and begin to get a little confident in stupid ideas like, “It’s not that tough,” I generally experience some unique revelation that reminds me why dads are not moms.
Recently, I learned a great truth from God’s Word while working with single or widowed moms and dads. Here it is: No matter what anyone ways, there’s no way to be both ‘mom and dad’…and God doesn’t expect you to try. Just be the best you can be, and leave the rest to God.
Just for the record, I think my wife is the best wife and mom on the planet. My only regret so far is that I don’t tell it to her enough by the words that I say and the way that I treat her. A wise man told me that there are two things that your wife needs. #1 – She is the most important person on the planet to you. And #2 – She is the most important person on the planet to you. For those of us who fail at multi-tasking, just try to get #1 right.
If you are of the male species, let me encourage you to not shut your hearing off right now. If you are single…let me exhort you to listen and begin to develop a picture of God’s ideal wife for you. If you are married, let me beg you to listen so that you can encourage (not criticize) your wife as she strives to be a Proverbs 31 Mama. If you are a child, let me encourage you to listen and learn to appreciate the godly qualities that your mom has.
Although I believe my wife is the hottest babe and the most incredible woman on the planet, there has been another woman (not Miss America) that…for 3,000 years… has been the frustration to every woman who strives for God’s ideal. And that is the Proverbs 31 Mama. Lest you think I believe myself adequate to explain that ideal to you, I will join the writer of Proverbs 31, King Lemuel, by not interjecting many words. But, as verse 1 tells us, he shares the insight and wisdom of his own mother for us.
Understanding
1 The words of King Lemuel, the oracle which his mother taught him: 2 What, O my son? And what, O son of my womb? And what, O son of my vows? 3 Do not give your strength to women, Or your ways to that which destroys kings. 4 It is not for kings, O Lemuel, It is not for kings to drink wine, Or for rulers to desire strong drink, 5 For they will drink and forget what is decreed, And pervert the rights of all the afflicted. 6Give strong drink to him who is perishing, And wine to him whose life is bitter. 7 Let him drink and forget his poverty and remember his trouble no more. 8 Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all the unfortunate.
9 Open your mouth, judge righteously, And defend the rights of the afflicted and needy.
Verse two (2) tells us that Lemuel was a mama’s boy, but also that she had made a vow to dedicate him to God. But this vow took action. She takes time to invest in teaching her son. She does not just teach him negative lists of don’ts, but also the positives…the do’s. She taught him not to give himself to chasing women or to lose his sense of judgment through drinking.
She also taught him also to plead the case of the unfortunate and the helpless. The Bible tells the church that this is one of our functions as well. One reason we do not see more people helping others is because they were not taught…by word or by example. But look at his mother’s example -v.10.
10 An excellent wife, who can find? For her worth is far above jewels.
This is not saying that this is impossible, but rare…more rare than the jewelry you got for Mother’s Day.
11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. 12 She does him good and not evil All the days of her life.
She is submissive, supportive, and never subverts his endeavors. She understands as her husband prospers, so does the family does, and proves it.
13 She looks for wool and flax And works with her hands in delight. 14 She is like merchant ships; She brings her food from afar. 15 She rises also while it is still night and gives food to her household And portions to her maidens.
This mama works hard. She seeks out the best for her family. She sacrifices, not just for her family, but also for those who invest in her family. Sure, she is wealthy. But in our context, there are those who invest in our family, like teachers. [Illustration – Teacher appreciation / volunteering]
16 She considers a field and buys it; from her earnings she plants a vineyard.
This is not a woman who is afraid to get the oil changed because some guy might talk her into $1,000 of repairs. She can deal in business.
17 She girds herself with strength And makes her arms strong. 18 She senses that her gain is good; Her lamp does not go out at night.
She takes care of herself, physically. Not a weakling, but strong. And she has confidence in herself. Let me tell you this, mama who is a bit insecure in your physical appearance. Your husband realizes that he out married himself. He can’t believe that you love him and that you would wake up next to him each morning. He does, however, like it when you exude a bit of confidence in who God made you to be.
As was reported on James Dobson’s broadcast a few weeks ago, he is not attracted so much by the beauty of that blonde on TV. But what draws his attention is the confident look in her eye…the one that tells him (although erroneously) that she is interested in him. He longs to see it in your eyes.
19 She stretches out her hands to the distaff, And her hands grasp the spindle. 20 She extends her hand to the poor, and she stretches out her hands to the needy.
She is not just generous, but engages personally with those in need.
21 She is not afraid of the snow for her household, For all her household are clothed with scarlet.
The Proverbs 31 mama thinks ahead. She has a plan for the good days and the bad.
22 She makes coverings for herself; Her clothing is fine linen and purple.
And unlike most mamas who only think about their kids wearing the best acceptable clothes, she is keeping herself up in fashion. “What Not to Wear” would never accept her…not because she is extravagant, but regal.
23 Her husband is known in the gates, When he sits among the elders of the land.
When we have children, most moms become known as ___’s mom. They lose their identity. But for a Proverbs 31 mama, her husband is known as ________’s husband.
24 She makes linen garments and sells them, And supplies belts to the tradesmen.
This kind of concludes the physical and activity picture. But then the text changes to the more important qualities.
25 Strength and dignity are her clothing, And she smiles at the future.
Character…inwardly and vision for the future of her family. Let me ask a question: Mom’s, do you have a vision for what God wants your marriage, your children, and your family to be like? Unless you do, you will never achieve it. It does not just happen. But it starts with God building His character in your personal life. Let me encourage you to begin with what God wants your life to be like. When you do, this next verse happens:
26 She opens her mouth in wisdom, And the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.
Every child goes through some level of rebellious attitude. It starts when they are born. But they will eventually see God’s wisdom that you give them. But remember, that in the same sentence here is ‘kindness’. What amazes me most about my wife is her patience and love even when our kids seem not to listen to sound advice or instruction. I lose way before her.
27 She looks well to the ways of her household, And does not eat the bread of idleness.
Proverbs 31 women do need to take a vacation to renew and refresh. But they are always intentionally striving for the good of their family.
28 Her children rise up and bless her; Her husband also, and he praises her, saying: 29 “Many daughters have done nobly, But you excel them all.”
Moms, let me just tell you that this will probably not always happen when you are in need of encouragement. But it will happen if you stick to it.
And this is where the rest of us come in. If we want to encourage our wives and mothers to strive for this ideal, we need to bless them as they make progress…not when they arrive.
30 Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, But a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.
But remember this moms. You are not striving for your husbands approval or your children’s love. That is settling way too short of the best. You will do best when you strive for God’s approval. He is the rewarder.
31 Give her the product of her hands, And let her works praise her in the gates.
But let me encourage you dads and kids…let mom enjoy the fruit of her labor. Don’t take the last chocolate cookie. Offer it to her first…at least today. It is Mother’s Day for heaven’s sakes.
If you are frustrated by this 3,000 year old ideal, please don’t be. But allow that holy discontent to help you strive first for God Himself…then that will lead you on the foundational steps to being a Proverbs 31 Mama.
The question is: Where are you today on your journey? The first step is your relationship with God. Start there.
Dad, the best gift you could give your wife this morning is to follow Christ…because you will never love her the way God intends without Him loving her through you. And you cannot do that unless you experience Him in your life personally.
Monday, May 4, 2009
A Convenient Faith
What is 'convenient faith'? It is a faith that shows up or comes up in conversation only when it is convenient for accomplishing the agenda of the day. In the past few weeks, I have noticed a few notables in our culture who seemed to throw their faith around when it is beneficial. One covered up a symbol of Jesus and then proceeded to quote Jesus in his own speech. Another threw out his Southern Baptist heritage and his belief in death bed conversions in a response to a prominent politician changing political parties very late in his career.
Lest anyone think this is a political message, they just happened to illustrate the point on the national news. I also heard a homeless person in our city throw out multiple religious / Bible phrases in an attempt to relieve someone of some money. Then I heard a pastor throw around some 'out of context' scripture phrases to justify his position. The reality it, culture gets their prompting to use a 'convenient faith' mostly from the church.
However, what put me over the edge...and prompted me to write this...was a sign in our community. It is one of those new digital billboards (which I think is pretty cool). One of the messages on it this week has been a partial Bible verse: "All things work together for good...Rom. 8:28" What an encouraging and positive quote for those who drive by.
However, it stopped without saying the rest, "...for those who love God and are called according to His purpose." It is a pretty convenient faith that believes the first part (from the billboard) without the truth of the rest. I'm not saying that the person who put the words up on the screen lives a convenient faith. However, we are pressing toward avoiding anything expression of faith and truth that would potentially cause a conflict.
Believing in God, having faith in God, and loving God inherantly entails accepting the truth that this God is and proclaims...all of it. It is a convenient faith that believe only the parts that help our cause or helps us to gain favor with others. What does convenient faith lead to? I believe it leads eventually to having no allowable expression of real faith and truth.
As I look at the Bible, it is full of people who could not afford to have convenient faith. Like many around the planet today, their faith was grounds for persecution and possibly death. They could not afford a passive phrase choice in the middle of a speech or conversation.
This past weekend I had the privilege of hanging out with some of my heroes...missionaries. Many of them cannot afford to possess a 'convenient faith'. As I watch what is happening in the world today...and even in our own country...I am wondering how long it will be before 'convenient faith' even dissappears because its concequences? And when that happens, how many people will be left who have the courage to express true faith?
Lest anyone think this is a political message, they just happened to illustrate the point on the national news. I also heard a homeless person in our city throw out multiple religious / Bible phrases in an attempt to relieve someone of some money. Then I heard a pastor throw around some 'out of context' scripture phrases to justify his position. The reality it, culture gets their prompting to use a 'convenient faith' mostly from the church.
However, what put me over the edge...and prompted me to write this...was a sign in our community. It is one of those new digital billboards (which I think is pretty cool). One of the messages on it this week has been a partial Bible verse: "All things work together for good...Rom. 8:28" What an encouraging and positive quote for those who drive by.
However, it stopped without saying the rest, "...for those who love God and are called according to His purpose." It is a pretty convenient faith that believes the first part (from the billboard) without the truth of the rest. I'm not saying that the person who put the words up on the screen lives a convenient faith. However, we are pressing toward avoiding anything expression of faith and truth that would potentially cause a conflict.
Believing in God, having faith in God, and loving God inherantly entails accepting the truth that this God is and proclaims...all of it. It is a convenient faith that believe only the parts that help our cause or helps us to gain favor with others. What does convenient faith lead to? I believe it leads eventually to having no allowable expression of real faith and truth.
As I look at the Bible, it is full of people who could not afford to have convenient faith. Like many around the planet today, their faith was grounds for persecution and possibly death. They could not afford a passive phrase choice in the middle of a speech or conversation.
This past weekend I had the privilege of hanging out with some of my heroes...missionaries. Many of them cannot afford to possess a 'convenient faith'. As I watch what is happening in the world today...and even in our own country...I am wondering how long it will be before 'convenient faith' even dissappears because its concequences? And when that happens, how many people will be left who have the courage to express true faith?
Friday, May 1, 2009
Thursday, April 30, 2009
It Really Happened...Now What?
Connection Fellowship
Sunday, April 19, 2009
It Really Happen…Now What?
John 20:19-21
When I finished the worship guides this week, my father (who was visiting from Ohio) sat in my office and began to fold them. My mother has done their church bulletin for as long as I can remember, so my father has proofed well over 1,000 of them. And as he folded ours, he began to proof read my work. He found two errors. (Now I’ve fixed it, so don’t go looking for them.) But one of them was a simple typo. The other was in the schedule for Sunday. I forgot to remove the word, “EASTER” from the morning service.
I did what any good son would do…and that is to rationalize it. Then I did what any good pastor would do…and that is to spiritualize it. I said, “It fits with my sermon. By the way, do you only celebrate the resurrection one day a year? Our church is more spiritual than yours. We at least give it two weeks.”
I really made the error. But there is a point to it. Do we only celebrate Easter one day a year…and then just go on with our lives? Or does it really make a difference in our everyday life? This morning we come to the Gospel of John 20:19-21. Jesus had already appeared to a few, but now makes a public appearance to a whole group of His followers. He answers the question:
“It really did happen…but now what?”
TEXT: [John 19:19-21]
19 So when it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and when the doors were shut where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.” 20 And when He had said this, He showed them both His hands and His side. The disciples then rejoiced when they saw the Lord. 21 So Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you; as the Father has sent Me, I also send you.”
Why were they afraid? First of all, their leader had been killed because of the message He spread and they were identified as His followers. Second, now that He was not in the tomb, they were being blamed for stealing the body. And third, as if that were not enough, some of them had seen Jesus alive…the One most of them had abandoned or denied. Let’s give them a bit of a break about having a lack of courage.
Let’s look at the rest of the text. What does Jesus teach them?
UNDERSTANDING
First, in verse 19, Jesus declares PEACE to be with them. What does that mean? Jesus wants His disciples to know that because of His death and resurrection, the peace of Holy God is now with them individually. A lack of peace resulting from their sin and separation from God has now been dealt with on the cross.
Because of His holy sacrifice, Jesus had a legitimate right to declare judgment on all of them (and all of us). But He instead declares that the way of perfect peace – a right relationship with the Father – was accomplished for them. Peace is a certainty.
Second, in verse 20, Jesus displays His PERSON to be with them. Jesus had died…they watched Him. Jesus had been buried…they saw that too. Even if it was Him, certainly things would never be the same. No one had ever done this before. But Jesus took the time to reassure the ones that He loved that the same Savior they had followed for 3 years was still their friend.
Third, in verse 21, Jesus reassures them of His declaration of PEACE, but in a different tone. It is as if He says to them, “I don’t want you to hear me say it, I want you to experience it.” Just as they were again experiencing His person, His peace could be known in the same way…and with the same personally touch. But notice that in the same statement, Jesus says, “as the Father has sent Me, I also send you.”
Finally, we see that Jesus teaches His followers that with His Peace and His Person comes His PURPOSE. The purpose of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, does not end with a cross, a tomb, and a coming back to life party with a few guys who had hung out with Him. No…it was to be the launching point for the entire world to hear about and experience of that same peace.
Would Jesus have died for just His disciples? I believe that the character of God displayed throughout history – especially in the case of Noah – says the answer to that question is “YES”. However, John 3:16-17 tells us that God loved the entire world and that His Son did not die to save a few and declare judgment on the rest.
No! Thanks be to God, the good news says He did it for all of us.
I don’t think that there is a more clear word picture that explains the content of this text better than 2 Corinthians 5. In verse 14:
14 For the love of Christ controls us, having concluded this, that one died for all, therefore all died; 15 and He died for all, so that they who live might no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf. 16 Therefore from now on we recognize no one according to the flesh; even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him in this way no longer. 17 Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come. 18 Now all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation, 19 namely, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and He has committed to us the word of reconciliation. 20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. 21 He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.
It is saying that we now live in the PEACE of that right relationship with God. And it changes us. In fact, the PERSON of Christ now lives through us. And His PURPSE of making known His available peace and reconciliation is our purpose…as His ambassadors.
I’m not sure if the disciples really knew what this would hold in store for them. As for us, we may not know all that being sent in the same way as Jesus was sent will hold in store for us. However, there are two key things about every ambassador:
(1) They represent the person and purpose of the one sending them.
(2) They cannot represent that person by staying at home.
CONCLUSION
A few minutes ago, I mentioned NOAH. In just a few moments, as we take time to respond to this message, we will commission our NOAH team that will leave Sunday for New Orleans, exhibiting their response to ‘so send I you.”
But each of us…right where we are on our journey…need to answer the question: Jesus has risen, now what? So here are some possible responses based on where you are personally:
(1) Know His peace…believe and be reconciled to God
(2) Know His person…experience letting Christ live in and through you.
(3) Experience His peace…by not allowing fear to hold you back.
(4) Answer the call to be sent…across the street or around the world.
Jesus is risen from the dead. It really happened…now what?
Sunday, April 19, 2009
It Really Happen…Now What?
John 20:19-21
When I finished the worship guides this week, my father (who was visiting from Ohio) sat in my office and began to fold them. My mother has done their church bulletin for as long as I can remember, so my father has proofed well over 1,000 of them. And as he folded ours, he began to proof read my work. He found two errors. (Now I’ve fixed it, so don’t go looking for them.) But one of them was a simple typo. The other was in the schedule for Sunday. I forgot to remove the word, “EASTER” from the morning service.
I did what any good son would do…and that is to rationalize it. Then I did what any good pastor would do…and that is to spiritualize it. I said, “It fits with my sermon. By the way, do you only celebrate the resurrection one day a year? Our church is more spiritual than yours. We at least give it two weeks.”
I really made the error. But there is a point to it. Do we only celebrate Easter one day a year…and then just go on with our lives? Or does it really make a difference in our everyday life? This morning we come to the Gospel of John 20:19-21. Jesus had already appeared to a few, but now makes a public appearance to a whole group of His followers. He answers the question:
“It really did happen…but now what?”
TEXT: [John 19:19-21]
19 So when it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and when the doors were shut where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.” 20 And when He had said this, He showed them both His hands and His side. The disciples then rejoiced when they saw the Lord. 21 So Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you; as the Father has sent Me, I also send you.”
Why were they afraid? First of all, their leader had been killed because of the message He spread and they were identified as His followers. Second, now that He was not in the tomb, they were being blamed for stealing the body. And third, as if that were not enough, some of them had seen Jesus alive…the One most of them had abandoned or denied. Let’s give them a bit of a break about having a lack of courage.
Let’s look at the rest of the text. What does Jesus teach them?
UNDERSTANDING
First, in verse 19, Jesus declares PEACE to be with them. What does that mean? Jesus wants His disciples to know that because of His death and resurrection, the peace of Holy God is now with them individually. A lack of peace resulting from their sin and separation from God has now been dealt with on the cross.
Because of His holy sacrifice, Jesus had a legitimate right to declare judgment on all of them (and all of us). But He instead declares that the way of perfect peace – a right relationship with the Father – was accomplished for them. Peace is a certainty.
Second, in verse 20, Jesus displays His PERSON to be with them. Jesus had died…they watched Him. Jesus had been buried…they saw that too. Even if it was Him, certainly things would never be the same. No one had ever done this before. But Jesus took the time to reassure the ones that He loved that the same Savior they had followed for 3 years was still their friend.
Third, in verse 21, Jesus reassures them of His declaration of PEACE, but in a different tone. It is as if He says to them, “I don’t want you to hear me say it, I want you to experience it.” Just as they were again experiencing His person, His peace could be known in the same way…and with the same personally touch. But notice that in the same statement, Jesus says, “as the Father has sent Me, I also send you.”
Finally, we see that Jesus teaches His followers that with His Peace and His Person comes His PURPOSE. The purpose of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, does not end with a cross, a tomb, and a coming back to life party with a few guys who had hung out with Him. No…it was to be the launching point for the entire world to hear about and experience of that same peace.
Would Jesus have died for just His disciples? I believe that the character of God displayed throughout history – especially in the case of Noah – says the answer to that question is “YES”. However, John 3:16-17 tells us that God loved the entire world and that His Son did not die to save a few and declare judgment on the rest.
No! Thanks be to God, the good news says He did it for all of us.
I don’t think that there is a more clear word picture that explains the content of this text better than 2 Corinthians 5. In verse 14:
14 For the love of Christ controls us, having concluded this, that one died for all, therefore all died; 15 and He died for all, so that they who live might no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf. 16 Therefore from now on we recognize no one according to the flesh; even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him in this way no longer. 17 Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come. 18 Now all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation, 19 namely, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and He has committed to us the word of reconciliation. 20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. 21 He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.
It is saying that we now live in the PEACE of that right relationship with God. And it changes us. In fact, the PERSON of Christ now lives through us. And His PURPSE of making known His available peace and reconciliation is our purpose…as His ambassadors.
I’m not sure if the disciples really knew what this would hold in store for them. As for us, we may not know all that being sent in the same way as Jesus was sent will hold in store for us. However, there are two key things about every ambassador:
(1) They represent the person and purpose of the one sending them.
(2) They cannot represent that person by staying at home.
CONCLUSION
A few minutes ago, I mentioned NOAH. In just a few moments, as we take time to respond to this message, we will commission our NOAH team that will leave Sunday for New Orleans, exhibiting their response to ‘so send I you.”
But each of us…right where we are on our journey…need to answer the question: Jesus has risen, now what? So here are some possible responses based on where you are personally:
(1) Know His peace…believe and be reconciled to God
(2) Know His person…experience letting Christ live in and through you.
(3) Experience His peace…by not allowing fear to hold you back.
(4) Answer the call to be sent…across the street or around the world.
Jesus is risen from the dead. It really happened…now what?
Monday, April 13, 2009
Did It Really Happen?
Connection Fellowship
Easter Sunday, April 12, 2009
Did It Really Happen?
Matthew 28:1-15
Two weeks ago, I attended a funeral. A friend of mine was presiding over the casket of his mother. As he read the passage of comfort from John 14, I thought to myself, “This is the time when you find out if you really believe what you say you believe.”
Today, I want you to know that I do not consider myself an apologist. I no longer thrive on making an argument to convince people of anything. But this morning we come to a critical text and we will deal with the question:
“Did It [The Resurrection] Really Happen?”
TEXT: [Matthew 28:1-15]
1 Now after the Sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to look at the grave. 2 And behold, a severe earthquake had occurred, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled away the stone and sat upon it. 3 And his appearance was like lightning, and his clothing as white as snow. 4 The guards shook for fear of him and became like dead men. 5 The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; for I know that you are looking for Jesus who has been crucified. 6 “He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said. Come, see the place where He was lying. 7 “Go quickly and tell His disciples that He has risen from the dead; and behold, He is going ahead of you into Galilee, there you will see Him; behold, I have told you.” 8 And they left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy and ran to report it to His disciples. 9 And behold, Jesus met them and greeted them. And they came up and took hold of His feet and worshiped Him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and take word to My brethren to leave for Galilee, and there they will see Me.” 11 Now while they were on their way, some of the guard came into the city and reported to the chief priests all that had happened. 12 And when they had assembled with the elders and consulted together, they gave a large sum of money to the soldiers,13 and said, “You are to say, ‘His disciples came by night and stole Him away while we were asleep.’ 14 “And if this should come to the governor’s ears, we will win him over and keep you out of trouble.”15 And they took the money and did as they had been instructed; and this story was widely spread among the Jews, and is to this day.
It is a story recorded in all four (4) of the New Testament Gospels. It is proclaimed multiple times in the Book of Acts and in 1st Corinthians chapter 15. In verse 14, the Apostle Paul, in one of the most pointed statements says, “…if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is vain, your faith also is vain.” He goes on to say, (v. 17-19), “and if Christ has not been raised, your faith is worthless; you are still in your sins. Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished…we are of all men most to be pitied.”
It’s been argued that Jesus did not really die on the cross. It has been argued that Jesus was not really buried in the borrowed tomb of Joseph of Arimethea (John 19). It has been argued that Jesus’ body was stolen or that the women came to wrong tomb. It has also been argued that the appearances of Jesus Christ were really hallucinations.
Honestly, I have heard all of these arguments made and refuted by atheists and theologians for quite a few years. I could even make the arguments. But for the first time, in preparation for today, I researched the evidence for myself. And if you want to read it in a concise place, I would suggest: Lee Strobel’s – “The Case for Christ”
For today, I want to focus on just one argument that is pervasive in our culture as I did some personal searching. As we just read the account here in Matthew’s Gospel, you can read the accounts of the other 3 and they are not exactly the same. Let’s look at the text.
One key example is found in verse 1. It says that Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to look at the grave. Mark 16:1 says that Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James, and Salome came to anoint the body of Jesus. Luke records the name of Joanna as well. John’s Gospel only records Mary Magdalene. So who was right?
Some argue that the accounts of angel, or angels, or the ‘young man’ are inconsistent. So who was right? Some argue that some accounts say the women were silent because of fear and others say that they ran to tell the disciples. So who is right?
Some argue why Matthew is the only writing of the Guards’ interaction with the priests and the false story. Why do the others leave it out? Is the Bible really true?
You may be thinking, as I did on many Easter Sunday mornings, “I don’t really care about all of that. Let’s sing ‘Victory in Jesus’ and go have some dinner.” But I want to challenge you with 2 thoughts: First, when you are standing over the casket of someone you love dearly or in bed with an incurable disease or in an overturned car that’s on fire…you will care if it’s true.
So who is right?
The answer is, “All of them”. What would be questionable is if all of them were identical. Watch a major news story on all four of our local networks and they will each cover it from a different perspective. This week, a small plane crashed in Spartanburg Co. Each network included different details, but all included the two most important facts: (1) a plane crashed and (2) the pilot died. In case you still doubt it, I personally saw the wreckage on Wednesday.
In the most memorable moments of history, the best, most credible sources commonly recorded different details. In our case all of the key factors are unanimously reported: (1) Jesus was crucified and died; (2) He was buried in a tomb; (3) He was raised from the dead; and (4) Many people actually saw Him.
We looked at 1 Cor. 15. Paul is commonly accepted as the writer and it has been dated only a few years after the events.
3. For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4. and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5. and that He appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. 6. After that He appeared to more than five hundred brethren at one time, most of whom remain until now, but some have fallen asleep; 7. then He appeared to James, then to all the apostles; 8. and last of all, as it were to one untimely born, He appeared to me also. [though I had even persecuted the church of God].
Paul is not focusing on the reported surrounding details, but on key facts. He says plenty of people could verify the story. The details are important in helping us understand the dynamic of the story and to helping us understand how people responded to the events. But remember that the key to the Gospel message is found in the death, burial, and resurrection of the Savior.
Finally, there are people all around us - here and all around this globe – asking legitimate questions like this that we need to answer so that they may believe. There are a lot of ‘theological’ or ‘church’ or ‘behavior’ types of questions that may or may not be worth spending time to answer. But this one is most critical.
I read a true story this week that helped me understand this point:
In 1990, a brilliant man - Mike Bryan [who considers himself an atheist] was led by his curiosity to Dallas, TX and Criswell College for the purpose of living within an evangelical community and writing about his experience. His book was entitled, Chapter and Verse: A Skeptic Revisits Christianity.
After almost 6 months of going to classes, conferences, and going on a mission trip, it was time for Mike to return to his home in New York City. At dinner before he left, a professor asked Mike this question: “Thinking about all you have studied and experienced, what is the bottom line as you see it?”
With no hesitation at all Mike responded, “That’s easy. It’s the resurrection of Jesus from the dead.” Mike then proceeded with his logic:
“If Jesus rose from the dead then: 1) there is a God and 2) He is that God. Furthermore, 3) the Bible is true because He said it was true and believed it was true. And, 4) that means there is a heaven and a hell, and 5) one’s relationship with Jesus is the deciding factor as to which way you go.” [Daniel Akin – “The Centrality of the Resurrection of Christ”]
I have often thought that there is no greater witness for God in our culture than that of a changed life. I still believe that is true. But as I read this week about a believer – a newspaper writer who covered the religion page for several years – who became an atheist as a result…I realized that our lives may have both positive and negative impacts on whether others believe.
I am not, nor will I ever minimize the importance of living our lives so they are a walking billboard for the love and grace of God. However, when it comes down to the most important, critical times of our lives…the circumstances and choices of life and death, there is only one fact that actually matters:
The resurrection of Jesus Christ really did happen.
It is true. You can base your life, now and for eternity, on it. But it is only engaged to change your life and your eternal destiny if you believe it. It really did happen. Jesus has, and is [presently] risen. Others had been raised from the dead...but all eventually died. But not Jesus. This had never happened before. He did not die again. HE IS RISEN. The question is: Have you believed?
Easter Sunday, April 12, 2009
Did It Really Happen?
Matthew 28:1-15
Two weeks ago, I attended a funeral. A friend of mine was presiding over the casket of his mother. As he read the passage of comfort from John 14, I thought to myself, “This is the time when you find out if you really believe what you say you believe.”
Today, I want you to know that I do not consider myself an apologist. I no longer thrive on making an argument to convince people of anything. But this morning we come to a critical text and we will deal with the question:
“Did It [The Resurrection] Really Happen?”
TEXT: [Matthew 28:1-15]
1 Now after the Sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to look at the grave. 2 And behold, a severe earthquake had occurred, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled away the stone and sat upon it. 3 And his appearance was like lightning, and his clothing as white as snow. 4 The guards shook for fear of him and became like dead men. 5 The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; for I know that you are looking for Jesus who has been crucified. 6 “He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said. Come, see the place where He was lying. 7 “Go quickly and tell His disciples that He has risen from the dead; and behold, He is going ahead of you into Galilee, there you will see Him; behold, I have told you.” 8 And they left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy and ran to report it to His disciples. 9 And behold, Jesus met them and greeted them. And they came up and took hold of His feet and worshiped Him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and take word to My brethren to leave for Galilee, and there they will see Me.” 11 Now while they were on their way, some of the guard came into the city and reported to the chief priests all that had happened. 12 And when they had assembled with the elders and consulted together, they gave a large sum of money to the soldiers,13 and said, “You are to say, ‘His disciples came by night and stole Him away while we were asleep.’ 14 “And if this should come to the governor’s ears, we will win him over and keep you out of trouble.”15 And they took the money and did as they had been instructed; and this story was widely spread among the Jews, and is to this day.
It is a story recorded in all four (4) of the New Testament Gospels. It is proclaimed multiple times in the Book of Acts and in 1st Corinthians chapter 15. In verse 14, the Apostle Paul, in one of the most pointed statements says, “…if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is vain, your faith also is vain.” He goes on to say, (v. 17-19), “and if Christ has not been raised, your faith is worthless; you are still in your sins. Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished…we are of all men most to be pitied.”
It’s been argued that Jesus did not really die on the cross. It has been argued that Jesus was not really buried in the borrowed tomb of Joseph of Arimethea (John 19). It has been argued that Jesus’ body was stolen or that the women came to wrong tomb. It has also been argued that the appearances of Jesus Christ were really hallucinations.
Honestly, I have heard all of these arguments made and refuted by atheists and theologians for quite a few years. I could even make the arguments. But for the first time, in preparation for today, I researched the evidence for myself. And if you want to read it in a concise place, I would suggest: Lee Strobel’s – “The Case for Christ”
For today, I want to focus on just one argument that is pervasive in our culture as I did some personal searching. As we just read the account here in Matthew’s Gospel, you can read the accounts of the other 3 and they are not exactly the same. Let’s look at the text.
One key example is found in verse 1. It says that Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to look at the grave. Mark 16:1 says that Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James, and Salome came to anoint the body of Jesus. Luke records the name of Joanna as well. John’s Gospel only records Mary Magdalene. So who was right?
Some argue that the accounts of angel, or angels, or the ‘young man’ are inconsistent. So who was right? Some argue that some accounts say the women were silent because of fear and others say that they ran to tell the disciples. So who is right?
Some argue why Matthew is the only writing of the Guards’ interaction with the priests and the false story. Why do the others leave it out? Is the Bible really true?
You may be thinking, as I did on many Easter Sunday mornings, “I don’t really care about all of that. Let’s sing ‘Victory in Jesus’ and go have some dinner.” But I want to challenge you with 2 thoughts: First, when you are standing over the casket of someone you love dearly or in bed with an incurable disease or in an overturned car that’s on fire…you will care if it’s true.
So who is right?
The answer is, “All of them”. What would be questionable is if all of them were identical. Watch a major news story on all four of our local networks and they will each cover it from a different perspective. This week, a small plane crashed in Spartanburg Co. Each network included different details, but all included the two most important facts: (1) a plane crashed and (2) the pilot died. In case you still doubt it, I personally saw the wreckage on Wednesday.
In the most memorable moments of history, the best, most credible sources commonly recorded different details. In our case all of the key factors are unanimously reported: (1) Jesus was crucified and died; (2) He was buried in a tomb; (3) He was raised from the dead; and (4) Many people actually saw Him.
We looked at 1 Cor. 15. Paul is commonly accepted as the writer and it has been dated only a few years after the events.
3. For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4. and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5. and that He appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. 6. After that He appeared to more than five hundred brethren at one time, most of whom remain until now, but some have fallen asleep; 7. then He appeared to James, then to all the apostles; 8. and last of all, as it were to one untimely born, He appeared to me also. [though I had even persecuted the church of God].
Paul is not focusing on the reported surrounding details, but on key facts. He says plenty of people could verify the story. The details are important in helping us understand the dynamic of the story and to helping us understand how people responded to the events. But remember that the key to the Gospel message is found in the death, burial, and resurrection of the Savior.
Finally, there are people all around us - here and all around this globe – asking legitimate questions like this that we need to answer so that they may believe. There are a lot of ‘theological’ or ‘church’ or ‘behavior’ types of questions that may or may not be worth spending time to answer. But this one is most critical.
I read a true story this week that helped me understand this point:
In 1990, a brilliant man - Mike Bryan [who considers himself an atheist] was led by his curiosity to Dallas, TX and Criswell College for the purpose of living within an evangelical community and writing about his experience. His book was entitled, Chapter and Verse: A Skeptic Revisits Christianity.
After almost 6 months of going to classes, conferences, and going on a mission trip, it was time for Mike to return to his home in New York City. At dinner before he left, a professor asked Mike this question: “Thinking about all you have studied and experienced, what is the bottom line as you see it?”
With no hesitation at all Mike responded, “That’s easy. It’s the resurrection of Jesus from the dead.” Mike then proceeded with his logic:
“If Jesus rose from the dead then: 1) there is a God and 2) He is that God. Furthermore, 3) the Bible is true because He said it was true and believed it was true. And, 4) that means there is a heaven and a hell, and 5) one’s relationship with Jesus is the deciding factor as to which way you go.” [Daniel Akin – “The Centrality of the Resurrection of Christ”]
I have often thought that there is no greater witness for God in our culture than that of a changed life. I still believe that is true. But as I read this week about a believer – a newspaper writer who covered the religion page for several years – who became an atheist as a result…I realized that our lives may have both positive and negative impacts on whether others believe.
I am not, nor will I ever minimize the importance of living our lives so they are a walking billboard for the love and grace of God. However, when it comes down to the most important, critical times of our lives…the circumstances and choices of life and death, there is only one fact that actually matters:
The resurrection of Jesus Christ really did happen.
It is true. You can base your life, now and for eternity, on it. But it is only engaged to change your life and your eternal destiny if you believe it. It really did happen. Jesus has, and is [presently] risen. Others had been raised from the dead...but all eventually died. But not Jesus. This had never happened before. He did not die again. HE IS RISEN. The question is: Have you believed?
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