The Way, The Truth, and The Life

Sermon 5-15-11

2011-05-18T14:36:00.002-04:00

“MESSED UP, MIXED UP, AND MOVING UP”

Esther 2

Illst of Patty (loving the unlovable)

That is the kind of love we are capable of isn’t it? And it certainly runs deeper when we demonstrate it toward our child that rebels, our spouse whose imperfections we deal with daily, or a parent that drives us crazy. Where do we learn that love from?

1 John 4:19 - “We love because He first loved us.”

Jeremiah 29:11 - “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” (Context...)

Today we see a personal example of this love taking place...

Read and explain text...

Vs. 1 -

“After these things” - review chapter 1, 4 years have passed and King returns from war with nothing - he has failed and been humiliated in marriage and war,

“remembered” - hints of regret...anger and wrath mixed with alcohol and bad advisors will produce nothing less...

Vs. 2-4 - His advisors come up with a plan...

“beauty preparations” - even in those days, ladies, you were told that you are not good enough, you need help to be beautiful...

This scene becomes the first recorded “Bachelor” reality show...there is nothing new under the sun...

This will open the door for Esther to be used by God...

#1 - God is at work even when you don’t see Him. (vs. 1-5)

Through everyday, unforeseen, and unlikely circumstances God can make us into something (one) that we could never be otherwise.

This event seems to be far removed from anything that would ever affect the Jews. This is a Gentile king trying to find a woman that will meet his needs. How could this event have any bearing on helping the Jews to see that God still loved them and wanted to spare them and use them? It’s because you can’t see what He’s doing.

Illst- I am where I am today b/c of my wife. God was truly working in ways we never saw to bring us together...

****

Vs. 5-7

Mordecai’s great grandfather had been carried away into captivity. This made Mordecai a 4th generation exile. Esther is his cousin. Her parents apparently die early and Mordecai raises her.

All these two have ever known is living in a pagan, godless society. They may have heard stories of what God had done in the past but they haven’t seen it. In the time they live there is no fresh word from God. The Israelites ignored the prophets and God has gone silent. The only thing they have to go on was a promise He made of a better day that would come. You’ll notice there is no mention of Esther’s relationship to God. It likely wasn’t strong. You surely don’t see any evidence of it. There are no sacrifices, no observance of feast days, not concerned with moving back to the Promised Land, and no attempt to live by the law.

Esther has had a rough life. She has no clue what a normal family looks like, she’s been trough a tremendous amount of trauma, never lived in a religious society, and has no real relationship with God to sustain her. With all this against her she has no chance in life does she?

#2 - Your life may have had a bad start but it can have a great finish. (vs. 5-7)

Your past may make your life a challenge but its nothing God can’t overcome. Your past is part of your story. It reveals the glory of a God who could take someone who is broken, has nothing to offer, maybe even seen as unloveable, and yet He will love them, and make them into somebody that mattered.

Some of you don’t know anything about this. You had faithful Christian parents. You started coming to church 9 months before you could even cry and haven’t missed too many Sundays since. You got saved in the nursery, taught Sunday School when you were 8, Deacon at 12, led WMU at 15, preached and baptized 1,000’s by 20. :) If so then praise God for it. Don’t ever get over how blessed you have been. For some people that is your lot in life.

But not everybody gets a life like that.

In these last few years I am so thankful that God has allowed our family to step out into the world a little bit deeper because it has shown me what the world looks like. It is full of broken people.....(broken homes, far from God).....These are people I look at and think they don’t have a chance in the world. Some of you know what I’m talking about.

It doesn’t matter where you came from, what matters is where are you going.

John 10:10a - “The thief does not come except to steal, kill, and destroy.”

He may have done that to you, but Jesus tells us that the story doesn’t have to end that way...

John 10:10b - “I have come that they may have life and that they may have it more abundantly.”

No one is too broken, too far gone, or too messed up for Jesus to change. No matter where you have come from He still wants you. That may be the first time somebody has ever had anyone tell you that.

With Jesus I now have power, purpose and peace. It doesn’t mean trouble won’t still find me, but it does mean I have the right perspective to deal with it and I am not alone.

Jesus is the hope of the world and the church is the pipeline He uses to get that message out. If you have found that hope, then you need to find others who are broken and unlovable and share with them how they can have a course change in their life.

Esther was the very definition of messed up and mixed up, but we are about to see she is also moving up!

****

Vs. 8-19

“gathered / taken” - Some may have gone voluntarily seeing it as a promotion although that is questionable given the vicarious nature of living with this king. Most were probably taken against their will. Commentators speculate anywhere from 400-1000 women were chosen. Lest you think the king was simply a male chauvinist pig consider what he did to the men...500 boys a year were gathered and made eunuchs!

“allowance” - she ate defiled food that Daniel would have rejected. Some of the blemishes in Esther’s character start to show up...

“had not revealed” - kept quiet about her Jewish identity. It is also very telling that they could be around her and not realize she was Jewish. Esther had adapted to Persian customs and become so worldly that no one would recognize her as being one of God’s people. She had become indistinguishable from the world. That is what happens when you forget God in your daily life.

“perfumes and preparations” - fumigation with other cosmetics. (Fumigation kills :) )

“she obtained favor” - make no mistake, this didn’t happen because they just stayed up all night talking. There is an implication of sexual activity that caused the king to be enamored with her.

“crown” - means this is going to be a marriage. A Jewish girl marrying a pagan Gentile King. This too was unacceptable in Jewish law because God’s people were not to mix marriage with ungodly people.

Here is our Esther...she compromises her religion by eating defiled food, keeping quiet about her God, committing immorality, and marrying an unbeliever. She is one worldly person.

#3 - God still uses imperfect people (vs. 8-17)

Reflecting on this truth absolutely rocked my world this week. If we must be perfect and get everything right for God to use us then I don’t know about you, but I’m in trouble. And if we were perfect then why would we need God?

There has only been one perfect person that has ever lived and been used by God. His name was Jesus. Everybody else falls short, way short, and yet God is still willing to use us. Our usability doesn’t depend on our perfection but His.

Noah was a drunk

Abraham was too old to be used

Isaac was a daydreamer

Jacob was a liar

Leah was ugly

Joseph was abused

Moses had a stuttering problem

Gideon was afraid

Samson had long hair and was a womanizer

Rahab was a prostitute

Jeremiah and Timothy were too young

David had an affair and was a murderer

Elijah was suicidal

Isaiah preached naked

Jonah ran from God

Naomi was a widow

Job went bankrupt

Peter denied Christ

The Disciples fell asleep while praying

Martha worried about everything

The Samaritan woman was divorced, more than once

Zaccheus was too small

Paul was too religious

Timothy had an ulcer.

AND Lazarus was dead!

And yet God still used each and every one. Don’t use your sin as a license to keep messing up but also realize it isn’t a scarlet letter painted on your forehead that says God rejects you and won’t use you.

Yes I know that doesn’t seem to make much since, and the pious religious crowd screams “that’s not fair!” But that’s grace and that’s why we sing about it being so amazing.

****

#4 - God’s people will always stand out from among the rest

Everywhere Esther goes she is impressing people. The most telling thing is found in her name. Hadassah was her original Jewish name. The Persian would give her the name Esther. It means “star.” The people God chooses and uses will always stand out. They will be a star. Not b/c of who we are but b/c of who is in us. Jesus can take a messed up, mixed up, broken, hopeless imperfect person like Esther, like me, like you and make us into a star. I’d say that’s moving up!

*****

We could be tempted to look at Esther and judge her. She should have done this or not done that. Maybe so. But since the author doesn’t do that, it tells me there is something else God wants us to see here. This is a reminder that life can sometimes get messy. It’s not always neat and clean. Things happen quickly and you can find yourself in a mess before you know it. Lines between right and wrong sometimes become blurry in the heat of a moment. We have to act as best as we know how and sometimes we fail in doing what is right. Even then God is gracious and all powerful and He can use you and your situations to perfect His purposes in us and through us. Be careful how we judge others because we may just be judging someone that God is working on in a way that we can’t see.

Sermon 5-8-11

2011-05-09T08:38:00.001-04:00

“LIFESTYLES OF THE RICH AND SHAMELESS”

Esther 1

Background:

-author unkown

-Esther and Mordecai are main characters

-Esther isn’t exactly to be seen as a perfect role model

-God is never mentioned yet His presence is evident.

The year is 483 BC. The Jewish had been taken into exile approximately 100 years earlier by the Babylonians as discipline from God for repeatedly ignoring His calls to turn from their idols and return to Him. This was a turning point for the Jews that would forever change their way of life. Though God sent them into exile He promised that a remnant would one day return to Jerusalem. Nearly 50 years into captivity Cyrus the Great who founded the Persian empire invaded Babylon and overthrew Belshazzar. He would then issue a decree that allowed the Jews to return home (Ezra 1). His motives were not altogether pure as he likely saw them as another land to collect taxes from. Some Jews would travel back and begin to rebuild but most stayed behind. The story of Esther picks up about 50 years after Cyrus’ decree. His grandson Xerxes is on the throne and the question confronting the Jews is “are we still in the covenant relationship with God?”

This book is for anyone who finds themselves far from God, far from perfect, far from an easy life. You wonder does God still care about me? Does He still want a relationship with me? Can He still use me? The answer is overwhelmingly, yes! One person even with their back against the wall can still be used by God to make a difference. This is Esther’s story and how God used her to save an entire race of people.

Through everyday, unforeseen, and unlikely circumstances God can make us into something(one) that we could never be otherwise. // PROVIDENCE!

*****

We have a fascination with rich people...Ex- The Royal Wedding...no one televised my wedding or got up at 4AM to see it... For some reason we are tempted to think that way of life must be infinitely better than the life I live...Not so fast...

I. WEALTH (vs. 1-5)

Vs. 1 - Leader over most of the known world. Greece only major territory not under his rule.

Vs. 2-5 - He throws a 180 day party for all his important dignitaries and then a 7 day party for the common folk to show off all that he has. Hmmm. Maybe he should have listened to last week’s message...

1 Timothy 6:17 - “Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God who gives richly all things to enjoy.”

Here’s why:

Prov. 23:5 - “Will you set your eyes on that which is not? For riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away like an eagle toward heaven.”

Let me tell you what happens to the King...Esther is written anywhere from 25-over 100 years after the events happen so the readers would already know this story and be captivated by the irony of it (It’s full of irony.)...Xerxes and the Persians wanted Greece bad. His dad, Darius, when he was the king had been defeated trying to invade Athens. So they are in a period of resting and recuperating. It is believed at this party Xerxes formed a Great War Council to make plans for taking Greece. Four years later he will invade Greece. He gets his backside whooped and ends up coming home broke. Wealth and wisdom apart from God will not last. Being prideful only sets you up for a big fall.

Ex- Donald Trump bragging about forcing Pres. Obama to show birth certificate then Obama gets boost by killing OBL.

Somebody - Jesus = Nothing

Jesus + Nothing = Everything

II. DECISIONS (vs. 6-21)

Vs. 6-8 - Liberty to drink as much as you want. Restraints are cast off... It was also a social norm to drink and deliberate matters of state. The thinking was if we come up with ideas drunk and in the morning when we are sober we still like them then we will act upon them.

First bad decision: Drinking alcohol will help me to make better decisions.

Prov. 31:4-5 - “It is not for kings, O Lemuel, It is not for kings to drink wine, Nor for princes intoxicating drink; Lest they drink and forget the law, And pervert the justice of all the afflicted.”

Vs. 9-12 - The king wants his wife to parade naked in the middle of the party. Does anybody think this is a good idea?

Second bad decision: Treat his wife in an undignified and immoral manner.

Vs. 13-21 - “wise men who understood the times” - They base their opinions on what is popular at the time. We call that relevance at the expense of truth.

Third bad decision: Listen to counselors who tell you to do what feels right at the time.

Psalm 1: 1-3 - “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly,

nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper.”

III. MARRIAGE (vs. 21-22)

This marital relationship has deteriorated and is now done. He dismisses his wife (and possibly had her executed). If they have kids consider the impact this makes on them and then we wonder why these kings had such a bad history?

What it boils down to here, is that the king is declaring that marriage is all about the man. He is the head of the home and the wife must do everything he says. If she doesn’t then she can be replaced. That sounds kind of far-fetched and out-there, but I think it is closer to reality than we won’t to admit. Marriages get in trouble when they become centered on self rather than the other person. He/she better do what I want and make me happy. If not I’ll find someone else.

If that is your opinion then your marriage is not grounded in the truth of Jesus Christ, it is God-less and it will crumble.

Eph. 5:21-28 - “submitting to one another in the fear of God. Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body. Therefore, just as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself.

*****

When you get to the heart of the matter, this isn’t just a picture of the lifestyle of the rich and shameless, it is a picture of the lifestyle of the world without God. Lives crumble without a relationship to God. As Christians this is what we are up against. This is the type of world we live in and unless we have a deep abiding relationship with Jesus Christ we will conform to it. But with that deep abiding relationship to Him not only can we survive but we can thrive.

“One decision can change everything.”

Romans 12:1-2 - “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Sermon 4-24-11 (EASTER)

2011-04-25T08:50:00.002-04:00

“THE TOMB IS EMPTY - WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT THAT!”

Luke 24:1-12

There are several non-negotiable, line - in - the - sand claims that Christianity makes.

Here are a few...

-God is the Holy and Just Creator of the world

-The Bible is His Holy, Inspired Word given to us so that we could know Him more and is the only book we need to live our lives by.

-There is an eternity with two possible destinations and everyone who has ever lived will spend forever in one of those two places.

-Jesus is God who came in the flesh as man and lived a sinless life.

-He died on a Roman cross to pay the penalty for our sin, was buried in a tomb and rose again on the third day thereby defeating death and proving once and for all that He is Lord of all.

If any are not true then our faith is foolish, our doctrine is deception, and our eternity is endangered. But if they are true, that makes anyone who denies them a heretic, false teacher, and a non-Christian. So which is it? Today we will focus on the last of the non-negotiables I mentioned. The fact that Jesus was crucified for our sins and rose back to life three days later. My hope today is not that you leave merely convinced of what is true but that you would also respond appropriately to that truth.

Last week we noticed in John’s Gospel that Jesus was officially and indisputably declared dead on the cross, we studied how Jospeh and Nicodemus publicly declared their allegiance for Jesus by claiming the body and burying him in a tomb that Joseph himself purchased and donated. That is where we pick up our story...

Jesus was hurriedly buried on Friday because the Saturday Sabbath was coming. Sensing an inadequate preparation for the dead body, a group of ladies head out to the tomb on Sunday morning now that the Sabbath has passed. The emotional state of these women is fragile. They are grieving, they are fearful, and they are uncertain as to how they will get in the tomb to do this job.

They show up, the stone is moved, Luke records no guards - perhaps they had abandoned post by now, and most importantly they go in and there is no Jesus.

There was / is no dispute. The tomb was empty. The clothes were there, the body was not. The only questions at stake are where is Jesus and how will people respond to an empty tomb. Consider several responses this morning...

I. CONFUSION (vs. 4a)

“greatly perplexed” - puzzled - it means you have a problem and can’t figure it out. In fact you look at the situation and don’t see any solution or explanation for it. Nothing about this situation made sense for the women. “He’s dead, He should be right here. What happened? There must be some logical explanation but I sure don’t know what it is.”

There is no reason for anybody to ever be perplexed or puzzled about Jesus Christ.

We know who He is:

John 14:9,11 - “...He who has seen Me has seen the Father...believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father in Me.”

We know what His mission was:

Matt. 20:28 - “...the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give His life a ransom for many.”

The only reason anyone ever has to be confused about Jesus is because of a lack of faith. The person who won’t believe in the claims of Christ or the occurance of his death, burial and resurrection ignores overwhelming, indisputable evidence. The person who won’t believe that a God would save them after all the sins they’ve committed ignores the overwhelming, indisputable love of God. The person who thinks he doesn’t need Jesus ignores the overwhelming, indisputable mess that he’s made of his life on his own. At some point you must believe on Jesus and put your trust in Him alone.

A good reason to do that comes from the second response we note:

II. PROPHETIC (vs. 5-8)

Angels appear inside the tomb...

1. The Ladies displayed Reverence (5a)

“bowed”- they recognized they were in the presence of heavenly beings. God was speaking to them through these angelic messengers.

2. The Ladies were Rebuked (5b)

He’s alive, but you’re acting like He’s dead and gone. Too many Christians and churches act like we worship a dead Savior. We walk around all mopey popey, we come to church if we feel like it, and then we moan over the hopelessness of the world and our lives. I’ve been to some funeral home visitations that had more life and liveliness to them than most churches. You go to a funeral home to mourn a person who is dead and not coming back but when you come to chruch you are coming to worship somebody who stared death in the face and said is that all you got! And here’s the thing...today is Easter so we are natually a little more jubilant but next week Jesus will be just as alive as He is today! And the resurrection power we fawn over today will be the same power that is available to us next week, and the week after that.

Things in your life may not be good today but your Savior sure is. He is alive, He is powerful, He is working in you and around you, so lift your head up to Him and if you can’t then let Him lift it for you and trust Him that He is going to see you through the tough times. Christians, don’t you act like your God is dead.

3. The Ladies Remembered (6-8)

The events of this day should not suprise us. Jesus himself predicted or prophecied 3X this would happen.

“must be delivered” - given over. The Jewish leadership wanted Him gone, the Roman leadership was indifferent, and ultimately it was because of all of us that He died. The “sinful people” says it all. Jesus told us He was giving Himself up for us to take our place.

“be crucified” - the beatings, mockings, the nails, the cross all of that was to carry out the physical sacrifice that must be made but the greatest and most horrific occurance on the cross was the spiritual aspect of it where God treated His own Son like a vile sinner and poured out His wrath on Him though He had done nothing wrong. Jesus told us that He must die in order for us to live.

“the third day rise again” - He made it clear...kill me and bury me but in three days I’ll be back. Jesus told us He would not be defeated.

Illst- one of the great legends in our country is Babe Ruth’s called shot...That is disputed but there is no disputing Jesus and "the shot" He called.

III. DISBELIEF (vs. 9-11)

“idle tales” - (leros) - medical language to describe delirium. Not only did the disciples not believe them but they thought the women had lost their minds.

They wanted nothing to do with the thought that Jesus somehow came back to life. This is reflective of some people today who aren’t really looking for God to intervene in their life. They don’t care to believe what He’s done for them. They think we Christians are silly or crazy for believing what we do. But one day the world will care to believe on Him.

John 12:47-50 - “And if anyone hears My words and does not believe, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world. He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him—the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day. For I have not spoken on My own authority; but the Father who sent Me gave Me a command, what I should say and what I should speak. And I know that His command is everlasting life. Therefore, whatever I speak, just as the Father has told Me, so I speak.”

IV. AMAZEMENT (vs. 12)

“But Peter” - there has always been something unique about Peter hasn’t it? No one could show more spiritual insight and wisdom one moment and then turn into a complete dunderhead the next faster than Peter.

He is the first of the disciples to enter the tomb and see the body-less clothes for himself.

“marveled” - amazement with a suggestion of beginning to speculate on the matter. This wasn’t a statement of faith but he was certainly considering it. While others refused to believe, Peter isn’t so certain. He has learned that Jesus can be shocking and surprising but also He was always right. For Peter this is a moment of reflection, decision, and faith.

Is the resurrection the only adequate explanation for what Peter sees? Isn’t the resurrection what Jesus promised? Could He really be alive? Did God’s plan for redemption really come to pass before my eyes?

That’s where we leave the story this morning. You know the rest of it. Now we move away from Peter and turn to ourselves. The questions he wrestled with are the ones we must wrestle with. What do you think about this story?

Paul tells us how we need to respond to it...

Romans 10:9 - “that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”

Romans 10:11 - “Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.”

Romans 10:13 - “Whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

Sermon 4-17-11

2011-04-25T08:47:00.002-04:00

“GOING PUBLIC FOR JESUS”

John 19:38-42

If there is one thing I know about people in the Bible belt, it’s that they are not afraid to let you know about the things they are passionate about. Their allegiance is well known and unashamed...

-football, Nascar, favorite store, political party, clothing, purses, etc.

You have your opinions, your favorites, your loyalties and you are not afraid to share them and support them regardless of what anyone else thinks. But do we feel the same way about Jesus? Some certainly do, but not all. For some reason there are those who claim to follow Christ but only do so at a healthy, secret distance.

Now I am not justifying this as you will notice in the message today but I am not suprised by it either since the very same thing was happening in Jesus’ day as well.

John 12:42-43 - “Nevertheless even among the rulers many believed in Him, but because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue; for they loved the praise of men nore han the praise of God.”

Today we will look into the lives of two of those men referred to by John.

1) Joseph of Arimathea

-Wealthy (Matt. 27:57)

-A prominent member of Sanhedrin (Mark 15:43)

-Praying for the Messiah to come (Mark 15:43)

-Good and just man who did not consent to the decision to have Christ crucified (Luke 23:50-51) (although given what comes next we may wonder how public his dissent was)

-Disciple of Jesus (believed in him for salvation, gave evidence by the fruit he bore, desire to follow Jesus)

-He kept it a secret (that means he would tell no one, he would either publically agree with the venom spoken of Christ at the very least remain silent)

His reluctance to identify himself with Jesus could hardly be commendable.

2) Nicodemus

-A member of Sanhedrin also (John 3:1)

-Came to Jesus at night (John 3:2)

-He recognized the hand of God on Jesus, but left confused over the requirement to be ‘born again’ to get in the kingdom of God (John 3:3-9)

-Attempted to take up for Jesus (w/o admitting his allegiance to Him) at a council meeting (John 7:50-52)

Up until this point he is known as someone who has always been interested in Jesus but only from a safe, secretive distance so that no one will find out.

I. Why Would Someone Secretly Follow Christ?

Why would they put their faith and trust in Him but be reluctant to testify of Him or serve Him openly in front of other people, including their friends and peers who aren’t followers of Christ?

To answer in one word: FEAR

Vs. 38 - “fear of the Jews”

What would they have done to these men?

12:42 - “they would have been put out of the synagogue” and by this time who knows maybe something even worse.

12:43 - “loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.”

So if you put all this together it comes down to a fear of ridicule, fear of losing your paycheck, fear of losing your prestigious status, and even a fear of physical harm. Now before we harshly condemn these two guys consider that the disciples fared no better. They had all scattered and as Peter tried to watch the crucifixion events unfold from a safe, secret distance he too denied Jesus 3X. But let’s not stop there. Let’s look at ourselves for a moment...

Teenagers, when the peer pressure is on do you boldly stand for Christ even in the face of ridicule? Adults, when the conversation at work or family reunion turns to religious matters or something that affords an opportunity to speak of Christ do you engage it or grow quiet and let it pass? Do you proudly tell of what is happening in your church and your life or do you hide it because you think they will make fun of you, or break off a friendship? If not the root cause if fear!

Here is a fact...if you are going to be the witness for Christ that he wants you to be there will be some ridicule. You will lose some of the praise of men, you will be kicked out of some groups. And if those things are what is important to you, then you will at best only follow Jesus from a safe, secretive distance. Jesus is not your Lord, your comfort is.

If you are living the life of a secret disciple in your family, school, work, among your friends, etc...it is because you fear something. Go ahead right now and name that fear and please know you are not the first to deal with it, but...let’s don’t accept that as our way of living.

Trans: These two men in our text didn’t.

Vs. 38 - “asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus...”

This was a huge developement. In Mark’s account he commends Joseph for the courage it took to do this. The Romans usually only handed the body over to close relatives. And since Jesus was accused of conspiring against the Jewish and Roman authorities this would have put Joseph under the microscope and clearly and publically aligned him with Jesus. Nicodemus is also seen here very publically teaming up with Joseph. These two men are no longer hiding in the shadows, they are fully declaring their allegiance to Christ.

II. What Would Compel Someone To Go Public For Christ?

What is it that after all this time of secret meetings, keeping mouth shut, going along with opinions that you didn’t share would compel you to say enough is enough. I can’t live quietly about Jesus anymore?

To answer in one word: CROSS

Vs. 38 - “after this” - (‘Later’ - NIV) Refers back to the crucifixion.

In these last few hours these men have watched their God fulfill thousands of years of prophecy by dying on the cross as an innocent man so that the forgiveness of the sins of the world could be secured. God was pouring out his wrath on his son He was pouring out his love on us and in the face of that many still chose to gather around and mock, ridicule, laugh, and taunt Jesus.

Romans 5:8 - “But God demonstrates His own love toward us in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us.”

When these two finally got a hold of that love, they could no longer remain silent. Who could? When you understand how much your God and your Lord and Savior Jesus loved you and what lengths they went to to make that love available to you, you can’t keep silent.

These words spoke to me in my quiet time this week...

John 12:1 - “...Jesus came to Bethany where Lazarus was who had been dead, whom He had raised from the dead.”

I’m like that Lazarus...I was dead but am not any more because Jesus stood at the door of the tomb that was my dead life and called out to me to come out into new life and I thank Him that the alive man who came out wasn’t anything like the dead one they put in!

Illst- Many times someone recomends me to a good new restraunt...why? That place did something for them and they sure enjoyed it...well do you know what Jesus did for you? Do you enjoy it? If so, then at some point you are going to be compelled to be very public about your faith.

III. What Happens When Someone Does Go Public For Christ?

To answer in one word: FREEDOM

1. Freedom from what others think

Joseph and Nicodemus will no longer be bound by the opinions of the Sanhedrin. They will be ‘blackballed’ if not worse but they don’t care. The most freeing thought you can ever have is this: The only person I need to please is God.

2. Freedom from what others do.

Let them talk, let them persecute me, let them fire me, just let me have my Jesus and lift Him up and I will be just fine.

Matt. 5:11-12 - “Blessed are you when they revile you and persecute you and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake.”

3. Freedom to do whatever God asks you to do.

God used these men in as valuable a role as anyone in the kingdom but he only did it when they went public for Him. Their valuable role was getting the body, preparing it for burial, and placing it in the tomb. Had they not it would have been thrown into a ditch with hundreds of other rotting, decaying bodies and when Christ rises again it would be hard to disprove the theory that his body was stolen. And by doing this the prophecy was fulfilled:

Isaiah 53:9 - “And they made His grave with the wicked- but with the rich at His death because He had done no violence, nor was any deceit in His mouth.”

We needed the tomb. Joseph owns it and gives it for Jesus. Nicodemus will bring a healthy amount of spices. These men give a great effort and amount of resources for their Jesus.

Perhaps the second most freeing thought you could ever have is: Everything I have is His. He can have what He wants when He wants it. Or to say it another way as Jesus did: it is better to give than to receive.

*****

1) Christ wasn’t ashamed of you...

He knows everything you have ever done, and what He knows isn’t pretty is it? Don’t you dare think you deserve God’s love because we don’t. That’s what makes it so amazing. That He could look at us and still say, I want you. I will do what is necessary to make it possible for you to enter My kingdom and be My people.

2) Christ wasn’t ashamed to die a humiliating death for you...

Read the crucifixion narrative, watch Mel Gibson’s movie “The Passion.” There was nothing honorable or glorifying about the death Jesus died. In his death He appeared to be a failure, his cause was hopelessly defeated, how could a self-proclaimed king with the power and authority of God allow himself to die that way? He did it for you so that you wouldn’t have to.

3) Christ wasn’t ashamed to call you to publically follow Him...

Matt. 10:32-33 - “Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess befoe My Father who is in Heaven. But whoever denies Me before men, him I will also deny before My Father who is in heaven.”

Ways to go public....

Baptism

Witness

Invite someone at Easter

Sermon 4-10-11

2011-04-10T22:54:00.000-04:00

THE KIND OF PEOPLE YOU WON’T FIND IN THE KINGDOM OF GOD

Mark 4:1-9, 13-20

One of the issues that comes up often in the life of a church, pastor, and those who are genuinely trying to minister is “why aren’t the people responding? Why did no one come forward at the invitation, why was the visitation team not well received by the peopel they visited? Why has my child continued to ignore my conversations with them about Jesus?”

No doubt some of Jesus’ disciples were beginning to ask the same things. We have taught, healed, cast out demons, and yet our numbers aren’t significantly growing. The truth was and still is today that many will gather to hear Jesus but few will follow Him.

The Good news in that and that we should see in this parable is that while many may not follow Christ, some will and that number will do nothing but grow as the years go by.

Vs. 2 - “parables” - An earthly story with a heavenly meaning? Sure but its more...according to Dr. Danny Akin...

1) Parables provide insight into the nature, coming, growth, and fulfillment of the Kingdom of God.

2) Parables are by design intended to be thought provoking and surprising. They have a way of sneaking up on us.

3) Parables are used to stimulate thinking and cause the hearer to carefully contemplate what they ar hearing.

4) Parables use everyday objects, events, and circumstances to illustrate spiritual truth usually with a new turn or twist.

5) Parables reveal more to those with receptive ears and hides truth from those with dull ears.

6) Ultimately parables draw attention to Jesus as God’s Messiah and call us to make a personal decision concerning Him.

I. Rejected the Invitation Into the Kingdom of God (vs. 1-9)

Vs. 3-9 is called the Parable of the Seed / Sower

Cultural context: hold seed in apron with one hand and broadcast with the other. The seed sown would then be plowed under.

In this parable the seed is of course the word of God and more specifically the preaching of the Gospel as the entrance into the Kingdom of God. The soils will be the hearts of the people who respond to the preaching.

Note the different soils the seed lands on:

-Path (wayside)

-Rocky Ground

-Among Thorns

-Good fertile soil

The point we need to see clearly in this section is that we must sow the seed of the Gospel so that others may hear and respond. Responses will vary and its not our job to take soil samples and then go preach where it is fertile. It is our job to preach and leave the harvest up to God.

-pastor the deadest church, still must preach

-minister in the most pagan city, still must sow

-most spiritually disinterested kids, still must tell

Romans 10:14 - “How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed and how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?”

So that there is no misunderstanding...what about those who never have the opportunity to hear the word about Christ and His Kingdom?

1) They are not innocent. They are still condemned b/c they are sinners.

2)They can know some revelation about God (Romans 1).

3) Their plight should increase our urgency to go tell them.

4) If they truly went to heaven for not knowing then our best mission strategy would be to not tell anyone. That was not Jesus’ strategy though was it?

II. Reacted With Their Heart (vs. 13-20)

Jesus now explains the parables. We get insight into how people will respond to the Gospel and from the looks of things there are some who won’t be in the kingdom and we’ll see why...

1. Hard Heart (vs. 4,15)

They heard it, which means they were somewhere listening to someone tell them about Jesus. Satan comes and takes away the seed though. This path represents the hard hearted or tough minded individual.

This is the guy you went to visit and after a couple of minutes he yelled at you to get off his porch. Maybe its the guy who came to church last Sunday and if you talked to him in the parking lot he would say - music too loud, sermon too long, didn’t like what preacher had to say, ready to get my beer, boat, and head to lake so I can really enjoy myself.

This person is totally unresponsive. He quickly dismissed the Word without giving it careful consideration. He has listened to the devil far too long.

2. Shallow Heart (vs. 5-6, 16-17)

Vs. 16 - “Likewise” puts him in same spiritual standing as first heart.

This person heard the word, immediately received it with joy, had no root, endured for a while, but troubles came and they fell away.

This is the one who doesn’t immediately try to escape on Sunday after the sermon is over but instead comes up to me and excitedly says - best sermon I ever heard, needed that, God spoke to me. They may even be so excited they come back on Sunday night and bring a friend. But by Monday...their old friends put pressure on them to return to their old ways, someone laughs at them for being in church, and they are never seen again. [Yea i’ve had a few of those...]

They are easy listeners who make a quick profession of faith, pray a prayer, lift a hand, say a quick yes without considering all that it means.

3. Crowded Heart (vs. 7, 18-19)

They get closer than #1,#2...They heard, received and started to grow but the cares of the world, lure of riches, and desires for things not of God (idolatry) crowd out the word in their heart. When you fill your life with the cares of the world you leave no room for God.

This is the person who has some interest in God but he is letting other things get in his way. He says - lake, working (tired when I’m not), travel on the weekends, etc. This life is more important to them than the life to come. His stuff is more important to him than the Savior. There is no real surrender to Jesus as Lord. He finds more pleasure in wealth and desires than in Jesus.

Matt. 6:24 - “No one can serve two masters for either he will hate the one and love the other or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and mammon.”

4. Fruitful Heart (vs. 8, 20)

They hear, accept, bear fruit

Satan was unconvincing, tribulations and persecutions do not deter them, worldly cares and riches do not distract them.

Some are more fruitful than others but they bear fruit nonetheless. There are places around the world in which the Gospel may be more fruitful, some cities and some churches will bear more, some generations may see more saved, but since Christ began to proclaim the Gospel countless millions that can only be numbered in heaven have received the seed and bore fruit. If the Lord tarries millions more will too. As long as the Gospel is being sowed there will be rejections but their will be salvations.

*****

Some will try to figure out how they fit in these parables? Do some of these soils represent lost people, backsliders, does it mean you can lose your salvation? There is debate over this and perhaps trying to apply these questions to this parable is not what our Lord intended. But here is my interpretation:

The first three soils represent lost people. They were never saved and have never been saved even though some may have given that impression.

Matt. 24:13 - “He who endures to the end shall be saved.”

The final soil is obviously the one who is saved and this should offer us assurance of our salvation.

John 15:5- I am the vine you are the branches, He who abides in me and I in Him bears much fruit; for without me you can do nothing.”

Sermon 4-3-11

2011-04-10T22:51:00.001-04:00

“THE KIND OF PEOPLE YOU FIND IN THE KINGDOM OF GOD”

Colossians 4:7-18

The people found in the kingdom of God have always existed as a community or family. Rick Warren recently said, “Jesus began his Church as a FAMILY! It became an institution in Rome, a political tool in Europe & a business in America.”

The people inside that family:

-are diverse

-have different jobs (some high profile- some that may seem menial)

-some become well known - some are nothing more than footnotes

-stick together

-work together

-united by one person (Jesus), one event (death, burial, resurrection), and one purpose (be His witness)

Within this family you often find God-appointed leaders and a whole group of people who support their leader. They are valuable because without them the leader could not do it all on his own.

Noah and Abraham - had their sons

Moses - able men

David - mighty men

Jesus- disciples

Paul - travel companions

It is these travel companions we want to look at today. They represent some of the people you will find in the Kingdom of God. It is likely that everyone of us today can relate to at least one of these people. In the 21st century you are living out the life of a 1st century Christian.

I. TYCHICUS - A Fortunate Friend

mentioned 5 times in NT.

- We are first introduced to him in Acts 20 as Paul is nearing the end of his third missionary journey where he was returning to Jerusalem to bring an offering that the Gentile churches had taken up for the Jewish church. Tychicus then is a traveling companion of Paul’s. That says something about his character.

Going along on a journey like Paul was on was no small undertaking. Travel in those days was far more difficult and dangerous than we understand. It most certainly was more time consuming as well. Perhaps the most telling aspect of this travel was that Paul was repeatedly warned that trouble awaited him in Jerusalem and his history of trouble certainly made that warning seem imminent. Tychicus would have heard these warnings and yet he remained with Paul. When Paul writes this letter to the Colossians four years later from a Roman prison Tychicus is still with him.

No wonder Paul refers to him as a “beloved brother” and “faithful minister.” It is a blessing to have someone who will stick with you even with the situation is difficult and in doing so it may cost them.

“The greatest ability is dependability.” - WW.

The church needs people who can be counted on, who will stick with you even when the going is tough, people who don’t care what serving Jesus costs them.

Prov. 17:17 - “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”

Here is why we need people like that- vs. 7b-8...

We have troubles and it is good to have a close Christian we can count on to be there for us and care for us. That is why it is so important to be in a church family. Trouble will find you but when it does you will also find some people who love Jesus and you and are willing to “travel” that difficult road with you. If hang around this church and get involved you will find some people like that.

May God increase the Tychicus’ in our church.

II. ONESIMUS - An Encouraging Testimony

Onesimus had been a slave owned by Philemon, one of the key leaders at the Colossian church. He robbed Philemon and ran away to Rome. By the sovereignty of God he meets Paul and surrenders his life to Jesus. Hence the phrase “who is one of you.” The fact that he is designated as faithful and beloved means that in a short period of time Onesimus has really changed his life and you can see Jesus working all over him.

When we hear testimonies like that it is an encouragement because it reminds us of what God can do in the life of a person who will turn from their sins and put their faith in Christ. It also reminds us that it is worth it to keep witnessing. Not everyone will receive our message but some will and when you find that one who does it just lifts the church up.

No doubt some of you today have greatly encouraged others because of the change they have seen in your life due to Jesus. That’s what he does and only He can do it.

What I wonder is how many are here today that are like Onesimus prior to his change...you need Jesus...he can turn you from being a “robber on the run” to a faithful and beloved brother. What an encouragement you would be to many on this day if you would just surrender to Him!

III. ARISTARCHUS - The Sympathetic Servant

One of three Jews mentioned here, a native of Thessalonica, and also a travel companion of Paul’s. Like Tychicus he endured riots, storms, and shipwrecks to accompany Paul and his missions.

“fellow prisoner”- It is believed that he was not personally arrested but instead voluntarily chose to live under prison confinement with Paul giving up his freedoms just so that he could minister to Paul’s needs. It’s hard to imagine anyone being more Christ-like than this isn’t it?

Paul is the one who gets all the fame and noteriety. He is the one who is contstantly “on the stage, under the lights.” But he can’t do it without someone being there to take care of him. Any leader would be blessed to have someone like this at their side.

IV. MARK - Second Chance

He had been a companion of Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey. He deserted them apparently as the going got tough. His desertion would later become a point of friction between Paul, Barnabas, and the church. Barnabas wanted to take Mark back on the second journey but Paul did not. The two companions would end up splitting over this.

But the story doesn’t end there. By the time Paul writes Colossians he and Mark are reconciled. In 2 Timothy 4:11 Paul refers to Mark as “useful to me for service.” He has changed, learned from his failures and God has granted him another opportunity to fulfill his ministry. In fact he would of course be one of four men who wrote the inspired accounts of Jesus’ life.

What an encouragement this should be for us. You may have messed up big time in your life and I don’t just mean before you became a Christian. You may have messed up as a Christian. You may have greatly damaged your witness or lost your ministry as a result of something. That does not mean that God is finished with you or can’t use you anymore. There is something called forgiveness, restoration, and grace.

If you have done something regretful and it has cost you, repent! Turn from it, turn back to God, accept your discipline, and find someone who will help walk you back from the gates of Hell. If you ever thought that you had to be perfect to attend church and serve God, then someone lied to you. The reason we exist is because you and I aren’t perfect, but in Christ He makes us perfect. Our God is the God of second chances. If you don’t believe just look at the person next to you. You just have to be willing to not quit, but instead turn back to Him.

V. JESUS JUSTUS - The Unkown Soldier

We know nothing about him except that he comforted Paul. He represents those faithful believers who serve Godbut whose deeds are not announced for the world to know. However we do know that God keeps an accurate record of our deeds done for Him and He will reward us accordingly.

Just like with the tomb of the unknown soldier, we may not know who is buried there but we choose to honor that person by perpetually guarding it and recognizing their service. So too there are people in the kingdom and even in this church who do things that are unkown to many, they may never get their name on a building, may never stand on stage in front of the crowd, and may never receive a dime for their work, but God knows what you did, and He will honor you for it.

Matt. 6:3-4 - “But when you do a charitable dded do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, that your charitable deed may be in secret and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly.”

VI. EPAPHRAS - The Prayer Warrior

as noted in chapter 1 he was the founding pastor of this church. He had traveled to Rome to update Paul on the challenges this church was facing.

Even though he was seperated from the church at the moment he did not cease to pray for them.

“always” - not just when he felt like it or had time

“laboring fervently” - agonizing - speaks to a grueling athletic competition. His people were in a war and Epaphras was determined to fight it from his knees.

“for you” -here is more of that specific prayer we recently talked about. His heart is for this local church body.

“stand perfect and complete in all the will of God” - He wants them to be mature and satisfied in the will of God. This isn’t just ‘get well soon’ praying or ‘grant me traveling mercies.’ This is for the people to stand firm in their faith in Christ, get in the trenches, and fight for His Kingdom.

Epaphras is the only one in this list commended for his prayer life. I’m sure the others prayed too, but this man stood out. We may not all pray with the same intensity but in our midst, there are some who stand out as genuine prayer warriors. To you I say thank you.

VII. LUKE - The Professional

“beloved physician” - He was an educated and cultured man. In his day the profession of medicine had been perfected by the Greeks, and physicians were held in the highest regard. Yet he surrendered his talent to God and walked away from what might have been a lucrative private practice to be another of Paul’s close travel companions who would go on to write two books that made up a sizeable portion of NT.

He is the classic example of a professional man who uses his skills in the service of the Lord and gives himself up to go wherever God calls him to go.

Just because you got a high level of education and worked your way into a good paying job or business doesn’t mean you are above God’s call on your life. It may be that God allowed you to obtain all that not so that you could make a good living doing what you want but so that you could use those skills and experiences to serve in His kingdom.

VIII. DEMAS - The Drop Out

Seeing Demas’ name in this list is like looking at a photograph of your family taken years ago. At the time of the picture things seemed okay but years later you look at it and point to one person at the edge who is no longer in the family because of a divorce or death, or they ran away.

Demas at the time of this writing was one of Paul’s fellow laborers. But when you read Paul’s final letter which was written to Timothy before Paul died he said this about Demas:

2 Tim. 4:10 - “Demas has forsaken me having loved this present world, and departed for Thessalonica...”

“world” - refers to the whole system of things that runs this world without regard for God.

I’m sure it hurt Paul to have Demas abandon him, it would have hurt the local church, and the work of the Lord, but the one it hurt the most - was Demas himself. He wasted his life and walked away from the one person who could satisfy him - not Paul, but Jesus.

Just like Jesus had his Judas, Paul had a Demas. Tragically there will always be dropouts no matter what we do...Drop outs are no reflection on your ministry!

IX - NYMPHAS - The Giver

Not sure if this was masculine or feminine name. What you need to know is this person had a house and allowed the church to use it to meet in. This was a common practice in the early church. Whatever you had, if it could be of use to the church and serve Kingdom purposes you offered it.

Acts 2:44-45 - “Now all who believed were together and had all things in comon and sold their possessions and goods and divided them among all as anyone had need.”

Some didn’t but said they did (Acts 5) and that didn’t turn out so good for them...

Whatever you have, consider that just maybe God allowed you to have so that it could be used for his kingdom purposes.

X. ARCHIPPUS - Called To Ministry

“take heed to the ministry you have received from the Lord, that you may fulfill it” - it is believed he was the son of Philemon and had some sort of leadership role in one of these churches, most likely pastor or elder. God had called him out from his family and the people to take on this ministry. He still does that. How do you think I got here? This church has a history of sending out people into what we call “full-time professional ministry.” It’s been years since that has happened. I wonder who is next? I wonder if that person is sitting here today? A child, teenager, adult?

*****

Some of the people we have seen in the kingdom were friends, encouraging testimonies of God’s grace, humble servants some of whom got the spotlight while others were behind the scenes, some made the most of their second chances, some were prayer warriors, professionals who used thier skills for God’s glory, some gave what they had, unfortunately some dropped out, and of course some are called out.

This church is full of people just like this list. I had to restrain myself today because I desperately wanted to call out some of you and acknowledge you as modern day examples of some of these great men and women. To do so though I would surely have left out far too many. But if you fit these descriptions you know who you are, I know who you are, and most importantly God knows who you are. I praise Him for people like you.

Here’s the best part. Do you know what the list represents? Each name represents a person who made the decision to trust Jesus with their life, grow in their relationship with Him and then set off on a mission He called them to.

Is that your life today? If not, Jesus is calling you to add your name to this list.

Sermon 3-27-11

2011-03-31T08:43:00.002-04:00

“THE WORLD IS WATCHING, WHAT DO THEY SEE?”

Colossians 4:5-6

Now more than ever the lives of Christians are under a 24 hour microscope because the world around us has become obsessed with looking in on other people’s lives. It all began about 15 years ago with a show on MTV called “The Real World.” Then came shows like “Survivor,” “Big Brother,” and “Bachelor(ette).” Currently we have social media sites like MySpace, Twitter, and Facebook that have placed us all out there for the world to see our lives. That’s not a bad thing. After all as Christians we are called to be “salt and light.” Salt does no good when kept in a cabinet and a light is useless when hidden by a closed room. Just like people know it when you season your food heavily in salt or they see when you come in and cut the lights on, they should be able to know when a Christian is around them and see what is happening in our lives. The question is what do they see?

Paul addresses this issue with the church in Colosse. The Christians there were a minority in a hostile environment and needed to be cautious about the impressions they made on their neighbors. They were not resentful that they were marginilized in their society. They believed they existed for a kingdom and a purpose that was greater than the world they lived in. The pagans around them were simply outsiders that were worthy of sympathy and needed to be shown the entrance door into the kingdom. To do that their life would have to match their message. Paul tells them how to do it...

I. The Way We Are To Live (vs. 5)

“Walk” - “to order one’s behavior” - it speaks to our conduct in daily life. In Paul’s letters just like this one, he spends a lot of time telling us how great God is, how amazing it was that Jesus would come and die for our sins so that we could be saved, how much God loves us and blesses us, but he also spends much time telling us how we are now to live in light of that.

1. Live Wisely

“wisdom” - It is properly evaluating circumstances and making godly decisions. In this use it is more than intelligence or academic achievement. It speaks to how we live before the world in a way that best conveys our message of Jesus to them.

How do you become wise? There are at least six sources of this type of wisdom:

1) Prayer

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 you.”

2) Fear of the Lord

Prov. 9:10 - “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”

3) Bible

Col. 3:16 - “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom...”

4) Teaching

Col. 1:28 - “Him we preach, warning and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.”

5) Humility

Prov. 11:2 - “When pride comes then comes shame; but with the humble is wisdom.”

6) Discipline

Prov. 29:15 - “The rod and rebuke give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.”

2. Live Lovingly, Thoughtfully, and Compassionately

Everything changes in our lives when we surrender them to Jesus.

The world believes you live your life looking out for #1. Then if you have anything left over, you can do a little for other people if you like them and if they are really bad off. The life of a Christian is different from that. We don’t live for ourselves first. Our first priority is to surrender to God daily, then concern ourselves with others, before finally looking out for our own interests.

If there is ever any doubt then consider what Jesus calls the two most important commandments to live by in Matthew 22:

Vs. 37 - Love God // Vs. 39 - Love your neighbor as yourself.

So it should come as no suprise when Paul says “order your behavior toward those who are outside.”

“those who are outside” - outside the family of God. That is anyone without Jesus. This means we don’t do anything that would give them an unfavorable impression of the Gospel. We don’t do anything that would make it difficult to share the Gospel. We’ve got to constantly be living with this thought:

Is what I am about to do or say going to help or hinder someone in giving their life to Christ. I’m not so sure we always do that.

Years ago Jerry Vines was the pastor of FBC Jacksonville. In a sermon delivered at the 2002 SBC pastor’s conference he was denouncing Islam and called Muhamed “a demon-possessed pedophile.” Needless to say that made the headlines and stirred up Muslim fury around the world. It also got a rise out of the missionaries who pleaded for those back home to tone down the rhetoric. Why? It’s hard to witness to people that you are attacking and insulting. We don’t withold truth. We must share the Gospel and make it clear why Jesus is the only way, but that should be done in love and compassion rather than through a war of words.

Do homosexuals need the Gospel? Does that pregnant teenage girl who is contemplating abortion need the Gospel? Does that young man involved in drugs and gangs need the Gospel? The only way they will receive it is when our relationship to them is grounded in love, thoughtfullness, and compassion. Not judgment, condemnation, or rejection. As Christians its not our place to be superior because we are “in the family” or “right with God.” It is our place to be a beggar that tells another beggar where to find the bread.

3. Live Urgently

“redeeming the time” - sieze the opportunity that won’t always be available. There is an urgency in what we do.

We don’t have forever with lost people. Each Christian has a special opportunity for witnessing and should make the most of it while it lasts.

Illst - American Pickers - “The time to buy is when you see something.”

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.”

Some of the biggest regrets I have in life are not the bad things I did but the good things I didn’t do. Mainly the witnessing encounters that were right in front of me and I fumbled.

Transition: The best advertisment for the Gospel will be a life lived in Christ that the whole world sees. What believers are, gives credibility to what believers say.

II. The Way We Are To Talk (vs. 6)

“speech” - not referring to specifically preaching the Gospel or witnessing but to general conversations we have with those on the outside.

2 things to avoid in your speech:

Don’t talk like a lost person. (Murphy’s law: never argue with a fool, people might not be able to tell who the fool is. Make sure when you talk to a lost person people could tell who has Jesus!)

Don’t talk like an ivory tower religious person who has no concept of reality.

Paul tells us what our speech should be characterized by:

1. Grace

To be a lot nicer than someone might deserve. Places this might have some practical application: waiter @ restaraunt who messed up your order, umpire on ballfield that missed the call that costs your team the game, person that got the parking spot you were waiting on @ walmart, etc. Note the word in verse 6 - “ALWAYS”!

Remember: Don’t expect people who are on the outside to act like those on the inside. Those on the inside are never justified in acting / talking like those on the outside.

Remember #2: You aren’t representing you, you represent Jesus and His kingdom. It is more important for Him to be seen than for you to get your way.

2. Saltiness

Not in the sense that a sailor’s language is salty...

“seasoned with salt” means two things:

1) Purity

One thing salt was used for was to preserve food from corruption. Out of our mouth should come words that are healthy, build others up, and reflect the work of Jesus in our lives - not words that tear down or cause rot in our relationships.

2) Flavor

As you well know, when you put salt on something it adds flavor to it. There seems to be this thought here that the language of a Christian should be dull, dry, and boring. Have some life in you. After all we aren’t dead any longer. In Christ we are raised up alive not in the future but now. We’ve got a reason to be loud and fired up.

3. Knowledge

We should be ready to discuss our faith in Christ or discuss world events with a biblical worldview.

1 Peter 3:15 - “...always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you...”

We don’t have to have all the answers, but we can have enough to be a credible witness.

*****

How are you living in the eyes of the world?

(at your job, school, among your family, on Facebook, around your friends?)

If there is no difference between you and the world could it be there is no Jesus in your life?

Sermon 3-20-11

2011-03-20T21:08:00.002-04:00

“A PRAYING CHURCH IS A POWERFUL CHURCH” - part II

Colossians 4:3-4

In the previous verse Paul calls the church to be a praying church. We looked at the kind of prayer life we need to have (persistent, attentive, thankful). I told you that a praying church would be a powerful church. Today we will look at the kind of prayers we are to pray.

II. THE KIND OF PRAYERS WE ARE TO PRAY (vs. 3-4)

1. Specific People

“meanwhile pray also for us” - Paul asks the church to be praying specifically for him and his co-workers, probably the ones you find starting in verse 7.

This shows us that it is not wrong or selfish to ask people to pray for you. In fact you are being selfish if you don’t ask for it. You are not only neglecting yourself but robbing people of the opportunity to be blessed by doing something like this for you. It also shows us the need to pray specifically for people by name.

Many times our prayers go something like this: Lord, bless our missionaries, armed forces, congressmen, people of Japan (tsunami), etc. That’s not all bad, sometimes that’s all we can do. But our prayer life can be so much more effective and powerful when we are able to pray for specific people by name.

Benefits of praying for specific people by name:

- You will become more engaged and concerned for them which will lead you to pray with more perseverance, attentiveness, and thankfulness.

-You are more likely to know their specific needs which will enable you to pray more efficiently for them.

-You bless them and encourage them more than you realize. (Have you ever had somebody come up and tell you they’ve been praying for you? That’s humbling, it moves you. It blesses you.)

-You will actually know when God answers that prayer and you can then praise Him for it.

Let me put this in perspective:

I pray for my children as I suspect you do for yours [if you don’t, you picture is on the devil’s Hall of Fame in Hell!!!] With 5 kids it is real easy to just pray “Lord bless the kids today, watch over them, protect them, blah, blah, bhlah, amen.” It would certainly be quicker. But what if I took the time to lift each one up by name, and spent time praying for each one, the things I know they are struggling with, their needs, their futures, God’s call on their life, etc? Would that type of praying go farther and accomplish more than just a generic prayer? You know it would!

Luke 22:31-34 - “And the Lord said, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.” But he said to Him, “Lord, I am ready to go with You, both to prison and to death.”

Then He said, “I tell you, Peter, the rooster shall not crow this day before you will deny three times that you know Me.”

Jesus prayed for Peter and for the times of testing he was about to experience. That’s specific! Do you know how things turned out for Peter? He had some shaky moments but he survived and went on to accomplish great things in the early church. There is great value in praying for people specifically.

Now on the off chance that anyone here would argue with this concept, maybe saying something like, “who’s got the time to pray for all this stuff for someone?” I would just respond by saying, do you really want me to answer that! Get a copy of last week’s message.

So who are some of the specific people that ought to be on your personal prayer list?

-Spouse

-Kids

-Parents

-Anyone who as asked you

-Doug and Sue Ann

-Your Pastor

-Lost People

Ezekiel 22:30 - “So I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in ghe gap before Me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it; but I found no one.”

Lost people aren’t praying, someone needs to stand between them and God and pray specifically for them and their broken relationship with God. You ought to have at least three lost people you pray for regularly...

2. Specific Purposes

“God would open a door” - ‘door’ refers to an opportunity.

A. Opportunities to Share Jesus

Imagine all the things Paul could have requested prayer for...he is in jail right now. If he was going to pray for a door to open, wouldn’t you expect it to be the jail door!?!? What would you ask for? To be fair the early church engaged in prayer for Peter’s release from prison (Acts 12)...but Paul’s biggest prayer concern is that God would give him more opportunities to share about Jesus Christ. It was more important for Paul to be a faithful minister than a free man.

Phil. 1:12-14 - “But I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel, so that it has become evident to the whole palace guard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ; and most of the brethren in the Lord, having become confident by my chains, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.”

When we pray for our missionaries by name like Colosse would have done for Paul, we should ask specifically for God to open doors for them to share Jesus. But let’s make this a little more personal...We need to pray and ask God to give US opportunities to share Jesus. Here is why...

FACT: 90% of all Christians rarely if ever share their faith in Jesus with a lost person. For most it comes down to either you are afraid to do it, or just don’t think much about sharing. [I don’t condemn you b/c I too struggle with this.] This is where our praying can help us become more evangelistically minded. I find that I am much more likely to witness when I have been praying for opportunities. It puts it on your mind and burns it in your heart. We need to ask daily for God to open doors for us to share and be aware of the open door so that we don’t walk past without walking in!

Don’t hide behind your prayers. Here is what I mean by that statement - It is easy to pray, “Lord help this church to reach more people for you.” What you mean is “let the AWANA’s program lead kids to Christ, help the preacher to give a good evangelistic sermon where people get saved, let the missions team or visitation team lead people to Christ.” By all means pray for these groups to be successful, but don’t neglect to pray about God using you personally to share Jesus with others. In fact if you come to me and ask me to pray for somebody you know who isn’t saved I will - and I will pray that God gives you the opportunity to be the one to reach them!

B. Courage to Share Jesus

Verse 3 deals with the opportunity to share Jesus and verse 4 is now a prayer for the courage to do it when the opportunity presents itself.

Why would Paul need courage? The answer is back in verse 3. He is in jail for sharing the Gospel. But the very thing that got Paul arrested is the very thing he wanted God to help him continue to do. Paul is eventually going to stand before some very powerful people. Some will believe because of what he says, some will consider Christ, others will laugh at him, and some will become irrate to the point that he is finally killed for proclaiming Jesus. I’d say that takes a little courage.

Most of us will not lose our lives or even our jobs because we share Jesus with others. We may lose a friend or two along the way but regardless of who we share with there is always anxiety over how will they respond, what will they think of me?

There is nothing wrong with being scared, nervous, or anxious about sharing. It could conceivably cost you something. The answer is not don’t do it, the answer is ask God for the courage to do it.

*****

Here is the simple truth that is at stake today:

When we fail to pray for specifice evangelistic purposes we will fail in evangelism. And if we fail in evangelism what good is the church? We might can continue to minister to one another but eventually we die out and who is left? You can grow through transfers but if all we do is swap sheep around...well, sheep die too.

Here are some specific prayer requests for our church I want to ask you to pray for regularly...

100 people in worship (local)

To start a new church (somewhere its needed and likely culturally different from us)

Our mission efforts in **** (to the ends of the earth)

Now you may say I thought we were supposed to make a greater effort to pray for specific people and not just stop on general requests...I did and we are. This is where we connect this message to last week’s message. After you pray for those three things go back and pray the prayer I taught you last week-

“LORD, what do you want from me? Thank you that you will stand with me as I begin to do it.” In other words what is your involvment in these prayer requests? What is God calling you to do to help make them happen?

Sermon 3-13-11

2011-03-13T22:13:00.002-04:00

A PRAYING CHURCH IS A POWERFUL CHURCH

Colossians 4:2-4

A visitor at Charles Spurgeon’s Tabernacle in London was being shown around the building by the pastor, Spurgeon, himself. “Would you like to see the powerhouse of this ministry?” Spurgeon asked as he showed the man into a lower auditorium. “It is here that we get our power, for while I am preaching upstairs, hundreds of my people are in this room praying.” Is it any wonder why Charles Spurgeon is considered one of the great preachers and had one of the most dynamic ministries in recent Christian history?!?!

If you want to have a church that is growing, and truly making an impact in this world for God’s kingdom there is all kinds of advice out there on how to do it. Attend this conference, read that book, get mentored by a certain preacher / leader, analyze the demographics of your city, wear a certain style of clothes, play a specific type of music, etc. While all those may have some value I would still point to two things that bring power to the church: preaching the Word and prayer.

Acts 6:4 - “but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and ministry of the word.”

In today’s message we will focus on the prayer aspect of that statement. The New Testament shows us just how important and powerful prayer is to God’s people and their work for Him. In Jesus’ ministry we find Him often slipping away alone and spending large amounts of time in prayer (Mark 1:35), we find him admonishing his disciples that because they hadn’t spent time in prayer they were powerless in their ministry (Mark 9:29). In Acts we see the early church gathering frequently for prayer meetings in the face of persecution, when they needed wisdom in making decisions, and as they prepared to go out to witness. In Paul’s letters we find over and over just how much he prayed for these churches and encouraged them to be faithful in prayer. For a modern day example I would point you to the Brooklyn Tabernacle in NY...

I want to be honest with you today and tell you that this text and this message bother me. It challenges me to look into my own life and the life of our church and see how we line up with Paul’s words. When I do, I’m not sure I like what I see. After you hear this you may not either...

I. The Kind of Prayer Life We Are to Have (vs. 2)

In vs. 2 we see our prayer life can be powerful when it is characterized by three things...

1. Perseverance

NIV - devote, NKJV - “continue earnestly”, literally - it is an unrelenting persistence where you hold fast and refuse to let go.

Does that resemble your prayer life currently? It may not. Most Christians either pray occasionally when they feel like it or when troubles come, or they give up because they don’t see the answers coming. But Paul tells us don’t quit. Don’t ever stop praying or in some cases you need to start praying.

Do you know why? Prayer is a conversation with God in which He is always engaged. It’s not like a phone call where you may not get an answer or have to leave a message and wonder if He’ll get back to it. He always picks up and if you quit praying thinking He didn’t, then you need to pray longer or maybe just sit and listen.

What constitutes persistent praying? After all Paul told the Thessalonians to “pray without ceasing...” It doesn’t mean you walk around all day constantly vocalizing prayers out loud, but it does mean there is a constant fellowship with God so that prayer is as normal to us as breathing. It also means that on a daily basis you take time, stop what you are doing and spend time talking with God.

Jesus told a couple of parables that illustrate the importance of prayer...

Luke 18:1-8 - “Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart, saying: “There was in a certain city a judge who did not fear God nor regard man. Now there was a widow in that city; and she came to him, saying, ‘Get justice for me from my adversary.’ And he would not for a while; but afterward he said within himself, ‘Though I do not fear God nor regard man, yet because this widow troubles me I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.’” Then the Lord said, “Hear what the unjust judge said. 7 And shall God not avenge His own elect who cry out day and night to Him, though He bears long with them? I tell you that He will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?”

Luke 11:5-10 - “And He said to them, “Which of you shall have a friend, and go to him at midnight and say to him, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves; for a friend of mine has come to me on his journey, and I have nothing to set before him’; and he will answer from within and say, ‘Do not trouble me; the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give to you’? I say to you, though he will not rise and give to him because he is his friend, yet because of his persistence he will rise and give him as many as he needs. “So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.”

The point of these parable is that if unwilling and sinful humans will honor persistence, how much more will our holy, loving heavenly Father?

2. Attentiveness

NKJV - “being vigilant”, NIV - be watchful, others translate it - stay awake, be alert.

Paul’s thought here is much more than the obvious do not fall asleep praying. He means that believers should look out for those things that they ought to be praying about. Know what is happening around you and pray about it. As I have shared with you already, there were a lot of challenges facing the church in Colosse both from the inside and outside. Things are no different for us. Here are a few things to be aware of...

A. Temptation

Mark 14:38 - “Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak.”

Johnny Hunt advocates we pray, “Lord, keep me clean and close.”

We must realize that temptation lies around every corner. The devil will see to that. He loves to bring down churches, ministries, and families by getting godly people to bite on the temptations he offers.

B. Unity

John 17:20-21 - “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will^[a^] believe in Me through their word; 21 that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me.”

Paul would petition for this in his churches. We need to be aware of how important unity is and also be aware of how easily it can be threatened.

C. World Events

1 Tim. 2:1-4 - “Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.”

We should be aware of what is happening around the world and pray over those situations...Christians, missionaries are affected...pray over the affairs of our nation and certainly over our local governments. Policies by our town administration, school boards, and mayor can help / hinder our work.

D. God’s Call on Your Life

It was in a prayer meeting at the church in Antioch (Acts 13) where Paul and Barnabas felt called by God to leave the comfort of their home church and embark on the beginning of their career’s as missionaries. That doesn’t happen unless you are praying in search of God’s will for your life.

3. Thankfulness

This is a very elementary lesson. What’s the first thing as parents we teach our kids to do when someone gives them a gift? “Say thank you.” When kids or adults fail to express thanks to someone that has given them something what does that tell you about that person? Likely they are selfish.

Paul is like our parent in this letter because he tells us 5 times to be thankful to God.

2 thoughts on thankfulness:

Give thanks to God for answered prayers and blessings.

Give thanks to God before He ever answers your prayers.

Thank Him that He hears you...

Thank Him that He has the ability to answer your prayers...

Thank Him that He knows best how to answer your prayers...

Thank Him for all He has already provided...

Thank Him that He is present in your life...

Thank Him for all that He has already done, not the least of which is salvation...

When you reflect on the goodness of God you will find much to be thankful for. Two great benefits of thankfulness - it takes your mind away from the enormity of your problems and puts it on the enormity of your God who is more than able to handle your problems. It also takes you mind off the fear you face and puts it on the peace that comes from the presence of God.

A Word of Caution About Prayer:

I want you to know what you are getting into when you develop a deeper more powerful prayer life. It’s not always folded hands, quiet reflections, and peaceful conversation. In Several commentaries suggest the type of prayer life that Paul has in view here could best be understood as striving with God. Much like that of Jacob’s wrestling match with him in Gen. 32.

-Jacob’s whole life had been a struggle...

-Jacob was on the verge of a big moment that could go either way...

-Jacob wrestled with God all night...

-Jacob left with a limp...

-Jacob would not let go of God until He blessed him...

-Jacob’s life would not get easier yet it would take him down the path God had chosen...

This type of praying puts your life at stake. People who engaged God at this level often wound up in Roman jails, crucified, beheaded, burned at the stake, shipwrecked, put in lion’s dens, and worse. When you pray God may interrupt your plans, He may cost you some money, He may cause you to lose sleep at night over what He asks you to do. That is why you must be persistent, attentive, and thankful. You pray with until God blesses you with the boldness to get up and go forward with whatever He has called you to do.

When that happens the church has power, God’s Kingdom advances, and heaven rejoices.

*****

“LORD, what do you want from me? Thank you that you will stand with me as I begin to do it!”

Sunday Sermon for 2-27-11

2011-02-27T20:11:00.003-05:00

THE PREEMINENCE OF JESUS IN YOUR PARENTING

Part II - A Word to the Parents

Colossians 3:21

I. The Duty We Have

“Fathers” - the word used can mean parents (Heb. 11:23) but isn’t the same or more common word that you find in verse 20. That means that while this text should guide all parents, it is unmistakably directed at the fathers.

This goes back to what I mentioned a few weeks ago when we dealt with the “wives submit...” verse. God has ordained the man as the head of the home. I also told you that “Husband” is the most awesome title to ever be called and now I say “Dad” has to be second on that list.

The Bible tells us what the roles of godly parents are and keep in mind, dads, we’ve got to lead in this...

Deut. 6:6-9 - “And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.”

Prov. 22:6 - “Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.”

Eph. 6:4 - “And you, fathers...bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.”

God gave us a government to keep order in society, a school system to teach our kids to read and write, a church to make disciples for His kingdom, but He made parents to speak directly into a child’s life to raise them and train them to follow God through the path and gifts that He has uniquely shaped your child for.

And why do we do this? It all goes back to the Gospel which is literally “the good news.” You give your kids hope, a future, a foundation for real life when you impart to them the truths of God, His Son, His Spirit, His word, and the plans He has for their lives.

ENCOURAGING STATISTICS:

I recently heard the statistics that said when both Mom and Dad take their kids to church 76% of them become active in their faith. When Dad alone takes them it drops to 55%, Mom alone is 15%, and if neither parent goes to church with their kids only 9% become active Christians.

I also heard a myth busting statistic the other day. No doubt you have heard that the divorce rate among Christians is at least equal to that of non-Christians. Well, recent studies have shown that is false.

“Many people who seriously practice a traditional religious faith -- be it Christian or other -- have a divorce rate markedly lower than the general population.

The factor making the most difference is religious commitment and practice. Couples who regularly practice any combination of serious religious behaviors and attitudes -- attend church nearly every week, read their Bibles and spiritual materials regularly; pray privately and together; generally take their faith seriously, living not as perfect disciples, but serious disciples -- enjoy significantly lower divorce rates than mere church members, the general public and unbelievers.

Professor Bradley Wright, a sociologist at the University of Connecticut, explains from his analysis of people who identify as Christians but rarely attend church, that 60 percent of these have been divorced. Of those who attend church regularly, 38 percent have been divorced. THE TAKE-AWAY: The divorce rates of Christian believers are not identical to the general population -- not even close. Being a committed, faithful believer makes a measurable difference in marriage.” - Baptist Press, 2-15-11.

Why do I bring this up? Because which environment do you believe is most conducive to training up these kids in the right way? Which environment gives them the best foundation for success? A God-fearing home with a Mom and Dad who love each other or a broken home marked by a lack of concern for God and His word? You know the answer! This is the path God has called us to and we have the capacity to get this right.

II. The Detour We Can Take

It would be real easy to spend this message telling you about all that’s wrong in the world with parents and especially the deadbeat dads. But that’s not who Paul is speaking to. He is addressing the Dads that are in the church. That’s right, he is talking to you, me, the deacons, awana leaders, choir members, and those who are here because they sense they need Jesus in their lives. So listen up! What comes next shows us that it is possible to be a good Christian dad and yet take a detour along the way. A detour that takes us off the path God has for us.

This text is not so much about what we are to do as it is what we are not to do. And here is what we are to avoid: provoking our children. Now what does that mean?

Some translations use the words embitter, aggravate, exasperate, but the one that seems to best capture the meaning in a way we can understand is the ISV - “do not make your children resentful.”

“erethizo” - unreasonable exercise of authority that leads to resistance and resentment.

“Fathers are urged not to irritate their children by being so unreasonable in their demands that the children lose heart and come to think that it is useless trying to please their parents.” - FF Bruce.

Let me repeat the idea of the passage: this is a detour that every Christian dad can take if he isn’t careful. It can subtly happen without even realizing you got on the wrong road. Let me show you.

10 Ways to Make Your Kids Resent You (adopted/adapted from John MacArthur Colossians commentary)

1. Be Overprotective

The kids might call it suffocation. These parents never allow their kids to do anything. I see it in my life with small children when I constantly find myself saying ‘no.’ No to gum, ice cream, play outside, get on the computer, etc. There may be times that I need to say ‘no,’ but there are also plenty of times that I need to let my kids have things. This can build resentment and its something you need to be mindful of.

2. Show Favoritism

“Why don’t you make as good a grades as your brother does?”

“You don’t behave as well as that kid!”

Or here’s a real dangerous one: you spend more time working with the kids at the church than you do your own - and treat them better!

3. Do Not Respect

How do you show a lack of respect? Don’t listen to them. Let them feel like their opinions, problems, their desires don’t matter. The older your kids get the less likely they are to come to you and talk about what is happening in their life. If you ignore them or act like you don’t care when they do come to you, they likely won’t do it again.

4. Set Unrealistic Goals

Nothing they do is ever enough to meet your approval. We do this when we say their grades are never good enough, their sports skills are still not perfect, when their friends never meet your expectations even though they have worked hard and maybe even performed well or chosen wisely. A little praise and encouragement can go a long way.

5. Fail to Show Affection

Kids need verbal and physical affection. The older they get the physical might decrease but the verbal needs to increase. When’s the last time you told your kids you loved them, you were proud of them, or you said something really nice about them - to them! And don’t give me the old “well they know it already.” Maybe they do but they need to hear it too.

6. Do Not Provide for their Needs

You might not be the wealthiest person in the world but get them what they need and at least a few things they want. Yea you might have to do without something but you won’t miss it.

Two things I’ll always remember my Dad doing for me: buying me a baseball glove with his retirement check and wanting his truck sold to get my college education when he was dying.

As they get older - don’t do everything for them. Teach them the value of hard work and earning things because there comes a time when they must learn to provide for themselves and their family.

7. Don’t Have Standards

This is the flip side to overprotection. You just let them run wild and do what they want. They don’t want to pick up their toys, fine, I’ll do it, they want that new movie that is rated ‘R’, fine, I’ll buy it, they don’t want to get a job, fine, I’ll give them money...

Even though children will rebel and resist authority they really want it. When they don’t get it and they grow older they will wish their parents had set standards and held them accountable to them.

8. Constantly Criticize Them

Are you constantly on them about something? Hair, clothes, weight, the way they mow the grass or vacuum their room? There may be a time to confront but if you are always on them and constantly looking to point out their faults, you will embitter them. Guess what? Everyone has faults, some things you will need to tolerate and be patient with. Create a positive, structured environment where they can grow in the way they need to go.

9. Neglect Them

Parents must be involved in all areas of their kids lives. School, plays, ball games, and church are just a few. Surveys show that some parents - especially dads- spend as little as 30 seconds a day in meaningful time with their kids.

Ex- My parents weren’t involved much in my sports...That won’t be me. It better not be you.

Ex- My philosophy on church meetings...your kids will never be impressed by how many deacon meetings you attended, how many hours of OT you worked, or how much money you made. They will be impressed by seeing you in the audience at their performances!

“My father has never seen me play professional baseball or football...I tried to have a relationship with him, gave him my number, said, “Dad, call me. I’ll fly you in.” Can you imagine? I’m Bo Jackson, one of the so-called premier athletes in the country, and I’m sitting in the locker room and envying every one of my teammates whose dad would come in and talk with them after the game. I never experienced that.” - Bo Jackson, Sports Illustrated, 1995.

“When asked, ‘If you could, would you go back and do anything differently?’ Billy Graham responded, ‘Yes, of course. I'd spend more time at home with my family, and I'd study more and preach less. I wouldn't have taken so many speaking engagements, including some of the things I did over the years that I probably didn't really need to do—weddings and funerals and building dedications, things like that. Whenever I counsel someone who feels called to be an evangelist, I always urge them to guard their time and not feel like they have to do everything.’” - from Christianity Today Jan. 2011.

10. Discipline Excessively

Make sure the punishment fits the crime, don’t do it in anger, watch the words! Do it in love and ‘aim for the heart.’

It’s hard to raise kids the right way with all the influences of the world that pull on them, but it gets even harder if you are embittering them. These are just a few of the more common ways we can get our relationships with them off on a detour.

III. The Damage We Can Do

Embittering our kids can do more than damage our relationship with them. It can affect their lives personally.

“discouraged” - athymeo - lose heart.

You can take the life right out of your child and it is something that can stick with them as a teenager, young adult, even when they are late in life. Every once in a while I will encounter a senior adult who is just a ‘bitter ole soul.’ I wonder how they got that way. If you could peel back the layers I bet you would find a wound caused by a parent that never healed but only got more and more infected over the years.

When you do things that cause your kids to become discouraged you wound them and guess who’s there disguised as a caring doctor only he isn’t there to heal but to add salt into that wound? It’s the old devil! He will make that heart become more bitter and he’ll do his best to see that the child turns out just like his mom or dad that gave him the wound. That’s why some families just cycle the problems from generation to generation.

That’s why, dads, we’ve got to stop the cycle. With Christ as our Lord, preeminent in our lives we can. You let Christ come into your life and change your heart. He will change the way you treat others. When you stray it’s days like this that He will use His word to get your attention and help you get back to where you belong.

*****

*To the ‘good Christian dads’...Be on guard against this. It can come on so quick and easy. Take this to Jesus and your kids and ask how you are doing. Let Him guide you.

**To the dad who’s blown it...it’s never too late to start healing some wounds. A child’s desire for affection and approval from his father never goes away. In "Raising a Modern Day Knight" Robert Lewis outlines 3 practical steps to recovering this relationship. Something that is understood, is that this must be bathed in prayer and accompanied by God’s help...

1. Interview your child.

With humility meet with your child, share your heart including why you are doing this, and then ask them how you can be a better dad...what to do, what to stop doing, what you need...Listen, take it all in, and do not try to make excuses or justification for what you have done.

2. Confess

Confess your sin against them and ask for forgiveness.

3. Bless your child

Speak eyeball to eyeball, words of blessing to them. Tell them how much you love them, how special they are, how much they mean to you, how proud you are of them, and speak God’s favor over them.

I can’t promise how your child will respond. It may take time but you are laying the foundation for restoration and God will bless you and honor your efforts. You are trying to live with Jesus in mind and that is always a good thing.

***To the children today (5, 25, 55, 75) who are walking around with a wound, forgive your parents (this may require a visit or phone call) and you surrender your life to Jesus. Go forward today and let Him be your life. The more you serve Him and become like Him, the more you will find the wound healing. In Him you have something better than what that wound is taking away. Not the least of which is the fact that in Him you are approved, accepted, without fault.

Sunday Sermon for 2-20-11

2011-02-20T21:06:00.000-05:00

THE PREEMINENCE OF JESUS IN PARENTING

Part I - A Word to the Kids

Colossians 3:20

Kids say the darndest things...

-Family greeting pastor after church, junior says “my dad says mom is a pagan”...why?...”she serves up burnt offerings for supper”

-Kid was making faces at others in Sunday School...teacher who was sr. adult lady says “when I was your age I was told my face would freeze like that”...kid says “well you can’t say you weren’t warned.”

-Sunday school teacher was teaching her class about the difference between right and wrong...”If I got into a man’s pocket and took his wallet with his money w/o him knowing it what would I be?”...kid raised hand and said “you’d be his wife!”

Kids can also do the darndest things...

Minister walking down the street, sees kid trying to ring a door bell but can’t reach it...he stops to help, rings it for him, and says “what now?”...kid says “now we run!”

Well let’s look at what they should do...Col. 3:20...

“Children” - “Tekna” - often refers to small children but can also mean any living in the home under the instruction and authority of their parents. That means this directive would apply to small kids, teenagers, and essentially anyone living at home under their parent’s roof. The trend today especially among young adults is to finish school and stay at home or go to college then return home. In some cases it is precipitated by poor job market or other extenuating circumstances, and sometimes it is simply a failure to grow wings and fly. If you are a parent with an adult child at home then the rule should be simple: UNDER YOUR ROOF, UNDER YOUR AUTHORITY. Anything less is doing them a disservice. For the adult child, you should accept this or ... leave!

3 contextual observations....

1. God cares about our relationships to one another. If Jesus is in us, it should show in how we deal with one another...

2. Paul is addressing children in Christian homes. That is the direction this message will take although I will make some comments at the end about children in non-Christian homes. Children, I know there is always a natural tension that exists between you and your parents. Every child but one (Jesus) has had to deal with that. Most children at one time or another have thought “I have the worst, dumbest, unfairest, lamest, parents in the world!” But let me tell you something, if you were born into a Christian home and raised by godly parents - YOU ARE BLESSED!!! Whether you are 5, 15, 25, 55, 75 you ought to give thanks regularly to God for putting you there. There are lots that don’t have what you do.

3. Paul is speaking directly to the children. This letter would have been read aloud in a church worship gathering. That means the kids would have been present.

I. Jesus Wants You to Obey Your Parents

For kids a lot has changed over the years....games we played....how you got around...how you communicated....sports/equipment....but one thing hasn’t changed: Jesus still wants you to obey your parents...

“obey” - hupakoute - hypo is under, akouo is to hear, understand, and then do.

So that means you must accept that your parents have authority over you, when they speak you listen, and what they say, you do.

1. The Blessings of Obedience

Exodus 20:12 - “Honor your father and your mother that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you.”

Ephesians 6:3 - “that it may be well with you...”

Proverbs 3:1-2 - “My son do not forget my law, But let your heart keep my commands; for length of days and long life and peace they will add to you.”

Proverbs 1:8-9 - “My son hear the instruction of your father and do not forsake the law of your mother; for they will be a graceful ornament on your head.”

Kids, can you imagine how much more peace would be in your home if you would simply obey your parents instead of warring against them. If you cleaned your room when asked, did your homework, came home on time, wore the clothes they approved of, broke of that relationship they don’t approve of...

Here’s another thought...the more obedient you are the more trust you build with your parents. I’ve known some parents who have few rules and no curfews, because their kids have proven themselves to be responsible and they respect their parents enough to not abuse the leniency they are granted.

2. The Curse of Disobedience

Deut. 21:18-21 - “If someone has a stubborn and rebellious son who does not obey his father and mother and will not listen to them when they discipline him, his father and mother shall take hold of him and bring him to the elders at the gate of his town. They shall say to the elders, “This son of ours is stubborn and rebellious. He will not obey us. He is a glutton and a drunkard.” Then all the men of his town are to stone him to death. You must purge the evil from among you. All Israel will hear of it and be afraid.”

Proverbs 30:17 - “The eye that mocks his father and scorns his obedience to his mother, the ravens of the valley will pick it out, and the young eagles will eat it.”

This verse says there will be consequences to disobedience. Every adult in this place could testify to that today couldn’t you?!!?

Prov. 13:24 - “He who spares his rod hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him promptly.”

This verse says you can expect discipline or punishment when you don’t obey. Your parents aren’t doing you any favors if they don’t discipline. When they do, it is because they love you.

2 Tim. 3:1-4 - “But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.”

This verse says that disobedience is a characteristic of an ungodly person.

It does not get any more black and white, right or wrong in the Bible than the command found in this verse. God wants you to obey your parents. Doing so leads to a blessed life, not doing it will cause problems.

II. Jesus Gives Your Parents the Wisdom to Take Care of You

“in all things” - this is the scope of their authority over you and wisdom they have.

Two thoughts that may shock every teenager here:

1. “Your parents really do know what is best for your life!”

For kids this starts early and seems to really manifest itself by the teenage years - you think you know more than your folks. Hey, they’re old aren’t they? Old-fashioned, out of touch, don’t know what its like to live in your generation...they don’t know how to text, create a Facebook account, and think an iPad is something you sit on at a doctor’s office. How in the world can they possibly know what is best for your life here in 2011!?

Prov. 22:6 - “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”

“Train” - put something in the mouth, cultivate a taste - it is to teach them what they should yearn for

“child” - any age, under your roof, under your authority

“way” - speaks to a natural bent that God has uniquely created them for

This verse means God has made you for a special purpose and has given your parents the wisdom and ability to lead you toward it. They won’t know all that God has for you, but they know how to lead you to his trough to drink from Him.

Listen when they tell you don’t hang out with that group, don’t date that person, slow down, get a job, respect your elders, quit jumping on the couch, etc.

2. “Your parents are not trying to ruin your life!”

If they love Jesus then they love you. They want to see you do your best. They want to see you not make the mistakes and suffer like they did. (matt. 7:9-11)

Is it possible they will make a mistake? Not only possible but guaranteed!!! They are not perfect. If you will pray for them, humble yourself under them, and do your best to obey you may discover they are far closer to perfect than you originally thought.

III. Jesus is Happy When You Obey Your Parents

“well pleasing to the Lord” - Simple translation: Jesus is happy when his kids obey their parents.

This gets to the heart of the matter. Who are you most concerned with pleasing? Yourself or Jesus? This whole obedience thing is a spiritual issue. Kids that are growing in Jesus will strive to obey their parents. Those who don’t, won’t, and the cycle continues. If you don’t view Jesus as your authority, you won’t view your parents as authority, school teachers...bosses...police...and by then you have gone down a disastrous road.

Parents look at your kids whatever their age (5, 10, 15, 25) if they are not obeying you, it is a spiritual issue that is only going to grow worse. Their hope is Jesus.

Kids, teenagers, adult children, there is nothing more important in life than your relationship to Jesus. Nothing else will matter, nothing else will help if we don’t get this right first.

Some of you grew up / are growing up in non-Christian homes. Your hope is Christ. He can save you, He can break the cycle so that you don’t repeat it, He can heal your wounds, He can give you more than you ever missed.

Sermon 2-13-11

2011-02-13T20:57:00.002-05:00

THE PREEMINENCE OF JESUS IN YOUR MARRIAGE

Part II - A Word To The Husbands

Colossians 3:19

Paul’s day - marriages may be arranged or were essentially a business deal.

Our day - marriages often begin with a flurry of emotions/attractions/misconceptions

It does not matter how your marriage got started, what matters is where it goes. According to the word of God every husband will grow in one of two ways toward his wife. Men, as the hours tick away and the days go by you will either grow in love or in bitterness. One way is the way of Christ, the other is the way of the devil; one way displays the glory of God, the other displays the destruction of Satan, one way leads to a great legacy, the other to a life of shame, one way to a blessed life, the other to broken hearts. Either way is possible for you to go!

I. The Way To Go- The Way of Love

“Husband” - Of all the titles or names I can be known by, this is the one that means the most to me. It reminds me of a choice I made and a blessing I received. The choice was to unite myself to one and only one woman, spend the rest of my life exclusively with her, share life together, and take care of her until one of us can no longer live. The blessing I received was that there was a woman out there who felt the same way about me. Being a husband is a choice you make and a blessing you receive and it is ordained by God.

“love” - ‘agape’ - highly treasure or value something, lavish affection or attention upon it, and you are willing to sacrifice yourself for it

This is the type of love that Christ showed us when He left Heaven, came to earth, walked among us, taught us, healed us, and died for us. Since Paul declares we are to love our wives as Christ loved the church that means this is the type of love we must show our wives. Your relationship with your wife while dating and early in the marriage probably was not built completely on this type of love. It was built more upon attraction, excitement, lust (in a good way), companionship, etc. But if your marriage is going to go the distance your love will have to grow into an agape type of love. Let me show you how...(let me give you 5 words that describe agape love as it applies to our wives...)

1. Sacrifice

John 3:16 - “God so loved (agape) the world that He gave...”

It cost God something to love us. He had to give up heaven, glory, and worship to come and die for us. Guys, there are sacrifices you MUST make for your wives. You will have to give up yourself for the good of your wife. Now I know every man in here would willingly die to protect his wife, but few of us, if any, will ever be called to do that. What we will be called to do is die every day to our own desires, preferences, and opinions in order to love our wives sacrificially. It’s that kind of daily sacrifice that is hard for men to do.

A husband who loves his wife sacrificially will have to give up:

-some of his time with his friends (didn’t say give up friends although...)

-some of your overtime and money (she’s appreciative, but she’d rather have you)

-your independence (you are one now / she needs/has the right to know your plans...)

-wants and desires (movies, eating out, purchases/ compromise but scales need to tip in her favor.)

BUT....... you must do this willingly, cheerfully, and see it as an act of love. If you do these things but are mad about it or act like your being put in front of a firing squad, it isn’t love, rather it will become bitterness. More on that later. Love is a matter of the will. I will/want to do this for her.

2. Sanctify

Eph. 5:26-27 - “that He might sanctify and cleanse her...that she should be holy and without blemish.”

Agape love means you lead your wife to be more like Christ - not drive them to Him because you are so awful!! :)

Ask these questions:

-After all these years is my wife more like Jesus than the day I met her?

-What have I done to contribute to this? (positive/negative)

-What will you do from this day forward? (You take the lead in coming to church / you be seen growing in Christ through personal devotion, worship / you put off anything from the old you / let her see Jesus working in your life)

“If it weren’t for the women this church wouldn’t be here / if it weren’t for my wife my kids wouldn’t know Jesus” - While that may be a compliment to the women it is a sad indictment on the men! God put the leadership roles of the family and church upon us. Yes, the women are important and we can’t do it without them, but when the men are absent as spiritual leaders God’s created order descends into disorder.

If you haven’t been doing this, then I have good news for you: There’s never been a better time to start than today. How? Go to Jesus first. Are you saved? Ask Him for help. Then talk to your wife, confess your shortcomings in this area, tell her you want to become the spiritual leader, get her to pray for you, then find a trusted Christian man and get him to help you. You can do this!

3. Satisfy

Eph. 5:28-29 - “So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh but nourishes and cherishes it...”

When you are hungry or thirsty you eat and drink, when you are tired you go to bed, when you are sick you take medicine to get well. You satisfy the needs of your body. This is what we are to do for our wives.

I read that the secret to a happy marriage is to quit trying to be happy and start trying to make your wife happy. Because you know IF MOMMA AIN’T HAPPY, NOBODY IS HAPPY!!! Or my favorite - YOU CAN BE RIGHT OR BE HAPPY...I CHOOSE HAPPY!

Love always satisfies the needs of your wife. Therefore love will never harm or take away what your wife needs. One of the main ways we harm our wives is by our words. Guys, lets make the effort right now to knock off the negative comments and jokes. If you do anything you put yourself down but don’t dare do it to your wife and double dog don’t dare do it in public. You satisfy her by building her up, saying nice things about her, to her, in front of her, and about her in public. Even if she isn’t the best wife in the world you better make everyone believe she is - and she should believe you believe it!

4. Supreme

We know Jesus is to be your first love, but among all other people on earth your wife should be next on the list. Not your Momma, your kids, your ball team, or your boat.

Eph. 5:31 - “For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the tow shall become one flesh.”

For men there are 2 Danger Zones to be aware of in this area:

Momma’s - some of us haven’t “leaved / cleaved”

Other women - don’t let another woman get closer than your wife, not even close period! Ask her and she will tell you if she believes one has...

5. Steadfast

Love her to the end.

1 Corinthians 13:7-8 - “(love) bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails...”

In marriage there will be hard times, trials, droughts, arguments, failures, etc. But that doesn’t mean you quit. In fact you made some vows that promised you wouldn’t. Your vows summed up what this agape love is all about.

“I, take thee… to be my wedded wife…to have and to hold, from this day forward… for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer… in sickness and in health… to love and to cherish… I pledge to you my faithfulness… till death do us part.”

A vow is a serious thing (Eccl. 5:4-5). If you don’t think you will keep it then just have the integrity to include a clause that offers you a way out other than death!

A wife will have a lot less difficulty submitting to a husband who loves her. If you don’t grow in love there is another way in which you will grow. It is ...

II. The Way to Avoid - The Way of Bitterness

“bitter” - is a word that can be used to speak of malignancy or poison but is best defined as a bad taste in your mouth.

“You can’t call your wife honey and act like vinegar toward her.” - John MacArthur

Beginning

James 4:14-15 - “But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic.”

Heb. 12:15 - “looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble...”

Bitterness comes from the devil and pops up when someone falls short. So here is what happens, your wife doesn’t do what you think she should do. Rather than giving grace you hold it against her. The devil convinces you that you are justified because of what she did/didn’t do. Then it doesn’t take long before he has slipped some poison in your marriage and everything becomes contaminated.

Ending

Heb. 12:15b - “and by this many become defiled.”

That ending may be divorce, may be violence, or it may just be a lifetime of misery.

However it ends, it is tragic, destructive, out of the will of God, unnecessary yet entirely possible. Any of us can go there. Some of you already are.

*****

I want to close by giving you 3 practical challenges that will prevent you from going down the road to bitterness or help you out if you’re there:

1. Take the “d” word off the table. When two people love and trust Jesus there is nothing He can’t solve.

2. Take you and the marriage to Jesus. Pray, and let Him change you. You can’t change her.

3. Get your priorities right. Live to please Jesus first, her second, and you last.

Illst- Adam and Eve from “Man of God” by Jack Graham pg. 117.

We have been given the deal of a lifetime!

Prov. 18:22 - “He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the LORD.”

1 Peter 3:7 - “Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered.”

We better take care of them!

Sunday Sermon for 2-6-11

2011-02-07T08:08:00.000-05:00

THE PREEMINENCE OF JESUS IN YOUR MARRIAGE
Part I - A Word to the Wives
Colossians 3:18

Who has the authority and final say on marriage and all issues pertaining to it? Jesus - His Word. Marriage is tough and it takes work, but it can be GREAT. To be great, every marriage that has ever existed needs help. You can find help in a lot of places, Dr. Phil, books, conferences, counselors, etc. The best help and the foundation for which all instruction must be laid on is Jesus and His word, and yet for some reason many of us tend to get uneasy when scriptures dealing with marriage are taught on, especially like the ones found in this section.

Why did Paul begin this section by addressing the wives first? No commentary I found can adequately explain this so I did an informal survey of all the men in this church asking them why they thought Paul started with the wives, and all but one man (me :) ) concluded it’s because the women need to hear this the most! :) (or maybe its just they are the only ones who will actually listen...)

We don’t know for sure but here is what you can observe by looking at this text. This paragraph is divided into three sections with each section addressing two distinct people (wives, husbands / kids, fathers / slaves, masters). In each section Paul appeals 1st to the one who is going to come under the authority of the other and is most likely to be mistreated - wives, kids, slaves. After all, our symbol of identity is still the cross...

You can’t really understand this verse unless you understand it in the context of marriage. So let’s start from the beginning.

I. Why the “submission” verse is important...

The institution of marriage was formed by God and the details recorded in Genesis 1-3.

1. God created man and woman in His image.

That made them equal as persons before God yet distinct in their manhood and womanhood.

2. God brought them together in marriage and ordained distinct roles for the man and woman as a part of His created order.

Man was given the responsibility of being the head or leader. The Latin term that has been used is ‘paterfamilias.’ It means the man who is husband, father, and master of the home.

The Hebrew term for the woman’s job description in Gen. 2:18 was ‘ezer’ (azer) which has been called “helpmeet” or helper. She was to come to the aid and assist her husband. That was God’s plan, pre-sin, and it was good, exceedingly good.

3. The Fall introduced distortions and disruptions into the marriage relationship.

Genesis 2:16 - “Your desire shall be for your husband, and he shall rule over you.”

Because of sin men became lords or lazies instead of lovers or leaders and the women wanted to highjackers instead of helpers. This makes marriage become hard and it makes verses like this cause us some uneasiness. But it reveals the two biggest problems in marriage today:

1. Wives who won’t submit
2. Husbands who won’t love

Many experts will say no. The biggest problems are a lack of communication, money issues, or a failure to spend quality time with one another. Now I agree all those things can be problems but they are the symptoms of two bigger ones. Nowhere does the Bible mention that couples need to communicate better, agree more on money, or spend more time together but it consistently speaks to these two issues over and over - wives submit, husbands love. Get these two issues right and we will put marriage counselors out of business.

This verse then is important because it restores order to the disorder sin creates in our marriage. So why is this verse a problem for us if it holds the solution?

II. Why the “submission” verse is a problem...

Our problem with this verse comes from 3 areas...

B/c our natural tendency is to drift away from God’s ideal plan.

We see this is virtually every area of our life. God wants us to study His word and come regularly to worship Him with the church and yet we allow other things to competer for our time and cause us to struggle to consistently do those things, we take actions designed for the marital relationship and we commit them outside of marriage b/c we think we know best, we know God expects us to be generous givers and yet there are times that we resent writing out that tithe check or just don’t do it at all. Our sinful nature does that to us so it should be no surprise that it causes women to have trouble with submission.

2. B/c you put the focus on the husband and what he’s doing instead of you.

“I can’t submit to him, do you know where that would lead us?! He’s failed, he’s lazy, he doesn’t love me anyway...” Now let me help you a little bit here - when you are reading your Bible or sitting under someone teaching it and you begin to apply it to someone else (I wish so - n - so were here to hear this / read this) you have missed the point.

GREAT BIBLE STUDY PRINCIPLE: When you read or get taught, what you are getting is the voice of God speaking the will of God DIRECTLY TO YOU! Not anyone else, YOU! This verse is about you not him. You will never get it, be comfortable with it, or help your marriage unless you quit worrying about him and start focusing on you and what you must do.

B/c you misunderstand what it means to submit.

For some people this verse conjures up images of radical Muslim theology: (no rights)

-Barely seen, never heard, no opinion, and considered property

For some it is seen as a far right wing fundamentalist doctrine: (slave)

-Dress homely, take care of kids, buy groceries, have a hot meal on stove, bring him a paper and slippers, and be his play toy

For some it is akin to martyrdom:

-Let him abuse me, neglect me, mistreat me, and ruin my life

But that’s not it. Submission is not inferiority, not absolute obedience, and it isn’t surrendering to a dictatorship. Let me show you what it means...

III. What the “submission” verse means...

“submit” - ‘hupotasso’ - military vocabulary which means to arrange in rank or put yourself under. In the military just because you have a rank it doesn’t mean you are a better person than someone under you, it just means you have a different position of responsibility. In marriage it certainly doesn’t mean one is better than the other, just that man has the responsibility of headship.

The tense this verb occurs in also suggests this is something you do willingly or voluntarily. Guys, regardless of whether our intentions are good or bad we can’t demand this. Wives, you must be willing to let your husband be the head of the family.

Here is what this looks like, A Submissive Wife...

... Seeks to live at peace with her husband
... Is more loyal to her husband than anyone else - INCLUDING HER KIDS/PARENTS!
... Lets her husband be the final decision maker (give her opinion, he should consider)
... Stays within the limits of the family budget
... Respects her husband (listens to him, doesn’t put him down, builds him up)
... Goes along with her husband’s wishes provided he doesn’t force her to sin
... She allows him to fail and then helps him back up w/o criticizing him
... She seeks God daily and trusts Him to bless her obedience

(taken and modified from Martha Peace, “The Excellent Wife” pgs. 151-153)

This means that because of the Gospel biblical submission has taken the burden of the wife and put it on the husband. God has raised the standard of living for the man and told him he better take care of his wife. He is accountable for displaying a loving relationship that encourages her to submit to him.

IV. How you are able to “submit”...

Let’s be honest, for some of you this may be hard to do because either your husband is truly not worth submitting to or you have been designed by God with a personality that likes to be in control.

“fitting in the Lord” - This means that submission to your husband is God’s plan. He designed marriage to function this way. Therefore, you must put a greater trust in Jesus than you do in yourself or your husband. You won’t submit to your husband until you first submit to Jesus.

Trust Him enough that if you take steps to obey His teaching then He will give you the grace you need to do it. Grace can be defined as God giving you the ability to do what you can’t do on your own.

This all goes back to what we have learned in Chapter 3 so far:

“set your mind on things above” (vs. 2)
“you died to yourself” (vs. 3)
“your life is hidden with Christ” (vs. 3)
“put on (virtues that enable you to endure situations that aren’t always favorable)” (vs. 12-14)
“peace of God” (vs. 15)
“word of Christ dwell in you” (vs. 16)
“do all in the name of the Lord Jesus” (vs. 17)

Anything God calls you to do, it is the right thing to do, there’s a good reason for doing it, and He will give you what you need to do it. If you aren’t submitting, you can’t expect Him to bless your marriage.

In closing let me address 3 groups of women here today:

1. If you are married to someone that is hard to submit to (maybe unsaved)...

Serve him like Jesus would! (1 Peter 3:1-2)

2. If you are married to someone that is good Christian man...

Much of this discussion always seem to imply your man isn’t worth submitting to, but some of you have a good one. Thank God everyday for him, and treat him in such a way that he would be the stupidest person who ever lived if he were to go looking for another woman!

3. If you are single and have no husband in your life...

-Only consider dating and marrying a believer (one who will make you more like Jesus!)
-Find an older godly couple who get this right, and learn from them
-Decide right now that you will trust God’s word, accept His assigned role for you, and you will pursue it when the opportunity comes.

Where You Can Find Me...

2010-02-18T23:28:00.002-05:00

www.twitter/woottos

www.facebook.com [Jamie Wootten]

Check out my useless ramblings there. Much shorter and more frequently updated. Blogging seems to be going the way of the dinosaur so I don't expect to post much around here anymore. Thanks for stopping by.

My Favorite Christmas Song

2009-12-21T14:25:00.001-05:00

So How Did I Do?

2009-12-17T11:22:00.002-05:00

In September I gave my preseason football predictions for the SEC. Below is what I wrote and in [bold italics] is my comments on how I did with each prediction.

#1 - Florida

Got to start them here, but trying to repeat...impossible. They will slip up somewhere, somehow.

[Unfortunately they did in their final game against Alabama. The SEC is just too tough to be able to repeat.]

#2 - Alabama

If new QB gets it going this could be their year.

[He did and they did! McElroy looked more like a national championship/ heisman QB in the SEC title game than Tebow.]

#3- LSU

Same as above. If QB's don't lose games for them look for big things.

[They were up and down but somehow survived a coaching blunder and finished with SEC's best non-BCS bowl]

#4- Georgia

Tough non-conference schedule +losing talent, but still think Coach Richt pulls some miracles out of his hat. Plus they don't bear the weight of preseason #1 this year.

[They were definitely a middle of the road team and their defense did them no favors.]

#5 - South Carolina

Either this is the year they make their move or its Spurrier's last cockle-doodle-do.

[Big wins against Ole Miss and Clemson combined with solid young talent gave Gamecocks a decent season and hope for Spurrier to have big year next year.]

#6 - Ole Miss

Expectations are super high. I smell a choke coming on.....I hope a choke is coming on:)

[Gleefully nailed this one! Can you say Jevon cough, cough, cough, agghhhh, Snead?]

#7 - Tennessee

Has there ever been a first year coach as much on the hot seat as Kiffin?

[This seems like an appropriate pick. They weren't great but weren't bad. Kiffin delivers a suitable response in his first year.]

#8 - Arkansas

This may be the sleeper team of the league. Could be in the championship mix at the end if the big boys falter.

[Ryan Mallet made this a dangerous team. They were one or two upsets (see Florida game) from being on the big stage.]

#9 - Vanderbilt

Good talent returns from bowl season.

[I missed this one. Worst team in SEC by far this season. Can you say take 5 steps backwards?]

#10 - Mississippi State

Figure out this spread and we may win a few. Brutal schedule could put them in cellar even if they play decent.

[Actually finished 11th in league but played much better this year in spite of most difficult schedule in nation. Won a few and were close in several others.]

#11 - Auburn

Long way up for the 2nd best school in Alabama

[Played much better than I thought. Nearly upset Bama.]

#12 - Kentucky

Reality sets in.

[Again Rich Brooks gets more miles out of these guys than we credit him for. Not a great team but they continue to find ways to stay out of the basement reserved for Vandy.]

Predictions:

SEC Champs: Alabama over Florida

[Yes, I called it in preseason!]

BCS Champs: Oklahoma over Alabama (if I'm wrong, still think it will be Big 12 vs. SEC)

[Okay who could have forseen Sam Bradford's injuries and Oklahoma's subsequent collapse? Nevertheless I called it close Bama and Big 12 team (texas). And I still believe Bama can lose this game.]

SEC Bowl Teams: Alabama, Florida, GA, LSU, SC, TN, Ole Miss, Arkansas

[Got em. Left out Kentucky, and Vandy]

Mississippi State record: 5-7

[Actual record: 5-7. Yea baby!]

Colonel Reb is Cryin

2009-11-30T07:49:00.001-05:00

In light of this weekend's Egg Bowl beatdown I thought this blast from the past was appropriate.

Obama's Losing His Mind

2009-09-27T20:53:00.002-04:00

I'm not into all the "conspiracy" theories being espoused about the Pres, but this is idiotic and some of views of his toadies are down right scary.

Must read link!

Two Sets of Jones'

2009-09-15T10:29:00.001-04:00

Hey you married folks, check this out. This 4 minute video may be better than any marriage book you read or sermon you listen to. Take a few minutes to watch. You won't be sorry.

Obama's School Speech

2009-09-08T07:56:00.002-04:00

I had planned to write an opinion about Obama's speech today to public school students around the country but yesterday I read Al Mohler's piece about it and decided I couldn't say it any better. So I simply refer you to his blog today.

Cliff Notes: In case you don't want to read it and just want the main point: I read the text to the speech and have no problem with it. In fact I would wholeheartedly endorse it and believe it could be very helpful.

Weird!

2009-09-06T00:01:00.000-04:00

continued reflections on our trip to Mississippi for a family wedding...

Here are a few random things that I found weird. Not good or bad just weird...

1. Driving through Atlanta on I-20 at 1AM Friday morning and I was literally the only car to be seen on the 6 lane highway.

2. The look I got from the gas station attendant at 4Am when I stopped for gas/coffee.

3. How I felt when I got out of car at Jackson Rest Area at 6AM and couldn't walk straight after driving all night.

4. Going to sister in laws wedding in Natchez MS and staying less than 2 miles from the B & B where Amanda and I spent our wedding night together almost 12 years ago.

5. Being able to travel from Starkville to Brooksville in 15 minutes when it used to take 30-40.

It's Back!!!!!!

2009-09-05T14:02:00.001-04:00

Back by popular demand, the Dawg Pound Rock returns to the field this year. Hopefully we'll have a few reasons to do it.

Racism and the Cross

2009-09-04T00:01:00.000-04:00

Continued reflections on our trip back to Mississippi last weekend for a wedding....

So here's the situation, the family wedding was to be held at a gazebo in Natchez Mississippi overlooking the MS River. When it came time for rehearsals on Friday night another large group was already there rehearsing for their wedding which they had planned for the exact same time on Saturday as ours. Uh-oh! Both parties thought they had "secured" the free location by going through proper channels within the city only to find out that the city does not reserve the gazebo and it is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Well after some "discussion" an apparent compromise was reached and our wedding would be held immediately following theirs on Saturday night. But did I mention that the other wedding party was African-American? Double Uh-oh!!

I could understand the frustration some had with things not going according to plan. If blame is to be assigned it surely rested on the town for their policy or lack thereof in reserving the facility. But what burdened me the most were several comments I overheard from SOME - not all, not most, just some - of my family members describing the people of the other party in, well,.....less than flattering ways if you get my point....It was almost as if we should have been given priority based on the color of our skin and they be made to take a back seat. Wow, its not 1869 anymore folks! Heck its not even 1969. Let's move on. They had just as much right to conduct a wedding there as we did. Get mad at the city, feel like you got the short end of the compromise, that's fine, but leave out the racist remarks and attitudes.

We have come a long way in the South, but I'm afraid we have a long way still to go. I believe with the death of one or two more generations this problem will continue to improve, but it shouldn't take that. All one has to do is come face to face with the saving grace of Jesus Christ and you will instantly learn two things: 1- I'm no better than anyone else, and 2 - Other people have just as much access to the cross as I do. Galatians 3:28 still means something. Always has, always will. Heaven won't be a segregated place. I look forward to worshipping God elbow to elbow with people from "every tribe, tongue, and nation." And if it is like that in heaven, shouldn't we start getting ready for it on earth? And for the record, I grew up in MS and yes I was raised with the same racial prejudices I just spoke of and believed them for a long time. But something happened one day. That something was the unconditional love Jesus had for me irregardless of the color of my skin. He changed everything at the cross!

SEC Power Rankings (Preseason)

2009-09-02T22:17:00.002-04:00

Can you believe football starts tomorrow?! Yes! So here is my preseason ranks and predictions. I'm sure they're worth something....

#1 - Florida

Got to start them here, but trying to repeat...impossible. They will slip up somewhere, somehow.

#2 - Alabama

If new QB gets it going this could be their year.

#3- LSU

Same as above. If QB's don't lose games for them look for big things.

#4- Georgia

Tough non-conference schedule +losing talent, but still think Coach Richt pulls some miracles out of his hat. Plus they don't bear the weight of preseason #1 this year.

#5 - South Carolina

Either this is the year they make their move or its Spurrier's last cockle-doodle-do.

#6 - Ole Miss

Expectations are super high. I smell a choke coming on.....I hope a choke is coming on:)

#7 - Tennessee

Has there ever been a first year coach as much on the hot seat as Kiffin?

#8 - Arkansas

This may be the sleeper team of the league. Could be in the championship mix at the end if the big boys falter.

#9 - Vanderbilt

Good talent returns from bowl season.

#10 - Mississippi State

Figure out this spread and we may win a few. Brutal schedule could put them in cellar even if they play decent.

#11 - Auburn

Long way up for the 2nd best school in Alabama

#12 - Kentucky

Reality sets in.

Predictions:

SEC Champs: Alabama over Florida

BCS Champs: Oklahoma over Alabama (if I'm wrong, still think it will be Big 12 vs. SEC)

SEC Bowl Teams: Alabama, Florida, GA, LSU, SC, TN, Ole Miss, Arkansas

Mississippi State record: 5-7

So we'll see.........

Hometown Heartache

2009-09-02T00:01:00.000-04:00

Just got back from a whirlwind trip for a wedding back in Mississippi. Had some reflections I needed to air out from our weekend adventures. Hope to share them periodically on the blog this week...

Driving home Sunday we detoured and went through my old stomping grounds in Mississippi. We had all the kids and I figured this may be my one chance to show them where I grew up and give them a picture into their Dad's upbringing. It was cool to take them down my old dirt road and past the house I grew up in. For 20 years I was a superstar ball player of all sports, champion BMX dirt biker, and President of the world in that yard. It was neat to tell them those stories.

We also went to the cemeteries where my parents are buried. It was humbling to be able to tell them the reason for the Army Air Corps patch engraved into my Dad's marker as well as recalling the folding of the flag from his coffin and watching it be handed to my mother. As I told them the stories I stood in the exact spot I sat in that day as a 15 year old boy. Those vivid memories never seem to die and maybe that's a good thing. There is a season...... As I returned with my family to visit his grave I could only hope he would be proud to see us now.

Well, it gets worse......we went next to the cemetery where my mother has been buried now for 10 years. Again we were standing around the marker letting the kids read it when my wife realized that it was my mother's birthday that very day. "Lump" cannot describe what I felt in my stomach and throat. I lost it and still haven't totally recomposed. Two of my girls went back to the car and got their flowers from the wedding and we stuck them in the ground next to her marker. Could there have been any better way to celebrate her birthday than by bringing her 5 grandchildren she never got to meet to her grave? I find myself thanking God for bringing that together and allowing us to realize the magnitude of that moment. Even in your pain and grief He is always good!

It's Here. Let the Games Begin!!!

2009-08-31T16:13:00.001-04:00

Sunday at WHBC

2009-08-20T11:47:00.003-04:00

Sunday AM sermon: "How To Let The Bible Speak To You" (Acts 17:10-15)

Sunday PM sermon: "God Wants A Relationship With You - Part I" (Exodus 19)

Wednesday series: "The Problem With Religion" (Matt. 23)

God of This City...Williston Style

2009-08-17T08:19:00.001-04:00

Sermon Series at Winfield Heights

2009-08-13T11:37:00.002-04:00

Sunday 11AM- The Book of Acts (This Sunday: Impacting Your City, Acts 17:1-9)

Sunday 7PM - The Book of Exodus (This Sunday: A Potentially Big Problem, Ex. 18.)

Wednesday 6:30PM - The Problem With Religion - Matthew 23 (Starts 8/19)

The Day That Was (I'm still alive edition...)

2009-07-06T08:05:00.002-04:00

*AMAZING DAY at WH yesterday!

*Hosted a group from World Changers. Believe God is going to do some awesome things with this group this week in Barnwell County.

*We got some folks that really enjoy serving them while they're here and that is cool!

*Also commissioned our East Asia Mission Team yesterday. (That is always exciting yet so hard. Tears flowed.)

*Our study through the Book of Acts has been speaking loud and clear. Being a follower of Jesus means your life is no longer your own. We've got to go wherever He leads us.

*Had one of our largest attendances of the year. Yet we had more visitors than members :)

*Music time of our worship was very moving. Love hearing a room full of people sing Shout to the Lord and Mighty to Save!

*VBS kicked off last night and again could not believe the number of kids that came out of nowhere on a holiday weekend. Had a blast and enjoyed the popsicles too!

*This week is officially going to be insane. Our team leaves Saturday and there is much to accomplish between now and them. Would appreciate any and all prayers. Will do a "Prayer list" post later on in the week.

What's on Your Nightstand?

2009-06-04T00:01:00.000-04:00

Here are some good books I've read lately in no particular order....

#1 - What He Must Be if He Wants To Marry My Daughter by Voddie Baucham.

Solid book on the role Dads MUST play in helping their daughters find suitable mates and how to raise your sons to be that kind of mate. Every Dad should be required to read this book the moment he finds out his wife is pregnant! Oh, and if you think what Voddie writes is not feasible or wouldn't work then don't be surprised at the mess our families are in.

#2 - True Blue: A Tribute to Mike Krzyzewski's Career at Duke by various writers and editors.

This was a compilation of stories written by his former players, assistant coaches and many others in the basketball business as a tribute to the life of this man. One could only hope that he lives his life in such a way that he influences that many people in a positive way. A great challenge for all of us!

#3 - Do the Right Thing by Mike Huckabee.

His failed presidential bid is living proof this nation cannot handle common sense. He may be the only potential candidate in the next 20 years I could get excited about.

#4 - A Bold Fresh Piece of Humanity by Bill O'Reilly.

Demonstrates that ANYONE in this nation who desires to work hard, be a responsible citizen, and make the most of his life can find success. Don't expect people to do things for you, don't count on the government, and don't let your upbringing be an excuse.

#5 - Leading on Empty by Wayne Cordeiro

Recognizing, overcoming, recovering, or hopefully avoiding burnout. This is a must read for any leader especially pastors who feel the weight of the never ending cycle of ministry. This book will likely save someone's marriage, ministry, and life.

#6 - How to Think Big and Kick A%$ by Donald Trump.

Get over the offensive tone of the title and read the book. Trump nails some great vision and leadership principles and has no clue that the reason they are dead on is because they are straight out of the Bible. Warning: he does offer a few ideas that will clash with Christianity but the discerning reader will get much from this book.

#7 - Raising a Modern Day Knight by Robert Lewis

So good I had to preach a sermon series about his 4 fold definition of what a man is. A definition derived straight from the creation account in Genesis. Another book every Dad should read and teach to his son.

LIsten Up

2009-05-26T21:49:00.002-04:00

If you are a Southern Baptist pastor or denominational "leader" and care about missions then you should stop what you are doing and read this right now.

This is a crying shame. Let me be the first to say the answer to our problems is not that churches need to give more to the CP, the answer is not that we need a Great Commission Resurgence (although we may), but the answer is exactly what Trustee Chitwood said, reallocate current money. Folks there is enough money in the system! Let me repeat that, there is enough money in the Southern Baptist system. It's just that MUCH of it is being wasted on what Danny Akin RIGHTLY called "bloated bureaucracies.

Folks when the day comes that we have to tell God-called missionary candidates they cannot go to the field because the money isn't there, we have truly become a Golden Cow that needs to be slaughtered. Let me propose a few ideas to help the situation starting here in South Carolina:

- Reduce the amount of CP funds state conventions keep down to no more than 25%. Yes I know that would mean many layoffs, but a large number of these employees came from the ranks of pastors and given the increasing number of vacant pulpits in SC they would have no trouble finding work.

-Sell off the TajMahal, I mean the state building. Yes it is nice, it is beautiful, and it is ridiculous. What comes out of that building makes zero impact in my community and most others around here. But take that money, send it overseas with some of our finest true missionaries and the Kingdom work multiplies extensively.

-Quit wasting time with outdated annual meetings that serve no purpose but to meet old friends, exchange resumes, book revivals, and politic. The attendance is dwindling to nothing and few under age 50 attend. Wonder why? It's a waste of money!

-And here's one for the IMB...you really don't need a bagillion trustees. Slim down the number, reduce your trustee meetings, and you will in a gesture of good will, lead the way in making necessary adjustments.

Okay I realize these thoughts will not be popular with those who make their living off the convention, and it's likely they will never happen anytime soon. But I do believe if our convention leadership does not voluntarily take these actions, one day they will be forced to as the money dries up at every level and even worse, God removes His hand from a convention that chose to serve man rather than Him.

A Few Things I Take For Granted Way Too Much

2009-05-26T00:01:00.000-04:00

#1 - The Grace of God.

He owes me nothing, and should have left me to die, yet He didn't. God chose to save me.

#2 - My Health.

I am a very healthy person and rarely have any problems especially major ones. I am so blessed and yet find myself rarely thanking God for it.

#3 - My Family.

Our family is really very healthy, very loving, and I wouldn't trade my life for anyone else's. It could have turned out so differently so quickly. I know far too many that made or two mistakes and totally messed theirs up, or experienced an unexpected tragedy that rocked their world.

#4 - My Church.

We have a good thing going at WHBC. God has truly been working in our midst and what we have here is not what everyone gets to experience. I am never thankful enough for the place and the people God has called me too.

One of my desires as I grow in my private prayer times is become more thankful to God for these things. He has given me so much, I never want to lose it, take it for granted, or not be found as a faithful steward.

10 Things I Want to do Someday

2009-05-22T14:47:00.002-04:00

-in no particular order

-all potentially doable

-and of no spiritual value...

#1 - See Bruce Springsteen in concert

#2 - Take my wife to New York City for our anniversary

#3 - Take the kids to Disney Land

#4 - Watch Mississippi State win a National Championship in one of the three major sports

#5 - Skydive

#6 - Visit the Grand Canyon

#7 - Sail down the Mississippi River from start to finish

#8 - Own a brand new F150 Ford truck

#9 - Write a book

#10 - Drive or Ride in a NASCAR around a major track

The Day That Was

2009-05-03T20:57:00.002-04:00

*Largest "normal" Sunday crowd we've had in four years. Same for Sunday school. I have learned you can't predict God, manufacture a move of God, or manipulate Him. You merely worship HIm and celebrate what He does.

*Today we talked about why a woman must trust God. One main reason is because God commands a wife to submit to her husband and follow him. Yeah she has to have unwavering trust in God to do that! My wife would testify!

*Had a thought today: Whenever growth comes change will have to occur to in order to sustain it. What got you here, won't get you there. Not sure what that means for us, but i believe it will mean something in the days ahead.

*God is doing some awesome things. I pray I don't miss it because I want to do things my way.

*Had a TWO HOUR nap today. Oh yea!

*Random thought of the night: My wife is AMAZING! just sayin....

*Heading to Darlington Friday night for Bush race. 10 of us going and can't wait. Hope no cars try to go airborne.

*Celebrity Apprentice is on, ice cream is calling my name, I'm out.

An Open Letter to President Obama

2009-04-16T14:43:00.002-04:00

Mr. President,

I couldn't help but notice all the media coverage you have been receiving lately regarding which church you would join and attend. It is entirely understandable that this is no simple decision for a sitting President. There are theological, political, and security considerations that affect this decision. If I may and since I am a pastor and know a little bit about "church life" could I possibly offer you a little advice on making that decision?

1 - Find a church with a pastor that actually preaches the WHOLE BIBLE accurately and unapologetically.

This is the most important issue for me. It all starts with truth as revealed by God. If we don't emphasize that then the church is not going to benefit you in the least. As Christians let me remind you of some non-negotiable, essential truths that must be taught:

*God created everything and made it perfect.

*Man listened to Satan, the agent of evil, and sinned against God.

*God is holy and cannot tolerate sin.

*He sent His Son Jesus Christ who was fully God, fully man, to be born of a virgin, to die on a cross, be resurrected from the grave all to take away our sins and give us His righteousness.

*By grace through faith, man must believe in Jesus and repent of his sins to be made eternally right with God.

*One day those who come to Jesus will live in eternal paradise with God worshipping Him forever and ever.

2 - Do not let Washington insiders, popularity polls, skin color, or even church "prestige" sway your decision.

This is between you and God. Ask Him to lead you, your lovely wife, and precious children to the church He wants you to be a part of.

3- Look for a church with people who will genuinely care for you as a child of God and not because of your job.

This means they will seek to pray for you, encourage you, and love you even if they don't always agree with you. They won't try to get to know you because of what you can do for them, but so that they can serve you.

4 - Do be involved.

I recognize that due to your job your ability to serve in a church is limited but I imagine there are things you can do to fulfill your obligations as a member of the body. Imagine what message it would send to the nation to see the President take a turn in the nursery? Sing in the choir? Coach kids or men in the church recreation league?

5 - By all means, START TITHING

Your tax returns were made public this week and I couldn't help but notice you made $ 2.7 million dollars last year but donated only $ 1,400 to churches. As President I don't know what the rules/regulations are that govern your charitable giving but make sure you are honoring God by giving back to Him a consistent tithe. He has chosen to place you in the highest office in the land for such a time as this. Don't turn your back on Him in your finances or any other aspect of your life for that matter. Honor the Lord and support the kingdom work of your local church.

Please know that I write these things to you but would say that to anyone considering a church including if they were visiting our church. Speaking of which you are welcome to visit Winfield Heights any Sunday you choose. Trust that you will hear the Bible preached, Jesus will be exalted, and the people will greet you warmly. The offering plate will also be passed but since you are a guest the only thing we ask you is for you to fill out the "Visitor's card" and drop it in it.

Sincerely,

Jamie Wootten

Pastor

Don't Know if I'll Sleep Tonight

2009-04-11T21:59:00.001-04:00

Can't wait for Resurrection Sunday. We will most definitely be singing this song tomorrow. Be there 10AM!

Sunday's Coming

2009-04-10T00:53:00.001-04:00

What I'm excited about this week...

2009-04-06T07:40:00.002-04:00

In no particular order-

It's spring break!
Get to spend extra time with kids and stay up much later.
It's Master's week.
It's Master's week (golf related).
Getting to join with other community churches for Holy Week services everyday at noon.
Get to hear Bro. Phinice Young (an African -American preacher) in our pulpit today.
I get to preach in African American church this week!
Racial Reconciliation and the family of God.
Maundy Thursday service
Opening day of baseball last night.
Braves won!
Had our largest "normal, nothing going on Sunday" Sunday morning crowd ever in my 4 years yesterday. And it was spring break and I didn't preach.
Sunday is the Super Bowl of all Sunday's. Can't wait to preach about the Resurrected Christ and why we would be hopeless if He hadn't / couldn't done what He did.

The Day That Was

2009-03-29T21:18:00.002-04:00

* Wow, biggest crowd of the year so far today. I am becoming more comfortable with the idea that God will bring those He wants each day. On the days its many we will give thanks and when the numbers are low we will be sad for those we don't meet with, but will still give God praise.

*Spoke on the need to forgive and how much damage being unwilling to forgive does to us.

*At the invitation time we had the opportunity to write down on paper the name and issue of a person we needed to forgive and then actually make the choice to forgive them.

*To commemorate giving this burden to Jesus we brought those slips of paper to the altar at the invitation and ran them through a paper shredder.

*Hearing the sound of the paper shredder shred slips of paper filled with burdens of unforgiveness was moving. Somebody had a breakthrough day today.

*Having a really good time with both Sunday sermon series...AM- Fireproof Your Marriage

PM- Study through book of Exodus.

*Love Andy Stanley and will never be half the communicator he is, BUT expository preaching does work.

*Cannot believe a plane ticket I have been watching for two weeks that hasn't changed suddenly went up $400 today when I was finally ready to book. Need a dose of what I preached tonight: God knows what we need when we need it.

*My NCAA bracket is officially busted. Thanks Louisville. Really, thanks...

*Lots more to do tonight before I sleep so peace out, and we'll catch you on the flip side....

Facebook Fallacies

2009-03-25T00:01:00.000-04:00

It seems the newest craze among adults wishing to be youthful again is Facebook. The teenagers once owned this domain and one figures that since lame adults have crashed the party it is only a matter of time before they leave and find something new to do that we haven't yet figured out. That's cool and to be expected. But I have noticed some issues coming up that just don't seem to be too wise and I am doing my best to avoid. For as fun and useful as Facebook can be it can also be very damaging if not done correctly (like most things...). I thought I would offer a few tips on what to do and not do with Facebook that might just save us all some needless grief.

1 - Do not air your dirty laundry for the world to see.

If you have grievances that need to be worked out, go to that person and handle the matter privately. Hmm, where have I heard that advice before? Matthew 18 maybe.....

2 - Do not take your church problems to the internet.

Aside from again needing to handle some things face to face and privately, what kind of witness is it to those lost "friends" of yours who see your wall. More on this in a moment...

3 - Do not make critical remarks about your job or boss on Facebook.

Hey dummy, they probably have a facebook account to and if not they will certainly hear about it sooner or later. Just ask the dude that got fired by Philadelphia Eagles management for posting critical comments about their personnel decisions. (Sorry couldn't find the link... trust me he did.)

4 - Be careful what pictures you post for the world to see.

If you are an attractive lady, please know there are some outfits you wear that can cause a good man to stumble even if you think they are just innocent pictures. Anything from dresses, to cut off shorts and T-shirts, to swimsuits and so much more. Just be mindful of us guys please...

If you enjoy partying and the "eat, drink, and be merry" lifestyle then that is okay. It is your choice. But just know that posting the picture of you passed out, drinking beer from a boot, or tipping the bottle of wine upside down may not make your mom happy and may not impress that potential employer who is doing a background check on you.

5 - Do be real.

I think it is a great thing to let the world see who you really are. We are all quirky, unique, and interesting. Let people have a peek into your world. Tell them your having a fun night with the kids, scared about a test result, or have a particular TV show you enjoy. It helps reminds us that we are all normal- whatever that is.

6- Share your faith.

One of the neat qualities of Facebook is how it blends your current life with your past, and how it brings together people from your various circles, work, church, high school, family, etc. I am guessing not all know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and might only remember you when you didn't either. Use this as an opportunity to show and tell what He has done in your life. You don't have to ram it down anyone's throat constantly but I'm sure your passion for Him will ooze out often and when it does be intentional about letting others know. What's the worse they can do..."defriend you?"

Now go enjoy Facebook and if you're not on, get on. I need some more friends.........

The Day That Was (Slow Fade edition)

2009-03-22T20:38:00.001-04:00

Preached today on how temptations can suck the life out of your marriage. Showed this video at the end of the sermon. Uh, I think it gets the point across....

Tithe Rap

2009-03-17T08:44:00.001-04:00

Now this is funny

The Day That Was (Monday edition)

2009-03-16T08:23:00.002-04:00

* Had a great Spirit filled day yesterday

*I honestly would not want to be anywhere other than Winfield Heights.

*It was great to see some people doing so much better than they have in a long time, but it breaks my heart to see others that are hurting more than ever.

*Eating up our Fireproof Your Marriage Sermon Series. Preached my first message ever out of the book Song of Solomon yesterday. Told our couples they need to get a good, practical commentary and have some late night devotions together out of that book. :)

*If our marriages are not different than the world's marriages it is because we are not following through with the commands of God's word- period! Jesus Christ changes everything including marriage.

*Can't imagine how difficult the service must have been at First Baptist Maryville yesterday.

*Studying through Exodus on Sunday nights. The life of Pharaoh shows me I shouldn't be surprised at how much evil can come from someone whose heart is hardened toward God.

*Speaking of Sunday night: where did everyone come from? Great crowd even with a bunch of people out.

*How bout them Dawgs! They pulled out an amazing win to claim the SEC basketball tournament. Yes we are the SEC champs. Not bragging, just haven't gotten to say that too much over the years...

*Can't believe they gave us a 13 seed. Seriously???

*Fill out your brackets this week and enjoy March Madness. I will....

The Day That Was

2009-03-08T20:30:00.002-04:00

*Really good day at WH today. It is always a good thing to come home from church and feel like you can conquer the world on Monday instead of wanting to jump off a ledge!

*Yes preachers do consider jumping off ledges quite often.

*Attendance climbed back up a little after being down the last few weeks.

*Whoever decided we should set our clocks up an hour out to be shot!

*May write my congressman this week and make the suggestion that if we must set our clocks up an hour we do it on Monday at 4PM instead of Saturday night.

*I am eating up our Fireproof your Marriage sermon series. Today had tough moments and be warned there will be more...

*When a person says "I just don't love my spouse any more" I do not see how they can reconcile that with the command given in 1 John 4:7. Simply put, if you say that you are in sin!

*So what were the two secrets to loving your spouse? According to 1 John 4:7-8 you must (1) Be Born of God which means be saved from your sins...and (2) Continue to grow daily in your knowledge of God. That's it! But notice which two people are involved in that and who is not. Loving your spouse is an issue that is based on your relationship with God and has nothing to do with whether or not your spouse is the "right person", good looking, nice, rich, smart, or if the stars are aligned. Of course it doesn't hurt to choose your partner wisely...

*Did I complain about the time change already?

*Dominated a 2 hour nap this afternoon. Guess I won't sleep tonight.

*Good times in our PM service as well. Think it was one of those nights you were glad you came. I know I was.

*Still can't get over all the people God has sent our way to help with our building project. Yesterday we had 15 people drive 2 1/2 hours on their off day to help us. They didn't know us and we didn't ask them. They approached us. Unbelievable. God has blessed us and I know He blessed them. Thank you Andy and Little River Baptist Church.

*Have a great week...

Sunday Morning Sermon Teaser

2009-03-05T00:01:00.000-05:00

Did you know:

The Bible says there are two secrets to loving your spouse.......and neither one involve choosing the right person!

So what are they? You got to be at church Sunday as we continue in our series Fireproof Your Marriage. You can't afford to miss this one. And oh yea, bring someone with you, especially a young couple or someone who's relationships are struggling.

Journey Through the Psalms

2009-03-04T08:17:00.003-05:00

Starting reading through the Psalms during my morning quiet times. Here are some thoughts I had today about Ps. 2.

- There was a plan being concocted by world leaders to totally remove God and Jesus from society.

Hmm. Not unlike what we can see today as well. Although I believe in the days to come it will become much worse and much more evident.

- Do you know what God did about it? He LAUGHED, promised to hand the keys over to the Son, and declared judgment WILL come.

My thought here is that if God's not panicking then we shouldn't either. We Christians (imho) spend far too much time fighting culture and government instead of serving God in whatever situation you find yourself in.

I said in a message the other night, if you are spending more time petitioning your Congressman instead of petitioning Jesus, you've got something backwards. You know when you study the NT you find that in Jesus day and in the days of the early church, the government was much more hostile and persecutory against the church than it is today in America YET, the church rarely protested and simply went on sharing Jesus with the world. And you know what...they GREW!

I believe if we spent more time praying for government leaders instead of fighting them, and working to build the Kingdom rather than make America a theocracy we would have more success. After all why should I get worried about situations that make God laugh?

FACEBOOK

2009-03-03T07:01:00.003-05:00

Okay so I have finally made the commitment and created a Facebook profile. If for no other reason than it seems everybody else is doing it and I hate being left out. We'll see how long I last...Now I just need some people to come be my friend..........

...anybody?????

...anybody????

The Third Generation

2009-02-24T00:01:00.000-05:00

For a post that sums up where I'm at in Southern Baptist Convention life check out this article by Steve McKinion. He absolutely nails what I and so many guys my age are thinking right now.

The Day That Was

2009-02-22T21:31:00.002-05:00

*Think our AM service was suffering a "Holy Hangover" from the Wild Game Banquet on Friday.

*Excited that 9 people came to Christ Friday night. That is big anytime, anywhere but especially around these parts.

*Still jacked up over Dr. Patterson's presentation. His quote that every boy needs a "big dog", a "real gun", and a "dad that won't lead him to Hell" is spot on. Some men out there need to hear that!

*Speaking of "man quotes"... Yes I said this this morning: "Take a survey of every child and teenager that attends this church. If their dad is not bringing them to church (and staying and getting involved himself) then in 20 years over 90% of these kids will not be found in a church anywhere!" I hope I am wrong but you know I'm not.

*Definitely time to take the music portion of our worship service to another level. Prayers are being prayed and conversations will soon be taking place to get the people we need to form a praise team of singers and add some instrumentation.

*We have some of these people already. God will bring the rest.

*We showed the movie Fireproof tonight in the EYB. Great crowd and even greater movie.

*Loved seeing that nearly 50% of those who came tonight were not members of WH.

*Next week kicks off our Fireproof Your Marriage sermon series. Can't wait and really believe God is going to use this to help some people. (And if you don't think your marriage needs help then your fooling yourself...)

*I'm getting a sense that God is up to something with some of the new young adults in our church.

*I'm looking for some musicians for a possible mid-week service geared toward college and careers. If you would be interested in helping get it started, drop me an email.

*Got to get on the ball this week with our summer mission trip plans. China 09 will be here before we know it.

*Are the Oscars one of the biggest wastes of time on TV or what???

*Have a great week.....

2009 Barnwell County Wildgame Banquet

2009-02-21T11:58:00.003-05:00

Last night nearly 250 packed our new EYB for our first attempt at a county wide wildgame banquet. What can I say but "Wow, what a night!" We had an all-star team of cooks that prepared a wonderful spread. Yes we did run low on our more exotic appetizers but hey we're newat this and trust me: no one walked away hungry. We gave away over $1,000 in door prizes including a brand new shotgun and I hope the next time we do this we can raise the bar even higher as more money and generous sponsors become available.

Our featured speaker of the night was Dr. Paige Patterson who is the president of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Ft. Worth, TX. He also happens to be an avid big game African safari hunter with some wild adventures to tell.

Not only did he give us a fantastic look at the African hunting landscape but he also spoke very candidly to the men in the room. He told us the number #1 problem facing America is the lack of father figures in the home. His call that every young boy needs three things: a big dog, a real gun, and a dad were spot on. I was challenged by this during my seminary days under Dr. P. and have attempted to incorporate that into my family and teach my church as well.

The greatest point of the night was when he clarified the "dad" issue. He said a boy does not need a dad that is taking him to Hell and that is what many are doing. Oh my! You could have heard a pin drop in the room. And having the attention of the crowd Dr. Patterson shared a very clear and compelling call to come to Christ, the only one who can create in you a clean heart. Now here's why we hosted this event, here is why we invited Dr. Patterson, and here is why we worked tirelessly around the clock to get our facility functional.........9 PEOPLE MADE THE DECISION TO ASK JESUS TO CREATE IN THEM A CLEAN HEART!!!! Yes!!!!

My philosophy on ministry is we will do everything we can to show our community a good time, make sure they have fun, receive gifts, and get their belly's full - all at a reasonably low cost, but we will make known to them the reason why we do what we do: Jesus Christ has changed our lives and wants to change theirs.

This event could not have happened without the work and generosity of so many people. My thanks to Rosemary Baptist and First Barnwell for all their help with planning and cooking, those who promoted the event, invited people, sold tickets, and prayed for their lost friends to come, those who worked to get our new building ready, everyone who served that night in any capacity, our vendors, Lee Clamp for emceeing, and especially Dr. Patterson for being a bold statesman for Jesus Christ and showing us what it means to be a man. For all the minor inconveniences and rookie mistakes we may have made, we apologize and look forward to serving the people of Barnwell County even better next time. We love you Barnwell County and want you to know how much your God loves you too.