Encapsulating Christmas

I was just thinking, being Christmas Eve, what set of verses seems to encapsulate the Christmas story best, and there are many verses I could quote, but today I was reminded of the following two sets of verses - Philippians 2:3-11 NIV:

[3] "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, [4] not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. [5] In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: 

[6] Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; 

[7] rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. 

[8] And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death---even death on a cross! 

[9] Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, 

[10] that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 

[11] and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."

- and - 

 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 NIV:

[17] "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! [18] All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: [19] that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. [20] We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. [21] God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God."

It is beyond our understanding to fully grasp the absolute Eternal Glory of what Jesus did in coming to earth and making a way for man to be reconciled to God once again!  We have the opportunity in Him to become completely new creations!  Our sinfulness is replaced by God's very righteousness!  God Loves us so much that He made this all possible!  

I guess we could summarize this with the following two verses - John 3:16-17 NIV:  "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.  For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him."

Thank You Jesus for coming to earth to save us, to reconcile us, to enable us to walk in Your righteousness, to be new creations!  

Thank You for making a way Jesus! 

Amen and Amen!

The Work of Overcoming Resistance

Recently I have been reflecting on possessing the land, from a New Testament perspective and how it applies this side of Christ's revelation, death, resurrection and ascension.  In a similar theme, this morning I am reading from Acts 14, and looking at some of the battle and work required to spread the Gospel.  Here are some verses that demonstrate the situation and the battle - Acts 14:1-12,19-22 NIV:

[1] "At Iconium Paul and Barnabas went as usual into the Jewish synagogue. There they spoke so effectively that a great number of Jews and Greeks believed. [2] But the Jews who refused to believe stirred up the other Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers. [3] So Paul and Barnabas spent considerable time there, speaking boldly for the Lord, who confirmed the message of his grace by enabling them to perform signs and wonders. [4] The people of the city were divided; some sided with the Jews, others with the apostles. [5] There was a plot afoot among both Gentiles and Jews, together with their leaders, to mistreat them and stone them. [6] But they found out about it and fled to the Lycaonian cities of Lystra and Derbe and to the surrounding country, [7] where they continued to preach the gospel. 

[8] In Lystra there sat a man who was lame. He had been that way from birth and had never walked. [9] He listened to Paul as he was speaking. Paul looked directly at him, saw that he had faith to be healed [10] and called out, “Stand up on your feet!” At that, the man jumped up and began to walk. 

[11] When the crowd saw what Paul had done, they shouted in the Lycaonian language, “The gods have come down to us in human form!” [12] Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul they called Hermes because he was the chief speaker. 

[19] Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowd over. They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, thinking he was dead. [20] But after the disciples had gathered around him, he got up and went back into the city. The next day he and Barnabas left for Derbe. 

[21] They preached the gospel in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, [22] strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said."

I didn't copy the whole of the chapter, but these verses seem to color a picture for us of the highs and lows of efforts to preach the Gospel, as experienced by Paul and Barnabas.  They meet with success almost immediately, saw miracles and other signs, but then someone stirred up trouble and persecution, and their lives are threatened or attacked and then they needed to move.  It seemed to be a pattern that was repeated over and over, and in spite of the difficulties, Paul and Barnabas just pressed forward, and would move on to the next group or town.  They showed remarkable courage, and stamina in the face of regular difficulties.  Paul later compiled a list of all the difficulties he experienced and it was impressive for all he overcame (See 2 Cor 11:23-27).  

My point in all of this, is that in our modern semi-Christian, western society, we can forget the effort, cost and work involved in taking and possessing new land, using that as an analogy for spreading the Gospel.  The forces aligned against the Gospel have not gone away, but they have changed tactics and become more subtle.  Make no mistake, the advancement of the Gospel will be resisted. 

In our lives today, we see similar techniques, though sometimes at a societal level.  There are always efforts to discredit Gospel leaders, to drown out their voices and messages.  Rumours and unfounded accusations are often brought against churches, against ministries and against the faith, in a widespread effort to stamp out the Gospel.  Other times the efforts are to water-down the Gospel to the extent that it is anemic and powerless.  Other times the Gospel is presented as just a whitewashed  repackaging of the law, and again it is anemic and powerless.  

In our personal lives, the enemy works overtime to convince us of our own powerlessness, and inabilities. He works to convince us of our sinfulness, our disqualification due to whatever brokenness or entrenched sin might be present in our lives. Additionally, he distracts us, gets us so busy in our lives, or the TV shows, or whatever, to keep us from pressing forward in representing the Gospel.  We might encounter resistance from friends, family members, work associates, and the like, all aimed at trying to reduce the impact we might have if we lived 100% for the Gospel.

Secondly, those that experience and operate in the power of the Holy Spirit, are definitely targets of the persecution and smear tactics of the enemy. Often these are delivered by other well-meaning Christians who are convinced that any power is of the devil, and the only way forward for the Gospel is logic and the Word.  There is great fear of the unknown and uncontrolled, and the Holy Spirit is often viewed with great skepticism and mistrust.  

When I read the Gospels and Acts, one thing seems clear to me, the Gospel proclamation was always coupled with the demonstration of the power and authority of Jesus.  We see a great example of how such demonstrations of power and authority are received in verse 8 above.  In our minds, such things are only accomplished by God.  The immediate restoration of muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerve pathways to allow a man who was crippled from birth to jump up and walk around is impossible, even with all the the science and medicine available today!!  Such a miracle can only be accomplished by God, and that's the point!  The Gospel is meant to confront our unbelief, our logic, and cause us to change our minds (repent). 

In my opinion, we must have an openness to such demonstrations of healing, miracles and signs and wonders, for our witness to change the world.  We clearly can't do such things without the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, and that is for our protection, for the Lord knows we would take all the credit. We must learn to walk out our faith, humbly recognizing our inability, and His great ability, and press forward to see the Gospel preached, the Kingdom advanced and lives changed for eternity!  

Lord, I pray that You might encourage and strengthen us, even as You did Paul and Barnabas!  Help us to walk in humility, and in Your power and Authority that the world would know that You are alive and well and inviting them to belief!  Help us to realize that opposition will come, and that in seeing it, we might be strengthened in our resolve and witness.  We must not shy away from the work that is required, and some of that work in overcoming the resistance of the enemy and the worldly mindset he fosters.  

Lord, help us to press into the fullness of all You have for us, trusting that You will bear witness to the truth of the Gospel, even as You did through Paul and Barnabas!  We want to see Your name Glorified Jesus!  I join my prayer to the prayer of the Apostles in Acts 4:29-30 NIV: "Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.”

Amen and Amen!

A Superior Truth

This morning I find myself back in Paul's first letter to Timothy, reflecting on Paul's short autobiographical description of his state prior to his conversion.  I am just encouraged by his complete reversal of thought and action as a result of his new revelation as described in Acts 9:1-31.  Here are his brief words describing his state - 1 Timothy 1:12-17 NIV:

[12] "I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me trustworthy, appointing me to his service. [13] Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. [14] The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus." 

[15] "Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners---of whom I am the worst. [16] But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life. [17] Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen."

Now Paul was a highly educated man, having studied the Jewish faith and law all of his life, studied under a famous teacher (See acts 22:1-22) and one who was zealous for what he believed was the truth.  He was fully convinced of the truth of his beliefs, and saw everything from that perspective.  We could say that his grid of understanding was firmly settled.  He had been taught the law, which by this point had been known and taught for hundreds of years, it was well established, and had a solid backing.  He wasn't pushing some new ideas, just zealous for all he had been taught, and believed it was the truth, and it was something he was willing to fight over, and kill over.  He was a man of great belief, and held firmly to his principles.

On the other hand, in retrospect, he described himself as being ignorant and in unbelief.  No one else would have described him that way.  What happened is that He encountered the living Christ, and one could say was given a superior truth.  I am reminded of a verses from John's gospel where Jesus described Himself - John 14:6-7 NIV:

[6] Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. [7] If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.”

In two very short verses, I think Jesus sums up the basics of what Paul experienced.  He encountered Jesus as the Truth, and went on to fully experience and know Him.  It is interesting that Paul (still Saul at this point) was persecuting "The Way" as the early Christian's called themselves, or their faith, and Jesus took that very personally. Here is the description of that event - Acts 9:3-5 NIV:

[3] As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. [4] He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” 

[5] “Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked. 

“I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied."

In this interaction, and in the events that followed, Saul was convinced of the superior truth of Jesus as the very Son of God, and the Gospel of Grace and become the great defender of this greater Truth.  His ignorance and unbelief was confronted and changed.  Saul's  former way of thinking was laid aside and it was replaced by that which he witnessed and experienced as Truth. He effectively became a new creation, and took a new name of Paul.  

2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!"  

We find the name change alluded to in Acts 13, where he starts the chapter referred to as Saul, but ends the chapter referred to as Paul.  Saul is Jewish name which means "Desired", while Paul is a Greek name that means "small or little".  While we don't know exactly why the name change occurred, I think it reflects, in part, Paul's new perspective of himself as compared to Christ Jesus, who he met personally on the road to Damascus.  Whatever the case, Paul was completely changed by that encounter, and dedicated his life to preaching the good news, and glorifying Jesus.

This morning I am greatly encouraged that Jesus is quite capable of convincing even the most well educated and zealous individuals of His identity as the way, the truth and the life.  I pray for all those I know who have seen the church, or Christians who have poorly represented Christ Jesus and concluded that He is not worthy of their time or lives.  I pray that we all might encounter Jesus as He truly is, the "King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God!"

Amen and Amen! 

Free From My Past

Yesterday morning I was listening to Chris Valloton speaking about getting rid of regrets, and it was a really good complement to some of what our pastor  taught on this past Sunday.  I shared it with a friend last evening, and shared a few things out of it last night, as we were talking about vulnerability and shame in our home group. I think the verses that he shared out of Romans 8, about Paul not including the past was significant.  In the previous writings, I had always pointed out that the only thing not on the list was our own selves, and that we can separate ourselves from God's love, and I think he nailed it by identifying it as our own regret and shame over our past.

Here are the verses from Paul's letter to the Romans 8:31-35,37-39 NIV:

[31] "What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? [32] He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all---how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? [33] Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. [34] Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died---more than that, who was raised to life---is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us." 

[35] "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? [37] No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. [38] For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, [39] neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

In these verses Paul specifically mentions "neither the present nor the future", but specifically doesn't mention the past.  Again, its not like the past can actually separate us from God's love, for Jesus paid for all our sins, past, present and future.  What matters is how WE handle our past.  All of us have sinned, have things we have done that are wrong, and even in some cases terrible.  Paul, the author of these verses, was an instigator in the persecution of Christians, and some think he was involved in 1000+ deaths (according to Chris V.), and yet his encouragement of how to deal with one's past was written in his letter to the Philippians 3:12-14 NIV:

[12] "Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. [13] Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, [14] I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."

Paul was clearly one who could have had significant regrets, and one would think his past would have disqualified him from being an Apostle, and yet Christ specifically chose him, and broke into his life in a miraculous way, and from that day onward Paul was a changed man, one could say even a new creation.  Paul became the strongest voice for the Gospel of Grace, recognizing that nothing he did earned him the salvation and redemption that Christ gifted to him.  Paul was very aware of the gift that had been given to him, as he wrote in his letter to 1 Timothy 1:12-17 NIV:

[12] "I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me trustworthy, appointing me to his service. [13] Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. [14] The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus." 

[15] "Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners---of whom I am the worst. [16] But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life. [17] Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen."

What a great testament to the redemptive power, the mercy, love and compassion of Jesus!  Even if you killed 1000+ Christians, or something even worse, there is forgiveness and redemption available to you, in Christ Jesus.  If your sins are far less terrible, like unbelief, or denying Christ Jesus, or pornography, or sexual immorality, or anger, or greed, or stealing, or saying bad things, or gossip or slander, or seeing something bad and doing nothing to stop it, or any of a thousand other sins, THERE is forgiveness, redemption, mercy, compassion and love available for you!  Christ still sees in you His purpose and plans and beautiful creation!  Despite his best efforts, Paul was unable to disqualify himself from Christ's redemptive love, and neither can any of us! 

Perhaps it is something that was done to you, or happened to you that you feel has damaged you beyond hope, beyond Christ's ability to heal and restore.  Maybe you see yourself as damaged goods, unworthy, undependable and broken.  Again, when Christ Jesus looks at you He see you as His beautiful creation, one has survived the fire. Going back to Paul's writing from Romans, "Who (or what) shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?"  There is hope for the wounded, damaged, broken and hurting!  In Him is mercy, love and compassion, and He still chooses you!

The enemy works overtime to convince us otherwise.  He tries to get us to agree with his accusations, to disqualify ourselves, as having done something too terrible or stupid for Christ to ever trust us again!  He is the accuser.  As Paul wrote in Romans 8:33-34a: Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who then is the one who condemns? No one."   This is the TRUTH, anything else is a lie from the pit of hell.   

This morning I am so encouraged that my past sin and idiocy is incapable of separating me the Love of Christ Jesus!  I am convinced that is I release my past, cut the ropes of regret, and cast off the shame, that I am free of all that previously bound me, in Christ Jesus!  He does not condemn me, why should I agree with my accuser?  If Christ Jesus is my defender and the judge, why in the world would I ever listen to and agree with the accuser?

Thank You Lord for Your redemptive work in my life!  Thank You for setting me free from my past!

Amen and Amen!

What Is This Eternal Life?

This morning I am reminded of the question I had as I ended my prayer time a few days ago - what is this eternal life we possess, and what does it include? 

I have done some research in the past on this theme, but today will dig in some more. I think its safe to say that the Jews, at the time of Jesus, had an idea of Eternal life, as they were asking Him about it (see Mark 10:17), but rather than spend much time on that topic, I think we will let Strong's comments summarize that understanding.  

"Usage: The Greek word "aiónios" is used in the New Testament to describe something that is eternal or everlasting. It often refers to the nature of God, the life promised to believers, and the duration of divine judgment. The term emphasizes the concept of timelessness and perpetuity, transcending the temporal limitations of the earthly realm.

Cultural and Historical Background: In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of eternity was often associated with the divine and the afterlife. The Jewish understanding of eternity, as reflected in the Old Testament, was rooted in the eternal nature of God and His covenant promises. The New Testament writers, influenced by both Jewish and Hellenistic thought, used "aiónios" to convey the eternal realities of God's kingdom, salvation, and judgment."

This morning I want to look at the time's Jesus spoke about Eternal Life, as I am pretty sure, His answers were meant to correct perspectives, and open eyes to the greater reality and invitation. In the three synoptic Gospels, Jesus is quoted as speaking about eternal life a couple of times in each, usually in response to a question about how to receive it.  He does speak about the narrow path that leads to life (Matt 7:14) but the original Greek doesn't include "eternal" as an adjective.  It is in John's Gospel that we have the majority of Jesus' comments about eternal life, so that is where I will focus my reading and reflection.

John 3:14-16,34-36 NIV:

[14] "Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, [15] that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.” 

[16] "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." 

[34] "For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit. [35] The Father loves the Son and has placed everything in his hands. [36] Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God's wrath remains on them."

In each of the instances that quoted above the same Greek word, is used, and interestingly this 'eternal life" is received by whoever believes.  In this case the Greek word is the same in each instance and is the word "pisteuo".  This is define as: "to think to be true, to be persuaded, to place confidence in:  One of the secondary definitions (B.2) is to trust in Jesus or God as able to aid either in obtaining or doing something." (BLB Interlinear Study guide).  This certainly ties back to the idea of eternal life, and the eternal nature of God.  Somehow our belief in what He is saying about Himself, in His salvation, opens the door to Eternal Life. 

Going back to the creation story in Genesis, Adam was created of dirt outside the garden and then placed in the Garden of Eden by God (See Gen 2:7-8).  We see this mirrored here, where God can effectively place us into eternal life, through our belief in Him.  IN fact Jesus says something very similar later in John 5:21 NIV:  "For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, even so the Son gives life to whom he is pleased to give it."

Summarizing the previous few instances, we receive eternal life through our belief, not through some actions, and it is given to us by God.  The question remains, besides partaking (somehow) in the everlasting nature of God,  what is this eternal life?  Jesus, in His last great prayer gives us some additional perspective.  Here are the verses - John 17:1-3 NIV:

[1] "After Jesus said this, he looked toward heaven and prayed:

 “Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you. [2] For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him. [3] Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent."

According to this statement, eternal life is knowing God the Father, and Jesus His Son ( I think we can safely add in here Holy Spirit, too.)  This knowing is the Greek word "ginosko" and is really the key here I think. There are some very helpful definitions I found in the Strong's entry for this word - quoted below:

"Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: - H3045 - יָדַע (yada): To know, to perceive, to understand. This Hebrew verb shares a similar range of meanings with "ginóskó," emphasizing relational and experiential knowledge.

Usage: The Greek verb "ginóskó" primarily means "to know" or "to come to know." It implies a knowledge that is gained through experience or personal relationship. In the New Testament, it often denotes an intimate or relational knowledge, as opposed to mere intellectual understanding. This verb is used to describe both human and divine knowledge, including the knowledge of God, self-awareness, and understanding of others.

Cultural and Historical Background: In the Greco-Roman world, knowledge was highly valued, often associated with philosophical inquiry and understanding of the divine. The Hebrew concept of knowledge, which influences the New Testament usage, emphasizes relational and experiential knowledge. In the biblical context, "ginóskó" often reflects a deep, personal relationship, such as the knowledge between God and His people or between individuals in a covenant relationship.

HELPS Word-studies

1097 ginṓskō – properly, to know, especially through personal experience (first-hand acquaintance). 1097 /ginṓskō ("experientially know") is used for example in Lk 1:34, "And Mary [a virgin] said to the angel, 'How will this be since I do not know (1097 /ginṓskō = sexual intimacy) a man?'"

Going back to the statement Jesus made, "this is eternal life, that they know (ginosko) You, the only true God".  in other words it is a knowing, through personal relationship, experientially, God!  This relationship, this experiencing of God and His nature and character is at the center of this eternal life, which we are given! It denotes much more than head knowledge, but implies intimate knowledge! 

It is almost as if Jesus is saying, We (as in the Holy Trinity) want to be known by You!  If you would only believe, then We will give you this relationship! 

That seems like a very simple sentence, but it is absolutely loaded with much more than we can comprehend!   Here are just some thoughts expanding these sentences:

The God who created the universe wants to have a relationship with us where we know Him intimately.

The God who created me, who knows me intimately, wants me to know Him.

This idea that belief is the gate to knowing God, just seems too easy.

There is a surety that is expressed and in general our possession of eternal life in relationship with God is spoken of in the past tense, as it is something we already have!  (Whoever believes in the Son HAS eternal life - John 3:36).  

It is as if when we believe God moves us from the dirt into the garden, from death into life.

In light of these truths, one wonders how our life should be changed?  How does this knowing of God, and His Son Jesus Christ, affect our lives?  What should our life look like?

As I consider this, I am brought back to the life of Jesus, for I believe this is what He demonstrated to us.  He provided us with an example of someone who knows the Father, who listens to the Father, who says what the Father is saying, who does what the Father is doing!  I think He walked in perfect awareness of the Father, in deep intimacy and relationship with the Father, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and showed us what that life looked like, through His public ministry.  

So, if we have this "Eternal Life" does that mean we can do similar things, if so directed by the Lord?

The Lord is quite clear that the answer is yes!  

John 14:11-12 NIV:

[11] "Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or at least believe on the evidence of the works themselves. [12] Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father."

Matthew 10:7-8 NIV:

[7] "As you go, proclaim this message: 'The kingdom of heaven has come near.' [8] Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give."

Looking at the last statement in verse 8 above, "Freely you have received; freely give."  What have we received?  I think one answer is clearly eternal life!

In summary, there is much more to dig into, but I think I understand that part of this eternal life I have received through His gift, because of my belief in Him, is a walking in deeper unity, deeper relationship and intimacy with Him.  He is inviting me to go deeper, to learn of Him, to experience Him!  He wants me to know Him, and will show me more of Him.   Part of my walking in this "eternal life" which I HAVE been given, is an invitation to do the works Jesus had been doing!  

Wow, there is so much more!  

Lord, I certainly can't make this happen, it is something You give!  I ask that You would help me to know You more!  I ask that You would open my eyes, ears and heart that I might know You experientially to greater depths and heights!  I am reminded of Paul's prayer from Ephesians 3:16-19 NIV:

[16] "I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, [17] so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, [18] may have power, together with all the Lord's holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, [19] and to know this love that surpasses knowledge---that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God."

Amen and Amen!

Possessing: Land and Eternal Life

This morning as I was sitting down to pray I heard 1111 and decided to turn to that page in my Bible, which happens to be in the concordance.  I was scanning over the words on that page and the word "possess" caught my eye.  There were two verses quoted for context, one in Num. 33:53, an d the other is John 5:39. Looks like time to do some digging.  

Here are the verses - Numbers 33:51-54 NIV:

[51] “Speak to the Israelites and say to them: 'When you cross the Jordan into Canaan, [52] drive out all the inhabitants of the land before you. Destroy all their carved images and their cast idols, and demolish all their high places. [53] Take possession of the land and settle in it, for I have given you the land to possess. [54] Distribute the land by lot, according to your clans. To a larger group give a larger inheritance, and to a smaller group a smaller one. Whatever falls to them by lot will be theirs. Distribute it according to your ancestral tribes."

- and - John 5:36-40 NIV:

[36] “I have testimony weightier than that of John. For the works that the Father has given me to finish---the very works that I am doing---testify that the Father has sent me. [37] And the Father who sent me has himself testified concerning me. You have never heard his voice nor seen his form, [38] nor does his word dwell in you, for you do not believe the one he sent. [39] You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that (by them you possess) in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me, [40] yet you refuse to come to me to have life."

In the verse from Numbers, the word translated possess is Hebrew word "yaras", which Strong's defines: to occupy (by driving out previous tenants and possessing in their place) by implication to seize, to rob, to inherit, also to expel, cast out, to ruin.... 

As I read the definition and see the context in Numbers, it is clear that this possessing of the land is something that requires work, determination and faith.  This is not for the faint of heart, or the lazy.  There is a permanence to this idea... to come in, take possession, make it your own and settle there.  There is also a radicalness to the driving out and ridding that which was there previously.  

Lately I have been thinking about our inheritance, as Co-heirs with Christ.  When I think about inheriting something, in my natural and western understanding, inheritance is something that you receive because of relationship (usually bloodline) not something you have to earn (those are my thoughts about it).  this taking possession of the land stuff seems like lots of work!

In the verses from John, the word translated possess is the original Greek word "echo". Definition: To have, to hold, to possess. In this case the Jews think they can possess eternal life through studying the scriptures. 

Looking at the verses from John, we have actually heard this from our pastor recently, that all scripture is about Jesus, as He says in verse 39.  There is also a diligence associated here, but it is in studying the scriptures.  As noted above, they thought they could possess this eternal life just by knowing the scriptures, but Jesus points out in verse 40 that the way to possess this eternal life is through Him, through relationship.  

I love how these two words and sets of verses effectively show the progressive understanding of what we are invited into, by the Lord. In Church we have been studying Genesis, and our Pastor talks about how everything ties back to the foundations of Genesis.  Here we see a good example, for God's original intent was that mankind would live in relationship with Him in the Garden.  After their sin, they are cast out, and the promised land becomes a sort of replacement, if you will, a place where they can live as assigned by God, and God would make His presence to dwell with them (In the Tabernacle, in the Holy of Holies). 

The idea or concept of eternal life, is essentially the effort to get back to the life they lost in the Garden, living God's life.  The Jews thought that by perfectly following the Law, they could somehow repossess that which they lost, and Jesus, in these verses, corrects that idea.  He says all of the scriptures point to Him, and it is through relationship with Him that we are able to once again possess (if you will) this "eternal life".

A few verses earlier Jesus made the following statement - John 5:21 NIV:  "For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, even so the Son gives life to whom he is pleased to give it."

This certainly seems like a very clear statement, but it was one that many missed, for they were thinking somehow their actions earned them this eternal life.  Surprisingly, this is one we still miss, for many of us are continuing to try and earn our way to heaven, thinking it is by our efforts (or lack) that determines whether we make it into heaven or not.   We miss the point that Jesus makes at the end of verse 21, He "GIVES" it!  

We don't earn it, He gives it as a gift! 

In interestingly, our whole service was focused on the fact that we receive Jesus' righteousness as a gift. Righeousness is not something we earn, something we can attain, which is one of the requirements for eternal life, and the only way we are righteous is through direct relationship with Jesus.

Getting back to the theme of possessing the land or eternal life, I wrote a reflection about 3 years ago on this theme that was quite insightful.  I saw the parallel of possessing the Land in the Old Testament, with the ministry of Jesus, and the early Church.  It is a helpful  perspective concerning this theme today.  Here is a link: 

https://amomentwithgod-srh.blogspot.com/2021/12/possessing-land.html

Drawing these two ideas together, the idea of possessing the Land and possessing Eternal life, both are only accomplished through relationship with God!  In his later writing John makes this abundantly clear.   1 John 5:11-13 NIV:

[11] "And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. [12] Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life." 

[13] I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life."

This certainly seems very clear. I actually like the Passion Translation of these three verses a little better - 1 John 5:11-13 TPT:

[11] "This is the true testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life has its source in his Son. [12] Whoever has the Son has eternal life; whoever does not have the Son does not possess eternal life. 

[13] I've written this letter to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you will be assured and know without a doubt that you have eternal life."

Interestingly, the Greek word that is translated in verses 12 "has" is the word Echo, which we saw briefly above.  Here is the write up from Strong's - 

"Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: The Hebrew equivalent often used in similar contexts is יֵשׁ (yesh), which also denotes possession or existence.

Usage: The Greek verb "echó" primarily means "to have" or "to hold." It is used extensively in the New Testament to denote possession, relationship, or condition. The term can refer to physical possession, such as having an object, or more abstract concepts, such as having faith or a particular status. It is a versatile verb that appears in various contexts, indicating ownership, association, or a state of being.

Cultural and Historical Background: In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of possession was significant, not only in terms of material wealth but also in terms of social status and relationships. The verb "echó" reflects this cultural emphasis on what one possesses, whether tangible or intangible. In the New Testament, this term is often used to describe spiritual states or conditions, such as having eternal life or having peace with God, reflecting the early Christian understanding of spiritual possession and identity in Christ."

I love how John writes to make sure that they understand and know that they HAVE this eternal life! If it is true for them, it is true for us as well!  

We have this eternal life, if we have relationship with Jesus!  In the same way that possessing the land required action on the part of the Jews, relationship with Jesus, as with anyone, requires active participation.  We don't grow in relationship if we never converse (pray) or get to know the other person experientially.  All healthy relationships are two-way, and mutually beneficial.  In the same way that I must work at my relationship with my wife to keep it healthy and growing, I must commit to working on my relationship with Jesus.  My "work" is similar to that which I do with any other relationship, I spend time, talk, listen, observe, interact with and share of myself.  I "work" on my relationship with Jesus by spending a few hours every day in prayer, reflection, listening, and conversing.  It certainly doesn't feel like work, but it is up to me to do!  

What is amazing to me is that this relationship with Jesus also opens the door to Eternal life!  As John writes, "I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have (possess) eternal life."

This leads me to the next question for reflection, what is this eternal life we possess, and what does it include?  I think that will be subject for my reflection tomorrow.

This morning I am encouraged that relationship with Jesus is a restoration of what was lost in the Garden. I am encouraged that I have the invitation to step into real relationship with Jesus!  I am encouraged that this relationship is a gift, and one that requires an investment on my part.  I am encouraged that there is apparently more to relationship with Jesus than is obvious at first glance.  I am encouraged to press in, to grow in my knowledge and experiential encountering of the Lord.  I am encouraged and assured and know without a doubt, that I possess this eternal life! 

Amen and Amen!

Our Hidden Reality

Yesterday, while flying back from some business meetings, I was listening to worship music and trying to get my mind, heart and spirit focused on the spiritual reality of our hiddenness in Christ, and our presence with Him in the Throne Room. A couple of verses that are foundational to this understanding are:

Colossians 3:1-3 NIV:

[1] "Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. [2] Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. [3] For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God."

Ephesians 2:4-6 NIV:

[4] "But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, [5] made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions---it is by grace you have been saved. [6] And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus,"...

Romans 8:14-17 NIV:

[14] "For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. [15] The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” [16] The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. [17] Now if we are children, then we are heirs---heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory."

These verses when read together are almost unbelievable and yet, I do believe they are true!  My prayer yesterday and again this morning is that in some way I might become more aware of these truths, that they might fuel my interactions with the Lord, and my faith!  I pray that I might be more aware of what is happening in the Heavenly realm, that I might be a conduit, if you will, for Heaven to have greater influence in my daily life!

I pray for a heightened sensitivity to these spiritual realities, that I might catch an occasional glimpse of this heavenly throneroom!  

I pray that my mind might be enlightened and I might operate from these spiritual truths, as my default, rather than from what I observe with my natural senses. 

I pray that my spiritual eyes and ears might be opened, that my heart might be constantly aware of the Lord, and what He is saying and doing! 

I pray that I might step into and operate from the mindset of being a co-heir with Christ Jesus! 

In looking back over these prayers, I must say I don't even understand these prayers, for this reality is so much much beyond my present experience!  However, I am encouraged by the writings and lives of those who have pressed into these realities and seen the Lord do miraculous things in their lives, and through their lives.  I am encouraged by the life of Christ, for I believe this is exactly what He was modelling in His ministry.  I am encouraged by the lives and writings of the Apostles, for they were clearly just men like us, but they became aware of these truths and lived them out!

Oh Lord Help me in my ignorance and dull mindedness.  Help me, for it is only in and through You that any of this is true, and if it is true then I believe You want us to experience this truth!

Amen and Amen!

Homecoming With A Twist

This morning I am meditating on Luke 4, where Jesus goes back to Nazareth.  I was just thinking about impactful this visit could have been... compared to how it ended.  The exchange there is good proof, in my opinion, that Jesus said what He heard the father saying, and didn't stray into His own opinions or ideas.  Here is the account, its a bit long - Luke 4:14-30 NIV:

[14] "Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit, and news about him spread through the whole countryside. [15] He was teaching in their synagogues, and everyone praised him. 

[16] He went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, as was his custom. He stood up to read, [17] and the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to him. Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written: [18] “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, [19] to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.” 

[20] Then he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him. [21] He began by saying to them, “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” 

[22] All spoke well of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his lips. “Isn't this Joseph's son?” they asked. 

[23] Jesus said to them, “Surely you will quote this proverb to me: 'Physician, heal yourself!' And you will tell me, 'Do here in your hometown what we have heard that you did in Capernaum.' ” 

[24] “Truly I tell you,” he continued, “no prophet is accepted in his hometown. [25] I assure you that there were many widows in Israel in Elijah's time, when the sky was shut for three and a half years and there was a severe famine throughout the land. [26] Yet Elijah was not sent to any of them, but to a widow in Zarephath in the region of Sidon. [27] And there were many in Israel with leprosy in the time of Elisha the prophet, yet not one of them was cleansed---only Naaman the Syrian.” 

[28] All the people in the synagogue were furious when they heard this. [29] They got up, drove him out of the town, and took him to the brow of the hill on which the town was built, in order to throw him off the cliff. [30] But he walked right through the crowd and went on his way."

When I read something like this I try to imagine the actual context, the scene as it would have happened in real life.  Jesus had moved away from Nazareth to Capernaum and had recently begun His ministry, and word about Him was spreading.  The two towns are apparently about 40 miles apart, so its possible that they (The people in Nazareth) had only heard rumors of His ministry at this point.  

I imagine Him going back to his home synagogue, the one He would have frequented as a young man.  I imagine the place was filled with people He knew, people He grew up with, and there was a wonderful, familial experience to be enjoyed.  He got up and read from Isaiah 61, and essentially proclaimed that He was the messiah, for the verses He read were understood to refer to the coming Messiah.  Verse 22 captures, what I think is the initial response of the people.  They are amazed, surprised, trying to put him back into the context that they know Him in (Jospeh's son) and were of a favorable opinion.  

If the conversation ended here, one would think that this day would have been a grand celebration, a sort of homecoming celebration, as Jesus, once  a normal member of this town is coming back in God's Glory!  However, as we know from other Gospel's, Luke didn't quite capture the whole of the event here.  There are some additional details provided by Mark and Matthew. 

Mark 6:2-3 NIV:

[2] "When the Sabbath came, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were amazed. “Where did this man get these things?” they asked. “What's this wisdom that has been given him? What are these remarkable miracles he is performing? [3] Isn't this the carpenter? Isn't this Mary's son and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas and Simon? Aren't his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him."

Matthew 13:54-58 NIV:

[54] "Coming to his hometown, he began teaching the people in their synagogue, and they were amazed. “Where did this man get this wisdom and these miraculous powers?” they asked. [55] “Isn't this the carpenter's son? Isn't his mother's name Mary, and aren't his brothers James, Joseph, Simon and Judas? [56] Aren't all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all these things?” [57] And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own town and in his own home.” [58] And he did not do many miracles there because of their lack of faith."

It is so helpful to gain the context of each of the other accounts, for we can start to see the heart attitude changing towards Jesus.  They were well acquainted with Him, and they had witnessed none of what He was doing in other towns and villages, and yet he had lived in their midst for close to 20 years.  He had lived an unremarkable life, from their perspective, and here He was proclaiming in their midst that He was the one Isaiah was speaking of prophetically!  He had demonstrated no miracles, none of the "wisdom" and "gracious words" that He was speaking.  I have spent quite some time reflecting on the quiet period of Jesus' life, and these people had witnessed that period.  

To try and put it in any context, I imagine this would be like coming back to your first highschool reunion, and the one quiet guy in your class who came from a large family, most of whom were more well known than him, stands up and says I am going to be the next President of the United States.  If he wasn't laughed out of the place, he certainly wouldn't be held in high regard afterwards... no matter how eloquent he sounded, for he was known, and he was of no-account! 

I think it is difficult for us to fully grasp the dynamics displayed in Nazareth that day, and into the midst of all that the Father has Jesus stoke the flames of derision a bit more byclaiming to be a prophet and then reminding His former townsfolk of some of the historical times where God's chosen was sent to someone outside of Israel, someone not of the chosen people!  He flat out says a prophet is honored everywhere but at his own home, and hometown.  

If the city folk had been ready to welcome Jesus back and give him the keys of the city, they quickly changed course and decided to just toss him off a cliff!  That was a pretty significant 180 degree change.   Both Mark and Matthew name this anger as "offense", and I think that is accurate.  The townsfolk were angry with His claims, angry about the fact that He hadn't done any miracles in their midst, angry that they had only experienced the quiet carpenter!  I would imagine that the faces of sick relatives or family members that had passed away during Jesus' 20 years in Nazareth were brought to mind; those that needed healing but weren't healed, all the prayers asking for help, asking for God's intervention that had seemingly gone unanswered, were all coming back to people's minds.  I can just see the accuser, launching salvo after salvo of accusation against Jesus, and the people were in total agreement... they had been overlooked, cheated, and ignored!  

In the very face of all of that Jesus then says, "A prophet is not without honor except in his own town and in his own home.”  Yikes!  

No wonder they wanted to toss Him off a cliff!

The question this morning is how this relates to my life?  What impact should this story have on me?

The First thing that comes to mind, is the danger of familiarity, to the point of judgment and labeling.  Jesus had done nothing remarkable, and the people had labeled Him, "Only a carpenter".  They had no room in their minds and hearts for Him to do more!   One wonders how many of us have constructed a "box" of expectations that tries to limit what God can do?  If someone ever steps out of that then it can't be of God!  

Similarly, one could see a level of jealousy in action, where the people of Nazareth were angry that God hadn't chosen to do anything miraculous in their midst, despite the fact that the "Messiah" had lived there .  One wonders how many of us are a little angry that God isn't moving in our churches, yet we hear about Him doing things other places?  We get our 'undies in a bunch', when someone tells us that they have experienced the very move of God we have hungered for through the years!  Or we think, ah those people are weird, and are probably making stuff up, and can't be trusted!  The only way I will accept that its God is if He does it here, the way I want Him to do it!  

Another example could be those who have prayed for years for God to do something, and have given up completely!  There is zero faith for God to do anything, as He hasn't answered prayers, hasn't apparently listened, despite the fact that we have faithfully gone to church all that time... its like God is purposely ignoring us!

We can get all out of alignment when we start listening to the accusations of the enemy.  We miss the very one who has been sent, who is moving in our midst, working all around us!  We get so 'butt-hurt' that we turn our backs on God!  We allow offense to drive us away from Him!  We take the unanswered prayers as evidence in our case against Him!  

Oh, that we would recognize the truth, and allow the Lord to love us, to touch us, to embrace us!  Oh, that we would refuse to listen to the accusations but rather choose to follow Him, knowing that our day will come, that He is moving!  I am reminded of a lovely set of verses from Paul's letter to the Romans 8:31-35,37-39 NIV:

[31] "What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? [32] He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all---how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? [33] Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. [34] Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died---more than that, who was raised to life---is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. [35] Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 

[37] No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. [38] For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, [39] neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Amen and Amen!

Fasting and Flexibility

This morning I felt led to read a few verses from Matthew's Gospel.  I so enjoy the familiarity of the Gospels and try to spend time in them every week, for in doing so I am able to understand a bit more of the ways of the Lord!  This morning the verses I am reflecting on are very familiar to me - Matthew 9:14-17 NIV:

[14] "Then John's disciples came and asked him, “How is it that we and the Pharisees fast often, but your disciples do not fast?” 

[15] Jesus answered, “How can the guests of the bridegroom mourn while he is with them? The time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; then they will fast. 

[16] “No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, for the patch will pull away from the garment, making the tear worse. [17] Neither do people pour new wine into old wineskins. If they do, the skins will burst; the wine will run out and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pour new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved.”

This morning as I read through these verses, I was reminded of one of the themes our pastor spoke on last week.  He was discussing the different streams of the Western Church, and talking about how we don't want to just align ourselves with one flow, as often times those flows will focus on one perspective at the expense of the other.  In general, the two he mentioned were the evangelistic focus and the charismatic focus.  

As I was reading through these verses this morning, I was reminded that the new wineskin for new wine relates to religious practice (fasting specifically), at least in the context of the verses this morning.  Ritual fasting was apparently a significant part of the Jewish "faith" at the time of Jesus' ministry.  John's ministry was one known for a fasted life-style (See Matt 3:1-6), and apparently the  Pharisees fasted regularly.  The difference between Jesus and the rest was obvious enough for John's disciples to ask the question of Jesus.

The question this morning is how these verses apply to our life and faith today?  What in our faith expression is similar to fasting, requiring a different approach, requiring flexibility?   

I am reminded of some verses from the Prophet Isaiah 58:5-7 NIV:

[5] "Is this the kind of fast I have chosen, only a day for people to humble themselves? Is it only for bowing one's head like a reed and for lying in sackcloth and ashes? Is that what you call a fast, a day acceptable to the Lord? 

[6] “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? [7] Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter---when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?"

In these and the preceding verses, God was addressing empty fasting, where the people went through the motions of fasting, but never really repented, or changed their hearts or lives!  Fasting is not supposed to be some empty religious activity, but rather God's perspective was that it should cause people hearts to turn towards Him, and the things He is concerned with. 

Fasting is not a big thing in many protestant churches, but I think we can expand the application of theme.  I believe the Lord is looking for heart engagement!  He is wanting a people who are pursuing Him with their hearts, minds and lives.  He is looking for those who pursue relationship over ritual!  The thing about relationship is that you can't turn it into rote behavior and practices!  

In our pursuit of Him, we often don't know exactly what to do, or what to say, so we look to practices that seem to help.  We know that generations before us have found God in the midst of liturgical expression, and that seems like a good place to start.  The issue is that liturgical expressions is that while pointing us towards God, they don't guarantee relationship, in fact, they can become our focus, rather than the one we are supposed to encounter, God Himself! 

Again, the question this morning is how should Jesus' words impact my life?

First, I think we must get back the core focus of relationship with God!  

He wants relationship with us!  He wants us to encounter Him, to hear His voice, to engage in life-changing conversations! 

He wants us to look past the common faith expressions we employ, realizing that there is more to our relationship with Him, than Sunday observances.

He is after changed hearts, and changed lives, and if our present engagement and expression isn't fueling these changes, then we should be open to some sort of change in our behaviour.

He is inviting us into real relationship where our lives are changed, not because of His rules, but because of our affection for Him. 

He wants a people that will represent Him to a world in need, and for us to do so, we need to understand His heart and encounter Him. 

He wants us to be flexible enough to break out of our comfort-zone, out of our daily or weekly regimen, to really encounter Him!

He wants us to care about the things He cares about!  

He wants hearts and lives engaged!

He has a NEW wine-skin for us.... are we willing to accept it?

Oh Lord, help me to embrace all that You have for me!  Help me to lay down my preconceived ideas about You, about church, about following You, that I might truly encounter You!  

Help me to allow for changes in my life, and my faith expression, that I might really know You!

Help me to better represent You to the world around me!

Amen and Amen!