We Cannot be Sinning Christians

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Imagine a convicted felon who has received a pardon, and the court has expunged his record. That person is no longer identified by his or her past crimes. If someone asks if they have ever been arrested, they can say “No.” And they can say this without being a liar because the record of their arrest and conviction has been expunged. What they CANNOT DO is choose to continue to engage in criminal activity. If they refuse to accept their new found position in society as a law abiding, free citizen, and instead choose to commit criminal acts, their continuing crimes will cause them to be arrested and convicted. And although their past crimes have previously been expunged, the prosecutor can use those past crimes to show a pattern of continuing behavior, and to ask the judge to enhance their sentence after conviction. That’s exactly what Satan wants to do to us.

1) Introduction

We live in a world where even those who claim to follow Christ have forgotten God’s command to “Be holy.” (1 Peter 1:16) Many churches have allowed the culture around us to dictate what is acceptable, instead of allowing God’s word and the Holy Spirit to guide.

To be honest, God’s people have always struggled with this in some way. Jesus recognized it among the Jewish religious leaders. Paul had to deal with it in his day, particularly in the Corinthian church. It has been this way throughout Christian history, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that the Church needs to address it today.

2) Following Jesus is more than saying a prayer

Not all who claim to follow Jesus are Christians. In Matthew 7:21-23, Jesus gives a very somber warning; that on judgement day there will be many who call out, “Lord! Lord! Look at all that we did in YOUR name!” Jesus’s response will simply be “Go away. I have no idea who you are.” Good works, even when supposedly done in the name of Jesus, are not a guarantee that we are following Him, especially when we have refused to obey his commands.

Matthew 13:24-30 warns that even among the righteous there will be those who claim to belong to Christ, yet in the end they will be uprooted, separated from the righteous, bound and thrown into the fire. Why?

3) Do you want to be defined by your sin, or by Jesus

What do you choose to define you? Your desires or Jesus? It’s pretty simple, those who do wrong will NOT inherit God’s kingdom. (1 Corinthians 6:9)

If we allow our sin to continue to define us, then have we truly repented? Too many people who claim to be Christians have accepted the lies of Satan under the fallacy that, “God created me this way, therefore I can’t (or don’t need to) change.” If I’m honest, I have to admit that I have tried to hide behind this lie. We mostly hear this argument from those in the LGBT lifestyle. However, before we condemn them, let’s take a look at 1 Corinthians 6:8-10.

“Instead, you yourselves are the ones who do wrong and cheat even your fellow believers. Don’t you realize that those who do wrong will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Don’t fool yourselves. Those who indulge in sexual sin, or who worship idols, or commit adultery, or are male prostitutes, or practice homosexuality, or are thieves, or greedy people, or drunkards, or are abusive, or cheat people—none of these will inherit the Kingdom of God.” (NLT)

Paul mentions several sinful behaviors here. Paul also mentions those who worship idols, thieves, the greedy, drunkards (we’d probably also include the drug users), abusers, and those who cheat people. Let’s make one thing clear, sexual sin is sexual sin. Too often I have witnessed Christians condemn LGBT, then in the very next breath they’re lusting after a member of the opposite sex. Many times these people are married. It’s still SIN.

How many times have we gotten angry and attempted to justify our lashing out at someone? Or maybe we’ve attempted to justify cheating others, or the government. Many attempt to justify greed by saying things like “God wants to bless us.” Thieves often claim they deserve what they’re stealing, because it’s owed to them. In Romans, Paul includes gossip in a similar list. How often have we participated in gossip, claiming that we’re “just sharing a prayer request”, or “passing on information.”

For every sin, we can create a multitude of excuses. While we all may have a tendency toward certain behaviors that God calls sin, we always have a choice. We can choose to lean into those tendencies, or we can lean into Christ.

Accepting the excuse that “I was born this way” to justify sin denies the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. Let me say that again, justifying any sin with the excuse that “this is just who I am,” or “God made me this way,” denies the power of the Holy Spirit to transform us.

4) God has called us to be HOLY

After going through this list of sinful behaviors, Paul continues in verse 11 reminding the Corinthians that some of them were once guilty of one of more of these sins. But now they are clean. Their records have been expunged. They have been made HOLY. They have been made right with God.

If we go down to verse 20, Paul reminds them that we were bought with a high price. That price was Christ’s death on a cross. So we must honor God with our bodies.

I go back to the example of the convicted felon who has been pardoned. He has a choice. And you and I have a choice. So I ask again, what defines you? Your sin? Or Jesus

5) Invitation

By His grace we can choose to ask for and accept His forgiveness, and receive the pardon that He is so eager to give us. We can choose to be identified as a child of God. Through the power of the Holy Spirit we can reject our tendencies toward sin and allow Him to guide us into a new identify in Christ Jesus.

YOU are invited to accept Jesus, and begin your relationship with Him. And you don’t have to wait for a church service. You can do it right now, wherever you are.

There are no magic words, or special prayer required. It’s simply acknowledging to God that we have sinned, asking for, and accepting, His forgiveness. Accept Jesus as Savior and Lord. Allow the Holy Spirit to guide you, and to change you.

Requiring ANY Religious Instruction in Public Schools is Wrong

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Recently, Louisiana passed legislation requiring the Ten Commandments to be posted in public schools. Shortly after, Oklahoma decided to require the Bible and the Ten Commandments be taught in public schools. And Christians across the country celebrated. I have no doubt that the governors of Louisiana and Oklahoma mean well. However, I must strongly disagree, even as a Christian.

Let me be clear, this nation WAS founded as a Christian nation. Even a casual reading of US history supports this conclusion. However, neither the state nor the federal government has the right nor the duty to favor one religion over another.

As Christians, we can not complain when any other religion is forced to be taught in public schools, then turn around and demand that Christianity or the Bible be taught in public schools. That’s hypocrisy.  We are the first to be outraged if any other religion is even offered as an elective in public schools. What are we going to say if a state with a large Muslim population forces the Koran to be taught in public schools?

I’m all for everyone having access to the Bible. I will even advocate it being freely available in the school library. But I have some questions: Who will be teaching the Bible curriculum? What qualifications will they have? What denominational or religious affiliation will these teachers have? Will they be teaching the Bible as literature? If so, will they also be teaching the Koran or the Torah as literature? Will the teachers be pushing one religious view over the other? These are just a few of my questions, and the answers may lead to even more questions.

One problem I see with forcing the Bible to be taught in public schools is, in my opinion, it shows how lazy we as Christians have become. We have become comfortable with leaving it to others to share God’s Word, even to our own children and grandchildren. Too many of us don’t even actually read and study the Bible ourselves. We’re content to go to church, send our children to Sunday school and children’s church, while we sit and listen to a sermon, allowing ourselves to be spoon-fed, without even reading what the Bible says for ourselves.

I am all for introducing children, and everyone else, to the Bible. But the more I have studied, and the more I have observed, even many pastors struggle to really understand the Bible in context. Again, this is partly because we have become complacent and are content to just read words on a page. We don’t have to learn Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic. But we do need to learn to use the available language tools. In addition, we need to learn to dig in and research the culture and people of the day when each book was written, as well as who each book was written to.

The Bible has too often been twisted to justify, and excuse, some of the worst offenses in society by too many so-called Christians, and pastors. Based on that reason alone, I simply cannot believe that we have the right to force the Bible, or our faith on anyone. And the government definitely does not have that right. All these actions will do its lead to a waste of resources by the government attempting to defend what I believe to be a losing position.

It’s not up to any government to force the Bible on anyone or any group. We don’t have to hide our faith. It’s up to each of us who professes to be a disciple of Jesus Christ to be a witness to the power and love of God. We start by living a life that is consistent with a loving God who has made a way for us to have a personal relationship with Him, through Jesus. Then, when the opportunity arises, we might need to use words to help.

Good Things Come to Those Who WAIT

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I found the word WAIT 73 times in the Bible (in the NLT).

Psalm 62:1 I wait quietly before God, for my victory comes from him.
Psalm 62:5 Let all that I am wait quietly before God, for my hope is in him.

I am not good at waiting. I definitely do not do well waiting quietly. But as I pondered this idea of waiting, I was reminded of Acts 1:4-5, where Jesus tells his disciples to remain in Jerusalem until they receive the promised gift of the Holy Spirit. In other words, WAIT.

Then in Acts 2:1-13 we read about what occurred when the Holy Spirit arrived on Pentecost.

Maybe, just maybe, there is a reason we have been told to wait. The irony of the timing does not escape me. We just celebrated the Resurrection of the Messiah, just as those disciples had.
Just as He had told them to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit, we wait and pray for a new, fresh filling of the Holy Spirit in this place, and at this time, for a new work to begin here.

Jesus Doesn’t Save Everyone

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I know, you read that title, and now you’re ready to argue. But, please hear me out. I’ve been wrestling with this for some time, and I believe it needs to be said. Not everyone who meets Jesus Christ is saved.

Refer to Matthew 19:16-22 for the story of the rich ruler (this is also found in Mark 10 and Luke 18).

This guy calls out to Jesus, “Hey! Good teacher! I want to know what I have to do to be saved.”

Jesus began reciting the ten commandments, “Do not commit adultery; do not murder; do not steal;…” The rich guy interrupts and says,”Yeah, yeah. I already do ALL of that. In fact, I’ve been doing all of that since I was a kid. So, really, what must I do?”

He wasn’t prepared for Jesus’s answer, “Yes, you have. But, you’re missing one thing. You must sell everything and give to the poor so that you will have real treasure in heaven. Then, come and follow me.” And the rich guy just turned and walked away, saddened, because he wasn’t just rich, he was very rich.

The rich ruler met Jesus. But because he cared more about his riches, Jesus wasn’t able to save him. Jesus will NEVER force you to accept him. God simply doesn’t work that way.

We see this attitude in so many ways today. People choose their lifestyle, their sin, their job, their status, etc… over what GOD says.

Some of us are sitting here today, and we’re thinking of certain individuals or groups that this applies to.  We grew up in church, or we have been saved and sanctified for so long that we’ve become petrified, and we’re just certain that we can’t be guilty of this thinking.

Sadly, I have to say that even many of us who have claimed to be Christians for a long time have become very adept at trying to twist the scriptures to excuse our own choices.

“Hey God, I know what your Word says, but hey, you know my heart, right? I mean, you don’t REALLY expect me to be able to change, and be obedient. After all, YOU MADE ME THIS WAY.”

I can hear The Father reply, “No. I created you to be perfect. But sin entered in and corrupted everything. However, I did make a way, through My Son, Jesus, to bring you back onto the right path. All you have to do is accept Him. Choose HIM as your Lord and Savior. And my Holy Spirit will guide you, and give you the ability to be obedient.

Jesus can’t save those who refuse to accept Him. He only saves those who choose Him. He already chose each and every one of us. We can choose to walk away sad and even heartbroken. Or, we can choose to follow Jesus.

Which do you choose?

The Fire may Appear to be Out, But Beware Smoldering Embers

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About 8 months ago, I had to make the painful decision to mostly step back from ministry for a time. Something just wasn’t right. I felt burned out, and knew that my relationship with Christ was severely lacking. I was so busy trying to do ministry, work full-time, and take care of a bunch of little things that I had neglected my “Jesus time.”

Someone pointed out to me that I had lost my fire. As much as that hurt to hear, I already knew it was true. I started trying harder to prove to myself, and others, that I want giving up. The more I tried the worse it got. Finally, the even more painful realization was that I had lost my confidence. And I started to wonder if I really had heard God’s call to preach. Or worse, had He given up on me? I was starting to give up on myself, so I totally understood if God gave up on me, especially after failing so much.

Through a few people, God has reaffirmed His call. He has made it clear that He has not given up on me. A few weeks ago, God reminded me that although the fire may appear to be out, the embers are still smoldering. My fire may be out, but the embers are still smoldering.

As I have pondered this realization, I was reminded of the fire triangle. The basic elements for a fire are oxygen, fuel, and heat. I think the fire tetrahedron (oxygen, heat, fuel, chemical chain reaction) is most taught today to firefighters. I render learning both as a volunteer firefighter, a long time ago. In any event, remove any one of those elements and the fire dies. We’ve all observed this when watching a bonfire, a charcoal grill, or a fireplace. As the fire begins to burn out we add more fuel to keep it going. If we want it to go out, we stop adding fuel, and may even pour water to cool the smoldering embers.

Under the correct conditions the smoldering embers will do one of three things:

1) They can be completely extinguished, and the fire is completely done. There is no risk of spontaneous combustion.

2) More fuel can be added, along with oxygen, and the fire grows.

3) Finally, this one every firefighter dreads. If conditions are right, and the smoldering embers are inside a tightly closed and unventilated building, if oxygen is suddenly introduced, the smoldering embers, combined with the fresh abundance of oxygen can become what is known as a backdraft.

These are very basic explanations. I don’t know if they would let me pass the test today, but it’s been 30 plus years since my training.

I’m not sure if I’m smoldering for lack of fuel or lack of oxygen. What I do know is that I’m still smoldering. But I’m adding fuel. I’m spending more time with God. He hasn’t given up on me. He hasn’t released me from His call. But for now, I have to focus more on my relationship with Him. I have to be prepared to experience either a backdraft or to simply have the fire reignite.

I thought marriage was suppose to be permanent

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I was discussing this idea of marriage being a permanent commitment the other day when I had a thought. Ephesians 5:21-33 came to mind.

In this passage, we find instructions to husbands and wives what it takes for a marriage to work. The key appears to be found in the word “submit.” Verse 21 kicks off this passage with the command to submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.

Bottom line: It takes both people submitting to each other and to God.

I’ll bet you’re thinking that there is no way I am going to bow down and submit to anyone. But please hear me out. Also, please read the passage for yourself in its entirety.

Back to this word, submit. Most people, especially men, are very familiar with verses 22 and 23, where wives are told to submit to their husbands, and the husband is the head of the wife. But, men, did you actually read all of those two verses? Wives are told to submit to their husbands as to the Lord. And that the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church.

Now, a little further on, we see what all this really means. Guys, are you truly willing to love your wife as Christ loved the church? Are you willing to give up your life for her? You see, gentleman, you need to give your wife a reason to trust you enough that she will feel safe submitting to you.

Wives, can I ask, are you respecting your husband? Do you behave in a way that helps them to trust you so much that they are encouraged and willing to love you as Christ loved the church? Do you encourage him? Do you pray for him?

So we are back to this idea of submitting to each other. What exactly does this mean? Well, I’m glad you asked, because I have a few ideas. Pray for each other, and pray with each other. Communicate. This means talking to each other. Work together to come to solutions to problems. Be faithful. Lift each other up. Look for opportunities to show love. Encourage each other. Make your home a safe and loving environment.

Submitting to each other does NOT mean accepting abusive behaviors. Abuse, of any kind, should never be tolerated or accepted. The same goes for unfaithfulness. These are unacceptable behaviors. They have no place in any relationship. And they definitely have no place among God’s people. Nowhere in scripture do I find a command to remain in such situations.

Finally, in verse 33, we read that each man must LOVE his wife, and the wife must respect her husband. So give each other a reason to love and respect each other.

Bottom line: It takes both people submitting to each other and to God.

We Remember

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I would love to give proper credit for this picture.

Where were you 21 years ago today?

As we remember the horrific scenes, and as we mourn the lives lost, from the attacks on our nation 21 years ago, can we also remember that in the days that followed we didn’t identify as White, Black, Hispanic, Native American, Asian, male, female, straight, gay, Christian, Jew, Muslim, Hindu, rich, poor, Republican, Democrat, and whatever other ways we have become divided. No, in spite of our differences, we came together as Americans.

Can we do that again? Can we tell the politicians, the media, and the rest who continue to work to divide us, to take a long walk off a short pier? Can we once again reach out to our neighbors, look past our differences and work together?
Can we admit that just maybe it begins with each of us. Maybe it begins with me.

Lately I have been continually reminded of 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NLT)
Then if my people who are called by my name will HUMBLE THEMSELVES and PRAY and SEEK MY FACE and TURN FROM their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.

This is just one verse of a longer passage where the Israelites have been warned of the cost of turning away from God. May I be so bold as to point out that it doesn’t say that everyone should pray. It doesn’t call on politicians to turn away from their wicked ways. This is a command for GOD’S PEOPLE, those of us who profess to believe in and worship the living God. WE are called to humble ourselves. WE are commanded to pray. WE are commanded to seek the face of our Creator. WE are commanded to turn from our wickedness.

It starts with us. It starts with me.

Thoughts and Prayers…

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Thoughts and prayers seems like so little. But I can’t go hug the families and friends of victims of the recent shootings. I wasn’t there to be able to try to stop the bad guys. My ability to actually be able to respond personally to these tragedies is limited. So yes, unfortunately, all I have to offer is prayer.

I pray for the survivors, for the families, the communities. I pray for God to provide comfort, strength, and healing. And although it feels like too little, too late, prayer is still more powerful than we know.
I wonder, have we who claim to be Christians forgotten the power of prayer? Have we become lax in our prayer lives. I’m preaching to myself right now, too.

We are told to pray without ceasing, yet the reality is that we turn to prayer only after something bad happens. If we truly desire a change in our communities, in our nation, in our churches, and in our lives, it begins and ends with prayer. To be sure, action will be required of us. But, we must also re-learn the apparently lost art of prayer. We must learn again to, in the words of an old Petra song, get on our knees and fight.

Gospel Shoes

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Link to watch

Ephesians 6:15 (NLT) For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. (Or For shoes, put on the readiness to preach the Good News of peace with God.)

How many of you all run around bare foot, or maybe you just wear flip-flops? There’s nothing wrong with that, but I can’t stand them. I also hate not having shoes on. About 19 years ago I was introduced to a website called Fly Lady. She helps encourage Sidetracked Home Executives, or SHEs. Typically this may be a mom, but can also be a dad. One of the baby steps is getting dressed to your shoes. Why? Because when you have your shoes on, and tied, you’re more likely to do the chores around the house that need to be done. I have found this to be true for myself. Not wearing shoes makes it easier to put off getting things done, (household chores, run errands, even taking a walk).

Today’s Bottom Line is: Get dressed to your shoes.

1) Find peace with God

Romans 10:9-10 tells us that “If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved.” (NLT)

We have to have this peace with God before we can do anything. It should be one the most important things we hold onto. If we don’t have peace with God, it is unlikely that we will have true peace with anyone.

I came across a person on tiktok who goes by the name “theformerthings”. This man’s testimony is awesome. He came out of a lifestyle that was totally against God’s will; A lifestyle where he allowed sin to define him. In one of his recent videos he shared his struggle and temptations. But he ended by saying that his peace with God was so much more important than anything else. We should all have this kind of commitment to our relationship with God.

Let’s try to get a mental picture of the Roman military caliga. It was a vital part of the Roman soldier’s equipment. It was an open toed, light sandal that went partway up the soldier’s leg. How high up it went depended on the soldier’s rank. The higher up the leg it went the higher the rank. These shoes also had to be thick enough to protect the soldiers’ feet as they marched over rough terrain. The bottoms were embedded with spikes to ensure a good grip even on slippery ground. These shoes protected the soldiers’ feet, and shins, and the spikes helped to ensure that the soldier was able to keep a solid footing, and stay standing upright.

2) Stand against the enemy

The Roman soldier wasn’t responsible for the entire battleground. He was only responsible to defend his position; the square where he was standing. The same thing goes for us. We have to hold our position. And the enemy is always ready to attack. He may bring up our past, bring financial difficulties, he’ll interfere in our relationships. But our task is to stand firm in the battle.

Romans 16:20 reads, “The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. May the grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.” (NLT)

Remember those spikes on the Roman soldiers’ shoes? They had another very important use. As the soldier marched across the battlefield, they would stomp on enemy soldiers who had fallen down, pretty much ensuring their deaths. Do your shoes have spikes in them to crush the enemy, and to stand firm in the battle?

3) Share Jesus

Are you ready to share the Good News of Jesus Christ? l have two verses I want to share for this point.

The first verse is Romans 1:16 (NLT) “For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes—the Jew first and also the Gentile.”

Paul wasn’t afraid to share the Gospel. The guy on tiktok isn’t ashamed to share the Gospel. How about you? Are you looking for opportunities to share?

The second verse is Romans 10:15 (NLT) “And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent? That is why the Scriptures say, ‘How beautiful are the feet of messengers who bring good news!'”

Consider yourselves sent. We have all been sent to share the Gospel.

The shoes of the Gospel enable us to be ready to stand firm, hold our ground, and also be ready to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Bottom Line: Are you Dressed to your shoes? Are you dressed to the Gospel?

 

We are God’s Crown Jewels

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Click here to watch video

Summer of Psalms
Psalm 8

We are continuing our Summer of Psalms series. Something I like about the Psalms is there is a psalm for every emotion. The Psalms cover joy, praise, sadness, sorrow, anger, wonder, awe, victory, defeat, and everything in between. You name it there is pretty much a psalm that deals with it.

I want to share why this Psalm is special to me. It’s my Grandma Staten’s fault. I don’t remember exactly what year, but somewhere between 2nd and 5th, Grandma was in charge of vacation bible school. The theme song that year was This is My Father’s World, and creation was the overall theme. For the VBS program at the end of the week, Grandma wanted me to memorize and recite Psalm 8:3-9. I figured I could just read it. No one would know. The pulpit was large, and no one could see what was on it except the person standing there. Grandma and I argued even up to Sunday afternoon. Let me be clear, Grandma won the argument.

This is the first Bible verse I recall memorizing, other than John 3:16, or John 11:35 (Jesus wept).

Psalm 8 is a psalm of David. Depending on the Bible version the introduction to Psalms 8, 81, and 84 says that it is to be played on the gittith, which is derived from the Hebrew word “Gath”. Gath may refer to where the giant, Goliath was from, or a type of stringed instrument from Gath. Gath also signified a winepress in Hebrew. The psalms mentioning the gittith called for an animated music.

O Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
Your glory is higher than the heavens.
You have taught children and infants
to tell of your strength,
silencing your enemies
and all who oppose you.
When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers—
the moon and the stars you set in place—
what are mere mortals that you should think about them,
human beings that you should care for them?
Yet you made them only a little lower than God
and crowned them with glory and honor.
You gave them charge of everything you made,
putting all things under their authority—
the flocks and the herds
and all the wild animals,
the birds in the sky, the fish in the sea,
and everything that swims the ocean currents.
O Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth! (NLT)

Psalm 8 is often used to remind us of our duty to care for the earth, and all of God’s creation. Psalm 8 is one of several creation Psalms, including 19, 29, and 104. Bonheoffer says that Psalm 8 praises God’s name, and his gracious act to humans as the crown of His work. Today I want to focus on verses 3-5, and remind us that we are God’s crown jewel in His creation.

Bottom Line: We are the crown of God’s creation.

1) God created the entire universe.

Genesis chapters 1 and 2 tell us the story of creation. God created everything. The sun, moon, stars, plants, animals, fish, everything from the simplest element, and single celled organism, to the most complex molecules, and the most complex life. And at each stage, as He spoke each thing into existence, God called it good. The light was good. Land and seas were good. Plants were good. The sun, the moon, and the stars were declared good. Fish and birds were good. Finally, he created the animals and called it good.

There is a video on YouTube that helps explain the relative size of things in the universe. Click here to watch just the first 5 minutes. (Or watch the entire video, if you like.)

Do you feel insignificant now that you’ve watched the first five minutes of that video? Have you ever looked up at the night sky, and wondered what is out there? Does it ever make you feel small, and insignificant? I will admit to being just a little bit of a science fiction geek. And I sometimes wonder, did God create life on some distant planet, in another galaxy? Does it matter, though?

2) Even in our apparent insignificance, God has crowned us and given us authority.

The very last thing God created was humans. Genesis 1:26 tells us that God said “Let us make human beings in our image….” Only after creating humans, did God look at everything and call it very good. (Genesis 1:31) And the verses in between 26 to 31 tell us that He gave us authority. We have the authority to use the resources of His creation.

Verse 6 of this Psalm reminds us that He has put everything under our authority. That means ALL of creation. We are still exploring, and learning about just planet earth. And we have barely begun to explore just outside our own planet, and our galaxy.

Invitation:

Hebrews 2:6-8 refers back to Psalm 8:4-6.
And furthermore, it is not angels who will control the future world we are talking about. For in one place the Scriptures say,
“What are mere mortals that you should think about them,
or a son of man that you should care for him?
Yet for a little while you made them a little lower than the angels
and crowned them with glory and honor.
You gave them authority over all things.” (Hebrews 2:5-8a)

This is also a Christological Psalm, because it also refers to Christ, the Messiah. Hebrews 2 continues, beginning in the second part of verse 8 that we don’t yet see everything under our authority. But what we do see is Jesus Christ, who was briefly made a little lower that the angels, suffered and died for us, and he is now crowned with glory and honor.

We are so important to God, that even after we have sinned, deserving death, and permanent separation from God, He still made a way to redeem us, and He still calls us to Him today.

We truly are the crown jewel of His creation.

Do you know Him?

Journey to Justice – the woman accused of adultery

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What comes to mind when you hear the word, “justice”?
We keep hearing the word “justice” thrown around, “social justice,” “criminal justice,” people demand “justice.” Usually what we really want is justice for everyone else, but mercy for ourselves.

What if I told you that God’s justice doesn’t always look like OUR justice?
Some quick background for our passage: The day before, the Pharisees and priests had sent the Temple guards to arrest Jesus, but they came back empty. The Pharisees and leading priests were angry. They are looking for anything, any way to trap Jesus.

Jesus returned to the Mount of Olives, but early the next morning he was back again at the Temple. A crowd soon gathered, and he sat down and taught them. As he was speaking, the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in the act of adultery. They put her in front of the crowd.
“Teacher,” they said to Jesus, “this woman was caught in the act of adultery. The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?”
They were trying to trap him into saying something they could use against him, but Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dust with his finger. (John 8:1-6, NLT)

I wonder what Jesus wrote. He knew what they were scheming. Maybe He was writing, “Where’s George?” After all, IF she really was caught in the act, it takes two people to commit adultery. Where is the guy?

Let’s continue. After all, our lawyers and Pharisees are getting impatient now.

They kept demanding an answer, so he stood up again and said, “All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!” Then he stooped down again and wrote in the dust. When the accusers heard this, they slipped away one by one, beginning with the oldest, until only Jesus was left in the middle of the crowd with the woman. (John 8:7-9, NLT)

Again, what was Jesus writing? Maybe He listed their names, starting with the oldest: Samuel, David, Jeremiah, Joshua…. Then next to their names, maybe He began listing their sins:
Samuel: lust, greed, lying
David: stealing, pornography
Jeremiah: adultery, gluttony
Joshua: drunk, gossip, fornication
And on down the list.

Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, “Where are your accusers? Didn’t even one of them condemn you?”
“No, Lord,” she said.
And Jesus said, “Neither do I. Go and sin no more.” (John 8:10-11, NLT)

Motive of the accusers

These religious lawyers and Pharisees were trying to trap Jesus. If Jesus had declared the woman innocent, the Pharisees could claim that Jesus didn’t really care about following the Law. If He declared that she was guilty, and pronounced the death penalty, or stoning, they could claim that Jesus was undermining Roman rule. They didn’t care how they did it, they just wanted to trap Jesus, because they didn’t like what he said.

They were so intent on trapping Jesus, they were willing to twist what the Law said. It’s also quite possible they were lying about catching the woman in the act.

What can we learn from this today? Even today we see people who are ready, eager even, to accuse someone of some heinous act. Politicians, and the media, have been calling out other politicians for years. Sometimes the accusations are factual, often not so much, or they are without context. We have seen this happen in the workplace, and sometimes even in our courts. Sometimes, even among fellow Believers. Before we make an accusation against someone, we need to be aware of our own true motives. Are we really seeking justice, or revenge?

What did the Law say?

Leviticus 20:10 reads: If a man commits adultery with his neighbor’s wife, both the man and the woman who have committed adultery must be put to death. (NLT)

And in Deuteronomy 22:22 we read: If a man is discovered committing adultery, both he and the woman must die. In this way, you will purge Israel of such evil. (NLT)

Notice first that BOTH guilty parties are to be put to death. Not just the woman. Also, stoning is not even mentioned here. Stoning is mentioned for very specific instances, but not in the case of adultery.

But twisting the Law, and God’s Word to suit one’s own agenda is really nothing new. It shouldn’t even come as a surprise. In Genesis 2:16 God had told Adam that he could eat the fruit of every tree in the garden, except one: the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. But when satan showed up as a snake, to tempt Eve, the first thing he did was to twist God’s words. In 3:1 the snake asks if God really said that they couldn’t eat the fruit of ANY of the trees in the garden.

It is definitely NOT God’s justice we are seeking when we twist the law, or God’s words, or twist facts.

Jesus’s response

To the accusers – Jesus knew what was in their hearts. He had absolutely no desire to participate in their nasty scheme. I am pretty certain that His response was not what anyone expected. It almost looks like Jesus gives the Pharisees what they want. After all, the law only required that the facts be established by two or three witnesses (Deuteronomy 19:15). He even appeared to accept their stated method of punishment. BUT, He threw a curveball into their scheme. He said that the first stone must be thrown by someone who had never sinned. Even the accusers knew that they couldn’t claim to be sinless. And one by one they left. They were looking only to condemn. I doubt that mercy was even a consideration for them.

To the accused woman – This woman seems to have been a minor part of the story. I am almost certain that to her, she was, or should have been, the central character. After all, she was the one accused, and facing death by stoning. She wasn’t even given a chance to declare her innocence; or if she was guilty, to plead for mercy.

FINALLY, Jesus looks at her, stands up, and asks “Where are your accusers? Didn’t even one of them condemn you?” And she says, “No, Lord.” Jesus replies that He also will not condemn her. And He tells her to go, and don’t sin anymore. Jesus knew her heart as well as He knew the hearts of her accusers.

God’s justice is tempered with mercy.

Now, what comes to mind when you hear the word, “justice”?

Bottom Line: Because of Christ, we can trust God’s justice.

I Miss My Time With You

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord’s feet, listening to what he taught. But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, “Lord, doesn’t it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.”

But the Lord said to her, “My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10-38-42, NLT)

Martha was distracted. She was distracted with preparing dinner for her guests. If she was around today, she might also be distracted by social media, and TV. In any case, she was not focused on what was most important. Now what she was doing, preparing dinner, and presumably wanting it to be special for everyone, isn’t wrong. But she was missing the fellowship and the joy of visiting with her guests.

How many of us today, are distracted? Do we even realize it? Are we allowing all the duties and distractions of the day to interfere with our spending time, and fellowshipping with God?

Pastor Mark Wilson, in his book Filled Up, Poured Out, writes, “Their prayer saturated lives reveal this important truth: You cannot live well unless you pray well. Godliness is the fruit of deep, frequent and fervent praying. He was commenting on the biographies on the biographies of some more modern heroes of the faith, like Corrie ten Boom, David Brainerd, and others.

And in Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, Jim Cymbala, pastor of the Brooklyn Tabernacle, which started out as just a tiny church with barely any members, said, “We are not New Testament Christians if we don’t have a prayer life.”

I shared these previous two paragraphs a few years ago. I have to confess, I have not done well at living out what I am about to preach. I have not been who I have appeared to be. I have not been the man who God has called me to be because I have fallen short of the time I spend with Him. In fact, it is partly because of this that I have felt led to bring this message. Like Martha, I have frequently been so distracted by everything around me that I have forgotten what is really important; Fellowship with, and learning from, my Lord.

I took my title from a song by Larnelle Harris:

There he was just waiting, In our old familiar place
an empty spot beside him, where once I used to wait
To be filled with strength and wisdom, for the battles of the day
I would have passed him by again, If I didn’t hear him say

I miss my time with you, Those moments together
I need to be with you each day, and it hurts me when you say
you’re too busy, busy trying to serve me
but how can you serve me, When your spirit’s empty
there’s a longing in my heart, wanting more than just a part of you
it’s true, I miss my time with you

As I look at the Church in general, and those of us who call ourselves Christians, I see far too many who are Christians in name only. Too many are unable to discern the truth from the lie because we are not spending time with God, and that includes spending time studying His Word, as well as in prayer.

Spending time with God is how we learn Truth.

We need to become like the Bereans in Acts 17:11. And the people of Berea were more open-minded than those in Thessalonica, and they listened eagerly to Paul’s message. They searched the Scriptures day after day to see if Paul and Silas were teaching the truth. As a result, many Jews believed, as did many of the prominent Greek women and men. (Acts 17:11-12, NLT). They verified what Paul and Silas were telling them was true.

We must study the scriptures diligently. We must be certain that what is being preached is in harmony with God’s Word.
I also see far too many so called pastors and teachers who are spreading false gospels, and twisting God’s word to say whatever supports their particular view, or desire.

I see and hear two primary false gospels today: There is the prosperity gospel, which has twisted God’s word into some sort of God owes you riches, and if you send us money, God will make you rich, scheme. And the so called progressive Christianity which completely twists God’s Word and reinterprets the Bible so that even what God calls sin is suddenly not sin.

In both cases, the falsehoods are often so subtle that if we are not familiar with God’s Word, it almost makes sense. Satan is great at twisting God’s Words. He has been doing it since the Garden.

If we look back at Genesis 3:1, right off the bat he twists God’s command to Adam and Eve, about what trees they are allowed to eat the fruit from. God Had told them that they could eat the fruit from any tree except the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Satan approaches Eve and asks “Did God really say you can’t eat the fruit of any of the trees?” And he has been doing it ever since.

Here is one way to be able to tell if a statement is true or false. If a statement is only partly true, then the whole statement is false.

To be able to do spiritual battle, we must be so familiar with God’s word that we recognize attempts to twist it.

Spending time with God recharges us.

Elijah had just won a great victory over the prophets of baal, yet in 1 Kings 19 we find the prophet of God depressed, and even fearful. He is told to stand on the mountain before the Lord. A great wind came, but the Lord wasn’t in the wind. This was followed by an earthquake, then by a fire. God was not in those either. But then, Elijah heard a gentle whisper, and he went out and stood at the entrance, and heard a voice saying “What are you doing here, Elijah.” We must regularly spend time with God so that we won’t miss it when He whispers.

Even Jesus had to get away, and spend time in prayer, talking to the Father. In Mark 1:35 we read that even before daybreak one day Jesus got up and went out to an isolated place to pray. Again in Mark 6:44, we find Jesus going up into the hills by himself to pray. Even the Messiah needed to recharge. How much more so do we need to spend time alone with the Lord?

Spending time with God is how we do Spiritual Battle.

In Daniel 10, Daniel is describing a vision he had. This man Daniel saw in his vision speaks to him and in tells him, “Don’t be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day you began to pray for understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your request has been heard in heaven. I have come in answer to your prayer. But for twenty-one days the spirit prince of the kingdom of Persia blocked my way. Then Michael, one of the archangels, came to help me, and I left him there with the spirit prince of the kingdom of Persia.” (13, NLT)

In Mark 9:14-29 we are told about a man bringing his son to Jeus to be released from a demon. The disciples had already tried to free the boy, but without any success. After Jesus casts out the demon, and he and the disciples are alone, they ask Him, why they weren’t able to successfully cast out the demon. And in verse 29, Jesus tells them that that kind of demon can only be cast out by prayer.

The final verse I want to share is Revelation 3:20. Jesus is giving John a message to the church at Loadicea. They had become stale. They thought they had it all. But in fact they had become like a lukewarm drink, which would cause a person to vomit. After his warnings, Jesus gives this invitation: “Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in and we will share a meal together as friends.”

This invitation is for everyone. It’s for those who are still seeking, those who are new believers, those who have been with Jesus Christ for years. And everyone in between.

I want to do something different for an invitation. I want to read the second verse and the chorus to the song…

What do I have to offer, how can I truly care
my efforts have no meaning, when your presence isn’t there
but you will provide the power, if I take time to pray
I’ll stay right here beside You, and you will never have to say…

I miss my time with you, Those moments together
I need to be with you each day, and it hurts me when you say
you’re too busy, busy trying to serve me
but how can you serve me, When your spirit’s empty
there’s a longing in my heart, wanting more than just a part of you
it’s true, I miss my time with you

I leave you with this challenge: Let’s finish 2020, and begin 2021 in daily fellowship with God. And let’s make 2021 the year that we grow spiritually more than we ever have.

Prayer for election: Spiritual Warfare

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

We did something a little different today at church. All 4 members of our preaching team shared a short homily and prayer for the upcoming election. I started off with spiritual warfare. Click here to view today’s service. I share below what I shared this morning.

In Daniel 10, Daniel talks about being visited by a man who says that he started to come to Daniel when Daniel gadd started praying in regards to a vision he had. it took the man 3 weeks because he was blocked by the spirit prince of Persia. And he actually needed help from the archangel Michael, to complete his mission to get to Daniel. A little later he mentions the spirit prince of Greece. Ther implication is that these spirit princes are evil. I don’t think it’s far fetched to suggest that there is an evil spirit prince of the United States (or any other nation).

For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. (Ephesians 6:12 (NLT))

God’s first concern is not what’s going on in the White House. It’s what’s going on in HIS house. (Dr. Tony Evans)

The challenge we face isn’t about the depravity of the wicked. The great challenge we face is the indifference of the faithful. (Pastor Allen Jackson)

I share these two quotes to say this: The United States was founded as a Christian nation. We have been very blessed, even in spite of our sins and shortcomings. We use to recognize and honor God. But we have forgotten that. We are a nation in turmoil. President Reagan said, “If we ever forget that we are One Nation Under God, then we will be a nation gone under.” As I step back, and review history, especially the history of my lifetime, I fear we have forgotten that. We seldom, if ever, realize that we are in a spiritual battle. And there is only one way to fight, and win, spiritual battles; on our knees.

Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land. (2 Chronicles 7:14 (NLT))

Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. (Ephesians 6:18 (NLT))

Church, it is OUR duty and responsibility to pray for our nation. We truly are under spiritual attack as a nation and as Christians, men and women of God we must begin to do battle together, on our knees, in prayer for our nation, for each other, and as Cheryl will talk about, for our government.

Father, we lift our nation in prayer today. As we vote this week, help us to vote with your principles and values in mind. And help us, as your people, continue to pray for our nation, and our neighbors. Help us to remember that ultimately, you have the final say, And that our hope is in you. Amen.

What Does it Mean to be a Sheepdog?

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

Lately, as I have become more concerned with protecting my church, and especially our people, I’ve been reaqcuainting myself with what it means to be a “sheepdog.” It’s often attributed with being a protector. And I’ve been contemplating this word today, and I wondered if it wasn’t more than just being a protector. So after I got parked I did a very quick search. I found that sheepdogs can be divided into two broad categories: Herding and Guardian. I also found that sheepdogs are often raised around the sheep so that a bond is created. The sheepdog guides the sheep according to the commands given by the shepherd.

Just my own simple observations, and thoughts. We often refer to pastors as shepherds. But maybe pastors should be referred to as sheepdogs. We already have a shepherd, Jesus Christ. Herding sheepdogs help shepherd to move the flock along, get them to go where they need to go. Guardian sheepdogs help to protect the flock from predators. Pastors serve their congregation in at least one of these roles.

As herders, pastors help to lead people to the Shepherd. They also help to lead them to where they can find spiritual food and drink. Pastors help guide people along the path of spiritual growth, and also provides admonishment when needed to help correct a wayward member to bring him or her back into the fold.

As guardians, pastors help to warn people of spiritual dangers. They may at times even be called on to do spiritual battle on behalf of someone.

Of course this idea of being a sheepdog certainly isn’t limited to pastors. I think as each of us grow in our faith, we will find ourselves called to help guide a fellow believer along. Or we may be called on to warn another of spiritual danger, to keep the wolves away.

I’ve spent much of my life learning to be a guardian sheepdog in a physical sense. Even as I continue to learn how to do that role, I realize that the most important part if being a sheepdog is the spiritual guidance and protection. And in any event, the only way to be an effective sheepdog is to be in obedience, and submission, to the Shepherd.

Jesus in the Wilderness

/ CD Hamman

Jesus in the Wilderness: A Time of Preparation & Testing

Matthew 4:1-11, Luke 4:1-13


Jesus had just been baptized by John the Baptist, the Holy Spirit descended on Him, and God declared that Jesus is His son, and He is pleased with Him. Then we read that the Holy Spirit led Jesus to the wilderness to be tempted. Jesus has a mission to begin. All missions require preparation.

Bottom Line: Am I prepared & ready?

Talk to any current military member, or veteran. Almost all will tell you that the 8 weeks they spent in basic training were some of the toughest weeks of their lives. In hindsight, they are thankful for the preparation, training in the tools and skills that they will need for their survival. However, they would not volunteer to do it again.

1) The wilderness is a time of preparation.

Almost every task requires preparation. Sending people into the wilderness to prepare them wasn’t exactly a new concept to God. Moses was in the wilderness tending sheep when God called him. God used the wilderness wanderings to prepare the Israelites to enter the Promised Land. And now, God was sending Jesus into the wilderness to prepare Him for His ministry.

Jesus didn’t just sit around, and wander aimlessly about. Jesus’ response to being sent in to the wilderness was to fast. Prayer, and meditating or studying the Scriptures is a large part of fasting. Of course Jesus didn’t have a cell phone handy, with a neat Bible app, and all the research tools that we often rely on. He likely didn’t even have any written copy, or portion, available to him during this time. He had to rely on His knowledge and previous studies to meditate on scripture.

Sometimes God sends us into the wilderness to prepare us for an upcoming ministry. Admittedly, sometimes we send ourselves, but I think our response should be the same. When we find ourselves wandering in the wilderness, we need to learn to fast and pray.

Fasting is a physical act of obedience, and physical obedience brings spiritual release. Think of Moses and the Israelites’ battle with the Amelakites. Moses was told to keep his hands raised. Lets not forget Esther’s response when Mordecai told her that she needed to talk to the king about Haman’s evil plot to destroy the Jews. She began with prayer and fasting. I would also point out that every great revival began with prayer and fasting.

2) Testing often comes during, as well as after, the preparation.

Mark barely spends two verses on this time. But, in 1:12-13, Mark tells us that, “The Spirit compelled Jesus to go into the wilderness, where He was tempted by Satan for forty days.” So we know that Jesus didn’t simply rest, and study. Even as He was preparing for His ministry, He was being tested. Likewise, when we are in the wilderness, preparing, we too can expect that tests, and battles, will arise.

Jesus was tempted in every way just as any other man. Though, we know that He was no ordinary man. He never gave into the temptations. What was His secret? It’s almost so simple that we often miss it. Prayer and fasting, along with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures are what lead to spiritual victories when the testing, and the battles come.

Are you making time to pray? Are you making time to study the Scriptures? When I visited at First Wesleyan in Nashville, Pastor Lorrie said something that stopped me almost in my tracks. “If you’re not praying, you’re not fighting.” And Scripture is our weapon.

Some of the most serious warriors I know are little old ladies, praying for their children, grandchildren, neighbors, their pastors, and others. Men and women fighting on their knees in prayer have resulted in countless spiritual victories. I have no doubt that I am here today because of the prayers of others. I have seen miracles because people were fighting the battles on their knees in prayer.

Also, as I said, Scripture is our weapon. In the three temptations mentioned, how did Jesus respond? He responded to each temptation with Scripture. I want to point out something that I suddenly realized as I was preparing for this sermon. Often we just look at the outside of these temptations: bread, protection, bowing down to satan in exchange for power. But if we look deeper, look at exactly what satan says: “If you really are the Son of God…” Satan was attacking Jesus in His pride. He was trying to get Jesus to respond out of selfish pride. But Jesus knew the Scriptures, and the Father, so well, that he never took the bait.

How well do you personally know the Scriptures? Are you simply letting the preachers spoon feed you? Or are you delving into the Bible throughout the week? Getting to the meat of a passage? The devil knows the Scriptures so well, that he can attempt to twist them. Do you know them well enough to use them to defeat the devil?

If we are to be battle ready, and victorious, we must spend time in prayer and fasting, and in studying the Scriptures.

3) God provides care during and after the battles.

Mark tells us that even while Jesus was out among the wild animals the angels took care of Him. Matthew says that the devil went away, then the angels came and took care of Jesus. Of course this isn’t the only place where we see God providing care after the battle.Even after his victory on Mount Carmel, Elijah became depressed. God provided food and rest for him.

I think this is important to note, even while we are in the wilderness, maybe even feeling sorry for ourselves at times, God still takes care of us. We may not understand while we are in the wilderness, but God still cares for us, and the Holy Spirit is watching over us, encouraging and guiding us.

Bottom Line: Am I prepared and battle ready for my mission and ministry?

Am I Really Dead to Sin?

/ CD Hamman

Romans 5:20-6:18
Something has been running over and over in my mind that I have found disturbing. Even more disturbing was that, upon reflection, I found myself somewhat in agreement with this particular thinking. It is often used to make someone feel less guilty about sin, almost like a way to excuse the sin, and it goes something like this: Well, God knows how I am, and that I can’t help it. Besides, He’ll forgive me. He always does.
Let that sink in a minute… We just flippantly expect God to accept our excuses for sin, even when we intentionally sin.
I have applied to have my felony record expunged. In speaking with my attorney a few weeks ago, I found out that specific signatures must be obtained in order for the judge to consider expunging my record, including the DA, and the local police department who arrested me. Even if all required signatures are received, the Judge can refuse to expunge the record if he feels it best serves the interest of justice, or public safety.
Bottom Line: Am I dead to sin?
1) The Law EXPOSES our sin (5:20a)
God’s law was given so that all people could see how sinful they were. (NLT)
If there is no law written down, then there is no crime. For something to be considered illegal, the specific act must be written down, and the elements of the crime must be described. For a drug to be illegal, its chemical composition must be specified in the law as being illegal. Rapidly changing technology has made things very difficult in some cases, as those who seek to do harm seek out new ways to avoid detection.
Before God gave a law, there was no sin. However, once He told Adam and Eve not to eat the fruit from a specific tree, there was a law. Once they violated that, sin entered the world, and it rapidly became anything goes, so long as my wants and needs are met.
God’s law allows us to see just how sinful we are. If you haven’t dealt with the criminal justice system, when you hear the word “conviction,” you may think of it in terms of what you might have heard in church. “She’s under conviction,” meaning that the Holy Spirit is dealing with her, and calling her to repentance. But it is so much more than that. In legal terms, a person under conviction refers to someone who has been convicted of violating the law. It’s the same with the person in church who is under conviction. God has found them guilty of violating His law.
2) Grace COVERS our sin (5:20b-21)
But as people sinned more and more, God’s wonderful kindness became more abundant. So just as sin ruled over all people and brought them to death, now God’s wonderful kindness rules instead, giving us right standing with God and resulting in eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. (NLT)
Now that our sin has been exposed, what are we to do? Even while we were still sinning, God the Son, Jesus, came, and fulfilled the law, paid the penalty for sin with His own life, and breaking the hold that sin had on us. Through His resurrection, He broke the hold that death had over us.
Back to this word, “conviction:” in an earthly court, upon a person being convicted, the court imposes punishment. However, when we are convicted before God, in His undeserved grace, He calls us to repent, and accept His grace and forgiveness, because He does not want us to be separated from Him. He wants us to spend eternity in fellowship with Him. If we accept His grace, because of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, we have a right standing, and a right relationship with God.
Before I was eligible to request a pardon from the governor, I had to complete the punishment that had been imposed on me by the court. Then, I had to also prove, through my behavior, and obedience to the law, that I might deserve forgiveness. And even then, the Pardon and Parole Board could have denied me. Even after they recommended me to the governor, the governor could have rejected my plea, and denied my request. Then I have to request the court to expunge my record.
Compare that to God. Even while we are still sinning, God reaches out to us, and offers to forgive us, and to expunge the record.
3) Holiness REPLACES our sin (chapter 6)
Well then, should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more kindness and forgiveness? Of course not! Since we have died to sin how can we continue to live in it? (vv 1-2, NLT)
So since God’s grace has set us free from the law, does this mean we can go on sinning? Of course not! Don’t you realize whatever you choose to obey becomes your master? (15-16) Now you are free from sin, your old master, and you have become slaves to your new master, righteousness. (18)
I received my pardon last March. And this past Friday, my attorney called me to let me know that the judge had signed the order to expunge my record. Two acts of grace from the state that I am so very thankful for. And I know without a doubt that God was at work, and made it happen.
Now, imagine that I commit another crime, even after the grace and forgiveness that the state has granted. As I am standing before the court, I look at the judge, and I say, “Your Honor, I couldn’t help it. It is just the way I am wired. You know how it is. I just wasn’t able to resist my desires. But I know you’ll forgive me again.” How do you think the judge is going to respond to that? Then after being convicted, I apply for another pardon. How do you think the members of the Pardon and Parole Board will respond? Likely, the request wouldn’t even make it to the governor.
And yet, so often, we act in ways that are flagrant violations of God’s law, and we make those same excuses. “Well, God, I just couldn’t help it.” “I know I shouldn’t have cussed that person out, but you know how my temper is.” I know I shouldn’t be gossiping, but, well God, it started out as a just a prayer request for someone, and I just had to get all the details.”
Remember, God forgives us even while we are in sin. In the Bible, Jesus always met people right where they were. He met their need, healed them, and then told them to stop sinning. Today, the Holy Spirit still meets us right where we are. God calls us from our sin, and He still tells us to sin no more. We are called to holiness. He doesn‘t tell us to try to be holy. He tells us to be holy, because He is holy. But he doesn’t leave us alone to figure it out. The Holy Spirit is always with us, always calling, always guiding us; IF we listen. Too many times we pray “lead us not into temptation,” as we continue to walk right into it, knowing full well what is going to happen. We are no longer slaves to sin. We are dead to sin. The old lifestyle no longer fits us.
We need to ask ourselves, “Am I just playing at being a child of God? Or am I truly dead to sin, and alive in Christ?
Romans 6:23 says that the wages of sin is death, but that God’s free gift is eternal life through Christ Jesus.

The Hope of Christmas

/ CD Hamman

Video here

Isaiah 9:6-7 & Acts 1:9-11

I am really starting to think that the NFL is scripted, just like WWE, and other “reality” television shows. Every year, Cleveland Browns fans believe this could be the year we finally go to the Super Bowl. We have talented players, and a couple years ago, we got Baker Mayfield. We are anxiously waiting to see the Browns flag planted on the 50 yard line in Pittsburgh. And every year, we are met with disappointment. I suppose that may be how Michigan fans feel against Ohio State each year. Or Oklahoma State most years after Bedlam. But at the beginning of the season, we all have one thing in common: HOPE.

What is “hope?” Merriam-Webster’s online dictionary gives these definitions:

A. Desire accompanied by expectation of, or belief in fulfillment. (Hope for a cure.)

B. Someone or something on which hopes are centered. (Mayfield is the Browns hope for a Superbowl championship.)

C. To cherish a desire with anticipation. (hope for a promotion)

D. To desire with expectation of obtainment or fulfillment. (I hope Messiah comes soon)

Bottom Line: Are we staring, or are we striving?

Do we have just a little bit of hope, and we’re standing still, just staring off into space, looking for Jesus? Or is our hope so deep that we KNOW He is coming back, so we are working to live a life that honors Him, and that lets us share Him with the world around us?

1. There was hope in the beginning.

Most of us know the creation story. God created the world, and everything in it. Then, finally He created man and woman. They could eat from any tree, except one, the tree of knowledge of good and evil. And He warned them that if they eat that one fruit, just one little bite, they will die. And what happened? The devil came in the form of a snake and tempted Eve, by twisting God’s words. She fell for it, hook, line and sinker. Then the first thing she does is gives Adam the forbidden fruit. And now they realize what they have done.

After the fall, God first pronounces judgment, and a curse on the serpent. And even before pronouncing judgment and punishment on Adam & Eve, God pronounces the first Gospel promise.

Genesis 3:15 reads “And I will cause hostility between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring. He will strike your head, and you will strike his heel.” (NLT)

This is the very first glimpse of the promise of Messiah. There will be one who will come and strike Satan’s head, and crush him.

Another example of early hope is found when God called Abram, in Genesis 12:1-3. The Lord had said to Abram, “Leave your native country, your relatives, and your father’s family, and go to the land that I will show you. I will make you into a great nation. I will bless you and make you famous, and you will be a blessing to others. I will bless those who bless you and curse those who treat you with contempt. All the families on earth will be blessed through you.”

And there are still more examples of the hope of the coming Messiah, throughout the Old Testament, including God’s promise to David that his descendant would always be on the throne.

2. Hope is fulfilled in Jesus part 1

Isaiah 9:6-7 reads “For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for all eternity. The passionate commitment of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies will make this happen!” (NLT)

Israel longed for the coming Messiah. The prophets had been promising a Messiah. The people were looking for One who would make things right. When Jesus was born, he fullfiled that promise. His birth, His life, His death and resurrection, was the fulfillment of the prophesies. Sadly, not all have recognized that Jesus Christ is the Messiah. He did not come in the way that they thought the Messiah should come. Indeed, there had even been others who had claimed to be Messiah, who were great disappointments. And some who should have recognized Jesus as Messiah, the religious leaders, refused to accept Him.

But God knew what was going to happen. Jesus knew it too. It was necessary for Jesus to die on the cross, taking our guilt upon himself, and paying the price for our sin. His death paid our penalty. His resurrection, that dealt the final blow to death, and satan. That first Gospel promise was fulfilled.

3. Hope will be finalized in Jesus part 2

I want to read Acts 1:6-8, to kind of set the scene: So when the apostles were with Jesus, they kept asking him, “Lord, has the time come for you to free Israel and restore our kingdom?” He replied, “The Father alone has the authority to set those dates and times, and they are not for you to know. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:6-8, NLT)

I noticed something funny as I read this account of Jesus’ ascension. In Acts 1:6 we are told that when the apostles were with Jesus, they kept asking Him when He was going to free Israel and restore their kingdom. They are still looking for an earthly kingdom. Of course Jesus tells them that only the Father has the authority to set those times, and they are not for the apostles to know.

After saying this, he was taken up into a cloud while they were watching, and they could no longer see him. As they strained to see him rising into heaven, two white-robed men suddenly stood among them. “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why are you standing here staring into heaven? Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return from heaven in the same way you saw him go!” (Acts 1:9-11, NLT)

I get it. They have just spent all this time traveling with, and learning from, Jesus. They have witnessed His execution, and His resurrection. They think they have Him back. But, He just left them again. Even weirder, He just was taken up into a cloud. I think I’d be looking up, straining to see Him, and trying to explain it, myself.

But as they are standing there, straining to see Him, two guys dressed in white robes appear and give them the promise that all hope, will be finally realized when Jesus comes back. Wait, so He’s coming back? Oh yes. And this time, we know what to look for. This time he will be coming back on a cloud. And this is confirmed throughout the New Testament.

And when He returns, all will be made right. We who have accepted Him as Lord and Savior will be with Him forever. The peace that we so desperately hope for will be finally realized. And we will again have full fellowship with God.

But, while we are waiting for His second advent, we should be striving to live according to His commands. Not to be saved, but because He has already saved us. We are also to spread the Gospel, the Good News, of Jesus Christ.

Even as we strive to grow in our relationship with Christ, are we sharing the Good news with our neighbors? Are we sharing Jesus with those we meet?

Bottom Line: Are you staring or sharing?

Even as we look forward to the future fulfillment of our Hope, our hope is also realized here and now, in the work of Jesus Christ, the Messiah. What is the source of your hope, this Christmas?

There is an old hymn, written in 1834, by Edward Mote, The Solid Rock. The first verse states: My hope is built on nothing less Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness. I dare not trust the sweetest frame, But wholly trust in Jesus’ name.

The last verse reads: When He shall come with trumpet sound, Oh may I then in Him be found. Dressed in His righteousness alone, Faultless to stand before the throne.

Will you be able to stand before His throne? Will your family, friends, and neighbors?

When Life Sucks Count Your Blessings

/ CD Hamman

Video here.

Do you ever get so frustrated and discouraged that you are ready to explode? And you just can’t seem to see any way out. Maybe you feel like God has abandoned you, and you have no hope left. And then along comes some well meaning but obviously clueless person who has the audacity to tell you that “All things work together for good” (Romans 8:28). Of course this time of year they feel compelled to quote 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “No matter what, always be thankful.” While I do believe that, how in the world can I be expected to be thankful when I am so spiritually or emotionally wounded that I’m ready to give up?

I think the song “Count Your Blessings” had some pretty solid advice.

1) Acknowledge the hurts, the unfairness, the trials and tribulations.

Acknowledge it to yourself, as well as to God. Be honest, and even blunt about what what you’re feeling. So often we try to hide, even from ourselves, exactly what we’re feeling and thinking. We have this strange notion that we have to tiptoe around God. Like we have to only say certain words, and we can’t tell him how we really feel. Look God already knows what we’re feeling and thinking. Stop trying to lie to God. He’s a pretty big, and I promise, he CAN handle the truth.

2) Listen, to the Holy Spirit, and to yourself.

Listen to your rants, and your feelings, and your thoughts. But also listen for the gentle whisper of the Holy Spirit as He reminds you of the blessings that God has given.

Slowly, you’ll find yourself moving from crying out about all the wrongs, to recounting each blessing.

3) Counting our blessings doesn’t change the circumstances; but it does change us.

Our outlook will change from feeling that life sucks, to finding our hope in Christ. We remember who were belong to. God restores our strength.

No. You’re not going to find the phrase “Count your blessings” in the Bible. But we see it at work throughout the Bible. The Psalms are some of the most obvious. Psalm 103:2 reads “Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things he does for me.” (NLT) The ESV reads “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.”

Throughout the psalms we see raw emotion, and yet even in the pain and anger, the writers find praise, and remember God’s blessings, either on themselves, or on Israel.

Bottom Line: Even when life sucks, count your blessings.

When the storms are raging, when everything bad seems to hit at once, when it seems as though others are blessed and Good has forgotten you, and you have reached the point you’re ready to give up, count your blessings.

Bring Them to Jesus

/ CD Hamman

Video here.

Matthew 11:28-30

The world, our world, is in chaos. Everyone around us is dealing with something: sickness, death, homework, dating issues, rape, not being notices, depression, suicide, feeling inadequate, and feeling lost. In a word, they’re weary. We live in a world that is burdened. As I was substitute teaching this week, I spent Thursday subbing for a high school drama teacher. In the course of the day, I was privileged to get to watch the students rehearse their one act play for a drama competition. This play served as inspiration. You see, it’s not even just sickness, then homework, then depression… It’s sickness AND homework, AND depression, AND dating, AND…. And people are looking for an escape; and rest. And sometimes even WE, who call ourselves Christians, or believers, are burdened, and weary, and maybe even worn down. What is the answer to all of this? It is NOT found in our cell phones, that we seem to keep our faces buried in.

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30, NLT)

JESUS is the answer. He was the answer 2,000 years ago, and He is still the answer today. So, if Jesus is the answer, why don’t more people know Him? Maybe we aren’t doing our job and telling them. Are we sharing our stories? We need to take our testimonies outside of the church, and share them with the world.

But how do we share Jesus with a world that doesn’t know, or maybe even doesn’t want to know, they need Him? Some people have been deeply hurt by church. Some have never been in a church. Many see the Church as just another example of organized religion run amok. Some blame God for the problems in the world. And yet, these people are still empty inside, and they are trying anything to fill that void. Sometimes, they recognize that a spiritual world does exist, and they seek to fill that emptiness with ghost-hunting, the occult, or attempts to communicate with the dead. Others turn to drugs or alcohol, dangerous activities (for an adrenaline rush or to feel fear, just to feel something). Some turn to sex. And most frightening, most personal, to me is that some, when the emptiness and the pain, become so overwhelming, nothing else has worked, and the depression kicks in to high gear, some seek suicide. The answer, Jesus Christ, is so close, and they don’t know all they have to do is call His name. What do we do? How do we introduce the people around us to the ONE who can save them? How do we introduce the ONE who’s yoke is easy, burden is light, and who provides rest?

We have to earn that privilege. And it is a privilege, and a responsibility, to share Jesus with those around us. I am going to use an acronym to help us. Back in February, during our evangelism series, one of our sermons was on being salt and light. In Matthew 5:13 Jesus says “You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor? Can you make it salty again? It will be thrown out and trampled underfoot as worthless.” (NLT). You might remember the qualities about salt that were mentioned: it operates internally, it is necessary for life, it has a distinct taste, it is a preservative, and it creates thirst. You might have guessed, I am using the acronym, S.A.L.T. (By the way, I got the idea for using the SALT acronymn from the drama teacher).

1) Start a conversation
Take time in the checkout line to say, “Hi.” Look for opportunities to reach out, and talk to someone.

2) Ask questions
Ask someone how their day is going. Ask open-ended questions that encourage them to talk. Ask questions to find out what interests you may share.

3) Listen
Listen to what they are saying. Listen for clues that may provide insight. Listen to their joys, their triumphs, and their concerns. Listen to get to know them, not simply to respond. Listen to their story.

4) Tell your story
Share your testimony. Remember your two minute testimony. Tell them what Jesus has done for you. Share how Jesus has eased your burdens, and helped you to find rest in Him.

So be SALTy. It may open the door to new friendships. Or help current friendships grow. As we have learned before, it may take some time for someone to respond to the Gospel message. The church is not supposed to simply exist. We have been commanded to be salt, and light, and to take the Good News to the ends of the earth. For some of us, that may be right next door, across the street, or across the country, or around the world. But the bottom line is the same: If not us, who will tell our weary, troubled, over-burdened world where they can find the rest that they desperately long for?

Do you know Jesus Christ? Do you know the one who provides rest? Are you sharing Him with others, especially your friends? Who do you know who needs to find rest in Jesus? Who can you invite friend day?

Stewardship: Touch – What About the Least of These?

/ CD Hamman / Leave a comment

Video is available here.

Matthew 25:40

While doing some training this week, I met with a deputy who has worked there at the county jail since I had. As we were talking, our discussion inevitably turned to one of today’s issues and concerns, violence and mental health. The deputy shared a story from his time as a firefighter, before joining the sheriff’s office. The fire department had been called out to respond to an older man who fallen and split his head open. When they arrived, they found a mobile home that was not in good shape. Upon entering the home, they observed that the floor had rotted away to the point that the cabinets had fallen through, and there was a “walkway” made up of a couple pieces of 2×4. Much of the home was covered with trash that was piled up, almost to the ceiling. And their patient was refusing treatment, in spite of his head being split open. What they discovered was that this man lived alone, he didn’t go anywhere, and no one came really came by. He spent his time drinking, and basically just gave up hope.

Shortly after this call, my friend and another firefighter began to regularly visit this older man. As they did, they noticed that things slowly began to change. The man started to drink less. He began to slowly clean up the trash inside, and get rid of it. He also began to fashion new cabinets, and do what repairs he could to the floor. Basically, He needed human contact. He needed to know that he matters.

“And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!’ (Matthew 25:40 NLT)

Through the use of technology, we are more connected today than at any time in human history. And yet, in many ways, we are much more alone, and disconnected from each other than at any time in human history. I consider myself blessed to have friends, across the country, who I can call upon to talk to, and even pray with me. And they know that they can reach out to me at any time, to talk or pray. But because of the distance between us there is one thing missing; that is the ability to actually touch each other, through a hug, or a handshake. So we try to improvise with “virtual hugs.”

And, they do help to convey that someone cares. They do bring some comfort. But, sometimes, we just need to feel that embrace. We need to feel that hand upon our shoulder, and hear someone remind us that we are not alone. Of course, I am also fortunate that I have friends right here who I can call upon to talk to, pray with, and fulfill that need for a hug, or a handshake, even just a quick pat on the shoulder to remind me that I am not alone. And they know, at least I hope they do, that they can reach out to me.

Studies have shown us that people need touch. One early, controversial, study involved the use of rhesus monkeys. The baby monkeys were separated from the mother at birth, and given the option of two inanimate surrogates. One was covered in cloth, and the other was simply wire and wood. Even when the only one with a bottle of milk was the one of wire and wood, the baby monkeys preferred the embrace of the cloth surrogate. Touch is as necessary for emotional and physical well being as are food and water.

Imagine going through each day with limited human contact. That is the reality for many in our society today. Some who may deal with this include inmates, especially those who are held in solitary confinement, and the only human contact they have is when the officer passes their food tray, or when they are handcuffed to be moved; truck drivers who are often out on the road for weeks, or months at a time, separated from their family so that we have food, gas, cars, and other material things; the elderly, and the sick, who may be unable to get out; and I would even include the homeless, who we often don’t even look at as we drive down the road. I would venture to say that there are also others, who may nbot fit in any of these categories, but who for whatever reasons, feel alone, and forgotten.

Bottom Line: How can I touch others?

The answer I am going to give is found in Matthew 25:35-40.

1) Food and water (verse 35)

This doesn’t have to be anything elaborate, or expensive. It could be as simple as a sandwich, or a bottle of water.

2) Hospitality / Fellowship (verse 35)

This doesn’t always mean bringing a stranger into your home, though it might. That word that we translate as stranger, can also be translated as immigrant, or traveler. How are we at welcoming the stranger, or the immigrant into our church? Maybe instead of simply handing someone a sandwich, you could invite them in and share a meal with them. Talk with them.

3) Clothing (verse 36)

Look, it is unlikely that you will encounter someone running down the street naked. But, do you have any clothes that you could donate to a homeless shelter, or bring some here for our give and take table? But don’t just stop at donating. Offer to take someone who needs clothes to get them. If you can, volunteer at a place that helps to provide clothes

4) Visit (verse 36)

Find someone to spend a little bit of time with. Maybe it will be someone in a nursing home. It might be a person in jail, or prison. Maybe you know someone who is homebound.

Bottom Line: Who can you touch today?

Of course, don’t forget a hug, or a handshake; or at least a pat on the shoulder, just to remind them that they are not alone. Something that all of these ideas have in common is that they also require your time. I didn’t dwell on that this morning. But time is another resource that God has given us, that we are supposed to be stewards of. What better way to spend some of that than by actually showing Jesus’ love to others.