by Wesley Blackburn
As I sit and get ready to write this post, I just have to laugh. If there's been one passage of Scripture rolling around in my mind and heart recently, it is actually from 2 Timothy 2. The words here definitely carry a lot of weight. Obviously, they're the words of Scripture, so that makes them important in and of themselves. But there's something interesting about 2 Timothy; it is believed to be the final letter that Paul ever wrote (at least that we have and know of today). Paul was writing to Timothy, a young man (probably in his late teens or early to mid twenties) who had trained under Paul for a long time and had become one of Paul's most trusted friends and ministry colleagues. Paul knew the date for his trial before the Roman emperor Nero was coming, and that that could very well be it for him. So, before potentially dying, Paul wanted to make sure he left his best friend Timothy some words of wisdom.
And that's what we have here... Paul's advice to Timothy on how to be a servant of God. It all comes to a summary in verse 15: Paul asks Timothy to do everything in his power to present himself before God as one who did the job given to him and handled the message of God's truth with care.
But I'm also struck by something else in this chapter. Paul spends a lot of time asking Timothy to remember things that he already knew about Christ. That Christ is resurrected, that Christ died for us, that Christ gives us our salvation. Our identity is found in Christ. When we keep Him and His promises at the forefront of our minds, everything else has a way of falling into place. I think that's the biggest thing I take from Paul's words here; we need to keep Christ at the center. That's when we know we are good soldiers of Christ.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
87. The Love of Money (1 Timothy 6:3-21).
by Wesley Blackburn
So, in Bible college, I had this professor named Steve Yeaton for a class called Intro to Ministry. Basically, it was this freshman-level course that talked about random pastoral stuff... how to do a wedding or funeral, good basic tips for pastoral counseling, how to do pastor taxes (yeah, exciting stuff) and that sort of thing. But Professor Yeaton had a really witty sense of humor, and I'll never forget one day how he told our class that a guy only gets into ministry for two things: chicks and money. We laughed pretty hysterically (I can assure you, as a pastor on staff at Suncrest, I have neither chicks or money in abundance... just in case you were wondering).
I think everyone kind of makes jokes like that about money. I don't know that I have ever had a conversation with someone where they said, "Wes, I just have more money than I know what to do with!" That just doesn't happen. But some people let that lack become a real driving force for them. They do everything with money in mind. We probably have all known a person who has seen their life wrecked by a continual greed and desire for more and more money. Just as Paul says in this letter, the love of money truly is the root of all evil. When money consumes us, we'll destroy anything in our path to get more and more stuff. And the cruel irony that Paul observes is simply that we don't get to take our stuff with us when we die anyway (1 Timothy 6:7). We're literally spinning our wheels for something that's here for a moment and then... POOF! It's gone.
But I also don't want us to go too far to the extreme and say the wrong thing here, either. Paul says that the love of money is the root of all evil. Money itself is not. I really like what Dave Ramsey has to say on this issue. He compares money to a brick. In itself, it's neutral. It's what we do with it that makes it good or bad. We can use a brick to do something bad, like break a window or destroy someone's property. But we can also use a brick to do something great, like build a home or a hospital. The same is true with money. We can use it for terrible things, like purchasing so much junk we don't need putting us into deep debt, or we can use it for great things, like giving to someone in need, giving to our church, or providing for our families.
As Christ followers, I believe that God wants us to be people who are driven by a deep desire to use what God has given us in the greatest way possible to make a difference in the world that He would be proud of. So if you've got money, great! Don't hoard it... use what you need and give the rest away. You're not going to hold onto it for long anyway. And if you're like me, where you don't have a ton of money, don't fret! God will continue to provide for us (read Matthew 6 if you don't believe me). Let's just make sure we aren't driven by a desire to gain more and more for ourselves.
So, in Bible college, I had this professor named Steve Yeaton for a class called Intro to Ministry. Basically, it was this freshman-level course that talked about random pastoral stuff... how to do a wedding or funeral, good basic tips for pastoral counseling, how to do pastor taxes (yeah, exciting stuff) and that sort of thing. But Professor Yeaton had a really witty sense of humor, and I'll never forget one day how he told our class that a guy only gets into ministry for two things: chicks and money. We laughed pretty hysterically (I can assure you, as a pastor on staff at Suncrest, I have neither chicks or money in abundance... just in case you were wondering).
I think everyone kind of makes jokes like that about money. I don't know that I have ever had a conversation with someone where they said, "Wes, I just have more money than I know what to do with!" That just doesn't happen. But some people let that lack become a real driving force for them. They do everything with money in mind. We probably have all known a person who has seen their life wrecked by a continual greed and desire for more and more money. Just as Paul says in this letter, the love of money truly is the root of all evil. When money consumes us, we'll destroy anything in our path to get more and more stuff. And the cruel irony that Paul observes is simply that we don't get to take our stuff with us when we die anyway (1 Timothy 6:7). We're literally spinning our wheels for something that's here for a moment and then... POOF! It's gone.
But I also don't want us to go too far to the extreme and say the wrong thing here, either. Paul says that the love of money is the root of all evil. Money itself is not. I really like what Dave Ramsey has to say on this issue. He compares money to a brick. In itself, it's neutral. It's what we do with it that makes it good or bad. We can use a brick to do something bad, like break a window or destroy someone's property. But we can also use a brick to do something great, like build a home or a hospital. The same is true with money. We can use it for terrible things, like purchasing so much junk we don't need putting us into deep debt, or we can use it for great things, like giving to someone in need, giving to our church, or providing for our families.
As Christ followers, I believe that God wants us to be people who are driven by a deep desire to use what God has given us in the greatest way possible to make a difference in the world that He would be proud of. So if you've got money, great! Don't hoard it... use what you need and give the rest away. You're not going to hold onto it for long anyway. And if you're like me, where you don't have a ton of money, don't fret! God will continue to provide for us (read Matthew 6 if you don't believe me). Let's just make sure we aren't driven by a desire to gain more and more for ourselves.
Monday, September 27, 2010
86. Elders and Deacons (1 Timothy 3:1-16).
by Wesley Blackburn
Based on outward appearances, there's not a whole lot very flashy about this passage. As a pastor and Bible college student, I get to hear a lot about people's favorite Bible verses and things about Scripture that inspire them, and I don't recall anyone ever saying, "Hey, you know the passage that talks about elders and deacons? 1 Timothy 3? Yeah... that's definitely my favorite part of the Bible."
But despite its lack of flash, I think that this passage gives us some important considerations. Namely, that God really values leadership, especially within his church. In laying down the things that qualify a person to serve as an elder or deacon in the church, Paul really pushes people toward something great. He pushes them to go above and beyond the call in many ways. To me, this shows that God doesn't just want us to slip by, especially if we are wanting to be leaders in His body. In fact, God calls us to something far greater as leaders. The whole "be above reproach" idea is strongly communicated here. God wants us to be people that are far beyond being even one bit close to being dragged down accusations that might haunt us!
Reading this passage also just makes me thankful to get to serve with such great leaders at Suncrest. We've got some great people serving on our staff, and some even better people in our church who serve as elders and leaders. We've been truly blessed with people who have stepped up to the plate and done such a great job casting direction and vision for our church, serving faithfully, and boldly following wherever God leads!
Leadership is important. 1 Timothy 3 encourages me to keep aspiring to be a better leader, and it also makes me thankful for the great leaders that we already have at Suncrest!
Based on outward appearances, there's not a whole lot very flashy about this passage. As a pastor and Bible college student, I get to hear a lot about people's favorite Bible verses and things about Scripture that inspire them, and I don't recall anyone ever saying, "Hey, you know the passage that talks about elders and deacons? 1 Timothy 3? Yeah... that's definitely my favorite part of the Bible."
But despite its lack of flash, I think that this passage gives us some important considerations. Namely, that God really values leadership, especially within his church. In laying down the things that qualify a person to serve as an elder or deacon in the church, Paul really pushes people toward something great. He pushes them to go above and beyond the call in many ways. To me, this shows that God doesn't just want us to slip by, especially if we are wanting to be leaders in His body. In fact, God calls us to something far greater as leaders. The whole "be above reproach" idea is strongly communicated here. God wants us to be people that are far beyond being even one bit close to being dragged down accusations that might haunt us!
Reading this passage also just makes me thankful to get to serve with such great leaders at Suncrest. We've got some great people serving on our staff, and some even better people in our church who serve as elders and leaders. We've been truly blessed with people who have stepped up to the plate and done such a great job casting direction and vision for our church, serving faithfully, and boldly following wherever God leads!
Leadership is important. 1 Timothy 3 encourages me to keep aspiring to be a better leader, and it also makes me thankful for the great leaders that we already have at Suncrest!
Friday, September 24, 2010
85. The Supremacy of Christ (Colossians 1:1-23).
by Wesley Blackburn
I sincerely believe that there is no decision that a person can make that is more important than the decision a person makes about Jesus.
I say that for a couple of different reasons. Number one, I think the Bible teaches us that the decision of what we do with Jesus has ramifications for our eternity. But secondly, I think that a decision to say that Jesus is the Son of God and is more than worthy of me following Him will force a fundamental change in the way we live our lives. All of a sudden, we find the motivation to be more loving. More forgiving. More compassionate. More joyful. More peaceful.
Colossians 1 contains one of the most important statements about who Jesus is. Paul tells us here that He is the very image of God Himself, and all things were created through Him. All the fullness that lies within God the Father can be found in Jesus. He is supreme over all things and in all things (a great reminder, especially when we walk through difficult times in life).
But quite possibly, the greatest thing that Paul says about Jesus in this passage is that He is active member in the ministry of our reconciliation. We were once enemies of God because of the terrible choices that we made; we disobeyed His commands, chose to do our own thing our own way, and overall, just chose to say "no" to whatever it was God asked of us. But through Jesus, we have been reconciled with God. No longer is this a relationship on rocky terms... it is a relationship filled with the incredible love of God for us! The all supreme, all knowing, all-powerful God chooses relationship with us. We never have to worry if He is on our side... we know that He is always working things together for those who love Him.
I sincerely believe that there is no decision that a person can make that is more important than the decision a person makes about Jesus.
I say that for a couple of different reasons. Number one, I think the Bible teaches us that the decision of what we do with Jesus has ramifications for our eternity. But secondly, I think that a decision to say that Jesus is the Son of God and is more than worthy of me following Him will force a fundamental change in the way we live our lives. All of a sudden, we find the motivation to be more loving. More forgiving. More compassionate. More joyful. More peaceful.
Colossians 1 contains one of the most important statements about who Jesus is. Paul tells us here that He is the very image of God Himself, and all things were created through Him. All the fullness that lies within God the Father can be found in Jesus. He is supreme over all things and in all things (a great reminder, especially when we walk through difficult times in life).
But quite possibly, the greatest thing that Paul says about Jesus in this passage is that He is active member in the ministry of our reconciliation. We were once enemies of God because of the terrible choices that we made; we disobeyed His commands, chose to do our own thing our own way, and overall, just chose to say "no" to whatever it was God asked of us. But through Jesus, we have been reconciled with God. No longer is this a relationship on rocky terms... it is a relationship filled with the incredible love of God for us! The all supreme, all knowing, all-powerful God chooses relationship with us. We never have to worry if He is on our side... we know that He is always working things together for those who love Him.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Beyond Sunday - Journey: Worth it?
...by Bobby Jackson
Well, it has all come down to this. For the last several weeks we’ve been encouraged to identitfy, pray, respond in love, and to partner with what God is doing in the local church. Quite a good buzz especially this week about the power of a simple ask.
What draws me personally is having something worth asking people to. In my case I have two things: Suncrest and who Jesus is.
I am proud to invite people to know the people and culture of Suncrest. It is unlike anyplace I have ever been. I find myself getting genuinely jazzed about what we do here and it overflows when I talk with others about what we do or invite them to “come and see” or “kick the tires”. I think one of the most powerful influences for Christ is an authentic Christian community.
And of all the things I could give my life to or help others know about, helping people understand the crazy love of Jesus overwhelms me. When I begin to explain it or talk about what it looks like in my simple life, I am blown away at the magnitude of His grace and love. Getting started in the conversation is sometimes hard for me, but talking about God’s extreme love flows once it gets started.
What seems worth it to you? What are you willing to risk talking about? How much do we believe that Jesus really is who He said He is? Reflecting on that compels me/us. I pray it is a fruitful week as you and I look to invite our “one” to take a step toward a relationship with Jesus.
By the way, someone reminded me this week to not make a big deal about inviting our friend to Suncrest so that they don’t feel like they were just a project or a score for you…seemed like a good reminder.
Will your “one” be here this week?
Well, it has all come down to this. For the last several weeks we’ve been encouraged to identitfy, pray, respond in love, and to partner with what God is doing in the local church. Quite a good buzz especially this week about the power of a simple ask.
What draws me personally is having something worth asking people to. In my case I have two things: Suncrest and who Jesus is.
I am proud to invite people to know the people and culture of Suncrest. It is unlike anyplace I have ever been. I find myself getting genuinely jazzed about what we do here and it overflows when I talk with others about what we do or invite them to “come and see” or “kick the tires”. I think one of the most powerful influences for Christ is an authentic Christian community.
And of all the things I could give my life to or help others know about, helping people understand the crazy love of Jesus overwhelms me. When I begin to explain it or talk about what it looks like in my simple life, I am blown away at the magnitude of His grace and love. Getting started in the conversation is sometimes hard for me, but talking about God’s extreme love flows once it gets started.
What seems worth it to you? What are you willing to risk talking about? How much do we believe that Jesus really is who He said He is? Reflecting on that compels me/us. I pray it is a fruitful week as you and I look to invite our “one” to take a step toward a relationship with Jesus.
By the way, someone reminded me this week to not make a big deal about inviting our friend to Suncrest so that they don’t feel like they were just a project or a score for you…seemed like a good reminder.
Will your “one” be here this week?
84. Rejoice In the Lord (Philippians 4:4-9).
by Wesley Blackburn
To me, Philippians 4:4-9 is one of the passages in the Bible that has the most to say to how I live my life and to provide the peace that God wants us to have through Jesus Christ. Paul's advice here has an incredible bearing upon our lives and I know that if we apply what Paul says here, it could totally revolutionize the way our lives look.
For me, though, the biggest thing we learn from this passage is the importance of us not worrying. Worry is an absolutely destructive force in our lives. When we worry, stress, fret, and fear, we can feel like we are living an absolutely miserable life. Things fall apart. Every waking moment is spent thinking about what is going wrong or what could go wrong. It is rough. It's also consuming.
Paul advises, though, instead of us worrying, we should pray. We need to come to God first with our problems, with our issues, and with the things that are weighing us down. Paul assures that when we pray, we will discover an incredible peace that overtakes us and reminds us that everything will be okay; that God is still in control and still on His throne. We never have a reason to fear when we remember that God is in control and is working out all things for the good of His kingdom and His children! What's even better is that Paul doesn't put some limit on what we can pray about. Simply anything that is a concern can be brought to God, asking for His help and His provision. Several books in the Bible remind us of that awesome fact.
I know that recently, my life has went through a real season of worry. It's been rough. But I also know that (sadly) in my worry, I often don't take my concerns to God in prayer. But when I do, I know that somehow, someway, I experience a real peace. And that is wonderful, especially in seasons of worry. So keep praying! God is listening. And that gives us a great reason to rejoice in the Lord.
To me, Philippians 4:4-9 is one of the passages in the Bible that has the most to say to how I live my life and to provide the peace that God wants us to have through Jesus Christ. Paul's advice here has an incredible bearing upon our lives and I know that if we apply what Paul says here, it could totally revolutionize the way our lives look.
For me, though, the biggest thing we learn from this passage is the importance of us not worrying. Worry is an absolutely destructive force in our lives. When we worry, stress, fret, and fear, we can feel like we are living an absolutely miserable life. Things fall apart. Every waking moment is spent thinking about what is going wrong or what could go wrong. It is rough. It's also consuming.
Paul advises, though, instead of us worrying, we should pray. We need to come to God first with our problems, with our issues, and with the things that are weighing us down. Paul assures that when we pray, we will discover an incredible peace that overtakes us and reminds us that everything will be okay; that God is still in control and still on His throne. We never have a reason to fear when we remember that God is in control and is working out all things for the good of His kingdom and His children! What's even better is that Paul doesn't put some limit on what we can pray about. Simply anything that is a concern can be brought to God, asking for His help and His provision. Several books in the Bible remind us of that awesome fact.
I know that recently, my life has went through a real season of worry. It's been rough. But I also know that (sadly) in my worry, I often don't take my concerns to God in prayer. But when I do, I know that somehow, someway, I experience a real peace. And that is wonderful, especially in seasons of worry. So keep praying! God is listening. And that gives us a great reason to rejoice in the Lord.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
83. The Armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-20).
by Wesley Blackburn
I remember when I was a kid, our Sunday School class had to memorize all the parts of the armor of God. I wish I could say that I did so really willingly and that it was a truly transforming thing for my life. Unfortunately, though, that was not the case. I was more excited about the Pop Tart I would get from my teacher after reciting them properly.
But years later, I think I've been able to shed that childlike idea about the armor of God. Now as I think about it, if we could master all of the stuff that Paul talks about being part of the armor of God, we'd be in good shape. Truth, righteousness, peace, and all of the other things Paul talks about in this passage are things that could truly transform our lives if we'd truly grasp them and live them out.
But I think the thing we need to latch onto in this passage is actually before Paul even lists out the armor of God. It comes in Ephesians 6:12, where Paul writes "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."
I'm really not a fan of the people who pawn all of their life's difficulties off onto Satan. But I think I often go to the other extreme. I live so much in this world that I oftentimes forget that there's a whole spiritual world that I can't see. And that world has a real effect on my world. Sometimes the best tactic of the enemy is to lure us into forgetting that he really exists, and that I believe he really is oftentimes trying to work against us. He can put real obstacles in our way.
But the good news? We have a God who has overcome the enemy! We don't have to worry. And we can know that we will overcome as well, if we will only put on the armor of God.
I remember when I was a kid, our Sunday School class had to memorize all the parts of the armor of God. I wish I could say that I did so really willingly and that it was a truly transforming thing for my life. Unfortunately, though, that was not the case. I was more excited about the Pop Tart I would get from my teacher after reciting them properly.
But years later, I think I've been able to shed that childlike idea about the armor of God. Now as I think about it, if we could master all of the stuff that Paul talks about being part of the armor of God, we'd be in good shape. Truth, righteousness, peace, and all of the other things Paul talks about in this passage are things that could truly transform our lives if we'd truly grasp them and live them out.
But I think the thing we need to latch onto in this passage is actually before Paul even lists out the armor of God. It comes in Ephesians 6:12, where Paul writes "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."
I'm really not a fan of the people who pawn all of their life's difficulties off onto Satan. But I think I often go to the other extreme. I live so much in this world that I oftentimes forget that there's a whole spiritual world that I can't see. And that world has a real effect on my world. Sometimes the best tactic of the enemy is to lure us into forgetting that he really exists, and that I believe he really is oftentimes trying to work against us. He can put real obstacles in our way.
But the good news? We have a God who has overcome the enemy! We don't have to worry. And we can know that we will overcome as well, if we will only put on the armor of God.
Friday, September 17, 2010
80. The Trip to Rome-Acts 25:1-28:31
...by Kay Roberts
Whew! That was wild and crazy reading! Is your head spinning? I know mine is.
I can’t imagine the ordeal that Paul went through on this trip. The trip itself was no picnic and to throw in on top all he had endured prior to setting foot on the ship. But what I can imagine is his faith in God. Throughout this entire reading, Paul never waivers. He is the one encouraging the sea captain and advising him even though he is prisoner. He doesn’t try and escape or manipulate those around him for his own agenda. He could’ve absolutely taken advantage of his position in offering counsel to this in charge of him but didn’t. Not once! What a beautiful example Paul has left us especially for this day and age when everyone is out for number one…themselves! His faith and trust in God was so strong that he didn’t waiver.
How can we apply this to our lives today? What steps do we need to take to move forward with our faith? How can we live more boldly in our lives like Paul did?
Whew! That was wild and crazy reading! Is your head spinning? I know mine is.
I can’t imagine the ordeal that Paul went through on this trip. The trip itself was no picnic and to throw in on top all he had endured prior to setting foot on the ship. But what I can imagine is his faith in God. Throughout this entire reading, Paul never waivers. He is the one encouraging the sea captain and advising him even though he is prisoner. He doesn’t try and escape or manipulate those around him for his own agenda. He could’ve absolutely taken advantage of his position in offering counsel to this in charge of him but didn’t. Not once! What a beautiful example Paul has left us especially for this day and age when everyone is out for number one…themselves! His faith and trust in God was so strong that he didn’t waiver.
How can we apply this to our lives today? What steps do we need to take to move forward with our faith? How can we live more boldly in our lives like Paul did?
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Beyond Sunday - Journey: Team Sport
...by John Stas
“You can do it, we can help”…those words sure do resonate with me. We have lived in our home for 23 years and during that time my wife and I have tackled quite a few home improvement projects. I am pretty adept at working around the house so most of the improvements were do-it-yourself jobs. We have finished the basement, remodeled the kitchen, built a front porch, refinished the hardwood floors, remodeled the laundry room, built two decks in the backyard, replaced all of the windows, replaced the roof---twice and I can’t count how many times the walls have been painted. Wow! No wonder I’m tired.
With every project we tackled we were able to assess the job at hand, and we were smart enough, in most cases, to seek the help and expertise of others to allow us to get the job done right. Greg’s message drove home that same point. No matter how inadequate we feel about talking with our “one” we have the resources at our disposal necessary to get the job done…if we seek them out.
The best assistance I received on my home projects came when I sought the help of a friend or relative who had already done what I was attempting to do. In engaging our “one” that approach is also a sound one. The idea of a partnership between me, the church, and God makes all the sense in the world. I’m the only one who can tell the story of how Jesus has influenced my life. The church and other Christ followers have experiences that I can draw on, but God is ultimately responsible for changing my “one’s” heart. Home Depot’s advertizing encourages the do-it-yourselfer to stop putting off their projects and get started. Good advice! “You can do it, we can help.”
“You can do it, we can help”…those words sure do resonate with me. We have lived in our home for 23 years and during that time my wife and I have tackled quite a few home improvement projects. I am pretty adept at working around the house so most of the improvements were do-it-yourself jobs. We have finished the basement, remodeled the kitchen, built a front porch, refinished the hardwood floors, remodeled the laundry room, built two decks in the backyard, replaced all of the windows, replaced the roof---twice and I can’t count how many times the walls have been painted. Wow! No wonder I’m tired.
With every project we tackled we were able to assess the job at hand, and we were smart enough, in most cases, to seek the help and expertise of others to allow us to get the job done right. Greg’s message drove home that same point. No matter how inadequate we feel about talking with our “one” we have the resources at our disposal necessary to get the job done…if we seek them out.
The best assistance I received on my home projects came when I sought the help of a friend or relative who had already done what I was attempting to do. In engaging our “one” that approach is also a sound one. The idea of a partnership between me, the church, and God makes all the sense in the world. I’m the only one who can tell the story of how Jesus has influenced my life. The church and other Christ followers have experiences that I can draw on, but God is ultimately responsible for changing my “one’s” heart. Home Depot’s advertizing encourages the do-it-yourselfer to stop putting off their projects and get started. Good advice! “You can do it, we can help.”
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
77. The First Missionary Journey (Acts 13:1-14:28).
I can’t imagine how many times in my life I have read this passage, but it’s been a while. In some ways it seems like a random account of Paul’s missionary journeys: Paul goes here, Paul goes there. This happens, that happens. Not quite so random, though. My son Tim tells me that the Book of Acts shows how the spread of the gospel unfolds geographically. You know Acts 1:8 well by now, don’t you? “…in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." Well, now we are going to the ends of the earth with Paul. The ends of the earth as he knew it anyway.
The book unfolds biographically, too. The first part of the book of Acts tells more about Peter’s ministry to the Jews, and at this point (ch.13) the focus goes to Paul and his ministry to the Gentiles. But who is the real main character of the Book of Acts? It’s God. This is not so much a passage about what Paul is doing, as it is about what the Holy Spirit is doing. Though the Suncrest mission statement says that we want to be used by God to change lives, that could have been the mission statement for Paul’s life as well! It is God who is at work in the Book of Acts, in a mighty way, and he used the church to get his work done.
And folks, we are the church. God might not be calling you to the uttermost parts of the earth, but he is calling you next door or down the street. He is calling you to share your heart with your “one,” the neighbor, co-worker, or family member who needs his unconditional grace. Pray for opportunities and pray for open minds and open hearts. The early church did not pray for ease and comfort, they prayed for boldness and power. Let’s do the same!
Friday, September 10, 2010
75. Good News for All (Acts 10:1-11:18).
by Dave Wright
Now, Peter was trying to figure out what he just saw when the men Cornelius had sent arrived. They told him they were to bring him to Caesarea and meet with their boss, the Roman guard. So Peter went along. While Peter was traveling back, Cornelius started to ask his friends and family to stop by. As they gathered at the house, Peter approached. But I also think he had to hesitate before walking in. This was a room full of Jews! Was this a trick? Cornelius met him at the door. The passage tells it much better than I ever could from here:
“You know, our church is filled more of the Holy Spirit than the church down the street.”
“I don’t know how they can be considered a place of worship…they only have communion every quarter.”
“How do they consider themselves to be Children of God when they…?”
Wow, it seems like every time I am asked to write one of these blogs I start by things I have overheard. So…how many times have you heard these words…or even said them yourself?
Acts 10:1 through 11:18 tells the story of Cornelius, a Roman guard who lived in Caesarea. One afternoon Cornelius was visited by an angel who told him to send his men to Joppa and find Peter and bring him back to see him. While the men were coming to get Peter, he was in Joppa on a rooftop when he fell into a trance and saw a vision of Heaven open and unfurl a large sheet of all kinds of four-footed animals. The voice of the Lord said to Peter, “Get up Peter, kill and eat!” Peter replied to the Lord saying, “Surely not. I have never eaten anything impure or unclean.” But the Lord replied, “Do not call anything impure the Lord has made clean.”
Now, Peter was trying to figure out what he just saw when the men Cornelius had sent arrived. They told him they were to bring him to Caesarea and meet with their boss, the Roman guard. So Peter went along. While Peter was traveling back, Cornelius started to ask his friends and family to stop by. As they gathered at the house, Peter approached. But I also think he had to hesitate before walking in. This was a room full of Jews! Was this a trick? Cornelius met him at the door. The passage tells it much better than I ever could from here:
7Talking with him, Peter went inside and found a large gathering of people. 28He said to them: "You are well aware that it is against our law for a Jew to associate with a Gentile or visit him. But God has shown me that I should not call any man impure or unclean. 29So when I was sent for, I came without raising any objection. May I ask why you sent for me?"
30Cornelius answered: "Four days ago I was in my house praying at this hour, at three in the afternoon. Suddenly a man in shining clothes stood before me 31and said, 'Cornelius, God has heard your prayer and remembered your gifts to the poor. 32Send to Joppa for Simon who is called Peter. He is a guest in the home of Simon the tanner, who lives by the sea.' 33So I sent for you immediately, and it was good of you to come. Now we are all here in the presence of God to listen to everything the Lord has commanded you to tell us."
34Then Peter began to speak: "I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism 35but accepts men from every nation who fear him and do what is right. 36You know the message God sent to the people of Israel, telling the good news of peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all. 37You know what has happened throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John preached— 38how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him.
39"We are witnesses of everything he did in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They killed him by hanging him on a tree, 40but God raised him from the dead on the third day and caused him to be seen. 41He was not seen by all the people, but by witnesses whom God had already chosen—by us who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. 42He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one whom God appointed as judge of the living and the dead. 43All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name."
This was a “aha” moment in Peter’s life. The vision now made sense. The “Good News” is for everyone. God does not show favoritism and accepts people from every nation who fear him and do what is right. The passage goes on to say that as Peter spoke, the Holy Spirit came upon everyone present and Peter stayed to baptize them. A few days later, the word had spread about what had happened. Peter was grilled, being asked “How can you go into a house of uncircumcised men and eat wth them?” Peter told them of his vision and replied, “So if God gave them the same gift as he gave us, who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to think that I could oppose God?" What a great response to an obviously silly question. Who was Peter to think that he could oppose God and not spread the good news?
The Good News is for everybody. It is not just for the church that has the most “Holy Spirit Quotient," or for the church with quarterly communion service. I repeat, the Good News is for everybody. God gave his Son, Jesus Christ, to die on the cross for everybody’s sins. Is there any better news anywhere?
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Beyond Sunday - Journey: Love First
...by Beka Jackson
Sunday's message happened to be one that is very important to me. Not that I am always very good at showing love first... Actually, I have had to learn to show love first to those who don't know Jesus. And really, I am still learning!
When Bobby and I moved to Northwest Indiana, we prayed that God would put us in a home where we could impact the community. We prayed for a neighborhood that didn't know about Christ. He heard that prayer and answered it very quickly.
But it has been a learning experience for me even this past week. I am surrounded by people who haven't realized the love of Christ. (You know, exactly what I asked for!) But often times I am offended by how they live. How can they do that? What makes them think that's okay? And, embarrassingly, I have even communicated as much to them in the past.
I came home from church this past Sunday and really, the second I pulled in the car I was chanting my new mantra, "Love First, Love First, Love First." It isn't always easy to do. But it is what we are called to do. It is what I told God I wanted to do. And though I thought I would be really good at it, He shows me that I am not. Even when I do it, and it may seem natural to those around me, I am working hard on the inside against an incredibly judgmental woman that I am naturally.
One thing I have learned is to focus on what is important. I tell my kids all the time, we live the way we do, do the things we do because we understand what Jesus has done for us. How can we expect those who don't understand His love and sacrifice to behave the way we want them to?
And so when I see non-believers I pray that God will show me people who haven't experienced His love, not people that yell too loudly, or keep their yard messier than mine, or don't dress as neat or modestly as I think they should...
This past Sunday, we were asked to write on the walls about times we feel God’s love. These are some of the responses.
I Experience God’s Love When...
...He forgives me of my sins.
...I am playing on worship team and I see the church worship.
...I first became saved and realized who Jesus was.
...Jesus saved my son’s life from death.
...I delivered my first baby.
...I feel God restoring love and respect in my broken marriage.
...He provides financially for my family.
...I pray with my boys at night.
...I think about the kindness of the people surrounding me in my life.
...I see the joy and smiles on the peoples’ faces here at Suncrest.
...I saw my first granddaughter being born!
...I am serving Him. Because the memory of who I was and what I have done is never far behind me. But His grace has made me the person He has called to serve Him!
...I realize His mercy is for me no matter what I’ve done, He loves me!
...I was still a sinner, God loved me.
...I celebrated our 25th anniversary with family and friends.
...I see my children overcome any obstacle, challenge or disability.
...I am holding my children and I get to tell them about Jesus.
...I see the ultrasound picture of my 18-month-old grandson.
...I share a smile with a stranger and share a prayer for them.
...I pray each night.
...He gives me strength when I felt I had none left.
...I am loved by family and friends.
...I am at Camp LRCA.
...I attended a funeral visitation. He was there.
...I am at SLW.
Sunday's message happened to be one that is very important to me. Not that I am always very good at showing love first... Actually, I have had to learn to show love first to those who don't know Jesus. And really, I am still learning!
When Bobby and I moved to Northwest Indiana, we prayed that God would put us in a home where we could impact the community. We prayed for a neighborhood that didn't know about Christ. He heard that prayer and answered it very quickly.
But it has been a learning experience for me even this past week. I am surrounded by people who haven't realized the love of Christ. (You know, exactly what I asked for!) But often times I am offended by how they live. How can they do that? What makes them think that's okay? And, embarrassingly, I have even communicated as much to them in the past.
I came home from church this past Sunday and really, the second I pulled in the car I was chanting my new mantra, "Love First, Love First, Love First." It isn't always easy to do. But it is what we are called to do. It is what I told God I wanted to do. And though I thought I would be really good at it, He shows me that I am not. Even when I do it, and it may seem natural to those around me, I am working hard on the inside against an incredibly judgmental woman that I am naturally.
One thing I have learned is to focus on what is important. I tell my kids all the time, we live the way we do, do the things we do because we understand what Jesus has done for us. How can we expect those who don't understand His love and sacrifice to behave the way we want them to?
And so when I see non-believers I pray that God will show me people who haven't experienced His love, not people that yell too loudly, or keep their yard messier than mine, or don't dress as neat or modestly as I think they should...
This past Sunday, we were asked to write on the walls about times we feel God’s love. These are some of the responses.
I Experience God’s Love When...
...He forgives me of my sins.
...I am playing on worship team and I see the church worship.
...I first became saved and realized who Jesus was.
...Jesus saved my son’s life from death.
...I delivered my first baby.
...I feel God restoring love and respect in my broken marriage.
...He provides financially for my family.
...I pray with my boys at night.
...I think about the kindness of the people surrounding me in my life.
...I see the joy and smiles on the peoples’ faces here at Suncrest.
...I saw my first granddaughter being born!
...I am serving Him. Because the memory of who I was and what I have done is never far behind me. But His grace has made me the person He has called to serve Him!
...I realize His mercy is for me no matter what I’ve done, He loves me!
...I was still a sinner, God loved me.
...I celebrated our 25th anniversary with family and friends.
...I see my children overcome any obstacle, challenge or disability.
...I am holding my children and I get to tell them about Jesus.
...I see the ultrasound picture of my 18-month-old grandson.
...I share a smile with a stranger and share a prayer for them.
...I pray each night.
...He gives me strength when I felt I had none left.
...I am loved by family and friends.
...I am at Camp LRCA.
...I attended a funeral visitation. He was there.
...I am at SLW.
74. Sharing the Word (Acts 8:26-40).
by Lynn Barbee
God has such a sense of humor. Or timing. When I saw that the assignment I had been given for this blog was Acts 8:26-40, I had to smile. August 26 (8/26 for the numerically minded) was the day I was baptized in 1971 at the tender age of… (mumbles something) whatever I was. I was a young sophomore in high school, and met a girl who became my best friend and is still one of my closest friends to this day. She invited me to attend church youth group with her, and the rest is history. I was baptized at Camp LRCA , which was in Cedar Lake back then, and my life has never been the same. I always say my life changed, not only for the hereafter, but for the here and now. I grew up in an alcoholic home, and my dad died when I was still young. I was headed for a life of going my own way. I can only imagine the path my life would have taken if someone had not opened the Book with me!
I remember sitting at a big table in the basement of the First Church of Christ in Whiting in the Sundays before that monumental decision. The youth group leaders and other teens would answer my questions…and there was this huge black Bible…. how could I understand, unless someone explained it to me? I had been a Christian all my life, but had never even learned how to look up a Bible verse. On August 26, 1971, I went from Christian to Christ-follower, and have never looked back. What a wonderful journey it’s been!
We all have the responsibility to share what Christ has done in our lives, and we all can tell what we know. You might not be the Bible scholar you want to be, but like the teens in my high school youth group, share what you know. I saw the difference in their lives. You and I have the potential to let God use us to change lives as well; I pray that we will let him to do that!
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
73. The First Martyr (Acts 6:8-8:8).
by Wesley Blackburn
And now, things continue on in the story of the early church with the first martyr, Stephen. We don’t know a whole lot about Stephen, or how he came to Christ, but we do know that the Holy Spirit was obviously with this man. He would soon distinguish himself as one of the leaders in the church, and would be a trusted helper in the disciples’ ministry to the widows in the church.
As you read today, Stephen would speak boldly for Christ. Unfortunately, this would be met with quite a bit of opposition from the Jewish leadership, who would eventually bring him before the Sanhedrin. After offering a bold speech about the identity of Christ, sharing who He really was, Stephen would be stoned. What’s more, he would be stoned under the cold approval of a man named Saul, who actually becomes quite a big figure in the story of the early church. We’ll hear more about him (and from him) later.
From the life of Stephen, though, I think I learn some important things. One of those is that Stephen wasn’t afraid of conflict, and I shouldn’t be either. This isn’t to say that Stephen was a person who necessarily embraced conflict, and certainly doesn’t mean that he shared about Christ without love. But this is to say that when conflict arose, Stephen wasn’t afraid. I wish I had more of that. Sometimes, when I’m in situations with people who are hostile toward Christ or Christianity, my tendency is actually to be quiet and say nothing. Maybe I need to step up and exhibit some of the boldness that Stephen showed in this passage. I need to share about Christ firmly, yet lovingly.
I think the second thing we should see in the life of Stephen is something that might be incredibly easy to look over or to miss: Stephen was an active part of the secular (if we can use that term here) world in which he lived. Think about it: the fact that Stephen came into conflict with people over Jesus meant that he was constantly surrounding himself with people who didn’t know Jesus. Stephen didn’t hide away, even though that would be easy; in fact, it would have helped him avoid his death. But instead, Stephen didn’t retreat into a holy huddle. He boldly engaged the world in which he lived. I need to do the same.
And finally, I think the last lesson we learn from Stephen is that he lived with a heavenward focus. Even in his final moments before death, he was still looking toward heaven, and he actually saw the face of Jesus. I think a big source of our fears, concerns, anxieties, and worries in this life revolve around the fact that we don’t live with a truly heavenward focus, because in light of heaven, those issues fade away. If we could live like Stephen, truly focusing and believing in the incredible reward of heaven to come, I think it would drastically affect how we live today.
And now, things continue on in the story of the early church with the first martyr, Stephen. We don’t know a whole lot about Stephen, or how he came to Christ, but we do know that the Holy Spirit was obviously with this man. He would soon distinguish himself as one of the leaders in the church, and would be a trusted helper in the disciples’ ministry to the widows in the church.
As you read today, Stephen would speak boldly for Christ. Unfortunately, this would be met with quite a bit of opposition from the Jewish leadership, who would eventually bring him before the Sanhedrin. After offering a bold speech about the identity of Christ, sharing who He really was, Stephen would be stoned. What’s more, he would be stoned under the cold approval of a man named Saul, who actually becomes quite a big figure in the story of the early church. We’ll hear more about him (and from him) later.
From the life of Stephen, though, I think I learn some important things. One of those is that Stephen wasn’t afraid of conflict, and I shouldn’t be either. This isn’t to say that Stephen was a person who necessarily embraced conflict, and certainly doesn’t mean that he shared about Christ without love. But this is to say that when conflict arose, Stephen wasn’t afraid. I wish I had more of that. Sometimes, when I’m in situations with people who are hostile toward Christ or Christianity, my tendency is actually to be quiet and say nothing. Maybe I need to step up and exhibit some of the boldness that Stephen showed in this passage. I need to share about Christ firmly, yet lovingly.
I think the second thing we should see in the life of Stephen is something that might be incredibly easy to look over or to miss: Stephen was an active part of the secular (if we can use that term here) world in which he lived. Think about it: the fact that Stephen came into conflict with people over Jesus meant that he was constantly surrounding himself with people who didn’t know Jesus. Stephen didn’t hide away, even though that would be easy; in fact, it would have helped him avoid his death. But instead, Stephen didn’t retreat into a holy huddle. He boldly engaged the world in which he lived. I need to do the same.
And finally, I think the last lesson we learn from Stephen is that he lived with a heavenward focus. Even in his final moments before death, he was still looking toward heaven, and he actually saw the face of Jesus. I think a big source of our fears, concerns, anxieties, and worries in this life revolve around the fact that we don’t live with a truly heavenward focus, because in light of heaven, those issues fade away. If we could live like Stephen, truly focusing and believing in the incredible reward of heaven to come, I think it would drastically affect how we live today.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
72. Growth and Persecution (Acts 3:1-4:37).
by Bobby Jackson
As corny as it might sound, I wrote my high school term paper on Acts 4. Ten pages seemed like an amazing amount at that point and I wanted to write about something that could keep my interest. I chose the subject of authority, responsibility, and jurisdiction. Authority is tricky in this text. We are taught to respect authority, submit to authority, to honor those in authority. So how does all of that coincide with the apex of this chapter?
18Then they (the Sanhedrin) called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. 19But Peter and John replied, "Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God's sight to obey you rather than God. 20For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard."
When do we listen to and obey “those that rule over us” and when do we purposefully go the other way? Is there a time when leaders in the church do not have to be followed? Should not be followed?
Admittedly I was more looking for a loophole so that I didn’t have to listen to some of the authorities in my life, but I stumbled onto a good Scriptural concept: we are not called to be drones that merely go along with whatever the perceived authority calls us to, but we have to follow Christ above everything else (but we must disobey authorities lovingly... see Romans 13). Peter and John were with Jesus and had an unusual courage. I pray that I can stand up for what is right and have courage that others might recognize that I have been “with Jesus.”
As corny as it might sound, I wrote my high school term paper on Acts 4. Ten pages seemed like an amazing amount at that point and I wanted to write about something that could keep my interest. I chose the subject of authority, responsibility, and jurisdiction. Authority is tricky in this text. We are taught to respect authority, submit to authority, to honor those in authority. So how does all of that coincide with the apex of this chapter?
18Then they (the Sanhedrin) called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. 19But Peter and John replied, "Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God's sight to obey you rather than God. 20For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard."
When do we listen to and obey “those that rule over us” and when do we purposefully go the other way? Is there a time when leaders in the church do not have to be followed? Should not be followed?
Admittedly I was more looking for a loophole so that I didn’t have to listen to some of the authorities in my life, but I stumbled onto a good Scriptural concept: we are not called to be drones that merely go along with whatever the perceived authority calls us to, but we have to follow Christ above everything else (but we must disobey authorities lovingly... see Romans 13). Peter and John were with Jesus and had an unusual courage. I pray that I can stand up for what is right and have courage that others might recognize that I have been “with Jesus.”
Friday, September 3, 2010
70. The Ascension (Acts 1:1-11).
by Wesley Blackburn
Last words say a lot about a person.
Maybe you've experienced that firsthand, watching a family member or a loved one die. Perhaps you got to hear some last words from that person that you still hold near and dear to your heart today. Recently, there was a huge buzz over this book (I believe featured on Oprah) called The Last Lecture, where a college professor who knew he would die soon of cancer gave his final lecture ever, talking about life and what really mattered.
Whatever the case, people have a tendency to get real very quickly when it comes to their famous last words. What is at our core; at our heart, comes out. Jesus' last words before ascending back into heaven are probably pretty familiar to you by this point if you're a part of Suncrest:
Last words say a lot about a person.
Maybe you've experienced that firsthand, watching a family member or a loved one die. Perhaps you got to hear some last words from that person that you still hold near and dear to your heart today. Recently, there was a huge buzz over this book (I believe featured on Oprah) called The Last Lecture, where a college professor who knew he would die soon of cancer gave his final lecture ever, talking about life and what really mattered.
Whatever the case, people have a tendency to get real very quickly when it comes to their famous last words. What is at our core; at our heart, comes out. Jesus' last words before ascending back into heaven are probably pretty familiar to you by this point if you're a part of Suncrest:
"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you. And you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
Yep, that's the infamous (can you call a Bible verse "infamous?") Acts 1:8 of Suncrest Jesus Mission fame. But these are also, interestingly enough, the last words of Jesus while on this earth. And what does Jesus do? He commissions His followers. He tells them to go. He asks them to be His witnesses.
I've got to think that that command applies just as much to us today. Just like the apostles 2,000 years ago, Jesus is commissioning us to go and be His witnesses in our part of the world. As a church, we've tried to capture this by launching campuses in Highland and Walkerton, as well as stepping up our involvement in Liberia with churches there. But I believe we also need to think personally; what's the mission field God has placed each of us in? Where is he calling us to be His witnesses? Maybe it's your "one" that we've been talking about over the past couple weeks of our Journey series at Suncrest. Maybe you get this sense or longing from the Holy Spirit that God wants you to lead the way in a relationship or at work. Whatever it is, go and do it! Christ has commissioned us all... let's be His witnesses.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Beyond Sunday - Journey: Only God
...by Kevin DeBraal
“Being used by God to change lives”.
At Suncrest this is our mission. It is accomplished in many ways. Through service, testimony, financial contributions, relationships, etc. Those are the areas where I am most comfortable. Reaching out to the seeker or those who do not know God is more difficult for me. I think I have the typical resistance due to hesitations related to how people will react to me. How will they respond? Will they ask questions I can’t answer? Will they reject me and my approach? Will I pick the right time to approach them? What if I fail?
Greg taught us to identify the “One” whom we could engage and bring the message of Christ’s love and redemption. He taught us that we should pray for the interaction we would have. One question he asked was “Do I believe prayer actually has an effect?”. I believe God has answered my prayers. I have experienced it and seen it in retrospection. I always have a vision of how God should respond to my prayers; He obviously has a different perspective, plan, and vision. I accept that because in the end I believe He has a plan far beyond my comprehension.
So this week I will trust in God and the power of prayer. I will pray to identify my “One” I will pray for God to “affect” that person so that they might be responsive to me. I will pray that I will recognize the opportunity that is presented for me to engage my “One”. I will pray very hard that I can overcome my “hesitations”.
Finally I will embrace that Only God “makes things grow” and that my interaction is just the planting of a seed or watering of the plant. That takes off some of the pressure that leads to the hesitance. I hope you will join me.
“Being used by God to change lives”.
At Suncrest this is our mission. It is accomplished in many ways. Through service, testimony, financial contributions, relationships, etc. Those are the areas where I am most comfortable. Reaching out to the seeker or those who do not know God is more difficult for me. I think I have the typical resistance due to hesitations related to how people will react to me. How will they respond? Will they ask questions I can’t answer? Will they reject me and my approach? Will I pick the right time to approach them? What if I fail?
Greg taught us to identify the “One” whom we could engage and bring the message of Christ’s love and redemption. He taught us that we should pray for the interaction we would have. One question he asked was “Do I believe prayer actually has an effect?”. I believe God has answered my prayers. I have experienced it and seen it in retrospection. I always have a vision of how God should respond to my prayers; He obviously has a different perspective, plan, and vision. I accept that because in the end I believe He has a plan far beyond my comprehension.
So this week I will trust in God and the power of prayer. I will pray to identify my “One” I will pray for God to “affect” that person so that they might be responsive to me. I will pray that I will recognize the opportunity that is presented for me to engage my “One”. I will pray very hard that I can overcome my “hesitations”.
Finally I will embrace that Only God “makes things grow” and that my interaction is just the planting of a seed or watering of the plant. That takes off some of the pressure that leads to the hesitance. I hope you will join me.
69. The Resurrection (John 20:1-21:25).
by Wesley Blackburn
And now, after some very deep, tough posts over the past few days, we arrive at the joy of the Resurrection!
I believe that the resurrection of Jesus is a reliable, historical fact. There are plenty of reasons we can know and believe in it and place our confidence and trust in what Jesus has done here. The Son of God rose from the dead, proving once and for all that He has conquered sin and death and hell. Nothing can stop us! If Jesus can conquer the dead, truly there is a chance for all of us as well! To put it simply, Jesus' resurrection is the down payment on the future glory that all of us will have a chance to experience in heaven one day.
But for me, this story has one side note: Thomas. Growing up in the church, I felt like we gave poor Thomas a lot of flack for doubting that Jesus had risen again. But can you really blame the guy? People don't just rise from the dead everyday. I can respect where Thomas was coming from, for sure. But what's exciting the most to me are Jesus' words to Thomas after he has felt the wounds in Jesus' hands and side. Jesus tells the disciples, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."
We are all in that category... called "blessed" by Christ himself! I don't necessarily know what that blessing entails, but I know that God is happy when we live a life of faith in Him. Let's keep hoping, and keep believing. And let's always carry around in our hearts the incredible hope and inexpressible joy that comes from knowing our God is not dead... He is surely alive!
And now, after some very deep, tough posts over the past few days, we arrive at the joy of the Resurrection!
I believe that the resurrection of Jesus is a reliable, historical fact. There are plenty of reasons we can know and believe in it and place our confidence and trust in what Jesus has done here. The Son of God rose from the dead, proving once and for all that He has conquered sin and death and hell. Nothing can stop us! If Jesus can conquer the dead, truly there is a chance for all of us as well! To put it simply, Jesus' resurrection is the down payment on the future glory that all of us will have a chance to experience in heaven one day.
But for me, this story has one side note: Thomas. Growing up in the church, I felt like we gave poor Thomas a lot of flack for doubting that Jesus had risen again. But can you really blame the guy? People don't just rise from the dead everyday. I can respect where Thomas was coming from, for sure. But what's exciting the most to me are Jesus' words to Thomas after he has felt the wounds in Jesus' hands and side. Jesus tells the disciples, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."
We are all in that category... called "blessed" by Christ himself! I don't necessarily know what that blessing entails, but I know that God is happy when we live a life of faith in Him. Let's keep hoping, and keep believing. And let's always carry around in our hearts the incredible hope and inexpressible joy that comes from knowing our God is not dead... He is surely alive!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
68. The Crucifixion (John 19:1-42).
by Wesley Blackburn
And now we arrive at what was simultaneously earth's darkest hour and greatest hour: the crucifixion.
It's really an ending with more twists and turns than any author or writer could ever imagine. The same crowd that just days before praised Jesus as the Son of God would now shout, "Crucify Him!" Jesus, just as prophecy predicted hundreds of years before, would be led like a lamb to the slaughter. He would not protest. Even though He was the Son of God, He would not insist on His own rights. Rather, He would willingly give up His own life in the most painful way imaginable to fulfill the will of the Father.
But surely the cross also shows us something else that's amazing, and that's Jesus' incredible love for us. I was thinking about this at one point last winter; because of the cross, I never have to wonder whether or not Jesus loves me. I never have to wonder if Jesus' grace for me really is true; if God really offers forgiveness to me for what I've done. The cross leaves no doubt. Truly, Jesus loves all of us. It was the only reason He died, and it once and for all answers the question whether or not God cares, God sees, and God loves.
Because the answer is yes. God loves me incredibly. The cross proves it.
And now we arrive at what was simultaneously earth's darkest hour and greatest hour: the crucifixion.
It's really an ending with more twists and turns than any author or writer could ever imagine. The same crowd that just days before praised Jesus as the Son of God would now shout, "Crucify Him!" Jesus, just as prophecy predicted hundreds of years before, would be led like a lamb to the slaughter. He would not protest. Even though He was the Son of God, He would not insist on His own rights. Rather, He would willingly give up His own life in the most painful way imaginable to fulfill the will of the Father.
But surely the cross also shows us something else that's amazing, and that's Jesus' incredible love for us. I was thinking about this at one point last winter; because of the cross, I never have to wonder whether or not Jesus loves me. I never have to wonder if Jesus' grace for me really is true; if God really offers forgiveness to me for what I've done. The cross leaves no doubt. Truly, Jesus loves all of us. It was the only reason He died, and it once and for all answers the question whether or not God cares, God sees, and God loves.
Because the answer is yes. God loves me incredibly. The cross proves it.
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