Rev. Kenneth Fellenbaum

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Milford, Connecticut, United States

Bible Verse of the Day

Friday, December 30, 2011

Jesus the King

During Advent, we focus on various titles of Jesus Christ. In this post we will examine Jesus the King. This title refers primarily to his future activity when he will come again. But let us begin by reviewing some things from the past:

(1) The Hebrew Scriptures contain many prophecies concerning the Kingdom. The Christ, or Messiah, was to be a descendant of David and occupy his throne. The Prophet Isaiah said, "Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever" (9:7). See also the following references: 2 Samuel 7:5-16, Psalm 89:27-29 and Jeremiah 23:5-6.

(2) He was to come into the world as a King. When the angel announced the birth of Jesus to Mary, this is what he said, "You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end” (Luke 1:31-33).

(3) Jesus was born a King. Magi from the East came to Jerusalem and asked, "Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him” (Matthew 2:1-2).

(4) He was rejected as a King. The Jewish authorities handed Jesus over to Pilate and he asked, "'What shall I do, then, with the one you call the king of the Jews?' Pilate asked them. 'Crucify him!' they shouted" (Mark 15:12-13).

(5) Jesus died as a King. "Above his head they placed the written charge against him: 'THIS IS JESUS, THE KING OF THE JEWS'" (Matthew 27:37).

Considering that Jesus was born in a stable and laid in a manger, people might wonder what kind of king he was. The mockers present at his crucifixion said, "'He saved others,' they said, 'but he can’t save himself! Let this Messiah, this king of Israel, come down now from the cross, that we may see and believe'”(Mark 15:31-32). Despite the clear prophecies of Scriptures, these circumstances may have confused or misled some people; however, people of faith recognize him as their Savior and Lord and are part of his Spiritual Kingdom, the Church.

(6) When Jesus comes again, he will return as a King. At this point, we should remind ourselves what kings were in history. Kings did not reign as figure heads of state as is the case today in the remaining constitutional monarchies like England and Spain. In Biblical times, kings were absolute monarchs who ruled by divine decree. At his Second Coming, Christ will set up a Kingdom and reign forever. The Kingdom will continue until all enemies, angelic and human, will be put down (1 Corinthians 15:25-28). However, Christ's kingly reign will be eternal in as much as Christ goes on reigning by the authority of the Father. When he appears riding a white horse and accompanied by the Hosts of Heaven, he will wear a robe and bear the inscription, "KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS" (Revelation 17:14; 19:16). At this time, "Every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord" (Philippians 2:10-11).

You can choose to confess him now as Lord or be forced to at this future time. Why not make him your King today and be part of his Kingdom on earth and also share the hope of his eternal Kingdom.

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Musings about the Messiah

The many promises and prophecies in Hebrew Scriptures led devout Jews to anticipate a coming of Messiah. Simeon and Anna, two elderly persons described in Luke 2, represent many others who also shared this hope. The Scriptures also foretold the appearance of a forerunner before the revelation of the Messiah. The emergence of John the Baptist was seen as the fulfillment of this prophecy: "In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea and saying, 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.' This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: 'A voice of one calling in the wilderness, Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him’” (Matthew 3:1-3).

Some people living then thought that John the Baptist was the Messiah but he pointed them to Jesus Christ and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! This is the one I meant when I said, 'A man who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me’" (John 1:29-30). Later when John was in prison, he sent his disciples to Jesus and asked him, "Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?”(Matthew 11:2-3). Apparently, John was experiencing some doubt about who Jesus was and just wanted to make sure that Jesus really was the Messiah. This is not all that uncommon--who among has not had occasional questions about Jesus Christ.

Christians believe that Jesus was the Messiah. As proof, believers point to various Scriptures that indicate the fulfillment of Messianic prophecies in Christ. Some of these are general enough in nature that a good number of others could claim (and many have) to be Messiah. For instance, Messiah was to come through the house and line of David. Critics would characterize certain other prophecies as being self-fulfilled by Jesus. As a knowledgeable Jew, he was familiar with passages such as Zechariah 9:9--the prophecy about Messiah entering Jerusalem by riding on a donkey. Even if you accept the miracles of Jesus as authentic (and not the made-up preaching of the Early Church)--there were a number of other individuals in the Bible that were able to do miraculous signs (Moses, Elijah, etc.) and they obviously were not the Messiah.

The Jewish problem with Jesus as Messiah boils down to two major points. First, if Jesus were the Messiah, what happened to the Kingdom. Since no kingdom materialized then he must not have been the Messiah. By the way, his own disciples were also looking for a kingdom right up and until his ascension (See Acts 1). Secondly, Jewish theological beliefs about the holiness of God prohibit the Messiah from being both God and man. However, the prophecy of Isaiah 9:6-7 indicates that the child to be born would be called, "Mighty God and Everlasting Father."

So how can we know that Jesus truly was the Messiah? 1) Overwhelming evidence is provided through the abundance of Scriptures and prophecies that were fulfilled by Jesus. 2) A proper understanding of his first appearance and what was accomplished, along with the present spiritual nature of the Kingdom, indicates that he is the Messiah. When he comes again, a literal Kingdom will be realized. 3) Jesus said that he was the Messiah (see John 4:26 and Mark 14:61-62). 4) His resurrection from the dead proves his uniqueness but ultimately it comes down to a matter of faith. When you believe, you are given confirmation through the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. Why is this important? Because God promised a Messiah and he has kept his word. Even more basic, why was a Messiah necessary? Because the sinful condition of the world required a Saviour. When Jesus comes again in power and glory, he will usher in the Kingdom. You can experience that peace and prosperity (spiritual blessings) now through faith.

Sunday, October 30, 2011

Vital Communication

The Apostle Paul wrote this to his disciple Timothy: "I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all people..." (1 Timothy 2:1-6). This paragraph begins by emphasizing the primacy of prayer. The first thing we should do is to pray--not when we get around to it or as a last resort. Prayer and praying should be at the top of our list of things to do.

Notice the four different words that the Apostle used to describe prayer. He did this to instruct and to expand our understanding of what prayer really is. The first word he used was "requests." When we make a request we are doing two things: communicating a need and expressing our faith that the one we ask can help. God, the Heavenly Father, knows our needs before we ask--but he awaits our asking. And he is capable of answering and desires to fill our need. Sadly, "we have not because we ask not" (James 4:2).

The second word is "prayer." What is prayer? It is communication with God. We only use the word when we are speaking to Deity. We do not pray to one another (human beings) but to God, the Creator and Sustainer of all that is. Think of it--in prayer we can bring our "requests" to the Sovereign power of the universe. Being able to speak directly to the Mayor, Governor or President would cause just about everyone to feel good about going to the top and talking to someone who can fix our problem. In prayer we can do even better as we bring our concerns to Almighty God.

The third word is "intercession." According to Barclay, this word meant "to enter into a king's presence and to submit a petition to him." This says a lot about prayer. It tells us that we have the privilege to enter the throne room and bring our petitions to the one who is King. We can do this for our needs--and we can intercede on behalf of others. As a religious leader, I am often asked to write a letter or speak to someone in authority regarding another person. And of course people ask me to pray for their problems; but every believer is a priest and can be and intercessor.

The fourth word is "thanksgiving." What does "thanksgiving" have to do with a prayer? Well, for one thing, we ought to remember to thank God for what he has done for us. Who of us likes a friend who always asks but never remembers to say "thanks." Philippians 4:6 states this, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Thank God in advance for what he will do in response to your requests.

This passage also tells us who to pray for--"everyone." Do you know of anyone who does not need prayer? In particular, we are to pray for our leaders and if we will do so we will be granted the blessings described in verse 6. It is much better to pray for our political leaders than to criticize--and more effective. When we pray, remember whose name we can and should use--"Jesus Christ." He is the one mediator between God and man. Lastly remember to check your attitude, "Lift up holy hands in prayer, without anger or disputing" (v. 8).

Friday, September 30, 2011

Prayer and Sharing

Christians often use the words "prayer" and "sharing" together. The way this phrase is used in the North American Church is different from the "praying and sharing" that is reported in Acts 4:23-37. When believers today refer to "prayer and sharing" it is more precisely "sharing and prayer." The occasion for prayer is usually preceded by a period of sharing concerns and requests. Many times this gets rather lengthy and is actually longer than the prayer time itself. Why do we have to discuss things among ourselves before bringing them to the throne of God? Why not just pray? Others listening can pray along in agreement or pray for the needs themselves.

How different things were in the Jerusalem church! They prayed first - a very deep prayer that was then followed by the sharing of their material goods with those who had need. Let us look first of all at what they prayed and then secondly how they shared.

After the release of Peter and John (from custody of the Sanhedrin) the believers raised their voices together in prayer to God" (Acts 4:24-30). Notice the content of their prayer. 1) The Sovereignty of God. The Almighty is the Creator and Sovereign Lord of the universe. This is a good thing to remind ourselves of when things seem to be out of control. Evil people may be acting on their own volition but somehow God works everything into his purpose and will (See Luke 2:1-12 & Matthew 2:3-6). 2) They referred to Scripture, actually quoting from a relevant passage from Psalms. This is an excellent thing to do - use God's own words when we are seeking something from him. Of course this means we need to be familiar with the Bible in order to do this. To "beef up" your prayers, incorporate God's Word and promises. 3) When they got around to their request, they asked God to strengthen them so they could meet the situation and not avoid it. Most of the time today Christians ask God to change the circumstance instead of changing them. The result of this prayer is noted - the place (not the Christians) was shaken. The believers were once again filled with the Holy Spirit (See Acts 2:4 & Ephesians 5:18). When we are yielded and committed to God we are filled by his presence.

Now observe what occurred next. The believers were unified - "one in heart and mind." This caused them to share what they had with each other. Some even went so far as to sell their possessions and donated the funds to the Apostles- who then distributed where the needs existed. The outcome was that there were no needy persons among them. This voluntary action (see Acts 5:4) was true Christianity action. No wonder the Early Church had great power and much grace (Acts 4:33). The modern church needs to rediscover the actions and attitudes of the Early Church. We need to bring our "prayer and sharing" in line with what is described in the Book of Acts. Perhaps then we will see great numbers turning to Christ.

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Why Go to Church?

Why go to church? After all, we can worship God in other places. So why is it important to attend public worship services? The writer of the book of Hebrews gives us some reasons. "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching" (Hebrews 10:24-25).

When we come together we are instruction to take careful note of others so that we might stimulate them to love and do good deeds. Christians are to look out for others and not be preoccupied with themselves. Real joy comes when we give someone else a lift (Heb. 3:13). Love and good works have been the distinguishing marks of a Christian throughout the years (John 13:35 & Ephesians 2:10).

We are reminded not to neglect assembling together as some did then and others do today. Jesus and Paul each had the custom of going to the public meetings. (See Luke 4:16 & Acts 14:1). Regular attendance at the services should be a habit for us.

There are many reasons why people miss going to church. Some, of course, are providentially hindered by illness or extenuating circumstances. Radio and television programs help provide these individuals with spiritual blessings. However, an essential aspect of Christian meetings is the fellowship among believers, and this cannot be reproduced through the mass media. When we gather together, we are to encourage each other in the Christian life for this is true fellowship. (See Acts 11:23, 14:21, 22 & 20:1-2).

As the time for the Lord's return approaches, we are told that our meetings are even more important. The Bible informs us that in the last days, perilous times shall come and evil will abound. Therefore, Christians will need to meet more frequently to encourage one another more than ever before to love and do good works.

With all the economic problems stemming from the downsizing pressure, natural disasters and the news about terrorist attacks, on top of the regular stress of daily living, this is certainly true for today.

Saturday, July 30, 2011

Putting First Things First

One of our most difficult problems is deciding the priorities of life and implementing them daily. Putting first things first is a serious commitment for us all. Jesus said, "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well" (Matthew 6:33). In this verse, we notice things to be sought and things to be added.

First is the command to see two things: The Kingdom of God and His righteousness. The Kingdom of God is usually thought of as a future event. The Bible does speak about Christ's return and His rule and reign here on earth. However, the Kingdom exists now as a present reality with Christ ruling and reigning over the hearts and lives of all who have received Him as Savior and Lord. We are to seek being part of God's Kingdom as well as enlisting others.

We are to seek God's righteousness. The original word used here for righteousness means the sum total of God's requirements. God is holy and righteous. "All our righteous acts," whatever we may possess and produce, Scripture records, "are like filthy rags." (Isaiah 64:6). If we are to become righteous, then we must seek to attain God's righteousness. (See Romans 3:23).

Following the command is a promise that "all these things shall be added unto you." In order to understand what these other things are, we must pay attention to the preceding paragraph, "Do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?" (Matthew 6:25). In addition to these necessities, treasures on earth (luxuries) are spoken of. Much time and effort is expended by all of us seeking these two things. In these economic hard times, or indeed, anytime, we cannot afford to disregard this passage from the Word of God. Jesus has promised us that if we seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, the Father will add (in His time and at His discretion) all of these things (necessities and luxuries) to us.

Let's be frank and honest with ourselves and each other. Are we doing this - seeking and pursuing the Kingdom first? Is this the top priority for us as professing Christians? What proof would you offer? If there is little evidence or none - why? This is clearly a command that Jesus has given for all of us. How productive are we? How could we be more productive? How effective are we in advancing God's Kingdom (Christ's rule over our lives and others)? How could we be more effective? Our productivity and effectiveness can be enhanced if we are part of a ministry team. You can have more impact serving with others than going it alone.

If we could just grasp this truth and allow it to reorder our lives!! The Lord will provide for those who put first things first.

Thursday, June 30, 2011

Liberty, Not License

"Liberty," along with freedom, is frequently used more at July 4th just as the words "hope, peace and joy" are similarly used at Christmas and the New Year.

When we hear the word “liberty” our thoughts are usually of political freedom. However, in New England in the 1600’s “liberty” principally meant religious freedom. Our early settlers took the Bible quite seriously. “Liberty” in the Scriptures involves freedom from sin. In numerous passages, statements like this are made: “…because anyone who has died has been freed from sin.” “You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.” “But now that you have been set free from sin and you have become slaves to God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life.” (Romans 6:7,18,22).

The pilgrims, and those who followed them, came here desiring freedom to worship God according to the dictates of their own hearts. They wanted freedom to follow God’s will as they understood it. In order to gain this liberty, they went through a lot. First, they had to leave their homeland of England. Second, they endured great hardship in crossing the ocean in small vessels and thirdly, they faced the arduous task of carving out a settlement(s) in the North American wilderness. They did all this because they earnestly desired religious liberty. Our political liberty today is the result of their sacrifices. The Bible states “Where the spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Corinthians 3:17). Ironically, groups today are attempting to use our political freedom to restrict religious liberty of others.

Religious and political freedom was not perfect in the colonies or early America. For that matter it is not perfect today either. However, we must note that liberty does not necessarily ever mean total freedom to do any and everything. Even today there is a limit to liberty. This is a Biblical concept. The Word of God teaches that we are not to misuse our liberty at the expense of someone else. “You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love” (Galatians 5:13). “Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God” (1 Peter 2:16). “Be careful, however, that the exercise of your freedom does not become a stumbling block to the weak” (1 Corinthians 8:9).

Liberty does not mean license. Appreciate it and use it correctly. The abuse of liberty can be harmful to yourself and others. Liberty should not be taken lightly - it costs a great deal. We should dedicate ourselves to protect it and provide it for others.

Sunday, May 29, 2011

Prelude to Pentecost

Luke begins his second book, Acts, by describing the words and actions of Jesus before his ascension back to heaven (see Acts 1:1-11). In these eleven verses there are many things that a teacher or preacher could expound upon. For the purpose of this message, I would like to point out three or four things.

First of all, there is the important matter of Christ's resurrection. Luke states that "after his suffering," he convinced them that he was alive. Jesus did this by the following: a) "He showed himself to them" (v.3). Jesus appeared before them personally. He was literally present and visible. b) "He gave many convincing proofs" (v.3). Among the things he did was to show them his hands and his feet. The nail marks from the crucifixion were clearly evident to them. He invited them to "touch me and see" (Luke 24:39). He went on to say, "A ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have." c) Jesus "appeared to them over a period of forty days" (Acts 1:3). These numerous meetings further underscore that this was not one or two appearances that they might have just imagined his presence. d) On one occasion, he ate with them (Acts 1:4); "Do you have anything here to eat?" he asked. "They gave him a piece of broiled fish and he took it and ate it in their presence" (Luke 24:41-43). This is something that a ghost does not do! The fact that the disciples needed to be convinced is further proof of the resurrection. To a man they all came to believe it, even "doubting Thomas," and testified publicly that Jesus rose from the grave. All but John were eventually martyred for their beliefs and faith.

Secondly, Jesus instructed them again about the coming of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:4, 5, & 8). Before his crucifixion, Jesus had given them a lengthy lesson about the Holy Spirit (see John 14-16). No doubt they did not comprehend everything about the Spirit's new role the first time they heard it. What he emphasized here before he ascended was that they should "wait in Jerusalem for the gift my Father promised." In ten days this occurred with the filling of the believers by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. The point is that before the disciples began to carry out Christ's great commission to take the gospel into all the world they would need to be empowered by the Spirit. This is still necessary for Christians today.

Thirdly, Jesus told them, "You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth" (Acts 1:8). According to prophecy, the Gospel was to go forth first from Jerusalem (Isaiah 2:3, Luke 24:47). Then after being proclaimed, in the surrounding area, the message was to go to "all nations" (Matthew 28:19). This command remains in effect for Christ's disciples today. Our Jerusalem is wherever we live. Judea and Samaria represents our state and country and the "ends of the earth" simply means the whole world. We can and should personally witness wherever we are. We can carry out the missionary mandate by supporting others who are willing to leave their homes and carry the message abroad. Support involves our prayers and financial contributions.

In conclusion we notice that shortly before he left, Jesus disciples still were not clear about "the Kingdom." This is evident from their question, "Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom of Israel" (Acts 1:6). Note that Jesus did not delay his return to further instruct them about this. Christ's disciples need not have a complete and perfect knowledge of the Bible before they can be used by him for service.

Saturday, April 23, 2011

Overwhelming Evidence

All of the much publicized court cases in the past year or two have emphasized the importance of strong evidence. Luke in his introduction to the Book of Acts stated: "After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God" (Acts 1:3). It is significant to me that Luke, a physician, believed in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This was not the case initially with Christ's disciples. Though Jesus had told them on numerous occasions that He would go to Jerusalem, suffer and die, but come back to life, apparently this had not registered with the twelve. The disciples were clearly not expecting it and the women that went to the tomb did so to further attend to his body. No one woke up on the third day and thought to go looking for Him at the tomb or some other familiar place. When they heard reports that he had risen, they had to be convinced. Some went and checked it out for themselves and saw the empty tomb and the burial cloths. Even then one disciple, Thomas, doubted the reports until he was present a week later when Jesus appeared to his followers and invited him to touch him. All of this means more to me than that the disciples needed to be convinced.

Let us look at some other evidences: 1) The empty tomb with the big stone rolled away. While there were no eye witnesses to the actual resurrection, all of the gospel accounts testify that the tomb was vacant. 2) The angel's statement to the women that "He (Christ) has risen just as He said." Most people would be persuaded by such an experience! 3) The appearance of Jesus Himself. Christ appeared numerous times to many people in different locations (Jerusalem vicinity and Galilee). He spoke to them, he ate in front of them and he invited them to touch him--all this could not have been an figment of their imaginations.

Observe other proofs of the resurrection: 1) The disciples were unanimous in their belief that he had come back to life. They all testified and gave witness to the literal resurrection. All of the disciples but John died a martyr's death. Is it realistic to believe that they died for a lie, for something uncertain or for a conspiracy? 2) Two thousand years later, millions of Christians still believe the resurrection. Would a myth survive this test of time? Does not time usually reveal the truth? 3) You can still visit and see the empty tomb in Jerusalem. Thousands of Christians go every year to see it. 4) His body has never been found. The enemies of Christ could have debunked the "myth" by simply producing his dead body. The reason this has never occurred is quite simple. It's because he's alive! Christ has returned to the Father in Heaven after spending forty days on earth. 5) Jesus lives though the Holy Spirit in the hearts of all who truly believe. After accepting the Scriptures by faith, the reality of the resurrection is verified through his presence with us.

Why do Christians believe the resurrection? They do so because of the statements in Scripture, the witness of the apostles, and the teachings of the early church. It has always been the central point of the Gospel that Jesus died on the cross for the sins of the world and that through his resurrection there is the hope of life eternal. Why is this belief significant? The Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 15 stated that without the resurrection there is no hope; but because it is true, we have been forgiven and made alive. Romans 10:9-10 further emphasizes the importance of this truth: "If you declare with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved." Believe the overwhelming evidence and be saved!

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Why?

Recently our Church lost its long term and godly pastor to a protracted battle with cancer. The Church leadership and congregation had prayed fervently for his healing. God did not see fit to grant our request. This has led some to naturally question, "Why?"

Turning to the Word of God we find a passage that relates to this situation. John chapter eleven records the account of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. What occurred before that is particularly apropos.

Lazarus became ill and his sisters, Martha and Mary, sent word to Jesus that "the one you love is sick (v3). God does not need to be informed of anything but he does invite us to pray--to bring our requests before the throne. In this matter the Lord clearly knew about Lazarus' condition through his omniscience (as evidenced by his remarks to his disciples) and the message sent by the sisters. So the first point is that he knew.

Secondly, it is clear from the text that Lazarus was Christ's friend who he dearly loved (v5, v36). Jesus frequently visited the home of Mary, Martha and Lazarus while in Jerusalem. These individuals were very special people to the Lord. This relationship with him though did not prevent sickness and death.

Thirdly, it is apparent from the Scriptures that he could have healed Lazarus. The Gospels record many miraculous signs by the Master. If he did this for others, why did he not grant their request for healing? This is what many wrestle with when prayers appear to go unanswered.

The sisters confronted Jesus when he arrived in Bethany and said to him, "Lord, if you had been here my brother would not have died" (v21,v32). Why did he tarry in coming and why didn't he heal his friend Lazarus? Jesus clearly loved and cared about them (v33,v35,v38).

I believe we find the answers to these questions in the Bible. In this case, Jesus definitely had something better in mind that was a great benefit for his disciples (see v15,v40). When he raised Lazarus from the dead, he did something far greater than just heal him!

It is not always revealed to us what the "something better" (Hebrews 11:40) is going to be but Romans 8:28 promises us that "we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Believe this and be comforted.

Saturday, February 26, 2011

Passing Through Difficult Times

God’s relationship with Israel in Biblical times provides us with insight into His relationship with His people today. God is portrayed in Isaiah 43:1-3 as Creator, Redeemer and Protector. “But now, this is what the LORD says— he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: ‘Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.’”

God states that He created and formed Israel. God created (to make from nothing) His people through the call of Abraham and formed a nation by allowing them to experience tribulation and difficult times. Israel suffered in bondage in Egypt, wandered in the wilderness and struggled with her enemies during the occupation of the promised land. Through these hard times, God was molding a people He brought into existence. Likewise, God uses tribulation today to form and shape individuals. Life’s greatest lessons are often learned through difficult experience (see Romans 5:3-5 & I Corinthians 10:13).

Having created and formed Israel, God also claimed that He redeemed (means to buy back) them. This was necessary because mankind, being sinful, wanders from and rebels against God. He calls us, by name, back to Himself. The New Testament makes it plain that He has redeemed us through the death of His son Jesus Christ on the cross. When we accept by faith Christ’s payment for our sins and respond in obedience to His call, we experience redemption. God is then not only our Creator and Redeemer but he also becomes our Protector.

References are made in these verses to God’s acts of protection when the children of Israel passed through the water of Red Sea to escape the army of Egypt’s Pharoah. They also crossed through the Jordan River when they entered Canaan and the three Hebrew children were delivered from the fire of Nebuchadnezzar’s furnace in Babylon.

Notice that belonging to God does not preclude difficulties and suffering. What God does promise is to be with us during those times of trials. The Author of Hebrews quoted Moses’ words of comfort to Israel and its leader Joshua: “The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged” (Deuteronomy 31:8).

Monday, January 31, 2011

Model Families

Model families, like model parents, are not perfect; none are. The question is not whether we have a model family made up of really fine members but what kind of person are we? What would your family be like if everyone were like you? Would you want relatives like yourself? The reason that this is the proper question to consider is because the only person we have direct control over is ourselves. We cannot change other people. We can change ourselves (with God's help) and as a result have indirect effect on others.

With these thoughts in mind, let us shift from thinking about our physical families to the spiritual family--the Church. All who have God as their Father have each other as brothers and sisters. Together we belong to God's household or the family of God (see John 1:12, 1 Timothy 3:15). The Church is to be a model family for all who are entering it, for those who are part of it, and as a witness to outsiders. We are supposed to be different. We are to represent the new reality of being "in Christ." As with your physical family, what would your spiritual family be like if everyone in it were just like you? Would it be a better church if everyone were like you?

Families consist of a variety of people; young and old and in between, male and female, mature and immature. Larger extended families often include people of different ethnic backgrounds and races. The Church consists of a wide variety of people in a range of ages, personalities, and diverse backgrounds. This is a good sign that we are inclusive and reaching out; but it is also a challenge. Dealing with similarities is easier; differences can be more difficult--even a stretch. The world needs to see and have modeled for it family life. This is definitely a need today and where else will they see it if not in the church? Forget the media--they generally fail to show functioning families and what they do portray (individuals, singles, couples) is often negative. Like a physical family, God has provided people who are mature or grownup and who have the responsibility of providing support and direction. The leadership of the Church (pastors, elders and deacons) function like parents (see 1 Timothy 3:1-13; Hebrews 13:7,17). Along with church officers there are also the older and more mature members who have the responsibility of training the younger ones (see Titus 2:1-15). This should occur in our various groups as well as through personal relationships.

Lastly, everyone is to be considerate of each other (see Philippians 2:1-4). We are to model Christ's attitude and conduct. We are to work for the good of the whole family and seek unity (see Ephesians 2:1-4). Are we doing this? Jesus' great concern in Gethsemane was that the Church would be united as he and the Father were "one" (John 17:11,22). This should be our top priority, since it was His. Does your life reflect this?

Monday, January 3, 2011

Model Parents

Jesus' parents, Mary and Joseph, were in every way the ideal or model parents. From the material in the Gospels about Jesus' birth and early childhood, we can glean the following points: First of all, we will begin with their character. Mary was a young woman who was truly "highly favored" (Luke 1:28) by the Lord. Of all the women who ever lived and certainly of all the young women in her time, she alone was given the opportunity to be the mother of the Lord Jesus. Joseph, her betrothed, was a "righteous man" (Matthew 1:19). His intentions and his actions following the visit by the angel illustrate that he was a man who wanted to do things "right." The character of these two individuals before they actually became parents is why the Lord God selected them for this awesome responsibility.

Second, consider the actual birth of Jesus Christ. Mary carried him for nine months and delivered him in the same way that children normally enter the world. Joseph was there to provide and support her during their long trip from Nazareth to his birth in Bethlehem. Their having to travel and be away from home during this time made things extra difficult but they managed as young people to do the best that they could. Third, in his infancy, Mary provided his needs of food, clothing and love. No doubt Joseph did what he could to provide for Jesus and his mother's needs. On the eighth day, they took him to the temple in Jerusalem to be dedicated to the Lord (see Luke 2:22-24,27). Fourth, Jesus' parents went out of their way to protect the child from the evil King Herod. They journeyed to Egypt where they stayed until it was safe to return to their home in Nazareth. The reason they went to Egypt was because there was a large Jewish community there where they could find assistance. No doubt the gifts the wise men brought, especially the gold, helped them have the means to live and travel during this time. Parents today also need to protect their children from things that would be harmful such as violent video games, TV and movies that communicate wrong things, strangers and other things like pornography on the Internet along with gangs and drugs at school. Carroll O'Connor, an actor who lost a son to drugs, advises parents to "Do whatever it takes to get between your child and drugs. It is the parent's responsibility to protect their children as well as provide for them."

Last, Jesus' parents gave him an example to follow when they did the things that were "the custom of the Law" (Luke 2:27,42) and when they were careful to do "everything required by the Law" (Luke 2:39). By taking him to the synagogue for weekly worship, Jesus developed a pattern that would become a habit (Luke 4:16). They also took him to Jerusalem for the important feasts such as the Passover (see Luke 2:41). In addition to taking him to the synagogue and the temple, no doubt Jesus' parents consistently followed the teaching of the Word of God in their daily lives. In all of these things, Jesus' parents not only provided for him, but they gave an example for all parents to follow.