We, as human beings with free moral choice, have always had to make the choice between serving God or the world. In a discussion with Pontius Pilate, Jesus indicates this distinction between the world and God’s kingdom as recorded in John 18: 36, 37.

   “Jesus answered, ‘My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then my servants would be fighting, that I might not be delivered up to the Jews; but as it is, My kingdom is not of this realm.’ Pilate therefore said to Him, ‘So you are a king?’ Jesus answered, ‘You say correctly that I am a king. For this I have been born, and for this I have come into the world, to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice.’”

For those of us who have heard the truth, and believed it, serve within the kingdom of Christ as members of His church. There is the possibility of being tempted by the world and on occasion find ourselves pulled back into that great influence that surrounds us. The warning to not love the world (1 John 2: 15- 17) is ever before us but sadly there are times that we succumb to that deceptive power that seems right. It is true that many times we are most comfortable with the majority even when that majority is wrong.

The start of World War 2 caught isolationist America by surprise. The sneak attack of Imperial Japan at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 left an unprepared nation in virtually a panic mixed with an almost indescribable outpouring of patriotism. All sorts of conspiracy theories were generated by word of mouth along with news generated by radio and the printed page. Chief among these “news flashes” was a bombing of California by Japanese aircraft along with an imminent invasion by the Japanese army; none of which was true.

The upshot of all of the political posturing of the time resulted in the Executive Order 9066, signed by the President (FDR), on February 19, 1942, for the detention/incarceration of 114,000 men, women, and children of Japanese ancestry from the west coast. A primary argument for this seizure of property and movement of people was offered up by the military commander of the Western Defense Command, Lt. General John L. DeWitt. His rationale is best summed up in this his statement, “The very fact that no sabotage has taken place to date is a disturbing and confirming indication that such action will be taken.” WOW!

That is like a father saying to his son, “Son, I’m going to give you a whipping now because I’m sure you will be bad sometime in the future.” There is no doubt that those were uncomfortable and panic producing times full of uncertainty and much confusion.

We are living in an uncomfortable, uncertain and confusing time. Political confusion reigns. Conspiracy theories abound. Racial problems have once again come to the fore-front. Question abound as to what our direction needs to be.

Let’s make sure that as God’s children we rise above the confusion of the world and hang on to one another. We need to make sure that our major source of information remains that of God’s Word. Our mission is to take the gospel into a lost and dying world and that is a world of all human beings regardless of ethnicity.

        “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.”          Romans 1:16

Dave Chamberlin

Because I’m a guy, I must hold the television remote control in my hand while I watch TV.  If the thing has been misplaced, I’ll miss a whole show looking for it, though one time I was able to survive by holding a calculator.

Because I’m a guy, when I lock my keys in the car I will fiddle with a wire clothes hanger and ignore your suggestions that we call a road service until long after hypothermia has set in.  Oh, and when the car isn’t running very well, I will pop the hood and stare at the engine as if I know what I’m looking at.  If another guy shows up, one of us will say to the other, “I used to be able to fix these things, but now with all these computers and everything, I wouldn’t know where to start.”

Because I’m a guy, when I catch a cold I need someone to bring me soup and take care of me while I lie in bed and moan.  You never get as sick as I do, so for you this isn’t an issue.

Because I’m a guy, I can be relied upon to purchase basic groceries at the store, like milk, or bread.  I cannot be expected to find exotic items like “Cumin” or “Tofu.”  For all I know these are the same thing.

Because I’m a guy, when one of our appliances stops working I will insist on taking it apart, despite evidence that this will just cost me twice as much once the repair person gets here and has to put it back together.

Because I’m a guy, I don’t think we’re all that lost, and no, I don’t think we should stop and ask someone.  Why would you listen to a complete stranger — how in the world could HE know where we’re going?

Because I’m a guy, whatever you got your mother for Mother’s Day is ok, I don’t need to see it.  Did you remember to pick up something for my mom, too?

Because I’m a guy, you don’t have to ask me if I liked the movie.  Chances are, if you’re crying at the end of it, I didn’t.

Because I’m a guy, I think what you’re wearing is fine.  I thought what you were wearing five minutes ago was fine, too.  Either pair of shoes is fine.  With the belt or without it looks fine.  Your hair is fine.  You look fine.  Can we just go now?

Because I’m a guy and this is, after all, the 21st century, I will share equally in the housework.  You do the laundry, the cooking, the cleaning, and the dishes.  I’ll do the rest.

It does seem that a lot of behavior on the part of men can be explained with the simple phrase “it’s because I’m a guy — that says it all”.

Likewise, a lot of the behavior we as Christians exhibit in the workplace, at home, or at school, should be explainable by the phrase, “it’s because I’m a child of God”.  That says it all — that’s why I do what I do and say what I say.

“But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.” (1 Peter 2:9-10)

When people wonder about our actions, they should be able to look at our lives and say, “Oh yes, he acts that way because he’s a Christian.”  Whether they appreciate it or not, may they see that Christ truly does make a difference in the way we live.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith

In matters of sexuality, the church is reflecting the world. Even to use the term “sexual immorality” is to sound as if one is from another galaxy.

I get it. We’re lonely and broken, and the promise of health and healing is held out to those contemplating extramarital relationships. The single Christian wonders if he will ever enjoy the pleasures of sexual intimacy. Married Christians seek something more in other relationships. As one woman proclaimed: “I’m happy with (this other man), and God wants me to be happy, doesn’t he?”

Yes, our society lies when it speaks of sex. These lies seep into our consciousness slowly but surely. Funnily enough, these lies are at least three thousand years old, for the Wise Man of Proverbs pointed them out:

• The first lie is that true fulfillment cannot be found in a committed, life-long relationship: “Drink water from your own cistern,” the wise man counters: “Be intoxicated always with [your wife’s] love (Proverbs 5:15-18).
• A second lie is that instant gratification is sweet and fulfilling: The wise man astutely describes the allure of her eyes and seductive words (Proverbs 6:5), but adds, “at the end of your life you groan” (Proverbs 5:11). Though the promise is bright and right there to be had, there is also the regret that follows, often a lifetime of regret.
• In an illicit affair, nice people offer the healing and sweetness your heart desires. A man actually told me that the woman he was having an affair with was “more spiritual” than his wife. She was categorically not spiritual! Those who cheat on their spouses are not nice people. They are selfish and do not care who they hurt (You? Your spouse? Your children? Your family and friends? Your church?). And the same ones who so casually break others’ hearts will walk callously away from you. The Wise Man notes that “many a victim she has laid low, and all her slain are a mighty throng” (Proverbs 7:26). Guess you weren’t so special after all!
• Another lie is that the man who has multiple sexual relationships is some kind of hero, a “cool,” suave ladies’ man who elicits the grudging admiration of others. The wise man counters that such a man is dumb as an ox and intelligent as a loaf of bread. In any culture neither is a thing to attain (Proverbs 7:22).
• These illicit relationships promise the sun and the moon but deliver only dust and regret. The woman in Proverbs promises luxury (Egyptian linen!), “delight” and complete secrecy. Her words (and no doubt her physical appearance) are seductive. But like a bird or a deer, he is walking right into a trap (Proverbs 7:23).
• Another lie is that all this can be done anonymously, that no one will find out. The Wise Man reminds us, however, that the Lord knew all along: “For a man’s ways are before the eyes of the Lord, and he ponders all his paths” (Proverbs 5:21).

The world tells us that the primary goal of life, especially in sexual matters, is self-fulfillment, and all other considerations are to bow down to that one throne. The sexual relationship is more an object to be acquired than a bond between two people who love each other exclusively. Common though it may be, these sensual lies are sure to break us and fail us.

Stan Mitchell

While teaching at the school, within a few days of a new class beginning, someone would say, or maybe two or three would say, “I can’t do memory work”  or “I can’t remember things for very long.”

Now because they have never done a lot of memory work, they assumed they couldn’t. I always ask them a few questions. Some laughed of course, but everyone got the point.

I would ask, “What is your new phone number?” ( No cell phones back then) “What is your new address?” Or I would ask, “Did you come to school on your own or did you need to follow someone.”

Well, of course, they knew their phone number, their address, and they didn’t need to follow someone to school.  So I would say something like, “See, you have a good memory.”

I would also mention things like childhood stories and events. Or what about songs they had never really studied but knew the words. And what about the words from a few TV commercials, everyone knows a few.

So what’s the point? Memory work is really just a matter of exposure. We hear preachers and Bible class teachers week after week quote scripture like they had a CD in their brain. But you know they don’t, it is just exposure over and over. Of course, the more you involved with reading and studying  the more you will remember.

Here are a few of the ways that daily Bible reading, and study, will help you in your daily walk with God and your battle with sin.

1. You will know how God wants you to live.
2. You will know when you are not following His way.
3. You will be able to recall words of encouragement.
4. You will be able to give words of encouragement to others.
5. You will be able to focus on the goal, heaven.
6. You will be able to help others have the same focus.

II Timothy 2:15, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.”

I Peter 3:15, “but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence;”

Philippians 4:4-9, “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

Will, there be hard and difficult times? Of course, there will. But the good news is we know the end of the story. The faithful will spend eternity with God in heaven. So read a few verses each and be encouraged.

God knows the end of all things and so can you.

The difference is He knows when. So be ready.

Dick Brant

• It is about “bringing” the lost to Jesus.
• It is about “clinging” to God’s Holy Word.
• It is about “flinging” away temptations when they come.
• It is about “ringing” out the gospel message.
• It is about “singing” praises to a wonderful God.
• It is about “springing” forth words and works that encourage others.
• It is about “stringing” together actions that please God and are an example to others.
• It is about “swinging” into action to help others.
• It is about “winging” our way to heaven when Jesus comes back.

  By Edd Sterchi

Dozens of portraits depict Jesus with a crown of thorns crucified on a cross. In all of them, there is the look of pain and sorrow accompanied by such a long and painful death.

What we don’t see in any of these portraits is Jesus’ joy.

Yes, that’s right. Joy.

Humans always equate sorrow with pain and death. Have you ever thought death could bring joy?

The writer of the book of Hebrews wrote, “For the joy set out for him he endured the cross, disregarding its shame” (Hebrews 12:2b NET). One may ask the question: “What joy?”

Jesus’ death produced forgiveness of sins. His death made possible the cleansing of the human conscience from sin (Hebrews 10:22; 1 Peter 3:21). Christ’s suffering and death and the shedding of his blood made our righteousness possible (2 Corinthians 5:21; Philippians 3:9). All of this resulted from the son of God’s sacrifice on the cross. All these must have given Jesus joy.

There is one other answer. Again from the writer of Hebrews we have this: “For it fitted for him, for whom and through whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, to make the pioneer of their salvation perfect through sufferings” (Hebrews 2:10 NET). Jesus’ suffering and death made it possible for him to bring “many sons to glory.”

My wife and I felt such great joy when our children were born. It is a feeling that is unparalleled in human life. How many “sons” has Jesus given the father? By now, the number is in the tens or hundreds of thousands and still growing. Jesus knew his death would make it possible to give God the obedient sons he always wanted.

God loved us so much he wanted us to become his sons. He gave his only son to die to make that a reality! By the inspiration of God, the apostle Paul in the books of Romans and Galatians extolled the will of God in giving Jesus on the cross to make beloved sons of all who obey the gospel. So, there was joy at the cross!

John Henson

I’ve been there. January first, you sit down and read the first five chapters or so of Genesis and you think to yourself, “this will be the year I make it through the entire Bible.” Some time later you find yourself mindlessly scanning the endless genealogies of Numbers. With improbable name pronunciations, repetitive phrases, and mind numbing details, you put your Bible down, scarcely to resume the daily schedule. Reading your Bible is SO important; but why is it hard?

I’d like to address some problems I have had in my studies which have debilitated my daily practice. While doing this, it is my aim that these points can aid you in your personal study of God’s Word.

First, your Bible reading shouldn’t be a checklist item, but a blessing. When practices become part of a checklist rather than a desire, your heart will become distant from the effort. Take driving for example. I drive to work everyday and it’s simply a checklist item of my daily routine. However, I can remember the excitement I had when I first got behind the wheel. I’m guessing my face said it all, because my mom was trying to mash the brake pedal from the passenger seat. When you first begin to drive, it’s a blessing. Once it becomes part of your daily grind, it can sometimes be burdensome. I believe the same can happen with daily Bible reading. So how do we reverse that? Here are some tips to desire the Word:

1. It will benefit your life; guaranteed (Ps. 119:105) – The more of the Word you know, the more your path will be illuminated.
2. It will allow you to hear God (2 Tim. 3:16) – There have been many times where I think, “man I wish I could hear God speak right now.” Not going to lie, I still have that desire from time to time. However, He spoke to the prophets, the fathers, the apostles, and His son. His Son was perhaps the biggest megaphone He used but guess what all those significant figures did with those words? Wrote them down! For us! God decided the totality of scripture was enough that there didn’t need to be another revelation. We’ve got the answers, we just need to start digging.

Second, your Bible reading should be fascinating, not boring. This is unlike any other book (Rev. 1:19) – the Apostle John was given a command to “write the things which you have seen.” I understand that particular passage is speaking about the book of Revelation, but the principle applies to the rest of the Bible. The writers were simply writing down their experiences, and God’s Spirit was helping them to do so with accuracy and significance.

1. Layout, layout, layout (John 20:30,31) – each book has its purpose. For example, why do we need four gospels? They each serve their purpose and their aim. For example, Matthew lays his gospel out in a way that would appeal to the Jewish mind and prove to them the Jesus is Lord, and His Kingdom is coming. Perhaps before diving into a study of a book, it would be of great benefit to look at how it is laid out. This will help you maintain a grip on what section of the book you’re in. You can’t always rely on chapters and verses to make appropriate section breaks.
2. Timeline – One must keep in mind that the Bible is not in chronological order. This goes back to each book having its own purpose. Sometimes it can be a bit overwhelming to try and keep up with all the names and events. A couple tools can help you keep track of this. A journal is a great friend to your bible in your daily readings. For example, when going through the Kings, you can write down “King Ahab – coward, spoiled brat, always wants his way. Married to the wicked Jezebel.” Second, I have found some benefit of looking at chronological Bibles. We in western culture love when things are in order and this can help aid that preference.
3. Find the point – That genealogy you’re reading? It serves a purpose. Often times, genealogies can help us see God’s providence. For example, take 2 Kings 11. Joash was in the warpath of his crazy grandma, Athaliah. She was making an attempt to wipe out the royal family in order for her to keep her status as queen. If Joash died in this massacre of hers, the lineage of David would’ve stopped. So what? Well, without David’s lineage, Christ couldn’t be the Messiah (2 Sam. 7; Matt. 1).

At this point, this article is 768 words long. I wish I could continue talking about why reading your Bible is more than a cliche you hear in Sunday morning class. Rather than polluting your mind with my thoughts, I want to challenge you to begin reading your Bible more adamantly and to keep track of how it influences your life. This article is partially inspired by a friend of mine who reads God’s Word every morning. They’ve explained to me there is no better way to start the day and have gone on to show me several things that I hadn’t seen before. God has blessed us with a little piece of His mind that we call the Bible. What an opportunity it is to dive deeper into it!

Tyler King

Start Right 

    Many times a young couple makes the decision to marry shortly after college days are over. Along with that extremely important decision, other decisions are made. The couple may decide to buy a home. They also may make decisions pertaining to furniture and automobiles.

What I especially want to emphasize is that if a young couple bites off more than they can chew, a lifetime of giving is nearly squashed from the very beginning. Young people need to understand the importance of giving before they enter the work force and they marry. Young people must be taught that some things are more important than things! They need to understand that they do not have to begin their new life at or above the level of mom and dad.

Julie (my wife) and I have fond memories of the tiny one bedroom house we rented when we first got married. (It set us back $150 per month!) That residence was a blessing to us. We have such fond memories and look back on it now and see that it was perfect for the occasion.

If we, and especially young people, aren’t careful, a few bad decisions can cripple giving for a lifetime. When we get ourselves in a situation where we struggle to meet our obligations, it is very doubtful that we will give as we should. May we have the wisdom to understand that happiness and faithfulness to God are not dependent on what we have. In fact, many times, “less is more.”

Daren Schroeder

• We’d socially distance from those who might expose us to it (1 Cor. 15:33)
• We’d understand its potentially deadly nature (Jas. 1:14; Rom. 6:23)
• We’d want to do what we could to be protected from it (Acts 2:38)
• We’d try to warn everyone to take precautions against it (Luke 24:46-47)
• We’d listen to the experts (2 Tim. 3:16-17)
• We would avoid its “hot spots” (Rom. 13:12-14)
• We wouldn’t want to expose those we care about to it (Luke 17:1)
• It would completely affect our habits and routine (1 Pet. 2:11)

–Neal Pollard

–Teddy Roosevelt and compare Rom. 12:6; 2 Cor. 10:12; Phil. 4:11-12

Dear Gideon,

I see you, hands pressed on the glass door of your house, gazing at the passing trash truck. The truck driver is your little boy hero. And so he should be. You are obsessed with planes, cars and trucks as only a three-year-old boy would be. I see how gentle you are with your little sister. And I see the spark of mischief in your eyes.

Did you know that your great, great grandfather was a rancher not far from where you live in Oklahoma? He and his wife began a search for a church that would teach what they read in the Bible. When they found that church, they served it for the rest of their lives. He was a quiet man, a man strong in convictions and faith. His name was Ross, your great, great grandmother was Grace. The church referred to them as “Amazing Grace and Old Rugged Ross.” I remember them, well into their 70s going out and visiting “elderly people” and shut ins.

Did you know that your great-grandfather and grandmother were missionaries? You will learn this in time. They went to Africa, braving snakes and droughts and dictators. Grandmother Donna cooked on a wood stove (I know, I had to split wood to fit the stove). Loy Mitchell, your great-grandfather was a powerful preacher. He could have preached for an American congregation of a thousand, but he preached to tribesmen instead, on a rock, under a tree. But you should know that over the decades those tribesmen multiplied until several Zimbabwean churches numbered several hundred, too. I wish you could have heard his rich bass voice singing hymns in the Shona language.

You already know that your father is a preacher. You see him proclaim the gospel every Sunday. You probably think that is normal. It is not. Many men do not stand for Jesus, do not speak on his behalf. You’re lucky to have a father like that.

But did you know that his father, your grandfather, was a missionary to Canada? You will know that, too, one day. And that his father, Bill Watts, was a missionary in New Zealand? Young missionaries looked up to him and sought his counsel, his wisdom. I know, because men well into their 70s now have told me so.

Dear Gideon, I don’t know if you will grow up to be a preacher, president or policeman. But I do hope, I hope with all my heart, that you grow up to be a Christian, that you will stand tall for what God desires. It will not be easy. I can already tell that our society is growing antagonistic to Christian convictions. You will have to be brave and strong as these other men in your life were brave and strong. You have a rich heritage. That heritage is a blessing beyond price. One day, Gideon, when you put away your matchbox cars and toy fire truck, you will know.

“Grandchildren are the crown of the aged, and the glory of children is their fathers” (Proverbs 17:6).

Dear Gideon, I love you,
Your grandfather.

Stan Mitchell

When Jesus was invited to a meal, the whole neighborhood might come. The common people wanted to see and hear Jesus, a rabbi who was often in conflict with the Pharisees. When Jesus was invited to dine with a Pharisee, it was one part evening entertainment and one part religious instruction.

When Jesus came to dine at Simon’s house (Luke 7:36-50), word spread. A woman who is identified as “a sinner” comes to see Jesus. But she is not content with standing on the periphery, or peering in to get a fleeting glimpse. She moves through the crowd to the feet of the Savior. Weeping, she wipes the tears off his feet with her hair, kisses his feet, and pours over them expensive ointment.

The reaction by Simon was one of disgust and rejection. He rejects Jesus as a prophet because he certainly doesn’t know who is touching him for she is a sinner (Luke 7:39).

Jesus was not adverse to eating with Pharisees (see Luke 11:37; 14:1), nor with so-called “sinners” (see Matthew 9:10). It was his willingness to dine with others that served as an excuse to reject him (Luke 7:34). Yet these false allegations did not cause Jesus to abandon those who needed him. When questioned, Jesus said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance” (Luke 5:30-32 ESV).

The meal with Simon displays the vast chasm between those who think themselves righteous, and the sinners whom Jesus calls to himself. The difference between Simon and this sinful woman was not in how God saw them (for they were both sinners in need of a Savior), but in how they saw themselves.

After a simple parable, where Jesus illustrates the power of appreciation for sin and forgiveness, Jesus asks Simon if he sees the woman. Of course Simon had seen her! The whole dinner party had seen her. The whole crowd had seen her. In Simon’s mind she has both ruined his dinner party and exposed Jesus as a fraud.

But that is the problem. He doesn’t really see her, not as Jesus does. Simon sees a nuisance, a sinner to be dismissed and discarded. Jesus sees a penitent heart who is full of remorse for her past sins and gratitude for the forgiveness she has been granted.

“Therefore I tell you, her sins, which were many, are forgiven, thus she loved much; but the one who is forgiven little loves little” (Luke 7:47 NET).

While Simon treated Jesus with great disrespect, this woman has done what she could for the incarnate God. She has been forgiven much and she has loved much.

What Simon did not realize is that if we have been forgiven at all, we have been forgiven much.

There is only one Savior, and there are only two types of people: Those like Simon, and those like the sinful woman. The former are self-righteous and see nothing of their own sinfulness nor their need for forgiveness. The later recognize the greatness of God and the depth of their inadequacies before him. They grasp the damage that sin has done, and the healing that forgiveness brings.

Which person are you?

May we all see ourselves as Jesus does. May we all see Jesus as this woman does.

Lee Parish

Crucifixion was Rome’s way of dealing with people it didn’t like. Crucifixion was Rome’s way of dealing with enemies. Its gruesome nature was a part of Rome telling people they’d best behave or they might find themselves hanging from a cross one day.

Jesus had a discussion with his disciples that put the figure of the cross front and center. In Luke 9, Jesus told the men following him that if they were his disciples, they must deny self and take up a cross. The condemned was required to carry his own cross to the place of execution. The figure is clear.

Risk has always been a part of following Jesus. Roman disciples of Jesus were taken to the Coliseum where they were torn apart by lions or crucified or burned. The apostle Paul was arrested by the Jews in Jerusalem at the Temple, sent to the Roman governor in Caesarea and appealed to Caesar. Later, he was arrested again and was killed. Most of Jesus’ apostles met their deaths while serving God.

Yet today many people are convinced that becoming a member of a church is more like a rite of passage for a social club than carrying a cross. But there are still places in the world where serving Jesus could bring one a jail sentence or even a beating.

Yes, there is still opposition to the truth of God’s word. In the United States, it may not manifest itself in imprisonment or beatings, but there are other ways true disciples can suffer for believing and teaching the truth of God’s word. There are economic and social pressures that are as devastating as physical punishment.

Following Jesus as a faithful disciple is worth the cost. It is worth it because inside of every person is an immortal soul. Carrying a cross is every bit as daunting now as it was in the days of Roman crucifixion but “heaven will surely be worth

John Henson

To encourage us with the knowledge that, even though we are “strangers” to the present world-system, we are eternally-loved friends of God.

As New Testament Christians faithfully serve God, we often find ourselves at odds with the world. Peter wrote this letter to encourage Christians undergoing just such struggles, and he began it by noting that, while they were strangers in the world, they were God’s special friends. These two themes run through his letter.

“To those who reside as aliens, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, who are chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood: May grace and peace be yours in the fullest measure.”

STRANGERS IN THE WORLD – 1:1:

The term “aliens” was a familiar term to the Jews. The Jews outside Palestine where known as the Dispersion or Diaspora (scattered) Jews. In most places, they were outcasts to their neighbors, closely bound to each other, and under severe pressure to sacrifice their faith for peace with their environment.

Peter applies “aliens” here to Christians. Christians are also strangers in the world but not without purpose. They are commissioned strangers: “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light” (2:9). They have a mission in their hostile environment, and they should be aware of that mission at all times.

Christians are to be holy strangers in carrying out their mission (2:11-15; 4:1-5). The holy life, even under stress, is an important attraction to others who are disposed to receive the gospel.

Christians are to be ready strangers: “Who is there to harm you if you prove zealous for what is good? But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed. And do not fear their intimidation, and do not be troubled, but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence; and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ will be put to shame. For it is better, if God should will it so, that you suffer for doing what is right rather than for doing what is wrong” (3:13-17).

When Christians suffer, yet do right, they are often given opportunity to bear witness to their hope in Christ. When God gives such an opportunity, believers are to be ready to speak – with gentleness toward their hearers, and reverence toward God.

Christians may have to be suffering strangers (4:12-19). If it comes to this, they are to entrust their souls to God, the faithful Creator, and persevere in well-doing.

FRIENDS KNOWN ETERNALLY AND WELL-LOVED BY GOD:

Although Christians are strangers in the world, they may take courage in the fact that they were known and loved by God from eternity, and that all aspects of their faith and life are under His benevolent control.

God planned and foreknew the way of their salvation (1:9-12).

God planned and foreknew their conversion from among the Gentiles (2:9-10).

God knew and planned before their begetting (1:3).

God planned before and knew their preservation by His power through faith (1:4-9).

God planned and foreknew their full maturity or perfection (5:9-10).

God planned and foreknew their final inheritance in heaven (1:3-5).

God’s people are not at home in this world. They are outsiders to its values, goals, and systems. But they are not the losers, for they are friends of God known and loved by him. Let us be strong therefore to serve God well, no matter what the cost! With God on our side, we will be eternal winners.

late Wayne E. Holland
a sermon preached in:
Hayesville, NC 7/25/82
Roxboro, NC 11/16/88
Henderson, NC 6/28/98

In the know

“Then the one whose name was Cleopas answered and said to Him, ‘Are you the only stranger in Jerusalem, and have you not known the things which happened there in those days?’ ” (Luke 24:18 NKJV).

Tourists and travelers often do not read the local newspapers, nor watch local news on television. Even if they want to know what is going on in their present location they may not speak the language or have access to dependable sources. For one who rises to watch a national news program and goes to bed with the local broadcast, it is something of a shock to have no idea of just what is happening where he or she is.

I have always been fascinated by the disciple’s reaction to Jesus’ apparent lack of knowledge of the events which were so important to the twelve and their associates (Luke 24:13-17). Cleopas’ response reveals truths which apply to us as well. Consider the following.

First, we recognize that my important news may have little meaning to others. The Palestinian Jews of the first century were consumed with Messianic Expectations. Those centered on their belief that God would send his Anointed King, from the Davidic lineage, to win independence for the people of Israel and establish his great kingdom. Even Hellenistic Jews (those living elsewhere in the Greco- Roman world) were not nearly so concerned with Judean or Palestinian independence. Cleopas could not comprehend that “everybody did not know” about the crucifixion of Christ. The fact was that at the moment, from a purely secular viewpoint, it just was not that big a deal except in Palestine. (Obviously, with the resurrection, it became a huge deal to everyone, everywhere). When I go to Asia during an American election year, for example, I find that others are not nearly so interested in talking about it as I may be. That is my news, but it is not so much theirs.

Second, we learn that ignorance of local events may handicap us while we are among them. Jesus seemed to them to be confused by their conversation. Sometimes the problem is much more severe than just the inability to join the talk of others. I was in Kathmandu, Nepal when eleven members of the Royal family were assassinated in 2001. There were soon demonstrations escalating to near riots. Curfews were imposed, sometimes effective within only an hour or so of the announcement. Needless to say, I made sure to stay in constant touch with those who could update me on the state of affairs. When in another place, what is important to me may not matter to them, but what matters to them is likely to affect me in important ways.

Third, one’s knowledge of local matters, or lack thereof, is revealing of his identity. If I belong in a certain culture, I am expected to know pertinent facts about that culture. Its history, values, conventions, and manners are necessary to smooth relationships and interactions. Lack of knowledge of those things will identify us as a stranger or one who is uninformed. However, it may also cause us to commit breaches of etiquette or even crimes. Consequences can range from mild embarrassment to fines or imprisonment.

The obvious stranger may be excused for some of the milder offenses, but the fact is that if one plans to spend much time in a different culture, he or she is well advised to learn as much about its laws and customs as is possible. Such knowledge may save the traveler from trouble. Many of us remember the American teenager who thought it would be funny to scratch cars in a major Asian city but received a caning as punishment. What was a joke to him was serious vandalism to local authorities.

Perhaps of even more importance, local knowledge equips the visitor for a more productive and enjoyable experience. When we can converse meaningfully with our hosts about things that matter to them we quickly form better relationships. When we know at least a little of local geography, political/legal conditions, and culture we can appreciate what we see and hear more completely. Basic knowledge helps us know how to pack, what clothes to wear, and what accessories to take.

All of this has a direct spiritual application as well. Christians have their own customs, laws, values, and habits. Those of the world often do not know or understand these things. Peter remarked, “In regard to these (people of the world), they think it strange that you do not run with them in the same flood of dissipation, speaking evil of you” (1 Peter 4:4). What we sometimes forget is that new disciples come from that strange foreign (to Spiritual matters) world. They are no longer strangers; now they belong to God’s people, bound by the same principles. Let those who are more mature recognize their need to be gently and patiently taught those things that we have long known. Their continued growth and faithfulness may depend upon such teaching.

Michael Brooks

Changing the “Norms”

A while back we pulled into an “old-fashioned” gas station in a small town. An attendant was waiting at the pump to serve us. He took our order, and while the gas was being pumped, he busied himself cleaning our windshield. The kids were shocked and kept saying, “He’s actually cleaning our windows!”  What used to be the “norm” is now so rare that it seems shocking!

The same sort of thing happens in religion. Over a period of time gradual and minor changes can lead folks far away from where they used to be. It finally gets to the point that what used to be the “norm” now seems odd, even shocking. Things that never would have been tolerated year’s ago were allowed to “creep in,” and now they have become totally accepted.

A good example of this gradual shift of “norms” can be seen in the matter of instrumental music. Few people realize that there was a great fight over this issue years ago – even among the denominations where it is now common. For instance, William Posey in his history entitled The Baptist Church in the Lower Mississippi Valley writes: “For years the Baptists fought the introduction of instrumental music into the churches … Installation of the organ brought serious difficulties in many churches.” But, if you talk to a Baptist today, he would think it very odd to even suggest a religious service without instrumental music. You see, the “norms” have changed!

It can happen to us, too – and it is. Simply observe how brethren talk and dress, where they go and what they do. Try to call them back to what used to be the “norm,” and they will treat you as if you are crazy! It is apparent that many are allowing gradual changes to take them farther and farther away from the absolutes that God has stated in His Word.

We need to “ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein” (Jer. 6:1 6) – and stop drifting from God’s “norms.” Think!

– by Greg Gwin

I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live (Deuteronomy 30:19 ESV).

This choice, presented thousands of years ago to a nascent nation about to enter an unknown land, is still ours today.

God has always given us choices. We can choose between that which is of God and that which is of the world (Joshua 24:15-22). We can choose the way of faithfulness (Psalm 119:30) or the way of darkness. We can choose the better, timelier things (Luke 10:42) or be allured by lesser, flashier things (Genesis 13:11).

What we cannot be is neutral. We might choose to be agnostic, but our choice leads us away from truth. We may choose to not think on spiritual things, but our choice leads us to the world.

Neil Peart once wrote, “If you choose not to decide, you still have made a choice.”/1 The fundamental power of choice was given to us by God, yet so many go through life essentially ignoring this great gift.

Even in their indifference, these directionless people still are choosing. They are choosing to walk through life blind. They are choosing death. Indecision is dangerous. Life-long purposeful indecision is deadly.

Choices have consequences. Some choices have small consequences. If you have tea instead of water for lunch today it may not matter much for eternity. Some choices have larger consequences. Choosing to be more like Christ today could echo through eternity. Being Christ-like throughout your life could have generational consequences. You may impact the lives of countless people that you will never meet.

The ultimate choice, as presented to the Israelites, is between life and death. As the New Testament makes clear, the choice is between heaven and hell.

• This choice is personal. We cannot enter the heavenly realm on the goodness of our spouse, parents, children, or friends (2 Corinthians 5:10).
• This choice is pressing. We know not what tomorrow may bring (James 4:13, 14).
• This choice is permanent. Once our lives are completed, there will be no time for edits, no rewrites (Luke 16:19-31). The choice we make will stay with us for all eternity (Matthew 25:46).

Choice is inescapable and powerful. Choose carefully, prayerfully, and faithfully.

1/ “Freewill,” Rush, Permanent Waves, Mercury, 1980

Lee Parish

A young man was helping his dad build a wood fence. The teenager’s job was to cut pieces to serve as spacers between the boards. His dad told him to cut an 8’ 2×4 into 4” sections and he needed about 200 of them. His dad told him to cut the initial 4” section and then use it to serve as the pattern for each of the other 199 sections.

But, just to save a little time and because he was a little lazy at the idea, the teenager used block #2 to serve as the pattern for block #3 and then used the third block to measure and cut block #4 and so on. Do you know what happened? Because he wasn’t using the original 4” block, each block after that was actually a smidgeon longer, at least the width of the pencil lead.

So after about fifty blocks, the pieces had grown to about 4 1/4” and then 4 1/2” and then up to 4 3/4”. Eventually, the dad took a step back from his work and noticed that the fence was not even! He got a little perturbed at the son for not following the pattern, the original. “ALWAYS go back to the original,” he told his now-educated son. “If you don’t, you’ll slowly go off.”

If we want authentic Christianity, then we need to get back to Jesus Himself, the real Jesus, the authentic Jesus. We must let Jesus reveal Himself to us as He is and not turn Him into something that He is not, something that we might want Him to be rather than Who He is. Of course, to turn Jesus into somebody He is not and then worship and serve the figment of our imagination is idolatry.

So, how do we return to the authentic Jesus?

1. Let Jesus reveal Himself through the Gospel message. When John opens his Gospel account, he begins with these words: “The darkness did not comprehend” the light (1:5). Drop down to verse 11: “He came to His own, and those who were His own did not receive Him.”

Why did the Jews, Jesus’ own people, not receive Him? Because He did not meet their expectations. Why did the Pharisees reject Jesus’ miracles? Because He was not who they wanted Him to be. Why did the apostles, after Jesus was crucified, go back to fishing? Because the death of their friend was not expected and they did not anticipate a resurrection. In short, Jesus was not who they thought He was, in a real sense.

We absolutely must allow Jesus to be Who He is. We’ve got to accept Him for Who He is and love Him for Who He is and follow Him for Who He is. Isn’t that how you and I want to be treated by our family and friends?

2. Listen to Jesus’ message through His specially-guided followers. Jesus chose twelve men on whom to send the Holy Spirit to guide them to teach exactly what Jesus wants us to know in order to follow Him (Matthew 10:16-20).

For people who need to be built up spiritually, I frequently say, “Read one of the Gospel accounts. Just read Matthew, Mark, Luke or John.” But you will not, you cannot, get all the story if you only read about the life of Jesus. Jesus Himself told us that His disciples, His apostles, were guided by the Holy Spirit and we are to listen to them too. So, authentic Christianity, Christianity that is centered on Jesus Christ is going to take seriously the book of Acts and all the letters that were written by Jesus’ apostles from Romans through Revelation.

3. Enforce the laws Jesus has set down (Luke 13:22-30). The point I want to draw to your attention is that word “evildoers,” the word that is used here in place of “lawlessness” in other contexts. To be an “evil doer” is to do something that is without Christ’s permission. Authentic Christianity is Christianity that enforces the laws that Christ lays down. To do things in the name of Christianity that is without His permission is to be an evildoer. So, in seeking to enforce the laws of Christ, we are particularly interested in what did Christ command of Christians in the first century that is a part of His pattern for Christianity?
4. Do not make laws where Jesus has not made them (Mark 7:1-13). Jesus clearly teaches here that only He has the right, the authority, to design Christianity, making rules, regulations, and laws. If we want to have authentic Christianity, we do not need to make laws where Christ has not made them. That is the real Jesus – the one with all authority.

It is time to return to the real, authentic Jesus.

Paul Holland

Recently, I heard someone make the claim that “Satan” isn’t the name of the devil.  Their argument is that “Satan” is just the Hebrew word for “adversary,” and can refer to any adversary.

While that might sound good to some, it runs into some problems, especially when we get to the New Testament.

In the New Testament, the word “Satan” is still used, even though the writers wrote in Greek–not Hebrew.  Greek had its own words for “adversary,” and it wasn’t “Satan.”  Those Greek words are used multiple times in the New Testament, so it isn’t like the biblical writers were unaware of it.

Now some will say that the New Testament was written by Jews (except for Luke/Acts), and most of the original readers were Jewish, and so the use of “Satan” to describe the devil was just using a common word that they already knew–sort of like how Americans can say “adios” without needing to explain its meaning.

So how can we know for certain?  If you read through the gospel of Mark, you’ll see “Satan” mentioned multiple times.  And that settles the matter.

Wait, what?

Mark wrote to a Roman audience, not a Jewish one.  We know this because he took pains to explain every Hebrew phrase that he used–showing the readers weren’t Jews–and used several Latin words instead of the Greek counterparts (without feeling any need to explain the Latin).  So if “Satan,” which is a Hebrew word, is used by Mark to simply mean “adversary,” then he would have explained to his Roman readers what that meant.

Instead, Mark says “THE SATAN” (Mark 1:13, 3:23,  3:26, 4:15). By the way, in Greek, you will quite frequently find the word “the” in front of proper names.  It isn’t ever translated in English, because it would just read horribly weird to see “The Jesus said to the Peter and the James and the John,” but it happens A LOT in Greek.

A Roman reader would have no clue that “Satan” was a Hebrew word that meant adversary.  So if Mark meant “adversary,” he would have used the Greek (or Latin) word for it–or else, he would have explained what the word meant, like he did with every other Hebrew word/phrase he used.

The only reasonable explanation for Mark referring to “Satan” by that name is that the devil’s name is actually “Satan.”

-Bradley S. Cobb

Respect For God’s Authority

The standard of what is acceptable in religion for many is whether it satisfies the individual. Many “shop” for a religion that meets their personal preferences, treating the Scriptures as a salad bar– picking things they like and passing over others. Many declare satisfaction with the course they have chosen in religion without ever considering the question, “Is God satisfied with my religion?” The whole conclusion is not, serve God as you please, but “Fear God and keep His commandments” (Eccl. 12:13). Our purpose in daily activities and in worship should be to strive to please God. Those who truly seek to serve God will not be satisfied until they do this. We must be willing to test our practices and beliefs to see if they agree with the Scriptures. “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves” (2Cor. 13:5).

The only way to please God in all that we do is to follow His revealed will– to simply read and study the Scriptures and follow them in all we do, not adding to them or taking away (2Jn. 9; Deut. 4:2). Those who fail to do this lack respect for the authority of God as Lord and Master. The inspired apostle declared, “And whatsoever ye do, in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord” (Col.3:17). To “do all in the name of the Lord” means to respect the authority of the Lord in everything. We must have God’s authority for all that we do and that authority must be established from the Scriptures; f or it is there that God has revealed His will for us.

So, our personal morality, conduct, religious beliefs, and things practiced in worship must be based on book, chapter, and verse. One may be satisfied with the manner in which they live and worship, while God may not be, making life and worship worthless before the Lord. As Jesus warned, “This people draweth nigh unto Me with their mouth, and honoureth Me with their lips; but their heart is far from Me. But in vain they do worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men” (Matt. 15:8,9).

Therefore, let us search the Scriptures to establish authority for all that we believe and practice showing respect God’s authority.

– by Paul Smithson