Richard Sibbes described repentance as: “not a little hanging down our heads . . . but a working our hearts to such grief as will make sin [itself] more odious unto us than punishment, until we offer an holy violence against it.” Many can, upon grief over their sin, confess it to God and seek forgiveness. This may be genuine; however, it is not complete. The fruit of true repentance can clearly be identified in the way in which sin is forsaken. Often it involves a “radical amputation” (Mt. 5:29-30). Jay Adams says that forsaking sin involves: "1. A willingness to deny or say no (as Christ puts it) to selfish desires, either sinful in themselves or sinful as taking priority above Christ and His kingdom. 2. An actual breaking with the past practice, situation, or persons involved in the sin. 3. Setting up a structure that will make it difficult to fall into the same sin again.” This is the process of mortification.
Paul gave evidence of the fruit of true repentance in 2 Corinthians 7:11: "For see what earnestness this godly grief has produced in you, but also what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what fear, what longing, what zeal, what punishment! At every point you have proved yourselves innocent in the matter." Paul commended the Corinthians for their 1) earnestness in having a serious and right attitude toward the grievous nature of their sin, and their 2) eagerness to clear themselves by rectifying their faults. He praises their 3) indignation and hatred of their sin and 4) fear of God and possibly him. Paul also rejoiced to see their 5) longing to be reconciled to God, and their 6) zeal for which they pursued Christ. Paul also commends their 7) punishment. This word is more appropriately rendered “vengeance, vindication, or desire to see wrong avenged.” It denotes the desire to make reparation and restitution for their sin. Each of these gives evidence to the genuineness of their repentance and should also be part of every Christian’s process of forsaking sin.
Going back to the example of Peter, he showed the authenticity of his repentance. Peter confessed his sin, returned to the disciples, and ran to the tomb when he heard that Jesus’ body was gone. When he saw Christ on the shore, he leapt from the boat and swam to him. He affirmed his devotion to Christ and willing obedience to shepherd God’s flock three times. And the rest of his life was lived, though not perfectly, in obedience to Christ as he proclaimed the gospel in the midst of opposition, beatings, imprisonment, and even death. Thus, unlike Judas, Peter proved his repentance to be true.
What does your repentance look like? Are you truly grieved over your sin? You you feel the same way about it that God does? Have you taken measures to keep yourself from falling back into it? Have you confessed it to everyone whom you have sinned against? Did you reconcile with them? Are you willing to accept whatever retribution is necessary to restore your relationship to God and to others? Are you zealously seeking Christ, or are you just trying to get yourself out of a difficult situation? Are you growing in intimacy with the Lord? Are you willing to follow Christ wherever he leads? I ask myself these types of questions daily. I pray that by God's grace we all might put to death that which is earthly in us and put on, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, that which is pleasing to him (Col. 3:5-17). May we all seek the things that are above. May we delight in our Risen Lord, Jesus Christ (Col. 3:1-4). This can only be done through true repentance and faith.
Grace and peace,
Chet
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Sunday, December 21, 2008
True Repentance, part 4: What is it?
In Sinclair Ferguson's helpful book The Christian Life, he defines repentance as: 1) inseparable from faith. 2) It is a turning from sin to God, which is 3) rendered in the heart and produces outward effects. 4) Repentance takes place not just at conversion, but is a life-long process of reconciliation to God. To understand repentance more fully, one must look at each of these in turn. First, repentance is inseparable from faith. If our faith is genuine, it will be truly penitent. If our repentance is genuine, it will be truly believing. Bruce Demarest says that “repentance and faith are related to one another as two sides of a coin. They are interdependent responses, each incomplete without the other.” Jesus said in Mark 1:15: “repent and believe in the gospel.” In addition, Paul said to the elders at Ephesus, “I did not shrink from declaring to you anything that was profitable…testifying both to Jews and to Greeks of repentance toward God and of faith in our Lord Jesus Christ” (Acts 20:20-21). Repentance is only truly evangelical when it is based upon faith in Jesus Christ.
Second, repentance is described as a turning from sin to God. In order to turn from sin to God, one must first comprehend his sin in light of God’s revelation of himself. He must confess his sin by acknowledging it to God and agree with God regarding its nature. And he must choose not to pursue that sin any longer but to pursue Christ. Paul affirmed the Thessalonians repentance to be genuine because they “turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come” (1 Thes. 1:9-10). This turning includes living no longer for self, but for Christ. “For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised” (2 Cor. 5:14-15). One must turn away from sin and toward Christ. Both of these must be in place. To simply turn away from sin is placing trust in one’s own ability to mortify sin which will inevitably fail. One must also pursue Christ if this turning away from sin is to be complete.
Third, repentance is an inward change that produces outward effects. Repentance must begin within. In Joel 2:13, God says to Israel, “rend to me your hearts, not your garments.” Psalm 34:18 says “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” Those whose hearts are plagued by godly grief will respond in confession and then bear fruit in keeping with repentance (Luke 3:8). This inward change that produces outward fruit can be seen in Psalm 51. In verses 1-12, David humbly confessed his sin to God and asked for forgiveness. David acknowledged that it is God who cleanses and renews hearts. All the sacrifices of men are insufficient if God does not restore those who are truly broken (v. 16-17). In response to God’s forgiveness and the occurrence of this inward change, David then promised to teach transgressors God’s ways, declare God’s praise, and offer right sacrifices (v. 13-15, 18-19).
Fourth, repentance takes place not just at conversion, but is a life-long process of reconciliation to God. Martin Luther said: “When the Lord and Master Jesus Christ said, “Repent,” he intended that the entire life of believers should be repentance. This word repentance cannot be understood to mean the sacrament of penance, or the act of confession and satisfaction administered by the priests. Yet it does not mean inward repentance only, as there is no inward repentance that does not manifest itself outwardly through various mortifications of the flesh. The penalty of sin, therefore, continues so long as hatred of self, or true inward repentance, continues, and it continues until our entrance into the kingdom of heaven." Just as faith is continual trust in Christ throughout life, so also repentance is a constant part of Christian living. Paul spoke of the continual need for Christians to walk in the Spirit in order to not gratify the desires of the flesh (Gal. 5:16-25). Although Christians are justified upon faith and repentance at conversion, life is a process of sanctification whereby they are dying to the flesh (mortification) and made alive in Christ through the Spirit (vivification). Because Christians still battle with their remaining sin nature, they must continue to identify and repent of sin in their lives.
Unfortunately, churches often make little of this fact. Richard Lovelace stated that: "It is therefore not surprising that many congregations which are full of regenerate people are nevertheless not very alive spiritually, since spiritual life demands metanoia, a new mind of repentance, and this requires more than an initial setting of the heart against the shallow expressions of sin which the believer is aware of at the time of conversion . .. Most congregations of professing Christians today are saturated with a kind of dead goodness . . . surface righteousness which does not spring from faith and the Spirit’s renewing action, but from religious pride and conditioned conformity to tradition." Rather than gambling as lukewarm Christians (Rev. 3:15-16), believers must put to death the deeds of the body, through the Spirit, by repenting of and forsaking sin and living to Christ (Rom 8:12-13).
In faith-filled obedience may we continually turn our hearts from sin and seek the Lord with all that we are: heart, mind, soul, and strength. Next up in the True Repentance series, the finale: The Fruit of Repentance.
Second, repentance is described as a turning from sin to God. In order to turn from sin to God, one must first comprehend his sin in light of God’s revelation of himself. He must confess his sin by acknowledging it to God and agree with God regarding its nature. And he must choose not to pursue that sin any longer but to pursue Christ. Paul affirmed the Thessalonians repentance to be genuine because they “turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come” (1 Thes. 1:9-10). This turning includes living no longer for self, but for Christ. “For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised” (2 Cor. 5:14-15). One must turn away from sin and toward Christ. Both of these must be in place. To simply turn away from sin is placing trust in one’s own ability to mortify sin which will inevitably fail. One must also pursue Christ if this turning away from sin is to be complete.
Third, repentance is an inward change that produces outward effects. Repentance must begin within. In Joel 2:13, God says to Israel, “rend to me your hearts, not your garments.” Psalm 34:18 says “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” Those whose hearts are plagued by godly grief will respond in confession and then bear fruit in keeping with repentance (Luke 3:8). This inward change that produces outward fruit can be seen in Psalm 51. In verses 1-12, David humbly confessed his sin to God and asked for forgiveness. David acknowledged that it is God who cleanses and renews hearts. All the sacrifices of men are insufficient if God does not restore those who are truly broken (v. 16-17). In response to God’s forgiveness and the occurrence of this inward change, David then promised to teach transgressors God’s ways, declare God’s praise, and offer right sacrifices (v. 13-15, 18-19).
Fourth, repentance takes place not just at conversion, but is a life-long process of reconciliation to God. Martin Luther said: “When the Lord and Master Jesus Christ said, “Repent,” he intended that the entire life of believers should be repentance. This word repentance cannot be understood to mean the sacrament of penance, or the act of confession and satisfaction administered by the priests. Yet it does not mean inward repentance only, as there is no inward repentance that does not manifest itself outwardly through various mortifications of the flesh. The penalty of sin, therefore, continues so long as hatred of self, or true inward repentance, continues, and it continues until our entrance into the kingdom of heaven." Just as faith is continual trust in Christ throughout life, so also repentance is a constant part of Christian living. Paul spoke of the continual need for Christians to walk in the Spirit in order to not gratify the desires of the flesh (Gal. 5:16-25). Although Christians are justified upon faith and repentance at conversion, life is a process of sanctification whereby they are dying to the flesh (mortification) and made alive in Christ through the Spirit (vivification). Because Christians still battle with their remaining sin nature, they must continue to identify and repent of sin in their lives.
Unfortunately, churches often make little of this fact. Richard Lovelace stated that: "It is therefore not surprising that many congregations which are full of regenerate people are nevertheless not very alive spiritually, since spiritual life demands metanoia, a new mind of repentance, and this requires more than an initial setting of the heart against the shallow expressions of sin which the believer is aware of at the time of conversion . .. Most congregations of professing Christians today are saturated with a kind of dead goodness . . . surface righteousness which does not spring from faith and the Spirit’s renewing action, but from religious pride and conditioned conformity to tradition." Rather than gambling as lukewarm Christians (Rev. 3:15-16), believers must put to death the deeds of the body, through the Spirit, by repenting of and forsaking sin and living to Christ (Rom 8:12-13).
In faith-filled obedience may we continually turn our hearts from sin and seek the Lord with all that we are: heart, mind, soul, and strength. Next up in the True Repentance series, the finale: The Fruit of Repentance.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Open Hands
It's funny what the Lord brings to mind. In my quiet time today I was meditating on the ever-present, all-sufficient, powerful grace God gives his people, enabling them to carry out his will. As I read passage after passage, I was both awed and humbled by the immediacy and availability of God's provision for every aspect of my life. First Corinthians 15:10 says: "
But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me." In 2 Corinthians 9:8 Paul says: "And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work." What a great and glorious promise! God is continually giving me the grace I need to do his will!
By now you are probably thinking to yourself, "Duh Chet, that is neither new nor funny," but bear with me. I'm in a season of life in which I need to make BIG decisions. We are at the end of seminary and questions regarding our future are a daily and immediate reality. As I was praying today about where the Lord is leading us I was becoming very anxious. What obstacles will we encounter? How will I provide for my family? Am I cut out for this? Should I take the safe route and be wise and prudent, or should I risk heavily for Christ? I was worried. I was fearful. I was loosing sight of grace. Though I have heard this message time and again, I needed to hear the promise of God's ever-present power. This truth fell on me like a waterfall, washing away the burden of my anxiety. God's grace is not just his unmerited favor to pardon me from my sin, but is present with me right now, and will be with me, making me adequate, strengthening me to be sufficient for the task that he has given me, as long as I remain needy, bankrupt, and utterly dependent upon him. What peace, what joy I experienced in that moment.
Now to the "funny" part (interesting, ironic, not ha-ha). As I finished praying, the first thing that caught my attention was my hands: they were palms up. With eyes fixed upon my right hand, I slowly turned it to a handshake ready position. It was in that moment that I realized something that was profound. This was the way I was holding my hand toward the will of God! A vertical, outstretched, open hand seems inviting, receptive, ready to embrace what is placed within it. It appears enthusiastic, willing, welcoming, but it is conditional. In order to truly receive, the object must first be placed and held within my hand and then I have to decide to wrap my fingers around it. I can receive it only if it placed and remains in the position where I have set my hand IF I should so choose to grasp it. It might seem eager, it might appear willing, but it is no way to receive anything from God.
If I am to obtain anything from above my palms must face upward. If I am to embrace God's will for my life and His grace to walk in it my hands must be open, outstretched, and up. God's grace raining down from above cannot be collected by a vertical hand. It will slip right off the palm. Open hands with palms toward the heavens are ready to receive whatever the Lord should give, willing to receive blessing or to be bound for the sake of Christ. This is the position my hand needs to be in that I might receive grace upon grace to fulfill his will for me. These are hands truly open to God.
What position are your hands in? Are your palms up? If not, where are they? In your pockets, hiding from God? Are your fists clinched in rebellion against him? Are you pointing your finger at God to accuse him of some unjust deed or to make demands of him? Are your hands in that handshake ready position, appearing to be willing to embrace what he will give, but in reality you are willing to let his grace slip by? Or will you turn your palms to heaven, and like St. Augustine say: "Give what you command, and command what you will." God's grace is sufficient. God's grace is our great reward.
But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me." In 2 Corinthians 9:8 Paul says: "And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work." What a great and glorious promise! God is continually giving me the grace I need to do his will!
By now you are probably thinking to yourself, "Duh Chet, that is neither new nor funny," but bear with me. I'm in a season of life in which I need to make BIG decisions. We are at the end of seminary and questions regarding our future are a daily and immediate reality. As I was praying today about where the Lord is leading us I was becoming very anxious. What obstacles will we encounter? How will I provide for my family? Am I cut out for this? Should I take the safe route and be wise and prudent, or should I risk heavily for Christ? I was worried. I was fearful. I was loosing sight of grace. Though I have heard this message time and again, I needed to hear the promise of God's ever-present power. This truth fell on me like a waterfall, washing away the burden of my anxiety. God's grace is not just his unmerited favor to pardon me from my sin, but is present with me right now, and will be with me, making me adequate, strengthening me to be sufficient for the task that he has given me, as long as I remain needy, bankrupt, and utterly dependent upon him. What peace, what joy I experienced in that moment.
Now to the "funny" part (interesting, ironic, not ha-ha). As I finished praying, the first thing that caught my attention was my hands: they were palms up. With eyes fixed upon my right hand, I slowly turned it to a handshake ready position. It was in that moment that I realized something that was profound. This was the way I was holding my hand toward the will of God! A vertical, outstretched, open hand seems inviting, receptive, ready to embrace what is placed within it. It appears enthusiastic, willing, welcoming, but it is conditional. In order to truly receive, the object must first be placed and held within my hand and then I have to decide to wrap my fingers around it. I can receive it only if it placed and remains in the position where I have set my hand IF I should so choose to grasp it. It might seem eager, it might appear willing, but it is no way to receive anything from God.
If I am to obtain anything from above my palms must face upward. If I am to embrace God's will for my life and His grace to walk in it my hands must be open, outstretched, and up. God's grace raining down from above cannot be collected by a vertical hand. It will slip right off the palm. Open hands with palms toward the heavens are ready to receive whatever the Lord should give, willing to receive blessing or to be bound for the sake of Christ. This is the position my hand needs to be in that I might receive grace upon grace to fulfill his will for me. These are hands truly open to God.
What position are your hands in? Are your palms up? If not, where are they? In your pockets, hiding from God? Are your fists clinched in rebellion against him? Are you pointing your finger at God to accuse him of some unjust deed or to make demands of him? Are your hands in that handshake ready position, appearing to be willing to embrace what he will give, but in reality you are willing to let his grace slip by? Or will you turn your palms to heaven, and like St. Augustine say: "Give what you command, and command what you will." God's grace is sufficient. God's grace is our great reward.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Arrow #3
In case you haven't read Phyll's blog, in His goodness the Lord has seen fit to fashion another arrow for our quiver (Psalm 127:3-5). What a blessing! I look forward to God's gracious expanse of our heritage and reward!
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Controversial Christianity
I have been reading The Pleasures of God by John Piper. This quote really stood out to me: "Can controversial teachings nurture Christlikeness? Before you answer this question, ask another one: Are there any significant biblical teachings that have not been controversial? I cannot think of even one, let alone the number we all need for the daily nurture of faith. If this is true, then we have no choice but to seek our food in the markets of controversy. We need to stay there. We can go home and feast if the day has been well spent. But we must buy there. As much as we would like it, we do not have the luxury of living in a world where the most nourishing truths are unopposed. If we think we can suspend judgment on all that is controversial and feed our souls only on what is left, we are living in a dreamworld. There is nothing left. The reason any of us thinks that we can stand alone on the truths that are noncontroversial is because we do not know our history or the diversity of the professing church. Besides that, would we really want to give to the devil the right to determine our spiritual menu by refusing to eat any teaching over which he can cause controversy (121-122, emphasis mine).
As I reflected on this statement, I realized how right it was. There is not a single biblical doctrine that is not controversial. God's sovereignty and delight in his own glory is questioned. Creation, the miraculous, and divine revelation are doubted. The deity and humanity of Jesus is disputed. The bloody death of Christ as a substitute for the penalty we deserve is repugnant. The sinful nature of man is denied. The exclusivity of Christ is abhorred. Even the ordinances of baptism and the Lord's Supper cannot escape controversy when you reflect upon what they symbolize. One might argue that everyone can agree that God is love, but when examined in light of the biblical picture of God's love, it too is contended. If we attempt to strip or water biblical truth down to an inoffensive message, we are left with nothing. A virtually non-existent but needy God makes one of many paths to him by way of a nice guy who people don't really need. What is the point? Why would anyone accept a gospel that is unnecessary? It is no longer good news, only nice news.
We need to realize that Christianity is controversial. Some will hate it. Some will hate us as a result of it. We cannot let our fear to offend keep us from preaching the whole counsel of God. We are not responsible for the appeal of the message, only of our right handling of it. To some it will smell of death, but to others the aroma of Christ will be the fragrance of life. "
But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing, to one a fragrance from death to death, to the other a fragrance from life to life. Who is sufficient for these things? For we are not, like so many, peddlers of God's word, but as men of sincerity, as commissioned by God, in the sight of God we speak in Christ" - 2 Corinthians 2:14-17. Let us not peddle a pleasing message that tickles the ears of unbelievers but has no power to save. Instead, let us realize that all who are in Christ are commissioned to speak the whole, controversial message of Christ. To God be the glory!
As I reflected on this statement, I realized how right it was. There is not a single biblical doctrine that is not controversial. God's sovereignty and delight in his own glory is questioned. Creation, the miraculous, and divine revelation are doubted. The deity and humanity of Jesus is disputed. The bloody death of Christ as a substitute for the penalty we deserve is repugnant. The sinful nature of man is denied. The exclusivity of Christ is abhorred. Even the ordinances of baptism and the Lord's Supper cannot escape controversy when you reflect upon what they symbolize. One might argue that everyone can agree that God is love, but when examined in light of the biblical picture of God's love, it too is contended. If we attempt to strip or water biblical truth down to an inoffensive message, we are left with nothing. A virtually non-existent but needy God makes one of many paths to him by way of a nice guy who people don't really need. What is the point? Why would anyone accept a gospel that is unnecessary? It is no longer good news, only nice news.
We need to realize that Christianity is controversial. Some will hate it. Some will hate us as a result of it. We cannot let our fear to offend keep us from preaching the whole counsel of God. We are not responsible for the appeal of the message, only of our right handling of it. To some it will smell of death, but to others the aroma of Christ will be the fragrance of life. "
But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing, to one a fragrance from death to death, to the other a fragrance from life to life. Who is sufficient for these things? For we are not, like so many, peddlers of God's word, but as men of sincerity, as commissioned by God, in the sight of God we speak in Christ" - 2 Corinthians 2:14-17. Let us not peddle a pleasing message that tickles the ears of unbelievers but has no power to save. Instead, let us realize that all who are in Christ are commissioned to speak the whole, controversial message of Christ. To God be the glory!
Friday, December 5, 2008
True Repentance, part 3: The Insufficiency of Penance
Penance is a personal, outward attempt by a guilty party, upon recognition of his culpability, to make a satisfaction to God for his wrongdoing. In the Roman Catholic Church, it was meant to be preceded by contrition (sorrow) and confession (Council of Trent, Canons on Penance, Canon 4 [1551]). Although Protestant Christians reject the Catholic penitential system as an unbiblical attempt to add to the completed work of Christ, many professed believers erringly endeavor to compensate for their sins through penance. Penance, at its core, is a faithless act. It can be performed by believer and unbeliever alike. One who attempts to make a satisfaction for his own sin apart from repentance and trust in Christ’s ability to atone is acting in unbelief, even if he feels sorrow and confesses. Penance demonstrates a trust in man’s ability to appease God, rather than Christ’s.
Furthermore, acts of penance are simply an external means to please God without any true desire for change. Feeling a sense of worldly grief, many seek to absolve themselves of the guilt and consequences of sin by an outward pious action without ever focusing on “the inward renewal of the mind, which bears with it the true correction of life (Calvin, Institutes, 3.4.1, p 623).” Those who resort to penance are not dissatisfied with the corruptness of their hearts which produce sin. They only want freedom from the results of their sin. Stuart Scott adds that penance focuses on: 1) what the person wants rather than what God wants, 2) what the person does rather than on what Christ has done on their behalf, 3) a semi-public display versus a private display before God and 4) a human priest or advocate. Without concern for the way God desires reconciliation, the one who resorts to penance attempts to make restitution for his sin on his own terms.
Both Judas and Saul were guilty of performing penance. Judas indeed felt sorry for his betrayal, but instead of repenting, he tried to justify himself by returning the money and confessing to the Pharisees. Rather than humbling himself before God and seeking to reconcile to him on his terms, Judas did it his own way by taking his life. Saul confessed his sin and begged Samuel to go out with him so that he could worship God. But his heart was not changed. He still feared man.
There are numerous other biblical examples of attempts to appease God through penance (a few examples are Zech 7:5-14; Jer 14:10-12; Hos 6:1-6; Lk 18:9-14). Israel attempted to merit God’s favor by fasting in Isaiah 58. In verse 1, God told Isaiah to declare to Israel their transgression. This is in spite of the fact that they: “seek me daily and delight to know my ways…they ask of me righteous judgments; they delight to draw near to God” (v. 2). The people wondered why God had not seen their fast. They assumed that they had humbled themselves, yet God did not respond. Why? It is because they were still transgressing They were unrighteous, having forsaken God’s judgments (v. 2). They sought their own pleasure, fought each other, and oppressed their workers (v. 3-5). Although they were keeping the religious rituals of the Law, and even showing contrition through fasting, their hearts were not changed. In the rest of the chapter God proclaims that he chooses the fast that shows compassion on others. This is the fast of the truly penitent. If the Israelites would love their neighbors, God would be present with them to protect, provide for, and guide them.
Are you attempting to outwardly appease God? Are you trying to come to him on your own terms rather than on his? Are you efforts external rites rather than inward change? Are you seeking to atone for your sins or are you truly resting in the sufficient blood of Christ? David said in Psalm 51:16-17, "For you will not delight in sacrifice, or I would give it; you will not be pleased with a burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise." May we not seek to cover our sin by our own feable efforts, but let us mourn over and hate our sin as we run to and rest in the only sacrifice that can truly atone for our transgressions: the precious blood of Jesus Christ.
Furthermore, acts of penance are simply an external means to please God without any true desire for change. Feeling a sense of worldly grief, many seek to absolve themselves of the guilt and consequences of sin by an outward pious action without ever focusing on “the inward renewal of the mind, which bears with it the true correction of life (Calvin, Institutes, 3.4.1, p 623).” Those who resort to penance are not dissatisfied with the corruptness of their hearts which produce sin. They only want freedom from the results of their sin. Stuart Scott adds that penance focuses on: 1) what the person wants rather than what God wants, 2) what the person does rather than on what Christ has done on their behalf, 3) a semi-public display versus a private display before God and 4) a human priest or advocate. Without concern for the way God desires reconciliation, the one who resorts to penance attempts to make restitution for his sin on his own terms.
Both Judas and Saul were guilty of performing penance. Judas indeed felt sorry for his betrayal, but instead of repenting, he tried to justify himself by returning the money and confessing to the Pharisees. Rather than humbling himself before God and seeking to reconcile to him on his terms, Judas did it his own way by taking his life. Saul confessed his sin and begged Samuel to go out with him so that he could worship God. But his heart was not changed. He still feared man.
There are numerous other biblical examples of attempts to appease God through penance (a few examples are Zech 7:5-14; Jer 14:10-12; Hos 6:1-6; Lk 18:9-14). Israel attempted to merit God’s favor by fasting in Isaiah 58. In verse 1, God told Isaiah to declare to Israel their transgression. This is in spite of the fact that they: “seek me daily and delight to know my ways…they ask of me righteous judgments; they delight to draw near to God” (v. 2). The people wondered why God had not seen their fast. They assumed that they had humbled themselves, yet God did not respond. Why? It is because they were still transgressing They were unrighteous, having forsaken God’s judgments (v. 2). They sought their own pleasure, fought each other, and oppressed their workers (v. 3-5). Although they were keeping the religious rituals of the Law, and even showing contrition through fasting, their hearts were not changed. In the rest of the chapter God proclaims that he chooses the fast that shows compassion on others. This is the fast of the truly penitent. If the Israelites would love their neighbors, God would be present with them to protect, provide for, and guide them.
Are you attempting to outwardly appease God? Are you trying to come to him on your own terms rather than on his? Are you efforts external rites rather than inward change? Are you seeking to atone for your sins or are you truly resting in the sufficient blood of Christ? David said in Psalm 51:16-17, "For you will not delight in sacrifice, or I would give it; you will not be pleased with a burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise." May we not seek to cover our sin by our own feable efforts, but let us mourn over and hate our sin as we run to and rest in the only sacrifice that can truly atone for our transgressions: the precious blood of Jesus Christ.
Friday, November 28, 2008
True Thanksgiving
Recently I was invited to preach this coming Sunday, 11/30, at a small, rural church outside of Shepherdsville, KY happily named Sunnyside Baptist Church. Being the Sunday after Thanksgiving, it didn't take me long to decide what to preach on. I had been meditating on Psalm 100 (A Psalm for Giving Thanks) before I received the invitation, so when I heard the date I immediately knew my sermon text.
Thanksgiving is a great holiday. I like it because it is much less captive to consumerism, it is outward focused - showing gratitude for life's many blessings, AND it's yummy (oh how I miss my Grandma Rosemary's cinammon rolls)! It gives people an opportunity to contemplate all that they have to be thankful for and hopefully acknowledge that those good gifts come from someone other than themselves. I am always prayerful that those who do not believe might realize that all the wonderful blessings they have received come from a Gracious Giver who showers his gifts on both the righteous and the unrighteous (Acts 14:16-17). I hope that they see that these blessings came from God and that they might turn and respond to him in praise and adoration. After all, that's the purpose of the holiday, is it not?
Thanksgiving Day is a time in which we should show gratitude to our gracious Father, yet if we just stop at thanking God for the blessings we have received from him without worshipping him for who he is, we have not been truly thankful. We must be careful not to relish in the gifts, without glorifying the Giver. This was all to clear to me as I was preparing my sermon on Psalm 100. The entire passage is focused on God, with barely a mention of the gifts received (we are his people, the sheep of his pasture). The Psalmist instructs us that true thanksgiving comes from a recognition that God is king over all, a realization that we belong to Him, and a reliance upon his perfect character. In other words, true thanksgiving comes not from gratitude for his gifts, but from a true knowledge of God. It is a real, intimate, trust-filled knowledge of God that results in genuine gratitude, not in a deep appreciation for his blessings. We are truly thankful when we truly know God and confess him as Lord over our lives. The result of this authentic adoration, according to Psalm 100, is joyful proclamation, glad service, and exuberant praise. Our thanksgiving does not stop at words but results in God-glorifying action. We are pleased to do God's will because we find our delight in him. We trust in his sovereignty and flawless nature and therefore gladly submit ourselves to him, regardless of our current circumstances. Despite pain and sorrow, failure and unmet expectations, we can rejoice because we have received the greatest possible blessing. We have received God.
Do you find yourself unsatisfied? Do you feel joyless and ungrateful? Is it hard for you to whole-heartedly worship God? It may sound simplistic, stony, or stupid, but true thanksgiving comes from a true knowledge of God. Joy and gladness will come if you seek the Lord. Satisfaction cannot be found in our reveling in our gifts. Instead, our hearts are truly happy when we delight in the Giver. It is to this end that we were created.
Please pray for me as I preach this Sunday. To God be the glory!
Thanksgiving is a great holiday. I like it because it is much less captive to consumerism, it is outward focused - showing gratitude for life's many blessings, AND it's yummy (oh how I miss my Grandma Rosemary's cinammon rolls)! It gives people an opportunity to contemplate all that they have to be thankful for and hopefully acknowledge that those good gifts come from someone other than themselves. I am always prayerful that those who do not believe might realize that all the wonderful blessings they have received come from a Gracious Giver who showers his gifts on both the righteous and the unrighteous (Acts 14:16-17). I hope that they see that these blessings came from God and that they might turn and respond to him in praise and adoration. After all, that's the purpose of the holiday, is it not?
Thanksgiving Day is a time in which we should show gratitude to our gracious Father, yet if we just stop at thanking God for the blessings we have received from him without worshipping him for who he is, we have not been truly thankful. We must be careful not to relish in the gifts, without glorifying the Giver. This was all to clear to me as I was preparing my sermon on Psalm 100. The entire passage is focused on God, with barely a mention of the gifts received (we are his people, the sheep of his pasture). The Psalmist instructs us that true thanksgiving comes from a recognition that God is king over all, a realization that we belong to Him, and a reliance upon his perfect character. In other words, true thanksgiving comes not from gratitude for his gifts, but from a true knowledge of God. It is a real, intimate, trust-filled knowledge of God that results in genuine gratitude, not in a deep appreciation for his blessings. We are truly thankful when we truly know God and confess him as Lord over our lives. The result of this authentic adoration, according to Psalm 100, is joyful proclamation, glad service, and exuberant praise. Our thanksgiving does not stop at words but results in God-glorifying action. We are pleased to do God's will because we find our delight in him. We trust in his sovereignty and flawless nature and therefore gladly submit ourselves to him, regardless of our current circumstances. Despite pain and sorrow, failure and unmet expectations, we can rejoice because we have received the greatest possible blessing. We have received God.
Do you find yourself unsatisfied? Do you feel joyless and ungrateful? Is it hard for you to whole-heartedly worship God? It may sound simplistic, stony, or stupid, but true thanksgiving comes from a true knowledge of God. Joy and gladness will come if you seek the Lord. Satisfaction cannot be found in our reveling in our gifts. Instead, our hearts are truly happy when we delight in the Giver. It is to this end that we were created.
Please pray for me as I preach this Sunday. To God be the glory!
Thursday, November 20, 2008
True Repentance, part 2: Godly Grief versus Worldly Grief
If we are to know whether or not our repentance is genuine, we must first examine the nature of our sorrow. Is our grief godly or carnal? The passage which gives the clearest demarcation of true remorse and worldly sorrow is 2 Corinthians 7:8-10:
8 For even if I made you grieve with my letter, I do not regret it- though I did regret it, for I see that that letter grieved you, though only for a while. 9 As it is, I rejoice, not because you were grieved, but because you were grieved into repenting. For you felt a godly grief, so that you suffered no loss through us. 10 For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death.
Grief goes beyond mere emotions. It is not uncommon to feel guilt, shame, or regret when caught in a sin. Yet true grief is identified by one’s response to it. If one is godly, the shame that he experienced will lead him to humble himself before God. He will recognize that he has disgraced God and will earnestly desire to be restored to him. Mourning loss of communion between himself, God and others, he will grow to hate his sin. As William Cowper said “I hate the sin that made thee mourn and drove thee from my breast.” His grief will lead to repentance, which will result in salvation without regret. This occurs because the godly man turns away from his sin and focuses on the pardoning grace of God. He will recognize that he has received God’s mercy and forgiveness of his sin. John Calvin puts it this way:
“The sorrow of the world is, when men despond in consequence of earthly afflictions, and are overwhelmed with grief; while sorrow according to God is that which has an eye to God, while they reckon it the one misery — to have lost the favor of God; when, impressed with fear of His judgment, they mourn over their sins. This sorrow Paul makes the cause and origin of repentance. This is carefully to be observed, for unless the sinner be dissatisfied with himself, detest his manner of life, and be thoroughly grieved from an apprehension of sin, he will never betake himself to the Lord.”
Therefore godly grief is that remorse or sorrow which leads one to humbly repent to God. In the previous example of Peter in part 1, John 21 portrays his intimate restoration to Christ. Peter’s godly grief over denying him three times results in his humble triadic affirmation to shepherd Jesus’ flock.
Conversely, Paul describes worldly grief as leading to death. All emotions of shame and regret do not result in a humble repentance for those who experience ungodly sorrow. Instead, worldly grief leads to death because there is no restoration to God. Stuart Scott says that:
“Shallow remorse can involve: 1) sorrow over getting caught and being found out, 2) sorrow over the consequences in or of getting caught, 3) sorrow over the response of others. 4) The offering of an apology saying, “I’m sorry” without any mention of repentance or change and without asking forgiveness. 5) Trying to do penance by doing unrelated good things to make the consequences go away, to try to cancel out one’s wrong-doing, or to appease God. 6) Making at least some justification for the sin committed. 7) Complaining about the expectation of real change.”
In short, they do not hate their sin or desire to do what is necessary to truly reconcile severed relationships. Therefore, worldly grief is sorrow over the consequences of sin, yet without any remorse over dishonoring God. It leads to a focus on self and away from God. Judas felt great sorrow over his sin, but he never sought reconciliation to God. His grief was not from the recognition of the evil of his sin but from the punishment he would receive as a result of betraying innocent blood.
Another biblical example of worldly grief is King Saul. In 1 Samuel 15, God commanded Saul to go to battle against the Amalekites and to devote all of them to destruction. Saul was not to leave a single man or animal alive. After mustering his troops, Saul went to war with the Amalekites and God granted him victory over them. But Saul failed to keep his vow to God by sparing Agag, king of the Amalekites, and the best of the animals. As Samuel approached Saul, the king lied to Samuel saying that he had fulfilled God’s command. Samuel rebuked him for his disobedience. Saul then attempted to respond with false piety as he said that he saved the choicest animals to offer them as a sacrifice to God (rather than taking away from his own personal flock). Samuel was not convinced and told Saul that God had rejected him as king.
Overwhelmed with grief, Saul confessed his true motive – the people took the spoil rather than destroying it, and Saul feared them (v. 24). His desire to please man was greater than his desire to please God. Saul pleaded with Samuel to pardon his sin and return with him so that he could worship the Lord. Yet he was not truly interested in worshipping God, but being honored by Samuel before the eyes of men. When Samuel refused, Saul seized his robe and it tore. Again Saul begged Samuel to go with him before the people, this time Samuel agreed. His compliance was probably due to the fact that even though Saul was a sinful king, he was still anointed by God. Until another king took his place, he would serve as the spiritual representative of the people. Samuel’s allowance would protect the nation from following Saul’s example further. Saul was able to save face before the people, yet he was not allowed to carry out God’s command to destroy Agag and the remaining flocks. Samuel fulfilled this task.
Unlike his successor, David, he never truly humbled himself and repented to God. As a result of Saul’s worldly grief he was rejected by God and given an evil spirit to torment him. He eventually lost both his throne and his life because he feared man more than God (1 Chr. 10:13-14). This should lead us to ask a few questions of ourselves. Why do you feel sorrow over your sin? Is it because you fear man or consequences? Or is it because you are grieved by knowing that you have offended God? Do you really hate your sin? Are you willing to do what is necessary to be reconciled to God and those whom you have sinned against? In part 3, we'll look at biblical instruction for how we are to repent, but in the mean time may we all be grieved over our sin, leading us to repent and place our trust in the only one who can restore without regret.
8 For even if I made you grieve with my letter, I do not regret it- though I did regret it, for I see that that letter grieved you, though only for a while. 9 As it is, I rejoice, not because you were grieved, but because you were grieved into repenting. For you felt a godly grief, so that you suffered no loss through us. 10 For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death.
Grief goes beyond mere emotions. It is not uncommon to feel guilt, shame, or regret when caught in a sin. Yet true grief is identified by one’s response to it. If one is godly, the shame that he experienced will lead him to humble himself before God. He will recognize that he has disgraced God and will earnestly desire to be restored to him. Mourning loss of communion between himself, God and others, he will grow to hate his sin. As William Cowper said “I hate the sin that made thee mourn and drove thee from my breast.” His grief will lead to repentance, which will result in salvation without regret. This occurs because the godly man turns away from his sin and focuses on the pardoning grace of God. He will recognize that he has received God’s mercy and forgiveness of his sin. John Calvin puts it this way:
“The sorrow of the world is, when men despond in consequence of earthly afflictions, and are overwhelmed with grief; while sorrow according to God is that which has an eye to God, while they reckon it the one misery — to have lost the favor of God; when, impressed with fear of His judgment, they mourn over their sins. This sorrow Paul makes the cause and origin of repentance. This is carefully to be observed, for unless the sinner be dissatisfied with himself, detest his manner of life, and be thoroughly grieved from an apprehension of sin, he will never betake himself to the Lord.”
Therefore godly grief is that remorse or sorrow which leads one to humbly repent to God. In the previous example of Peter in part 1, John 21 portrays his intimate restoration to Christ. Peter’s godly grief over denying him three times results in his humble triadic affirmation to shepherd Jesus’ flock.
Conversely, Paul describes worldly grief as leading to death. All emotions of shame and regret do not result in a humble repentance for those who experience ungodly sorrow. Instead, worldly grief leads to death because there is no restoration to God. Stuart Scott says that:
“Shallow remorse can involve: 1) sorrow over getting caught and being found out, 2) sorrow over the consequences in or of getting caught, 3) sorrow over the response of others. 4) The offering of an apology saying, “I’m sorry” without any mention of repentance or change and without asking forgiveness. 5) Trying to do penance by doing unrelated good things to make the consequences go away, to try to cancel out one’s wrong-doing, or to appease God. 6) Making at least some justification for the sin committed. 7) Complaining about the expectation of real change.”
In short, they do not hate their sin or desire to do what is necessary to truly reconcile severed relationships. Therefore, worldly grief is sorrow over the consequences of sin, yet without any remorse over dishonoring God. It leads to a focus on self and away from God. Judas felt great sorrow over his sin, but he never sought reconciliation to God. His grief was not from the recognition of the evil of his sin but from the punishment he would receive as a result of betraying innocent blood.
Another biblical example of worldly grief is King Saul. In 1 Samuel 15, God commanded Saul to go to battle against the Amalekites and to devote all of them to destruction. Saul was not to leave a single man or animal alive. After mustering his troops, Saul went to war with the Amalekites and God granted him victory over them. But Saul failed to keep his vow to God by sparing Agag, king of the Amalekites, and the best of the animals. As Samuel approached Saul, the king lied to Samuel saying that he had fulfilled God’s command. Samuel rebuked him for his disobedience. Saul then attempted to respond with false piety as he said that he saved the choicest animals to offer them as a sacrifice to God (rather than taking away from his own personal flock). Samuel was not convinced and told Saul that God had rejected him as king.
Overwhelmed with grief, Saul confessed his true motive – the people took the spoil rather than destroying it, and Saul feared them (v. 24). His desire to please man was greater than his desire to please God. Saul pleaded with Samuel to pardon his sin and return with him so that he could worship the Lord. Yet he was not truly interested in worshipping God, but being honored by Samuel before the eyes of men. When Samuel refused, Saul seized his robe and it tore. Again Saul begged Samuel to go with him before the people, this time Samuel agreed. His compliance was probably due to the fact that even though Saul was a sinful king, he was still anointed by God. Until another king took his place, he would serve as the spiritual representative of the people. Samuel’s allowance would protect the nation from following Saul’s example further. Saul was able to save face before the people, yet he was not allowed to carry out God’s command to destroy Agag and the remaining flocks. Samuel fulfilled this task.
Unlike his successor, David, he never truly humbled himself and repented to God. As a result of Saul’s worldly grief he was rejected by God and given an evil spirit to torment him. He eventually lost both his throne and his life because he feared man more than God (1 Chr. 10:13-14). This should lead us to ask a few questions of ourselves. Why do you feel sorrow over your sin? Is it because you fear man or consequences? Or is it because you are grieved by knowing that you have offended God? Do you really hate your sin? Are you willing to do what is necessary to be reconciled to God and those whom you have sinned against? In part 3, we'll look at biblical instruction for how we are to repent, but in the mean time may we all be grieved over our sin, leading us to repent and place our trust in the only one who can restore without regret.
True Repentance, part 1
Most Christians know who Simon Peter and Judas Iscariot were. Both were apostles of Christ. Both walked with him and were taught by him for years. Both were given authority by Jesus to heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, and cast out demons (Mt. 10:5-15). Both appeared outwardly in every respect to be loyal to Christ. Peter, after all was the one who professed Jesus as the Messiah (Mt. 16-13-20), and Judas was given charge over the money bag (Jn. 13:29). Yet both turned their backs on him. Judas betrayed him and Peter denied him. Upon recognition of their unfaithfulness, both showed remorse. Judas, when he saw that Jesus was condemned, “changed his mind” and attempted to return the thirty pieces of silver saying “I have sinned by betraying innocent blood” (Mt. 27:3-4). Peter, after denying Christ three times, ran away weeping bitterly (Mt. 26:65). Yet only one was truly penitent. Judas threw down the silver and went out and hanged himself. Peter, on the other hand, returned to the disciples and afterward was restored to Christ (John 21).
How can it be that both were regretful and yet only one response led to reconciliation? How could Judas, being anguished by his sin to the point of suicide, not have received mercy from God? And if his sorrow did not lead to salvation, how can one be sure of the validity of his repentance?
I wish I could say that questions like these were common, but unfortunately there seems to be much confusion regarding the nature of repentance. Often it is viewed as a one time event of sorrow over sin and confession, but repentance goes far beyond grief and acknowledgment of transgression. Therefore, I thought it might be helpful to pass on a little insight I've been given on the nature of repentance in the hope that it may bolster our understanding and draw us to our knees as we endeavor to "keep to Christ in repentance and faith." To do this, we must first examine the distinction between worldly and godly grief. Second, we must explore the differentiation between penance and repentance. This will become increasingly clear as we identify the fruit of true repentance and then make a few personal points of application. I pray that we may truly mourn over our sin as we look upon the him whom we have pierced (Zech 12:10; John 19:37)and respond as Peter did, in an obedient and continual trust in the only true Savior, Jesus Christ.
How can it be that both were regretful and yet only one response led to reconciliation? How could Judas, being anguished by his sin to the point of suicide, not have received mercy from God? And if his sorrow did not lead to salvation, how can one be sure of the validity of his repentance?
I wish I could say that questions like these were common, but unfortunately there seems to be much confusion regarding the nature of repentance. Often it is viewed as a one time event of sorrow over sin and confession, but repentance goes far beyond grief and acknowledgment of transgression. Therefore, I thought it might be helpful to pass on a little insight I've been given on the nature of repentance in the hope that it may bolster our understanding and draw us to our knees as we endeavor to "keep to Christ in repentance and faith." To do this, we must first examine the distinction between worldly and godly grief. Second, we must explore the differentiation between penance and repentance. This will become increasingly clear as we identify the fruit of true repentance and then make a few personal points of application. I pray that we may truly mourn over our sin as we look upon the him whom we have pierced (Zech 12:10; John 19:37)and respond as Peter did, in an obedient and continual trust in the only true Savior, Jesus Christ.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
A Song of "WHUP!"
Seeing as how my posts have a tendency to make some people cry (JB), I thought I might try to bring a little humor to your day. So, I present to you my favorite youtube video (though I almost never go to youtube). Here he is, the pride of Peoria, IL, Mr. John Daker! P.S. Keep your eyes on the eyebrows. They'll make you sing, "Ah-ah-AH-ah-ah-ah-ah-aye-ah-ah-OH!"
Monday, November 10, 2008
India update
I found out this weekend that my friend Ani, one of our Regional Coordinators in India, has been beaten up again. This time it was more severe for him. Ani and others (I do not know who they are at this time) were sharing the Gospel within a small Muslim village very close to Ani's home when it happened. Please pray for the following:
- Ani's and the other's physical needs
- The Lord to use the increased persecution throughout India as a means to further His Kingdom.
- The village where the persecution occurred to have soft hearts and ultimately accept Jesus as their Savior.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Pray for India: God's glory in persecution
Please pray for my friends in India. I received an email from Raja, who told me the Christians in his area are facing opposition from some radical Hindu groups. These Hindus are threatening to use whatever means to shut down the churches there. Raja is concerned for the endurance of those who have recently come to faith and asked that we pray for God's work to continue despite this conflict.
This is in a different area than that of my friend Ani who was beaten last month (for a recap of Ani's situation, see Phyll's blog, postings on September 8 titled "Urgent Prayer Request" and September 19 "Updates from India"). Ani's district is on the east side of West Bengal, Raja's is on the west. It appears that persecution from radical Hindu groups is on the rise. This is particularly the case in Orissa, the state immediately south of West Bengal. There, hundreds of churches and thousands of Christians' homes have been destroyed. As many as fifty Christians have been killed. Click here for a recent report of the persecution in Orissa.
It is difficult to stand by while your friends experience suffering for their faith. It's even harder to encourage them to persevere when you know that you have not experienced anything like that. I find it to be a humbling privilege to know, pray for, and encourage these brothers and sisters and I hope that by God's grace, I will have the strength to stand for the faith as they have.
I'm going to include part of my response to Raja in the hope that it will remind us all of God's purposes in suffering, what an honor it is to face affliction for Christ, the hope we have in our Savior, and how much we need to be praying for these dear Christians.
I am continuing to pray for you and the brothers and sisters in this difficult time. Please read 1 Peter 4:12-19 to them for me.
"Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. 15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. 16 Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 And "If the righteous is scarcely saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?"1 19 Therefore let those who suffer according to God's will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good."
We must remember that Christ is the reward of this life, not prosperity, health, riches or comfort. If we face insults, threats, and persecutions of various kinds we are blessed! The Spirit of God rests upon us to strengthen and embolden us to stand for the truth of the Gospel. He gives us comfort and peace and joy in spite of suffering. And when the lost see our rejoicing, even in the midst of hardship, they are confounded. They wonder "why are they not despairing? Why do they not curse God?" In those times they cannot help but realize that we glorify a God who is truly there and their response can only be to glorify him likewise, or to deny him in hardness of heart. Therefore we ought to entrust our souls to our faithful God. He will grow his church, whether in persecution or in peace. But we have hope because we know that faithfulness to him will result in spiritual blessing now and abundant blessings in heaven. Our obedience will result in his word going forth and it will not be made void. It will accomplish its purpose. Therefore always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry (2 Timothy 4:5).
I hope this will be an encouragement to you all. Please hug them for me. Tell them I miss them and that I love them with the affections of Christ.
In life or death may Christ be honored (Philippians 1:20-21)! Grace and peace - Chet
This is in a different area than that of my friend Ani who was beaten last month (for a recap of Ani's situation, see Phyll's blog, postings on September 8 titled "Urgent Prayer Request" and September 19 "Updates from India"). Ani's district is on the east side of West Bengal, Raja's is on the west. It appears that persecution from radical Hindu groups is on the rise. This is particularly the case in Orissa, the state immediately south of West Bengal. There, hundreds of churches and thousands of Christians' homes have been destroyed. As many as fifty Christians have been killed. Click here for a recent report of the persecution in Orissa.
It is difficult to stand by while your friends experience suffering for their faith. It's even harder to encourage them to persevere when you know that you have not experienced anything like that. I find it to be a humbling privilege to know, pray for, and encourage these brothers and sisters and I hope that by God's grace, I will have the strength to stand for the faith as they have.
I'm going to include part of my response to Raja in the hope that it will remind us all of God's purposes in suffering, what an honor it is to face affliction for Christ, the hope we have in our Savior, and how much we need to be praying for these dear Christians.
I am continuing to pray for you and the brothers and sisters in this difficult time. Please read 1 Peter 4:12-19 to them for me.
"Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. 15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. 16 Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 And "If the righteous is scarcely saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?"1 19 Therefore let those who suffer according to God's will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good."
We must remember that Christ is the reward of this life, not prosperity, health, riches or comfort. If we face insults, threats, and persecutions of various kinds we are blessed! The Spirit of God rests upon us to strengthen and embolden us to stand for the truth of the Gospel. He gives us comfort and peace and joy in spite of suffering. And when the lost see our rejoicing, even in the midst of hardship, they are confounded. They wonder "why are they not despairing? Why do they not curse God?" In those times they cannot help but realize that we glorify a God who is truly there and their response can only be to glorify him likewise, or to deny him in hardness of heart. Therefore we ought to entrust our souls to our faithful God. He will grow his church, whether in persecution or in peace. But we have hope because we know that faithfulness to him will result in spiritual blessing now and abundant blessings in heaven. Our obedience will result in his word going forth and it will not be made void. It will accomplish its purpose. Therefore always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry (2 Timothy 4:5).
I hope this will be an encouragement to you all. Please hug them for me. Tell them I miss them and that I love them with the affections of Christ.
In life or death may Christ be honored (Philippians 1:20-21)! Grace and peace - Chet
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Gabe Is Not a Baby!
The boys are growing up way too fast! Gabe turned two on September 29th. I still can't believe it. It seems like he should just be turning one...but he's two! That's half way to preschool, a third of the way to little league. He's almost a sixth of the way to being a teenager, an eighth of the way to a driver's license, and a ninth until he graduates high school. These past two years have been a blur. How fast will the others go?Every time the boys have a birthday, I'm reminded of how little time I have with them. You blink and they grow an inch. They go to sleep and wake up the next day a pound heavier. My time with them is really short (and that is given that the Lord should, in kindness, extend our lives so long).
I am especially reminded of how little time I have to bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord (Eph 6:4). On Gabe's birthday I was meditating on Deuteronomy 4:9: "Only take care, and keep your soul diligently, lest you forget the things that your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life. Make them known to your children and your children's children." The imperatives are two-fold: Keep your soul diligently and teach your children. I must lead them by example and by word. It is not enough to have one without the other. I must keep my soul diligently AND teach the things of the Lord to my kids.
I cannot focus on my own spiritual life to the neglect of my boys. In working on my own heart, I must work on theirs as well. And if I am lax and fail to take care of my soul, I am not the only one affected. Providentially, a few days after meditating on Deuteronomy 4, I read Andrew Fuller's Causes for Declinsion in Religion and Means of Revival (I commend it to all men, particularly those in or going into ministry). While many applicable quotes could be taken from Fuller, I want to mention only two. In warning in the danger of keeping a spiritual status quo rather than aspiring to holiness, Fuller says: "those who are contented not to do better than other people, generally allow themselves to do a little worse." His point is that if we are happy to compare ourselves to other Christians rather than striving hard after Christ, we will be willing to give ourselves over to temptation. It is just like in a race: If we get lazy, we're going to get beat. We should not run to keep pace with the pack, but instead set the course, lest we fall further and further behind. For my boys, if I am lax about my spiritual life, I do not set the example for them that I ought.
The second Fuller quote builds upon the first. He says, "A single defeat or slip, of which we may think but little at the time, may be copied by our children, servants, neighbors, or friends, over and over again; yea, it may be transmitted to our posterity, and pleaded as a precedent for evil when we are no more! Thus it may kindle a fire which, if we ourselves are saved from it, may nevertheless burn to the lowest hell and aggravate the everlasting misery of many around us, who are flesh of our flesh, and bone of our bone!" YIKES! Our subtle sins may be used as a precedent for evil. Fuller is right. Our actions have a lasting impact on those around us. Therefore let us strive all the more to imitate Christ in our words, thoughts, and deeds. Let us pursue him with all fervency, as if not only our lives, but the lives of others depended upon it. But we must do so not by our own effort, but in recognition of our utter need for and desire for Christ.
But we must also remember the second part of Deuteronomy 4:9. We not only set an example for our children by keeping our souls diligently, we must also teach them. I am grateful to the Lord for what he has taught Phyllis and me regarding biblical parenting. We are so indebted to the Word, our church, and the seminary for teaching us more about what it means to raise children who love the Lord. Ladan has been memorizing Scripture and catechism questions, both the boys love church, reading Bible stories from the Big Picture Story Bible or the Jesus Storybook Bible, and prayer. Gabe regularly grabs our hands, tilts his head down with eyes fixed upward on us and says, "Pay!", which means pray. He'll do it over and over again. I am so grateful that the Lord is working on their hearts and I continue to pray that he will lead them to place their trust in Christ as Lord and Savior.
Birthdays are great milestones and opportunities to reflect on what the Lord has done. But they are also much needed reminders that the course is not yet complete. I still have a long way to go in working on my heart so that I might be an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity (1 Timothy 4:12). I still have much more to learn in leading my family in worship to God. I praise God for these little reminders of how short life is and I pray that by God's grace I will make every day count.
"Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers." - 1 Timothy 4:16
Sermons and Teachings
I just uploaded a video of a sermon I delivered for one of my classes. If you'd like to view it, or listen to the other audio I have available, just click on the links on the left sidebar. I hope you enjoy and are encouraged in Christ.
Grace and peace,
Chet
Grace and peace,
Chet
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Joey's Epiphany
I have a friend at work named Joey who I have been witnessing to for about a year. Despite having heard the gospel countless times throughout his life, Joey is an unbeliever. He knows what the Bible says, but finds himself unwilling to take up his cross and follow Christ. Well, he just got back from bootcamp for the Army Reserves, where he told me of an "epiphany" he had. He said, "In bootcamp, they take away everything from you, except your training. All the stuff you rely on, all the things that you do or distract you are gone, and you are left with who you really are." Then Joey said to me, "I got a look at myself and I didn't like what I saw." I was stunned. I immediately began to ask him questions about his realization of himself and what he thought he should do. But despite catching a glimpse of who he really was and the depth of his sinfulness, Joey is not yet ready to respond to the gospel. He's not ready to admit his wretchedness and utter need for Christ. He is still unwilling to fall on his face before God to respond in repentance and faith. Rather than being broken, he is attempting to cover over his epiphany. He would rather think he's not that bad.
All of us have experienced those times in which everything is stripped away and we find the reality of our hearts laid bare. The sight of it can be frightening. It may come in the dead of night or in the middle of the day, when were are alone or in the middle of a crowd. But there we are...there we REALLY are. And in those moments we catch a glimpse of the wretched, black, malignant, putrid hearts within each of us. We can see our transgression. We feel the guilt. The yoke of sin and death are tight around our necks, and we realize the futility of our insatiable lusts. In that instant, we must make a choice. We can attempt to bury deep within the recesses of our minds, or we can let it break us. We can hide it away and lie to ourselves, or, in honesty and earnestness, fall on our knees in contrition and appeal for mercy.
For those of us who have responded to the free offer of the gospel by repenting and trusting in Christ alone for our salvation: Let us never forget that image. This is who we were apart from Jesus. This is who they are who don't believe in the Son of God. We must remember so that we never attempt to rip ourselves from our recognition for the need of God's continual, sustaining grace.
For those who may have stood in Joey's shoes as an unbeliever: If you have not had an epiphany like his, it will come. But if you have had those times in which you caught a glimpse of the true nature of your heart, REMEMBER! Don't try to cover it over. Don't try to deceive yourself into believing that you are okay. Repent. Turn to the only one who can free you from your bondage to sin. There is no lasting satisfaction in this life apart from Christ. Seek the one in whom true joy comes, trust in Him, and seek out Christians who can help you know more about the Christian life. But do not delay. You may stuff this vision for a while, but it will come back time and again to haunt you. And every time it does, it beckons you to God. Receive the hope that comes only from Jesus.
In closing, I beg my brothers and sisters in Christ to pray for Joey. I believe he is not far from the kingdom of God. And to all of you, "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope!" - Romans 15:13
All of us have experienced those times in which everything is stripped away and we find the reality of our hearts laid bare. The sight of it can be frightening. It may come in the dead of night or in the middle of the day, when were are alone or in the middle of a crowd. But there we are...there we REALLY are. And in those moments we catch a glimpse of the wretched, black, malignant, putrid hearts within each of us. We can see our transgression. We feel the guilt. The yoke of sin and death are tight around our necks, and we realize the futility of our insatiable lusts. In that instant, we must make a choice. We can attempt to bury deep within the recesses of our minds, or we can let it break us. We can hide it away and lie to ourselves, or, in honesty and earnestness, fall on our knees in contrition and appeal for mercy.
For those of us who have responded to the free offer of the gospel by repenting and trusting in Christ alone for our salvation: Let us never forget that image. This is who we were apart from Jesus. This is who they are who don't believe in the Son of God. We must remember so that we never attempt to rip ourselves from our recognition for the need of God's continual, sustaining grace.
For those who may have stood in Joey's shoes as an unbeliever: If you have not had an epiphany like his, it will come. But if you have had those times in which you caught a glimpse of the true nature of your heart, REMEMBER! Don't try to cover it over. Don't try to deceive yourself into believing that you are okay. Repent. Turn to the only one who can free you from your bondage to sin. There is no lasting satisfaction in this life apart from Christ. Seek the one in whom true joy comes, trust in Him, and seek out Christians who can help you know more about the Christian life. But do not delay. You may stuff this vision for a while, but it will come back time and again to haunt you. And every time it does, it beckons you to God. Receive the hope that comes only from Jesus.
In closing, I beg my brothers and sisters in Christ to pray for Joey. I believe he is not far from the kingdom of God. And to all of you, "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope!" - Romans 15:13
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Our Lens for Viewing the World
Okay, so I had to read this book for my Old Testament class (though I'm not sure why) entitled The Creator and the Cosmos by Hugh Ross. In it, Ross, Ph.D in astronomy from the University of Toronto, argues for a divinely created Big Bang. Giving a cornucopia of data, which requires a doctorate in astrophysics to understand, he attempts to persuade his readers of the validity of an intelligent Creator who set creation in motion by a sudden burst of matter and energy which results in the continual expanse of the universe according to the laws of thermodynamics and the theory of general relativity. Furthermore, he suggests that this cosmology is consistent with Scripture, since it was God who 'stretched out the heavens' - Isaiah 42:5 (p. 23-29). Ross then defends his position against numerous alternate cosmologies and provides an abundance of information on both the impossibility of accidental life and the anthropic principle (a theory that argues that the entire universe must exist exactly as it is in order for life to be sustained here on earth).
The amount of data he provides is overwhelming, leaving simple-minded men such as myself with little to say. It appears to the average reader, that beyond a scientific doubt, the universe was created, through a Big Bang, which was orchestrated by an intelligent Creator. AND, because the Bible appears to support the claim, the God of the Bible must be this Creator.
On surface level this sounds great, but is this the way we should view the world? Is it okay for us to attempt to validate the truth claims of the Bible through the lens of science? My answer..."NO!" There are a couple of questions I would ask Ross. First, it is my understanding that the Big Bang theory requires three things: 1) dense matter, 2) very extreme heat, and 3) time. Ross argues that God created these three things ex nihilo (from nothing) and set the big bang on the course of expanding the universe according to thermodynamics and general relativity, making the universe some 15 billion years old. But, if God created these from nothing, is it impossible for him to create a universe with apparent age that continues to expand according to the rules of thermodynamics and general relativity?
The second question is this: Do you believe that Adam was a real person, created with apparent age? The Bible supports that Adam and the animals were created as functional adults. So, if they began with apparent age, again could the world not have been created with maturity as well? If Ross does not believe that Adam was real, he's undermining the very thing he is trying to validate: Scripture. Genesis, Joshua, 1 Chronicles, Hosea, Luke, Acts, Romans, 1 Corinthians, 1 Timothy, and Jude all portray Adam as a real, created human being (not to mention Eve). I don't think he would want to try to give an argument of how the Bible implicitly supports a Big Bang theory, but deny what Scripture explicitly affirms. How do you attempt to defend the Bible with science, only to turn and say that science proves that some of its claims are impossible? I ask these questions only to get at the point that when it comes to the way we view the world, science is no substitute for Scripture.
Now don't get me wrong. I appreciate science. I believe there are a great number of things we can learn about our world and we should seek to learn more about it. Ross' arguments for the intricacy and uniqueness of life are astonishing. We should rejoice at the idea of the anthropic principle. God fashioning the entire universe so that human life could exist on this small speck of a planet should cause us to stand in awe of the wisdom and love of God. But should we rely on human understanding to defend God and the claims of Scripture? Absolutely not! Are we really so arrogant?
You may have heard of the illustration of the watch and the watchmaker. If we found a watch on the beach, the order and intelligence of the design would be evident to us. By simple observation, we could tell implicitly that it was made and not a product of chance. Yet we do not stand outside the watch, we are a part of it. How can we then, as an insignificant piece of the watch, expect to be able to fully comprehend it, let alone the watchmaker? We are like a little gold link near the clasp of the watchband, resting outside the intricate mechanics of the watch itself. Yet in reality the distinction is far greater. We are a microscopic speck of the created, an infinitesimal speck of dust on a vast, gargantuan, and complex machine. It seems foolish for me to think that we can then stand as an authority over creation. And even if we could stand outside of the created in order to observe and discern the absolute workings of the mechanism, how would we know it is a watch and not a flashlight, or a microwave? The only way we would know that it is a watch is because somebody told us that it was. Apart from this revelation, we would have no idea what it was or why it is created. We would need an instruction manual for that. Furthermore, we certainly would not be able to deduce from it who the watchmaker was and what he was really like. Therefore, no matter how much we discover about our universe, it will never fully tell us why it is here and what its origins are. We cannot get to the Creator through the created. It is arrogance to try.
If we are to know how and why we came to be it MUST be told to us. The universe will never tell us more than "you were created." We can learn some things about the Creator, but we'll never find out who he is unless he tells us. We need revelation. We need to hear his Word. We need to believe what he tells us. He claims all authority by his Word without giving a single apologetic for it, because what piece of the created order could give irrefutable evidence for the One who is by nature irrefutable? He must speak if we are to know him. If he speaks, his word is authoritative truth and, as the Creator, all creation must obey it. Let us then not seek to make the Bible fit with science. Let's not shape Christianity according to the intellectual theory of the day. Rather, let's take him at his Word. One day we'll see that it all fits together. Until then, we should plumb the depths of knowledge with the understanding that to God belongs all wisdom, knowledge, and power. Let's be content to leave question marks where they remain. But let us never attempt to make the truth claims of Scripture fit our scientific worldview, for God alone "is perfect in knowledge" (Job 37:16).
The amount of data he provides is overwhelming, leaving simple-minded men such as myself with little to say. It appears to the average reader, that beyond a scientific doubt, the universe was created, through a Big Bang, which was orchestrated by an intelligent Creator. AND, because the Bible appears to support the claim, the God of the Bible must be this Creator.
On surface level this sounds great, but is this the way we should view the world? Is it okay for us to attempt to validate the truth claims of the Bible through the lens of science? My answer..."NO!" There are a couple of questions I would ask Ross. First, it is my understanding that the Big Bang theory requires three things: 1) dense matter, 2) very extreme heat, and 3) time. Ross argues that God created these three things ex nihilo (from nothing) and set the big bang on the course of expanding the universe according to thermodynamics and general relativity, making the universe some 15 billion years old. But, if God created these from nothing, is it impossible for him to create a universe with apparent age that continues to expand according to the rules of thermodynamics and general relativity?
The second question is this: Do you believe that Adam was a real person, created with apparent age? The Bible supports that Adam and the animals were created as functional adults. So, if they began with apparent age, again could the world not have been created with maturity as well? If Ross does not believe that Adam was real, he's undermining the very thing he is trying to validate: Scripture. Genesis, Joshua, 1 Chronicles, Hosea, Luke, Acts, Romans, 1 Corinthians, 1 Timothy, and Jude all portray Adam as a real, created human being (not to mention Eve). I don't think he would want to try to give an argument of how the Bible implicitly supports a Big Bang theory, but deny what Scripture explicitly affirms. How do you attempt to defend the Bible with science, only to turn and say that science proves that some of its claims are impossible? I ask these questions only to get at the point that when it comes to the way we view the world, science is no substitute for Scripture.
Now don't get me wrong. I appreciate science. I believe there are a great number of things we can learn about our world and we should seek to learn more about it. Ross' arguments for the intricacy and uniqueness of life are astonishing. We should rejoice at the idea of the anthropic principle. God fashioning the entire universe so that human life could exist on this small speck of a planet should cause us to stand in awe of the wisdom and love of God. But should we rely on human understanding to defend God and the claims of Scripture? Absolutely not! Are we really so arrogant?
You may have heard of the illustration of the watch and the watchmaker. If we found a watch on the beach, the order and intelligence of the design would be evident to us. By simple observation, we could tell implicitly that it was made and not a product of chance. Yet we do not stand outside the watch, we are a part of it. How can we then, as an insignificant piece of the watch, expect to be able to fully comprehend it, let alone the watchmaker? We are like a little gold link near the clasp of the watchband, resting outside the intricate mechanics of the watch itself. Yet in reality the distinction is far greater. We are a microscopic speck of the created, an infinitesimal speck of dust on a vast, gargantuan, and complex machine. It seems foolish for me to think that we can then stand as an authority over creation. And even if we could stand outside of the created in order to observe and discern the absolute workings of the mechanism, how would we know it is a watch and not a flashlight, or a microwave? The only way we would know that it is a watch is because somebody told us that it was. Apart from this revelation, we would have no idea what it was or why it is created. We would need an instruction manual for that. Furthermore, we certainly would not be able to deduce from it who the watchmaker was and what he was really like. Therefore, no matter how much we discover about our universe, it will never fully tell us why it is here and what its origins are. We cannot get to the Creator through the created. It is arrogance to try.
If we are to know how and why we came to be it MUST be told to us. The universe will never tell us more than "you were created." We can learn some things about the Creator, but we'll never find out who he is unless he tells us. We need revelation. We need to hear his Word. We need to believe what he tells us. He claims all authority by his Word without giving a single apologetic for it, because what piece of the created order could give irrefutable evidence for the One who is by nature irrefutable? He must speak if we are to know him. If he speaks, his word is authoritative truth and, as the Creator, all creation must obey it. Let us then not seek to make the Bible fit with science. Let's not shape Christianity according to the intellectual theory of the day. Rather, let's take him at his Word. One day we'll see that it all fits together. Until then, we should plumb the depths of knowledge with the understanding that to God belongs all wisdom, knowledge, and power. Let's be content to leave question marks where they remain. But let us never attempt to make the truth claims of Scripture fit our scientific worldview, for God alone "is perfect in knowledge" (Job 37:16).
Monday, September 22, 2008
HYPOCRITE!
That's right folks. I am a hypocrite. I'm doing what I said I would not do. I am starting a blog. I really can't believe I am doing it. After many persuasive arguments from my professors and peers, and the persistent prodding of my precious wife, I caved in. I hope to bring clarity to some of my teachings or provide afterthoughts, give updates on some of the ministry opportunities I have been given, occasionally comment on important issues, and provide words of inspiration and encouragement (Phyll's blog will still bear the brunt of the family updates). However, I make no promises in the timeliness of my posts. I cannot guarantee they will be particularly enlightening. But if the Lord should see fit to use my musings, as simple as they are, then to him be glory!
P.S. I still refuse to be a part of Facebook!
P.S. I still refuse to be a part of Facebook!
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