"Don't let anyone make fun of you, just because you are young. Set an example for other followers by what you say and do, as well as by your love, faith, and purity" (1 Tim. 4:12). Timothy was young, and this was one of several instructions Paul gave to him s a young leader. He also gave him lots of instructions about the work and leadership of the church.
Some of the things I highlighted are:
1. "First of all, I ask you to pray for everyone. Ask God to help and bless them all, and tell God how thankful you are for each of them." (1 Tim. 2:1, Gratitude)
2. "Take care of any widow who is really in need. But if a widow has children or grandchildren, they should learn to serve God by taking care of her, as she once took care of them. This is what God wants them to do." (1 Tim. 5:3-4, Priorities - I live next door)
3. "These people think religion is supposed to make you rich. And religion does make your life rich, by making you content with what you have." (1 Tim. 6:5b-6, People I know)
4. "Keep your mind on Jesus Christ" (2 Tim. 2:8, Why is it so hard?)
5. "Be humble when you correct people who oppose you." (2 Tim. 2:25, I'm in leadership)
6. "The time is coming when people won't listen to good teaching. Instead, they will look for teachers who will please them by telling them only what they are itching to hear." (2 Tim. 4:3, sounds like now).
Not a lot of reflection for me tonight. It has been almost forty degrees here today, and I've spent much of it outside at yard work. Not bright, I know. Now, it's TV time.
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Monday, May 29, 2006
1 & 2 Thessalonians
I'm still having a hard time getting used to the short books in the New Testament. I sit back in my chair with my Diet Coke, prepared to settle in for a while, and I'm finished a book before I finish my Diet Coke.
There's a lot of focus given in both letters here to Christ's return. This, for me, was the topic of many sermons growing up. To be truthful, I don't know that I learned much more about the details around Christ's return from a lifetime of sermons than what I just read this morning. Here's how I see it: Jesus is coming back one day for his Church. We will be surprised when it happens, but not really. No one knows when it will be; some believers will have already died, others will be alive. The dead ones will get a head start and then the rest of us who are alive will be next. If anyone says otherwise (from what Paul said in these letters), they are wrong.
I think the most important phrase in all of it is "Encourage each other with these words" (1 Thess. 4:18). I don't believe that we are to get details about Christ's return as much as we can take comfort in the fact that he is coming back one day. It is meant to give us hope, not the scoop.
1 Thessalonians, according to the notes in my Bible, is thought to be Paul's first letter. I like his couple disclaimers at the beginning (1 Thess. 2:1-8). "We didn't have any hidden motives when we won you over, and we didn't try to fool or trick anyone." Also, "we didn't try to flatter anyone." I like that.
I also like his summary guidelines at the end of each letter. I like to think that he considers them of high importance, and by placing them at the end, they will be lodged in people's memories. For example:
"My friends, we ask you to be thoughtful of your leaders who work hard and tell you how to live for the Lord. Show them great respect and love because of their work. Try to get along with each other. My friends, we beg you to warn anyone who isn't living right. Encourage anyone who feels left out, help all who are weak, and be patient with everyone. Don't be hateful to people, just because they are hateful to you. Rather, be good to each other and to everyone else. Always be joyful and never stop praying. Whatever happens, keep thanking God because of Jesus Christ. This is what God wants you to do. Don't turn away God's Spirit or ignore prophecies. Put everything to the test. Accept what is good and don't have anything to do with evil" (1 Thess 5:12-20, bold is mine).
Also, at the end of 2 Thess., Paul warns against laziness, saying things like "if you don't work, you don't eat" (3:10).
It seems Paul's instructions, here and in other letters, are terribly simple. I apologize for the pop culture reference, but why is that we have to make things so complicated?
There's a lot of focus given in both letters here to Christ's return. This, for me, was the topic of many sermons growing up. To be truthful, I don't know that I learned much more about the details around Christ's return from a lifetime of sermons than what I just read this morning. Here's how I see it: Jesus is coming back one day for his Church. We will be surprised when it happens, but not really. No one knows when it will be; some believers will have already died, others will be alive. The dead ones will get a head start and then the rest of us who are alive will be next. If anyone says otherwise (from what Paul said in these letters), they are wrong.
I think the most important phrase in all of it is "Encourage each other with these words" (1 Thess. 4:18). I don't believe that we are to get details about Christ's return as much as we can take comfort in the fact that he is coming back one day. It is meant to give us hope, not the scoop.
1 Thessalonians, according to the notes in my Bible, is thought to be Paul's first letter. I like his couple disclaimers at the beginning (1 Thess. 2:1-8). "We didn't have any hidden motives when we won you over, and we didn't try to fool or trick anyone." Also, "we didn't try to flatter anyone." I like that.
I also like his summary guidelines at the end of each letter. I like to think that he considers them of high importance, and by placing them at the end, they will be lodged in people's memories. For example:
"My friends, we ask you to be thoughtful of your leaders who work hard and tell you how to live for the Lord. Show them great respect and love because of their work. Try to get along with each other. My friends, we beg you to warn anyone who isn't living right. Encourage anyone who feels left out, help all who are weak, and be patient with everyone. Don't be hateful to people, just because they are hateful to you. Rather, be good to each other and to everyone else. Always be joyful and never stop praying. Whatever happens, keep thanking God because of Jesus Christ. This is what God wants you to do. Don't turn away God's Spirit or ignore prophecies. Put everything to the test. Accept what is good and don't have anything to do with evil" (1 Thess 5:12-20, bold is mine).
Also, at the end of 2 Thess., Paul warns against laziness, saying things like "if you don't work, you don't eat" (3:10).
It seems Paul's instructions, here and in other letters, are terribly simple. I apologize for the pop culture reference, but why is that we have to make things so complicated?
Sunday, May 28, 2006
Colossians
If I'm going to finish by this Friday, I'm going to have to step it up a bit......
I wonder if Paul knew how influential he would be. If he knew that his words would be read by millions (billions, even) over hundreds of years, would he have been so relaxed. Granted, I'm reading a relaxed version (CEV), but he sends personal greetings to the church, and to particular people in the church, making mention of some by name. I wonder if my blog will be read 2000 years from now? =)
I talked to Karen today. First time since she left. We had been text messaging a little, but this was the first we spoke in seven days.
Colossians is more of the same message Paul wrote to the other churches. No less important, but largely the same. He lists some things that the church should and should not do now that they are living in the freedom that Christ has given them. He encourages them to be humble, love each other, and to forgive. One new instruction that I hadn't noticed before is "When you are with unbelievers, always make good use of the time. Be pleasant and hold their interest when you speak the message. Choose your words carefully and be ready to give answers to anyone who asks questions" (4:5-6). Wise words.
He always makes sure to bring it back to Christ. He is and should be the purpose, foundation, center and end result of every thing we say and do.
Did I mention I talked with Karen?
I wonder if Paul knew how influential he would be. If he knew that his words would be read by millions (billions, even) over hundreds of years, would he have been so relaxed. Granted, I'm reading a relaxed version (CEV), but he sends personal greetings to the church, and to particular people in the church, making mention of some by name. I wonder if my blog will be read 2000 years from now? =)
I talked to Karen today. First time since she left. We had been text messaging a little, but this was the first we spoke in seven days.
Colossians is more of the same message Paul wrote to the other churches. No less important, but largely the same. He lists some things that the church should and should not do now that they are living in the freedom that Christ has given them. He encourages them to be humble, love each other, and to forgive. One new instruction that I hadn't noticed before is "When you are with unbelievers, always make good use of the time. Be pleasant and hold their interest when you speak the message. Choose your words carefully and be ready to give answers to anyone who asks questions" (4:5-6). Wise words.
He always makes sure to bring it back to Christ. He is and should be the purpose, foundation, center and end result of every thing we say and do.
Did I mention I talked with Karen?
Philippians
Of all the books in the Bible, I've probably read Philippians the most. For that reason, I keep coming back to a couple of the same passages every time. Namely, "Don't be jealous or proud, but be humble and consider others more important than yourselves" (2:3) and "Finally, my friends, keep your minds on whatever is true, pure, right, holy, friendly, and proper. Don't ever stop thinking about what is truly worthwhile and worthy of praise" (4:8). I figure that if people could actually accomplish what is stated in these two sentences, the world would be a better place.
And reading it again this morning was no different. Except I see a couple of other themes. More than once, Paul tells the Philippian church that they have seen his example, and they should just follow it. That's a lot of confidence, and he also shared that with the Corinthian church.
All of Paul's thoughts and instruction centers around Christ. He talks about his own life journey and lessons from it, as well as cautioning against those who are bragging and misrepresenting Christ. Paul says that we should brag about one thing and one thing only - Christ himself and what he has done for and in us.
But back to the two sentences that I generally perseverate on --- I rarely live up to their standards. But I noticed another sentence that I had not noticed before - "God is working in you to make you willing and able to obey him" (2:13). That's good to know. He's given me the standard, and he's given me a means. Himself.
And reading it again this morning was no different. Except I see a couple of other themes. More than once, Paul tells the Philippian church that they have seen his example, and they should just follow it. That's a lot of confidence, and he also shared that with the Corinthian church.
All of Paul's thoughts and instruction centers around Christ. He talks about his own life journey and lessons from it, as well as cautioning against those who are bragging and misrepresenting Christ. Paul says that we should brag about one thing and one thing only - Christ himself and what he has done for and in us.
But back to the two sentences that I generally perseverate on --- I rarely live up to their standards. But I noticed another sentence that I had not noticed before - "God is working in you to make you willing and able to obey him" (2:13). That's good to know. He's given me the standard, and he's given me a means. Himself.
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Ephesians
I had to memorize the first chapter of Ephesians in College. I did so successfully, from the New International Version. I've always liked Ephesians, especially 3:20-21. I use it sort of as a testimony. "I pray that Christ Jesus and the church will forever bring praise to God. His power at work in us can do far more than we dare ask or imagine. Amen." Specifically, "His power at work in us can do far more than we dare ask or imagine."
I've recited that phrase often as my own story. I won't reiterate it here, but suffice it to say that 15 years ago I did not, in my wildest dreams, imagine that I would be where I am today, doing what I do, knowing who I know and married to Karen. As a matter of fact, had someone told me, I would have mocked them. But, God has far exceeded my expectations and imagination.
That's why I am generally comfortable waiting on what God wants. I know in time, he will guide me along where he wants me to go and to what he wants me to do, often in spite of me; and I know he will because he has and because I'm willing (generally speaking!).
But as I read Ephesians again, Paul is emphasizing how Christ wants to use to church, and how we should live as members of his church. Yesterday I had lunch with an acquaintance, who I hope is becoming a friend. He's a believer, and he said he's looking for a church for middle-aged, cynical men. I can appreicate that. But we talked some more and I tried to help him understand (or perhaps I was trying convince myself) that the only way the church can be changed is for us to ask God to use us on the inside. Change it from within. One person at a time. Starting with me.
If we lived by the guidleines Paul outlines, church would be a welcoming place. "I beg you to live in a way that is worthy of the people God has chosen to be his own. Always be humble and gentle. Patiently put up with each other and love each other. Try your best to let God's Spirit keep your hearts united. Do this by living at peace." (4:1-3)
I'm trying. To let myself be changed.
I've recited that phrase often as my own story. I won't reiterate it here, but suffice it to say that 15 years ago I did not, in my wildest dreams, imagine that I would be where I am today, doing what I do, knowing who I know and married to Karen. As a matter of fact, had someone told me, I would have mocked them. But, God has far exceeded my expectations and imagination.
That's why I am generally comfortable waiting on what God wants. I know in time, he will guide me along where he wants me to go and to what he wants me to do, often in spite of me; and I know he will because he has and because I'm willing (generally speaking!).
But as I read Ephesians again, Paul is emphasizing how Christ wants to use to church, and how we should live as members of his church. Yesterday I had lunch with an acquaintance, who I hope is becoming a friend. He's a believer, and he said he's looking for a church for middle-aged, cynical men. I can appreicate that. But we talked some more and I tried to help him understand (or perhaps I was trying convince myself) that the only way the church can be changed is for us to ask God to use us on the inside. Change it from within. One person at a time. Starting with me.
If we lived by the guidleines Paul outlines, church would be a welcoming place. "I beg you to live in a way that is worthy of the people God has chosen to be his own. Always be humble and gentle. Patiently put up with each other and love each other. Try your best to let God's Spirit keep your hearts united. Do this by living at peace." (4:1-3)
I'm trying. To let myself be changed.
Thursday, May 25, 2006
Galations
I don't think I ever noticed before that Paul's letter to the Galations was in a lot of ways a defense of himself. It seems someone had accused him of preaching a false gospel, or something of the sort, and he was explaining to them how he was called by Jesus and was preaching the message that Jesus himself gave him.
That said, it is a lot like Romans, in that Paul concentrates on comparing to living under the law and living by faith in Christ through the power of the Spirit. It seems some people were saying that the church should be circumcised, but Paul tells them that if they obey that one piece, then they must obey it all. Jesus came to fulfill the law and allow us to live by faith in him, and not by obedience to the law.
Then, faith in Christ results in a life that is pleasing to God. "God's Spirit makes us loving, happy, peaceful, patient, kind, good, faithful, gentle, and self-controlled (5:22-23). If we live by faith in Christ through the power of his Spirit, then this is the result - Christ has shown us a way to live other than in bondage to the Law.
Paul also talks about the importance of giving to the poor (2:10), which has been a recurring them for me. And talks about people comparing themselves to others and boasting about their accomplishments. He noted that faith in Christ makes everyone equal (3:20) and that we should focus on helping others and loving each other.
This is a teaching letter, so the lessons are straightforward. I still get frustrated by us as a church. The tendency of the church today is the same as the Galation church - we like to compare ourselves to others and talk about an economy of worthiness. Some people consider themselves better than others because they dress nicer for church, say or don't say certain things, pray one hour every morning or read the Bible through every month. The world's value system still exists in the church. Why is it that we cannot embrace what it means to be free and equal because of faith in Christ?
I really don't know the answer, except that I'm trying daily to live a life that is pleasing to God. I'm sure I regularly disappoint or offend others, but when it's all said and done, I only want to please one person, and let Him take care of the rest.
That said, it is a lot like Romans, in that Paul concentrates on comparing to living under the law and living by faith in Christ through the power of the Spirit. It seems some people were saying that the church should be circumcised, but Paul tells them that if they obey that one piece, then they must obey it all. Jesus came to fulfill the law and allow us to live by faith in him, and not by obedience to the law.
Then, faith in Christ results in a life that is pleasing to God. "God's Spirit makes us loving, happy, peaceful, patient, kind, good, faithful, gentle, and self-controlled (5:22-23). If we live by faith in Christ through the power of his Spirit, then this is the result - Christ has shown us a way to live other than in bondage to the Law.
Paul also talks about the importance of giving to the poor (2:10), which has been a recurring them for me. And talks about people comparing themselves to others and boasting about their accomplishments. He noted that faith in Christ makes everyone equal (3:20) and that we should focus on helping others and loving each other.
This is a teaching letter, so the lessons are straightforward. I still get frustrated by us as a church. The tendency of the church today is the same as the Galation church - we like to compare ourselves to others and talk about an economy of worthiness. Some people consider themselves better than others because they dress nicer for church, say or don't say certain things, pray one hour every morning or read the Bible through every month. The world's value system still exists in the church. Why is it that we cannot embrace what it means to be free and equal because of faith in Christ?
I really don't know the answer, except that I'm trying daily to live a life that is pleasing to God. I'm sure I regularly disappoint or offend others, but when it's all said and done, I only want to please one person, and let Him take care of the rest.
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
1 & 2 Corinthians
There was a lot of familiar stuff in the two leters to the Corinthian church. I guess I have read each of them several times before. In the first letter, Paul talks about their not getting along as proof that they were not fully living for Christ. He also gives lessons in spiritual gifts and love. Love is about getting along with others. His instructions about the Lord's Supper was about getting along.
There's still a lot of 'not getting along' in church. It's not new. It's amazing that we're still not getting this right, after two millenia.
The second letter seems to me to have a bit of a sarcastic tone, but I'm not sure. I'll have to come back to it another time.
Clearly, though, he is writing and responding to some questions and specific issues. He says that a few times. Also, in 14:34, he says that the women must not be allowed to speak in church. Yet, in Romans, he tells them to welcome Pheobe who is a respected church leader. It isn't consistent unless it is issue based.
Unfortunately for me, I'm having a hard time concentrating, so the one lesson I'm getting from here is that we need to get along. For me, that means I must do my part not to tick off people, but to make every effort to live at peace with everyone. I shouldn't be promoting myself, I should be promoting others.
There's still a lot of 'not getting along' in church. It's not new. It's amazing that we're still not getting this right, after two millenia.
The second letter seems to me to have a bit of a sarcastic tone, but I'm not sure. I'll have to come back to it another time.
Clearly, though, he is writing and responding to some questions and specific issues. He says that a few times. Also, in 14:34, he says that the women must not be allowed to speak in church. Yet, in Romans, he tells them to welcome Pheobe who is a respected church leader. It isn't consistent unless it is issue based.
Unfortunately for me, I'm having a hard time concentrating, so the one lesson I'm getting from here is that we need to get along. For me, that means I must do my part not to tick off people, but to make every effort to live at peace with everyone. I shouldn't be promoting myself, I should be promoting others.
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Romans
The law vs. faith in Christ. That's pretty much it.
I decided that I want to finish the New Testament by the end of next week. That means I'll be reading more often and that my journaling will be simpler. It doesn't help that I'm a little preoccupied - Karen's should be arriving in Lviv, Ukraine any minute now, and she's away until next Friday. We're half a world apart.
But back to Romans. The law vs. faith in Christ. Acts ended with Paul in Rome. Romans begins with Paul saying how much he wanted to visit, which suggests he wrote it early on in his work. Most of the letter is Paul explaining to the Jewish readers that they should not be boastful or think they're all that because they have the law. The law wasn't enough. He then explains that the law was necessary, but sums it all up by saying that they were sinners who Christ died for and they needed to accept him by faith.
Then, Paul starts speaking to the Gentiles (10:13), and tells them that they shouldn't think they're all that either, because the Jews were God's chosen people - they were welcomed in and made part of the family, but the Jews were first.
He essentially takes away any reason for anyone to boast. That must have been a problem. Sort of like denominations nowadays.
Then it looks like he switches and talk to everyone (12:1) and gives some basic instructions for living for Christ - all very practical. He then sums up the Jew / Gentile conversation (15:7) then shares some information about himself (15:14) then some closing remarks.
All in all, it seems Romans' emphasis is for one group not to think they are better than another group, that only faith in Christ is what matters, and God used the law to lay a foundation for people to be able to accept Christ.
Now I can get back to missing Karen.
I decided that I want to finish the New Testament by the end of next week. That means I'll be reading more often and that my journaling will be simpler. It doesn't help that I'm a little preoccupied - Karen's should be arriving in Lviv, Ukraine any minute now, and she's away until next Friday. We're half a world apart.
But back to Romans. The law vs. faith in Christ. Acts ended with Paul in Rome. Romans begins with Paul saying how much he wanted to visit, which suggests he wrote it early on in his work. Most of the letter is Paul explaining to the Jewish readers that they should not be boastful or think they're all that because they have the law. The law wasn't enough. He then explains that the law was necessary, but sums it all up by saying that they were sinners who Christ died for and they needed to accept him by faith.
Then, Paul starts speaking to the Gentiles (10:13), and tells them that they shouldn't think they're all that either, because the Jews were God's chosen people - they were welcomed in and made part of the family, but the Jews were first.
He essentially takes away any reason for anyone to boast. That must have been a problem. Sort of like denominations nowadays.
Then it looks like he switches and talk to everyone (12:1) and gives some basic instructions for living for Christ - all very practical. He then sums up the Jew / Gentile conversation (15:7) then shares some information about himself (15:14) then some closing remarks.
All in all, it seems Romans' emphasis is for one group not to think they are better than another group, that only faith in Christ is what matters, and God used the law to lay a foundation for people to be able to accept Christ.
Now I can get back to missing Karen.
Sunday, May 21, 2006
Acts
A month or so ago Huldah Buntaine was at our church, sharing what God was doing in Calcutta. She knew Mother Theresa, which was pretty cool. About three weeks ago we had our debit card compromised and someone stole $760.00 from our bank account. Then, the following week Dr. David Wang was at church (from Asian Outreach) sharing what God was doing in the Chinese church. That day I felt that if the 760.00 got reimbursed by our bank (they have insurance and all) that I should give it to missions. After it was stolen, I worked it out so I could manage without it, so I really didn't need it. I don't know if it was a God-thing or just me, but nonetheless, I figured it wasn't a bad thing.
Before church this morning I read Acts. Tomorrow, Karen (my wife) is going with nine other women to Ukraine for a short-term (10 days) missions trip. I don't know if any of this has bearing on anything, except that now I see that Acts is all about missions. Jesus left his disciples, gave them the Holy Spirit, and the rest is Christian History.
There are some really neat stories about people: Peter, Stephen, Philip, Saul (Paul), Barnabas, Timothy and Silas. The thing that struck me as I read was that the main characters took every opportunity to talk about Jesus. Everything, they used it to draw attention to Jesus. Missions.
Paul travelled all over the place, freely. Then, he managed to make his way to Rome, as a prisoner. He used the fact that he used to be a Pharisee to win credibility to share Jesus to the Jewish officials. He used his Roman citizenship to get an audience with Roman officials so he could tell him about Jesus. His trip to Rome was to see the Emporer, as a prisoner, which was I'm sure, to tell him about Jesus.
As each of them travelled and taught, they performed miracles, all for the purpose of gettign peoples attention and gettign an audience so they could tell them about Jesus. Then, they prayed for them that they would be filled with the Holy Spirit.
There are lots of specific lessons that can be learned here for me, and I'll be back for a deeper read in the future. For example, in the story of Cornelius, and angel appears to him, a non-Jew, and says "God has heard your prayers and knows about your gifts to the poor" (10:4). God sent Peter to him, and Peter was able to use this experience later to show that god wanted to draw all people to him, not just Jews.
So, I was not necessarily excited about Karen's trip before. I was happy for the experience for her, and support her in prayer, morale and finance. The disciples did two things immediately after Jesus left: they waited, then they went. We've already received the Holy Spirit, now she's going, so she's walking in the steps of the early church.
I work in Developmental Services. The majority of my peers in other agencies are socially and politically active, very well educated, and not many are followers of Christ. As a matter of fact, many likely do not have any examples of Christ in their lives - I'm probably it. I like the fact that God gave wisdom to Peter and Paul and the others as they preached and taught. I like that they were able to have the respect of many audiences even though they were not well educated. That gives me hope. Somehow, I might be able to be an example to people who far exceed my knowledge, education and experience. I like that God uses people that are not at the top of the ladder.
Before church this morning I read Acts. Tomorrow, Karen (my wife) is going with nine other women to Ukraine for a short-term (10 days) missions trip. I don't know if any of this has bearing on anything, except that now I see that Acts is all about missions. Jesus left his disciples, gave them the Holy Spirit, and the rest is Christian History.
There are some really neat stories about people: Peter, Stephen, Philip, Saul (Paul), Barnabas, Timothy and Silas. The thing that struck me as I read was that the main characters took every opportunity to talk about Jesus. Everything, they used it to draw attention to Jesus. Missions.
Paul travelled all over the place, freely. Then, he managed to make his way to Rome, as a prisoner. He used the fact that he used to be a Pharisee to win credibility to share Jesus to the Jewish officials. He used his Roman citizenship to get an audience with Roman officials so he could tell him about Jesus. His trip to Rome was to see the Emporer, as a prisoner, which was I'm sure, to tell him about Jesus.
As each of them travelled and taught, they performed miracles, all for the purpose of gettign peoples attention and gettign an audience so they could tell them about Jesus. Then, they prayed for them that they would be filled with the Holy Spirit.
There are lots of specific lessons that can be learned here for me, and I'll be back for a deeper read in the future. For example, in the story of Cornelius, and angel appears to him, a non-Jew, and says "God has heard your prayers and knows about your gifts to the poor" (10:4). God sent Peter to him, and Peter was able to use this experience later to show that god wanted to draw all people to him, not just Jews.
So, I was not necessarily excited about Karen's trip before. I was happy for the experience for her, and support her in prayer, morale and finance. The disciples did two things immediately after Jesus left: they waited, then they went. We've already received the Holy Spirit, now she's going, so she's walking in the steps of the early church.
I work in Developmental Services. The majority of my peers in other agencies are socially and politically active, very well educated, and not many are followers of Christ. As a matter of fact, many likely do not have any examples of Christ in their lives - I'm probably it. I like the fact that God gave wisdom to Peter and Paul and the others as they preached and taught. I like that they were able to have the respect of many audiences even though they were not well educated. That gives me hope. Somehow, I might be able to be an example to people who far exceed my knowledge, education and experience. I like that God uses people that are not at the top of the ladder.
Tuesday, May 09, 2006
John
It's been a couple weeks since I read Luke. I wasn't sure why I was waiting to read John, but this past Sunday morning we had Dr. David Wang (www.asianoutreach.org) at church. He spoke using John 9. I think I waited so that I could hear his talk and have it influence how I read John.
Dr. Wang talked about the Chinese church, how it had simple faith, prayer, evangelism and mission. As for simple faith, his thought was that the western church, and the disciples, made it complicated. "Who sinned, that this boy was born blind?" When all Jesus wanted to do was show his glory. When challenged later, the boy said simply "Once I was blind, now I can see." He taught that there is arrogance in sophistication, and Jesus wants us simply to know him.
Then, reading John yesterday morning took on a different slant. As I have shared with some people my approach to reading the Bible this past year, some challenge me that I'm not getting deep enough. They think I'm just skim reading, which is not the case - I'm reading thoroughly, with an open mind, not expecting a particular message but letting the text, "the Word," speak to me.
John's interesting. He doesn't record many miracles. Mostly he has recorded conversations and teachings of Jesus. If I had to sum up my thoughts about John, pick one phrase that captures what I've learned, it's in 14:11. Jesus says "Have faith in me when I say that the Father is one with me and that I am one with the Father. Or else have faith in me simply because of the things I do." John presents Jesus and someone who wants to be known by us, he wants us to know how much he, who is the the Father, loves us. I know people pick John 3:16 as their favourite verse. I guess that is the background to why Jesus came. I think 14:11 explains his method.
The miracles were second nature for Jesus. He doesn't seem to focus too much on them. But he knows that's what we need. I know he said that we would do even greater things than he did, but in context, the miracles are not something we should seek after, as much as it should just flow out of our relationship with him. I was raised Pentecostal. The emphasis in my upbringing has always been on supernatural things. I find that a focus on supernatural for me puts the onus for change externally, but Jesus wants us to be changed internally. The external will follow.
Now I think I'm just rambling.
Dr. Wang talked about our tendency to theologize, to be sophisticated. He says we need to be simple. That's what I want, but there is a constant pull in my life between sophistication and Jesus, between knowing about him, and knowing him.
Dr. Wang talked about the Chinese church, how it had simple faith, prayer, evangelism and mission. As for simple faith, his thought was that the western church, and the disciples, made it complicated. "Who sinned, that this boy was born blind?" When all Jesus wanted to do was show his glory. When challenged later, the boy said simply "Once I was blind, now I can see." He taught that there is arrogance in sophistication, and Jesus wants us simply to know him.
Then, reading John yesterday morning took on a different slant. As I have shared with some people my approach to reading the Bible this past year, some challenge me that I'm not getting deep enough. They think I'm just skim reading, which is not the case - I'm reading thoroughly, with an open mind, not expecting a particular message but letting the text, "the Word," speak to me.
John's interesting. He doesn't record many miracles. Mostly he has recorded conversations and teachings of Jesus. If I had to sum up my thoughts about John, pick one phrase that captures what I've learned, it's in 14:11. Jesus says "Have faith in me when I say that the Father is one with me and that I am one with the Father. Or else have faith in me simply because of the things I do." John presents Jesus and someone who wants to be known by us, he wants us to know how much he, who is the the Father, loves us. I know people pick John 3:16 as their favourite verse. I guess that is the background to why Jesus came. I think 14:11 explains his method.
The miracles were second nature for Jesus. He doesn't seem to focus too much on them. But he knows that's what we need. I know he said that we would do even greater things than he did, but in context, the miracles are not something we should seek after, as much as it should just flow out of our relationship with him. I was raised Pentecostal. The emphasis in my upbringing has always been on supernatural things. I find that a focus on supernatural for me puts the onus for change externally, but Jesus wants us to be changed internally. The external will follow.
Now I think I'm just rambling.
Dr. Wang talked about our tendency to theologize, to be sophisticated. He says we need to be simple. That's what I want, but there is a constant pull in my life between sophistication and Jesus, between knowing about him, and knowing him.
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Luke
I started reading Luke this past Tuesday morning at a hotel where I was for some work meetings. I had time to get through the first nine chapters, but only was able to get back to it this morning to finish it.
I was struck by the emphasis on teaching in Luke. More often than not, the miracles seem to be an aside to what Jesus was doing. Often, he'd interrupt his teaching to heal someone, or heal them to make a point.
I was also struck by people's inability to grasp what seems to be obvious. On three occasions, Luke notes that Mary didn't understand what God meant when she was told about Jesus. Later, at the empty tomb, Peter saw it was empty, after the ladies told him about the angels' message, and he "wondered what had happened."
I can't imagine what it must have been like to people in Jesus' day to be listening to his teaching and watching his life. It was so against what the people were taught about God, and what they expected of God and his return, that it was clearly hard to grasp. I guess if you believed something all your life, even if you saw it with your own eyes, it would be hard to undo that previous understanding.
Of course, in Luke especially, it seems Jesus spent a lot of time devoted to telling the Pharisees and the leaders in the temple that they had gotten it wrong. They had the information to draw people to God (the Scriptures), but they we're holding it from them. They were not modeling the Law of Moses as God intended. They wanted to be honoured, but God wanted them to honour others. They wanted prominence, but God doesn't want to share that. Instead, he wants to give favour to "the least of these."
I find it interesting that in response to John's question about Jesus, Jesus says 'blessed are those who do not fall away because of what Jesus did.' I guess Jesus himself understood that people were finding his teachings and actions hard to take.
Jesus was a revolutionary. He healed when he wasn't supposed to. He ate with those he shouldn't have. He spent time with people that he was not supposed to. Of course, these rules were what the people had made up and / or believed. Jesus taught and showed that his people needed to look out for those in need, that that was who his father was after. In 10:21, Jesus thanks his father: "I am grateful that you hid all this from wise and educated people and showed it to ordinary people. Yes, Father, that is what pleased you." I like that, because I'm ordinary. I realize that the world looks at accomplishments, education and acclaim; God looks at people's dependence on Him.
I think the thing that struck me the most is Jesus' observation about the widow's offering in 21:1-4 -- "Jesus looked up and saw some rich people tossing their gifts into the offering box. He also saw a poor widow putting in two pennies. And he said, 'I tell you that this poor woman has put in more than all the others. Everyone else gave what they didn't need. But she is very poor and gave everything she had.'"
Jesus spent a lot of his time trying to debunk the teachings and lifestyles of the leaders of the temple. Here, he praises the widow for her offering, all she had, to the temple. I didn't see it before, but in other cases Jesus told his followers to sell everything and give it away. In some cases, it was to the poor, in other cases, it was to God, which I can only assume would be through the temple.
In spite of its shortcomings, and even corruption, Jesus must have seen that the temple was God's place and that there was still hope in it. He also spent a lot of time teaching in the temple, even though it was against the leaders in the temple.
If I were to translate that to today, it seems that although there may be some challenges within the structure of church, it is still a place where God wants to do something. I'm sure there's more there for me to learn, if I just think about it.
I was struck by the emphasis on teaching in Luke. More often than not, the miracles seem to be an aside to what Jesus was doing. Often, he'd interrupt his teaching to heal someone, or heal them to make a point.
I was also struck by people's inability to grasp what seems to be obvious. On three occasions, Luke notes that Mary didn't understand what God meant when she was told about Jesus. Later, at the empty tomb, Peter saw it was empty, after the ladies told him about the angels' message, and he "wondered what had happened."
I can't imagine what it must have been like to people in Jesus' day to be listening to his teaching and watching his life. It was so against what the people were taught about God, and what they expected of God and his return, that it was clearly hard to grasp. I guess if you believed something all your life, even if you saw it with your own eyes, it would be hard to undo that previous understanding.
Of course, in Luke especially, it seems Jesus spent a lot of time devoted to telling the Pharisees and the leaders in the temple that they had gotten it wrong. They had the information to draw people to God (the Scriptures), but they we're holding it from them. They were not modeling the Law of Moses as God intended. They wanted to be honoured, but God wanted them to honour others. They wanted prominence, but God doesn't want to share that. Instead, he wants to give favour to "the least of these."
I find it interesting that in response to John's question about Jesus, Jesus says 'blessed are those who do not fall away because of what Jesus did.' I guess Jesus himself understood that people were finding his teachings and actions hard to take.
Jesus was a revolutionary. He healed when he wasn't supposed to. He ate with those he shouldn't have. He spent time with people that he was not supposed to. Of course, these rules were what the people had made up and / or believed. Jesus taught and showed that his people needed to look out for those in need, that that was who his father was after. In 10:21, Jesus thanks his father: "I am grateful that you hid all this from wise and educated people and showed it to ordinary people. Yes, Father, that is what pleased you." I like that, because I'm ordinary. I realize that the world looks at accomplishments, education and acclaim; God looks at people's dependence on Him.
I think the thing that struck me the most is Jesus' observation about the widow's offering in 21:1-4 -- "Jesus looked up and saw some rich people tossing their gifts into the offering box. He also saw a poor widow putting in two pennies. And he said, 'I tell you that this poor woman has put in more than all the others. Everyone else gave what they didn't need. But she is very poor and gave everything she had.'"
Jesus spent a lot of his time trying to debunk the teachings and lifestyles of the leaders of the temple. Here, he praises the widow for her offering, all she had, to the temple. I didn't see it before, but in other cases Jesus told his followers to sell everything and give it away. In some cases, it was to the poor, in other cases, it was to God, which I can only assume would be through the temple.
In spite of its shortcomings, and even corruption, Jesus must have seen that the temple was God's place and that there was still hope in it. He also spent a lot of time teaching in the temple, even though it was against the leaders in the temple.
If I were to translate that to today, it seems that although there may be some challenges within the structure of church, it is still a place where God wants to do something. I'm sure there's more there for me to learn, if I just think about it.
Monday, April 17, 2006
Mark
I've often read that Mark is the 'Action" gospel. Makes sense, because it's like he's thinking "Let's get to it" right from the first sentence. In a matter of paragraphs, Mark gets right to the miracles. But, it seems Jesus was trying to teach or talk or visit with people whenever someone needed him to do something supernatural. Even then, he'd tell them not to tell anyone, yet people still heard how this fellow from Gallilee was doing miracles.
All in all, Mark contains the same stories that are in Matthew, but generally less detail. Jesus spent a lot of time talking to the religious folks and telling them they had it all wrong. He also told a lot of stories.
Yesterday at church someone told me that they could handle me wearing sandals to church, but the blue jeans were a bit much. The funny thing is that only motivates me to dress even more down next week. Then I read Jesus' words when he quotes Isaiah (Mk 7:6-7): "You are nothing but show-offs! The prophet Isaiah was right when he wrote that God had said, 'All of you praise me with your words, but you never really think about me. It is useless for you to worship me, when you teach rules made up by humans.'" Then, a few sentences later (7:20-23): "What comes from your heart is what makes you unclean. Out of your heart come evil thoughts, vulgar deeds, stealing, murder, unfaithfulness in marriage, greed, meanness, deceit, indecency, envy, insults, pride, and foolishness. All of these come from your heart, and they are what make you unfit to worship God."
I don't think the people that dislike my blue jeans are show-offs, necessarily, but their rationale makes no sense. They talk about respectful clothing for church. Who defines respectful? God's standard is modesty and the heart, not the type of clothes. If we wore what Jesus wore, it would be sandals and dresses. Pardon my cynicism, but things are the same today as it as in Jesus' day - people emphasize the wrong stuff, not heart-changes, and they are still ignoring "evil thoughts, vulgar deeds, stealing, murder, unfaithfulness in marriage, greed, meanness, deceit, indecency, envy, insults, pride, and foolishness." This is happening all over the body of Christ, and people are perseverating on blue jeans.
Clearly, this is a sore spot for me.
I think it is interesting that Jesus told stories. I also think it's interesting that the disciples didn't get it, even after he explained it. In 8:31, Jess talks about dying, then coming back to life. Then, Mark says "Jesus explained clearly what he meant." Six days later, Jesus talked again about beign raised from the dead, and his disciples wondered, but kept it to themselves, what he meant by that.
I find comfort in the fact the disciples were right there, day in and day out, with Jesus, and they didn't get it. I've learned over the past couple years, and especially as I've gone through this exercising of reading and journalling, that I often have no idea why God does what he does. Yes, I know it's a love thing, but in the day to day, sometimes God does not make sense to me. I've learned not to let that bother me, just to take it as it comes and trust. But, Jesus disciples had in their own mind what they expected of the Messiah, and I guess that clouded their ability to see and hear what he was living and teaching to them. I imagine I'm the same way - the world and church around me, my own opinions, all have worked together to cloud my view of what a follower of Christ looks like. Why is there such a huge gap between what Jesus expects of me and what others of his followers expect of me?
All in all, Mark contains the same stories that are in Matthew, but generally less detail. Jesus spent a lot of time talking to the religious folks and telling them they had it all wrong. He also told a lot of stories.
Yesterday at church someone told me that they could handle me wearing sandals to church, but the blue jeans were a bit much. The funny thing is that only motivates me to dress even more down next week. Then I read Jesus' words when he quotes Isaiah (Mk 7:6-7): "You are nothing but show-offs! The prophet Isaiah was right when he wrote that God had said, 'All of you praise me with your words, but you never really think about me. It is useless for you to worship me, when you teach rules made up by humans.'" Then, a few sentences later (7:20-23): "What comes from your heart is what makes you unclean. Out of your heart come evil thoughts, vulgar deeds, stealing, murder, unfaithfulness in marriage, greed, meanness, deceit, indecency, envy, insults, pride, and foolishness. All of these come from your heart, and they are what make you unfit to worship God."
I don't think the people that dislike my blue jeans are show-offs, necessarily, but their rationale makes no sense. They talk about respectful clothing for church. Who defines respectful? God's standard is modesty and the heart, not the type of clothes. If we wore what Jesus wore, it would be sandals and dresses. Pardon my cynicism, but things are the same today as it as in Jesus' day - people emphasize the wrong stuff, not heart-changes, and they are still ignoring "evil thoughts, vulgar deeds, stealing, murder, unfaithfulness in marriage, greed, meanness, deceit, indecency, envy, insults, pride, and foolishness." This is happening all over the body of Christ, and people are perseverating on blue jeans.
Clearly, this is a sore spot for me.
I think it is interesting that Jesus told stories. I also think it's interesting that the disciples didn't get it, even after he explained it. In 8:31, Jess talks about dying, then coming back to life. Then, Mark says "Jesus explained clearly what he meant." Six days later, Jesus talked again about beign raised from the dead, and his disciples wondered, but kept it to themselves, what he meant by that.
I find comfort in the fact the disciples were right there, day in and day out, with Jesus, and they didn't get it. I've learned over the past couple years, and especially as I've gone through this exercising of reading and journalling, that I often have no idea why God does what he does. Yes, I know it's a love thing, but in the day to day, sometimes God does not make sense to me. I've learned not to let that bother me, just to take it as it comes and trust. But, Jesus disciples had in their own mind what they expected of the Messiah, and I guess that clouded their ability to see and hear what he was living and teaching to them. I imagine I'm the same way - the world and church around me, my own opinions, all have worked together to cloud my view of what a follower of Christ looks like. Why is there such a huge gap between what Jesus expects of me and what others of his followers expect of me?
Saturday, April 15, 2006
Matthew
Reading Matthew after just finishing the Old Testament put a bit of a different spin on it for me. For example, the genealogy right at the getgo actually means something. Matthew listed Jesus ancestors, and established that he was from the line of Abraham and David. In doing so, he draws attention to Judah and Tamar, Rahab, and Solomon and Bathsheba. He also notes some of the Kings who were part of his line, such as Ahaz and Manasseh. Had I not just finished the Old Testament, I would not fully appreciate the evil that these people committed. Ahaz and Manasseh were evil Kings. Tamar was Judah's daughter-in-law, who pretended to be a prostitute and Judah got her pregnant. Solomon slept with Bathsheba while her husband was still alive and then had her husband killed. Rahab was a prostitute and also a liar.
When I first read the line of David in Chronicles, it occurred to me then that Jesus family line was really screwed up. I realize Matthew was trying to establish his heritage, but it seems he also established that Jesus was coming as a regular person, with all the crazy baggage that any one of us might have.
Matthew also took every chance he could to say that something Jesus said or did was in fulfillment of or according to a prophecy. He seems to have wanted to prove to his readers that Jesus was indeed the Messiah, the prophesied one.
In reading it through yesterday morning, I was struck by how Matthew just went from one miracle to another in his telling if the story of Jesus. Then, he'd interrupt the miracles with a teaching session from Jesus. Matthew's first recorded teaching of Jesus was the "Sermon on the Mount," which was to the general public Matthew's second recorded teaching was Jesus lesson to the disciples. After that, he records a talk Jesus has with the Pharisees and teachers of the Law. This was all between miracle stories. I think I'm as impressed by how Matthew put the book together by the stories contained within.
There was not a lot of detail in the miracle stories. Sort of like "here's what happened, ok, next." Jesus teaching, on the other hand, he was not as quick to get through.
This is Easter weekend. Even the Easter story itself, the culmination of Jesus' physical existence on earth, was told in a couple of pages. It's like Matthew wanted to get to the miracle of the resurrection and ascension so that he can finish it up with Jesus last words, to go and make disciples, and that he'd always be with us.
There are so many important lessons in this book: be like a child, don't try to be first - try to be last, do something to demonstrate that we are followers of God, faith in God can accomplish great things, don't be a show off, be humble, and the list goes on. I guess an emphasis on the lessons themselves will be for the next time I read and study Matthew.
For now though, this exercise has been teaching me so many things. And Jesus summed up how I feel in 13:52 - "So he told them, 'Every student of the Scriptures who becomes a disciple in the kingdom of heaven is like someone who brings out new and old treasures from the storeroom.'" I'm learning things that I had forgotten from childhood. I'm also learning things that I had not known before, although I had read it before. I don't think I could have articulated it before now, but I think I'm becoming a student of the Scriptures.
When I first read the line of David in Chronicles, it occurred to me then that Jesus family line was really screwed up. I realize Matthew was trying to establish his heritage, but it seems he also established that Jesus was coming as a regular person, with all the crazy baggage that any one of us might have.
Matthew also took every chance he could to say that something Jesus said or did was in fulfillment of or according to a prophecy. He seems to have wanted to prove to his readers that Jesus was indeed the Messiah, the prophesied one.
In reading it through yesterday morning, I was struck by how Matthew just went from one miracle to another in his telling if the story of Jesus. Then, he'd interrupt the miracles with a teaching session from Jesus. Matthew's first recorded teaching of Jesus was the "Sermon on the Mount," which was to the general public Matthew's second recorded teaching was Jesus lesson to the disciples. After that, he records a talk Jesus has with the Pharisees and teachers of the Law. This was all between miracle stories. I think I'm as impressed by how Matthew put the book together by the stories contained within.
There was not a lot of detail in the miracle stories. Sort of like "here's what happened, ok, next." Jesus teaching, on the other hand, he was not as quick to get through.
This is Easter weekend. Even the Easter story itself, the culmination of Jesus' physical existence on earth, was told in a couple of pages. It's like Matthew wanted to get to the miracle of the resurrection and ascension so that he can finish it up with Jesus last words, to go and make disciples, and that he'd always be with us.
There are so many important lessons in this book: be like a child, don't try to be first - try to be last, do something to demonstrate that we are followers of God, faith in God can accomplish great things, don't be a show off, be humble, and the list goes on. I guess an emphasis on the lessons themselves will be for the next time I read and study Matthew.
For now though, this exercise has been teaching me so many things. And Jesus summed up how I feel in 13:52 - "So he told them, 'Every student of the Scriptures who becomes a disciple in the kingdom of heaven is like someone who brings out new and old treasures from the storeroom.'" I'm learning things that I had forgotten from childhood. I'm also learning things that I had not known before, although I had read it before. I don't think I could have articulated it before now, but I think I'm becoming a student of the Scriptures.
Thursday, March 30, 2006
Malachi
The internet is cool. Right now I'm at a Holiday Inn in Kitchener, and they provide wireless internet access to their guests. So, I can read and then make my notes all at once.
Well, I did it. Malachi. I've finished the entire Old Testament. I read Malachi many times before, and have heard it quoted too many times to be counted regarding tithing. I am pleased to say that I do not struggle with tithing. My parents taught me from when I was a child, and I have seen the fruit of tithing. God has always been faithful to me financially, and my wife and I have never been without. Our bills get paid and we have stuff left over to live.
I don't agree with the whole "Prosperity Gospel" school of thought. A lot of people teach that Christians should be rich, and while God uses them in many ways, I don't particularly think that all Christians should be rich. What I mean by rich is that we should drive BMWs and live in big houses and all that. Right in Malachi it states again that we need to be taking care of the poor, so I don't see me hoarding up money being able to balance itself with the fact that there are still poor people.
But I'm not sure if my opinion is just for me or for all Christians. I really would like to buy a Dodge Magnum. It would be easily $40,000, with crazy gas consumption. I can't justify a purchase like that when a Civic or some other small car can get me around just find. Mind you, I like new cars, and some might disagree with buying new when you can get a used car for cheaper.
Malachi spends more time telling the priests what they are doing wrong then talking about tithing. I don't hear much preaching on that. Essentially, it boils down to them not doing what they said they would do (1:14).
And so, like so many of the other books that I have read, a couple verses / thoughts stand out to me:
3:5 - "I'm now on my way to judge you. And I will quickly condemn all who practice witchcraft or cheat in marriage or tell lies in court or rob workers of their pay or mistreat widows and orphans or steal the property of foreigners or refuse to respect me." And then the end of 3:7 - "But if you return to me, I will return to you."
God wants us to follow him, and here in Malachi he tells his people that he is sending his messenger and then he will come. His messenger "will lead children and parents to love each other more, so that when I come, I won't bring doom to the land" (4:6). God doesn't want to condemn, but the people brought it on themselves. All they had to do was give God their money, and take care of each other. If they did that, he'd be pleased.
Well, I did it. Malachi. I've finished the entire Old Testament. I read Malachi many times before, and have heard it quoted too many times to be counted regarding tithing. I am pleased to say that I do not struggle with tithing. My parents taught me from when I was a child, and I have seen the fruit of tithing. God has always been faithful to me financially, and my wife and I have never been without. Our bills get paid and we have stuff left over to live.
I don't agree with the whole "Prosperity Gospel" school of thought. A lot of people teach that Christians should be rich, and while God uses them in many ways, I don't particularly think that all Christians should be rich. What I mean by rich is that we should drive BMWs and live in big houses and all that. Right in Malachi it states again that we need to be taking care of the poor, so I don't see me hoarding up money being able to balance itself with the fact that there are still poor people.
But I'm not sure if my opinion is just for me or for all Christians. I really would like to buy a Dodge Magnum. It would be easily $40,000, with crazy gas consumption. I can't justify a purchase like that when a Civic or some other small car can get me around just find. Mind you, I like new cars, and some might disagree with buying new when you can get a used car for cheaper.
Malachi spends more time telling the priests what they are doing wrong then talking about tithing. I don't hear much preaching on that. Essentially, it boils down to them not doing what they said they would do (1:14).
And so, like so many of the other books that I have read, a couple verses / thoughts stand out to me:
3:5 - "I'm now on my way to judge you. And I will quickly condemn all who practice witchcraft or cheat in marriage or tell lies in court or rob workers of their pay or mistreat widows and orphans or steal the property of foreigners or refuse to respect me." And then the end of 3:7 - "But if you return to me, I will return to you."
God wants us to follow him, and here in Malachi he tells his people that he is sending his messenger and then he will come. His messenger "will lead children and parents to love each other more, so that when I come, I won't bring doom to the land" (4:6). God doesn't want to condemn, but the people brought it on themselves. All they had to do was give God their money, and take care of each other. If they did that, he'd be pleased.
Monday, March 20, 2006
Zechariah
Well, Zechariah is my kind of prophet. Not only does God give him visions, but he also sends someone along to interpret. In each vision, Zechariah gets to see it, then ask the accompanying angel what it means. Why?
I think it is summed in the sentiment of 7:7 - "My message today is the same one I commanded the earlier prophets to speak to Jerusalem and its villages when they were prosperous, and when all of Judah, including the Southern Desert and the hill country, was filled with people."
They didn't get it. God sent all sorts of signs and messages, and his people still disobeyed. This time, he gives the message and to make it idiot-proof, has an angel standing by to tell Zechariah what it means.
And if 7:7 weren't enough, then there's the message: 7:8-9 - "So once again, I, the LORD All-Powerful, tell you, "See that justice is done and be kind and merciful to one another! Don't mistreat widows or orphans or foreigners or anyone who is poor, and stop making plans to hurt each other." Widows and orphans. How many times did God have to tell them?
I was at a funeral on Saturday. One of my pastors and I were talking about a previous guest speaker at church who pastors in Quebec. The Quebec church is growing and making a difference in its' community. My pastor told me that the Quebec pastor was told one piece of advice by a mentor when he started in ministry, and that everything else would fall into place. "Take care of the poor!" He said it like it was some huge revelation. Take care of the poor. How is it that we've read the Bible through and through, we've created Bible Colleges and Seminaries, built mega-churches and TV ministries, and we've missed it? Take care of the poor. It's all over Scripture. Why did I not see that before?
I'm about to get into the New Testament. That's all Jesus did - hung out with the disenfranchised. Why are churches (maybe not all of them) so pristine and clean? Ok, so maybe I need therapy.
Zechariah goes on to share a promise of prosperity for Israel and Judah and to tell of the One to come in humility who will rule with mercy and justice. Then there will be peace.
I think it is summed in the sentiment of 7:7 - "My message today is the same one I commanded the earlier prophets to speak to Jerusalem and its villages when they were prosperous, and when all of Judah, including the Southern Desert and the hill country, was filled with people."
They didn't get it. God sent all sorts of signs and messages, and his people still disobeyed. This time, he gives the message and to make it idiot-proof, has an angel standing by to tell Zechariah what it means.
And if 7:7 weren't enough, then there's the message: 7:8-9 - "So once again, I, the LORD All-Powerful, tell you, "See that justice is done and be kind and merciful to one another! Don't mistreat widows or orphans or foreigners or anyone who is poor, and stop making plans to hurt each other." Widows and orphans. How many times did God have to tell them?
I was at a funeral on Saturday. One of my pastors and I were talking about a previous guest speaker at church who pastors in Quebec. The Quebec church is growing and making a difference in its' community. My pastor told me that the Quebec pastor was told one piece of advice by a mentor when he started in ministry, and that everything else would fall into place. "Take care of the poor!" He said it like it was some huge revelation. Take care of the poor. How is it that we've read the Bible through and through, we've created Bible Colleges and Seminaries, built mega-churches and TV ministries, and we've missed it? Take care of the poor. It's all over Scripture. Why did I not see that before?
I'm about to get into the New Testament. That's all Jesus did - hung out with the disenfranchised. Why are churches (maybe not all of them) so pristine and clean? Ok, so maybe I need therapy.
Zechariah goes on to share a promise of prosperity for Israel and Judah and to tell of the One to come in humility who will rule with mercy and justice. Then there will be peace.
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
Haggai
I read Haggai through twice yesterday morning to try and see how it might apply to me. My pastor taught us that's how we need to read - asking the question: What is it saying to me?
Haggai, in short, shared his message after Israel was in exile, under King Darius. Haggai's message was to the people to stop focusing on their houses and start focusing on rebuilding the temple. 1:2-5 - "You say this isn't the right time to build a temple for me. But is it right for you to live in expensive houses, while my temple is a pile of ruins?"
What is it saying to me? I don't think I need to be giving money to building at the church, nor am I spending a lot on my house. For me, I think it is about priorities in general. At that time, God's presence lived at the temple, and he wanted his people to come back to him. Their lack of attention on the temple was indicative of their focus on themselves, not on God.
In my case, tonnes of things call my attention away from God. Problems at work. My and my wife's work schedule. The need for sleep. A plasma TV. OK, I'm not sure that the plasma TV is taking my attention away from God, but I really want one, and haven't had the release (or money, for that matter) to buy one.
I try hard to focus on what's important: God, family, work. But often it becomes work first, then I'm too tired to do anything else. Thank God for his grace. I know it's not a good excuse, but in the midst of my messed up priorities he still allows me opportunities to experience his presence and grow closer to him. Like Israel, my success has everything to do with God and little to do with me.
Haggai, in short, shared his message after Israel was in exile, under King Darius. Haggai's message was to the people to stop focusing on their houses and start focusing on rebuilding the temple. 1:2-5 - "You say this isn't the right time to build a temple for me. But is it right for you to live in expensive houses, while my temple is a pile of ruins?"
What is it saying to me? I don't think I need to be giving money to building at the church, nor am I spending a lot on my house. For me, I think it is about priorities in general. At that time, God's presence lived at the temple, and he wanted his people to come back to him. Their lack of attention on the temple was indicative of their focus on themselves, not on God.
In my case, tonnes of things call my attention away from God. Problems at work. My and my wife's work schedule. The need for sleep. A plasma TV. OK, I'm not sure that the plasma TV is taking my attention away from God, but I really want one, and haven't had the release (or money, for that matter) to buy one.
I try hard to focus on what's important: God, family, work. But often it becomes work first, then I'm too tired to do anything else. Thank God for his grace. I know it's not a good excuse, but in the midst of my messed up priorities he still allows me opportunities to experience his presence and grow closer to him. Like Israel, my success has everything to do with God and little to do with me.
Thursday, March 09, 2006
Zephaniah
More judgement. God promises to destroy the world (Israel?), then says "If you humbly obey the Lord, then come and worship him. If you do right and are humble, perhaps you will be safe on that day when the Lord turns loose in his anger" (2:3).
Then, God states the punishment on the countries that were against Israel,a nd in some cases says "then my people who survive will take the land." He knows thta even after Israel is destroyed, some people will have turned back to him. They will be his people. 3:20 - "I will lead you home, and with your own eyes you will see me bless you with all you once owned."
Then, God states the punishment on the countries that were against Israel,a nd in some cases says "then my people who survive will take the land." He knows thta even after Israel is destroyed, some people will have turned back to him. They will be his people. 3:20 - "I will lead you home, and with your own eyes you will see me bless you with all you once owned."
Habakkuk
This is a conversation between Habakkuk and God. Habakkuk complains about the violence and injustice in Israel, God says he's sending the Babylonians to destroy Israel and punish it, then Habukkuk takes issue with a country like Babylon executing judgement on Israel. God then says Babylon will be punished later.
A key statement that stands out for me is 2:3 & 4 - "You can trust what I say about the future. It may take a long time, but keep on waiting - it will happen. I, the Lord, refuse to accept anyone who is proud. Only those who live by faith are acceptable to me."
Habukkuk ends his writing with praise: "But I will still celebrate becasue the Lord God saves me. The Lord gives me strength." (3:18-19). Then, he writes a note to the music director, tellign him to use stringed instruments. He was so confident in his statements that he encourages it to be sung about.
A key statement that stands out for me is 2:3 & 4 - "You can trust what I say about the future. It may take a long time, but keep on waiting - it will happen. I, the Lord, refuse to accept anyone who is proud. Only those who live by faith are acceptable to me."
Habukkuk ends his writing with praise: "But I will still celebrate becasue the Lord God saves me. The Lord gives me strength." (3:18-19). Then, he writes a note to the music director, tellign him to use stringed instruments. He was so confident in his statements that he encourages it to be sung about.
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
Nahum
Nahum says that he wrote his message down, not that he proclaimed it. His message likely was about 80 years after Jonah (according to the editors of my Bible) and he was writing about judgement on Ninevah. So God gave Ninevah a chance, forgave them, but here they are again. This time there is no chance for forgiveness. They're dead.
And in the midst he declares his promise to Israel: "Judah and Israel are like trees with branches broken by their enemies. But the LORD is going to restore their power and glory."
And in the midst he declares his promise to Israel: "Judah and Israel are like trees with branches broken by their enemies. But the LORD is going to restore their power and glory."
Micah
Jonah was a short read, and I had some time this morning, so I opted toread Micah and Nahum as well. Micah's message was well before the exile. The one theme I noticed more than others was his emphasis on injustice in Isreal and Judah. The justice system seemed to be corrupt, its participants using it for their benefit.
Micah said the same of the prophets and priests - that they preached nice messages as long as they were taken care of.
The verse that has always stuck out for me in Micah is 6:8 - "The LORD God has told us what is right and what he demands: 'See that justice is done, let mercy be your first concern, and humbly obey your God.'" This passage makes more sense to me when I read it in a context of a corrupt justice system. As leaders, there is a responsibility to ensure justice is done. I don't think this means enforcement on others, as much as it is praciticing it themselves.
Micah said the same of the prophets and priests - that they preached nice messages as long as they were taken care of.
The verse that has always stuck out for me in Micah is 6:8 - "The LORD God has told us what is right and what he demands: 'See that justice is done, let mercy be your first concern, and humbly obey your God.'" This passage makes more sense to me when I read it in a context of a corrupt justice system. As leaders, there is a responsibility to ensure justice is done. I don't think this means enforcement on others, as much as it is praciticing it themselves.
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