Chew on This!

I'm not going to take up a lot of time today. It's been a busy week...rushing to different hospitals, etc.

I want you to chew on something throughout the weekend. I hope to entertain this topic more next week. Also, if you can grasp the fullness of what I'm about to share it will truly set you free.

Over the years many folks have believed that a person could "fall from grace" - meaning they could lose their salvation. I ask you to think about Paul's words to the Galatian Church. Listen to the truth of what it means to fall from grace. I will add my emphasis in CAPS and we will pick up here next week. May God bless you as you meditate upon His Word.

Galatians 5:4, "You have become estranged from Christ, you who ATTEMPT TO BE JUSTIFIED BY LAW; you have FALLEN FROM GRACE."

Evangelism Conference 2009

March 20, 2009 AD ~ Pioneer Baptist Church will be hosting an Evangelism Conference for the SBC of Virginia. This is an annual conference within our state convention and will be held at 4 locations in 2 days. For more information you can log on to www.sbcv.org/evangelismconference or call 888-234-7716.

I'm particularly excited about our opportunity to host this event. This is my favorite conference of the entire year. It will include messages from Algernon Tennyson, Hershael York, and Grant Ethridge. PBC Praise will be leading worship and this event also includes breakout sessions to better equip God's people in sharing the Gospel.

Yesterday I received a phone call from brother Tennyson and he is excited about coming to Southwest VA to share his gifting as an evangelist. It was a joy to speak with one of God's chosen vessels. Allow me to share you with you some of his testimony as I have come to know it:

Algernon Tennyson grew up in one of the poorest parts of Lithonia, Georgia. As a teenager, he had aspirations of growing up to play in the NBA. During his sophomore year of High School Algernon's life was radically changed through a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Verbally committed to Georgia Tech for basketball Algernon realized that his passion had changed. Basketball was no longer the driving force in his life but rather his new faith in Jesus Christ. What happened? It could have been the fact that during his junior and senior year of High School that God used him to lead over 60 students to Christ!

After a 4 year commitment to the US Navy he entered full-time ministry as an inspirational speaker and evangelist. In 11 years of ministry Algernon has seen thousands of people from every walk of life accept Jesus Christ as Savior & Lord. For more information about his ministry you can go to the web http://www.awakenintl.com/

Algernon's story is just one of many who have been radically saved through faith in Jesus Christ. Do you have a story to share? Has God dramatically impacted your life? Evangelism is simple: It's sharing God's love with others. There's no "right" way to do it. You either share the Gospel or you don't. However, if you would like to be better equipped then this conference is for you.

"But when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, you will receive power and will tell people about me everywhere - in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." Acts 1:8 NLT

The Parable of the River - Max Lucado

Once there were five sons who lived in a mountain castle with their father. The eldest was an obedient son, but his four younger brothers were rebellious. Their father had warned them of the river, but they had not listened. He had begged them to stay clear of the bank lest they be swept downstream, but the river's lure was too strong.

Each day the four rebellious brothers ven­tured closer and closer until one son dared to reach in and feel the waters. "Hold my hand so I won't fall in," he said, and his brothers did. But when he touched the water, the cur­rent yanked him and the other three into the rapids and rolled them down the river.

Over rocks they bounced, through the channels they roared, on the swells they rode. Their cries for help were lost in the rage of the river. Though they fought to gain their balance, they were powerless against the strength of the current After hours of struggle, they surrendered to the pull of the river The waters finally dumped them on the bank in a strange land, in distant country, in a barren place.

Savage people dwelt in the land. It was not safe like their home. Cold winds chilled the land. It was not warm like their home. Rugged mountains marked the land. It was not inviting like their home.

Though they did not know where they were, of one fact the% were sure: They were not intended for this place. For a long time the four young sons lay on the bank, stunned at their fall and nor knowing where to turn. After some time they gathered their courage and reentered the waters, hoping to walk upstream. But the current was too strong. They attempted to walk along the river's edge, but the terrain was too steep. They considered climb­ing the mountains, but the peaks were too high. Besides, they didn't know the way.

Finally, they built a fire and sat down. "We shouldn't have dis­obeyed our father," they admitted. "We are a long way from home." With the passage of time the sons learned to survive in the strange land. They found nuts for food and killed animals for skins. The\ determined not to forget their homeland nor abandon hopes of returning. Each day they set about the task of finding food and build­ing shelter. Each evening they built a fire and told stories of their father and older brother. All four sons longed to see them again.

Then, one night, one brother failed to come to the fire. The others found him the next morning in the valley with the savages. He was building a hut of grass and mud. "I've grown tired of our talks," he told them. "What good does it do to remember? Besides, this land isn't so bad. I will build a great house and settle here."

"But it isn't home," they objected.

"No, but it is if you don't think of the real one." "But what of Father?"

"What of him? He isn't here. He isn't near. Am I to spend for­ever awaiting his arrival? I'm making new friends; I'm learning new ways. If he comes, he comes, but I'm not holding my breath."

And so the other three left their hut-building brother and walked away. They continued to meet around the fire, speaking of home and dreaming of their return.

Some days later a second brother failed to appear at the campfire. The next morning his siblings found him on a hillside staring at the hut of his brother.

"How disgusting," he told them as they approached. "Our brother is an utter failure. An insult to our family name. Can you imagine a more despicable deed? Building a hut and forgetting our father?"

"What he's doing is wrong," agreed the youngest, "but what we did was wrong as well. We disobeyed. We touched the river. We ignored our father's warnings."

"Well, we may have made a mistake or two, but compared to the sleaze in the hut, we are saints. Father will dismiss our sin and pun­ish him."

"Come," urged his two brothers, "return to the fire with us." "No, I think I'll keep an eye on our brother. Someone needs to keep a record of his wrongs to show Father."

And so the two returned, leaving one brother building and the other judging.

The remaining two sons stayed near the fire, encouraging each other and speaking of home. Then one morning the youngest son awoke to find he was alone. He searched for his brother and found him near the river, stacking rocks.

"It's no use," the rock-stacking brother explained as he worked.

"Father won't come for me. I must go to him. I offended him. I insulted him. I failed him. There is only one option. I will build a path back up the river and walk into our father's presence. Rock upon rock I will stack until I have enough rocks to travel upstream to the castle. When he sees how hard I have worked and how dili­gent I have been, he will have no choice but to open the door and let me into his house."

The last brother did not know what to say. He returned to sit by the fire, alone. One morning he heard a familiar voice behind him. "Father has sent me to bring you home."

The youngest lifted his eyes to see the face of his oldest brother. "You have come for us!" he shouted. For a long time the two embraced.

"And your brothers?" the eldest finally asked.

"One has made a home here. Another is watching him. The third is building a path up the river."

And so Firstborn set out to find his siblings. He went first to the thatched hut in the valley.

"Go away, stranger!" screamed the brother through the window. "You are not welcome here!"

"I have come to take you home."

"You have not. You have come to take my mansion." "This is no mansion," Firstborn countered. "This is a hut."

"It is a mansion! The finest in the lowlands. I built it with my own hands. Now, go away. You cannot have my mansion."

"Don't you remember the house of your father?" "I have no father."

"You were born in a castle in a distant land where the air is warm and the fruit is plentiful. You disobeyed your father and ended up in this strange land. I have come to take you home."

The brother peered through the window at Firstborn as if recog­nizing a face he'd remembered from a dream. But the pause was brief, for suddenly the savages in the house filled the window as well. "Go away, intruder!" they demanded. "This is not your home." "You are right," responded the firstborn son, "but neither is it his."

The eyes of the two brothers met again. Once more the hut­building brother felt a tug at his heart, but the savages had won his trust. "He just wants your mansion," they cried. "Send him away!" And so he did.

Firstborn sought the next brother. He didn't have to walk far. On the hillside near the hut, within eyesight of the savages, sat the fault-finding son. When he saw Firstborn approaching, he shouted, "How good that you are here to behold the sin of our brother! Are you aware that he turned his back on the castle? Are you aware that he never speaks of home? I knew you would come. I have kept careful account of his deeds. Punish him! I will applaud your anger. He deserves it! Deal with the sins of our brother."

Firstborn spoke softly, "We need to deal with your sins first." "My sins?"

"Yes, you disobeyed Father."

The son smirked and slapped at the air. "My sins are nothing. There is the sinner," he claimed, pointing to the hut. "Let me tell you of the savages who stay there . . ."

"I'd rather you tell me about yourself."

"Don't worry about me. Let me show you who needs help," he said, running toward the hut. "Come, we'll peek in the windows. He never sees me. Let's go together." The son was at the hut before he noticed that Firstborn hadn't followed him.

Next, the eldest son walked to the river. There he found the last brother, knee-deep in the water, stacking rocks.

"Father has sent me to take you home."

The brother never looked up. "I can't talk now. I must work." "Father knows you have fallen. But he will forgive you. . ."

"He may," the brother interrupted, struggling to keep his balance against the current, "but I have to get to the castle first. I must build a pathway up the river. First I will show him that I am wor­thy. Then I will ask for his mercy."

"He has already given his mercy. I will carry you up the river. You will never be able to build a pathway. The river is too long. The task is too great for your hands. Father sent me to carry you home. I am stronger."

For the first time the rock-stacking brother looked up. "How dare you speak with such irreverence! My father will not simply forgive. I have sinned. I have sinned greatly! He told us to avoid the river, and we disobeyed. I am a great sinner. I need much work."

"No, my brother, you don't need much work. You need much grace. The distance between you and our father's house is too great. You haven't enough strength nor the stones to build the road. That is why our father sent me. He wants me to carry you home."

"Are you saying I can't do it? Are you saying I'm not strong enough? Look at my work. Look at my rocks. Already I can walk five steps!"

"But you have five million to go!"

The younger brother looked at Firstborn with anger. "I know who you are. You are the voice of evil. You are trying to seduce me from my holy work. Get behind me, you serpent!" He hurled at Firstborn the rock he was about to place in the river.

"Heretic!" screamed the path-builder. "Leave this land. You can't stop me! I will build this walkway and stand before my father, and he will have to forgive me. I will win his favor. I will earn his mercy."

Firstborn shook his head. "Favor won is no favor. Mercy earned is no mercy. I implore you, let me carry you up the river."

The response was another rock. So Firstborn turned and left.

The youngest brother was waiting near the fire when Firstborn returned.

"The others didn't come?"

"No. One chose to indulge, the other to judge, and the third to work. None of them chose our father."

"So they will remain here?"

The eldest brother nodded slowly. "For now." "And we will return to Father?" asked the brother. "Yes."

"Will he forgive me?"

"Would he have sent me if he wouldn't?"

And so the younger brother climbed on the back of the Firstborn and began the journey home.

All four brothers heard the same invitation. Each had an oppor­tunity to be carried home by the elder brother. The first said no, choosing a grass hut over his father's house. The second said no, preferring to analyze the mistakes of his brother rather than admit his own. The third said no, thinking it wiser to make a good impression than an honest confession. And the fourth said yes, choosing gratitude over guilt.

"I'll indulge myself," resolves one son. "I'll compare myself," opts another. "I'll save myself," determines the third.

"I'll entrust myself to you," decides the fourth.

May I ask a vital question? As you read of the brothers, which describes your relationship to God? Have you, like the fourth son, recognized your helplessness to make the journey home alone? Do you take the extended hand of your Father? Are you caught in the grip of his grace?

Or are you like one of the other three sons?

In the Grip of Grace
copyright [Word Publishing, 1996] Max Lucado, p. 1-7.

Too Comfortable or Tied Down?

I heard someone the other day speak of a time when Americans were more mobile. In other words, they migrated to where there was opportunity. If they were unable to find work or make ends meet where they lived, the family would pack up and move toward a better life.

The question is: Are we simply too comfortable with our lifestyle now or are we tied down to our jobs, homes, etc. Why are we not able to move toward opportunity?

I probed a little deeper: Don't we see this same problem within the church today? I'm not referring to individuals and opportunity but rather to churches and opportunities within the Kingdom of God. It's my estimation that we are either too comfortable or we are tied down with our mortgages, budgets, or maybe even our by-laws. It seems as though the church has hindered herself from being able to move toward opportunity.

The Book of Acts is filled with stories of the early church and how God's people always moved toward opportunity. What was the opportunity? It was the opportunity to see churches planted, the Gospel message spread throughout the world, and people saved. It was the opportunity to see the Gentiles saved and Jesus glorified among all people. One person always stands out when I think about being able to move toward opportunity when God opens doors and his name is Philip. Philip (a part of the original 7 chosen to serve the church) had been preaching Christ to the people of Samaria. God was moving in miraculous ways. People were being saved, unclean spirits driven out, and physical healing taking place. In the midst of God's power being manifested, an angel of the Lord spoke to Philip and we can read the account in Chapter 8. "Now an angel of the Lord spoke to Philip saying, 'Arise and go toward the south along the road which goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.' [verse 26]. What did Philip do? According to the Bible, Philip arose and went. This must have been important for God to send him out of Samaria when so much was happening. As Philip went he came across a man of Ethiopia, a eunuch of great authority under Candace the queen of the Ethiopians, who had come to Jerusalem to worship. He was returning home and reading Isaiah. The Spirit then told Philip to go to the chariot. When he went and asked if he needed help understanding what he was reading, God used Philip to lead this Ethiopian eunuch to Christ!

Imagine that you are Philip in today's time, with today's circumstances. God says to you: "Go!" What do you do? I can hear you singing now: "Should I stay or should I go? Should I stay or should I go now?" Fact of the matter is that MOST people in the church today will stay. We cannot leave our jobs because we cannot leave our homes. We cannot take time away from work because we can barely afford what we have already. We cannot risk losing our job since our health insurance comes from our group plan. The fact that we are so tied down to this world hinders us as individuals to fulfill the calling that God has for each of us.

Please understand that I'm not belittling you for having a mortgage. I have one myself. BUT - because of God's calling upon my life I must find a way to go when He says it's time. You may say, "But you are a preacher. God has called you to do this...it doesn't apply to me." All right, let's look at another scenario: Let's say that your Pastor or a preacher friend comes to you and says "I believe God is calling me to go to ________________ because He wants to build up a church in that area. I also sense that He wants me to ask YOU to be a part of this work. I understand the difficulty, I know the sacrifices you will have to make, but these people need Jesus. Will you at least pray and consider going with us in God's work?" What do you say now?

Now - let's take a look at the church as a whole. God's blessings are upon the church and she is growing. Believers are rising up all around the area. Your church has some options to consider. Do we...
#1 Build a bigger building?
#2 Begin having multiple services?
#3 Look at planting some satellite services within the community?
(For those of you wondering, a satellite service would be a preaching/teaching service offered within a home or separate building from your church with the goal of being planted in a certain community)

Depending on the size of your church body you may say "Let's Build!" We may have to borrow the money but God has blessed us. Some may take the alternate route (which probably should be the first one) of doing multiple services. At least that way you aren't tied down to debt or a building and are still able to accommodate the growth of the body. The third option is rarely visited. The church seems to be too careful when it comes to this approach but I challenge you to look at where the growth is coming from. Should our church offer something OUTSIDE the church walls? Would we become so vulnerable as to take a certain segment of the population on Sunday mornings and have meetings in a specific location? Even if it's only 10 minutes down the road? I would say that it is at least worth praying about.

Not only does the attitude of being too comfortable hurt the church but it hinders the expansion of the Kingdom of God. Being tied down to "things" is also a stumbling block to the body of Christ. I wonder how many churches God has called to reach a particular people group outside the U.S. but they feel as though they just "can't" do it? My only response would be, "Is God so small, so powerless, and so constrained by our finances that He wouldn't possibly ask us to do something outside our comfort zone?"

Jesus said the Kingdom of God is like a mustard seed. Although the seed is very small it produces great growth. God uses the mustard seed of a church plant to evangelize an entire community. God uses the mustard seed of our faith to move mountains that would stand in our way. The only problem would be if we are too comfortable in our situation that we aren't willing to step toward opportunity or we are so tied down that we couldn't possibly carry out God's plan.

The best way we can combat these two areas is to simply turn our lives (and our churches) over to the Lordship of Christ. Remember: His Ways are not our ways. His Thoughts are not our thoughts. When we begin to operate in His ways it will not look like anything we have ever seen before. I don't know about you, but that is exciting. That is a life filled with adventure.

Are You Suffering for the Right Things?

Jennifer and I had a very interesting conversation about marriage the other day. In particular, we were discussing various situations where we were able to minister to other couples. Our time of sharing with one another became even more interesting as we began to share together in the Word of God. Now, I want to warn some you out there...you may not like what you hear!

Let me preface the Scripture that I'm about to share with mindsets about marriage. Too many people in this world (including believers) have the wrong attitude toward marriage. They see it as wonderful and great as long as everything is wonderful and great. It's bothersome when there are problems and the problems are often viewed as too great to overcome. I wish we had a nickel for every time a husband or wife would say, "Would you stay if...?"

You may have heard that line yourself. In fact, I just read an interesting blog about porn, adultery, & divorce where the topic question was whether or not viewing porn was the same as adultery and if so - was it grounds for divorce? It's things like this that make a man think! What is it that we are suffering through?

In 1 Peter Chapter 2 you will find the Apostle sharing with the churches the need to respect those in authority. Kings and officials should be shown respect as well as brothers and sisters in the Lord. Peter then goes on to talk about the need for Christian slaves to continue to be respectful of their masters even if it means suffering. Get Ready, here's the real kicker: Chapter 3 verse 1, "In the same way, you wives must accept the authority of your husbands, even those who refuse to accept the Good News." WOW! Peter simply said - just as you would submit to authorities and slaves would submit to masters - wives should accept the authority of their husbands. Of course, he goes on to give instructions to the husbands and their need to honor their wives while being compassionate to her. It really is a wonderful chapter about marriage.

But that is not why I'm sharing all of this. Remember the question I asked earlier? "Would you stay if...?"

1 Peter 3:17, "Remember, it is better to suffer for doing good, if that is what God wants, than to suffer for doing wrong!" Most translations will tell you that it is better to suffer to doing good than doing evil. Oh, I know...that is just too much to ask isn't it? A great majority of people (including Christians) think it is much better to suffer through a divorce than through a marriage! That's right - I said it out LOUD...too many people including those in the church will suffer through a divorce than suffer through counseling, submission, etc.

Why?

The reason why is simple: We think WE DESERVE BETTER and we will do everything in our power to GET WHAT WE WANT!

I'm going to ask you a simple question and then I'm done. What are you willing to suffer over?

Grace - The Power to Change

Dr. James B. Richards has written a wonderful book entitled, "Grace - The Power to Change." Allow me to share some of it with you.

"Few people see sin as the source of their pain. They think their pain is God's conviction; they are wrong. Every pain in our lives is linked to a sinful belief or behavior. Yet we don't see and believe that.

"I recently asked my congregation this simple question. 'When you got saved, did you stop sinning because it was the right thing to do? Because you had to? Or because you wanted to?' Many people only quit sinning because they have to. Those people will never be able to make quality decisions (repentance) about sin.

"We view sin as that long list of fun things that God does not allow us to do. We view serving God as that long list of difficult things we must do. We even have cliches, 'This is good, it must be sin. We had so much fun, it must have been sin.' These statements reflect our attitude toward sin.

"God wants you out of sin for a reason; He does not want you to be destroyed by its power. He does not want it affecting your ability to have a meaningful relationship with Him or those around you.

"Until, however, we see sin as a list of things that bring absolute destruction, we will cling to it and make excuses for it. We will find every reason, theological, emotional or otherwise to justify staying in sin. But the real truth is that we can come out of sin when we want to. NO SIN HAD DOMINION OVER US BECAUSE OF GRACE!

"If you want God's grace you must make a firm decision, confess the Word of God and start taking steps. When the grace of God comes, there will be victory with joy. Victory over sin is not quitting sin but still wanting to give in to it. Real victory comes when we see the utter pain and destruction of sin in our life, make an absolute decision about sin and victory, and trust it to happen because of God's power in us." [pp. 113-115]

AMEN!

I have often said that we look at grace backwards. We see grace as a means of obtaining forgiveness for sin only. Rarely do we look at sin as God's ability within us to overcome sin. Grace is just as available before we sin. Why wait? Why go through the agony of defeat? When faced with temptation declare that God's grace has the power to keep you from falling. I can assure you that it's much more enjoyable than simply needing grace to pick yourself up off the floor.

Go in God's grace and enjoy the victory that He has for you today.

Tis the Season

Seems like a lot of people are fighting some type of cold right now.

I'm currently getting over a sinus infection while Jennifer is doing the same. Last week their were several folks in our church that are sick, getting sick, or overcoming some type of sickness. Tis the season!

It's hard when our normal routines are disrupted by sickness or something else. With that in mind be in prayer for everyone. I know that over the last couple of days my energy level is picking up and I'm feeling a LOT better. Jenn on the other hand is having a rough time.

Allow me to share the words of the Apostle John as he shared them to a dear brother in the Lord: "Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers."

May God grant health and wholeness to each of you today through Christ.

I'll get back to more blogging tomorrow.

Will the Church Grow Up?

Over the past few Sundays I have been fortunate enough to preach about freedom in Christ. I told the church body this past Sunday that if we ever get a firm grasp of grace that we will see revival in the church. It's with that understanding that I ask the simple question: Will the Church Grow Up? Let me explain...

"Accept Christians who are weak in faith, and don't argue with them about what they think is right or wrong. For instance, one person believes it is all right to eat anything. But another believers who has a sensitive conscience will eat only vegetables. Those who think it is all right to eat anything must not look down on those who won't. And those who won't eat certain foods must not condemn those who do, for God has accepted them. Who are you to condemn God's servants? They are responsible to the Lord, so let Him tell them whether they are right or wrong. The Lord's power will help them do as they should...Each person should have a personal conviction about this mater...Christ died and rose again for this very purpose, so that he might be Lord of those who are alive and those who have died. So why do you condemn another Christian? Why do you look down on another Christian? Remember, each of us will stand personally before the judgment seat of God...Yes, each of us will have to give a personal account to God. So don't condemn each other anymore. Decide to live in such a way that you will not put an obstacle in another Christian's path..." Romans 14 (various verses)

In other translations verse 1 teaches us to not argue over disputable matters. These matters are what I like to call the "gray" areas. Areas that the Bible does not give us a clear teaching about. On Sunday I shared a story of a lady who called into Charles Swindoll's radio ministry asking his position on a particular gray area. It is not the policy of his ministry to make public statements about these topics and the lady who called was more than irritated. "What should we believe if 'Chuck' doesn't tell us what to believe?" Sound scary? But that is the way many people live out their faith. The best question to ask is: What does the Lord say about this issue? How is the Holy Spirit leading you to believe in this area? Don't leave it up to the church or another individual to shape your convictions. Spend time with the Lord and He will teach you.

That advice isn't just useful for an individual but the church needs to pay attention to Romans 14. It was written for the church. Too often all the world hears from the church is what not to do. And the message is mixed. Please understand that there is plenty of clear teaching from the Word of God that the church can stand upon. There is clarity when it comes to marriage between one man and one woman, clarity on divorce, clarity on abortion, clarity about salvation, etc. The Word of God provides for the church clear teaching on things that really matter. As far as "gray" areas are concerned when will the church grow up and understand that Christians have the capability within them (we call Him the Holy Spirit) to make decisions on their own? It's actually a part of spiritual maturity. Far too often we have stunted the growth of individuals within the church because they have never been able to make up their own minds. They have never been able to seek the Lord's direction for themselves which leads to immature Christians running around telling all their friends "that's not right the church says so!" even though certain activities may (in and of themselves) be o.k.

I remember serving as a youth pastor trying to help teens grow into adult believers. I would impress upon them the helpfulness of listening to Christian music, reading from translations of the Bible that were easier to understand, etc. All the while serving in a church that thought KJV was the only way to go when it came to the Bible and that Contemporary Christian Music was worldly. Needless to say, it was a constant problem. As far as church "policy" was concerned when it came to how I performed my ministry within the body I respected their position. I taught only out of the KJV. Why? I didn't want to be a stumbling block to those within the church. I didn't fight or argue. But I did try to get these kids in their personal lives to seek the Lord about these matters. Most of them found that Contemporary Christian Music was a help to them in their walk with the Lord and that reading from a different translation of the Bible enabled them to learn more about God's Word.

The point I'm trying to make here is that we have to find a way within the church to focus on essentials and living in harmony when it comes to non-essentials. Unity and uniformity are not the same thing. God has placed each member into the body individually so that we can work collectively for the Kingdom. But the body will not be able to work effectively if we change everyone into the same person. We must allow people to live out their convictions while not imposing our own. While I have been reading the "First Century Diaries" by Gene Edwards I came across an interesting quote. Paul was speaking to a group of young preachers about a day when he believed the Gentile churches would be ministering to those who would flee Jerusalem. He said, "They have not asked you to be circumcised as a part of their beliefs. Don't ask them to be circumcised as a part of yours."

God's Word is clear - love God, love others, and serve both. If we would follow this path then we won't spend so much time bickering over things that don't matter. It's important because all the world is hearing from the church is that we often disagree over matters that don't matter. What the world needs to hear is that we are unified with this one message: Jesus was crucified for the sins of the world. It's not the job of the church to decide whether or not a person should smoke, drink wine with a meal, listen to Christian music only (by the way music isn't Christian/non-Christian - the artists are), read only the King James Version of the Bible, etc. We must allow people to make up their own convictions based upon God's Word and the work of the Holy Spirit. The Bible does condemn certain things: drunkenness, idolatry, lying, stealing, adultery, homosexuality, covetousness, blasphemy, gossip, etc. If you want to be a church that stands against things there is plenty out things out there to get on your soap box about. But the average believer is simply looking for a group of believers that they can congregate with for the purpose of worship and spiritual growth.

Grow Up Church! Stand for the things that matter. Stand for the preaching of the cross. Stand for salvation in Jesus alone. Stand for the protection of marriage and family. Stand for things that guard Christian freedoms and liberty. Stand for the ministry of the Holy Spirit within the body. And while you are standing for these things STOP criticizing believers for their personal convictions! Allow GRACE to rule in the ecclesia and you will be amazed at the freedom within the Body of Christ.

Now I understand that some of you who read this blog may question some of this. I will be glad to answer any of your questions. Post you comments here - you can remain anonymous - and I will share with you. Just understand that I don't want to be the one who shapes your personal convictions. However, if the Lord can use me along with the Holy Spirit to help you live a life of GRACE then I'm all for it!

May you be blessed as you seek Him.

Shining the Light on Grace

"Are you so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are you now being made perfect by the flesh?" Galatians 3:3

I'm not going to go too deep into an explanation of this verse since I am currently preaching through the book of Galatians. However, I hope to shine some light on grace today.

Paul's words to the Galatian church are extremely practical to us today. Since we started in the Spirit are we now made perfect by the flesh? The answer is 100% - NO! But you would be amazed at how many of us live our lives as if God's grace were not enough. Allow me to ask some questions and post what I believe to be the most common answers and we will continue with the discussion.

Is God's grace enough to save you? YES
Is God's grace enough to forgive you of your past? YES
Is God's grace enough to bring you into the family of God? YES
Is God's grace enough to make you a new creation in Christ? YES
Is God's grace enough to overcome your past sinful behavior? YES
Is God's grace enough to KEEP you saved? UHHH? Well...

The point is that I don't know of any believer or church leader today that would say you must do more than confess Christ as you Savior to be saved, forgiven of your sin, adopted into the family of God, made into a new creation, and overcome your past behavior (except maybe the Church of Christ who believe you must be baptized 1st). The majority of "Christians" today understand the basic fundamentals of grace as it pertains to our salvation. They believe that it is by GRACE that you have been saved and that it is the GIFT of God, not of works. Then we come to that last question about STAYING saved and the answers get a little cloudy. It seems to me that several people who profess faith in Christ live under 2 covenants. They live under the covenant of grace when it comes to obtaining salvation but quickly turn to the covenant of law to somehow secure their salvation.

God is not the author of confusion. If you are confused about this subject it's because someone else got to you. Someone else told you that you have to live a certain way in order to stay in right relationship with God. Somewhere along the way you have adopted a theology that says you must do something...accomplish a certain level of spirituality...achieve maturity in order to stay in the good grace of God. Dear friends, if you have to do anything for grace then it's not grace. Grace is God's unmerited favor. In other words: You don't have to do anything to deserve it and in fact you cannot do anything. Grace is grace.

At PBC we believe that since it is God that gives us eternal life through Jesus Christ, the TRUE BELIEVER (one who gives himself to the Lord) is secure in that salvation for eternity. If you have been GENUINELY saved, you cannot "lose" it. Salvation is maintained by the grace and power of God, not by the self-effort of the Christian. It IS the GRACE and keeping POWER of God that gives us this security. If you want to check out some scripture that backs this up: John 10:29, 2 Timothy 1:12, Hebrews 7:25/10:10/10:14, 1 Peter 1:3-5

Some have asked me: "Do you believe in once saved always saved?" My response is this: I don't like the terminology. Most people who use this phrase are looking for a license. Eternal Security is a doctrine while "once saved always saved" is an attitude. At least in our neck of the woods. What you and I need to remember is that God has given us ETERNAL LIFE. It's not temporary life or conditional life...it's eternal life. For those of us who are trying to have a genuine understanding of grace do not view grace as a license to sin but a license to overcome sin. God has given us the assurance that when we become His then He will not lose us.

What about the sin that leads unto death? Well, I'm not sure what that particular sin is...it could be different for everyone. I also don't know that it's a particular sin as much as it is a particular time in our lives. We serve a merciful God. He is so gracious and patient with His people. How often has God given you an opportunity to repent of your sin and turn back to Him? If you are like most you cannot count the times. But the death mentioned above is not a reference to losing eternal life. The sin unto death means that you will cease to exist upon this earth. But why would we ever chance it? If we have been saved would we not want to live in a way that reflects the mercy and grace of Almighty God? This will never be an issue for someone who lives in the grace of God.

We are not made perfect by the flesh! How can anything that is sinful (which the flesh is) ever produce righteousness? It cannot! All the righteousness we need is given to us at salvation. All the forgiveness we need has been provided for us by the cross. God's Spirit dwelling in us gives us the assurance of our salvation. We do not need works of the law. We cannot live up to the standard anyway. Only as we trust in the resurrection power of Christ in our lives can we ever obtain the ability to live a life that reflects Jesus.

Don't be foolish. Learn to trust and rest in the grace of God. Allow His Spirit to work freely in your life and God will take care of the rest. Remember: It's Christ + nothing! The just shall live by faith.

May you be blessed as you rest securely in His grace.

Just for Fun...and then some serious stuff

Just for fun - UNC beat Duke last night!!! North Carolina scored 101 points against the "Blue" Devils. They really are blue considering they gave up an 8 point lead at the half.

On to other things:

There is something that has been on my mind for some time now and I want to share it with you. I have been reading a novel series called "The First Century Diaries" by Gene Edwards. The "diaries" are written from the perspective of those who travelled with Paul on his missionary journeys. Although accurate in the travel details and churches planted...the writer can only speculate about certain events and conversations. What I have enjoyed is reading through the New Testament epistles and treating them as the letters to the early church that they are. It's amazing how that little change in HOW I read has truly impacted my life.

The thing that has been burned into my brain over the course of several weeks is the message of the early church. It was simple, straight-forward, clear, and concise. When you heard the apostles speak, you knew what they were saying. Paul summed it up this way: "Jesus Christ and Him crucified." Sounds simple enough. I wonder what message the church is sending out today?

If you and I were to ask people around us what they believed the message of the church was, how do you think they would respond? Sure...there would be a few folks who have heard the Gospel and know that the church proclaims the death, burial and Resurrection of Jesus. But I also believe that far too many don't know the message. Some think the message of the church is "The World is Coming to an End" while others hear something like "Get yourself right before you get right with God." There would be a few that only hear "You are going to hell in a hand basket" while some hear "God is Love." The point is: The message is mixed and the world continues to go on without the Good News!

Our pulpits need to be filled with men of passion who seek to do nothing else but preach Jesus and Him crucified. We need to drop the prosperity gospel...the name & claim it gospel...the turn your life around gospel...and the best life ever gospel (just to name a few). NO my friends what this world needs to hear is that Jesus Christ came into this world, took on the penalty of humanities sin, and through His death paid for our forgiveness. They need to understand that God is love but they also need to be told how we know..."God demonstrated His love for us in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."

Attention Churches: It's time to get back on message. Nothing else matters but this one truth and the whole world is "dying" to hear it - Jesus Christ & Him crucified!

Serious Thought

Folks...I have to be honest with you about something. I have given some serious thought as to how I should address this issue.

Since the election, I have tried to keep the majority of my posts free of politics. However, as I hear the news unfolding about this "stimulus" package my mind is troubled.

I don't know how much you know about this bill but from what I am hearing it sounds like anything BUT a stimulus package. Before we get into any particulars let me remind you that Japan tried this over and over again. The eventually went through a 12 year recession and it would have been longer had they not have let it work out on its own. The point is that government cannot fix this problem. It was government that got us into this economic mess in the 1st place. Regardless of what our president may have said the other night it will not take more government; it will take less.

The BEST stimulus package to our economy (as always) is serious tax cuts along with spending cuts. If congress would lay off of payroll taxes for about 6 months while cutting out corporate taxes and suspend funding to some of these pork barrel projects they have going...our economy will rebound quicker without leaving a huge debt for our children and grandchildren to pay. History has proven that this is the most effective measure. Which brings to mind this question: Is this bill really about stimulating the economy?

Millions of dollars for STD prevention (I have a sure-fire way to prevent those)
An entire section of the bill devoted to health-care mandates (why is this in a economic bill?)
GREEN legislation (once again...why is this here?)
Infrastructure construction (it only creates short-term jobs)
And this is just a few of the pet "pork" projects.

According to something I hear on Glenn Beck last night - Tom Daschle wrote a book last year where he said that he would encourage the next president to slip health-care reform into a budget bill so that it could not be debated. And here we go...what do we find in this monstrosity? Health-care mandates. Give me a break!

Unfortunately, the only way to try and resolve these problems is by calling out "senators" and "representatives". I use those terms very loosely. I can't recall the last time Va's congressmen actually represented the constituents of the state. They simply represent party lines.

It's sad to say but it looks like we are going to hear that this bill will come out of committee and be passed into law. Who knows what the final figure will be but it doesn't matter. When you figure in interest it gets much (much) bigger. Then they will say we MUST raise taxes so that we can pay for it. They will print more money thus rendering our dollar extremely weak (or should I say weaker?).

As a believer I'm praying that God will raise up men and women who will stand for what is right for America. The "Change" we can believe in is NOT in Washington...no, it's with the people of this country who are willing make change happen. We need a shake-up of our political process. We need people to quit being Democrats/Republicans and start being Americans again. Socialism hasn't worked in any country and there is no reason to believe that it will work in America.

We must pray.

Yes...I am involved!

Don't have long to chat today. I will be picking my kids up from school very soon. We have Parent/Teacher Conferences today.

I actually like this part of the public school system. It's not a mandatory thing but it does promote Parents & Teachers getting together to discuss the progression of children during the school year. I don't know if this is something that happens all across our nation but as an involved parent I like to hear directly from the teacher if there are any problems in the classroom, good news concerning my child's progression, or areas where we can help out.

I don't remember these things when I was growing up. I'm sure the option was available...and to be fair to my parents they may have went without me...but alas I don't remember. Then again, as far as elementary school went, I was a good student. It wasn't until middle school that I decided to "take my chances" with grades.

I hope you all have a great week and I look forward to sharing with you this week. I have some great thoughts on what to share and hope to encourage you in your walk with Christ.

What if YOU were Published?

Job 19:23, "Oh, that my words were written! Oh, that they were inscribed in a book!"

Interesting words considering that they were written and that Job's words were inscribed in a book. God, in His providence, decided that Job's story was worth telling. Have you ever thought, "What if MY LIFE was published?"

If you were published would you ask that certain parts of your story were deleted? Are there things in your life that you wouldn't want to share? There is no doubt in my mind that each of us have certain periods of life that we would love to erase...conversations that shouldn't have happened...attitudes that need to be changed...actions that we would love to keep in the dark. The truth is that each of our lives tell a story whether or not someone chooses to write it down. Yes, our lives are being etched into the minds and memories of those around us.

You may have heard someone say that our life here on earth is just a rehearsal. This phrase usually comes from someone who believes in life after death (eternal life in heaven). If you and I take that same mindset then it's clear that we sure would like some do-overs. Could I redo Act 13 scene 75? How about Act 17 scene 93? At every stage of life I have had many mistakes and would love to redo those scenes and erase from my memory (as well as those involved) all the bad I have done. However, we know that life doesn't allow us to erase, cut and paste. We are forced to live with our consequences and cannot alter what has already taken place.

The only thing you and I CAN do is to ensure that the ending is right. God, in His mercy, has afforded us the opportunity to be forgiven of all the wrong we have done. It may not erase such scenes from our memory but as far as God is concerned those things never happened. In His grace He has promised that though our sins be as scarlet they shall be white as snow. God is the only one with the delete button. And when He deletes our sin there is no rummaging around in the recycle bin - with God it's gone forever.

Maybe if we understood the whole picture...that our life is being published for those around us, then maybe we would live differently. Maybe we would find a way to show love instead of frustration. Maybe our children would experience a different home life, our parents experience a grateful child, our friends a more controlled individual, or our spouses true and unconditional love. We shouldn't wait for our funerals or once our life has passed and hope that the words of friends and the preacher will be enough. NO...now is the time to life as though people are watching. And hopefully in the end they will see a person who lived with an uncompromising love for God and an unconditional love for those around.

Job's life and words were written for our understanding. And though we may never be placed in a book we know that all things are recorded. The Bible says that every idle word a man speaks that he will give an account for it on the day of judgement. Can you imagine what the playback will sound like? What shame will I feel? What pain will I experience? I thank God that today I stand forgiven for all I have done. What would my life look like if it weren't for the cross? Just imagine if Jesus had not come and died for our sin. That's a life that I'm glad I will never know.

Take some time today and thank God that your life story has been altered by the cross. If you have never accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior - today is the day of salvation. Don't allow another day of your life to be recorded without His forgiveness and the power of His Spirit to direct in all you say and do. At least in the end people can say, "He wasn't perfect, but what God has done in his life is remarkable."

In the words of Paul, "...God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ..." Galatians 6:14.

I finally watched it

Several months ago I shared some information about the then upcoming release of the movie Fireproof. Since we didn't have any movie theaters close by that was showing the film I had to wait for the DVD to be released. Last night, at home with my wife and kids, I finally watched it.

First off I want to say "Job well done." Sherwood Baptist Church and its ministry has released another remarkable movie. If you are a fan of Flywheel or Facing the Giants, then you will love this movie. I will tell you that you shouldn't expect the same emotions simply because you are dealing with a different topic. However, if you are struggling in marriage - or have ever struggled in marriage - I believe that you will find yourself in this couple.

Having Kirk Cameron as a part of the cast definitely doesn't hurt the movie. Usually Sherwood uses their own congregation for actors and for the most part that is still true of this movie. You will see some of the same faces on the screen but the couple portrayed gives you some freshness.

The Kendrick brothers (creators of Flywheel, Facing the Giants, & Fireproof) have hit another one out of the park. These guys attack various issues with each movie and are able to do so with clarity, humanity, and humor. Maybe that is why we find ourselves in these movies...considering that these guys have been through or fleshed out some of the topics they are willing to tackle. From the common everyday fighting, selfishness, the temptation of adultery/pornography...you name it - they deal with it. And with that willingness they have elevated the platform of the church to speak out with authority on various issues.

If you haven't watched it - rent or buy it. It would be a wonderful collection for your own DVD Library. I will also encourage every couple to take the "Love Dare" that is presented in this movie as it will enhance your relationship with your spouse. I'm sure that you will find Fireproof to be challenging and encouraging in your own marriage and that is why I recommend it to everyone.

Don't be one of those people who sit around and complain that there are never any good movies that come out. Sherwood Baptist Church is doing all they can to produce good, family oriented films that can be watched by every member of the household. Support their ministry and pray that God will continue to provide the means necessary to carry out this ministry to its fullness.

I hope you all have a great day in the Lord. Be Blessed.

After Super Bowl, they remain champions

An article from Baptist Press:

TAMPA, Fla. (BP)--Two champions were crowned Sunday night in Tampa. The Pittsburgh Steelers became the most successful team of the Super Bowl era, winning their record sixth title with a last-minute, come-from-behind 27-23 win over the Arizona Cardinals.

But faith-filled players from both teams emerged as champions regardless of Sunday's outcome, stating that their eternal perspective remains as strong as ever.

"My faith is everything," a devastated Arizona quarterback Kurt Warner said in a quiet post-game interview room. "I'm just so proud of these guys on the team and what we accomplished together.

"We had a chance to win the world championship and we were two minutes away," Warner said.

Pittsburgh quarterback Ben Roethlisberger lofted a pass to receiver Santonio Holmes in the corner of the end zone with 35 second left in the game to cap a 78-yard drive for the victory in Super Bowl XLIII, their second in four years.

It came just two minutes after Warner had led a 64-yard drive for the first Arizona lead, capped by a touchdown pass to receiver Larry Fitzgerald.

Pittsburgh defensive end Travis Kirschke, who had shared his faith during Tuesday's media day, said the last-second win may have tested his nerves, but not his perspective.

"I never stopped believing," he said late Sunday, walking the confetti-strewn field with his wife and son. "Our God can do big things and I'm grateful for this chance."

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin, the youngest coach ever to win a Super Bowl, described himself as "the most blessed coach to work with this staff and these players ... to see what these guys are willing to do for one another."

Steelers' tight end Health Miller said he was grateful for the win in order to have a larger platform to share his faith in the future.

"I think God has really blessed this team," Miller said. "We've been together all year long and really have some solid guys. I'm glad He gets the glory."

Moments before kickoff in the sold-out Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Warner was presented with the Walter Payton Man of the Year for his work with a number of faith-based charities, including his First Things First Foundation which has raised more than $1.5 million dollars to help others.

"I'm humbled the Lord has given me such an amazing life to impact others," Warner said. "Of all the awards given to NFL athletes, the Walter Payton Man of the Year is the one that stands out over the rest because of what it represents.

"When people look back at my career, I want them to see a fierce competitor, but more importantly, I want to be remembered for my consistency of character and the legacy I hope to leave through my First Things First Foundation."

At age 37, Warner is a free agent and has given thought to retirement next season. After the game, he said he wouldn't be making a decision until he had time to reflect on the year and talk to his wife and family.

Whatever career decision he makes, it would be based on an eternal standard, Warner said.

"I want to be excellent every time I step on the field. I want to be excellent in practice," he said. "But I want to be excellent when I go home to my wife and kids as well."
- Art Stricklin

SNOW!!!

Another Snow Day here in Southwest VA. The kids are out of school so I won't be spending a lot of time on the computer.

I have been reflecting on the sermon that I preached this past Sunday. I was sharing with our church body the uniqueness of the early fellowships that were started by Paul. Imagine planting a church in areas where there was no Jewish influence. Oh, how free the believers were. They were as pure in their faith as the fresh fallen snow that I witnessed last night.

There was no legalism...they had no law.
There was no religion...they had to live in relationship.
There was no schism in the body...each had learned to live depending upon one another.

Though I am grateful for the advances we have seen in the Kingdom of God, we have much to learn from the 1st believers. The challenge for the church of today is to re-learn the simplicity of our faith. It's not about budgets, buildings, or buses...it's about a love for God and our brothers/sisters in Christ.

We should take time this week and ask God to strip away all the dross from our thinking. All we really need for the church to be "successful" is a love for Him and our fellow man.

Have a great day & while you are at it...Enjoy the snow.

Super Bowl Champs

Congratulations to the Pittsburgh Steelers for their historic win on Sunday. This Super Bowl victory gives them a NFL best 6 Lombardi Trophies. In a game that went down to the wire it quickly became one of the greatest in Super Bowl history.

Go Steelers!