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Divine Healing Is Provided in the Atonement

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The ministry of the priests under the Law foreshadowed the ministry of the great High
Priest, Jesus Christ, who is able “to sympathize with our weaknesses (astheneia,
weakness, sickness, disease, timidity, infirmity)” (Hebrews 4:14,15). The Old Testament
priests, through the sprinkling of the blood of the sacrifices, made atonement for the sins
of the people.

An examination of the concept of atonement in the Bible shows that in most cases it
refers to a ransom price paid for redemption and restoration, which points to the
redemption through Christ accomplished by the shedding of His blood in our behalf. The
apostle Paul described it this way: “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement,
through faith in his blood” (Romans 3:25).

The phrase, “sacrifice of atonement,” translates the Greek hilastērion, which can be also
translated expiation, propitiation, atonement, or mercy seat. Leviticus 16 records God’s
expectations for Israel’s Day of Atonement and the ministry of the high priest sprinkling
the blood of a sin offering on the atonement cover (the solid gold lid on top of the ark of
the covenant). The ark contained the stone tablets of the Law, which the people had
broken. The broken Law called for judgment and death. But when the blood of a spotless
lamb was sprinkled, prophetically anticipating the sinless life of Christ, God saw that
sinless life instead of the broken Law and could give mercy and blessing.

The primary purpose of the atonement was cleansing from sin (Leviticus 16:30). It is also
clear, however, that atonement brought release from the penalty and consequences of sin
in order to bring restoration to God’s blessing and favor. When the people of Israel
complained after the judgment that followed the rebellion of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram,
God sent a plague on the Israelites. Moses sent Aaron out into the midst of the
congregation, where he made atonement for them, and the plague was stopped (Numbers
16:47,48). The Law of Moses required that when the men of Israel were numbered, they
were each to give a half shekel atonement offering for their redemption and to prevent a
plague from coming upon them (Exodus 30:11–16). Atonement thus provided cleansing
from sin and its consequences, including sickness and disease.

The Bible makes it clear that people could not pay the price for their redemption, so God
out of His love and for the glory of His own name provided the ultimate atonement
(Romans 3:25; see also Psalms 65:3; 78:38; 79:9; Romans 3:21–28). All this was
accomplished through Christ at Calvary (John 3:14–16). There He made a full atonement
for the whole person. The New Testament speaks of this as redemption, which has
essentially the same meaning as atonement. Through Christ we have received redemption
and the forgiveness of sins (Romans 3:24; Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 1:14; Hebrews
9:15).

Source: A/G Position Papers

If our hope in Jesus is only for this life, we are the most pitiful and miserable of all men

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"If our hope in Jesus is only for this life we are of all people most to be pitied." 1 Corinthians 15:19
Jesus’ resurrection from the dead is the most important element of our faith. Everything rises and everything falls with or without it. Dismantle it, and Christianity as we know it comes crumbling down. That indeed is not an easy task, however. Christianity has survived all sorts of scrutiny and has stood the test of time.

Unfortunately, some Christians are too heavenly minded that they are of no earthly good. But tragically, some are too attached to their earthly goods that they have lost sight of this crucial truth – The Resurrection!

At this time of the year, it will do us some good to shine some light on this life changing event. Hopefully, we can refresh our minds and translate the experience into a lifestyle that goes on throughout the year. So, join me today and lets look at His resurrection and what it mean.

“If there is no resurrection from the dead” how does that affect our faith and claims?

  • Our Christ Himself has not been raised
  • Our hope of eternal life is useless
  • Our preaching is futile
  • Our faith is empty
  • Our witness is false
  • Our faith is useless
  • Our sins have not been forgiven
  • Our reunion with loved ones will never happen.
If “Christ resurrection from the dead is true, what evidence is there to support it?
  • The empty tomb
  • Jesus’ post resurrection appearances to his disciples
  • The many eyewitness reports
  • The Man himself: who he was, what he taught, miracles he performed, prophesies he fulfilled
  • The changed lives of those who believed in him
What does”Christ resurrection from the dead guarantees?”
  • It guarantees our bodily resurrection from the dead
  • It makes the claims of the Christian faith ever more important
  • It demonstrates the power of God over sin, satan and death
  • It gives us the courage and power to preach the gospel and tell the world about this eternal hope
  • It gives us great joy that we will see our departed loved ones again
  • It brings assurance that we will see him face to face
  • And with Him live for ever and ever
This Easter, spark a fire and fan into flames each day for the rest of your life. Make His resurrection the most essential truth that drives your faith. Celebrate it, defend it, shout it from your rooftops. Happy EASTER everyone.

I AM: 7 Incredible Claims of Jesus

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When we look at the life of Jesus, it is hard not to notice his claims. The Pharisee mocked him when he called himself  “light of the world.” His followers left him when he called himself “bread of life.” Crowds denounced him when he talked about himself as the “Good Shepherd.” And when he said, “I am the resurrection and the life” – it cost him his life.

When Jews heard those two verbs I am – I am (as translated from the Hebrew), they knew exactly what Jesus meant. It was something more than a metaphor – He was claiming deity. We understand from Exodus 3:14 that this is the same title God the father gave himself.

These claims are so powerful and bold that they arrest your attention and cause you to think.

I am the Bread of Life

John 6:35: Jesus said to them, I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall never hunger, whoever believes in me shall never thirst.

  • Manna, the bread that comes from above – fill with the necessary nutrients to sustain life
  • Bread of Life – center of everyday life in ancient Israel

In essence, Jesus is claiming that everything else one can try to find sustenance and satisfaction will leave him empty and wanting. Bread in those days was the center of their lives. They had to have it for their sustenance. Jesus said, I am the only one who can fully satisfy and sustain you.

I Am the Light of the World

John 8:12: Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

  • Psalm 27:1 – the Lord is the Light of my salvation
  • Psalm 119:105 – Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path
  • Isaiah 9 – the people walking in darkness have seen a light

The Jewish people understood this phrase very well. They understood that when Israel traveled at night, God was with them in a pillar of fire. They understood that God’s word is lamp unto their feet, light unto their path. That Messiah, when he comes will shine in dark places.

I am the Door

John 10:9: I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture.

  • a shepherd leads his sheep out into the fields to look for food and water
  • a shepherd will build a makeshift pen for the sheep on a hill
  • the shepherd, in this instance, does not build a gate or door to the pen
  • but he lays down at door or gate of this makeshift pen
  • no sheep could enter without he permission

It is in light of this that Jesus speaks. I am the gate. No one can go to the father but by me. No one can go to heaven except through me. No one can enter into eternal life except through me. This shepherd is the only one who grants permission to enter.

I am the Good Shepherd

John 10:11: I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.

  • Psalm 23 – the Lord is my Shepherd – he provides everything I need
  • Ezekiel 34 – false shepherds only take care of themselves – not God

There is one phrase that I repeat all the time. “God is good – all the time – God is good!” This is not just a cute phrase. It is a theologically profound phrase. The bible says in Psalm 119 that “God is good and everything he does is good.” It is time to shift your perception about him. He is good all the time.

I am the Resurrection and the Life

John 11:25:  am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, 26 and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die.

  • fear of death, and the basic dilemma of death, is a constant pain in man’s heart
  • For a long time, death has ruled over men like a tyrant
  • until Jesus showed up at Lazarus’ tomb and walked out of his tomb three days after his death

This changes everything. Think about the boldness of this claim. “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. This is cause to look at Jesus closer. I don’t know of anyone else in human history, who has made such a claim. Do you believe this? I do. I believe that He is the resurrection and the life.

I am the Way the Truth and the Life

John 14:6: I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

  • the way that leads so the Father
  • the Truth that teaches the knowledge of God, and directs in the way
  •  the Life that animates all those who seek and serve him

I am sure you have heard, “All roads lead to God if we are sincere in seeking Him,” but how true is that? Not true at all. People want to know what gives Christians the courage to make such claims. Well, they are Jesus’ claims. We believe him because of his extraordinary life. Never has there been any other like Him. His enemies as well as friends recognized his perfect life. Believers and unbelievers alike are unanimous in the verdict they pass on the life of Jesus. ‘Truly this was a righteous Man.’

I am the Vine

John 15:1-8: I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.

  • The vine is a “spreading plant, and Christ will be known as salvation to the ends of the earth”
  •  He is the true vine, as truth is opposed to pretense and counterfeit
  • Psalm 104:15 – says that anyone attached to the vine will find “wine which makes man’s heart glad, So that he may make his face glisten with oil, And food which sustains man’s heart.”

The Source of all spiritual life and fruitfulness is in the Jesus. The source of everything good and just and holy is in Him. In Him we live and move and have our being. He is a life-giving source. A fount of every blessing and a constant stream never-ceasing.

Conclusion:

Jesus is either God, and we should follow him, or a liar that cannot be trusted. Nobody wants to follow a liar. You will agree, even if you are not a Christian, that Jesus is no liar – he was a holy man. The purpose of John’s Gospel is that we will understand that Jesus is God. Jesus was not just a great man or a great prophet. Jesus is God. This is important because our salvation depends on that very fact.

10 unforgettable Promises from God’s Word

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Bruised Head & Bruised Heel

“I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel.” Genesis 3:15
This promise is fulfilled in the incarnation and through the crucifixion of Jesus. In God’s infinite mercy our redemption is purchased.

Father of Nations, Father of faith

“Behold, my covenant is with you, and you shall be the father of a multitude of nations. No longer shall your name be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham, for I have made you the father of a multitude of nations. I will make you exceedingly fruitful, and I will make you into nations, and kings shall come from you. And I will establish my covenant between me and you and your offspring after you throughout their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and to your offspring after you. And I will give to you and to your offspring after you the land of your sojourning, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession, and I will be their God.” Genesis 17:4-6
Through Abraham , we are justified by faith and not the law. By this same faith, the righteous will live and bring pleasure to God.

Son of David

“When your days are fulfilled and you lie down with your fathers, I will raise up your offspring after you, who shall come from your body, and I will establish his kingdom. He shall build a house for my name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. I will be to him a father, and he shall be to me a son. When he commits iniquity, I will discipline him with the rod of men, with the stripes of the sons of men, but my steadfast love will not depart from him, as I took it from Saul, whom I put away from before you. And your house and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before me. Your throne shall be established forever.'” 2 Samuel 7:12-16.
This promise remains true with Jesus, in whom this promise finds its fulfillment. The Son of David is permanently seated on the throne. And His kingdom shall never come to an end.

I will be with you

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.” Isaiah 43:2
No one should do life alone. God has always wanted to walk in closed friendship and fellowship with man. His promise remains true – he is a friend that sticks closer in every stage of life.

Clean Slate

“The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. “The LORD is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him.”  Lamentations 3:22-23
How many of us blow it all the time. We are all prune to wander (feel me?) What God promises is a clean slate when we slip, mistake, and drift.

He loves us oh – How He loves us

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. John 3:16-18
The love of God is rich and pure, marvelous, measureless. It is persistent and everlasting. It comes after us even in our rebellion, indifference and resistance. This love never fails.

I will built my Church

“And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” Matthew 16:18-19
A few verses earlier, Peter had made a powerful confession. It was on that confession and the power of the truth he confessed that Jesus promised to build his church. He hasn’t failed.

Spirit break out

“‘And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams; even on my male servants and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit, and they shall prophesy. And I will show wonders in the heavens above and signs on the earth below, blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke; the sun shall be turned to darkness and the moon to blood, before the day of the Lord comes, the great and magnificent day. And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.’ Acts 2:17-21
When we read the book of Acts, we see the Holy Spirit at work in a powerful way. In these last days, God has promised to pour out his Spirit upon all flesh, with times of refreshing.

Chosen before the foundation of the world

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be Holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ.” Ephesians 3:2-10
In his infinite grace, he has lavished his love and affection upon us. It is nice to know that from the creation of the world, even up to the time he hung upon the cross – he had me on his mind.

Booked for Life

“The one who conquers will be clothed thus in white garments, and I will never blot his name out of the book of life. I will confess his name before my Father and before his angels.” Revelation 3:5
God will do a roll call one of these days. He will open his book and start calling names. We will hear our names if we remain in Him, and in his love. Those who conquer will enter into his rest. 

 

 

The Right Way to Overcome Temptation

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Temptation is common to all men

The Bible tell us that temptation is common to all men. We should never thing it strange when tempted. We should never think that  our struggle to resist temptation is unique to us alone. Jesus urged his disciples when He walked the face of the earth to develop a life of watching and praying so that they wouldn’t fall into temptation. In other places in the Bible, it says, that sin is constantly knocking at our door, and Satan is like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. We must do everything to resist temptation and sin by drawing near to God.

How does one overcome temptation?

James give us a strategy in his book chapter 1. Let’s take a look at what he teaches.
“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. Let no one say when tempted, “I am being tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death. Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.” James 1:12-17

James gives us 6 knockout punches in this epic battle to overcome temptation:

Anticipate it – “when tempted” James 1:13

It is not a matter of if, but a matter of when you will face temptation. It is wise to expect. You are more likely to overcome, if you are ready to face it.

  • Matthew 4: Like Jesus, we must always meditate on upon the word and use the word to fight temptation
  • Matthew 26:41 encourages us to watch and to pray so that we do not fall into temptation
  • Matthew 18:7-9 also tells us to chop off or get rid of everything that causes us to sin
  • Hebrews 2:18 reminds us that by grace, Jesus will help us when tempted, so to look to Him

Complicate it not –  “no one should say” James 1:13, 16

First of all, temptation in and of itself is not sin. It only becomes sin when it’s acted upon. It is also not from God. God cannot be tempted with evil and He himself does not tempt anyone. Temptations come from two sources:

  • James 1:14 says, each person is tempted when lured away and enticed by his own desires. But,
  • 1 Corinthians 7:5 also says, that temptations come from Satan, the devil

Activate it not “when the desire is conceived” James 1:15

As long as temptation remains a temptation, it is not sin. You want to resist it and get rid of it. You do not want to activate it. When temptation is acted upon, it comes alive. The word conceive means “to cause to begin.” It is speaking about becoming pregnant. What you did when you gave into that temptation is you allow yourself to become pregnant with sin.

  • desire conceived give birth to sin
  • when sin is fully grown, it gives birth to death.

Whatever you do with temptation, don’t activate it. Somebody once you can let the birds fly over your head, but you should never allow it to build a nest in your hair.

Replace it – “every good and perfect gift comes from above” James 1:16

At the heart of a temptation is a lie. A lie about the character and the goodness of God. The lie is to deceive you. We’ve seen this before. We’ve seen it play out in the Genesis account in Satan’s temptation of Adam and Eve.

  • “Did God really say?”
  • “You will surely not die”
  • “Your eyes will be open”
  • “You will be like God”
  • “You will know good and evil”

What Adam and Eve did not do, was to replace that lie with truth. Fast forward to the second Adam. Three time Jesus uses the phrase -“it is written.” What he did was replace the lie or half truth with the truth, the word, the goodness of God. It is important to replace the lie with the truth. Look beyond the deception and invoke the truth. It also means actively:

  •  laying aside every weight and sin which clings so closely – Hebrews 12:1
  •  putting off the old self of deceitful desires and putting on a new self – Ephesians 4:22
  •  renewing our mind with the word of God – Romans 12:2

aftereffects of it – “when fully grown brings forth death” James 1:15

At the heart of every temptation, no matter how good it looks, sounds, feels, is a seed of death, shame, and bondage.

  • 1 Timothy 6::9 tells that falling into sin through temptation plunges people into ruin and destruction
  • Hebrews 11:25 talks about the fleeting pleasures of sin. It looks good at first, but in the end it stings and bites

The late Steve Hill used to say “Sin will always take you farther than you wanted to go, keep you longer that you wanted to stay, and cost you more that you intended to pay.” So, it is important to see what you are getting into, before you take that step into it.

Dominate it – “blessed is the man who remains steadfast” James 1:12

Tap into His divine power

His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness… 2 Peter 1:3

 Tap into His divine promises

By which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises… 2 Peter 1:4

Get on the offensive and supplement your faith with

Virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness,  brotherly affection,  love. 2 Pet. 1:5 – 7

The result

If these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from falling, being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ… 2 Peter 1:8, 9

Three Words – offensive, offensive, offensive!

This One Thing

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Men may be divided into two classes—those who have a ‘one thing’ and those who have no ‘one thing’ to do; those with aim, and those without aim in their lives… The aim in life is what the backbone is to the body: without it we are invertebrate.” How frightening it would be to be “invertebrate”—to be spineless, weak, and weak-willed—especially in the Christian life! But thanks be to God for these cherished-yet-instructive verses about the process whereby you and I may know and accomplish our “one thing”—attaining the great prize of the Christian race. (Elizabeth George, experiencing God’s peace. p. 95). Source.

Jesus had a one thing

“Now is my soul troubled. And what shall I say? ‘Father, save me from this hour’? But for this purpose I have come to this hour. (John 12:27 ESV)

Paul had a one thing

“Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead. I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:13 ESV)

Mary had a one thing

But one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”
(Luke 10:42 ESV)

David had a one thing

“One thing have I asked of the Lord, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to inquire in his temple.”
Psalm 27:4

The Rich Young Ruler lack the one thing

“And Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “You lack one thing: go, sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.”
(Mark 10:21 ESV)

Esther had a one thing

“For time, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”
(Esther 4:14 ESV)

John the Baptist had a one thing

“I myself did not know him, but for this purpose I came
baptizing with water, that he might be revealed to Israel.”
(John 1:31 ESV)

Everybody has a one thing different from the thing of another

“Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all possess gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret?
(1 Corinthians 12:27-30 ESV)

Dead Poets Society illustrates “this one thing” with “One Verse” What will it be?

What is your one thing?

What have you done to discover it?

What have you done to develop it?

How are you aiming your life to use your one thing to its fullest?

There is still hope for the Averaged

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My aim in this post is not to encourage you to settle for average. I believe we should all be a little curious and adventurous. We should have a very healthy dose of ambition, a competitive spirit and the desire to perfect the gifts and talents we’ve all been given.

However, we ought to “not to think of ourselves more highly than we ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.”

In other words

  • Not many of us our going to run like Usain Bolt – the fastest person ever.
  • Not many of us will agree to downsize our fighting men like Gideon did and still defeat mighty armies with a small military force.
  • Not many of us will be the next King Solomon, the wisest man.
  • Not many of us are going to become billionaires like the likes of Buffet, Gates and Zuckerberg.
  • The fact is, not many of us will be as successful and discerning as others are.

So, if you fall short in your efforts to do better and pursue excellence in what we do – there is still hope, and that hope comes by the way you read Ecclesiastes 9:11.

“I observed this on the earth: the race is not always won by the swiftest, the battle is not always won by the strongest; prosperity does not always belong to those who are the wisest, wealth does not always belong to those who are the most discerning, nor does success always come to those with the most knowledge – for time and chance may overcome them all.” Ecclesiastes 9:11 NET

  • The race is not ALWAYS
  • The battle is not ALWAYS
  • Prosperity is not ALWAYS
  • Wealth does not ALWAYS
  • Success is not ALWAYS

But to all those whom God has given “time and chance.”

That one word “always” opens up a whole new possibility for the averaged. What are these possibilities?

1. Time
2. Chance
Let’s unpack these two.

Time

 “Opportunity of a lifetime must be ceased in the lifetime of the opportunity.” Leonard Ravenhill

In the bible, the word time “refers to an uncertain time or destined time. The word also refers to appointed time. Eccl 3:9-15 teaches God’s sovereignty over the appointed time-table of human events. This highlights the limitations of human wisdom and human ability, as 9:11 stresses.” (NET Notes)

Time allows us to take comfort in verses like Psalm 31:15 which says, My times are in the Lord’s hands and in Ecclesiastes 3:11, he makes all things beautiful in his own time. Some times it is going out sowing with tears until we come back with shouts of joy carrying the harvest (Psalm 126:5, 6). Other times it’s about not growing weary of doing good, for in due season (time) we will reap, if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9).

The race is not always to the swift, the smart, the gifted, the well-connected and well positioned. What that means is that they are not the only ones destined to win. In God’s appointed time, with patience and good timing, the God who has my times in his hands, not only can, but is going to lean in my direction with enough grace to take me across the finish line, knock out my Goliath, and help me succeed at what I do.

Chance

“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take” Napoleon Hill

The word chance is a little frown upon in many Christian circles and rightly so. With God there is nothing left to chance. Everything on purpose. God can even take the good, the bad and the ugly and used them for good.

This word could also be understood as innocence of action, occurrence, happening, at random. Look at 1 Kings 22:34:
“But a certain man drew his bow at random Hebrew in his innocence” and struck the king of Israel between the scale armor and the breastplate…”

Some times it’s that song that barely made it on the album that goes to the top of the charts. It is that post you least expected to do well that gets the most liked, most shared, most commented on. It is that opportunity we accidentally walked into, that random decision we made that propels us to top.

2 Kings 13 tells the story of King Joash, king of Israel. He came to seek counsel and prayer from Elisha after the Syrian army declared war against Israel. Upon interceding for the king, the prophet instruct him to take arrows and shoot as many as he could. This would be sign showing to what extend he will destroy this army.

The king took three arrows and shot them into the ground and stopped. The prophet was furious with the king and proceeded to tell him that his victory over his enemy will be partial. If the king had shot 5 or more arrows it would secured a perfect and complete victory over his enemies.

The point here is this:

Don’t stop trying, shooting, or doing your best. Don’t stop at just three shots, keep at it, because you never know which one will take you to the top.

Joy is strength: How can I Increase it?

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The joy of The Lord is my strength. Neh. 8:10.

What is joy?

 
Webster’s Dictionary defines joy as “a feelings of great happiness” but there is something much richer and deeper from God’s word about the word. This is because joy is more of an “elevated and spiritual kind.”
Joy is of God 
“For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” Romans 14:17
God is our source of joy.  He doesn’t only possess joy, he spreads it abroad. When he releases his joy in us, it moves like the working of his mighty power. A lot of people think that God is this angry, grumpy, always in a bad mood father. Quite frankly, it wouldn’t be a stretch to equate God to a “Happy God.” A few bible interpretors see the word “blessed” in 1 Timothy 1:11 as speaking of a cheerful and delightful God.
Joy is God’s will 
But now I am coming to you, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have my joy fulfilled in themselves. John 17:13. It is his will for us to serve with joy, have joy in difficult times and grow in joy.
Joy comes bursting out of salvation
Psalm 126:1-3: “When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream. Then our mouth were filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then they said among the nations, “The LORD has done great things for them.” The LORD has done great things for us; we are glad.” Joy is a gift from God through salvation.
Joy comes from being with Him
“In his presence there is fullness of joy; at his right hand are pleasures forevermore.” Ps. 16:11. When we make time, to pray, worship and meditate on God’s word, we experience fullness of joy.
Joy is the fruit of God’s Spirit living inside us
“Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith – the salvation of your souls. 1 Peter 1:8-9. It’s a fruit that needs cultivating.

Joy is not happiness 

2 Corinthians 7:14.

“I have confidence in you; I take great pride on your behalf. I am filled with encouragement; I am overflowing with joy in the midst of all our suffering.”

The word happy comes from the same word as happen. When things are going great, we are happy. Joy, however, no matter what’s happening – you still have it.

If the joy of The Lord is my strength, than the more joy I have the more strength I get. So how can I increase my joy so that I may become stronger?

By delight, not discipline
“The secret to finding joy in spiritual disciplines is focusing not on what we do, but on the one for whom we do it.” Mark J. Galli

By obedience, not sacrifice  

“Holy joy will be the oil to the wheels of our obedience.” Matthew Henry
By Resting, not striving
“Come to me, cease from work, burdens will fly away, walk with me, learn the unforced rhythm of grace.” Brian Doerksen
By living for His glory, not satisfaction 
“God is most glorified in you, when you are most satisfied in Him.” John Piper
By optimism, not pessimism 
“A person who has the joy of The Lord in this life is strong in the battles of life.” Stephen J Cole
By waiting, not running
“It’s not in trying but in trusting, not in running but in resting, not in wondering but in praying that we find the strength of The Lord.” Lionel Harris
By a healthy diet, not junk food
“Your words were found and I ate them, and your word was to me joy and rejoicing of my heart.” Jeremiah the Prophet
By patient endurance, not a spirit of fainting
“Count it all joy my brothers when you meet trials of various kinds. The testing of your faith produces steadfastness that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” James the Apostle
By putting others first, not one-self
“Who is the happiest of men? He who values the merits of others, and in their pleasure takes joy, even as though they were his own” Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
By embracing propitiation, not your own perfection 
“It is hard work to make one-self look good before God. It’s a killjoy to attract his attention by doing good works. You will always leave feeling empty.” Max Hilton
By celebrating small things and not despising them
In the sweetness of friendship let there be laughter and sharing of pleasures. For in the dew of little things the heart finds its morning and is refreshed.” Khalil Gibran
By knowing what it means to have lack, not only what it means to have much
“I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Paul the Apostle
By being reasonable, not anxious
“Rejoice in the Lord always. In prayer, supplication, with thanksgiving seek God. His peace will guard your heart.” Paul the Apostle.
By keeping hope alive, longing for him, offering a sacrifice of praise, remember His goodness, not throwing a pity party
“As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you… When can I go and meet with God? Why are you downcast, O my soul? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him and remember you from the land of the Jordan.” The Sons of Korah

Angus Dei

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Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.
John 1:29

Lord in your mercy save this lost and dying world from sin

Lord in my weakness help me to find the grace I need to please you

Lord in your goodness, raise up a banner of righteousness over me

 

In Jesus’ name… Amen!

The Culture of Pastoral Notoriety

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Part 2 in the series – “The Pulpit and The Pew”

The number one thing rocking the pulpit with scandal after scandal in America, is the rock star status of celebrity pastors. From heresy to immorality, worldliness to apostasy, consumerism to greed, the culture of celebrity pastors is bringing the western church to its knees. It doesn’t matter if you pastor a mega church or a small church in your neck of the woods. Nor does it matter if you’ve written a book, air a television program of your own or have a just a few followers and fans. You can fall into the trap of desiring the status of “the next big thing” no matter where and who you are.

Who is a celebrity pastor?

The common mistake is to select big names, men or women whom God has apparently raised up as voices to this generation and brand them with a negative connotation. Another mistake is to pick on easy targets like those incredibly gifted to speak and lead, or those with a million plus Twitter followers or Facebook fans. This is not my angle here in this post.

I do appreciate men and women of God who “excel in doctrine and life” in the public square. I have deep respect for those who “exemplify ordinary virtues extraordinarily well” in our world. I love the idea that they are popular and represent the name of Christ well. I gladly celebrate their popularity and will imitate their godly lifestyle if they are audacious enough to say, “follow me as I follow Christ.”

Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us.

I believe there is a difference between being a popular pastor and being a celebrity pastor. Reinhard Bonke and Billy Graham are very popular, but they are not celebrities. The late David Wilkerson and Mother Theresa were both very popular, yet, they we’re not celebrities. My definition of a celebrity pastor therefore, is as follows:

A celebrity pastor is:

Anyone who basks in the glory of his rock star status and takes pleasure in a lifestyle of fame, popularity, self-aggrandizement and narcissism. I use the term negatively to describe anyone who has forsaken modesty, humility, integrity, God’s mission and common sense for a lavished lifestyle of fame, fortune and worldliness.

A celebrity pastor is any pastor who has built or actively seeks to build a platform, a kingdom and a name with the intend of becoming famous instead of pursuing a mission to make Christ famous. Any pastor who models his lifestyle after the likes of those in Hollywood is a celebrity pastor. Any pastor who misuses his influence or affluence in carnal, unethical and sinful ways to promote self is a celebrity pastor. A celebrity pastor is narcissistic, entitled, loves the praise of men and is under a spell of idolatry.

For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ.

The temptation to believe the hype and be carried away into pride, self-aggrandizement and idolatry when appreciated for our ministry is real.

Jesus resisted – when the crowds following him wanted to crown him their king. He rebuked a mother and her two sons and gave them a lesson in servant-hood. Paul warned about the dangers of pride when those in the church of Corinth began to debate about who was greater, better, more anointed. The entire new testament calls for humble servant leadership and discourages pastors from becoming prideful and carnal.

7 Distinguishing Marks

There are 7 distinguishing marks that should characterize the ministry of pastors in the public square. Whether we lead mega churches, write books, speak at big conferences, or lead a small congregation in the middle of no where, we should fight idolatry, consumerism and vain glory. We must seek:

Modesty/ Simplicity
Resist the temptation to live extravagant lifestyles – expensive cars, lavished mansions, $ 5000.00 suits, private jets. For the sake of the Gospel, dial it down.

Integrity
We must learn from the mistakes of those who have fallen into error, idolatry, lust, greed, have squandered their opportunity to change the world and glorify Christ.

Self control
We must deny our selves, pick up our cross and follow Jesus. Put to death every wish to exalt self, indulge self, and promote self.

Humility
We must resist pride. We must strip ourselves of arrogance. It’s not about us, it’s about making Him famous.

Servant-hood
We must resist chasing fame and becoming big shots. Devote our lives to the service of God, His church and His Kingdom.

Godly Witness
Whatever we do – do it to God’s glory. Use our platform or sphere of influence well – to honor Christ and witness to a lost and dying world.

Decency
It is one thing being well dressed and stylish, but another thing being stylishly inappropriate in the way we dress.

What can we do to change this culture?

Start a movement in your city

You are a pastor. You understand the power of servant-hood, humility, and simplicity. You care about fellow ministers and ministry best practice. Start a movement.

Get Satan out of our Pulpits

Satan has found a sweet spot and a foot hold in most pulpits around America, and he is using it to his advantage. It’s about time to cast him out.

Sound the alarm

It’s time to sound the alarm. It’s time to blow a trumpet in Zion. It’s time to raise up a banner of righteousness in our pulpits.

Stop feeding the ego of men of God

I don’t know if it started when Time Magazine put TD Jakes on their cover with the title, “Is the man the Next Billy Graham?” But I know it intensified the desire within pastors to crave the spotlight.

Unfortunately, Christian have fallen into this subtle form of idolatry. so the question in closing is – how can I appreciate my pastor and not tempt him to begin acting like a rock star?