More Than I Can Bear

Some people carry extremely heavy burdens. All of humanity shares in the cup of sorrow (Job 14:1), but it seems that some have a cup that overflows with trouble. I dare not repeat the mistake of Job's friends and try to explain or pretend to identify with the suffering that you may be enduring. Job's friends were helpful when they simply sat with Job and experienced his suffering with him (J0b 2:11, 13). It was when they tried to give trite statements and explanations for Job's pain that they became "miserable comforters" (Job 16:2; 42:8). Sometimes the best comfort we can offer those who are hurting is the powerful language of our silent presence.

Perhaps a passage of Scripture that is too quickly quoted to aid those who are hurting is 1 Corinthians 10:13. Here we are promised that God will not allow us to be tempted beyond our ability to endure it. We often will tell people, "God will not put more on you than you can bear." Although used with the best intentions, this type of language is misleading and hurtful. God does not tempt anyone (James 1:13). Yet, God does allow Satan to tempt us (cf. Job 1:12; 2:6). Satan's suffering is sometimes utilized by God to prove, refine, try and strengthen our faith (James 1:2-4; Malachi 3:3). God will not allow Satan to place more upon us (by way of temptation) than we are capable of bearing.

This is all theologically true. But in the messiness of life, these words often bring little comfort. Why? Because when you are experiencing severe suffering it often feels like you are at your breaking point! It often feels like that you have more than you can bear!

Rather than offering theological explanations like Job's misguided friends, it would be far better to empathize and try and "sit with the sufferer." In these hours of grief, maybe it would be better to turn to 2 Corinthians 1:8-11, "For we do not want you to be ignorant, brothers, of the affliction we experienced in Asia. For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death." Paul explains what he knew theologically in 1 Corinthians 10:13, but he tells of what he felt experientially in 2 Corinthians 1:8-9. Paul felt like he was "burdened beyond his strength" and he even "despaired of life itself." If it was okay for Paul to feel this way, it is okay for you to feel this way too.

Like Job, Paul's faith shone through the darkness of his despair. He chose to view his suffering from the perspective of learning more reliance upon God. Paul continues, "But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead. He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will deliver us again" (2 Corinthians 1:9-10). And then Paul makes a simple request from his friends and Christian family, "You also must help us by prayer…" (2 Cor. 1:11).

There are hurting people all around us. They are in our families, in our neighborhoods, and in this congregation. The next time someone says they feel like they have more than they can bear, don't try and convince them otherwise. Instead just sit and listen and then ask, "Can we pray about it?" Don't try and explain away their load, instead help them bear it.

Technology: A Brave New World

We live in a world of technology. One way man seems to be made in the image of God is our propensity and desire to create--and create we have. Some technological advances prove to be great blessings to mankind (advanced Roman roadways "paved the way" for the gospel), while some curse our existence (remember the technological advance of Babel's tower?). Most technological advances are a mixture of both blessing and curse. In this article we will examine the blessings and curses of three technologies of our age.

(1) The Internet.

Our world has become much easier because of the ease of access to information thanks to the World Wide Web. From a spiritual standpoint, churches can communicate with members, church leaders with missionaries, and teachers with students evangelistically in ways never before possible.

With all of its blessings, the Internet has simultaneously created significant spiritual curses. Perhaps the one of the largest dangers is the widespread access and availability of pornography on the net. Statistics show that use of pornography even among Christians is alarmingly frequent. Let us make a "covenant with our eyes" and not let sexual immorality and impurity even be named among those who are Christians (Job 31:1; Eph. 5:3).

(2) Facebook.

The social networking giant, Facebook, has been one of the greatest advances in communication technologies. Christians are able to network and communicate in much more efficient ways. Church announcements, prayers requests, connectivity with other Christians, and opportunities for evangelism and teaching are almost limitless on Facebook.

With the blessing also comes the curse. Perhaps one of the greatest dangers (and also blessings) of Facebook is the ability to renew old acquaintances. This is a danger to married people who may be tempted to innocently (at first) catch up with old romantic interests. What first begins as a "friend request" can easily escalate into running a series of relational red-lights and accelerating into an extramarital affair. This danger is very real. Christian couples who use Facebook should adopt a policy of full disclosure about their social networking use.

3. Smartphones. You can do almost anything technologically from a phone these days. This allows you to be connected and perpetually "available" (both a blessing and a curse!). Also, one can access the Internet, email, texting, games, and even books directly from your phone. One of the great blessings is the ability to have an electronic Bible directly on your phone.

The danger of such "connectivity" on our phones is the distraction it can be to spiritual focus. It can become increasingly difficult to find time to "unplug from the cloud" for quiet time with God in prayer and study. Also, it can be very tempting to text during worship services (or check email or sports scores) when we should be focusing our attention on worship to God.

We do live in a "brave new world" of technology. But it has always been this way (cf. Ecclesiastes 1:9). Man has always had to exercise personal discipline and use the blessings of technology of the age and resist its potential curses.

The Soothing Sounds of the Assembly

Have you ever just listened? I hear lots of sounds when God's people assemble for worship. Some of these sounds are appropriate while others are distracting. Congregational worship involves both giving (by participation) and receiving (by edification). As you actively worship this Sunday, consider the sounds that you hear (or maybe the sounds you are making). Consider some of the soothing sounds of our assemblies.

1. Joyful Singers. Every congregation has that person who sings really loud, sometimes out of tune, but with a smile on his or her face without a care about what others think. I think it is wonderful when people make a "joyful noise" to the Lord (Psalm 95:1) and "make melody to the Lord" with their heart (Eph. 5:19). It is soothing to hear heartfelt praise to God that is "not to be seen of men" (cf. Matt. 6:1).

2. Hilarious Givers. The Bible tells us that God loves a "cheerful givers" (2 Cor. 9:7). The Greek word translated "cheerful" here is the same word from which we get the English word "hilarious." Literally, this word says God loves "hilarious givers." Jesus told us to give like our right hand doesn't know what our left is doing (Matt. 6:3). Is it ever appropriate to laugh in church? Absolutely! Especially when you give sacrificially not knowing how God is going to pick up the slack but trusting he will!

3. Parents Explaining. Recently I heard a father whispering an explanation about the Lord's Supper to his son during worship. God instructed the Jews to use the Passover feast as a teaching tool to explain "their story" as God's people (Exodus 13:14). Does this principle not apply to "our story" (as a people in Christ) since Christ is our Passover? It is a soothing sound to hear a parent passing on "our story" to the next generation in worship to our God.

4. Crying Babies. I have often been asked if crying babies disturb me during sermons. I always answer, "Absolutely not!" Crying babies in worship are a blessing! Why? I have been in churches where there were no babies and all the heads were gray. Those churches are growing old and are about to fade away. The sound of crying children in our assemblies is the sound of a living church! When some were "distracted" by the noise of children, Jesus rebuked the naysayers and said "Let the children come to me!" (Mark 10:14; cf. Luke 18:16).

There are many soothing sounds that reflect a people who have gladly assembled to praise and worship God! It is a joyful occasion when we assemble together as the house of the Lord to worship God (Psalm 122:1; 1 Peter 2:5)! Let us come and make joyful noises to God with the fruit of our lips (Heb. 13:15) in worship!

A Church Full of Ministers

The church at Antioch was a church full of ministers. There were many prophets and teachers in that congregation according to Acts 13:1-3. In fact, there are five that are specifically named including Barnabas and Paul.
In the first century church, there were traveling evangelists who took their teaching efforts on the road. Although Paul did locate his ministry for a period of three years in Ephesus (Acts 20:31), generally Paul was a traveling evangelist. Yet, there were also located preachers that spent their time preaching for a specific congregation of believers. Philip apparently set up his residence in Caesarea and was the evangelist in that city for many years (cf. Acts 8:40; 21:8). It is God’s will that preachers of the gospel make their living from the gospel (1 Cor. 9:14). Evangelists are supported by churches to go forth doing the “work of the evangelist” by preaching, teaching, and publicly reading Scripture (2 Tim. 4:5; 1 Tim. 4:13). Preachers of the gospel are to devote all their time to prayer and “ministry of the word” (1 Tim. 4:13, 15; cf. Acts 6:2-4). Study, preparation, and presentation of the word of God is “the” ministry of the evangelist.
It is unfortunate that many people in the church today refer to the preacher as “the minister.” This is misleading and frankly, unbiblical. It is true that the preacher should be a minister of the word, but he is not THE minister. When we refer to the preacher as the minister, it implies that he is the only one who is ministering to others. The church is not to have only one minister. The church should be full of ministers.
The word translated “minister” in our Bibles is a Greek word that simply means “a servant.” Certainly there is a specific use of this term that refers to the service (ministry) offered by a preacher (cf. Col. 1:23; Eph. 6:21). Also, there is a specific group of men that are to be servants (ministers) of the church—these are the deacons (1 Tim. 3:8). However, the same word is used in a generic way of all Christians (Matt. 20:26; John 12:26; Rom. 16:1).
God designed the church as a living organism. The church is called “the body” in Scripture (Eph. 1:22-23). The church is not compared to organizational structures in the New Testament (like a business, corporation, or bank). Instead, the church is a living organism that depends upon each of the individual parts functioning and working to survive. Paul puts it this way, “For the body does not consist of one member but of many” (1 Cor. 12:14). The church is not an organization with one or two ministers. Instead the church is an organism of many ministers using their talents and abilities together to make the body function properly.
To have the mentality that a single man (or a few men) should be doing "the ministry” of a congregation is contrary to the will of God. God calls all Christians to examine themselves and discover what each one's “ministry” is. What is your ministry? If you can’t answer this question, you need to spend time in reflection, prayer, and study to discover the ministry that God has equipped you to do for his cause.
The Maryville congregation is absolutely full of ministers. We have countless people who are actively involved in various ministries. I have been humbled by the attitude of self-sacrifice and service demonstrated by such large numbers of people in this church. I am thankful to be a part of a church full of ministers!

(Revised version, originally published 7/16/09)

The Importance of Reputation

A recent Wall Street Journal interview with Google CEO Eric Schmidt revealed some disturbing realities about privacy and reputations in the digital age (see article). Google CEO says you may have to change your name to escape your past (see article).

The Internet search engine giant's CEO stated, "I don't believe society understands what happens when everything is available, knowable, and recorded by everyone all the time." Because records are kept of all of your internet activity including internet searches, websites visited, and social networking posts, the indiscretions within the cyber world will scar your reputation and follow you throughout life. It is well known that many employers today will check social networking sites (such as twitter, Facebook, and MySpace) to evaluate the character of a prospect before serious consideration for hire. Google's CEO stated that the only way to "escape" such a wounded reputation in the future will be to legally change your name!

Scripture teaches us the importance of having a good reputation. The writer of Proverbs gives the true life-principle, "A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold" (Proverbs 22:1). The Preacher of the book of Ecclesiastes seconds this advice, "A good name is better than precious ointment" (Ecclesiastes 7:1). As Christians we must care about our reputations. We should put a high priority upon the value of our reputations.

We all make mistakes in the days of our youthfulness that we regret. David prayed to God, "Remember not the sins of my youth or my transgressions…" (Psalm 25:7). However, there is no excuse for "sowing wild oats" because we are young. God does not excuse the indiscretions of youth. Accountable young people must realize there are consequences to their choice--even choices made on-line. The young man Joseph is elevated in Scripture as a young man who continued to seek God when in a foreign land (Genesis 39:9). Likewise the young men Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego realized that they were accountable to God even when not around their parents (Daniel 1:8).

Actions have consequences. We reap what we sow (Galatians 6:7). We are to "sow for yourselves righteousness" (Hosea 10:12). If you sow to the wind, you can expect to reap a whirlwind (Hosea 8:7). May we all, both young and old, realize the importance of our reputations.

It Will Still Work, If You Work It

Growing up on a farm, you learn to use technology both old and new. Sometimes we would clean out fences that were overgrown with weeds and undergrowth. We would use chainsaws and weed-eaters. However, dad would sometimes make me use an old bush-axe or a swing-blade. It was an old piece of technology. But dad would essentially say, "It will still work, if you will work it."

When it comes to evangelism, we sometimes think we have to utilize the newest, most innovative techniques and strategies. We tend to dismiss the "old methods" as moldy, outdated and ineffective. Yet, the best way to convert people to Christ is still the simple, person-to-person Bible study approach. It still yields more long-lasting converts to Christ than attendance drives, programs, and marketing approaches. Yet few seem willing to engage in the "work" of doing personal work. Jesus said that the laborers would be few (Luke 10:2).

However, a recent "Back to the Bible campaign" of old-fashion door knocking has yielded 35 baptisms in Oklahoma City, according to an article from Christian Chronicle (July 7, 2010) (see article here). At first, some of the participants were skeptical of this approach declaring, "You watch. We won't get 10 studies in 100 square miles." Yet after the first day, church members had set up 80 Bible studies. During the campaign, organizers found that apartment dwellers (those in transitional phases in life) were much more receptive than homeowners.

These folks used a simple approach. "We give them what the Bible says and let them make up their own mind. That's really all there is to it," one participant said. Not only have many Bible studies been set up, and 35 people were baptized, but the church that organized the effort was transformed. When people see the power of the gospel working, and that evangelism can still be effective, it becomes contagious. It will change a church, which in turn, will change a community. One person said, "It has amazed us at how many people are saying, 'yes.' None of us will ever be the same."

I must confess that I have been critical in the past of old methods of evangelism like door-knocking. I thought that our efforts might be more effective in other ways. Well, it turns out that the old ways of evangelism will still work. I guess dad was right, "It will still work, if you will work it."

Falling in Love with God

The most important command, above all others, is to “love the Lord your God with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength” (Mark 12:30). Jesus says that all the commands and doctrines of Scripture can be summarized by this one concept (Matthew 22:40).

The old saying says, “You can’t see the forest for the trees.” Sometimes we get lost in all the details of Scripture that we miss the big picture. We can become so overly consumed with all the commands and doctrines of Scripture that we miss the real point. Too often we mistakenly think that right doctrine is the destination of our faith. It is not. The real destination is relationship with God. Sometimes detailed doctrine causes us to lose sight of the real goal of our faith—falling in love with God. That is not to say that doctrine and precise obedience are not essential. After all, you can’t even have a forest if there are no trees. The trees make up the forest. Likewise, individual doctrines are the small pixels that combine together to paint the beautiful portrait of true relationship with God. John put it best when he wrote, “…but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected” (1 John 2:5). Being motivated by his intense love for God, Jesus was compelled to “do exactly as the Father commanded me” (John 14:31, NASB). His motivation was not command-keeping that resulted in love for God. It was his love for God that produced a loving, and exact obedience.

When Jesus says that the most important command is to love God with all that we are, he seems to be describing a life that has completely fallen in love with God. Well, what does it look like to be completely in love with God? To understand this question maybe we should reflect upon the times that we have experienced the overwhelming emotion of falling in love with someone.

Usually, the first thing that happens when you fall in love with someone is that your mind is completely consumed with that person. Constantly distracted, you cannot seem to focus your mind on other things. Your mind is filled with thoughts of the object of your love. You try and visualize your loved one and your mind constantly repeats the words your loved one last uttered.

Dallas Willard describes what being in love with God is really about. In his book The Great Omission he quotes Thomas Watson who writes, “…the first fruit of love is the musing of the mind upon God. He who is in love, his thoughts are ever upon the object” (100). The person who is truly “in love with God” will not compartmentalize their life of faith as separate from their secular dealings. A person who is in love allows their loved one to penetrate every aspect of their lives.

If you are in love with someone, you don’t have to remind yourself to think about them. Being in love means that you naturally can’t get the one you love off your mind. The face of your loved one is ever before your mind. That is what it means to really be in love with God.

The French monk Brother Lawrence called attention to the fact that one must “practice the presence of God.” In order to “fall in love with God” he suggested that one must discipline himself/herself to constantly have an awareness of God’s presence. Similar to the lyrics of the favorite Christian hymn, “Be with Me Lord”, we must strive for a “constant sense of thy abiding presence.”

This is the very principle that David, a man after God’s own heart, had come to realize. He wrote in Psalm 16:8, “I have set the LORD always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.” David is essentially saying that he had learned to make it a constant practice in his life to “set the LORD” before his mind. David’s mind was consumed with a constant sense of God’s presence. He had fallen in love with his God. Have you?

(Originally published July 12, 2009)

The Secret to Happiness!

Scientists have finally discovered the key to happiness in life! An article printed in Redbook and posted on msn.com (May 7, 2007) by Kristyn Kusek Lewis is titled, "At Last! All the Secrets of Happiness Explained!" Scientists reveal the 12 secrets that keep happy people smiling." The article reports, "...decades of research indicate that true bliss stems from possessing 12 distinct characteristics that enable you to navigate life's rough spots with greater ease and feel content no matter the outcome. The good news: You already have most of these qualities--it's just a matter of tapping into them."

For Christians this report is nothing new. Science has now "discovered" what God revealed to us long ago. All of these twelve attributes are blessings that are granted to anyone who would obey God's instructions for life found in the Bible.

Optimism--"We know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28).

Love--"Pursue love...." (1 Corinthians 14:1)

Courage--"The wicked flee when no one is pursuing, but the righteous are bold as a lion" (Proverbs 28:11).

Sense of Choice--"Choose for yourselves today whom you will serve" (Joshua 24:15).

Proactivity--"Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good" (Romans 12:21).

Security--"…whoever listens to me [the wisdom of God] will dwell secure and will be at ease, without dread of disaster" (Proverbs 1:33).

Good health-- "Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit" (1 Peter 3:10; cf. Deut. 6:2).

Spirituality-- "Keep your life free from the love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you'" (Hebrews 13:5).

Altruism-- "Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others" (Philippians 2:3-4).

Perspective-- "Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness, waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be set on fire and dissolved, and the heavenly bodies will melt as they burn!" (2 Peter 3:11-13).

Humor-- "A joyful heart is good medicine…" (Proverbs 17:22).

Purpose-- "The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man" (Ecclesiastes 12:13).

Happiness is usually based upon external circumstances. God does not promise that our lives will always be happy. However, the biblical quality of "joy" is an inner contentment and satisfaction with life that is not dependent upon situation or circumstance. Christians really can "rejoice in the Lord always" (Philippians 4:4). When we follow God and his will for our lives we find the real secret to a life filled with real joy!

Passing Your Faith Down

Christianity is a taught religion. We must pass our faith down to others (Matthew 28:19-20). We cannot assume that the next generation will naturally live by Christian principles and believe Christ's teaching. When left to himself, a child will usually choose a shameful life (Proverbs 29:15). When people are not taught how to have a personal walk with God, an entire generation will arise that "does not know God"(Judges 2:10). Because when we are left to "do what is right in our own eyes" (Judges 17:6; 21:25), our choices seem right but lead to personal destruction (Proverbs 14:12; 16:25).

What can we do to pass our faith to the next generation? We must deliberately teach them healthy doctrine and Christian behavior. Paul said that the things that we know are true must be "entrusted" to "faithful men who will be able to teach others also" (2 Timothy 2:2). This type of instruction certainly begins in the home. Timothy had initially received his "sincere faith" from the diligent teaching of his mother and grandmother (2 Timothy 1:5). Timothy did not have the benefit of a believing, Christian father (Acts 16:1). Paul "spiritually adopted" Timothy and instructed him as if he were his own son (1 Timothy 1:2). Paul understood that fathers have a crucial role to play in training their children spiritually. Fathers are entrusted with the responsibility of bringing up their children in the "discipline and instruction of the Lord" (Ephesians 6:4). Fathers must be an authentic example of faith and diligently teach their children in the midst of everyday living (Deuteronomy 6:4-8).

Several years ago, Gus Nichols wrote the following insightful words about passing our faith to the next generation:

"One hindrance to the unity of the Spirit is that we are living in a secular age. We see everything through the spectacles of 'dollar-marks.' We are materialistic, we think of values in terms of money, and houses, and lands, and things of that sort. We forget that one little child to be reared and trained for the Lord, can rear and train others, and they others, and they others (Ps. 78:5-6), until in a thousand years there may be thousands of souls in heaven--all because we took time to train one. Or, it may be the other way: if we fail, it may be that this one will fail, others under like influence will fail, and others still under those influences will fail--and there may be thousands of souls burning and suffering in hell forever, a billion years from now, all because we put money, and other things, ahead of the spiritual--because we failed to train a child, failed to put the kingdom first (Matt. 6:33)."

(Source: Gus Nichols Lectures on the Holy Spirit page 210. Nichols Bros. Publishing, 1967).

May we all as parents do our best to model and instruct our children in the ways of the Lord. How we teach our children today will effect generations throughout eternity.

Compassion--The Heart of Christ

Do you really understand what it means to have the "heart of Christ?" I must confess that I struggle to have a heart of compassion like he had. The Gospels strongly emphasize how often Jesus felt strong "compassion" for hurting people (Matt. 9:36; 14:14; 15:32; Luke 7:13). As followers of Christ, we are instructed to have hearts that are moved with compassion for hurting people also. One of the most fundamental lessons in the "school of Christ-likeness" is to have a heart that is moved for the hurting. The Apostle John put it bluntly, "But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him? Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth" (1 John 3:17-18).

Tragedy struck West and Middle Tennessee the first week of May. We have seen the horrific pictures of the Opryland Hotel with water up to the exit signs. We have been shocked by the videos of major Interstates turned into waterways. Some have compared the damage in Nashville to the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. Criticism has been plentiful over the lack of media coverage about the flooding in the Music City. Yet, outlying areas like Centerville in Hickman County were hit even harder than Nashville (though it is a small town). People are hurting. Our brothers and sisters in Christ are hurting also. Some congregations have multiple families who have lost everything. I heard of one church that had at least 12 families who have lost all their possessions.

When the Apostle Paul went about preaching the gospel and establishing congregations, he taught the foundational concept of having the "heart of Christ." He taught them the basic teaching of Jesus, "It is more blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20:35). These Gentile Christians had "received" a great blessing from the church in Judea--the gospel had originally sounded forth from Jerusalem. But a great famine had come to Judea and the disciples decided that "everyone according to his ability" would "send relief to the brothers living in Judea" (Acts 11:27-30). Everywhere Paul went preaching, he collected a financial contribution to help in this relief (cf. 1 Cor. 16:1-4; Rom. 15:25-28). Since the Gentiles had received the "spiritual blessing" from Judea, the least they could do would be to contribute "material blessings" to help those hurting in Jerusalem (Rom. 15:27). The Gentile converts got it; they understood the spirit of Christ. They had compassion for those who were hurting. They knew the blessing of giving was greater than blessings received. They opened their hearts to the hurting rather than stifling the feelings of compassion for others.

We now have a great opportunity ourselves. The Lord's church has benefited greatly from the spiritual teaching that has come forth from Nashville, TN. Countless people (including myself) can trace much of their spiritual heritage to the preachers, authors, books and evangelistic efforts of the church in Nashville. The least we can do now, in their hour of need, is to dig deep and help our brothers and sisters who are physically hurting. Compassion--it is the heart of Christ. The elders here have determined to send aid to help those hurting in Nashville and surrounding areas. If you can make any donation (no matter the amount) please give your contribution to one of the elders or the church office. Will will have the heart of Christ and open our hearts toward them?

Additional Note: If you are reading this article online and would like to contribute, I recommend donating to Churches of Christ Disaster Relief Fund.

Are Earthquakes a Sign of Jesus' Return?

I suddenly woke up Tuesday morning (April 20, 2010) at around 5:30 a.m. to the sound of our entire apartment shaking. My suspicions were confirmed a few hours later by the news reports that Maryville (and Blount County) had experienced a 3.3 magnitude earthquake at 5:28 a.m. According to Google Maps, the epicenter of the quake was just over a mile away from our apartment on William Blount Drive.

This was the first earthquake that I have ever experienced. It was very unsettling. When the earth moves, we quickly consider the one who holds the earth in his hand and how we are all accountable to him (cf. 2 Cor. 5:10). Such natural events can be good spiritual reminders.

The early followers of Jesus were taught to "watch" for Jesus' return (Luke 12:35-40), and they lived in a constant state of preparedness (1 Peter 4:7; Revelation 22:20). Jesus spoke of his second coming in terms of its abruptness when he said, "You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect" (Luke 12:40). Likewise, Paul confirmed that it would be unexpected like a thief (1 Thess. 5:3).

However, it is popularly believed that there are "signs" that a person can watch for that will signal Jesus' return. What about the "wars and rumors of wars" and the "famines and earthquakes" that Jesus warned about in Matthew 24:6-8? Does the seeming increase in seismic activity around the world signal Jesus' return and Judgment Day?

Notice carefully the context of Matthew 24. The apostles essentially ask two separate questions of Jesus (in verse 3) as they observe the large stones of the temple (Matt. 24:1-3). The first question: "When will these things be [that is, when "one stone (of the temple) will not be left upon another"-vs. 2]?" The second question: "And what will be the sign of your coming and of the close of the age?"

Jesus answers the first question in verses 4-35. Jesus says that "this generation will not pass away until all these things take place" (vs. 34). "All these things" describe everything prior to verse 34, which includes the "wars, rumors of wars" and the "earthquakes." Jesus gave these "warning signs" that would signal the Temple and Jerusalem's destruction. This did occur in the lifetime ("this generation") of Jesus' hearers in A.D. 70. Wayne Jackson points out that ancient historians recorded the occurrence of earthquakes around the time of Jerusalem's destruction [Such were recorded by Josephus (Wars,4.4), Tacitus (Annals xii.58; xiv.27; xv.22), and Seneca (Epistle 91)].

Jesus begins answering the question of what would be the "sign" of his second coming in verse 36. It is there that Jesus plainly says, "But concerning that day and hour [of his return] no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only."

While earthquakes can be a good spiritual "wake up call" there is no evidence in Scripture to indicate that such are "signs" of Jesus' return. His return will be unexpected and without any warning. Therefore, we must be constantly ready and watching.

Resist Returning to the Old Ways

Christians are sometimes tempted to return to the old ways of life. If you choose to rebel and leave the safety of the Father's house and retreat to a "far country" of sinfulness, you may "enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season" (cf. Heb. 11:25). But one day you will "come to your senses" and awaken to the spiritual train-wreck your life has become (Luke 15:17; cf. Rom. 6:11; 1 Peter 4:1-6; 2 Peter 2:20)!

Paul gives warning to Christians who were tempted to return to a lifestyle of living like people of the world in a lengthy section in Ephesians 4:17-5:21. He warns that such a return is "futile," characterized by a "darkened" understanding, by people who have become "hard of heart" and "callous" (4:17-19). Pointedly Paul proclaims to us, "But this is not the way you learned Christ!" (4:20). If you have truly been taught the truth of Jesus then you have "put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life" and have put on a "new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness" (4:21-24).

Next, Paul gives a list of specifics. Following are things that Paul says we must "put away" as we are striving to really be sincere in our faith following after Christ:

(1) Put away all falsehood, be a person of your word (4:25). Christians cannot be characterized by lies, half-truths, and deception. We must leave these behaviors behind us.

(2) Don't be a person ruled by anger (4:26-27, 31). Christians must learn to resolve their differences with others quickly and not have bitter or wrathful attitudes.

(3) Do an honest days work; don't cheat or steal from others (4:28). The Christian work-ethic dictates that we work to provide for our families and make money to help others in need.

(4) Use only pure speech; Christians must not use corrupt language (4:29, 5:4). Christians must avoid foul language, telling inappropriate jokes (5:4), gossip, or language that is highly critical and destructive of others.

(5) We must avoid sexual immorality (5:3). Christians are not immune from the strong sexual enticements that Satan places before us. But there must not even be a "hint" of sexual impurity among God's saints.

(6) We must not be drunk, filling ourselves with wine; rather we must be filled with the Spirit (5:18-19). Those who live foolishly getting drunk with others will sing their "drinking songs." Christians, however, are filled with the Spirit and have a spiritual song in their hearts sung to one another and to the Lord.

We must not return to the old ways and become partners with the "sons of disobedience" (5:6-7). Why? Because now we are not in darkness but we are "light in the Lord" and must "walk as children of light" (5:7-8). We must take "no part in the unfruitful works of darkness" but must expose them (5:11). The old ways are a foolish, futile way to live. We must walk in wisdom being careful how we walk (5:15).

Better Felt than Told Religion?

Some claim that their faith-relationship with God is "better felt than told." This phrase is used to mean a variety of things. One potential connotation is that there is a component to a life-walk with God that cannot be adequately explained until one has personally experienced it. Certainly there is an "experiential knowledge" to our faith. The Scripture says, "Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good!" (Psalm 34:8). The Hebrew writer affirms that we must "taste the heavenly gift" and "the goodness of the word of God" (Hebrews 6:4-5). Evangelistically, we encourage people to "come and see what God has done" (Psalm 66:5; John 1:39). Peter specifically says that we must always be ready to give an "answer" (Greek-apologia, a defense or explanation) of the hope that lies within us. In context, Peter is discussing giving an answer to those who basically ask, "How can you have such confidence and hope in the midst of persecution?" We must be ready to give a personal explanation to anyone who asks about what God has done in our lives. Telling our personal story of how we came to faith and the difference Christ has made in our lives is an example of evangelism modeled for us in Scripture (John 9:25). Paul often gave his "personal testimony" as a means of explaining his faith evangelistically (Acts 22:1-21; 24:10-21; 26:1-23). On these three occasions Paul gave his "defense" (apologia) by giving his personal faith story. Many who are seeking truth in our postmodern context today are more convinced by personal experiences than by logical reasoning. Subjective experience is not a full-proof approach to evangelism, but it is one that was used by Paul and is often very effective in our current environment.

Skeptics of the Christian worldview, however, will not be persuaded by "warm and fuzzy" stories of Jesus' impact upon your life. After all, personal experiences vary from person to person and don't really prove the truthfulness of anything. Jesus said that we can "know the truth" by being diligent students of God's revealed truth (John 8:31-32). God expects us to direct our analytical abilities toward the evidence of truth he has provided, reason correctly from that evidence, and arrive at God's absolute, unalterable truth (Romans 1:20-21; Psalm 119:89). Paul often used logical reasoning in an attempt to "persuade" people to believe the truth of God (Acts 9:22; 17:2-3; 18:4; 24:25). While "personal testimony" can be effectively used in personal evangelism, Christians must also be prepared to give a well-reasoned explanation of the truth-claims of Christianity. Objective truth must be "proved" from the evidence God has given from nature (Psalm 19:1-3) and from his word (John 8:31-32; Acts 17:2-3).

Truth has come under attack in our postmodern culture. By definition, "truth" is an established fact that shows the reality of something. Truth is objective meaning that it is not dependent upon individual experience, but instead is an absolute standard to which all people are accountable. God's word claims to be this objective, absolute truth (John 17:17). If we don't pursue truth and use our logical abilities to arrive at God's truth, we are "without excuse" and will find ourselves the recipients of God's wrath (Romans 1:18-23).

We must love God and seek him with both our hearts and our minds (Mark 12:30). Let's tell others of what God has done in our lives personally. But may we also be prepared to logically defend the truthfulness of God.

Making Quiet Time with God

I want to tell you at the beginning that I am writing this article for myself. Deliberately setting aside quiet times with God is something I need to really work on. Quiet times with God are essential to true spirituality, a healthy relationship with God, and true religion. Yet in our busy world with hectic schedules and never enough time for the things that constantly call out of our attention, when can I have "quiet" time with God? (I'm asking myself more than I'm asking you). Here are a few principles and passages that I am studying that speak to the importance of what some call the "discipline of solitude" and taking quiet time to be with God.

1. I need to find a quiet place to just quietly breath with and speak to God (Matthew 6:5-6). The danger of religion is that it can easily become something that we only do in sight of other people. Jesus says that true spirituality means connecting with God in places of solitude. It is where God and I meet together privately. That place of solitude may be in an "inner room" (vs. 6), at a quiet place in the woods or a park, in the car on a long commute home, or it may be at the kitchen table long before the sun rises every morning. One brother meets God in quiet places in a cottage in the Cotswolds of England. Wherever the place, I need to make a regular time (perhaps daily) of meeting with God (cf. Luke 9:23).
2. I have to deliberately make the time to be with God (Ephesians 5:15-16). Life has a funny way of hurriedly rushing by us. Paul says that we must "make the best use of the time" that we have. I must realize that Satan's greatest tactic against me is to crowd God out of my life by filling it with lots of good (but less important) things. I must really practice the hymn I've been singing all my life, "Take time to be holy, the world rushes on; spend much time in secret with Jesus alone."
3. I have to make quiet time to experience God in my life (Psalm 46:10, ESV). The Psalmist says that in order to "know God" I have to "be still." Under the new covenant we are no longer commanded to keep the Sabbath day of rest as a communal religious observance. But was God not teaching an eternal, spiritual principle when he instructed the Jews to take time to "rest" from work? Even God took a day to rest from his labor and reflect on what he had done (Genesis 2:2-3). Surely God knew that we would be consumed with the physical world (work and recreation) and would have to be told to "be still" and "unhook" ourselves from the world and reflect upon him (Exodus 20:8-11). Maybe I can learn a lesson for my spiritual walk with Jesus from this Old Testament principle--turn off the television, put down the cell phone, disconnect the iPod, and "be still and know God."

Jesus had the most intimate connection with God that anyone could ever experience. He says, "I and the Father are one" (John 10:30). Yet, even Jesus needed times when he "sent the crowd away" and "departed into a mountain to pray" (Mark 6:46), sometimes spending all night in prayer (Luke 6:12). Jesus realized that to feed his connection with God he needed to go into a quiet place, not into the noisy crowds (even of the Temple).

As Christians we are commanded to assemble together as Christians. We need time together and are commanded not to forsake these gatherings (Hebrews 10:25). However, such assemblies are not enough, by themselves, to connect you to God in an intimate way. Dallas Willard has observed, "Indeed, solitude and silence are powerful means to grace. Bible study, prayer, and church attendance, among the most commonly prescribed activities in Christian circles, generally have little effect for soul transformation, as is obvious to any observer" (The Great Omission, page 153). This is what Jesus seems to be communicating when he tells us not to limit our religious activities to things within the sight of other men (Matthew 6:1ff).

Real spiritual transformation occurs when we "set our affection on things above" and allow our lives to be "hidden with Christ in God" (Colossians 3:1-4). It is possible to be very busy with religious activities but not have any real personal connection with God (Matthew 15:8). We must choose "the better part" and spend quality time with Jesus (Luke 10:41-42).

Parental Instructions from a Non-Parent?

Well, I finish a series of lessons on the family today. It is a major understatement to say that in some ways I have felt woefully ill-equipped to address issues related to the family (and especially raising children) when I don't yet have children of my own. It is very similar to when I would be asked to bring lessons on marriage as a young preacher, though I myself had never yet been married.

Understandably, some people automatically will "tune out" when listening to a sermon about parenting that comes from someone who is not a parent. Likewise, why should I listen to a sermon on marriage from someone who has never been married himself? As a preacher, I once really struggled with this. I determined that there were only two options. I could either never address issues related to marriage and the family until I had the personal experience (and thus not preach the "whole council of God" as I have been charged to do in Acts 20:27), or I could simply speak what God has spoken on these issues and let him use me to communicate his message and attempt to avoid adding my personal opinions. I have chosen the latter.

Think about it for a moment. Jesus often taught on marriage (cf. Matthew 19:1-12), yet he never married. The Apostle Paul gave instructions on child-rearing (cf. Ephesians 6:1-4), but he never had any children of his own. One does not have to have experiential knowledge to be able to communicate what God's instructions direct concerning marriage and the home (although admittedly it can really help the audience relate if you do!).

Perhaps one of the reasons that the state of the family is in such disarray today is because we have listened to the council of men for far too long. Too many parents have built their families on the advice of child-psychologists, popular parenting books, or upon the misguided advice of others whose techniques of parenting do not stand the test of time. It is time that we return to the advice of the First Parent and listen to what our Heavenly Father instructs about the home.

Much of God's advice about parenting is extremely controversial in our current day, it is counter-cultural, and politically-incorrect. Yet God's directives for the home have proved effective for generations; and rightfully so, since He is the architect of the home.

If a single preacher gives lots of personal advice for marriage, you likely are justified to roll your eyes. If a preacher without kids gives his personal steps for raising a successful family, you are likely justified in turning a deaf ear. However, if a man of God simply points to instructions from God about the family we should carefully give attention to those passages on parenting, marriage and the home. Yet, we must each be responsible ourselves to make sure that what anyone proclaims on any topic is biblically accurate by a personal study of the Scripture (Acts 17:11).

If I am ever guilty of "preaching my opinion" on any matter (including parenting), you would do well to dismiss, or even ignore it. But as I strive to simply speak and expound only "the oracles of God" (1 Peter 4:11) I would say with the Apostle Paul, "let him recognize that the things I write [or speak] to you are the Lord's commandment" (1 Corinthians 14:37).

Where is this Global Warming?

Propelled by the threat (perhaps hysteria) of supposed man-made global warming, the American cultural has been convinced to "go-green." From political statements, marketing tactics, and even one church I know installing an earth-friendly heating system, we now seem to be much more conscious of protecting our environment. The advocates of global warming have cooled down in recent weeks as a massive cold front has held an icy grip on the South-eastern states. As a result, one top United Nation's global warming proponent is now going to the opposite extreme and is predicting the beginning of a "mini ice age" (see FoxNews.com's report "30 Years of Global Cooling Are Coming, Leading Scientist Says" on January 11, 2010).

The increased concern of protecting and preserving our environment is a good thing. In fact, it is a divine directive. One of the responsibilities given to mankind is to be a steward and keeper of our earthly abode (see Genesis 2:15). God has given this environment, its creatures, and natural resources for mankind's use (cf. Genesis 2:11-12, 16-17; 3:21; 9:3). Yet, God is displeased when we blatantly abuse his creation (cf. Deuteronomy 22:6-7; Exodus 23:11; et. al.).

We must be good stewards of the earth and not abuse God's provisions for us. However, we must not fall victim to the doomsday predictions and hysteria of the environmental prophets. Man can abuse the earth and even do great harm (remember the Exxon Valdez oil spill in 1989?) However, we do not have the power to destroy the earth. God has reserved that exclusive right having promised that he will be the one to personally destroy the earth and man cannot subvert his plan (2 Peter 3:7, 12). God has personally "reserved" the destruction of the earth with fire for himself on his predetermined day (2 Peter 3:7). Man cannot preempt God's predetermined plans. Even after the oil spill of the Exxon Valdez, scientists were amazed at the "rapid recovery" of the environment which demonstrates that God has designed the earth as a "resilient ecosystem" and not a "fragile environment" (Doughty, Heaven, pg. 48).

From the beginning God designed the environment and weather patterns of the earth to be cyclical in nature (Genesis 1:14). We should expect that there will be cycles of cold weather and decades of warmer temperatures. In fact, God made a promise concerning this after he destroyed the earth by water in the days of Noah. God said, "While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night, shall not cease" (Genesis 8:22).

While we should be very conscious of the fact that we must be responsible stewards of God's creation, we should not be fearful that we will destroy the earth. God holds that exclusive right. We must be personally prepared for that day (2 Peter 3:11-13). In this way, maybe we should be more concerned with heaven than with earth!

Hunger & Thirst for Righteousness

It seems that kids are born loving anything with sugar. I haven't met a kid yet who doesn't like candy. But most kids don't like to eat their vegetables. Parents train their children to eat things that are good for them. After being forced to eat certain vegetables by my parents, after a while I seemed to acquire a taste for them. Once I hated broccoli, but now I intentionally order it and often crave it. I feel so much better when I eat healthy, so now I often crave healthy food.

Jesus said that our lives will be blessed if we hunger and thirst for righteousness (Matt. 5:6). A hunger for spiritually good things doesn't seem to come naturally to most of us. Like the kid who wants to eat candy all the time, it seems we are born into this world with a desire for worldly pleasures and comforts. We don't naturally want the things that are good for us.

The Bible instructs us to "taste and see that the Lord is good" (Psalm 34:8). Like eating vegetables, we have to discipline ourselves to regularly start eating from the "bread of life" of Christ's teachings (John 6:35, 63). You may not like what God's word challenges you to do when you first start reading and studying it. But soon you will realize that it offers a better way of living that permanently gives satisfaction (John 10:10; 4:14).

If all you ever ate was sugar, you would eventually feel miserable. When you start eating healthy, it makes you feel so much better about life. Start seeking righteousness. It might seem restrictive and difficult at first, but soon you will develop a taste for it (cf. Heb. 6:5). After a while you will begin to crave the righteous things of God because it makes you feel so much better about yourself. As the Psalmist writes, "How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!" (Psalm 119:103).

Foundational Doctrines: Apostasy, Salvation's Exit Point

Many Christian denominations today hold to various tenants of Calvinistic doctrine. One of these doctrines is the idea of “the impossibility of apostasy.” This dogma teaches that once a person has been truly saved, there is nothing that they can do to lose their salvation. Many Biblical passages refute this idea, demonstrating the possibility of a true believer falling away. And yet, Scripture also teaches that disciples can have confidence in their salvation and assurance of salvation. Christians should not live in doubt of their salvation. However, there are many warnings in the Bible against our choosing to rebel against God and reject him again. Here we examine the clear teachings of Scripture about apostasy—salvation’s exit point.

1. Once God saves you, no one can take your salvation away. God’s intention is that once you are saved, you will always be saved. Jesus makes clear that no one can “snatch” you out of His hand once you have been saved (John 10:28). Even Satan’s hellish forces cannot overpower God’s gathered people (Matt. 16:18). Those that “draw near” to God will be “completely saved” (Heb. 7:25). By his power, God guards the salvation entrusted to the baptized believer until the final day (2 Tim. 1:12). The presence of the Holy Spirit within the Christian is a “guarantee” of his/her future salvation (2 Cor. 1:22; 5:5). For example, children make lots of mistakes but that does not mean their fathers reject them. Fathers love their children despite their mistakes. God’s grace keeps his children safe (and saved) as long as they remain in his house (in real relationship with Him).

2. Occasional sin does not mean that you have lost your salvation. The Apostle John wrote a letter to Christians to show that we can “know we have eternal life” (1 John 5:13). True disciples are those who have “fellowship” with the Father and His Son Jesus Christ (1 John 1:3). Living for God we often sin and must acknowledge this fact (1 John 1:8). This does not mean that a disciple has lost his salvation. The blood of Jesus continually cleanses true disciples from their sin—keeping them saved (1 John 1:7). Of course this does not mean that we have a license to freely sin (Rom. 6:1-4).

3. It is possible to be genuinely saved but choose to reject God and become lost again. A child of God can choose to leave the Father’s house and return to a life of rebellion, “walking in darkness” (1 John 1:6). If we leave the lifestyle of true discipleship to return to a lifestyle of sin, our fellowship with God becomes severed (1 John 1:6). If you return to a lifestyle of sin, this grieves the Holy Spirit inside of you (Eph. 4:30), eventually causing God’s Holy Spirit to leave your life (cf. Psalm 51:11). One can be truly saved, having “tasted the heavenly gift, and having shared the Holy Spirit,” and then fall away (Heb. 6:4-6). A Christian can “wander from the truth” and lose his soul (James 5:19-20). The Hebrew writer warns true Christians, “Take care, brothers, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God” (Heb. 3:12). If you return to a lifestyle of deliberate sin, you have forfeited the sacrifice made for your sin (Heb. 10:26-27). Also, if you stop trusting in Jesus and start trusting in your own goodness to save you, you “fall from grace” (Gal. 5:1-4). Your works cannot save you (Eph. 2:8-9).

Peter writes of a person who once “escaped the defilements of the world” (saved from their sins) but then becomes entangled in them again, “the last state has become worse for them than the first” (2 Peter 2:20-22). You can choose to walk away and exit your salvation. But if you are saved, you will always be saved if you continue in fellowship with God, standing under the protection of his grace (Rom. 5:2).

Foundational Doctrines: Baptism, Salvation's Entry Point

Almost every “Christian” religious group practices and teaches some form of baptism. Some baptize infants, others adults. Christian groups sprinkle or pour while others practice total immersion in water. There are those that teach that “baptism in the Spirit” and “baptism in water” are separate events. Baptist groups teach the necessity of baptism, yet cannot bring themselves to say that baptism is essential for salvation. There is great debate and disagreement about this central Christian doctrine. What can we know with confidence regarding this fundamental teaching?

1. Baptism is the moment when you call upon the Lord to save you. Religious works of human righteousness cannot save anyone. We are only saved by grace through faith (Eph. 2:8-9). In order to be saved, we must “call upon God” to save us by his grace (Acts 2:21). Many mistakenly assume that “calling upon God” occurs in prayer, but the Bible teaches that this occurs in the event of baptism: “And now why do you wait? Rise and be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on his name” (Acts 22:16). Baptism as a religious rite does not save anyone. However, baptism does “now save” us since it is the God-ordained event where we “appeal to God for a good conscience” (1 Peter 3:21). Only an adult can make this appeal.

2. Baptism is the moment when you are united with Christ. Jesus is the only “way” of salvation and relationship with God (John 14:6). There is no “other name” by which we can be saved (Acts 4:12). Therefore, the Bible teaches that it is essential that we be “baptized in the name of Jesus Christ” (Acts 2:38; cf. Matt. 28:19). At baptism we are “buried” with Christ into his death (Rom. 6:4). Immersion in water mimics this burial (Col. 2:12). In fact, the English word “baptism” actually comes from a Greek word that means “to plunge, to dip, to immerse.” In baptism we are “united with Christ” and we arise to a new life (Rom. 6:4-5). Clearly a person is not united with Christ prior to baptism. The new life (of salvation) begins only after one has been united with Christ in baptism.

3. Baptism is when you receive the forgiving power of Jesus’ blood. Only Jesus’ pure blood can provide cleansing and freedom from our sin (Rom. 5:9; Rev. 1:5). Jesus blood was “poured out for many” in his death on the cross (Matt. 26:28). We contact Jesus’ death (and therefore his blood) when we are “baptized into his death” (Rom. 6:4).

4. Baptism is the moment of contacting the power of Jesus’ resurrection. The real power of salvation is found in the power of God. We must have faith in the “powerful working of God” that occurs when we are “buried with him in baptism” (Col. 2:12). Baptism saves us because it is the place God has determined where we contact the power of Jesus’ resurrection (1 Peter 3:21-22).

5. Baptism is the moment of spiritual rebirth and renewal. In order to enter the kingdom of God, it is absolutely essential that we be “born again” (John 3:3-8). This spiritual rebirth occurs when we are “born of water” and “born of the Spirit” (John 3:5). At the event of Christian baptism, we are immersed in water and we receive the gift of God’s Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38; Acts 5:32). The power of God’s Spirit saves us, not our own works. At baptism, God saves us by his mercy “by the washing of regeneration and the renewal of the Holy Spirit”
(Titus 2:5).

God has determined that baptism is the moment when he saves a penitent believer by his grace and the blood of his Son Jesus Christ. It is salvation’s entry point—when the new life begins.

Foundational Doctrines: The Church's (O)Mission"

There is a great deal of confusion today when it comes to the real mission of the church. Churches are involved in countless numbers of programs and activities that are doing great amounts of good. However, we are often distracted by all these “good” things from the real mission of the church. While involved in all types of “community outreach programs” the church has often been guilty of the “Great Omission” rather than the “Great Commission.”

1. The real mission of the church is to “make disciples.” Jesus gave the clear “mission statement” for his followers when he said, “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19-20). The command in these verses is to “make disciples.” This is something that every Christian is commanded to do “while we are going” about our daily lives, encountering others “as we go.” The process of “making a disciple” involves baptizing them and teaching them Jesus’ commands. Christians and churches should not become distracted from the real mission of “making disciples.”

2. Disciples of Jesus are “made” to disciple others. Jesus commanded his first disciples to “follow” him and he would “MAKE” them to be fishers of men (Matthew 4:19). The very definition of being a true disciple of Jesus means that Jesus “made” you for the purpose of making more disciples. Therefore, if you are not trying to make other disciples, then you are not a true disciple of Christ yourself. Jesus commands you to “make disciples.” It is a command; it is not optional. It is true that we all have different talents as we work in the body of Christ (cf. Romans 12:4-8). Some people are better equipped to evangelize than others. In a similar way, the human body is full of various cells that are designed for different functions (i.e. brain cells, stem cells, white blood cells, etc.). Some cells are especially equipped for reproduction (reproductive cells: eggs, sperm). However, every cell by virtue of being a cell (by definition) divides. In the same way, while some Christians may be more talented toward evangelism, all disciples by definition are required to divide and make more disciples.

3. “Making a disciple” means teaching someone the process of being spiritually reborn so that the inner character of Jesus himself is spiritually formed inside of that person. This involves baptism but is not limited to it. Jesus did not send us out to go and baptize people. He sends us out to “make disciples” by teaching the gospel (of which baptism, although essential, is only a part). This is what Paul was stressing when he wrote, “For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the gospel” (1 Cor. 1:17a). The aim of our teaching should be to teach others until “Christ is formed” in them (Galatians 4:19).

4. When we teach someone to become a disciple, we trust in the power of God, not our own ability, to transform them. The power of the gospel is found in God’s righteous work through Christ’s saving acts. The power is not found in our ability to teach eloquently (1 Cor. 1:17b). God entrusts us with the “ministry” and “message” of reconciliation and God “makes his appeal” to people’s hearts through our teaching (2 Cor. 5:18-21). We “plant” and “water” and God gives the growth (1 Cor. 3:7).

The Bible says that the church is the bride and Christ is the bridegroom (Eph. 5:31-32; Rev. 19:7). The natural result of intimacy between a bride and a groom is reproduction. Disciples were “made” for this mission.