Hey all,
The other night I watched for the first time the controversial docu-film "Jesus Camp", directed by Heidi Ewing and Rachel Grady. Having heard mixed (albeit mainly critical responses) from several Christian friends, I was anxious to see for myself what all the fuss was about, and perhaps offer my own opinions on some of the things shown.
It's probably fair to say from the start that I am probably best described as someone who holds to a full Reformed soteriology, and a charismatic pneumatology, ie I would quite happily sign a five-point Calvinist doctrinal statement, and I believe firmly in the ongoing validity of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. I don't have a huge level of experience of Pentecostal approaches to these things, so I can't say if what is presented is typical of Pentecostalism, and I frankly have no idea quite how honestly the film has been edited; I can only go by what has been shown. I reckon it's fair to say all this before launching into any discussions.
Starting with the positives, I think there are things that can be commended in "Jesus Camp." The "Kids On Fire" (KOF) leadership are clearly genuine Christians with a passion to see youth fired up for Christ in America. They firmly believe in the ongoing power of the Holy Spirit, and the importance of this in the life of the church. However there are also several areas of concern for a Christian, which I will endeavour to examine here.
Much has been made of the extremely politicised brand of religion that seems to be promoted by KOF in the film. The cardboard cut-outs of Bush, the anti-abortion sermon and subsequent demonstration are probably among the most memorable scenes in the film. For a British Christian it's particularly curious, given that evangelical Christianity in Britain has nowhere near the level of political activism suggested by the film. I don't really know how many mainline US evangelicals would respond, but this certainly is not typical in Britain. However I would express concern at the extreme mixing of politics and faith displayed in the film, and the apparent forcing of the children to support the campaigns and positions advocated. That is not to criticise the positions themselves, but surely the mixing of politics and faith in such a manner cannot be either Scriptural or helpful in the building-up of Christian children. "Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness" (Matt. 6:33) said Jesus, and God's sovereign rule in our lives and our personal relationship with Him must always take first place. By all means have Christians active in the political sphere (eg the great Wilberforce, or Edward Leigh MP), but to place political activism on the same level of importance as a personal relationship with Jesus Christ is plainly wrong. This is even more important when one considers that the children being taught in the film are no older than twelve, and many much younger; how can a mere child distinguish between the two if they are presented side by side and of equal standing?
Connected with the presentation of politics and faith in the film is my concern that personal salvation plays little part in the theology of KOF. Much is made of praying for America, and the need for America to be lead by Christ; noble aims, but a revelation of a poor understanding of the Scriptures, and of Christian revival history. The Scriptures are abundantly clear that the person who is not a Christian is in total rebellion against God (Romans 3:9-18, Ephesians 2:1-3, 1 John 1:8-10), and whilst this does not mean that they can do nothing good at all, it does mean that they are unable to do anything that pleases God, because every single area of us is ruined by sin, and no action we do is ever as good as it potentially could be. Thus it is imperative that for any moral revival to occur, it must start with God opening individual sinners' eyes to their sinfulness and their need of God's grace and empowering Spirit. Yet throughout "Jesus Camp" almost nothing is made of individual conversions, certainly not in terms of the desperate need for forgiveness that mankind has. A brief look at revivals in history would confirm this. In Britain the Methodist revival of the 18th century has been credited with preventing Britain from anarchy, and for a complete reversal in moral decline. Yet the Christians at the heart of this played no part in politics; rather they saw the desperate need of individuals to be forgiven by God, and this was what they preached. The moral reversal was a consequence of the vast number of conversions that followed faithful evangelism and a sovereign move of God. Thus I struggle to see the value of praying such "national" prayers; revival starts with God working in individual.
This brings us to the use of Scripture itself in the film by the KOF team. Perhaps not unfairly it could be said that actually more accurately I should say the non-use of Scripture, as precious little does seem to be used! To give an example of Scripture being twisted to justify an area of ministry would be the frequent referrals in the film to Joel 2: 28-32, often referred to when asked about the encouragement of children to exercise spiritual gifts. This is a mighty passage, and does make clear that the outpouring of the Holy Spirit is not confined to a certain class, gender or age. But application of Scripture must always be done under the interpretation of other Scripture, and one of my central concerns is that the KOF appear to unreservedly ignore this. Let me explain. I have no major issues with the children in the film exercising the gifts of the Spirit; if God is sovereign and this passage is to be believed I see no reason why God should not bless them so. I suspect some were probably fraudulent, but adults can just as easily fake such experiences. My major concern comes with regard to the usage of the gifts. 1 Corinthians 14: 26ff is where Paul specifically examines the use of giftings in the church. He orders: (a) the over-arching concern for edification (v.26b), (b) the need for tongues to be only spoken if interpretations are present (v.28), and (c) the need to weigh prophecy (v.29). It is arguable if any of this is ever really applied in the scenes shown; prophecy and tongues are just recklessly encouraged with little regard to how the Word directs us to use them. The encouraging of the gifts mandated by one scripture must then be balanced against the others concerning their usage.
As I said at the beginning, I can only comment on what is shown; it may be that criticisms that I have made are invalid, as KOF have been misrepresented, in which case I apologise. But regardless, the instruction by Jesus to be "as wise as serpents, and as innocent as doves" (Matt. 10:16) is well-illustrated...
Tuesday, 20 May 2008
Monday, 10 March 2008
The Cross Supreme
A few people have asked me for copies of my notes for my final 5:20 devotional last week, so here goes:
University of Warwick C.U. 5:20 Groups Devotional,
Wednesday 5th March 2008, 4:00pm
The Cross Supreme
Galatians 6:11-16
The letter of Galatians is the product of controversy. Paul wrote it with his back against the wall, under fire to abandon his message, and under attack for his character. Soon after accepting the gospel, the Galatians were infiltrated by a group of agitators who attacked Paul’s character, and more importantly, his message. They claimed that in addition to faith in Christ, believers must also be circumcised to be saved, and it appears that they were causing many to depart from true teaching. Paul therefore wrote to defend the truth of the cross and its power, and he does this majestically in the final paragraph.
People will seek diversions from the Cross- v. 12
As he finishes, Paul himself picks up the pen to emphasise the importance of his words. He firstly makes no attempt to deny the problem of false teachings, and tackles the problem head-on. His first point is to explore the reasoning behind the agitators’ actions.
Paul gives two reasons why people will desert the Cross:
(i) To appear successful- v. 12a
At the root of the Galatian heresy was a reliance on outward things. The agitators stressed the need for circumcision, “to make a good showing in the flesh”. John Stott calls this an example of “ecclesiastical statistics”, where we focus on outward evidences of conversion rather than real heart-work. The Galatians wanted something tangible to brag about, a number to flaunt. But as Paul will show, what matters is the “new creation”, the inward workings of the heart.
Are you too preoccupied with outward things? Do you look for a change of heart rather than attendance at meetings etc.? As encouraging and useful as these things may be, ultimately saving faith happens in the heart, and only then can we be encouraged by outward signs. They are “means of grace”, rather than grace itself.
(ii) To avoid persecution- v.12b
Contemporary historical sources suggest that at this time extreme Jews were persecuting those who they claimed deviated from true Judaism. Thus it was very tempting for Christians under huge pressure to desert the truth they had found.
People will always persecute those who hold to the gospel, as it tells them unpalatable truths. But as Paul will show, these truths are vital for salvation.
But the Cross is supreme- v. 14
Having just drawn attention to those who desert the Cross, Paul now boldy claims that he “boasts” in it. Whereas the agitators boast about how many they have circumcised, Paul boasts only in the Cross. How can he make such an outrageous claim?
Paul boasts in the Cross because:
(i) The Cross separates us from the world- v.14b
Only the Cross can separate us from the world, or sinful humanity. As it is sin that separates us from God, we must be separated from sin in order to be reunited with God. Only the Cross can achieve this, and so Paul boasts only in the Cross- it is the means of his salvation
(ii) The Cross alone brings a new creation- v. 15
Paul repeats that outward signs such as circumcision no longer have any value: what matters is inside “a new creation”.
“Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the Kingdom of God” (John 3:3) Only by the Cross can we receive the Holy Spirit who gives a new spiritual life. Paul boasts only in the cross because here he finds new life, and is a “new creation”.
(iii) The Cross alone brings true peace and mercy- v. 16
Only through following the “rule” of the cross can God’s people (“Israel”) find true peace and mercy. Romans 5:1 affirms that it is only through Christ that we have peace with God. Every human being who has not been saved is described by the Bible as a child of wrath (Eph. 2:3), and thus the Cross is vital as it is the only way that God’s wrath can be propitiated (Rom. 3:25, 1 John 2:2). Paul boasts only in the Cross because here he knows that God’s people find true peace and mercy with God.
Do you believe these things? Are they real in your own hearts? Do you believe they are real for others too? Do you treasure them and feel their value? Can you say with Paul that you boast in nothing but the Cross?
Apologies if it's not terribly clear; they are only notes after all!
University of Warwick C.U. 5:20 Groups Devotional,
Wednesday 5th March 2008, 4:00pm
The Cross Supreme
Galatians 6:11-16
The letter of Galatians is the product of controversy. Paul wrote it with his back against the wall, under fire to abandon his message, and under attack for his character. Soon after accepting the gospel, the Galatians were infiltrated by a group of agitators who attacked Paul’s character, and more importantly, his message. They claimed that in addition to faith in Christ, believers must also be circumcised to be saved, and it appears that they were causing many to depart from true teaching. Paul therefore wrote to defend the truth of the cross and its power, and he does this majestically in the final paragraph.
People will seek diversions from the Cross- v. 12
As he finishes, Paul himself picks up the pen to emphasise the importance of his words. He firstly makes no attempt to deny the problem of false teachings, and tackles the problem head-on. His first point is to explore the reasoning behind the agitators’ actions.
Paul gives two reasons why people will desert the Cross:
(i) To appear successful- v. 12a
At the root of the Galatian heresy was a reliance on outward things. The agitators stressed the need for circumcision, “to make a good showing in the flesh”. John Stott calls this an example of “ecclesiastical statistics”, where we focus on outward evidences of conversion rather than real heart-work. The Galatians wanted something tangible to brag about, a number to flaunt. But as Paul will show, what matters is the “new creation”, the inward workings of the heart.
Are you too preoccupied with outward things? Do you look for a change of heart rather than attendance at meetings etc.? As encouraging and useful as these things may be, ultimately saving faith happens in the heart, and only then can we be encouraged by outward signs. They are “means of grace”, rather than grace itself.
(ii) To avoid persecution- v.12b
Contemporary historical sources suggest that at this time extreme Jews were persecuting those who they claimed deviated from true Judaism. Thus it was very tempting for Christians under huge pressure to desert the truth they had found.
People will always persecute those who hold to the gospel, as it tells them unpalatable truths. But as Paul will show, these truths are vital for salvation.
But the Cross is supreme- v. 14
Having just drawn attention to those who desert the Cross, Paul now boldy claims that he “boasts” in it. Whereas the agitators boast about how many they have circumcised, Paul boasts only in the Cross. How can he make such an outrageous claim?
Paul boasts in the Cross because:
(i) The Cross separates us from the world- v.14b
Only the Cross can separate us from the world, or sinful humanity. As it is sin that separates us from God, we must be separated from sin in order to be reunited with God. Only the Cross can achieve this, and so Paul boasts only in the Cross- it is the means of his salvation
(ii) The Cross alone brings a new creation- v. 15
Paul repeats that outward signs such as circumcision no longer have any value: what matters is inside “a new creation”.
“Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the Kingdom of God” (John 3:3) Only by the Cross can we receive the Holy Spirit who gives a new spiritual life. Paul boasts only in the cross because here he finds new life, and is a “new creation”.
(iii) The Cross alone brings true peace and mercy- v. 16
Only through following the “rule” of the cross can God’s people (“Israel”) find true peace and mercy. Romans 5:1 affirms that it is only through Christ that we have peace with God. Every human being who has not been saved is described by the Bible as a child of wrath (Eph. 2:3), and thus the Cross is vital as it is the only way that God’s wrath can be propitiated (Rom. 3:25, 1 John 2:2). Paul boasts only in the Cross because here he knows that God’s people find true peace and mercy with God.
Do you believe these things? Are they real in your own hearts? Do you believe they are real for others too? Do you treasure them and feel their value? Can you say with Paul that you boast in nothing but the Cross?
Apologies if it's not terribly clear; they are only notes after all!
God IS the Gospel
Hey all,
In my quiet times I've just started using a book by John Piper, entitled "Pierced By the Word: Thirty-one Meditations for Your Soul", which as the name suggests, is a selection of meditations by Piper on different Scriptures and themes. Today I read the second, "God is the Gospel", looking at why we desire salvation, and focussing specifically on John 17:3:
"And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent." (ESV)
Piper's point was that many people want eternal life for many reasons that are not Scriptural; eg. they don't like the thought of Hell, they feel a bit guilty, or maybe they want to be in Heaven to be with loved ones. As this verse says, the only reason we should desire eternity is to know the Father and His Son. The reason forgiveness through Christ is so precious is because it opens up the freedom of fellowship with the Father God, which through our sin has become impossible. Piper suggests that wanting forgiveness for any other reason is tantamount to using God as "currency for the purchase of idols".
I have rarely thought deeply about this; and this came as a bit of a shock. As a fully paid-up evangelical, if anyone asks me why Jesus died, my instant answer is to be the sacrifice for our sin which thus makes us right with God. And I believe this is correct, and I trust this is what I proclaim. But it does raise the question of whether our Gospel preaching reflects the true aim of the Cross, that is to reconcile sinners to God. I have listened to a lot of evangelism that has almost presented Jesus as a kind of life guru, who will give you a great life if you only follow His principles, a sort of Dr. Gillian McKeith for your soul, if you will, and completely ignoring the issue of sin. On the other hand, I have heard evangelism of the hellfire and brimstone variety that is great on the reality of sin, but says next to nothing about the actual object of the Cross; not mere "fire-insurance", but to make us fit to be received as sons of the living God (Gal. 4:4-7). I reckon that this is a salutary warning for all Christians to ensure that they faithfully present the Word, in order that all might seek God for what He is, not what He does.
Something else I read this week, and which I submit in the hope that it may prove useful in your daily walk is this. It comes from Jerry Bridges' "The Pursuit of Holiness", available from Authentic Media "Authentic Classics" series, and excellent for anyone still looking for a short but profound Lenten devotional reading. This is from ch. 9 "Putting Sin to Death", and looks at a strategy for examining if something is in line with God's heart for us, and seeking to develop convictions about holiness. It's not something to get legalistic about, but as it is based on Scripture (all from 1 Corinthians), I think it can be powerful in developing a desire for holiness, and mortification of sin in our lives.
Knowing Right and Wrong
1. Is it helpful; spiritually, physically or mentally?
“"All things are lawful for me," but not all things are helpful.” (1 Cor. 6:12a)
2. Does it bring me under its power?
“"All things are lawful for me," but I will not be enslaved by anything.” (1 Cor. 6:12b)
3. Does it hurt others?
“Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble.” (1 Cor. 8:13)
4. Does it glorify God?
“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Cor. 10:31)
Bridges suggests evaluating all areas of our daily life with these questions with the help of the Holy Spirit, and examining the areas which seem to be doubtful. I reckon this could be quite searching and painful, but ultimately very beneficial in seeking to live lives more conformed to God's will and glory. I've pasted these questions up on my wall, and already I can say that I am feeling challenged!
God bless as ever
Will
In my quiet times I've just started using a book by John Piper, entitled "Pierced By the Word: Thirty-one Meditations for Your Soul", which as the name suggests, is a selection of meditations by Piper on different Scriptures and themes. Today I read the second, "God is the Gospel", looking at why we desire salvation, and focussing specifically on John 17:3:
"And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent." (ESV)
Piper's point was that many people want eternal life for many reasons that are not Scriptural; eg. they don't like the thought of Hell, they feel a bit guilty, or maybe they want to be in Heaven to be with loved ones. As this verse says, the only reason we should desire eternity is to know the Father and His Son. The reason forgiveness through Christ is so precious is because it opens up the freedom of fellowship with the Father God, which through our sin has become impossible. Piper suggests that wanting forgiveness for any other reason is tantamount to using God as "currency for the purchase of idols".
I have rarely thought deeply about this; and this came as a bit of a shock. As a fully paid-up evangelical, if anyone asks me why Jesus died, my instant answer is to be the sacrifice for our sin which thus makes us right with God. And I believe this is correct, and I trust this is what I proclaim. But it does raise the question of whether our Gospel preaching reflects the true aim of the Cross, that is to reconcile sinners to God. I have listened to a lot of evangelism that has almost presented Jesus as a kind of life guru, who will give you a great life if you only follow His principles, a sort of Dr. Gillian McKeith for your soul, if you will, and completely ignoring the issue of sin. On the other hand, I have heard evangelism of the hellfire and brimstone variety that is great on the reality of sin, but says next to nothing about the actual object of the Cross; not mere "fire-insurance", but to make us fit to be received as sons of the living God (Gal. 4:4-7). I reckon that this is a salutary warning for all Christians to ensure that they faithfully present the Word, in order that all might seek God for what He is, not what He does.
Something else I read this week, and which I submit in the hope that it may prove useful in your daily walk is this. It comes from Jerry Bridges' "The Pursuit of Holiness", available from Authentic Media "Authentic Classics" series, and excellent for anyone still looking for a short but profound Lenten devotional reading. This is from ch. 9 "Putting Sin to Death", and looks at a strategy for examining if something is in line with God's heart for us, and seeking to develop convictions about holiness. It's not something to get legalistic about, but as it is based on Scripture (all from 1 Corinthians), I think it can be powerful in developing a desire for holiness, and mortification of sin in our lives.
Knowing Right and Wrong
1. Is it helpful; spiritually, physically or mentally?
“"All things are lawful for me," but not all things are helpful.” (1 Cor. 6:12a)
2. Does it bring me under its power?
“"All things are lawful for me," but I will not be enslaved by anything.” (1 Cor. 6:12b)
3. Does it hurt others?
“Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble.” (1 Cor. 8:13)
4. Does it glorify God?
“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Cor. 10:31)
Bridges suggests evaluating all areas of our daily life with these questions with the help of the Holy Spirit, and examining the areas which seem to be doubtful. I reckon this could be quite searching and painful, but ultimately very beneficial in seeking to live lives more conformed to God's will and glory. I've pasted these questions up on my wall, and already I can say that I am feeling challenged!
God bless as ever
Will
Friday, 22 February 2008
The audacity of hope?
Hey all,
Firstly apologies for the fact that I haven't posted in a while. I've been pretty busy of late, as well as the fact that my home internet has been playing up. But nevermind, here I am.
The title of this post may be familiar to some of you, particularly any Americans who happen to be reading. It is of course, the title of Barack Obama's last book, which I can't claim to have read, but have seen referenced quite a lot of late, owing largely to his fairly prolific presidential campaign. Hope does seem to be a definite theme of his campaign, appearing quite a lot in any articles/speeches concerning him. And why not? Everyone wants to put their hope in something. Even if it's just that England might actually score tries in the second-half, and not chuck away a pretty stable lead! But having been thinking about hope, what can we say about it from a Christian perspective?
On my wall next to my desk, I have the words of this hymn:
My Hope is Built
My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly trust in Jesus’ Name.
Refrain
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
When darkness seems to hide His face,
I rest on His unchanging grace.
In every high and stormy gale,
My anchor holds within the veil.
His oath, His covenant, His blood,
Support me in the whelming flood.
When all around my soul gives way,
He then is all my Hope and Stay.
When He shall come with trumpet sound,
Oh may I then in Him be found.
Dressed in His righteousness alone,
Faultless to stand before His throne.
(Edward Mote, 1834)
At the heart of these words is the belief that for the Christian, we have a solid hope that we are guaranteed will never fade. With all due respect to Barack Obama, he can never promise such a hope. All attempts to seek another source of hope will ultimately prove fruitless. Why? The Bible promises so:
"And now, O Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in you." (Psalm 39:7, ESV).
"So when God desired to show more convincingly to the heirs of the promise the unchangeable character of his purpose, he guaranteed it with an oath, so that by two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us. We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain." (Hebrews 6:17-19, ESV).
"For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope." (Romans 15:4, ESV).
Our hope is in God alone, in the promise of His infallible word, that through Christ we might have eternal life with Him. Hebrews shows us that in God's covenant with us through Christ, we are given a "sure and steadfast anchor of the soul". Like a ship safely moored in a storm, we will never be wrenched out of our harbour.
The last Scripture from Romans gives an insight into how we cultivate such a hope. Regular and deep meditation on the Scriptures fuels hope. Why? Because it is here that we meet God. In His word He reveals to us His plans, promises and character. People often ask how they can know God. The answer lies in spending time with His word, and allowing the Holy Spirit to embed it in our hearts, until the promises that it contains become entwined in our daily lives. In an essence, this is why spending time reading our Bibles and committing it to our hearts is so important. If we never spend time with the Word, then we will never be aware of sovereign truths when we need them most, in those hours of temptation and torment when all else fails. C.H. Spurgeon famously commented that "a Bible that falls apart is probably read by someone whose life doesn't", and there is a lot of truth in that.
Audacity of hope? Well, I suppose it takes some boldness to put your faith in God and His Word. But rest assured, it will never, never, ever prove in vain.
"And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ." (Philippians 1:6, ESV).
Blessings
Firstly apologies for the fact that I haven't posted in a while. I've been pretty busy of late, as well as the fact that my home internet has been playing up. But nevermind, here I am.
The title of this post may be familiar to some of you, particularly any Americans who happen to be reading. It is of course, the title of Barack Obama's last book, which I can't claim to have read, but have seen referenced quite a lot of late, owing largely to his fairly prolific presidential campaign. Hope does seem to be a definite theme of his campaign, appearing quite a lot in any articles/speeches concerning him. And why not? Everyone wants to put their hope in something. Even if it's just that England might actually score tries in the second-half, and not chuck away a pretty stable lead! But having been thinking about hope, what can we say about it from a Christian perspective?
On my wall next to my desk, I have the words of this hymn:
My Hope is Built
My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly trust in Jesus’ Name.
Refrain
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
When darkness seems to hide His face,
I rest on His unchanging grace.
In every high and stormy gale,
My anchor holds within the veil.
His oath, His covenant, His blood,
Support me in the whelming flood.
When all around my soul gives way,
He then is all my Hope and Stay.
When He shall come with trumpet sound,
Oh may I then in Him be found.
Dressed in His righteousness alone,
Faultless to stand before His throne.
(Edward Mote, 1834)
At the heart of these words is the belief that for the Christian, we have a solid hope that we are guaranteed will never fade. With all due respect to Barack Obama, he can never promise such a hope. All attempts to seek another source of hope will ultimately prove fruitless. Why? The Bible promises so:
"And now, O Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in you." (Psalm 39:7, ESV).
"So when God desired to show more convincingly to the heirs of the promise the unchangeable character of his purpose, he guaranteed it with an oath, so that by two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us. We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain." (Hebrews 6:17-19, ESV).
"For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope." (Romans 15:4, ESV).
Our hope is in God alone, in the promise of His infallible word, that through Christ we might have eternal life with Him. Hebrews shows us that in God's covenant with us through Christ, we are given a "sure and steadfast anchor of the soul". Like a ship safely moored in a storm, we will never be wrenched out of our harbour.
The last Scripture from Romans gives an insight into how we cultivate such a hope. Regular and deep meditation on the Scriptures fuels hope. Why? Because it is here that we meet God. In His word He reveals to us His plans, promises and character. People often ask how they can know God. The answer lies in spending time with His word, and allowing the Holy Spirit to embed it in our hearts, until the promises that it contains become entwined in our daily lives. In an essence, this is why spending time reading our Bibles and committing it to our hearts is so important. If we never spend time with the Word, then we will never be aware of sovereign truths when we need them most, in those hours of temptation and torment when all else fails. C.H. Spurgeon famously commented that "a Bible that falls apart is probably read by someone whose life doesn't", and there is a lot of truth in that.
Audacity of hope? Well, I suppose it takes some boldness to put your faith in God and His Word. But rest assured, it will never, never, ever prove in vain.
"And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ." (Philippians 1:6, ESV).
Blessings
Tuesday, 15 January 2008
Grace and Freedom
"Your worse days are never so bad that you are beyond the reach of God's grace. And your best days are never so good that you are beyond the need of God's grace."
(Jerry Bridges, The Disciplines of Grace, pg. 19)
This morning the above book came through my door, which was a pleasant surprise since I had completely forgotten about having ordered it! After finishing lectures for the day I went into town to do some reading, as is my usual habit, taking the book with me. I think I am not being too presumptuous if I say that beyond the Bible itself this is one of the most outstanding books I have ever read. It is so rare to find books nowadays that are overflowing with God's outrageous grace, yet rooted in the realities of the Christian walk. Certainly, apart from John Owen's book on sin and temptation, and J.C. Ryle's Holiness, I'm struggling to think of many more.
The quote above is from the first chapter, which I have to say has hit me like a rocket. Here Bridges attacks the sinful mindset that leads Christians to think that God's blessing is performance-orientated. Yes, we do have days when we feel like we can almost smell the frangrance of Christ radiating from us. And yes, we have days when we are so bunged up that we smell nothing except the stench of death and misery, where we feel so far from God that it is a struggle even to think of Him. Yet, God's grace is not dependant on how we feel, or even how we are doing. God loves us regardless. Yes, on our worse days we may be trapped in a mire of sin, but we are still saved, and righteous in the eyes of God through Christ, and nothing can change that truth.
If I really think about it, I am probably well aware of this; in fact, actually, I know I am. But assenting intellectually is very different to having a truth sealed in your heart by the Spirit, which is something I desperately need. Like all Christians, I have my good days and bad days. But for God's sovereign purposes I am also afflicted with a rather melancholic temperament, which means that frankly there are some days where I reckon that I have come pretty close to hell on earth, feeling so far away from God that He just doesn't seem to exist. I have had days where I have felt like this, and yet have been expected to teach the Scriptures, and lead other believers, when I have been so far from God that the prospect of bringing others nearer to Him seemed utterly impossible, even blasphemous. Yet praise God, He loves us and He uses us at even our lowest to share His grace, and His blessings are not dependant on our "performance". We operate solely out of what Christ has done for us on the Cross. At our worst we are never too far slipped to be unreached by this grace, and yet at our best, the times when we feel almost celestial, we are not beyond the need of grace. But Jesus paid for all sin once and for all on the Cross, and it is only through living in a constant state of reliance on Him that we secure His blessings.
"Therefore brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water."
(Hebrews 10:19-22 ESV)
Grace to you all
Will
(Jerry Bridges, The Disciplines of Grace, pg. 19)
This morning the above book came through my door, which was a pleasant surprise since I had completely forgotten about having ordered it! After finishing lectures for the day I went into town to do some reading, as is my usual habit, taking the book with me. I think I am not being too presumptuous if I say that beyond the Bible itself this is one of the most outstanding books I have ever read. It is so rare to find books nowadays that are overflowing with God's outrageous grace, yet rooted in the realities of the Christian walk. Certainly, apart from John Owen's book on sin and temptation, and J.C. Ryle's Holiness, I'm struggling to think of many more.
The quote above is from the first chapter, which I have to say has hit me like a rocket. Here Bridges attacks the sinful mindset that leads Christians to think that God's blessing is performance-orientated. Yes, we do have days when we feel like we can almost smell the frangrance of Christ radiating from us. And yes, we have days when we are so bunged up that we smell nothing except the stench of death and misery, where we feel so far from God that it is a struggle even to think of Him. Yet, God's grace is not dependant on how we feel, or even how we are doing. God loves us regardless. Yes, on our worse days we may be trapped in a mire of sin, but we are still saved, and righteous in the eyes of God through Christ, and nothing can change that truth.
If I really think about it, I am probably well aware of this; in fact, actually, I know I am. But assenting intellectually is very different to having a truth sealed in your heart by the Spirit, which is something I desperately need. Like all Christians, I have my good days and bad days. But for God's sovereign purposes I am also afflicted with a rather melancholic temperament, which means that frankly there are some days where I reckon that I have come pretty close to hell on earth, feeling so far away from God that He just doesn't seem to exist. I have had days where I have felt like this, and yet have been expected to teach the Scriptures, and lead other believers, when I have been so far from God that the prospect of bringing others nearer to Him seemed utterly impossible, even blasphemous. Yet praise God, He loves us and He uses us at even our lowest to share His grace, and His blessings are not dependant on our "performance". We operate solely out of what Christ has done for us on the Cross. At our worst we are never too far slipped to be unreached by this grace, and yet at our best, the times when we feel almost celestial, we are not beyond the need of grace. But Jesus paid for all sin once and for all on the Cross, and it is only through living in a constant state of reliance on Him that we secure His blessings.
"Therefore brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water."
(Hebrews 10:19-22 ESV)
Grace to you all
Will
Friday, 11 January 2008
True Holiness
Having been both challenged and blessed by Larry's post (http://willingwriter.blogspot.com/2008/01/late-night-confessions.html) the other night, I found another excerpt from Ryle's Holiness that I reckon arguably sums up the heart of true holiness:
"Would you be holy? Would you become a new creature? Then you must begin with Christ. You will do just nothing at all, and make no progress till you feel your sin and weakness, and flee to Him. He is the root and beginning of all holiness, and the way to be holy is to come to Him by faith and be joined to Him. Christ is not wisdom and righteousness only to His people, but sanctification also. Men sometimes try to make themselves holy first of all, and sad work they make of it. They toil and labour, and turn over new leaves, and make many changes; and yet, like the woman with the issue of blood, before she came to Christ, they feel “nothing bettered, but rather worse” (Mark 5:26). They run in vain, and labour in vain; and little wonder, for they are beginning at the wrong end. They are building up a wall of sand; their work runs down as fast as they throw it up. They are baling water out of a leaky vessel; the leak gains on them, not they on the leak. Other foundation of “holiness” can no man lay than that which Paul laid, even Christ Jesus...
Holiness comes from Christ. It is the result of vital union with Him. It is the fruit of being a living branch of the True Vine. Go then to Christ and say, “Lord, not only save me from the guilt of sin, but send the Spirit, whom Thou didst promise, and save me from its power. Make me holy. Teach me to do Thy will.”
J. C. Ryle, Holiness: Its Nature, Hindrances, Difficulties, and Roots (1877)
Only in the work of Christ and a relationship with Him can we truly progress in holiness. It's all too easy to slip into a destructive and unscriptural mindset that drives us into desperate attempts to be better people, only to find that we are no better off. That's not to decry the efforts that we must make in means of grace, and it isn't promoting a Wesleyan idea of sinless perfection either. But it recognises that holiness starts and ultimately ends with the work of Christ on the Cross and in the sanctifying work of His Spirit.
Blessings
Will
"Would you be holy? Would you become a new creature? Then you must begin with Christ. You will do just nothing at all, and make no progress till you feel your sin and weakness, and flee to Him. He is the root and beginning of all holiness, and the way to be holy is to come to Him by faith and be joined to Him. Christ is not wisdom and righteousness only to His people, but sanctification also. Men sometimes try to make themselves holy first of all, and sad work they make of it. They toil and labour, and turn over new leaves, and make many changes; and yet, like the woman with the issue of blood, before she came to Christ, they feel “nothing bettered, but rather worse” (Mark 5:26). They run in vain, and labour in vain; and little wonder, for they are beginning at the wrong end. They are building up a wall of sand; their work runs down as fast as they throw it up. They are baling water out of a leaky vessel; the leak gains on them, not they on the leak. Other foundation of “holiness” can no man lay than that which Paul laid, even Christ Jesus...
Holiness comes from Christ. It is the result of vital union with Him. It is the fruit of being a living branch of the True Vine. Go then to Christ and say, “Lord, not only save me from the guilt of sin, but send the Spirit, whom Thou didst promise, and save me from its power. Make me holy. Teach me to do Thy will.”
J. C. Ryle, Holiness: Its Nature, Hindrances, Difficulties, and Roots (1877)
Only in the work of Christ and a relationship with Him can we truly progress in holiness. It's all too easy to slip into a destructive and unscriptural mindset that drives us into desperate attempts to be better people, only to find that we are no better off. That's not to decry the efforts that we must make in means of grace, and it isn't promoting a Wesleyan idea of sinless perfection either. But it recognises that holiness starts and ultimately ends with the work of Christ on the Cross and in the sanctifying work of His Spirit.
Blessings
Will
The Sufficency of Christ
Hello everyone,
Having had a bit of a "dry spell" for a few weeks, I've started reading Hebrews in my quiet time, starting today with chapter 1. I'm using quite an old commentary published by Banner of Truth called "Hebrews: A Digest of Reformed Comment" by Geoffrey Wilson. Despite the name, it was published in 1970, and is quite good if one can get past the slightly ornate language, which reads like a lightweight Puritan, and certainly not like anything recently published. Plus it uses the AV as a starting point, which isn't always that clear!! But it is quite punchy, and has enough meat without being too overwhelming. Also the convenient A5 format and 189pgs means it doesn't take up too much room in my briefcase!!
As stated, I read chapter one today. For those unaware, this is about the absolute supremacy of Christ. I was struck by v.3, which reads "He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power" (ESV). I particularly struck by the understanding of Jesus as the "exact imprint of (God's) nature". In Jesus we see an exact revelation of the Father, yet at the same time they are clearly distinct persons. "The image of the invisible God" (Col. 1:15), through whom we see the Father.
The passage goes on to affirm the sonship and divinity of Christ (v. 5, 8), and his "making purification for sins". That God Himself through His Son would come to earth to redeem fallen mankind is absolutely staggering in its grace and mercy, and I was simply humbled afresh by the grace of God, and His work in Christ on our behalf.
Hebrews was written to Jewish Christians scattered and under seige. They were doubtless strongly tempted to cast off the Christian faith, and turn back to their old legalism. But the writer asserts here the absolute supremacy of Christ in all things: "he (Christ) upholds the universe by the word of his power" (ESV). What a confidence we have; that in all things Christ is upholding them and directing them to their ultimate purpose. We are not without hope; we are destined for eternity with God if we believe in Christ's sacrifice for our sin. And we can be certain that if we are Christians, we will make it through to the end: "And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Christ Jesus" (Phil. 1:6).
"The Christian’s fight is a good fight because fought with the best of issues and results. No doubt it is a war in which there are tremendous struggles, agonizing conflicts, wounds, bruises, watchings, fastings and fatigue. But still every believer, without exception, is "more than conqueror through Him that loved [him] " (Rom. 8:37). No soldiers of Christ are ever lost, missing or left dead on the battlefield. No mourning will ever need to be put on, and no tears to be shed, for either private or officer in the army of Christ. The muster roll, when the last evening comes, will be found precisely the same that it was in the morning."
(John Charles Ryle, Holiness, Ch.4.3)
Blessings in Christ
Will
Having had a bit of a "dry spell" for a few weeks, I've started reading Hebrews in my quiet time, starting today with chapter 1. I'm using quite an old commentary published by Banner of Truth called "Hebrews: A Digest of Reformed Comment" by Geoffrey Wilson. Despite the name, it was published in 1970, and is quite good if one can get past the slightly ornate language, which reads like a lightweight Puritan, and certainly not like anything recently published. Plus it uses the AV as a starting point, which isn't always that clear!! But it is quite punchy, and has enough meat without being too overwhelming. Also the convenient A5 format and 189pgs means it doesn't take up too much room in my briefcase!!
As stated, I read chapter one today. For those unaware, this is about the absolute supremacy of Christ. I was struck by v.3, which reads "He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power" (ESV). I particularly struck by the understanding of Jesus as the "exact imprint of (God's) nature". In Jesus we see an exact revelation of the Father, yet at the same time they are clearly distinct persons. "The image of the invisible God" (Col. 1:15), through whom we see the Father.
The passage goes on to affirm the sonship and divinity of Christ (v. 5, 8), and his "making purification for sins". That God Himself through His Son would come to earth to redeem fallen mankind is absolutely staggering in its grace and mercy, and I was simply humbled afresh by the grace of God, and His work in Christ on our behalf.
Hebrews was written to Jewish Christians scattered and under seige. They were doubtless strongly tempted to cast off the Christian faith, and turn back to their old legalism. But the writer asserts here the absolute supremacy of Christ in all things: "he (Christ) upholds the universe by the word of his power" (ESV). What a confidence we have; that in all things Christ is upholding them and directing them to their ultimate purpose. We are not without hope; we are destined for eternity with God if we believe in Christ's sacrifice for our sin. And we can be certain that if we are Christians, we will make it through to the end: "And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Christ Jesus" (Phil. 1:6).
"The Christian’s fight is a good fight because fought with the best of issues and results. No doubt it is a war in which there are tremendous struggles, agonizing conflicts, wounds, bruises, watchings, fastings and fatigue. But still every believer, without exception, is "more than conqueror through Him that loved [him] " (Rom. 8:37). No soldiers of Christ are ever lost, missing or left dead on the battlefield. No mourning will ever need to be put on, and no tears to be shed, for either private or officer in the army of Christ. The muster roll, when the last evening comes, will be found precisely the same that it was in the morning."
(John Charles Ryle, Holiness, Ch.4.3)
Blessings in Christ
Will
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