The new year is upon us. In just a little more than two days, we will bid "so long!" to 2011, and "welcome!" to 2012. We need to make the most of the time we are given. As Christians, we need to take every opportunity to renew ourselves in the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. This can only happen as we look ahead, with our eyes firmly focused on the prize which is Jesus Christ and His Glorious Kingdom! Let's look at what some verses of scripture have to say on our Christian obligation to look ahead.
In Philippians 3:13-14 Paul says , "Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead,I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Paul understood how to overcome his past before he even completely understood the fullness of the grace of Jesus Christ. Paul says he is forgetting what is behind (mistakes, regrets, bad decisions) and instead is STRAINING toward what is ahead. He is pressing on towards the goal which is Jesus Christ. It's hard work as is evidenced by the fact that he is straining and pressing forward. It's hard to let go, but Paul knows that he must. He is called to more. He is called to the future promises of Jesus Christ. Yesterday is done, we must move forward towards our goal.
In Luke 9:62 Jesus says this, "Jesus replied, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God." This is a wonderful illustration our Lord uses. Think about a farmer plowing his fields. He starts at one end, looking at the other end he finds a tree or a post to use as a target, and then sets his course, making nice, even rows as he goes. In order to do this, the farmer must keep his eye forward. Could you imagine the mess the field would be in if a farmer plowed and looked behind himself rather than forward? It would result in a poorly plowed field and an utter waste of time. In this instance, the fertile field is the kingdom, the plow is the gift of Salvation of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, and we are the farmer. Once we take hold of the plow, once we take hold of our new image in Jesus Christ, we cannot look back. We must move forward in our knowledge and relationship with Jesus Christ. Our focus must always be forward.
Lastly, in Hebrews 6:1 it says, "Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death, and of faith in God,". What this is saying is "Stop saying you're sorry for what you have already been fogiven for!" Too often we apologize for the same thing over and over. We are stuck, unable to accept the forgiveness that we are given in Christ Jesus. The writer of Hebrews says it plainly, stop laying the foundation of repentance again. We are supposed to move on and grow in maturity. Not stay the same, not relive the good old days, we are supposed to leave elementary teachings behind and go on to maturity. We are supposed to grow, and we cannot grow while we are stuck in the past.
I had a friend of mine tell me once that the word DEVIL spelled backwards is LIVED, because the devil only lives in your past. 2012 is almost here, approach this year with a heart for Jesus Christ. Resolve to make this the year to forget the past, grow in spiritual maturity and press on towards the goal which is Jesus Christ. Have a happy and blessed new year and stay close to Jesus.
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Monday, December 26, 2011
The Rest of the Christmas Story!
Do not weep! See the Lion of the tribe of Judah, of the root of David, has triumphed! He is able to open the scroll and it's seven seals!~ Revelation 5:5
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
There are gifts...and then there are Gifts!
I am team preaching with Scott on Christmas Day, and have been kicking around some thoughts on the message. Here is where the Spirit has led me the last several days:
The best Christmas gift I ever received? That’s a tough one… I mean in a “gift” (tangible) sense, it’s a tough one to consider. Of course, my wife and my kids would be the answer in a general sense. But a real gift…and not counting the awesome homemade gifts my kids have given me over the years, that's something to think about. Well then, there is certainly the year that the power went out in 1982 for Christmas, and everybody played the Parcheesi game I got by the light of the fireplace. And then there is the Christmas in 1978 when I was 5 and we went to Italy, and I got to sing “Nasciu u Bambineddu” (Little Baby Jesus is Born) in church. That was cool. But my favorite gift has to be my Ipod Touch that I got last year. That thing is always on me…and I love it.
But let’s get real here. These gifts pale in comparison, as do all gifts, to the greatest gift of all- Jesus Christ. The one gift, the one birth, that is the reason we celebrate this time each year (regardless of how commercialized it has become). No Jesus would mean, no Christmas. So let’s really consider what the greatest gift is.
The Apostle John tells us in the famous John 3:16 verse, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” Thank you Father, thank you God for a truly wonderful gift. Could you think of a better gift? Could you imagine loving someone so much that you would give them your son or daughter? It is unimaginable. It is inconceivable. And yet, it is true. God gave us His Son, Jesus Christ, as a gift to us because he loves us.
How valuable is this gift? Well, besides promising eternal life to all those who confess and believe that Jesus is Lord, we have several other indications as to how “valuable” it actually is. In Ephesians 1 it tells us that Jesus Christ blessed us with EVERY spiritual blessing. Every single one! Jesus held nothing back when he blessed us; He gives us every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places! Why does he bless us so? Well, Paul tells us that Jesus did this, “…according to the purpose of His will, to the praise of His glorious grace.” (v5-6). Jesus adopted us, blessed us, and gave us an inheritance-a gift of inestimable worth-because it makes Him happy. Sounds a lot like the reason we give our children gifts at Christmas…because it makes them happy!
In the parable of the lost Coin in Luke 8, it talks about a woman that has 10 coins and loses one. Even though she still has 9 coins, she sweeps the house clean and does not rest until she finds it. And when she does find it, she celebrates with her friends and family that she found what had been lost. In the story, the lost coin represents a sinner, and Jesus is the person that finds us, saves us, and celebrates when we are found and saved. We are valuable to Jesus, because through Jesus and His gift we are worthy of salvation.
So you see, comparing the “regular” gifts we get at Christmas, or anything else that we have to the surpassing gift of Jesus Christ is really no comparison at all. Paul speaks correctly in Philippians 3:4-9 when he says the following (bold for effect by me):
“3 For it is we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit, who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh— 4 though I myself have reasons for such confidence. If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: 5 circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; 6 as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless.
7 But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8 What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in[a] Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.”
You see, Paul had it all: power, prestige, education, lineage, all really good worldly stuff. And yet he considered it all garbage when viewed through the lens of the surpassing WORTH of knowing Jesus Christ as Lord.
My prayer for all of you is that you know Jesus as your Lord and Saviour, that you accept the gift that is freely given, and let your heart unwrap the greatest gift of all, Jesus Christ.
I pray blessings on all of you this Christmas. May the Lord bless you all richly and may you enjoy the time you have with your family and friends.
The best Christmas gift I ever received? That’s a tough one… I mean in a “gift” (tangible) sense, it’s a tough one to consider. Of course, my wife and my kids would be the answer in a general sense. But a real gift…and not counting the awesome homemade gifts my kids have given me over the years, that's something to think about. Well then, there is certainly the year that the power went out in 1982 for Christmas, and everybody played the Parcheesi game I got by the light of the fireplace. And then there is the Christmas in 1978 when I was 5 and we went to Italy, and I got to sing “Nasciu u Bambineddu” (Little Baby Jesus is Born) in church. That was cool. But my favorite gift has to be my Ipod Touch that I got last year. That thing is always on me…and I love it.
But let’s get real here. These gifts pale in comparison, as do all gifts, to the greatest gift of all- Jesus Christ. The one gift, the one birth, that is the reason we celebrate this time each year (regardless of how commercialized it has become). No Jesus would mean, no Christmas. So let’s really consider what the greatest gift is.
The Apostle John tells us in the famous John 3:16 verse, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” Thank you Father, thank you God for a truly wonderful gift. Could you think of a better gift? Could you imagine loving someone so much that you would give them your son or daughter? It is unimaginable. It is inconceivable. And yet, it is true. God gave us His Son, Jesus Christ, as a gift to us because he loves us.
How valuable is this gift? Well, besides promising eternal life to all those who confess and believe that Jesus is Lord, we have several other indications as to how “valuable” it actually is. In Ephesians 1 it tells us that Jesus Christ blessed us with EVERY spiritual blessing. Every single one! Jesus held nothing back when he blessed us; He gives us every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places! Why does he bless us so? Well, Paul tells us that Jesus did this, “…according to the purpose of His will, to the praise of His glorious grace.” (v5-6). Jesus adopted us, blessed us, and gave us an inheritance-a gift of inestimable worth-because it makes Him happy. Sounds a lot like the reason we give our children gifts at Christmas…because it makes them happy!
In the parable of the lost Coin in Luke 8, it talks about a woman that has 10 coins and loses one. Even though she still has 9 coins, she sweeps the house clean and does not rest until she finds it. And when she does find it, she celebrates with her friends and family that she found what had been lost. In the story, the lost coin represents a sinner, and Jesus is the person that finds us, saves us, and celebrates when we are found and saved. We are valuable to Jesus, because through Jesus and His gift we are worthy of salvation.
So you see, comparing the “regular” gifts we get at Christmas, or anything else that we have to the surpassing gift of Jesus Christ is really no comparison at all. Paul speaks correctly in Philippians 3:4-9 when he says the following (bold for effect by me):
“3 For it is we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit, who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh— 4 though I myself have reasons for such confidence. If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: 5 circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; 6 as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless.
7 But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8 What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in[a] Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.”
You see, Paul had it all: power, prestige, education, lineage, all really good worldly stuff. And yet he considered it all garbage when viewed through the lens of the surpassing WORTH of knowing Jesus Christ as Lord.
My prayer for all of you is that you know Jesus as your Lord and Saviour, that you accept the gift that is freely given, and let your heart unwrap the greatest gift of all, Jesus Christ.
I pray blessings on all of you this Christmas. May the Lord bless you all richly and may you enjoy the time you have with your family and friends.
Sunday, December 18, 2011
12 days of Christmas...What do they mean?
Ever wonder where some Christmas songs come from and what they mean. For instance, what in the world do milking maids, leaping lords, French hens, swimming swans, and gold rings have to do with Christmas?
Today, I found out.
From 1558 until 1829, Catholics in England were not permitted to practice their faith openly due to the tension with the Anglican Church of England. Someone during that era wrote this carol as a catechism song for young Catholics. Sounds silly since the two “religions” share almost everything in common. But hey, this does give us a great Christmas carol and a very cool story!!
Meaning as follows:
The PARTRIDGE IN A PEAR TREE was Jesus Christ.
TWO TURTLE DOVES were the Old and New Testaments.
THREE FRENCH HENS stood for faith, hope and love.
The FOUR CALLING BIRDS were the four gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke & John.
The FIVE GOLDEN RINGS recalled the Torah or Law, the first five books of the Old Testament.
The SIX GEESE A-LAYING stood for the six days of creation.
SEVEN SWANS A-SWIMMING represented the sevenfold gifts of the Holy Spirit--Prophesy, Serving, Teaching, Exhortation, Contribution, Leadership, and Mercy.
The EIGHT MAIDS A-MILKING were the eight beatitudes.
NINE LADIES DANCING were the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit--Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self Control.
The TEN LORDS A-LEAPING were the ten commandments.
The ELEVEN PIPERS PIPING stood for the eleven faithful disciples.
The TWELVE DRUMMERS DRUMMING symbolized the twelve points of belief in the Apostles’ Creed.
Today, I found out.
From 1558 until 1829, Catholics in England were not permitted to practice their faith openly due to the tension with the Anglican Church of England. Someone during that era wrote this carol as a catechism song for young Catholics. Sounds silly since the two “religions” share almost everything in common. But hey, this does give us a great Christmas carol and a very cool story!!
Meaning as follows:
The PARTRIDGE IN A PEAR TREE was Jesus Christ.
TWO TURTLE DOVES were the Old and New Testaments.
THREE FRENCH HENS stood for faith, hope and love.
The FOUR CALLING BIRDS were the four gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke & John.
The FIVE GOLDEN RINGS recalled the Torah or Law, the first five books of the Old Testament.
The SIX GEESE A-LAYING stood for the six days of creation.
SEVEN SWANS A-SWIMMING represented the sevenfold gifts of the Holy Spirit--Prophesy, Serving, Teaching, Exhortation, Contribution, Leadership, and Mercy.
The EIGHT MAIDS A-MILKING were the eight beatitudes.
NINE LADIES DANCING were the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit--Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self Control.
The TEN LORDS A-LEAPING were the ten commandments.
The ELEVEN PIPERS PIPING stood for the eleven faithful disciples.
The TWELVE DRUMMERS DRUMMING symbolized the twelve points of belief in the Apostles’ Creed.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
What drives you?
Psalm 25: 14 “the Lord confides in those who fear Him, He makes His secrets known to them.”
What does it mean to have Fear of the Lord? This passage tells us that the Lord shared His secrets with those who fear him.
The truth is, whatever it is that you fear the most will dictate how you will live your life.
I’d like to give you an example from an illustration I once heard. What if you were lost out in the middle of the ocean without a life jacket? Your chief fear is drowning. So that fear dictates how you live your life. You do everything in your power to stay afloat. Now suppose with me that just a week ago you had been watching the Discovery Channel and they had a special about this 18 inch marine cockroach that swam in the ocean and ate people’s faces (of course there is really no such animal). If you saw this creature swimming toward you then your chief fear would go from drowning to being eaten by a cockroach. You would now have a new fear to dictate your living. What if in the midst of all of this you heard that eerie music and a dorsal fin of a 24 foot great white shark pierced the surface of the water. Suddenly drowning and being eaten by a cockroach have taken backseats to being mauled by this massive shark. Now here you have an even greater fear that will dictate how you live your life.
So then I contend that as long as our greatest fear is how we will meet the bills next month or when we will be married, or if we have enough groceries for tomorrow, or if we are popular, or how we look, or when the next time I can participate in my hobby is, then those things will dictate how we live our lives. It is not until our chief fear is the Fear of the LORD that we will live our lives fully for God.
Some people think that to fear God simply means to respect Him but it is clear through scripture that this idea of respecting God undermines the true meaning and depth of what it means to fear God.
Consider Exodus 20:18-21 18 When the people saw the thunder and lightning and heard the trumpet and saw the mountain in smoke, they trembled with fear. They stayed at a distance 19 and said to Moses, "Speak to us yourself and we will listen. But do not have God speak to us or we will die."
20 Moses said to the people, "Do not be afraid. God has come to test you, so that the fear of God will be with you to keep you from sinning."
21 The people remained at a distance, while Moses approached the thick darkness where God was.
The people believe that if they go near the mountain of God they will die, this is not simply respect. It is rather a Holy Fear.
This is much the same in our spiritual life. So often we are content to just respect God. Just like a mosquito bite, we may have signs that show we have encountered God, but we really very seldom fear God anymore. Every time someone in the Bible saw God their response was fear that they might die. If not that then at least they fell down in worship of Mighty God. This is the God we are to fear. And we must fear Him if we expect Him to share with us His secrets, His very covenants.
Isaiah 33: 6 speaks of the fear of the Lord being a treasure, 6 He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the LORD is the key to this treasure. [a]
In Matthew 6:21 Jesus says that where your treasure is there your heart will be also. So you see that the thing you fear the most will dictate how you live your life. If God is what you fear most, then your life’s service will reflect that.
Don’t think that I am saying we must remain petrified by the thought of God. Rather, as we learn to Fear God we will be driven to Him. He will be our treasure and our very great reward. Our Holy Fear of God brings us so relationally close to God that we are enveloped by Him. Not unlike the family dog that is attracted to, and seeks the affection of the “alpha” person in the household.
What does it look like to fear the LORD? I came across this cool acronym to remind us. If you can remember this acronym I believe you can remember what it means to fear God. S.O.A.P.= STUDY OBSERVE and PRAISE.
1. STUDY:
Deuteronomy 17:18-20 18 When he takes the throne of his kingdom, he is to write for himself on a scroll a copy of this law, taken from that of the priests, who are Levites. 19 It is to be with him, and he is to read it all the days of his life so that he may learn to revere the LORD his God and follow carefully all the words of this law and these decrees 20 and not consider himself better than his brothers and turn from the law to the right or to the left. Then he and his descendants will reign a long time over his kingdom in Israel.
2. OBSERVE:
Deuteronomy 31:12,13 “assemble the people… that they may hear and learn and fear the Lord your God, and be careful to observe all the words of this law.”
3. PRAISE:
Psalm 22:23 23 You who fear the LORD, praise him!
All you descendants of Jacob, honor him!
Revere him, all you descendants of Israel!
Psalm 118:4 4 Let those who fear the LORD say:
"His love endures forever."
Psalm 135:20 20 O house of Levi, praise the LORD;
you who fear him, praise the LORD.
This is a perpetual motion, a circular pattern for if you come through step three you will find yourself again at step one.
STUDY-> OBSERVE-> PRAISE-> STUDY-> OBSERVE-> PRAISE-> STUDY
Old Testament, New Testament, it does not matter! As you study the things of God you realize His promises and His commands, thus you are compelled by the Spirit to put these things that you have learned into practice. As you observe these things of God you see Him as faithful to His word and always a true and righteous God, thus prompting your praise of Him. As you praise God you enter into a deeper relationship with Him and find yourself desiring more of Him thus thrusting yourself into a more arduous pursuit of Him in your study and so the cycle goes on and on.
What does it mean to have Fear of the Lord? This passage tells us that the Lord shared His secrets with those who fear him.
The truth is, whatever it is that you fear the most will dictate how you will live your life.
I’d like to give you an example from an illustration I once heard. What if you were lost out in the middle of the ocean without a life jacket? Your chief fear is drowning. So that fear dictates how you live your life. You do everything in your power to stay afloat. Now suppose with me that just a week ago you had been watching the Discovery Channel and they had a special about this 18 inch marine cockroach that swam in the ocean and ate people’s faces (of course there is really no such animal). If you saw this creature swimming toward you then your chief fear would go from drowning to being eaten by a cockroach. You would now have a new fear to dictate your living. What if in the midst of all of this you heard that eerie music and a dorsal fin of a 24 foot great white shark pierced the surface of the water. Suddenly drowning and being eaten by a cockroach have taken backseats to being mauled by this massive shark. Now here you have an even greater fear that will dictate how you live your life.
So then I contend that as long as our greatest fear is how we will meet the bills next month or when we will be married, or if we have enough groceries for tomorrow, or if we are popular, or how we look, or when the next time I can participate in my hobby is, then those things will dictate how we live our lives. It is not until our chief fear is the Fear of the LORD that we will live our lives fully for God.
Some people think that to fear God simply means to respect Him but it is clear through scripture that this idea of respecting God undermines the true meaning and depth of what it means to fear God.
Consider Exodus 20:18-21 18 When the people saw the thunder and lightning and heard the trumpet and saw the mountain in smoke, they trembled with fear. They stayed at a distance 19 and said to Moses, "Speak to us yourself and we will listen. But do not have God speak to us or we will die."
20 Moses said to the people, "Do not be afraid. God has come to test you, so that the fear of God will be with you to keep you from sinning."
21 The people remained at a distance, while Moses approached the thick darkness where God was.
The people believe that if they go near the mountain of God they will die, this is not simply respect. It is rather a Holy Fear.
This is much the same in our spiritual life. So often we are content to just respect God. Just like a mosquito bite, we may have signs that show we have encountered God, but we really very seldom fear God anymore. Every time someone in the Bible saw God their response was fear that they might die. If not that then at least they fell down in worship of Mighty God. This is the God we are to fear. And we must fear Him if we expect Him to share with us His secrets, His very covenants.
Isaiah 33: 6 speaks of the fear of the Lord being a treasure, 6 He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the LORD is the key to this treasure. [a]
In Matthew 6:21 Jesus says that where your treasure is there your heart will be also. So you see that the thing you fear the most will dictate how you live your life. If God is what you fear most, then your life’s service will reflect that.
Don’t think that I am saying we must remain petrified by the thought of God. Rather, as we learn to Fear God we will be driven to Him. He will be our treasure and our very great reward. Our Holy Fear of God brings us so relationally close to God that we are enveloped by Him. Not unlike the family dog that is attracted to, and seeks the affection of the “alpha” person in the household.
What does it look like to fear the LORD? I came across this cool acronym to remind us. If you can remember this acronym I believe you can remember what it means to fear God. S.O.A.P.= STUDY OBSERVE and PRAISE.
1. STUDY:
Deuteronomy 17:18-20 18 When he takes the throne of his kingdom, he is to write for himself on a scroll a copy of this law, taken from that of the priests, who are Levites. 19 It is to be with him, and he is to read it all the days of his life so that he may learn to revere the LORD his God and follow carefully all the words of this law and these decrees 20 and not consider himself better than his brothers and turn from the law to the right or to the left. Then he and his descendants will reign a long time over his kingdom in Israel.
2. OBSERVE:
Deuteronomy 31:12,13 “assemble the people… that they may hear and learn and fear the Lord your God, and be careful to observe all the words of this law.”
3. PRAISE:
Psalm 22:23 23 You who fear the LORD, praise him!
All you descendants of Jacob, honor him!
Revere him, all you descendants of Israel!
Psalm 118:4 4 Let those who fear the LORD say:
"His love endures forever."
Psalm 135:20 20 O house of Levi, praise the LORD;
you who fear him, praise the LORD.
This is a perpetual motion, a circular pattern for if you come through step three you will find yourself again at step one.
STUDY-> OBSERVE-> PRAISE-> STUDY-> OBSERVE-> PRAISE-> STUDY
Old Testament, New Testament, it does not matter! As you study the things of God you realize His promises and His commands, thus you are compelled by the Spirit to put these things that you have learned into practice. As you observe these things of God you see Him as faithful to His word and always a true and righteous God, thus prompting your praise of Him. As you praise God you enter into a deeper relationship with Him and find yourself desiring more of Him thus thrusting yourself into a more arduous pursuit of Him in your study and so the cycle goes on and on.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Sign of the times!
I know I am not "cutting edge" when it comes to technology, so you can imagine how pumped I am having found the Blogger App for my IPod! I'm sure this will make it much easier for me to Blog. Sweet!!
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Blessed Assurance?...Of course!
I am sharing an excerpt from a larger paper that I wrote on eternal security. I find this to be a very interesting topic that Christians have discussed for thousands of years...and won't settle anytime soon. So while I give an opinion on eternal security, whether you are a Calvinist or an Arminian doesn't really matter. If you are in Christ, if you believe beyond a shadow of a doubt that Romans 10:9-10 is true (..."If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved..."), then you are good to go- eternally secure in the Lord! So enjoy the excerpt below and let me know if you'd like the full paper and I'll get you a copy:
Can a true believer in Jesus Christ be assured beyond certainty that he is at once saved eternally, and at the same time unable to lose his salvation? That is the crux of the question with regards to eternal security. Eternal Security seeks to answer the questions “How can I be sure I am saved?” and “Am I eternally secure in my salvation?” (Pinson, p.7)
…From a high level perspective, Moderate Calvinism traces its beliefs back to John Calvin, same as the Classical Calvinist camp. The Moderate Calvinist (referred to as “MC” going forward) hold to the Five Petaled TULIP as well, but with some fairly significant changes.
The MC perspective of Total Depravity is that it is extensive, in a corruptive sense. While man is totally depraved, the image of God is never fully removed from man. Therefore, while man cannot initiate the receipt of salvation on their own, they can receive it as given by God. (Geisler, p. 65) Man is effaced in his God image, but not utterly removed from it.
The MC perspective of Unconditional Election is that it is “…unconditional from the standpoint of the giver, but conditional from the standpoint of the receiver.” (Geisler, p. 65) The gift is totally free, unconditional from God, but must be received through faith as initiated by God in man.
The MC perspective of the Limited Atonement is that it is not limited in “extant”, because Jesus did die for all. However it is limited in it’s “application” since it is only efficacious for those who believe. (Geisler, p. 66) This is an easy concept to grasp; Christ died for the world, His sacrifice is perfect and can atone for all sins, but His atoning work can only be effective for those who have faith and believe in Him.
The MC perspective of Irresistible Grace is that the calling of God, the Grace that God sends to man, is effective only on those that are willing and that believe. (Geisler, p. 66) So through belief one can accept the gift freely given through grace. The ability to believe, have faith, and receive the gift of salvation through grace is then an indication that once is elect and therefore eternally secure.
The last petal of the TULIP is the Perseverance of the Saints. For the MC, this means that a believer will persevere to the end. (Geisler, p. 67) Or as more commonly stated, once a believer is saved that believer will always be saved…eternally secure.
…One of the most powerful points of MC is the understanding of the difference between faith and faithfulness. So while faith is necessary as a condition of receiving the gift of salvation, remaining faithful in all instances is not an indication of the election of the believer. Faith is that belief in Jesus Christ which is the condition needed for man to accept the gift, faithfulness on the other hand is the execution of that faith. So while there are times when one may waiver in faithfulness, it is the assurance of the present faith in Jesus Christ that maintains the believer eternally secure; For while we cannot gain salvation by good works, we also cannot lose salvation by bad works. (Geisler, p. 82) This is different than the Classical Calvinist which asserts that wavering in one’s faith is an indication of false assurance of salvation (Geisler, p. 66) or an Arminian which would argue that wavering in one’s faithfulness could lead to the falling away of the believer. (Geisler, p. 68)
Multiple Biblical texts support the belief of a present assurance of salvation. To briefly touch on a couple supporting texts: Phil 1:6 in which Paul encourages the believers in Philippi that it was Christ that began in a good work in them and will carry it out to the end. This clearly is evidence of the present assurance of salvation and produces confidence in the heart of the believer. A believer can rest assured that his salvation will be carried out to the end by the One who started it, Jesus Christ. (Geisler, p. 79)
Jonah 2:9 clearly teaches that Salvation is of the Lord. If it is derived from the Lord it is clearly not derived from human will. We also see in the passage from Eccl that what the Lord does is eternal, then certainly salvation which is from the Lord will also be eternal.
Lastly, and what I believe to be most convincingly, is the passage from Timothy which teaches that God cannot deny himself. 2 Tim 2:13, “If we are faithless, he will remain faithful, for He cannot deny Himself.” Here we clearly see that even when we are weak in faith, and though we may falter, God will remain firm in our salvation because he cannot deny himself. To lose our salvation God would have to deny himself. (Geisler, p. 81) This view of faithfulness vs. faith also seems to appropriate given the overall trajectory of scripture in which we see numerous individuals whose faith waivers and yet do not fall completely away: David, Abraham, Noah, John the Baptist, Peter and others. Though we may stumble, we lose the joy of our salvation as David laments in Psalm 51, but we cannot lose ultimate salvation because our faith in Jesus Christ is eternal since it is from our eternal God…
Can a true believer in Jesus Christ be assured beyond certainty that he is at once saved eternally, and at the same time unable to lose his salvation? That is the crux of the question with regards to eternal security. Eternal Security seeks to answer the questions “How can I be sure I am saved?” and “Am I eternally secure in my salvation?” (Pinson, p.7)
…From a high level perspective, Moderate Calvinism traces its beliefs back to John Calvin, same as the Classical Calvinist camp. The Moderate Calvinist (referred to as “MC” going forward) hold to the Five Petaled TULIP as well, but with some fairly significant changes.
The MC perspective of Total Depravity is that it is extensive, in a corruptive sense. While man is totally depraved, the image of God is never fully removed from man. Therefore, while man cannot initiate the receipt of salvation on their own, they can receive it as given by God. (Geisler, p. 65) Man is effaced in his God image, but not utterly removed from it.
The MC perspective of Unconditional Election is that it is “…unconditional from the standpoint of the giver, but conditional from the standpoint of the receiver.” (Geisler, p. 65) The gift is totally free, unconditional from God, but must be received through faith as initiated by God in man.
The MC perspective of the Limited Atonement is that it is not limited in “extant”, because Jesus did die for all. However it is limited in it’s “application” since it is only efficacious for those who believe. (Geisler, p. 66) This is an easy concept to grasp; Christ died for the world, His sacrifice is perfect and can atone for all sins, but His atoning work can only be effective for those who have faith and believe in Him.
The MC perspective of Irresistible Grace is that the calling of God, the Grace that God sends to man, is effective only on those that are willing and that believe. (Geisler, p. 66) So through belief one can accept the gift freely given through grace. The ability to believe, have faith, and receive the gift of salvation through grace is then an indication that once is elect and therefore eternally secure.
The last petal of the TULIP is the Perseverance of the Saints. For the MC, this means that a believer will persevere to the end. (Geisler, p. 67) Or as more commonly stated, once a believer is saved that believer will always be saved…eternally secure.
…One of the most powerful points of MC is the understanding of the difference between faith and faithfulness. So while faith is necessary as a condition of receiving the gift of salvation, remaining faithful in all instances is not an indication of the election of the believer. Faith is that belief in Jesus Christ which is the condition needed for man to accept the gift, faithfulness on the other hand is the execution of that faith. So while there are times when one may waiver in faithfulness, it is the assurance of the present faith in Jesus Christ that maintains the believer eternally secure; For while we cannot gain salvation by good works, we also cannot lose salvation by bad works. (Geisler, p. 82) This is different than the Classical Calvinist which asserts that wavering in one’s faith is an indication of false assurance of salvation (Geisler, p. 66) or an Arminian which would argue that wavering in one’s faithfulness could lead to the falling away of the believer. (Geisler, p. 68)
Multiple Biblical texts support the belief of a present assurance of salvation. To briefly touch on a couple supporting texts: Phil 1:6 in which Paul encourages the believers in Philippi that it was Christ that began in a good work in them and will carry it out to the end. This clearly is evidence of the present assurance of salvation and produces confidence in the heart of the believer. A believer can rest assured that his salvation will be carried out to the end by the One who started it, Jesus Christ. (Geisler, p. 79)
Jonah 2:9 clearly teaches that Salvation is of the Lord. If it is derived from the Lord it is clearly not derived from human will. We also see in the passage from Eccl that what the Lord does is eternal, then certainly salvation which is from the Lord will also be eternal.
Lastly, and what I believe to be most convincingly, is the passage from Timothy which teaches that God cannot deny himself. 2 Tim 2:13, “If we are faithless, he will remain faithful, for He cannot deny Himself.” Here we clearly see that even when we are weak in faith, and though we may falter, God will remain firm in our salvation because he cannot deny himself. To lose our salvation God would have to deny himself. (Geisler, p. 81) This view of faithfulness vs. faith also seems to appropriate given the overall trajectory of scripture in which we see numerous individuals whose faith waivers and yet do not fall completely away: David, Abraham, Noah, John the Baptist, Peter and others. Though we may stumble, we lose the joy of our salvation as David laments in Psalm 51, but we cannot lose ultimate salvation because our faith in Jesus Christ is eternal since it is from our eternal God…
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior
One of the most common things associated with being a Christians is the symbol of the fish. We see it everywhere: cars, bookstores, its even the name of the popular Christian radio station on our area. But I wonder how many people actually know the meaning behind the symbol? Until recently I did not, and I think it is so fascinating that I just have to share. So here is a little blurb about "The Fish":
Among early Christian symbols, that of the fish ranks probably first in importance. While the use of the fish in pagan art as a purely decorative sign is ancient and constant, the earliest reference to the symbolic fish is made by Clement of Alexandria who recommends his followers to have their seals engraved with a dove or a fish. Clement did not give any reason for this recommendation, from which it may
be safely be inferred that the meaning of both symbols was unnecessary. Indeed, from lots of sources we know that the symbolic fish was familiar to Christians long before the Clement was born in 150 AD; in such Roman monuments as the Capella Greca and the Sacrament Chapels of the catacomb of St. Callistus, the fish was depicted as a symbol in the first decades of the second century. The symbol itself may have been suggested by the miraculous multiplication of the loaves and fishes or on the shores after the Resurrection at the Sea of Galilee(John 21:9), but its popularity among Christians was due principally, it would seem, to the famous acrostic consisting of the initial letters of five Greek words forming the word for fish (Ichthys), which words briefly but clearly described the character of Christ and His claim to
the worship of believers:
"Iesous Christos Theou Yios Soter", which means
"Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior."
It is probable that this Christian formula originated in Alexandria, and was intended as a protest against the pagan apotheosis of the emperors; on a coin from Alexandria of the reign of Domitian (81-96) this emperor is styled Theou Yios (Son of God). The word Ichthys, then, as well as the representation of a fish, held for Christians a meaning of the highest significance; it was a brief profession of faith in the divinity of Christ, the Redeemer of mankind.
Believers in this mystic Ichthys were themselves : "little fishes", according to the well-known passage of Tertullian: "we, little fishes, after the image of our Ichthys, Jesus Christ, are born in the water". The association of the Ichthys with the Lord's Supper is strongly emphasized in the epitaph of Abercius, the second century Bishop of Hieropolis in Phrygia. During the Lord's Supper this idea is expressed repeatedly in the pictorial form; the food before the banqueters is usually bread and fish on two separate dishes. The peculiar significance attached to the fish in this relation is well brought out in such early drawings as the Fractio Panis scene in the
cemetery of St. Priscilla, and the fishes on the grass, in closest proximity to the baskets containing bread and wine, in the crypt of Lucina.
The fish symbol was not, however, represented exclusively with symbols
of Communion; quite frequently it is found associated with such other symbols as the dove, the anchor, and the monogram of Christ. The type of fish depicted calls for no special observation, save that, from the second century, the form of the dolphin was frequently employed. The reason for this particular selection is presumed to be the fact that, in popular culture of the time, the dolphin was regarded as friendly to man. Besides the Communion paintings of the catacombs a considerable number
of objects containing the fish-symbol are preserved in various European museums, one of the most interesting, because of the grouping of the fish with several other symbols, being a carved gem in the Kircherian Museum in Rome. On the left is a T-form anchor, with two fishes beneath the crossbar, while next in order are a T-form cross with a dove on the crossbar and a sheep at the foot, another T-cross as the mast of a ship, and the good shepherd carrying on His shoulders the strayed sheep. In
addition to these symbols the five letters of the word Ichthys are
distributed round the border.
So you see, the next time you see a bumper sticker of the fish I hope it will mean so much more to you: Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior.
Among early Christian symbols, that of the fish ranks probably first in importance. While the use of the fish in pagan art as a purely decorative sign is ancient and constant, the earliest reference to the symbolic fish is made by Clement of Alexandria who recommends his followers to have their seals engraved with a dove or a fish. Clement did not give any reason for this recommendation, from which it may
be safely be inferred that the meaning of both symbols was unnecessary. Indeed, from lots of sources we know that the symbolic fish was familiar to Christians long before the Clement was born in 150 AD; in such Roman monuments as the Capella Greca and the Sacrament Chapels of the catacomb of St. Callistus, the fish was depicted as a symbol in the first decades of the second century. The symbol itself may have been suggested by the miraculous multiplication of the loaves and fishes or on the shores after the Resurrection at the Sea of Galilee(John 21:9), but its popularity among Christians was due principally, it would seem, to the famous acrostic consisting of the initial letters of five Greek words forming the word for fish (Ichthys), which words briefly but clearly described the character of Christ and His claim to
the worship of believers:
"Iesous Christos Theou Yios Soter", which means
"Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior."
It is probable that this Christian formula originated in Alexandria, and was intended as a protest against the pagan apotheosis of the emperors; on a coin from Alexandria of the reign of Domitian (81-96) this emperor is styled Theou Yios (Son of God). The word Ichthys, then, as well as the representation of a fish, held for Christians a meaning of the highest significance; it was a brief profession of faith in the divinity of Christ, the Redeemer of mankind.
Believers in this mystic Ichthys were themselves : "little fishes", according to the well-known passage of Tertullian: "we, little fishes, after the image of our Ichthys, Jesus Christ, are born in the water". The association of the Ichthys with the Lord's Supper is strongly emphasized in the epitaph of Abercius, the second century Bishop of Hieropolis in Phrygia. During the Lord's Supper this idea is expressed repeatedly in the pictorial form; the food before the banqueters is usually bread and fish on two separate dishes. The peculiar significance attached to the fish in this relation is well brought out in such early drawings as the Fractio Panis scene in the
cemetery of St. Priscilla, and the fishes on the grass, in closest proximity to the baskets containing bread and wine, in the crypt of Lucina.
The fish symbol was not, however, represented exclusively with symbols
of Communion; quite frequently it is found associated with such other symbols as the dove, the anchor, and the monogram of Christ. The type of fish depicted calls for no special observation, save that, from the second century, the form of the dolphin was frequently employed. The reason for this particular selection is presumed to be the fact that, in popular culture of the time, the dolphin was regarded as friendly to man. Besides the Communion paintings of the catacombs a considerable number
of objects containing the fish-symbol are preserved in various European museums, one of the most interesting, because of the grouping of the fish with several other symbols, being a carved gem in the Kircherian Museum in Rome. On the left is a T-form anchor, with two fishes beneath the crossbar, while next in order are a T-form cross with a dove on the crossbar and a sheep at the foot, another T-cross as the mast of a ship, and the good shepherd carrying on His shoulders the strayed sheep. In
addition to these symbols the five letters of the word Ichthys are
distributed round the border.
So you see, the next time you see a bumper sticker of the fish I hope it will mean so much more to you: Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior.
Monday, September 5, 2011
You Just Never Know
Hebrews 13:2
2Be not forgetful to entertain strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.
I heard one of the best testimonies from a young woman last evening that I have ever heard, and it got me to thinking, you just never know when or how you can affect somebody for Christ. Let me share what I mean. This young woman's story is sadly a common one that included a broken family, bad friends and relationships, etc. The turning point in her life was a change in school. She met some new friends that cared about her and invited her to youth group. Nothing big, nothing overt, she just simply said that they invited her to youth group on a Wednesday after school and she felt like, "Sure...why not?".
She went on to say that she never could have imagined what happened. She immediately was taken in by the youth group and the Youth Pastor in particular. The Youth Pastor understood his students, he was cool and kind, he related to her and her friends, he met her at the point where she was in her life and as she said, (to paraphrase) shattered her negative image of church. Fast forward a few years later and this young woman is saved, serving in her church, on fire for the Lord and a witness to all those around her. A true blessing!
I have been thinking about her story all evening in relation both to the passage above and to Jesus Christ and his example in the Gospels. As we think about Jesus in the Gospels, he shattered the image of what church was to people- he met people where they were, he dines with them in their homes, he attended their events, he spoke to them on their level, he lived as they lived. He drew people to him and imparted his love in a manner that was relational and understanding to them. No need for watering down, just a sincerity that showed brightly the love he had for the lost. That is Jesus, that is our model, the person that we should wisely follow in our walk (Eph 5:15-17).
And the passage from Hebrews has been with me all night. When this young woman walked into that church for the first time she was extended the hand of Christian love and hospitality. That church and that Youth Pastor did not know her. They did not know what her story was or where she came from. Yet they showed her the love of Jesus Christ, and "unawares" they helped to give her a new life in Jesus Christ. This is our call.
There is an old saying that goes like this, "You may be the only Bible a person may ever read." Think about that and the impact you may have on the lives of others. And the next time you have a chance to entertain and be hospitable to someone, remember...you just never know who that might be.
2Be not forgetful to entertain strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.
I heard one of the best testimonies from a young woman last evening that I have ever heard, and it got me to thinking, you just never know when or how you can affect somebody for Christ. Let me share what I mean. This young woman's story is sadly a common one that included a broken family, bad friends and relationships, etc. The turning point in her life was a change in school. She met some new friends that cared about her and invited her to youth group. Nothing big, nothing overt, she just simply said that they invited her to youth group on a Wednesday after school and she felt like, "Sure...why not?".
She went on to say that she never could have imagined what happened. She immediately was taken in by the youth group and the Youth Pastor in particular. The Youth Pastor understood his students, he was cool and kind, he related to her and her friends, he met her at the point where she was in her life and as she said, (to paraphrase) shattered her negative image of church. Fast forward a few years later and this young woman is saved, serving in her church, on fire for the Lord and a witness to all those around her. A true blessing!
I have been thinking about her story all evening in relation both to the passage above and to Jesus Christ and his example in the Gospels. As we think about Jesus in the Gospels, he shattered the image of what church was to people- he met people where they were, he dines with them in their homes, he attended their events, he spoke to them on their level, he lived as they lived. He drew people to him and imparted his love in a manner that was relational and understanding to them. No need for watering down, just a sincerity that showed brightly the love he had for the lost. That is Jesus, that is our model, the person that we should wisely follow in our walk (Eph 5:15-17).
And the passage from Hebrews has been with me all night. When this young woman walked into that church for the first time she was extended the hand of Christian love and hospitality. That church and that Youth Pastor did not know her. They did not know what her story was or where she came from. Yet they showed her the love of Jesus Christ, and "unawares" they helped to give her a new life in Jesus Christ. This is our call.
There is an old saying that goes like this, "You may be the only Bible a person may ever read." Think about that and the impact you may have on the lives of others. And the next time you have a chance to entertain and be hospitable to someone, remember...you just never know who that might be.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Didache Part 1: The Way of Life
The Didache
The Lord's Teaching Through the Twelve Apostles to the Nations.
The Lord's Teaching Through the Twelve Apostles to the Nations.
Chapter 1. The Two Ways and the First Commandment. There are two ways, one of life and one of death, but a great difference between the two ways. The way of life, then, is this: First, you shall love God who made you; second, love your neighbor as yourself, and do not do to another what you would not want done to you. And of these sayings the teaching is this: Bless those who curse you, and pray for your enemies, and fast for those who persecute you. For what reward is there for loving those who love you? Do not the Gentiles do the same? But love those who hate you, and you shall not have an enemy. Abstain from fleshly and worldly lusts. If someone strikes your right cheek, turn to him the other also, and you shall be perfect. If someone impresses you for one mile, go with him two. If someone takes your cloak, give him also your coat. If someone takes from you what is yours, ask it not back, for indeed you are not able. Give to every one who asks you, and ask it not back; for the Father wills that to all should be given of our own blessings (free gifts). Happy is he who gives according to the commandment, for he is guiltless. Woe to him who receives; for if one receives who has need, he is guiltless; but he who receives not having need shall pay the penalty, why he received and for what. And coming into confinement, he shall be examined concerning the things which he has done, and he shall not escape from there until he pays back the last penny. And also concerning this, it has been said, Let your alms sweat in your hands, until you know to whom you should give.
Comments and thoughts:
1. This teaching is totally grounded in scripture. There are many references to Jesus’ teachings. Here are some of the ones that I noted in my cursory observation:
a. Genesis 1
b. John 14:6
c. Deuteronomy 5
d. Mark 12:28-31
e. Matthew 5-7
f. Matthew 6:3-4
2. So starts the Didache, and quickly something very interesting jumps out to me. This was written as a manual or a guide with teachings to be followed by those who believe in Jesus Christ, and the manner of practice for the early church. This introductory chapter then is simple and to the point. There are two ways: one of life (which is found in Christ Jesus) and one of death (which is found in a life apart from Christ Jesus and expounded on later in the Didache). This is what is wonderful about the Christology of the early church: Their belief was simple, either you believe and follow the way of life which is Jesus Christ, or you follow the way of death- which is everything and anything else apart from Jesus Christ.
That said, once you accept the Way of Life then comes the cathetical instruction that leads a believer in this “Way”:
a. The Shema is used and taught as reinforcement (Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength) is used
b. Teaching from the Sermon on the Mount (Mat 5-7) on love, alms, forgiveness, anxiety, etc. is reinforced as well
We can clearly see what position the early church took with regards to Jesus Christ and the Way: A simple and direct approach that clearly delineates the way of life as opposed to the way of death.
From current worldview perspective I would imagine this message would come as a shock to many people. We live in an increasingly syncretistic, post Christian culture. Secularism and pluralism make absolute statements, such as “There are two ways, one of life and one of death…”, difficult to believe for many modern believers. As the church however, we cannot run from this basic core belief; that is that Jesus Christ is the Way, the Truth and the Life and that NO ONE can go to the Father without Him (John 14:6). We need to embrace this basic truth with the full love that the Father had when he provided Jesus as an atoning sacrifice for us. We need to be bold and unashamed of the Gospel message as Paul was not ashamed in Rom 1:16. We need to take the “power of Salvation” and declare it clearly and boldly to a needy world. This was a clear and simple truth for the Church 2,000 years ago and it is no less clear today for those who believe. It is with concerted urgency that we should proclaim the Way of Life to those in our families and communities through both our words and deeds.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
The Didache: The Teachings of the 12 Apostles
Over the next several weeks I want to spend some time talking about the Didache. What is the Didache you ask, well let me give you some background.
The Didache is considered to be the oldest surviving extant piece of non-canonical literature. It is really a handbook for new Christian converts, consisting of instructions derived directly from the teachings of Jesus. The book can be divided into three sections. The first six chapters consist of Christian lessons; the next four give descriptions of the Christian ceremonies, including baptism, fasting and communion; and the last six outline the church organization.
The Didache claims to have been authored by the twelve apostles. While this cannot be positively proven, the work is most likely a direct result of the first Apostolic Council circa 50 AD (Acts 15:28). Similarities to the Apostolic Decree are apparent, and the given structure of the church is quite primitive. Also, the description of the Eucharist (bread and wine) carefully avoids mention of the "body and blood of Christ," which in the early church was regarded as one of the secret mysteries of early Christianity. Most scholars agree that the work, in its earliest form, may have circulated as early as the 60's AD, though additions and modifications may have taken place well into the third century. The work was never officially rejected by the Church, but was excluded from the canon for its lack of literary value.
The complete text of the Didache was discovered in the Codex Hierosolymitanus, though a number of fragments exist, most notably in the Oxyrhynchus Papyri. It was originally composed in Greek, probably within a small community.
What I find fascinating about the Didache is that while it is not divinely inspired scripture, it does give us today a glimpse into how the early church functioned and how the Apostles taught. It is so interesting to see how the church started to develop early on in the first century.
My comments on the sections will follow over the next few weeks. The Didache is a very short manual, and if you'd like to read it for yourself here is a link:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/didache-roberts.html
The Didache is considered to be the oldest surviving extant piece of non-canonical literature. It is really a handbook for new Christian converts, consisting of instructions derived directly from the teachings of Jesus. The book can be divided into three sections. The first six chapters consist of Christian lessons; the next four give descriptions of the Christian ceremonies, including baptism, fasting and communion; and the last six outline the church organization.
The Didache claims to have been authored by the twelve apostles. While this cannot be positively proven, the work is most likely a direct result of the first Apostolic Council circa 50 AD (Acts 15:28). Similarities to the Apostolic Decree are apparent, and the given structure of the church is quite primitive. Also, the description of the Eucharist (bread and wine) carefully avoids mention of the "body and blood of Christ," which in the early church was regarded as one of the secret mysteries of early Christianity. Most scholars agree that the work, in its earliest form, may have circulated as early as the 60's AD, though additions and modifications may have taken place well into the third century. The work was never officially rejected by the Church, but was excluded from the canon for its lack of literary value.
The complete text of the Didache was discovered in the Codex Hierosolymitanus, though a number of fragments exist, most notably in the Oxyrhynchus Papyri. It was originally composed in Greek, probably within a small community.
What I find fascinating about the Didache is that while it is not divinely inspired scripture, it does give us today a glimpse into how the early church functioned and how the Apostles taught. It is so interesting to see how the church started to develop early on in the first century.
My comments on the sections will follow over the next few weeks. The Didache is a very short manual, and if you'd like to read it for yourself here is a link:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/didache-roberts.html
Friday, August 19, 2011
A Summer of Change
I cannot believe what a whirlwind summer this has been, no wonder I haven't posted anything since April. In the last several months so much has happened:
- I finally completed my Master's in Theological Studies after 3 1/2 years
- The kids wrapped up successful baseball, softball, and Cub Scout seasons
- I have criss crossed the country from east to west several times with work
- The school levy finally passed after 12 months of volunteering and 4 failed attempts to pass
- And most exciting of all, the Lord has led me to a new opportunity to serve him at Community Bible Church in Rootstown.
Through all the work and sacrifices, the Lord has been so good. My wife and family have been a huge support and blessing, and I cannot wait to continue advancing the Kingdom through the youth ministry at CBC.
I haven't blogged in a while, but I feel the Spirit stirring within me to start it up again. We're moving forward with the Lord's lead. As Jesus said in Luke 9:62, "Jesus answered him, "No one who has put his hand to the plough, and then looks behind him, is fit for the Kingdom of God."
I've got my hand on the plow. Lead on Lord!!
Happy to be back blogging!
- I finally completed my Master's in Theological Studies after 3 1/2 years
- The kids wrapped up successful baseball, softball, and Cub Scout seasons
- I have criss crossed the country from east to west several times with work
- The school levy finally passed after 12 months of volunteering and 4 failed attempts to pass
- And most exciting of all, the Lord has led me to a new opportunity to serve him at Community Bible Church in Rootstown.
Through all the work and sacrifices, the Lord has been so good. My wife and family have been a huge support and blessing, and I cannot wait to continue advancing the Kingdom through the youth ministry at CBC.
I haven't blogged in a while, but I feel the Spirit stirring within me to start it up again. We're moving forward with the Lord's lead. As Jesus said in Luke 9:62, "Jesus answered him, "No one who has put his hand to the plough, and then looks behind him, is fit for the Kingdom of God."
I've got my hand on the plow. Lead on Lord!!
Happy to be back blogging!
Friday, April 1, 2011
My Family History, Part 3
I am so fortunate to have a couple days off, so I am taking full advantage by adding to my "Family History" series. I was going to write about my Great Grandfather Carlo and the origin of my Grandfather's nickname "Dontino", but that is going to have to wait until next time. Today, I want to share the fascinating story of my Great Grandmother Giovanna Gullo. This is my grandfather Vincenzo's mother.
I don't remember much about my great grandmother. I was about 1 year old when she died, so all I know about her comes from pictures and stories from my parents and great grandparents. I know that she was a loving woman dedicated to her family, strong of character (3 of her 12 children died tragically in their youth), and always had a positive nature. I've heard often of her love and dedication to my my great grandfather Carlo. I've heard that she often commented that if my great grandfather hadn't been crippled fairly young (he had a stroke in his 50s), they would have had 12 more children!
That said, here is the fascinating part of my great grandmother's story. Her name, as I stated above was Giovanna Gullo, and she was also known by the nickname "'A Calabrese" because her dad was from Calabria. Her parents were Gennaro Vilella and Nunziata Gullo. So note, her last name was different than her father's last name. Here is where the story gets good.
Gennaro Vilella was a very well to do property owner in Calabria. He had a rather large estate and livestock, etc. He walked into his house one evening after being away for some days and found his wife in bed with a another man. In a moment of passion, he killed both his wife and her lover. Knowing that he would be arrested for his actions, he went into hiding and escaped to Sicily. He left behind all of his wealth and property. Keep in mind, this was late 1800s in Sicily. With no modern equipment it would have made a great place to hide.
While in hiding he met Nunziata Gullo, and they had Giovanna. They were not able to officially marry because of the circumstances. Giovanna went on and married my great Grandfather Carlo (the first Maltempi) and they had 12 children.
More to come as I get time, next we'll focus on the Maltempi side. But for now, I just can't get over what an unbelievable story this is.
I don't remember much about my great grandmother. I was about 1 year old when she died, so all I know about her comes from pictures and stories from my parents and great grandparents. I know that she was a loving woman dedicated to her family, strong of character (3 of her 12 children died tragically in their youth), and always had a positive nature. I've heard often of her love and dedication to my my great grandfather Carlo. I've heard that she often commented that if my great grandfather hadn't been crippled fairly young (he had a stroke in his 50s), they would have had 12 more children!
That said, here is the fascinating part of my great grandmother's story. Her name, as I stated above was Giovanna Gullo, and she was also known by the nickname "'A Calabrese" because her dad was from Calabria. Her parents were Gennaro Vilella and Nunziata Gullo. So note, her last name was different than her father's last name. Here is where the story gets good.
Gennaro Vilella was a very well to do property owner in Calabria. He had a rather large estate and livestock, etc. He walked into his house one evening after being away for some days and found his wife in bed with a another man. In a moment of passion, he killed both his wife and her lover. Knowing that he would be arrested for his actions, he went into hiding and escaped to Sicily. He left behind all of his wealth and property. Keep in mind, this was late 1800s in Sicily. With no modern equipment it would have made a great place to hide.
While in hiding he met Nunziata Gullo, and they had Giovanna. They were not able to officially marry because of the circumstances. Giovanna went on and married my great Grandfather Carlo (the first Maltempi) and they had 12 children.
More to come as I get time, next we'll focus on the Maltempi side. But for now, I just can't get over what an unbelievable story this is.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
My Family History, Part 2
Hard to believe that I have not posted anything to my blog since December, but Lord willing when school is over (June 21st!!) my time and creative juices will be free to pursue my blogging endeavors! In the meantime, if I get a moment here or there I'll blog where I can. So, I have a moment and thought I would add a little to my family history series.
My paternal Grandmother, Anna Celona, has quite an interesting story to tell. Her father, my great grandfather Francesco came to America in 1922 with his family to find a better life. He came over and settled in Boston, MA., and found a job as a cobbler. He brought with him his wife Maria, and children Giuseppina and Domenico which were born in 1918 and 1920 respectively. He stayed in the United States 2 years, during which time my grandmother Anna and great uncle Sam were born. So, my grandmother was an American citizen from birth! In 1924, after being approached and threatened by the local organized crime boss to pay "protection" money, my grandfather Francesco moved his family back to Italy secretly and lived the rest of his life there. During the trip back, my great uncle Sam fell sick and died upon return. My grand mother says he died "from a change in climate". Not sure what that means, but could be anything from the flu to pneumonia I suppose.
My grandmother remained in Italy and married my grandfather Vincenzo in 1944. My dad, Carlo was born in 1946 and was their only child. Life in Italy post WWII was difficult. My grandfather was a fisherman, and also played minor league soccer, and my grandmother was a seamstress. But making a living was tough. So in January of 1953, they decided to move to the United States. My grand mother, being an American citizen, came over first. She had no issues emigrating to the USA given her citizenship. She came to the United States on the the famous Andrea Dora!! That famous ship, a luxury liner, sank in 1956. After making some arrangements, and getting somewhat settled in with her Uncle Steve, my grandmother made arrangements for my grandfather and dad to come to the United States in July of 1953. My dad was 7 years old.
I just find this a fascinating story. That my Nonna Anna was an American citizen from birth and yet grew up in Italy! And came back on the Andrea Dora no less!!
I'll stop here for now. Keep an eye out for the next installment.
My paternal Grandmother, Anna Celona, has quite an interesting story to tell. Her father, my great grandfather Francesco came to America in 1922 with his family to find a better life. He came over and settled in Boston, MA., and found a job as a cobbler. He brought with him his wife Maria, and children Giuseppina and Domenico which were born in 1918 and 1920 respectively. He stayed in the United States 2 years, during which time my grandmother Anna and great uncle Sam were born. So, my grandmother was an American citizen from birth! In 1924, after being approached and threatened by the local organized crime boss to pay "protection" money, my grandfather Francesco moved his family back to Italy secretly and lived the rest of his life there. During the trip back, my great uncle Sam fell sick and died upon return. My grand mother says he died "from a change in climate". Not sure what that means, but could be anything from the flu to pneumonia I suppose.
My grandmother remained in Italy and married my grandfather Vincenzo in 1944. My dad, Carlo was born in 1946 and was their only child. Life in Italy post WWII was difficult. My grandfather was a fisherman, and also played minor league soccer, and my grandmother was a seamstress. But making a living was tough. So in January of 1953, they decided to move to the United States. My grand mother, being an American citizen, came over first. She had no issues emigrating to the USA given her citizenship. She came to the United States on the the famous Andrea Dora!! That famous ship, a luxury liner, sank in 1956. After making some arrangements, and getting somewhat settled in with her Uncle Steve, my grandmother made arrangements for my grandfather and dad to come to the United States in July of 1953. My dad was 7 years old.
I just find this a fascinating story. That my Nonna Anna was an American citizen from birth and yet grew up in Italy! And came back on the Andrea Dora no less!!
I'll stop here for now. Keep an eye out for the next installment.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)