"Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the heart of the simple." (Romans 16:17,18)
Having experienced the situation first hand, the message totally hit home when I saw the exhortation. There are four types of reactions to this situation. Those who are totally oblivious of what's going on. As a result, totally gullible. Those who know something's fishy but doesn't break away. The result could be two fold, being led astray or turn the culprits around. Then there are those people who break away and do nothing about the situation. Finally, there are the people who break away but because they are totally bothered by the situation, they try all means to better it. After observing these four types of people, it's apparent that their reactions to this situation usually end up mirroring their amount of faith for God.
The members in jeopardy are those who live in total oblivion. These are the new born babes who are still nuturing through milk. They have only began to study the Words of God on the surface, and are totally gullible of whatever another member may say. In the odd times of a non-qualified speaker preaching, the 'older' members may filter through what is spoken, but the new convert will take in whatever is preached on the pulpit. They have no clue of what's the right interpretation, so they tend to favor the eloquent, those with smooth and seemingly powerful words. Therefore, it is crucial that the 'older' members take our new brother/sister step by step in coming to understand the teachings of God. That way, they will be able to discern what's right and wrong in the future. If no one takes the chance to lead them in the right direction, they may fall into the trap set by the offenders, trusting in their treacherous language. The ultimate end is the losing of yet another soul.
Some members know enough concerning the doctrines of God to know when something contradictory happens. However, these members tend to be the observers in church. They will keep in mind of whatever happens but take no sides for fear of offending anyone. They have not gone to the depth of the Words of God to take a stand for what they believe is right. The reflection is in their intentions to please the people around them instead of God. This implies a faith not deeply rooted, hence easily swayed. Although this may seem like a good way to keep peace between the opposing sides, it may not be what God expects of us. God's Words are absolute, what's right is right, what's wrong is wrong. Nothing is ever in the gray area. You are either for it or against it. The important thing for these members is to learn the importance of the absolute doctrine of God. To know that it is more important to keep peace between us and God than us and other people if it comes down to that.
A member with a faily good idea that God's doctrines cannot be swayed will stick by it. However, not all of them will make the wrong right. Many members just stay out of what's wrong and go on with what's right. Usually these members see themselves as visitors to the church and not part of the church. They will participate only when asked. Even so, they stand their ground on what's the right way to conduct a church and voice their annoyance to the people standing on smiliar grounds. The important thing is they have the doctrine down and know what's right for the church. However, everyone would clean their dirty house and not leave it for someone else to clean up. Therefore, these members need to work on looking at the church as their own.
The last group of members will fight for what's right and make sure someothing is done about it. They will not only voice the frustration but will act on it with the intention to set the crooked straight. These are the people who knows their place in church, and know that they are a part of it. They realize that unless they step up, nothing will be resolved. After all, church is composed of each individual. If no one makes an effort to make it better, how could it improve? Unless someone stands up against the wrong, the mistakes will continue to be made. It is up to these members to remind the congregation to refer back to our doctrine. They will be the ones to realize what the offenders have up their sleeves. In return, they will figure out how to pull the church back to what is pleasing to God.
It is difficult to pinpoint which kind of member we are in the church. We may fluctuate between more than one kind. However, beware to never fall in the trap of being the offender and not know it. It is important for us to examine our motives behind out actions. Why we do certain things at church and why we don't. Are we there to seek approval from the congregation or from God? Are we there to hold a political campaign or to uphold God's truth? It is a constant battle that we fight within ourselves to make sure that we are doing things for the right reasons. Hopefully, we can all ask God to search within our heart and let us see ourselves clearly.
Wednesday, April 09, 2003
Tuesday, April 08, 2003
Romans 15:30
"Now I bed you, brethren, through the Lord Jesus Christ, and through the love of the Spirit, that you strive together with me in your prayers to God for me." (Romans 15:30)
Paul has constantly asked the members to pray for him throughout his ministry. Through his request, we know that ministers are not omnipotent. They also require a boost of strength and support from fellow brethren. Hence, we should always keep the work of ministers in our prayers.
Often times, we have the inclination to believe that ministers should always be strong and never falter in their faith. The truth is, ministers are but humans, and with that comes human weaknesses. No one can go through life without some ups and downs, and ministers are not an exception either. They get drained just as we do. They get tired like any other human being. They face trials and temptations just as we do, if not more. After all, they are but a vessel of God and not God Himself.
If we put aside their salary and focus on their purpose of working, we can see that they are just like any other holy worker. I'm sure we have seen the weaknesses of the holy workers in our local churches before, and we expect that of them because they are human. Many times we forget that pastors are yet another holy worker. Just as we pray for the weaknesses of the holy workers at church, we should especially pray for the ministers of our church. After all, they are doing important work for God, but they also have to face many trials and temptations that we can only dream of. They are the role-model for the entire TJC. Therefore, if they fall, many might follow the same path. Therefore, it is crucial that each member pray for the ministers since they can affect the faith of so many, both inside and outside of church.
I'm sure we feel the lack of full-time ministers to help out in the church. Therefore, we must strive together to keep the ones we have currently. We know how devastating the fall of a minister can be, because we have witnessed the power of God working with them previously. The whole entire church can falter with such a tragedy. The once strengthened church falls because of the lack of motivation they once had. Can we blame the ministers solely because of their fall? Yes, they should have been better spiritually cultivated. But maybe if we, as a church, interceded for him, he may have pulled through the down times. After all, ministers aren't perfect.
Their job description may be to preach the gospel, but that doesn't mean the ministers alone must preach the gospel. God has instructed us to spread His gospel to the four corners of the earth. Therefore, while we are not able to travel to the four corners of the earth to preach, we can aid the work of ministry through intercession. In turn, we will have a chunk of reward for our effort.
Even Paul, the most renowned apostle requested the intersession from the members, realizing that there's no power without God. How much more should we as members realize that ministers need the abidance of God to do their job well. We must not forget to remember the work of God through the ministers in our prayers, because they are influential individuals in the church, for better or for worse.
Paul has constantly asked the members to pray for him throughout his ministry. Through his request, we know that ministers are not omnipotent. They also require a boost of strength and support from fellow brethren. Hence, we should always keep the work of ministers in our prayers.
Often times, we have the inclination to believe that ministers should always be strong and never falter in their faith. The truth is, ministers are but humans, and with that comes human weaknesses. No one can go through life without some ups and downs, and ministers are not an exception either. They get drained just as we do. They get tired like any other human being. They face trials and temptations just as we do, if not more. After all, they are but a vessel of God and not God Himself.
If we put aside their salary and focus on their purpose of working, we can see that they are just like any other holy worker. I'm sure we have seen the weaknesses of the holy workers in our local churches before, and we expect that of them because they are human. Many times we forget that pastors are yet another holy worker. Just as we pray for the weaknesses of the holy workers at church, we should especially pray for the ministers of our church. After all, they are doing important work for God, but they also have to face many trials and temptations that we can only dream of. They are the role-model for the entire TJC. Therefore, if they fall, many might follow the same path. Therefore, it is crucial that each member pray for the ministers since they can affect the faith of so many, both inside and outside of church.
I'm sure we feel the lack of full-time ministers to help out in the church. Therefore, we must strive together to keep the ones we have currently. We know how devastating the fall of a minister can be, because we have witnessed the power of God working with them previously. The whole entire church can falter with such a tragedy. The once strengthened church falls because of the lack of motivation they once had. Can we blame the ministers solely because of their fall? Yes, they should have been better spiritually cultivated. But maybe if we, as a church, interceded for him, he may have pulled through the down times. After all, ministers aren't perfect.
Their job description may be to preach the gospel, but that doesn't mean the ministers alone must preach the gospel. God has instructed us to spread His gospel to the four corners of the earth. Therefore, while we are not able to travel to the four corners of the earth to preach, we can aid the work of ministry through intercession. In turn, we will have a chunk of reward for our effort.
Even Paul, the most renowned apostle requested the intersession from the members, realizing that there's no power without God. How much more should we as members realize that ministers need the abidance of God to do their job well. We must not forget to remember the work of God through the ministers in our prayers, because they are influential individuals in the church, for better or for worse.
Romans 14:23
"...for whatever is not from faith is sin." (Romans 14:23)
What a eye-catching statement! It sounds harsh at face value. However, it makes a lot of sense after looking at it closely. This verse goes back to the fact that everything is black and white, and nothing can ever be grey. Afterall, we either end up in Heaven or burn in Hell, there's nothing in between. Since there's only two consequences, whatever we do, we either do it to advance toward Heaven or take a step back toward Hell. So, what does it mean to do everything from faith?
It's quite a tough question to answer. But the answer can be formulate by looking back to what faith comprises of. As previous discussed, the process of gaining faith includes accepting Christ, studying God's Words to better understand Him, following His commandments without question, and giving all the credits and glory to God. Therefore, to have faith means the sum of all of the above. Ultimately, everything we do must be within the commandments of God and for the glory of God. Jesus told us the greatest commandment is to 'love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself' (Mt 22:37,39). If we do everything under those two commandments, then we are sure to steer clear of sinning.
Part of keeping the commandments it to glorify God. In anything we do, we must keep the result in mind. Is the result going to cause bad opinion of God? Why is God not glorified through the stumbling of our brethren because of our eating? As Christians, we are expected by non-believers to uphold the principles of God. We are to be ethical, loving, holy, etc...If one of us stumbles, then it is to the devastation of the whole group, since we are viewed as a collective body. Through one person's fall, the whole church can be criticized for being hypocrites. On the other hand, we are breaking the 'love your neighbors as yourself' commandment for not caring for our brethren's soul. Either way, if we fail to keep the commandments of God for the glory of God, then we are prone to sin.
In everything, we must think before performing, analyze the reason we do it for. Is it for our benefit only? Or is it really for the benefit of God? What are we studying for? What are we trying to achieve at work for? Who are we earning money for? Why do we make so many friends? Why do we fast and pray so many meals at NYTS? Why do we sing in the choir? Why are we doing holy work? The list can go on and on. Ultimately, the questions is: What do we live for?
What a eye-catching statement! It sounds harsh at face value. However, it makes a lot of sense after looking at it closely. This verse goes back to the fact that everything is black and white, and nothing can ever be grey. Afterall, we either end up in Heaven or burn in Hell, there's nothing in between. Since there's only two consequences, whatever we do, we either do it to advance toward Heaven or take a step back toward Hell. So, what does it mean to do everything from faith?
It's quite a tough question to answer. But the answer can be formulate by looking back to what faith comprises of. As previous discussed, the process of gaining faith includes accepting Christ, studying God's Words to better understand Him, following His commandments without question, and giving all the credits and glory to God. Therefore, to have faith means the sum of all of the above. Ultimately, everything we do must be within the commandments of God and for the glory of God. Jesus told us the greatest commandment is to 'love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself' (Mt 22:37,39). If we do everything under those two commandments, then we are sure to steer clear of sinning.
Part of keeping the commandments it to glorify God. In anything we do, we must keep the result in mind. Is the result going to cause bad opinion of God? Why is God not glorified through the stumbling of our brethren because of our eating? As Christians, we are expected by non-believers to uphold the principles of God. We are to be ethical, loving, holy, etc...If one of us stumbles, then it is to the devastation of the whole group, since we are viewed as a collective body. Through one person's fall, the whole church can be criticized for being hypocrites. On the other hand, we are breaking the 'love your neighbors as yourself' commandment for not caring for our brethren's soul. Either way, if we fail to keep the commandments of God for the glory of God, then we are prone to sin.
In everything, we must think before performing, analyze the reason we do it for. Is it for our benefit only? Or is it really for the benefit of God? What are we studying for? What are we trying to achieve at work for? Who are we earning money for? Why do we make so many friends? Why do we fast and pray so many meals at NYTS? Why do we sing in the choir? Why are we doing holy work? The list can go on and on. Ultimately, the questions is: What do we live for?
Sunday, April 06, 2003
Romans 13:1
"Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God." (Romans 13:1)
I find this verse fitting in a time like this. As many war-protesters crowd the streets, this verse shines some light into what our role should be. God created all men, and God has authority over all men. Whether it is Saddam Hussein or George W. Bush, God has the authority to determine the outcome of their actions. Jesus Christ sets an example for us to 'subject to the governing authorities' (13:1) when He paid taxes to Caesar. If Jesus submitted to the government, then why should we oppose our's? Ultimately, the end is determined by God. The punishment and the sparing of lives are all up to God. He is the Creator, men are merely His creatures. Who are we to question the Creator? 'Will the thing formed say to him who formed it, "Why have you made me like this"' (9:20)? Therefore, it is not up to us to worry about the actions the government takes as long as it does not contradict the teachings of God.
Then the ever contraversial issue of capital punishment may come up. Should we also support our government for such a cruel action? In the Old Testament and New Testament, capital punishment is often used on the offender. Here, the author clarifies that the ruler 'is God's minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil' (13:4). Therefore, from this verse we can understand that the governing powers are God's ministers. They are to punish those who do evil. The rest is up to God to worry about. Our part is simply to 'do what is good' because 'rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil' (3).
You may then ask, 'Why is there such people as Saddam Hussein in the world?" Sometimes things in life happen for a reason. Even while Jesus prayed for his disciples he said, 'and none of them is lost except the son of perdition, that the Scripture might be fulfilled' (Jn 17:12). There will always be the bad guy even from the bunch of people closest to Jesus. Jesus submitted to the authority when Judas pointed Him out to be arrested. Everything is under the plan of God. If we study deeper into the prophesies in the Bible, we may come to see that Saddam Hussein is part of the Scriptures to be fulfilled. This may serve as a sign for us that 'our salvation is nearer than when we first believed' (Rm 13:11) just as Judah's betrayal marked the crucifixion of Jesus. All in all, it is not up to us to worry about the actions of our governing powers. Our role is to do what is good and leave what is evil alone.
To bring this issue back home, we can apply this to the 'politics' in church as well. Our church has set up a way to organize the many things that go on. Sometimes the trend of this world may cause us to despise the way church organizes things. We may think that the church is too traditional or not open-minded and try to come up with new ways to organize the church. I have seen that happen and the only result is chaos. When we try to bring worldy values and worldy ways into church, something is bound to go wrong. There is a reason why the early churches decided to do things a certain way. There's a reason for a certain way of organization. Why is it that we have to do it our own way when the way has been practiced since our church was established? Isn't there a 'governing authority' in our church? The church has organized a way to decide things. Why do we go against it and refuse to follow simple directions? Isn't this also a way of defying the 'governing authority'?
I remember once my dad said, 'If you don't want to follow the ways of TJC, then you might as well split from TJC and be another church." Even though my dad isn't a member of TJC, he understands the concepts. If you were to work for a company, but don't follow the protocols of the company, then why should the company keep you? It's the same with TJC. If we refuse to follow the ways established through God, there's no reason for God to keep us around either.
I find this verse fitting in a time like this. As many war-protesters crowd the streets, this verse shines some light into what our role should be. God created all men, and God has authority over all men. Whether it is Saddam Hussein or George W. Bush, God has the authority to determine the outcome of their actions. Jesus Christ sets an example for us to 'subject to the governing authorities' (13:1) when He paid taxes to Caesar. If Jesus submitted to the government, then why should we oppose our's? Ultimately, the end is determined by God. The punishment and the sparing of lives are all up to God. He is the Creator, men are merely His creatures. Who are we to question the Creator? 'Will the thing formed say to him who formed it, "Why have you made me like this"' (9:20)? Therefore, it is not up to us to worry about the actions the government takes as long as it does not contradict the teachings of God.
Then the ever contraversial issue of capital punishment may come up. Should we also support our government for such a cruel action? In the Old Testament and New Testament, capital punishment is often used on the offender. Here, the author clarifies that the ruler 'is God's minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil' (13:4). Therefore, from this verse we can understand that the governing powers are God's ministers. They are to punish those who do evil. The rest is up to God to worry about. Our part is simply to 'do what is good' because 'rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil' (3).
You may then ask, 'Why is there such people as Saddam Hussein in the world?" Sometimes things in life happen for a reason. Even while Jesus prayed for his disciples he said, 'and none of them is lost except the son of perdition, that the Scripture might be fulfilled' (Jn 17:12). There will always be the bad guy even from the bunch of people closest to Jesus. Jesus submitted to the authority when Judas pointed Him out to be arrested. Everything is under the plan of God. If we study deeper into the prophesies in the Bible, we may come to see that Saddam Hussein is part of the Scriptures to be fulfilled. This may serve as a sign for us that 'our salvation is nearer than when we first believed' (Rm 13:11) just as Judah's betrayal marked the crucifixion of Jesus. All in all, it is not up to us to worry about the actions of our governing powers. Our role is to do what is good and leave what is evil alone.
To bring this issue back home, we can apply this to the 'politics' in church as well. Our church has set up a way to organize the many things that go on. Sometimes the trend of this world may cause us to despise the way church organizes things. We may think that the church is too traditional or not open-minded and try to come up with new ways to organize the church. I have seen that happen and the only result is chaos. When we try to bring worldy values and worldy ways into church, something is bound to go wrong. There is a reason why the early churches decided to do things a certain way. There's a reason for a certain way of organization. Why is it that we have to do it our own way when the way has been practiced since our church was established? Isn't there a 'governing authority' in our church? The church has organized a way to decide things. Why do we go against it and refuse to follow simple directions? Isn't this also a way of defying the 'governing authority'?
I remember once my dad said, 'If you don't want to follow the ways of TJC, then you might as well split from TJC and be another church." Even though my dad isn't a member of TJC, he understands the concepts. If you were to work for a company, but don't follow the protocols of the company, then why should the company keep you? It's the same with TJC. If we refuse to follow the ways established through God, there's no reason for God to keep us around either.
Romans 12:6
"Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given us, let us use them..." (Romans 12:6)
Warning!!! Semi-personal
This verse particularly sticks out because I've often denied the gifts God has given to me just because I haven't quite figured out what my gifts are. This verse implied that God has given each of us a gift, and no one is left without a gift because we are 'individually members of one another' (12:5) in the body of Christ. Therefore, to deny having any gifts would be to deny God's justice. I often ponder what I can do for God, what are my gifts that I can exercise for God's purpose. Many times I end up with a blank sheet of paper. There are many things I can do, but I haven't found anything that I really excel at. It's like the saying, 'A jack of all trades, but a master of none.' Sometimes it bothers me that there's nothing that I can do really well, and it doesn't help when people compare you with others.
I have been asked many times, "Why don't you translate like your sister?" Everytime someone asks me that, the parable of the talents comes to my mind. 'And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability' (Mt. 25:15). I just answer to myself, 'because I have one talent' and it's not in translation. Maybe it's fear, maybe it's the lack of practice, but translation definitely hasn't shined as a gift given to me. However, I haven't given up on trying to find the gifts that belong to me. I just find it awkward why people would ask me that question, including pastors.
I've been told by my mom through her personal experience that you can ask God for gifts. I've also come to realize that gifts don't always come naturally. Sometimes you have to work at something to get better and better. If you work hard and ask God to add on to your effort in order to work for Him, He will listen to our request. Even though we might not have been born with certain gifts, it doesn't mean that they are not obtainable. It's true that something may come a lot easier to someone born with the gift. However, someone else who works hard to obtain that same talent may come out on top. Therefore, if we see a need of a certain talent at church, and pray to God to help us so that we may work for Him, I'm sure God will answer our sincere prayers. Afterall, He has answered my mom's prayer.
My mom has already pre-warned me that she's going to train me to translate just as she did my sister. I'm a little overwhelmed by it because I know I'm not fast with words. However I realize there is a need at church, so I pray that God may be with me to take away that fear and the feeling of being not good enough; because, doubting ourselves equates doubting the power of God. I pray that I can be a good vessel for God without being proud. Through observation, I've come to see the pride in people when they realize their many talents. It has come to take a toll on the growth of the entire church. I pray that will never happen to us when we serve God. We should always keep in mind that we are blessed with gifts to work together in accomplishing different things in the body of Christ. The Bible Study Leader should not belittle the dish washers. Each member of the body has its purpose. Hopefully we can all find our gifts and use them to serve God righteously.
Warning!!! Semi-personal
This verse particularly sticks out because I've often denied the gifts God has given to me just because I haven't quite figured out what my gifts are. This verse implied that God has given each of us a gift, and no one is left without a gift because we are 'individually members of one another' (12:5) in the body of Christ. Therefore, to deny having any gifts would be to deny God's justice. I often ponder what I can do for God, what are my gifts that I can exercise for God's purpose. Many times I end up with a blank sheet of paper. There are many things I can do, but I haven't found anything that I really excel at. It's like the saying, 'A jack of all trades, but a master of none.' Sometimes it bothers me that there's nothing that I can do really well, and it doesn't help when people compare you with others.
I have been asked many times, "Why don't you translate like your sister?" Everytime someone asks me that, the parable of the talents comes to my mind. 'And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability' (Mt. 25:15). I just answer to myself, 'because I have one talent' and it's not in translation. Maybe it's fear, maybe it's the lack of practice, but translation definitely hasn't shined as a gift given to me. However, I haven't given up on trying to find the gifts that belong to me. I just find it awkward why people would ask me that question, including pastors.
I've been told by my mom through her personal experience that you can ask God for gifts. I've also come to realize that gifts don't always come naturally. Sometimes you have to work at something to get better and better. If you work hard and ask God to add on to your effort in order to work for Him, He will listen to our request. Even though we might not have been born with certain gifts, it doesn't mean that they are not obtainable. It's true that something may come a lot easier to someone born with the gift. However, someone else who works hard to obtain that same talent may come out on top. Therefore, if we see a need of a certain talent at church, and pray to God to help us so that we may work for Him, I'm sure God will answer our sincere prayers. Afterall, He has answered my mom's prayer.
My mom has already pre-warned me that she's going to train me to translate just as she did my sister. I'm a little overwhelmed by it because I know I'm not fast with words. However I realize there is a need at church, so I pray that God may be with me to take away that fear and the feeling of being not good enough; because, doubting ourselves equates doubting the power of God. I pray that I can be a good vessel for God without being proud. Through observation, I've come to see the pride in people when they realize their many talents. It has come to take a toll on the growth of the entire church. I pray that will never happen to us when we serve God. We should always keep in mind that we are blessed with gifts to work together in accomplishing different things in the body of Christ. The Bible Study Leader should not belittle the dish washers. Each member of the body has its purpose. Hopefully we can all find our gifts and use them to serve God righteously.
Thursday, April 03, 2003
Romans 11:20-22
"Because of unbelief they were broken off, and you stand by faith. Do not be haughty, but fear. For if God did not spare the natural branches, He may not spare you either. Therefore consider the goodness and severity of God: on those who fell, severity; but toward you, goodness, if you continue in His goodness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off." (Romans 11:20-22)
It's so easy to take advantage of God if we don't constantly keep in mind how lucky we are to be the 'chosen ones'. But if we read closer, it is through the downfall of God's original chosen people that we were able to 'stand by faith'. We received faith under the mercy of God, not because we were better than any other human beings out there. We were actually pitied by God, and the Israelites were casted away for our reconciliation. We are not of the firstfruit; the firstfruit, its root, and branches still lie with the Israelites. We were only 'grafted in among [the branches], and with them became a partaker of the root and fatness of the olive tree' (11:17). So in plain terms, we are the ones on life-support. If at any moment God decides to cut that life-support, we are as good as the abandoned branches without a root for support.
Hence, the author reminds us to 'not be haughty, but fear' (20). Who are we that God should spare us if He 'did not [even] spare the natural branches' (21)? God is fair in His severity and His goodness. The Israelites were rejected because they fell. God dealt with them as they deserved, in severity. Therefore, too keep ourselves grafted, we must 'continue in His goodness' (22). Afterall, we are the ones feeding off of the root from the firstfruit. If the Israelites, being the original chosen people of God were cut off; how much more severe will God deal with us if we were to stray away from His goodness.
Now you may say, 'God has not cast away His people whom He foreknew' (2). Yes, the cast away is temperary. 'Israel will be saved' (26) and God's chosen people will again turn to Him. Does that mean if we were cast away, it would also be temporary? We know of the restoration of Israel becaus it has been prophesied in the Bible time and again. Does the Bible in any way prophesied that the Gentiles will be restored if they were to fall? We are already under the grace of God to be able to feed off of the original root. Do we dare to ask any more from God? 'For if God did not spare the natural branches, He may not spare [us] either' (21).
Instead of boasting of what we received from God and be haughty about what we possess, we should be thankful that we were chosen. The best way to repay God for the chance He gave us to graft into the original root is to remember His love. We should constantly remind ourselves not to take advantage of His mercy but always remember that we are chosen because of Him. That we only had a chance at life because of Him. We were the branches of a wild olive tree, never able to be a part of the original root on our own. The chance to be 'a partaker of the root' (17) is a gift given to us. We must never trample over that gift.
It's so easy to take advantage of God if we don't constantly keep in mind how lucky we are to be the 'chosen ones'. But if we read closer, it is through the downfall of God's original chosen people that we were able to 'stand by faith'. We received faith under the mercy of God, not because we were better than any other human beings out there. We were actually pitied by God, and the Israelites were casted away for our reconciliation. We are not of the firstfruit; the firstfruit, its root, and branches still lie with the Israelites. We were only 'grafted in among [the branches], and with them became a partaker of the root and fatness of the olive tree' (11:17). So in plain terms, we are the ones on life-support. If at any moment God decides to cut that life-support, we are as good as the abandoned branches without a root for support.
Hence, the author reminds us to 'not be haughty, but fear' (20). Who are we that God should spare us if He 'did not [even] spare the natural branches' (21)? God is fair in His severity and His goodness. The Israelites were rejected because they fell. God dealt with them as they deserved, in severity. Therefore, too keep ourselves grafted, we must 'continue in His goodness' (22). Afterall, we are the ones feeding off of the root from the firstfruit. If the Israelites, being the original chosen people of God were cut off; how much more severe will God deal with us if we were to stray away from His goodness.
Now you may say, 'God has not cast away His people whom He foreknew' (2). Yes, the cast away is temperary. 'Israel will be saved' (26) and God's chosen people will again turn to Him. Does that mean if we were cast away, it would also be temporary? We know of the restoration of Israel becaus it has been prophesied in the Bible time and again. Does the Bible in any way prophesied that the Gentiles will be restored if they were to fall? We are already under the grace of God to be able to feed off of the original root. Do we dare to ask any more from God? 'For if God did not spare the natural branches, He may not spare [us] either' (21).
Instead of boasting of what we received from God and be haughty about what we possess, we should be thankful that we were chosen. The best way to repay God for the chance He gave us to graft into the original root is to remember His love. We should constantly remind ourselves not to take advantage of His mercy but always remember that we are chosen because of Him. That we only had a chance at life because of Him. We were the branches of a wild olive tree, never able to be a part of the original root on our own. The chance to be 'a partaker of the root' (17) is a gift given to us. We must never trample over that gift.
Romans 10:1
"Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is that they may be saved." (Romans 10:1)
What a touching statement of intercession. The spirit of intercession should follow us wherever we go. Even though Israel rejected the true gospel, the author of Romans never gave up on them. He stills prays to God for their Salvation. This serves as a reminder for ourselves to notice our surrounding, to intercede for those not so wonderful members around us.
Usually our notion of dealing with someone not so 'churchy' is to keep a mental distance. We may be nice to them on the surface, but once we turn our backs, they may come up as a topic of discussion. How lazy someone is at church, how they never help out with anything and only knows how to complain. "Who does he think he is always preaching to others, but never does what he preaches." "Those sisters, all they can do is gossip, gossip, and gossip"....and the criticisms go on.
How often do we hear 'we should pray for them' after those criticisms? Doesn't it become gossip if we had no intent of trying to help them? When we say we should pray for the church to grow, do we never think that the church is composed of each individual member? Therefore, for the church to progress, each one of us must also improve. Those sitting in our surrounding pews may not be model Christians just as we sometime fail to be, but they are part of the Body of Christ just as we are. For the Body of Christ to be fully functional, each member must do its part. If one part fails, the whole Body cannot function properly. Therefore, the failure of one member is the imperfection of the whole Body. For the Body to be perfect again, that imperfection must be made perfect.
There are a few ways of potentially perfecting the Body...or destroying it further. One would be to wait for the member to realize its own imperfection while the others grumble over the fault of that member. This would lead to a disconcerted bunch of unhappy members, which would bring about more imperfect members. Another way would be to patiently wait for the imperfect member to perfect itself. The best way would be for all the other members to help the imperfect member back on its feet.
If the first way were to be taken, the result would be a totally dysfunctional Body. The imperfection will spread from one to the next because of the criticism each has on another. Ultimately, nothing will be resolved and the Body will be worse off than before. If the other members were to wait for the imperfect member to realize its hindrance on the whole Body, how long would they have to wait? What if the imperfect member never thought it was imperfect? The problem may never be resolved. If all the members would pray for that one imperfect member, the result will be picture perfect. The imperfect member won't have to receive harsh criticisms from its fellow members. It wouldn't have to live in total oblivion of its imperfection. The whole Body would be perfected in no time, because 'where two or three are gathered together in [God's] name, [He is] there in the midst of them' (Mt. 18:20). God will hear our prayers because our goal is to be the perfect Body of Christ for His glory.
Instead of criticisms, we should strive to pray for those who are lacking. Instead of thinking ill of the proud, we should pray for God's mercy to shower upon them. Instead of labeling someone a 'non-zealous member', we should pray for their return to God's calling. Instead of spreading the family problems of others, we should show our love toward them and pray for God to comfort their hearts. Instead of calling someone incapable, we should ask God to strengthen them. Instead of giving up on someone, we should pray for God's love to touch their spirit. We are but one member of the Body of Christ, but if we start to do our part in intercession, others will follow. Just as the bad virus spreads, the love we have for the souls of others will also spread, for the better.
What a touching statement of intercession. The spirit of intercession should follow us wherever we go. Even though Israel rejected the true gospel, the author of Romans never gave up on them. He stills prays to God for their Salvation. This serves as a reminder for ourselves to notice our surrounding, to intercede for those not so wonderful members around us.
Usually our notion of dealing with someone not so 'churchy' is to keep a mental distance. We may be nice to them on the surface, but once we turn our backs, they may come up as a topic of discussion. How lazy someone is at church, how they never help out with anything and only knows how to complain. "Who does he think he is always preaching to others, but never does what he preaches." "Those sisters, all they can do is gossip, gossip, and gossip"....and the criticisms go on.
How often do we hear 'we should pray for them' after those criticisms? Doesn't it become gossip if we had no intent of trying to help them? When we say we should pray for the church to grow, do we never think that the church is composed of each individual member? Therefore, for the church to progress, each one of us must also improve. Those sitting in our surrounding pews may not be model Christians just as we sometime fail to be, but they are part of the Body of Christ just as we are. For the Body of Christ to be fully functional, each member must do its part. If one part fails, the whole Body cannot function properly. Therefore, the failure of one member is the imperfection of the whole Body. For the Body to be perfect again, that imperfection must be made perfect.
There are a few ways of potentially perfecting the Body...or destroying it further. One would be to wait for the member to realize its own imperfection while the others grumble over the fault of that member. This would lead to a disconcerted bunch of unhappy members, which would bring about more imperfect members. Another way would be to patiently wait for the imperfect member to perfect itself. The best way would be for all the other members to help the imperfect member back on its feet.
If the first way were to be taken, the result would be a totally dysfunctional Body. The imperfection will spread from one to the next because of the criticism each has on another. Ultimately, nothing will be resolved and the Body will be worse off than before. If the other members were to wait for the imperfect member to realize its hindrance on the whole Body, how long would they have to wait? What if the imperfect member never thought it was imperfect? The problem may never be resolved. If all the members would pray for that one imperfect member, the result will be picture perfect. The imperfect member won't have to receive harsh criticisms from its fellow members. It wouldn't have to live in total oblivion of its imperfection. The whole Body would be perfected in no time, because 'where two or three are gathered together in [God's] name, [He is] there in the midst of them' (Mt. 18:20). God will hear our prayers because our goal is to be the perfect Body of Christ for His glory.
Instead of criticisms, we should strive to pray for those who are lacking. Instead of thinking ill of the proud, we should pray for God's mercy to shower upon them. Instead of labeling someone a 'non-zealous member', we should pray for their return to God's calling. Instead of spreading the family problems of others, we should show our love toward them and pray for God to comfort their hearts. Instead of calling someone incapable, we should ask God to strengthen them. Instead of giving up on someone, we should pray for God's love to touch their spirit. We are but one member of the Body of Christ, but if we start to do our part in intercession, others will follow. Just as the bad virus spreads, the love we have for the souls of others will also spread, for the better.
Wednesday, April 02, 2003
Romans 9:29
"Unless the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed, We would have become like Sodom, And we would have been made like Gomorrah." (Romans 9:29)
We often forget that we are under the mercy of God. If we were to remember it constantly, then there would be no problems of pride. After all, everything is possible because God had it that way. Is there something that we possess which is not given by God? If the answer is no, then where's all the boasting coming from? God gave us life and everything that composes it because He loves us. Only becuase He loves us did he leave us that 'seed'.
Before the 'seed' was sent to us, the sinners were destroyed brutally by the wrath of God. The earth destroyed by the flood because of all the weakedness that filled the entire land (Gen 6). Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed by a rain of brimstone and fire because of their depravity (Gen 19). Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron were consumed by the profane fire they offered without the Lord's command (Lev 10). The adulterer and adulteress were put to death (Lev 20). The basphemers of the name of the Lord were stoned to death (Lev 24). Achan was stoned and burned along with his family because he took the accursed thing (Joshua 7). The list goes on...
The point is, we are living under the grace of God while our ancestors lived in the wrath of God. The 'seed', that is Jesus Christ, was sent to us for the redemption of our iniquities. It gave us a chance at life when our end would've been death if Christ hasn't been sacrificed for our sake. Therefore, what have we to be proud of? We were saved from immediate death because someone died for us. Who can claim their credits when we would've been stoned to death without the grace of God? God said to Moses, "I will have mercy on whomever I will have mercy" (Rm 9:15). We have been the blessed ones to receive that mercy from God. Therefore, we must remember to give all the glory unto God and not to ourselves.
If we can remember that we are nothing without Christ, then we will remember to give all the credits to God for His glory. 'In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you' (1 Thess 5:18).
We often forget that we are under the mercy of God. If we were to remember it constantly, then there would be no problems of pride. After all, everything is possible because God had it that way. Is there something that we possess which is not given by God? If the answer is no, then where's all the boasting coming from? God gave us life and everything that composes it because He loves us. Only becuase He loves us did he leave us that 'seed'.
Before the 'seed' was sent to us, the sinners were destroyed brutally by the wrath of God. The earth destroyed by the flood because of all the weakedness that filled the entire land (Gen 6). Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed by a rain of brimstone and fire because of their depravity (Gen 19). Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron were consumed by the profane fire they offered without the Lord's command (Lev 10). The adulterer and adulteress were put to death (Lev 20). The basphemers of the name of the Lord were stoned to death (Lev 24). Achan was stoned and burned along with his family because he took the accursed thing (Joshua 7). The list goes on...
The point is, we are living under the grace of God while our ancestors lived in the wrath of God. The 'seed', that is Jesus Christ, was sent to us for the redemption of our iniquities. It gave us a chance at life when our end would've been death if Christ hasn't been sacrificed for our sake. Therefore, what have we to be proud of? We were saved from immediate death because someone died for us. Who can claim their credits when we would've been stoned to death without the grace of God? God said to Moses, "I will have mercy on whomever I will have mercy" (Rm 9:15). We have been the blessed ones to receive that mercy from God. Therefore, we must remember to give all the glory unto God and not to ourselves.
If we can remember that we are nothing without Christ, then we will remember to give all the credits to God for His glory. 'In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you' (1 Thess 5:18).
Tuesday, April 01, 2003
"For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death...Therefore, brethren, we are debtors--not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live." (Romans 8:2, 12, 13)
As a repeating theme in Romans, 'Jesus has made [us] free from the law of sin and death' (8:2). However, can that verse stand alone? Just as we have previously discussed that unless we take the initiative to accept faith, we will not be justified. These verses remind us that even after taking initiative to accept faith, we are not guaranteed a sure justification. It is only after living according to the Spirit that we can 'put to death the deeds of the body' (13).
Even though we may possess the Spirit of God, it doesn't mean that we actually 'live according to the Spirit' (5). Having the Spirit dwell in us will 'give life to [our] mortal bodies' (11), but it doesn't guarantee us eternal life. It only give us a chance at true life. The concept can be likened to being accepted into a college of our choice, we are not guaranteed to graduated unless we do our part and study. Only if we set our minds to study and pass the classes are we in contention of the degree we seek after. 'Those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit' (5). Therefore, only if we set our minds on the things of the Spirit are we able to overcome our fleshly desires and walk on the path God has opened for us. Only then, do we have a chance at Salvation.
The fountain of Salvation has indeed been opened. It is for us to take freely. However, it doesn't come without effort on our part. God has done His part by sending His only begotten Son to sacrifice for our iniquities. Now is it up to us to finish up the journey and obtain that 'certificate' of Salvation.
As a repeating theme in Romans, 'Jesus has made [us] free from the law of sin and death' (8:2). However, can that verse stand alone? Just as we have previously discussed that unless we take the initiative to accept faith, we will not be justified. These verses remind us that even after taking initiative to accept faith, we are not guaranteed a sure justification. It is only after living according to the Spirit that we can 'put to death the deeds of the body' (13).
Even though we may possess the Spirit of God, it doesn't mean that we actually 'live according to the Spirit' (5). Having the Spirit dwell in us will 'give life to [our] mortal bodies' (11), but it doesn't guarantee us eternal life. It only give us a chance at true life. The concept can be likened to being accepted into a college of our choice, we are not guaranteed to graduated unless we do our part and study. Only if we set our minds to study and pass the classes are we in contention of the degree we seek after. 'Those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit' (5). Therefore, only if we set our minds on the things of the Spirit are we able to overcome our fleshly desires and walk on the path God has opened for us. Only then, do we have a chance at Salvation.
The fountain of Salvation has indeed been opened. It is for us to take freely. However, it doesn't come without effort on our part. God has done His part by sending His only begotten Son to sacrifice for our iniquities. Now is it up to us to finish up the journey and obtain that 'certificate' of Salvation.
"For I delight in the law(1) of God according to the inward man. But I see another law(2) in my members, warring against the law(1) of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law(2) of sin which is in my members." (Romans 7:22,23)
It seems as if Paul is playing word games with us by the use of the word 'law' in almost the entire book of Romans. It's amazing how one single word can mean totally opposite things. Hence, we must be very careful in interpreting what we read. Otherwise, a concept that totally makes sense may seem conflicting. This verse would pose for a perfect example.
Excuse my labeling of the word 'law', but I did it to help myself out in keeping the meaning of the word straight. There is obviously two meanings to the word 'law' mentioned in this verse. 'Law(1)' would be the law we are to keep and supposed to keep. 'Law(2)' is the law within our carnal bodies that disrupts us from keeping 'law(1)'. We know in our mind that we must keep the law of God, however our flesh is weak. It is only with Jesus Christ that we are able to 'serve the law of God' (7:25).
If we know what is right but don't do it, then sin is the culprit. 'For when we were in the flesh, the passions of sins which were aroused by the law were at work in our members to bear fruit to death' (5). The only one able to overcome sin is Jesus, since He already taken up all the sin we have upon His shoulders. Therefore, after having died with Christ, 'we should serve in the newness of the Spirit' (6). Through the strenght of the Holy Spirit, we have the power to renew ourselves in order to fight with the law in our members. With our determination we can defeat the carnal weakness that taunts us day in and day out. Even if our flesh is weak, '[we] can do all things through Christ who strengthens [us]' (Phil 4:13).
It seems as if Paul is playing word games with us by the use of the word 'law' in almost the entire book of Romans. It's amazing how one single word can mean totally opposite things. Hence, we must be very careful in interpreting what we read. Otherwise, a concept that totally makes sense may seem conflicting. This verse would pose for a perfect example.
Excuse my labeling of the word 'law', but I did it to help myself out in keeping the meaning of the word straight. There is obviously two meanings to the word 'law' mentioned in this verse. 'Law(1)' would be the law we are to keep and supposed to keep. 'Law(2)' is the law within our carnal bodies that disrupts us from keeping 'law(1)'. We know in our mind that we must keep the law of God, however our flesh is weak. It is only with Jesus Christ that we are able to 'serve the law of God' (7:25).
If we know what is right but don't do it, then sin is the culprit. 'For when we were in the flesh, the passions of sins which were aroused by the law were at work in our members to bear fruit to death' (5). The only one able to overcome sin is Jesus, since He already taken up all the sin we have upon His shoulders. Therefore, after having died with Christ, 'we should serve in the newness of the Spirit' (6). Through the strenght of the Holy Spirit, we have the power to renew ourselves in order to fight with the law in our members. With our determination we can defeat the carnal weakness that taunts us day in and day out. Even if our flesh is weak, '[we] can do all things through Christ who strengthens [us]' (Phil 4:13).
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