The Travels Of Jesus

 

Jesus answered and said to him, "If anyone should be loving Me, he will be keeping My word, and My Father will be loving him, and we shall be coming to him and making our abode with Him.

Johns Account 14: 23, Concordant New Testament 

It's one of the most repeated phrases in all of Christianity.  Jesus will come again.  The popular held belief is that Christ Jesus will return to the earth and gather all believers unto Him, whereupon He will lead us all into our final destination in the Fathers heaven.  That's a good story if you can sell it, and the mainstream church theology has done a good job of doing jus that.  The promise which Jesus gave of His return has been hijacked by mainstream Christian theology to promote the teaching of our future home in heaven.  And so we wait with bated breath for the return of the Son to fulfill His promise.  But I ran into an issue with this thinking earlier this week.  While contemplating the proclaimed return of the Christ, I ran into something interesting.  Doing a simple Google search, I found that Jesus has ALREADY returned a total of 10-12 times, ten times as documented by His followers in the scriptures.  So, when the pastor proclaims that Jesus will return for His own once again, which return is He referring to?  We know from the scriptures that Jesus has said that He will be with us "Till the conclusion of the eon!" {Matthews Account 28:20}.  The author of Hebrews proclaims that Jesus will be seen a second time "By those awaiting Him, apart from sin, for salvation, through faith" {To the Hebrews 9:28}.  Is this the oft heralded "Second coming" of Jesus?  If so, then He has already come and the mainstream church has missed the boat.  Think about it, Jesus will (or has) come a second time to be seen by those who are waiting for Him for salvation through faith.  Are you saved?  How is it that you are sure of your salvation?  We are sure of our salvation through Christ Jesus through our faith in Him!  We are assured of our salvation knowing that Jesus gave Himself on the cross for us {Paul to the Corinthians (2) 5:21}.  That Jesus sure does get around.  

In that day you shall know that I am in My Father, and you in Me, and I in you. 

Johns Account 14:20, Concordant New Testament 

One of the truths that looks on the surface to prove to us the living Christ are the words of the apostle Paul.  It is Paul who speaks of the indwelling Christ in him {Paul to the Galatians 2:20}.  The apostle John speaks to Jesus and the Father making their home in us {Johns Account 14:23}.  Is what Paul speaks of in Galatians proof of this?  I believe so.  I believe that the indwelling Christ in me is the fulfillment of the promise given by Jesus through His apostle Johns Account 14:20, 14:23}.  The truth is that we now live in union with Christ and the Father just as has been told to us through scripture.  Jesus HAS prepared a place for us in He and the Father.  So, what does this mean concerning the church theology that Jesus will come to receive those who believe?  Well, if we trust in the words of Jesus Himself, He has already come to do just that.  This opens the door to another question.  Is this heaven?  What is the scriptural destination of heaven?  Up in the sky?  Or, is heaven that reality of our being in Him?  Has Jesus come to receive us unto Himself?  I believe that this is the truth of our union in Him.  He has come to include us in that place He has prepared.  Amen! 

~Scott~ 

False Image

 

You walked flawless in your ways from the day of your creation, until iniquity was found in you.

Ezekiel 28: 15, Concordant Old testament 

You've heard it said that many in Christianity have followed a false narrative that they are in some way separated from God.  This, of course, is the lie spoken by the serpent in the Garden of Eden.  But what was it that made the lie of Satan so convincing that the Lords creation would fall for it hook line and sinker?  What if it wasn't what he said, but who it was that said it?  What if Adam and Eve were so enamored by the appearance of the deceiver that they instantly thought that he must be the image of the creator?  Am I off my rocker?  Maybe, but if we delve deeper into the history of the so called deceiver we get a better picture of him.  The prophet Ezekiel proclaims that Lucifer "Walked flawless in your ways."  We can assume that Lucifer was indeed of beauty and wisdom.  The scriptures tell us that Eve was approached in the garden by "The serpent" {Genesis 3:1}.  But what if the deceiver approached the Lords creation as an image of beauty and not a snake?  I find this to be entirely possible.  After all, the fallen Lucifer is known as the "Deceiver."  So, this image of a creation of beauty approaches Eve and inquires if the Lord has indeed said that they should not eat of every tree of the garden.  Standing before Eve was the absolute false image of God.  But how was Eve to know this?  To Eve, this image of beauty was the image of the creator Himself.  So it is that when Satan speaks the lie unto Eve that "Not to die shall you be dying" {Genesis 3:4}, Eve took of the forbidden fruit.  Not only that, she also gave unto Adam and he partook of the fruit as well.  Adam and Eve had fallen for the false image of God.  This is not at all surprising, as Satan has continually sought his own glory.  Keep in mind, at no point were Adam and Eve separated from the God, they simply had a false image of who He is.  This is the lie which continues to infect not only the mainstream church, but far too many believers as well.  The lie that we can somehow "Become like Elohim, knowing good and evil" {Genesis 3:5}.  

There is no independent, self-operating self in the universe, except the One who calls Himself the I AM {Exodus 3:14} and says, "I am the Lord and there is none else, there is no God beside Me{Isaiah 45:5}. 

No Independent Self ~ Norman Grubb 

Over time, the idea that we as humans live separate from our creator has taken hold.  We live and think for ourselves as if God has no place in our lives.  Of course, nothing could be further from the truth.  The false image of the Lord God insists that we are our own individuals.  The truth of our creation speaks to something else entirely.  For it is the Father who has created us in His image {Genesis 1:27}.  It is also the Father who has breathed into our creation the breath of life, creating a living soul {Genesis 2:7}.  The only thing the deceiver has ever created is discontent.  In fact, Lucifer Himself is a being created in beauty by the Father.  The problem is, he allowed his beauty to influence who he was.  He allowed his importance to influence his own view of himself.  It is Lucifer who declared that he himself would be like God {Isaiah 14:14}.  For this Lucifer was cast down, but that wasn't the end of his ambitions.  For he continues today to convince the Lords creation of the lie which he spoke unto Adam and Eve.  That they are indeed separated from the Father.  Sadly, the mainstream church has fallen for the deception.  We're told that we can "Be like" Jesus.  Yet, Jesus Himself speaks of our union in He and the Father {Johns Account 14:20}.  Our choice is simple, we can choose the one true God, our heavenly Father.  Or, we can choose to accept the false image of the Father presented to us by the deceiver.

~Scott~ 

*With special thanks to my dear friend Dennis Deardorff and his book 'Knowing Jesus ~ Discovering how Jesus lives as me'* 

Being Known

 

Yet hallow the Lord Christ in your hearts, ever ready with a defense for everyone who is demanding from you an account concerning the expectation in you, but with meekness and fear.

Peter to the Dispersion 3: 15, Concordant New Testament 

The other day I had a friend tell me that he had noticed something different about me since he we had met.  Now, for my part, I have never seen myself as special, simply another normal person.  But this man insisted that there was indeed something different which he had noticed.  Then he laid it out for me.  When he had injured himself on his contracting job, I took the time to check in on him.  When he needed someone to listen, he knew that he could speak to me.  It's funny how those around us can see things in us that we ourselves fail to recognize.  I don't apologize for these things which my friend noticed in me, for I have no need to.  I feel that I am the same way with everyone that I meet.  This is how I am known.  It is Jesus who speaks to those who will be known by their fruits {Matthews Account 7:20}.  Although in this passage Jesus is referring to the many false prophets that will come into the world, I believe that it applies to those who know the Lord as well.  For if we ourselves bear good fruit, others will notice.  In a world where we all too often find resentment and hostility, those who walk in the Lord can be a refreshing change to the hostility around us.  I think of the hostility which Jesus Himself faced in His life, and how He responded to the hostility from those around Him.  His gentleness and compassion is something which we seek to model ourselves by today.  But I don't believe that we need to simply "Be like" Jesus and model ourselves after Him.  No, I believe that we live each and every day in union with Jesus and the Father {Johns Account 14:20}.  And if we live in union with the Father, then we have His attributes as well.  The love and compassion which the Lord Jesus has displayed to others is definitely a part of who we are.  By this, Jesus proclaims, we will be known {Johns Account 13:35}.  

Neither are they burning a lamp and placing it under a peck measure, but on a lampstand, and it is shining to all those in the house.  Thus let your light shine in front of men, so that they may perceive your ideal acts and should glorify your Father Who is in the heavens. 

Matthews Account 5: 15-16, Concordant New Testament 

Those who have been readers of this page may know that I am a regular visitor to my local gym.  There have been times where I have considered this as a hobby.  Through my time going to the gym, I have come to develop more than a few friendships with some of the regulars who I would usually see there.  My friend the contractor happens to be one of these brothers.  Over time, I began to refer to this group of friends as the Gym Rats.  A gym rat being a term people use for those who are constantly at the gym.  The name stuck.  The gym rats are a mixed bag of society.  We have professionals, contractors and students.  The truth is, if I have met you at the gym you would most likely be known as a gym rat in our group.  I've often thought that this group of friends could be a close replica of the disciples of Jesus.  That is, if they were all believers.  So, I guess that's where I come in.  My friend the contractor is not a believer in Jesus, yet he knows that I am.  The funny thing is, even the most worldly of our gym rats will suddenly watch their language and behavior whenever I approach them.  Why is that?  I'd like to think that I have been having a good influence upon those around me.  Maybe it's because they just don't want to offend me.  Whatever the case, these gym rats know where I stand.  It's how I'm known. 

~Scott~ 

Faith Of The Blind

 And answering, the Centurian averred, "Lord, I am not competent that Thou mayest enter under my roof, but only say the word and my boy will be healed!  For I also am a man under authority, having soldiers under me, and I am saying to this one, 'Go,' and he is going, and to another, 'Come,' and he is coming, and to my slave, 'Do this,' and he is doing it"  Now, hearing it, Jesus marvels.  And He said to those following, "Verily, I am saying to you, with no one is Israel so much faith did I find.  

Matthews Account 8: 8-10, Concordant New Testament 

I want to speak to the issue of faith for awhile.  That being said, what is it that you believe in most strongly?  The world around you?  That which you already know?  in the book of Matthew we see a Roman Centurian approaching Jesus for assistance with the healing of his servant.  Now, obviously this mans servant was important enough to him that he would entreat the help of a Jewish teacher.  What did this Centurian know about Jesus?  Well, obviously he knew enough to understand that Jesus alone had the ability to heal his servant.  But it's more than that.  This Centurian understood and knew beyond doubt that Jesus had the ability to heal his servant.  In the series The Chosen, this Centurian (Gaius) is introduced into the story prior to the calling of Matthew the tax collector by Jesus.  Yet, in the scriptures, he is first introduced as he approaches Jesus with his request.  The point being, obviously this Centurian knew of the abilities of Jesus prior to his meeting Him.  Obviously, the fame of Jesus at this point made this possible.  We know why a Roman soldier would approach Jesus form help.  My question has always been, where do I find that faith this Centurian displayed?  I have heard this referred to as the "Faith of the Centurian" in mainstream church circles.  For lack of a better word, I refer to it as blind faith.  My mother would have a phrase she would often tell me when she spoke of the her faith.  We know that we know.  Amen!  By faith, we know that Jesus come to save {Johns Account 3:16-17}.  By faith we know that God has created all which we see {Genesis 2:1-2}.  But is it at all possible to utilize this faith in other areas of our lives?  Absolutely!  The writer of Hebrews tells us that without faith that it impossible to please the Father, for whoever is coming to God must believe that He is {To the Hebrews 11:6}.  

For by faith we are walking, not by perception

Paul to the Corinthians (2) 5: 7, Concordant New Testament 

Growing up in the church, faith took on a different meaning than what I understand today.  Faith meant effort.  Faith meant repentance.  However, when orchestrated correctly, faith produced answered prayers {Matthews Account 21:22, Marks Account 11:22-24}.  Faith was tied to what I requested from the Lord in my life.  I listened to a well known pastor recently speak that he had prayed for a luxury airplane and his own faith had brought that request to fruition.  Now, personally, I don't believe that this is a correct way to describe faith to someone.  Years ago, the mainstream church went through what was known as the "Name it and claim it" phase of Christianity.  Believers were taught that all they needed to do was to ask the Lord for something and believe He would provide it.  Sounds simple, it's even spoken that way in the scriptures I have mentioned.  But I believe that faith is more than simply a wish list for the Father to fulfill.  I believe that faith is our undying belief in the gift which the Father has provided.  That being His Son Christ Jesus.  By faith we know that Christ died for us {Paul to the Ephesians 2:8}.  By faith we know that Jesus has always been with us {Johns Account 1:1-4}.  I believe that this is the basis of our faith, that we know the Father.  That we know and understand the truth of Christ Jesus {Johns Account 14:20}.  We know that we know...He is!  

For you are all sons of God, through faith in Christ Jesus

Paul to the Galatians 3: 26, Concordant New Testament 

~Scott~ 

A Fathers Wish

 Perceive what manner of love the Father has given us, that we may be called children of God!  And we are!  Therefore the world does not know us, for it did not know Him. 

First Epistle of John 3: 1, Concordant New Testament 

The more that I think of it, I sometimes feel as if I got short changed somehow.  Having grown up without a father in my life, I did not experience the kind of growth and experiences which others who have had relationships with their earthly fathers have.  In fact, I did not learn until later in life that my own father regretted the decisions which he had made early in life.  Water under the bridge so they say.  I'm not knocking the fact that I grew up in a single parent home, for that in itself helped make me who it is that I am.  My mothers greatest desire was that her youngest child would live his life knowing the Lord.  That I have done.  But every now and then I think of what could have been.  What path would my life had taken had I had children of my own?  Well, I definitely would have wanted my own children to know their father.  That goes without saying.  Yet whenever my thoughts turn to my own parents and the circumstances of my life, I am reminded of how it is that my One true Father wants to be remembered.  Indeed, the greatest desire of the Lord God is that His children, His creation in His likeness, would come to know Him.  Isn't that the wish of every father?  That his children would know him?  Why would it be any less with our true Father?  I recall some in my church days who would often take to referring to God as daddy.  This personal homage to the Lord confused me at times, especially when I was told that His name is above all names.  Is it good that I refer to Him as daddy?  Absolutely!  He is my daddy!  He is my Father.  He is my One and Only.  It took me awhile, but I came to realize that those around me were bestowing upon the Lord their endearment to Him in a way.  In the same way that we would show our love and affection to our human parents, we in the same way show our affection to God the Father in some of the only ways we know.  Often, our affections for Him are very emotional.  I feel that this is what the Father desires above all.  All too often, our brick and mortar churches have taken to elaborate celebration services which they claim is a celebration to the Lord, but is it?  Are these fancy gatherings the best which we can offer to Him?  Or, is our affection from our own heart what He is looking for?  

"But coming is the hour, and now is, when the true worshippers will be worshipping the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is also seeking such to be worshipping Him.  God is spirit, and those who are worshipping Him must be worshipping in spirit and truth."

Johns Account 4: 23-24, Concordant New Testament 

One of my favorite scenes of The Chosen series finds Jesus journeying into Samaria to encounter a Samaritan woman beside a well.  Now, anyone who knows their history may know of the discord between Samaritans and those of the Jewish faith.  Think of the Hatfield and McCoy feud on steroids.  This is where Jesus, raised a Jew, finds Himself on this day.  In intimate conversation with a Samaritan woman.  It was never the intent of Jesus to bring judgement or correction to this heathen Samaritan, but to return her to the Father from which she came.   How much must the Father have wanted this woman to come to know Him as her true Father?  For His part, Jesus speaks to her that it's not about the biggest temple or the place of worship, only about the heart of the believer {Johns Account 4:23-24}.  Imagine the liberation to someone who has been raised among religious divisions that God truly desires to know them as His own.  In this instance, the Samaritan woman ran from that well proclaiming the wonders of Jesus.  How many of the Lords children walk lost in this world not knowing their One true Father?  How is it that He will become known to them?  Through those that know Him {Matthews Account 5:14-16}.  For who better to share the desire of the Father than those who have known Him? 

~Scott~ 

Just Like Me

 

In that day you shall know that I am in My Father, and you in Me, and I in you. 

Johns Account 14: 20, Concordant New Testament  

I've often been criticized by some for my opposition to the Catholic religion.  Let me be clear, my issue is with the Catholic religious system and not those who profess to be Catholics.  For some time, I've found that the Catholic religious systems bestowing of deity like adoration upon those such as the mother of Jesus as well as His disciples was misplaced.  Of course, we Christians have our own symbol in the image of the cross of Jesus.  In the end, I feel that this all leads to the reinforcement of the lie that mankind is somehow separated from God.  That the Father and Jesus are in a place which we can never hope to enter into.  Of course, this goes back to the lie which Satan the accuser spoke unto Adam and Eve in the garden.  The lie which convinced them that were they to eat of the fruit which God had forbidden them that they would "Be like God, knowing good and evil" {Genesis 3:3-5}.  This separation mentality has infected most all of our beliefs.  We pray to a far off God.  We sing of a distant God, inviting Him into our presence.  This is all wrong!  The first indication I received of this was through the words of the apostle Paul as he spoke of Christ Jesus in me {Paul to the Galatians 2:20}.  Gradually, I began to see that I have  never been separated from the Father.  It is God who created me in His likeness {Genesis 1:27}.  It is He who breathed into my spirit the breath of life, creating a living soul {Genesis 2:7}.  How is it that I could ever be separated from my creator?  Yet this continues to be the teaching of our religious systems to crowded churches every week.  As I have read into the passages of Jesus and His woes to the Pharisees of His day I've discovered that He very well could have been speaking to our religious system leadership of today.  

Now when the full time came, God delegates His Son, come of a woman, come under law, that He should be reclaiming those under law, that we may be getting the place of a son. 

Paul to the Galatians 4: 4-5, Concordant New Testament 

Like many, I am a big fan of The Chosen series that depicts the life of Jesus during His ministry.  I have recommended this series to more than a few people as I think that it depicts Jesus as He is.  And who is Jesus?  I am Jesus.  Indeed, I live in union with He and the Father {Johns Account 14:20}.  Through The Chosen series, we see the human side of Jesus come through.  We see His joy and happiness as He heals those who have been afflicted.  We see His compassion on those who need Him.  Most importantly, we see the frustrations of Jesus when His followers fail to grasp the truth He is speaking to them.  In Jesus we see all of the emotions which we see in ourselves.  In Jesus we are witness to the same hopes and fears which we ourselves go through.  This isn't simply some slick Hollywood screenplay, but the truth of the living Christ.  Jesus is exactly like me.  Now, most people would find this image of Jesus as One that they could agree with.  A Jesus who has been where we've been.  We have One who has already been through the struggles which we face {To the Hebrews 4:15}.  No matter what we are facing, we can rest assured that Jesus has been there.  Not only that, but He is within us as we go through our trials as well.  Indeed, we walk through each and every day AS Christ who is in us.  We do not need to invite God into our presence, He's already there!  When I see Jesus, I see myself as well.  

~Scott~ 

Divine Politics

 

The Lord will be rescuing me from every wicked work and will be saving me for His celestial kingdom: To Whom be the glory for the eons of the eons. Amen! 

Paul to Timothy (2) 4: 18, Concordant New Testament 

Growing up, my mother would relate to me the story of what she was doing the moment that she heard that our nations 35th president, John Fitzgerald Kennedy had been assassinated in Dallas on November 22, 1963.  She had been folding clothes that November day when the news was broadcast over the radio of the presidents death.  My mother, like so many Americans, was deeply saddened and shocked by these events.  This past week, our nation was once again witness to politically motivated violence turned deadly.  The nations 45th president, and the obvious front runner for being the 47th president of this country, was wounded by a would be shooters bullet while campaigning in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.  Once again, the nation reacted with shock that the events of November 1963 could once again repeat themselves.  However, I've noticed something different about the reaction to these tragic events.  That being that people are once again talking about God.  For his part, Donald Trump has credited the Lord for his surviving the shooters bullets.  Anyone who has followed him knows that Trump has not been shy to speak of his faith in God.  Yet one of the amazing consequences of these events is that even some of the most liberal, Christian bashing networks have also began speaking of Gods hand in the events in Butler, Pennsylvania.  Can we assume that the Lord has orchestrated these events in order that His children would once again turn to Him?  I would not dispute that for a minute.  For I believe that Gods greatest desire is that His children would come to know Him.  As a result of the events of this past week, I am beginning to see God in our conversations once again.  

And I am giving them life eonian, and they should by no means be perishing for the eon, and no one shall be snatching them out of My hand. 

Johns Account 10: 28, Concordant New Testament 

Christians have all too often tossed around phrases such as divine intervention and divine protection in reference to the Lords work all around us.  The Old Testament scriptures speak to us of His protection {Psalm 118:6}.  In my heart, I know that Donald J Trump was not meant to die on that podium in Pennsylvania.  I also believe that the Lord has plans to use him for His purpose.  Just as the Father uses events in my own life for His purpose as well.  But how do you explain this to someone who for one reason or another is not a supporter of Trump?  Believe me, there are many who do not agree with him.  Many have referred to his assassination attempt as a staged political event.  If that be the case, I'm sure he would not have volunteered.  As I said, I believe that the Father has used the events of this past week to once again turn the eyes of His children unto Him.  Of course, there will be those who will not heed this call, but I have seen many who you would never expect to come to the Lord to began to openly speak of Him.  For this I am thankful.  The events in Butler, Pennsylvania while tragic, have opened the door once again for the Fathers children to come to know Him.  For it is only the Father who could orchestrate such good out of the darkness of human hatred.  

~Scott~ 

Hath No Fear

 

Fear is not in love, but perfect love is casting out fear, for fear has chastening.  Now he who is fearing is not perfected in love. 

First Epistle of John 4: 18, Concordant New Testament 

That which we don't know can be a scary thing.  All too often some of our own worst fears involve that which we cannot yet see.  I was reminded of this week as I prepared for a new chapter in my life.  I don't know what this will entail, which was the cause of most of my anxiety these past few days.  Fortunately, I was able to connect with a few brothers who were able to reassure me that this was simply another opportunity in the Lord.  Now, seeking the counsel of others is not something new, but it can definitely lead us to a fresh perspective of what it is that we are about to face.  This is the very reason that those in important positions surround themselves with wise counsel.  Yet all of the wise counsel in the world cannot take away from the fact that the Lord is in control of what we ourselves cannot yet see.  As our creator, God knows every twist and turn that our lives will take even before we're even aware of them.  God has declared through His prophet Jeremiah that He knows the plans which He has for us {Jeremiah 29:11}.  We can rest assured that whatever it is that we will be going through, will be in accordance of the plans which the Father has laid out from the beginning.  Facing the unknown can be a pretty scary thought, but we 're not going through it alone by any means.  It may be of comfort us that we live now in union with the Father {Johns Account 14:20}.  Whatever it is that we are going through, we experience in Him.  God Himself is bringing us through this life journey with Him.  Knowing this, what do we have to fear?  In His sermon on the temple mount, Jesus spoke to the follies of our worries {Matthews Account 6:25}.  Jesus also has proclaimed that we need not worry about tomorrow {Matthews Account 6:34}.  These are not simply words in scripture to be glanced at in times of our trials, but are meant to remind us of what is most important.  

For I Myself know the designs that I am designing for you, averring is Yahweh, designs for your well-being and not for evil, to give you a hereafter and an expectation.  

Jeremiah 28: 11, Concordant Old Testament 

In my recent struggles, I once again turned to the words of Jeremiah.  It is he who reminds us that the designs which the Father has in store for us are not intended for evil, but for our well-being.  It is fear which brings us into those dark places of the unknown.  Yet we are reminded that in God there is no fear {First Epistle of John 4:1}.  God does not bring us through difficult situations to frighten us, but to enlighten us.  We can rest assured that NOTHING God does is ever done out of evil intent.  That's not who He is.  We're also reminded that the Father may bring us into situations in order to grow us.  The apostle Paul faced His own dark moments many times in his ministry.  Paul proclaims that we should be glorying in our afflictions, that doing so produces endurance {Paul to the Romans 5:3}.  It's common knowledge that we learn more from the valleys of our experiences than we do from standing on the top of the mountains.  These experiences shape and define us.  Why should I fear something which the Lord seeks to grow in me?  There are two things which we can definitely be certain of.  We will continue to walk through life's difficult situations in union with the Father, and that we will come through them stronger than we were.  

~Scott~ 

Freedom In The Truth

 

If ever, then, the Son should be making you free, you will be really free

Johns Account 8: 36, Concordant New Testament 

Many in Christianity are fond of the phrase "Freedom in Jesus."  I like to think that I have come to realize that freedom for myself.  However, the freedom in Christ which I have realized is different from the freedom in Jesus I first learned of growing up.  It's my belief that the Christian religion views freedom in Christ as somewhat of a finishing point of our belief.  Jesus died on the cross for our sins, He was raised from the dead three days later, end of story.  I've always felt that there was something of a finality to the death and resurrection of Jesus in the Christian religion.  Yes, Jesus was observed by many after He rose from the dead, but then we're told of His ascending into heaven, which is seen as somewhat of His final chapter {Lukes Account 24:51}.  From that point, Jesus was seated at the right hand of the Father in heaven where He remains {Marks Account 16:19}.  Of course, this plays directly into the narrative that mankind is separated from God.  No matter, my sins have been cleansed, so that is my freedom in Jesus, or so I thought.  What I've learned since stepping out of the mainstream church is that the crucifixion of Christ Jesus was not the end of Him, but only the beginning.  Too many Christians look at the symbol of the cross and see it as something final.  The end of the road.  That's simply not the case at all.  Jesus isn't separated from the Fathers children as He sits in heaven watching over all mankind.  The first indication I received of this came from the words of the apostle Paul in Galatians.  Paul speaks to the spirit of Christ living in him {Paul to the Galatians 2:20}.  I do not see this as something pertaining to Paul, but to all of Gods children.  Jesus is alive!  Paul speaks of being "Crucified with Christ" in his writings.  That if we have died with Him, that we should be living with Him as well {Paul to the Romans 6:8}.  But is it at all possible for Jesus to live in the iniquities of sinners?  Weren't we all told at one time or another that all have sinned?{Paul to the Romans 3:23}  Yes, that is a true statement, for all mankind through the actions of Adam and Eve in the garden lived under the sin of disobedience.  But Jesus turned all of that on its ear.  Through the sacrifice of Christ, the sin we have been born under has been wiped away.  We are, as Paul tells us, a new creation in Christ {Paul to the Corinthians (2) 5:17}.  

For freedom Christ frees us!  Stand firm, then, and be not again enthralled with the yoke of slavery. 

Paul to the Galatians 5: 1, Concordant New Testament 

As I said, I believe that I have come to see for myself the freedom which I have in Christ.  Notice that I said freedom IN Jesus and not the freedom OF Jesus.  For it is in Christ Jesus that we are truly free.  Contrary to church theology, Jesus is not separated from the Lords children.  The truth is that we live each and every day in Him {Johns Account 14:20}.  One of the key truths of this freedom is the work Jesus achieved on the cross.  We're told that Jesus became a sin offering for us {Paul to the Corinthians (2) 5:21}.  When Jesus died, we also perished to the sin we were born under {Paul to the Romans 6:6}.  When I speak to my being dead to sin, this is what I'm referring to {Paul to the Romans 6:11}.  I therefore now enjoy freedom IN Christ Jesus.  The theology of the mainstream church continues to speak to the separation of God from His children.  Also, and perhaps most important, they speak of the continuing struggle with the sin issue.  This is why I did not realize my own freedom in Christ until I had stepped outside of the traditional church.  That isn't saying that one could not discover this revelation of the Father while attending the traditional church, it's just how it happened for me.  By this you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free {Johns Account 8:32}.  

~Scott~ 

The Indifference Of God

 

Wherefore also, lest I should be lifted up by the transcendence of the revelations, there was given to me a splinter in the flesh, a messenger of Satan, that he may be buffeting me, lest I be lifted up.  For this I entreat the Lord thrice, that it should withdraw from me.  Also He has protested to me, "Sufficient for you is My grace, for My power in infirmity is being perfected."  With the greatest relish, then, will I rather be glorifying in my infirmities, that the power of Christ should be tabernacling over me.  Wherefore I delight in infirmities, in outrages, in necessities, in persecutions, in distress, for Christs sake, for, whenever I may be weak, then I am powerful. 

Paul to the Corinthians (2) 12: 7-10, Concordant New Testament 

I grew up knowing a God who would provide for all of my needs.  Do a Google search for bible verses on unanswered prayers and you will find something interesting.  That being an entire list of scriptures on just the opposite, of the Lords promises for provision.  But what of those times when the Lords provision does not materialize?  In my younger days, I came to see the scriptures of James, the Lords brother, as an indication of why it is that God does not respond to our prayer requests.  James speaks to our requests not being honored as they seek to satisfy "Your own gratifications" {James to the Twelve Tribes 4:3}.  That is, the reason that God does not answer our prayer requests is because we ask for things we desire and not things that we truly need.  While this may be true, it certainly shaped my prayer life growing up.  I learned early on to ask only for needs and not wants.  Then came the "Name it and claim it" phase that Christian churches went through a decade or so ago.  Suddenly it was ok to ask the God for wealth and provision.  I mean, why wouldn't God want His children to flourish?  I believe that the words of Jesus speak to this very idea in the book of Matthew.  It is Jesus who proclaims that "Wherever your treasure is, there your heart will be also" {Matthews Account 6:21}.  So, if our focus is on monetary gain and possessions, then that is where our hearts will be focused.  Do we desire a heart focused on the wealth of this world, or on God?  Of course, that choice is up to us.  Now, our prayers need not be for wealth or prestige, but for something we truly feel that we need.  Enter the apostle Paul, who found himself with a splinter in his flesh.  Of course, Paul trusted that his request for relief from this "Messenger from Satan" would come from the Lord.  Thus, Paul "Entreated the Lord thrice, that it should withdraw from me"{Paul to the Corinthians (2) 12:8}.  What was Gods response to Paul?  "Sufficient for you is My grace, for My power in infirmity is being perfected" {Paul to the Corinthians (2) 12:9}.  God did not deliver Paul from that thorn in his flesh, but reminded Him that His power is perfected in our weakest moments.  

Now apart from faith it is impossible to be well pleasing, for he who is coming to God must believe that He is, and is becoming a Rewarder of those who are seeking Him out. 

To the Hebrews 11:6, Concordant New Testament 

As I mentioned, there are plenty of verses in scripture of how the Lord will honor our prayers.  There are even verses which tell us that He hears what it is we seek from Him.  We know that God listened to Paul when he asked Him for relief from that which was ailing him.  We also know that instead of bringing relief to Paul, that the Father reminded him of what was more important in his situation.  That being the power and grace of the Lord.  Paul, in his distress, did what people for thousands of years have done, he addressed the Lord for relief in his weakest moment.  I think that the underlying message we can find in Paul's situation is that our weakest moments also belong to God.  Paul was well aware that he lived his life in union with the Father and Son {Johns Account 14:20}.  It is Paul who proclaims to us the spirit of Christ dwelling within us {Paul to the Galatians 2:20}.  He understood that Christ was the center of his life {Paul to the Philippians 1:21}.  Therefore, when God revealed to him that He was in Paul's infirmity with him, Paul understood all too well.  Like Paul, we can find joy in our darkest moments knowing that we do not face them alone.  There will come times where we may feel that the Lord has forgotten us when our requests go unanswered, but knowing the truth of our union in the Father assures us that we are never alone in Him.  

~Scott~ 

With God On Our Side

 

"Yet take heed not to be doing your righteousness in front of men, in order to be gazed at by them, otherwise surely you have no wages with your Father who is in the heavens.  Wherever, then, you may be doing alms, you should not be trumpeting in front of you, even as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, so that they should be glorified by men.  Verily, I am saying to you, they are collecting their wages!" 

Matthews Account 6: 1-2, Concordant New Testament 

I still get asked every now and then when I run into someone from my old church days.  Where are you going to church?  My usual response, not wanting to make waves, is that I am between churches.  Not too long ago, I ran into a brother I used to know from my old church who asked where I was attending.  When I gave the standard answer, his eyes lit up as he invited me to attend the out of the way congregation he had recently began going to.  I was trapped!  I assured him that I would look into this church in the future.  So, what church is it that you're currently involved with?  The place of worship where you feel most close to God.  Like it or not, this is how churches brand themselves.  That they are the way to a closer relationship with your heavenly Father and His Son.  Think of it, whenever you hear of getting closer to God, what is one of the first things you know that you need to do?  For me the answer was simple...I need to get into church!  For in church we find fellow believers in God.  But here's the deal, the church begets Christianity and Christianity begets religious systems.  What church did Christ Jesus say that we should attend?  We know that Jesus Himself was raised in the Jewish faith and that His custom was to journey into the temple {Lukes Account 4:16-21}.  But what church did He say that believers should attend?  Like Jesus, my custom growing up was to find myself in Gods house on Sunday mornings.  It's just what we did, that was our custom.  Despite Jesus attending and teaching in the local synagogue, did He affiliate Himself with the leaders of the church leaders of His day?  For that answer I refer you to Jesus' woe to the Pharisees scriptures.  So, here we have Jesus in the synagogue as was His custom, yet not by compulsion.  Indeed, there's a difference between the two.  

And he came to Nazareth, where He was reared, and, according to His custom on the day of the sabbaths, He entered into the synagogue and rose to read.  And handed to Him was a scroll of the prophet Isaiah, and. opening the scroll, He found the place where it is written, "The spirit of the Lord is on Me, on account of which He anoints Me to bring the evangel to the poor.  He has commissioned Me to heal the crushed heart, to herald to captives a pardon, And to the blind the receiving of sight;  To dispatch the oppressed with a pardon.  To herald an acceptable year of the Lord..."  And furling the scroll, giving it back to the deputy, He is seated.  And the eyes of all in the synagogue were looking intently at Him.  Now He begins to be saying to them that "Today this scripture is fulfilled in your ears." 

Lukes Account 4: 16-21, Concordant New Testament 

The key difference we see in Jesus' teaching in the temple is that He spoke to proclaim the gospel, not to uphold the man-made church system.  When people ask me these days if I am a Christian I immediately correct them.  I'm not a Christian, I'm a follower of Jesus.  There's a difference.  The Christian religion is chock full of traditions, rules and regulations to be followed.  It is these requirements which Jesus put to death with Him on the cross {Paul to the Colossians 2:14}.  The Jewish Pharisees, the leaders of the religious system of the day, constantly butted heads with Jesus for His refusal to adhere to the laws and traditions of the synagogue.  Jesus called out the Jewish leaders for their hypocrisy.  The other day I saw a video of a street preacher proclaiming that he was not a Christian, but a follower of Jesus.  Amen!  Jesus has proclaimed that He is the way to the Father {Johns Account 14:6}.  You will not come to know the Father in you simply by sitting in a church.  I didn't.  The apostle Paul, one of the greatest teachers of the evangel of Christ of all time did not come to his own realization of Christ Jesus from his time spent in the Jewish religious system.  By his own account, Paul credits that realization unto the Father Himself {Paul to the Galatians 1:15-16}.  For it is God who revealed the Son of God in him as it was for me as well.  No amount of church learning had brought me to this knowledge.  No Sunday sermon led me to this knowing of Jesus in me.  

~Scott~ 

Anxious For Nothing

 Fear is not in love, but perfect love is casting out fear, for fear has chastening.  Now he who is fearing is not perfected in love. 

First Epistle of John 4: 18, Concordant New Testament 

Growing up, I used to have a bible which was given to me by my mother on one of my birthdays.  Over the years, that old bible took on the look as if it had seen better days.  Going through it every now and then I'd notice that there were more than a few well faded pages.  I also recalled that the reason that these pages were faded and well used was that they were the scriptures which I turned to and read most often.  One of the most often read sections came in the book of Matthew where Jesus spoke His sermon on the Mount.  No matter what I was going through in life, I could often find comfort in the words of Jesus in these passages.  This week I once again returned to those pages and the words of Jesus as He spoke to us about being anxious and worrying.  Jesus poses the question of who by worrying can add to their stature {Matthews Account 6:27}.  He lists off a few common material things which people of His day would worry over.  Food, clothing and drink.  Yet He reminds them that their Father in heaven surely knows of their needs {Matthews Account 6:32}.  I have found that those things which we worry and toil so much over can be broken down to the simplest form of our own fears.  We fear that we will not have enough to live on.  We fear that our situation may be too big for God to handle.  Yet God speaks to us that He KNOWS what we need before we even ask Him {Matthews Account 6:8}.  Yes, God knows our requests even before we speak them to Him.  God knows what we need even before we ask Him.  Why is it that we're anxious and afraid?  The apostle John speaks to our not having a spirit of fear {First Epistle of John 4:18}.  Indeed, we have a Father who knows our needs and desires before we even speak them and we are in Him in whatever it is that we do {Johns Account 14:20}.  But wait, what about those who are going without?  Yes, God knows their requests before they present them as well.  That God allows some of His children to go without is a discussion for another time.  

Tossing your entire worry on Him, for He is caring concerning you.

Peter to the Dispersion (1) 5:7, Concordant New Testament 

I remember some years ago when a good friend and I decided on a spur of the moment hunting trip to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.  This is commonly known in the Midwest as "White tail country."  Our supplies for this trip included our hunting bows, fishing rods, a rudimentary cooking stove and a few bottles of water.  We were truly roughing it!  So convinced were we that our hunt would be successful that we opted not to take food items for the trip.  If not, there was always catching a few fish to fry.  I would say that this is living in confidence.  Knowing that no matter what, the Lord would provide.  Of course, back then, the thought that it was God who was providing for us was farthest from my mind.  Yet that is exactly what was happening behind the scenes.  Too many times in life, our fears seem to contradict that which we have come to know in our hearts.  We know that God is above all things, yet we worry if our situation is too big for Him.  We know in our hearts that He knows our needs, but we speak our needs to Him despite this.  Do we fear that God has forgotten about us?  Possibly, I know that the thought has crossed my mind in the past.  The fact is that we live in a microwave speed world, and our expectations of the Lord move at about that same speed.  We're told to "Wait upon the Lord" {Isaiah 40:31}.  Indeed, stepping back and taking stock of a situation can often provide us with fresh insight.  Also, trusting in God and allowing Him to work through us can put fear in its rightful place.  

~Scott~ 

Guilty By Interpretation

 

And not to be configured to this eon, but to be transformed by the renewing of your mind, for you to be testing what is the will of God, good and well pleasing and perfect.  

Paul to the Romans 12: 2, Concordant New Testament 

I believe that Larry King said it best in an interview with pastor Joel Osteen.  King claimed that "Any pastor who walks around in public in an expensive suit, while others around him are going without, is a copout."  Osteen's response?  "I'm sorry, Larry, but I just don't see it that way."  So is the elite class of religious system pastors who today count their fortunes as they lead congregations of followers who either live paycheck to paycheck or go without.  I see this as the very definition of hypocrisy.  I would challenge any pastor who agrees with Osteen to point to the scripture which proclaims they have the God given right to these fortunes garnered in His name.  After all, they're Christian pastors are they not?  Have they not used the Lords name to gather unto themselves their fortunes?  Again, hypocrisy at its finest.  For some time, I have been against the lavish furnishings of our houses of worship.  Is this how God desires to present Himself to His children?  As a God of riches and splendor?  Take a look at how the Father chose to exemplify Himself to the world.  Not as a king or great military leader, but as common man from Nazareth.  Was Jesus ever clothed in wonderful, colorful linens?  Did He wear a crown on his head proclaiming His status?  No!  Yet many believers continue to follow the ministries of these sharply dressed men.  Thankfully, some have taken to referring to these wolves in sheep's clothing as simple motivational speakers and not as traditional pastors.  I believe that this is a far better description of them.  Of course, I'm hardly motivated by a rich guy saying he needs more of my money.  What has always amazed me is the influence that these men, and women, have over their flocks.  Of course, the blame here lies not with the congregations but with the men leading them.  

"Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites!  for you are resembling the whitewashed sepulchers which outside, indeed, are appearing beautiful, yet inside they are crammed with the bones of the dead and all uncleanness." 

Matthews Account 23: 27, Concordant New Testament 

Want to put these pastors like Joel Osteen and Keneth Copland to the test?  Ask yourself, how is it that Jesus Himself would view their behaviors?  I believe that we already know that answer.  In Matthew, we see Jesus confronting the elite scribes and Pharisees of His day.  These authorities ruled over the Jewish temples, instructed the people on how to uphold the law of God and walked about in well adorned robes.  These scribes and Pharisees were often the elite of society, demanding the best seats in the synagogues and public places.  Sound familiar?  Of course, in Jesus these men had met their match.  Jesus called out these Pharisees and scribes for exactly who they were, hypocrites.  Demanding righteous behaviors from the people while they themselves were anything but.  Again, sound familiar?  The apostle John proclaims that we should be "Testing the spirits to see if they are of God" {First Epistle of John 4:1}.  Where is scripture does it proclaim that our church leaders are to be exalted financially?  The author of Acts proclaims that leaders of the church are to "Take heed to yourselves and to the entire flocklet" {Acts of the Apostles 20:28}.  That the leaders of the family of the followers of Christ are to place emphasis on the well being of their flock.  Would Jesus be proclaiming the woes of Joel Osteen?  Knowing what I do, I believe that he most definitely would.  Freedom in Christ Jesus does not involve supporting the financial well being of those who seek to use the name of the Lord to enrich themselves.  

"Take heed to yourselves and the entire flocklet, among which the holy spirit appointed you to be supervisors, to be shepherding the ecclesia of God, which He procures through the blood of His own"

Acts of the Apostles 20: 28, Concordant New Testament 

~Scott~ 

Choose Your Sin

 

Knowing this, that our old humanity was crucified together with Him, that the body of sin may be nullified, for us by no means to be still slaving for sin, for one who dies has been justified from sin.  Now if we died together with Christ, we believe that we shall be living together with Him also, having perceived that Christ, being roused from among the dead, is no longer dying.  Death is lording it over Him no longer, for in that He died, He died to sin once for all time, yet in that He is living, He is living to God.  Thus you also, be reckoning yourselves to be dead, indeed, to sin, yet living to God in Christ Jesus our Lord. 

Paul to the Romans 6: 6-11, Concordant New Testament 

This week our discussion touched on a few aspects of the former issue of sin.  I say former because that's what it is, in the past.  Yet there continue to be believers who struggle each and every day with the issue of sin as if it was still important to us.  I've mentioned my friend before who grew up in the Eastern Orthodox church system.  He struggles each day with feelings of guilt and shame for the sins he believes in his heart that he has committed.  When I bring up the truth of Christ Jesus, that He gave Himself that our sins would be no more, he insists that was only for his sins of the past, but that each day he behaves in bad ways.  This got me thinking about what we classify as sin.  Doing some digging, I found an interesting definition of the word sin.  Sin is, in effect, "A vitiated state of human nature in which the self is estranged from God" {Merriam-Webster}.  Well, two things I'd like to point out here, there is NO independent self and we are NOT estranged from God.  This goes back to the lie the deceiver spoke unto Adam and Eve in the garden.  Satan told Eve that if she were to eat of the forbidden fruit that "You will not surely die" {Genesis 3:4}.  Instead, once she ate of the fruit that "Your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil" {Genesis 3:5}.  How could Adam and Eve had known that, having been created by God, that they were already like Him.  God was already a intimate part of them.  Instead, the lie of our separation from God was born.  The original sin.  Therefore, when Christ died on that cross, He put the original sin, the lie that we are separated from God, to death {Paul to the Romans 6:10}.  So, what is it that we continue to feel guilty from?  What sin has Jesus left untouched?  When He died on the cross, Jesus proclaimed, "It is accomplished!"  The sin debt has been paid in full.  Tell me again what sins you continue to fret over.  

And you are aware that He was manifested that He should be taking away our sins, and in Him is no sin. 

First Epistle of John 3: 5, Concordant New Testament 

I made the comment the other day in our conversation that the scriptures tell of the works of Christ Jesus.  Scripture tells us that Jesus became sin on our behalf {Paul to the Corinthians (2) 5:21}.  Scripture tells us that Jesus died once for all of mankind {Paul to the Romans 6:10}.  I believe that the scriptures themselves have not let us down, but our own interpretation of them.  Indeed, someone can look at the gospel of Jesus and formulate a totally different meaning than the Lord intended.  I believe that this is why John warned us to 'Test the spirits to see if they are from God" {First Epistle of John 4:1}.  Why is it that we would celebrate the fact that Jesus died for our sins yet continue to worry over them?  The reason that I brought up the definition of sin is that many well meaning believers have mistaken their wrong behaviors for outright sin.  You know that Jesus died for your sins, yet you continue behave in a way that you feel is contrary to what you believe.  Paul asks this very same question in Romans.  Should we be persisting in sin since we've already been forgiven?  No!  Or, as Paul claims, "May it not be coming to that!" {Paul to the Romans 6:1-2}.  How can it be that we who have died unto sin should continue to live in it?  It's a false narrative.  What we should be doing is living our lives in the truth that Christ has died to put sin to death once and for all.  This is part of our freedom in Christ Jesus.  

What, then, shall we declare?  That we may be persisting in sin that grace should be increasing?  May it not be coming to that!  We, who died to sin, how shall we still be living in it? 

Paul to the Romans 6: 1-2, Concordant New Testament 

~Scott~ 

A God With Conditions

 

"You, then, should not be worrying, saying, 'What may we be eating?' or, "What may we be drinking?' or, 'With what may we be clothed?'  For all these things the nations are seeking.  For aware is your heavenly Father that you need all of these.  Yet seek first the kingdom and its righteousness, and these all shall be added to you.  You should not, then, be worrying about the morrow, for the morrow will be worrying of itself.  Sufficient for the day is its own evil."

Matthews Account 6: 31-34, Concordant New Testament 

Do you believe that God knows what you need?  Do you trust Him to provide for you?  Someone who lives paycheck to paycheck might scoff and say that God does not know what he needs.  Yet with each paycheck he is fed.  Back in my church days I would often put conditions upon God for His provision.  If I was in a bad situation, I would bargain with Him, promising to follow Him more if He would only deliver me from my current state of affairs.  I think that far too many beliers have been in that same situation before.  I give myself credit that I knew that God held me in His hands, but my approach was all wrong.  I felt that by relating with Him on a personal level of conversation that I could somehow bargain with for His favor.  Somehow, I don't think that's how it's supposed to work.  The Lord Jesus tells us in Matthew that the Lord already knows what we need even before we ask Him {Matthews Account 6:33}.  But if God already knows what I need, why do I feel the need to ask Him to provide it?  Well, two words come to mind, trust and faith.  Do I trust in Him enough that He will provide for me?  Is my faith in Him strong enough to know that He already knows my needs?  Also, notice here that I am referring to our needs and not what we often want.  I believe that faith and trust go hand in hand.  There are more than a few accounts in the gospels where Jesus proclaims to those being healed that their faith has made them well.  The woman who touched the cloak of Jesus believed that if she could only touch Him that she would be healed {Matthews Account 9:20-22}.  The Roman centurion believed that Jesus only speak the words and that his servant would be healed {Matthews Account 8:5-9}.  Not surprisingly, Jesus was pleased with these showings of faith in the Lords children.  

Do not worry about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. 

Paul to the Philippians 4: 6, Concordant New Testament 

So, do we really need to place conditions on God?  Did that Roman Centurion place conditions upon Jesus that his servant would be healed?  Did Abraham bargain with God in the defining moment of his life?  As Abraham proclaims, "My son, God will provide for Himself the lamb for a burnt offering" {Genesis 22:8}.  So it is with we who follow the Lord today.  Our faith and trust in the Lord brings leads us into a more personal relationship with Him.  Also, knowing who it is that we are in Him can help us understand that He does indeed provide for His children.  For we live in union with the Father and the Son {Johns Account 14:20}.  He has been in us from the beginning {Genesis 1:27}.  Do we really need to bargain anything from He who created us?  And the question will be asked, what about those among us who live without?  Does God not also know what they need?  Yes!  Some might seek to poke holes in this belief by saying that there are far too many of the Lords children who go without.  I would agree with that.  But that does not shake my faith that God knows always knows our needs.  He created us, we live through Him.  If we feel that weed need something, then He feels it as well.  We are not separate from God who created us.  Is it also possible that God places it upon the hearts of His children to provide the needs for others?  Absolutely.  Through His own the needs of the many will be met.  

Surely, He who spares not His own Son, but gives Him up for us all, how shall He not, together with Him, also, be graciously granting us all?

Paul to the Romans 8: 32, Concordant New Testament 

~Scott~ 

Speaking Of Jesus

 

Yet hallow the Lord Christ in your hearts, ever ready with a defense for everyone who is demanding from you an account concerning the expectation in you, but with meekness and fear. 

Peter to the Dispersion 3: 15, Concordant New Testament 

The question has popped up a few times recently of how it is that we should tell others about Jesus.  After all, who better to speak Jesus to others than those who know Him?  The first four books of the New Testament are the testament of the life and ministry of Christ written by those who knew Him well.  So it will be with those who know Him.  But how is it that we should speak of Jesus?  Do we remind others with scriptures pulled from the bible?  Do we share His words with them?  Indeed, there are good arguments for both of these methods, but we're not into arguments.  Traditionally, Christians have gotten a bad but well deserved reputation when it comes to speaking the gospel.  Too many people see Christians as "Holier than thou" bible thumpers who are all too quick to criticize lifestyles they find do not fit into their religion.  For their part, many Christian pastors fill their sermons with the dangers of bad behaviors and sin.  So it is that those who listen to these very same sermons go out into the world to convert as many people to their way of thinking as they possibly can.  I get it.  It almost reminds me of a modern day crusade.  You remember the crusades?  That period in our history where Christians dressed in combat garb traveled to far off lands all in the name of converting unbelievers.  I will be the first to say that this is NOT how we ought to tell others about Jesus.  I do not want to give someone else the impression that Jesus is a Judgemental Savior whose main desire is to cast down those who refuse to believe.  If I were in their position, that message would not sound to promising for me.  Instead, we can learn from the pages of the life and ministry of Christ how it is that we should tell others about Jesus.  Consider the woman caught in the sin of adultery brought unto Jesus by the local Pharisees{Johns Account 8: 3-11}.  Was it the intent of Jesus to condemn her for her sin?  Make no mistake, this is what the Pharisees were pressing Him to do.  But not Jesus.  Instead, Jesus offered her not condemnation, but forgiveness.  I believe that Jesus did this not only for the benefit of the woman caught in sin, but for all those who were listening as well.  There are many examples of how Jesus chose forgiveness over judgement.  This is the key to telling others about Jesus.  

For thus God loves the world, so that He gives His only - begotten Son, that everyone who is believing in Him should not be perishing, but may be having life eonian.  For God does not dispatch His Son into the world that He should be judging the world, but that the world may be saved through Him. 

Johns Account 3: 16-17, Concordant New Testament 

There's an old saying that you can catch more bees with honey than with vinegar.  You won't find that in any scripture, but it can help us when it comes to telling those around us about Jesus.  Who wants to listen to some self righteous Christian telling them what they should and should not be doing?  Are we not putting judgement upon others when we do that?  Did not Jesus proclaim that we should not judge others?{Matthews Account 7:1-5}.  If I tell someone about that plank in their eye, what plank am I overlooking in my own?  How is my judging others helping them see the love and mercy of Jesus?  In my spare time, I spend a good deal of time at the local gym.  In the time I have been going there, I have developed a few good friendships with other regular attenders.  These are the gym rats.  Many of these know me for my belief in Christ not through my broadcasting it for all to hear, but through casual conversation.  There have been a few who have approached me from time to time asking for prayer for some situation they are facing.  I always assure them that I will do just that.  My goal is not to present to them a Jesus who is critical and condemning, but the true Jesus who shares the love nature of the Father {First Epistle of John 4:8}.  Through my conversations, I've learned that a few of my friends have been hurt by those in the church.  I'm not that guy.  When I speak of Jesus, I want to speak of who He is and not what the mainstream church religious system has made Him into.  Consider this, Jesus came not to judge the world, but to save it {Johns Account 3:16-17}.  This is the Jesus I speak to others. 

Thus let shine your light in front of men, so that they may perceive your ideal acts and should glorify your Father who is in the heavens. 

Matthews Account 5: 16, Concordant New Testament 

~Scott~ 

The Grace Card

 What, then, shall we declare?  That we may be persisting in sin that grace should be increasing?  May it not be coming to that!  We, who died to sin, how shall we still be living in it? 

Paul to the Romans 6: 1-2, Concordant New Testament 

The question arose the other day after the posting of my page on being free in Christ Jesus.  Although I fully intended to address this issue in the future, a good friend asked of me THE question many ask when they are told that sin is no longer the issue.  Are we free now to do whatever we want without fear of the Lords judgement?  Is this our freedom in Jesus?  No!  I believe that the apostle Paul gave the best answer to this question in Romans.  In regards to the issue of sin, "We, who died to sin, how shall we still be living in it?"{Paul to the Romans 6:2}.  Maybe I could have rephrased my words better in my initial post, but I believe that I did well given the circumstances.  As Paul explains, the reason that we are free from the issue of sin is because of the work of Jesus on the cross.  Jesus took our sins upon Himself on that cross {Paul to the Corinthians (2) 5:21}.  Because of this, we are correct to consider ourselves to be dead to sin {Paul to the Romans 6:11}.  Knowing this, consider once again the question I opened this page with.  Being free in Christ Jesus, am I now free to behave any way I want without fear of Gods judgement?  Well, yes.  That's not to say that there doesn't continue to be consequences for what we do, only that, through Jesus, that sin is no longer a concern for us.  So, what is it that we consider sin?  Can our own misbehavior be considered a sin?  Or, is this simply our own forgetting of who we are in Christ?  Many consider their instances of behaving badly to be equal to sin.  Therefore, when I mention that Jesus has now made us free from the bondage of sin there is some confusion.  Is it sin, or simply bad choices?  Whatever it is, we can be assured that we are no longer under its penalty.  Jesus has paid that debt in full.  I've mentioned that I have a friend whose faith is steeped deeply in the Eastern Orthodox religious system.  When I speak to him of our freedom in Christ, he instantly counters that he has done many wrong things.  Remember that our freedom in Christ also frees us from guilt and shame.  For if we have died to sin, what is it that we're now guilty of?  

Who Himself carries up our sins in His body on to the pole, that, coming away from sins, we should be living for righteousness; by Whose welt you were healed. 

Peter to the Dispersion (1) 2: 24, Concordant New Testament 

One of the primary beliefs of the Christian faith is that Jesus died on the cross for the forgiveness of sins.  This is what we supposedly believe.  Yet, if we believe it, why do we not put it into practice?  Why is it that we, as believers, continue to consider sin an issue in our lives?  Do we not believe that Christ Jesus gave Himself for the forgiveness of sins as we have been told?  Sadly, many well meaning believers have lost sight of this truth.  For if we fully understood what Jesus accomplished on the cross, we would also understand the words of Paul which we find in Romans.  If we understood what Jesus has accomplished, we might not even question the Christian "Grace card" which Paul speaks of in Romans 6:1.  I believe that Paul wrote these iconic words to remind us of the truth of what Jesus has accomplished for us.  As believers, we definitely need that reminder.  Our weekly discussion group has been focused on the truth of living in union with Jesus {Johns Account 14:20}.  Yet we also have been reminded that sin is no longer an issue for us.  Freedom in Christ means living without the fear of guilt and shame.  Freedom to me means knowing that sin is no longer a barrier between myself and God.  Thanks to the works of Christ Jesus, I do not need that grace card.  What I DO need is to remember all which He has accomplished.  

For freedom Christ frees us!  Stand firm, then, and be not again enthralled with the yoke of slavery. 

Paul to the Galatians 5: 1, Concordant New Testament  

~Scott~ 

I'm Free!

 For freedom Christ frees us!  Stand firm, then, and be not again enthralled with the yoke of slavery.

Paul to the Galatians 5: 1, Concordant New Testament 

Today is the day where millions of Americans will gather to celebrate their freedom.  Or, at the very least, that perception of freedom.  Today freedom consists of backyard barbeques and evening fireworks.  But I know a different kind of freedom.  One which is not celebrated as much as it should be.  This is my freedom in Christ Jesus.  The apostle Paul, who himself was set free on that road to Damascus, proclaims that it is indeed Jesus who has freed us {Paul to the Galatians 5:1}.  Yet saying that Christ has freed us is one thing, but what does it mean?  Well, what is it that you would consider your biggest barrier between yourself and God?  Now, I would suggest that there is no barrier between us, but many well meaning believers think otherwise.  For many Christians, the belief that their sin stands between them and God is an ever present concern.  Therefore, they offer up prayers to God many times each and every day seeking His forgiveness for the trespasses they believe they have committed.  I have a friend, entrenched in the Eastern Orthodox religious system, who constantly worries if he will be forgiven the acts which he feels are keeping him from God.  The little white lies, the impure thoughts and such.  I can honestly say that I've been in his shoes.  Being raised in the mainstream Christian church system, I was constantly made aware that my sin was ever before me.  That even after accepting Christ Jesus as my Lord and Savior, that I was simply a sinner saved by grace.  My friends, THAT is not freedom.  It is being enslaved to something which we have been freed from.  Freedom in Christ means that my sin is no longer looming before me, keeping me from the presence of the Lord.  In Christ, I'm free!  Paul proclaims to us in Romans that we be recking ourselves to be "Dead, indeed, to sin" {Paul to the Romans 6:11}.  For it is Jesus who Himself became sin on our behalf {Paul to the Corinthians (2) 5:21}.  If you are a believer, take heed of these scriptures!  Paul also tells us that Jesus gave Himself one time for all humanity {Paul to the Romans 6:10}.  Paul's words we find in Romans are some of the most powerful ever spoken that we no longer need to be concerned over sin.  That debt has been paid on the cross by Jesus.  

Nothing, consequently, is now condemnation for those in Christ Jesus.  Not according to the flesh are they walking, but according to spirit, for the spirit's law of life in Christ Jesus frees you from the law of sin and death. 

Paul to the Romans 8: 1-2, Concordant New Testament 

When I was concerned over how God looked upon my sin, I suffered from something else.  That being my own guilt and shame.  For guilt and shame go hand in hand with sin.  Again, this IS NOT freedom in Jesus.  When I was all too aware of my sin and how God looked upon me, I lived as a slave to my own belief.  I was bound to it.  Again, the words of Paul assure us that the sacrifice of Jesus upon the cross means that we are "By no means to be still slaving for sin" {Paul to the Romans 6:6}.  We no longer need to be living in the guilt and shame of what we believe to be our sin, because Christ has already taken care of that.  Think about this, if you were to come before the Lord God and ask Him to forgive your sin which you were so certain you still carried with you, you might just be surprised by His response to your request.  That being, what sin?  See, in Gods eyes, the sin which may believe we are still bound to, has already been dealt with.  That means all sin, past, present and future.  Remember, Jesus died to sin ONCE for all time.  He didn't miss anything!  To realize your life in union with Christ and the Father is to realize our freedom in Christ Jesus {Johns Account 14:20}.  There is no longer any sin which gets in the way of our union with Him.  This is freedom in Christ to me, that we no longer suffer bondage to sin and live in confidence free from guilt and shame.  We live as Jesus.  

Jesus, then, said to the Jews who have believed in Him, "If ever you should be remaining in My word, you are truly My disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will be making you free."

Johns Account 8: 31-32, Concordant New Testament 

~Scott~ 

The Man Jesus

 In the world He was, and the world came into being through Him, and the world knew Him not.  To His own He came, and those who are His own accepted Him not.

Johns Account 1: 10-11, Concordant New Testament 

One of the main reasons that I love The Chosen series is because of the life of Jesus and His disciples which the viewer gets to see.  For so long, I have lamented the fact that there is precious little scriptural documentation of the boy Jesus.  We have little record of the development and maturing of the boy Jesus into the man Jesus.  The chosen series attempts to bridge that gap.  Some might be offended by the Jesus which they see in this series.  Jesus with a backpack?  C'mon man!  But I say, why not?  People of His time undoubtedly found ways to carry things, right?  We know through history of the culture that people tied baskets to their backs, so why is it inconceivable that Jesus would have something such as this?  Of course, that was just one of the criticisms of this series.  But I believe that Dallas Jenkins, one of the creators, has done a beautiful job in this depiction of the life and times of Jesus.  The apostle Paul tells us that Jesus was born in the likeness of men {Paul to the Philippians 2:7}.  Paul also proclaims that the entire fullness of God dwells in the body of Jesus {Paul to the Colossians 2:9}.  The man Jesus, fully God and fully man.  So, how does knowing this Jesus help us?  Well, it helps us to understand that Jesus is as we are.  Despite having the deity of God, He was born in the flesh image of man.  I am as Jesus is.  Also, we have rarely seen the interaction between Jesus and His disciples besides that which we see in the scriptures.  It is obvious to assume that Jesus and His disciples talked, prayed, argued and wept together.  After all, Jesus spent a good portion of 4 years with these men in His life.  We can't assume that everything was perfect for them each day.  Jesus struggled with the belief of the men who followed Him.  Those same men vied for positions of prestige in the Lords coming kingdom {Marks Account 10: 35-45}.  This soon turned into a lesson in humility for James and John.  This was, and is, the Jesus His followers saw each day.  But why is it so difficult for some to see Jesus in this way?  I found the answer to this in a conversation I had with a friend the other day.  

For let this disposition be in you, which is in Christ Jesus also, Who, being inherently in the form of God, deems it not pillaging to be equal with God, nevertheless empties Himself, taking the form of a slave, coming to be in the likeness of humanity, and, being found in fashion as a human, He humbles Himself, becoming obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 

Paul to the Philippians 2: 5-8, Concordant New Testament 

The other day I was in a conversation with a friend and the topic of the chosen series came up.  I expressed how much I liked its presentation of the relationship between Jesus and His followers, but my friend wasn't convinced.  He found it difficult to believe that the man Jesus would interact so fluidly with sinful man.  That Jesus, being our holy Savior, would have been more of an overseer to these disciples.  Of course, this represents the theology spoken by the mainstream church of the separation of God and man.  This is the lie spoken by the deceiver in the garden {Genesis 3:5-6}.  We're told that Jesus did not come to the world to condemn, but to save {Johns Account 3:16-17}.  Through our conversation, I was able to get my friend to consider the reality of Jesus.  Knowing that many consider Jesus to be holy is one thing, but to believe that He would not be in the presence of mankind is false teaching IMO.  We know that God presented Jesus unto us in the form of a man.  We know that Jesus, being fully human, lived His life as we do.  Again, it is for this reason that I love the chosen series.  It presents Jesus in a way few have seen before.  The everyday Jesus.  I believe that knowing this can also help us with understanding our own identity.  Jesus speaks to our union with Himself and the Father {Johns Account 14:20}.  We know that through Him all came into being {Johns Account 1:3}.  Jesus is indeed a part of us today.  We live each and every day as Him.  

~Scott~