tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15582663386705372522024-02-20T10:09:06.820-08:00New Creations UMCPastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.comBlogger241125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-87183007892909487592008-11-21T07:07:00.000-08:002008-11-24T07:28:04.415-08:001 Peter 3I always struggle with the verses about slaves obeying masters and wives being weaker vessels and submitting. I know some of the material is cultural and I understand that "submission implies volition". I also understand that for their era Paul and Jesus and even Peter were world changers in the way they included women in their ministries and inner circles - but I still struggle.<br /><br />Verse 8 finally offers me a place of equal footing where I can nod my head and feel more comfortable, <strong>"Finally, all of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind."</strong> 1 Peter 3:8. I could spend the rest of my life living in to verse 8.<br /><br />My daughter and I had an interesting discussion last night that led us to this verse, <strong>"Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you; 16 yet do it with gentleness and reverence. Keep your conscience clear, so that, when you are maligned, those who abuse you for your good conduct in Christ may be put to shame."</strong> 1 Peter 3 :15b-16 NRSV. My daughter was concerned about some of her friends and the sin they were living in. She wondered how to go about pointing out their errors without turning the away. i suggested that she love them. I know the temptation and the desire to argue people into the Kingdom. I have never found this to be effective. I compared it to trying to fish with a frying pan. not very good bait! But the unconditional love of God, now that is what I am after! I wish the church that represents Jesus would turn to his life of love and live into that model.<br /><br />Chapter 3 ends with some interesting ideas to chase down. <strong>"For Christ also suffered for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, in order to bring you to God. He was put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit, in which also he went and made a proclamation to the spirits in prison, who in former times did not obey, when God waited patiently in the days of Noah, during the building of the ark, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were saved through water. And baptism, which this prefigured, now saves you--not as a removal of dirt from the body, but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers made subject to him."</strong> 1 Peter 3:18-22 NRSV. It is interesting to me that Christ went and proclaimed the gospel to those in "prison" that had been disobedient! Grace beyond the grave is a fascinating concept, don't you think! Peter shows the limitless power of Jesus and his love expressed through grace to all people here.Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-40854821381853931362008-11-20T06:55:00.000-08:002008-11-24T07:07:16.197-08:001 Peter 2It seems to be grumpy season in the church I pastor. People that usually would not say an unkind word are striking out verbally at others - the normal gossip and struggles also continue. i find it interesting that Peter felt it necessary to address these things in his day as well. His call is helpful to our congregations today i think,<strong> "Rid yourselves, therefore, of all malice, and all guile, insincerity, envy, and all slander." </strong>1 Peter 2:1 NRSV. Nothing good comes of the backbiting and slander that is common in many people groups. I pray that God will keep our folks from hurting each other in these hard times.<br /><br />This chapter of 1 Peter is one of my very favorite chapters in the Bible. (I know, I know...). I love the words of Peter as he describes our position and condition here, <strong>"But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's own people, in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are God's people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy."</strong> 1 Peter 2:9-10 NRSV. I wonder if we will ever understand who we really are in Christ? and if we can't imagine our own new position, how will we realize the precious position others have in Christ? I think if we could grasp this, it might change everything.<br /><br />I believe the rest of the call in this chapter is impossible unless we understand the initial premise - that we are a chosen race, a royal priesthood...<br /><br />I also marvel at these verses, <strong>"When he was abused, he did not return abuse; when he suffered, he did not threaten; but he entrusted himself to the one who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that, free from sins, we might live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed. For you were going astray like sheep, but now you have returned to the shepherd and guardian of your souls."</strong> 1 Peter 2:23-25 NRSV. I will meditate on these verses today and I pray that God will use them to change my heart and make me more like Jesus!Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-73489718732445498042008-11-19T17:49:00.000-08:002008-11-19T18:05:39.969-08:001 Peter 1It is interesting to read an epistle or letter from someone other than Paul. Peter, one of my favorites, has a markedly different style and approach from <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Paul</span>. Their lives traveled significantly different paths to Jesus and I enjoy the variety!<br /><br />Peter starts off with a humble <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">introduction</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">simply</span> calling himself an apostle of Jesus Christ. And then speaks words of encouragement to the saints who had been scattered from their homes. He reminds them that they are chosen and loved by God, <strong>"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! By his great mercy he has given us a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you,"</strong> 1 Peter 1:3-4 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">NRSV</span>. When I read Peter's words I see him as a good coach, reminding the troops of who and whose we are. It is VERY helpful and encouraging to me!<br /><br />Hi coaching and encouragement continues with a call to readiness when he says, <strong>"Therefore prepare your minds for action; discipline yourselves; set all your hope on the grace that Jesus Christ will bring you when he is revealed. Like obedient children, do not be conformed to the desires that you formerly had in ignorance. Instead, as he who called you is holy, be holy yourselves in all your conduct;"</strong> 1 Peter 1 :13-15 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">NRSV</span>. What a great reminder and a simple call - be holy!<br /><br />I have found the scripture here that I will meditate on today - maybe for a few days. <strong>"Through him you have come to trust in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are set on God."</strong> 1 Peter 1:2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">NRSV</span>. It reminds me to set my faith and hope on God and God alone. I sometimes place my trust and faith in wrong things, and then I wonder why they break my heart. Lord, help me today to set my heart and faith on you alone!Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-44569949150109171032008-11-18T15:39:00.000-08:002008-11-18T15:58:48.333-08:00Titus 3As Paul wraps up this letter to Titus he reminds him, and us, to have the following traits in our ministries and in our lives, <strong>"Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show every courtesy to everyone."</strong> Titus 3:1-2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">NRSV</span>.<br /><br />I remember when I was preparing to marry my wife 25 years ago, my father encouraged me to be kind to her. I remember clearly smiling and nodding my head at that advice, but secretly I thought, "What is he talking about? Isn't there better advice than that for a terrified young groom?" Now, years later, I wish I had taken that advice to heart. I regret the times I was unkind to my wife. Don't get me wrong, I was never horrible, but I wish I had been kinder. This memory causes me to take another look at this seemingly simplistic council from Paul. <strong>"Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show every courtesy to everyone." </strong>Titus 3:1-2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">NRSV</span>.<br /><br />Paul seems to have a better balance of works and grace here as Titus closes, <strong>"so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. The saying is sure. I desire that you insist on these things, so that those who have come to believe in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works; these things are excellent and profitable to everyone</strong>." Titus 3:7-8 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">NRSV</span>.<br /><br />Paul's closing counsel and personal notes give us a glimpse into the personal side of his ministry. I love how he takes care to order the life of the church - to provide for relief workers to free Titus up, to make sure Apollos and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Zenas</span> are well provided for. When I was younger, the administrative side of the church, the "order" was a nuisance and the last thing I cared to do. As I have grown older and my ministry has grown, I see the blessing of good administration and find it pleasurable to do. Who would ever have thought I'd have said and meant those words!Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-50283808212631448142008-11-17T10:34:00.000-08:002008-11-17T10:47:59.227-08:00Titus 2In the second chapter, Paul continues to give Titus instructions to share with the different people groups in the church in Crete. His advice, taken as a whole, is good counsel for all of us today. The cultural differences between men and women has changed, but the need to encourage people to be <strong>"temperate, serious, prudent, and sound in faith, in love, and in endurance," "reverent in behavior, not to be slanderers or slaves to drink; they are to teach what is good," "love their husbands, to love their children, to be self-controlled, chaste, good managers of the household, kind,".</strong> Titus 2 selected verses NRSV, has not changed.<br /><br />Paul encourages slaves to be submissive and hard workers acting in this way as "ornaments to the doctrine of God our savior". I understand the call Paul makes as centered in his view of eschatology and grace, but I do not like it. I can not imagine encouraging a person to "be a good slave". Perhaps I need to focus on Paul calling people to be a good witness in whatever various conditions they find themselves in.<br /><br />Paul's only focus is the soon coming Kingdom of God. All else, including his own safety and comfort are of little concern to Paul. I am far too concerned with comfort and justice I suppose and preoccupied with carnal things. Lord, help me to have a heart and eye for your Kingdom and your designs and not simply my own comfort.Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-39174681588013157392008-11-14T13:56:00.000-08:002008-11-15T14:00:41.164-08:00Titus 1Paul’s introduction of himself in Titus is a bit unusual and worth noting. Paul begins by saying, <strong>“Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ, for the sake of the faith of God's elect and the knowledge of the truth that is in accordance with godliness, in the hope of eternal life that God, who never lies, promised before the ages began-- in due time he revealed his word through the proclamation with which I have been entrusted by the command of God our Savior,”</strong> Titus 1:1-3 NRSV. Paul, a servant, an apostle for the sake of faith and knowledge of truth and godliness as entrusted by the command of God. WOW.<br /><br />This epistle is written to another on of Paul’s children in the faith - Titus. Titus was left behind in Crete by Paul, <strong>“that you should put in order what remained to be done, and should appoint elders in every town, as I directed you:”</strong> Titus 1:5b.<br /><br />An Elder was an over seer that had specific duties and qualifications. They are as follows, <strong>“someone who is blameless, married only once, whose children are believers, not accused of debauchery and not rebellious. For a bishop, as God's steward, must be blameless; he must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or addicted to wine or violent or greedy for gain; but he must be hospitable, a lover of goodness, prudent, upright, devout, and self-controlled. He must have a firm grasp of the word that is trustworthy in accordance with the teaching, so that he may be able both to preach with sound doctrine and to refute those who contradict it."</strong> Titus 1:6-9 NRSV. Quite a list of requirements for a job that will lead to poverty and persecution, don’t you think?<br /><br />Paul speaks very harshly about those from Crete or the Cretans as he calls them. Paul quotes a Philosopher from Crete named Epimenides when he says, <strong>"Cretans are always liars, vicious brutes, lazy gluttons."</strong> Titus 1:12b. I do not believe this blanket statement to be true, but it shows the heart of Paul when he coaches Titus to impose harsh discipline in the church to make sure the lesser nature of the people was straightened out.<br /><br />From this first chapter it seems Titus is caught in a tough ministry field, surrounded by Cretans and opposed by Judaisers. Makes me glad I am in Boonville surrounded by the folks I call my neighbors!Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-80352486236131776692008-11-13T13:55:00.000-08:002008-11-15T13:56:40.396-08:002 Thessalonians 3As Paul closes his last letter to the Thessalonians he asks them to pray for him, <strong>“so that the word of the Lord may spread rapidly and be glorified everywhere, just as it is among you, 2 and that we may be rescued from wicked and evil people; for not all have faith.”</strong> 2 Thessalonians 3:1a-2 NRSV. There was a time a few years ago when I had an excellent prayer team surrounding me and upholding me in prayer. I miss that spiritual cover, and I can understand why Paul asks for prayer. I have noticed that as these days seem to get harder for people, many of us also seem to get meaner! Please pray for all leaders and all of the saints that God would protect us and keep us in peace.<br /><br />Paul warns against idleness and again refers to the fact that he received no salary - even though he had the right to receive one - from the Thessalonians. This model of ministry is very, very appealing to me. Perhaps my next appointment I will plant a church as a bi-vocational minister. This not only frees up the resources of the congregation, it also increases the responsibility of every member to be in ministry. Sounds like fun from this vantage point!<br /><br />After a closing call for peace for all of the saints, Paul points out the signature in his own hand, thus verifying the authenticity of the letter.Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-84170357304267749752008-11-12T13:23:00.000-08:002008-11-15T13:24:48.754-08:002 Thessalonians 2Paul speaks again here about the Second coming of Christ. Some apparently had been deceived and had been told that Christ had already returned. Paul tells them that this in nonsense and can not occur until the one who is restraining the lawless on is removed. I believe the one restraining the lawless on is Holy Spirit. Holy Spirit is the civilizing restraining one that Wesley referred to when he spoke of Prevenient Grace. This prevenient or preventing grace keeps us and all humanity from sliding in to the depths of carnality. According to Paul, when this restraint is removed, the Lawless one will be revealed.<br /><br />The deception will be complete when, <strong>“For this reason God sends them a powerful delusion, leading them to believe what is false, so that all who have not believed the truth but took pleasure in unrighteousness will be condemned.”</strong> 2 Thessalonians 2:11-12. Lord, save us from taking pleasure in what is unrighteous and draw us by your Spirit to love your kingdom.<br /><br />Paul encourages them and us to strengthen our resolve to live in the faith that we have received and not to compromise with the world. How many places and in how many ways have we adapted ourselves to the worlds wisdom and turned from the gospel? Lord, where have I become either a Pharisee or a hedonist in my walk?Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-2743421617351786482008-11-11T13:21:00.000-08:002008-11-15T13:23:30.210-08:002 Thessalonians 1Paul’s second letter to the church in Thessalonica begins with encouragement and love. Paul assures the church that they are widely respected and that he talks about their faithfulness in all of his travels.<br /><br />Paul reminds the Thessalonians that all of us who follow Christ should expect tribulations in this world, and that we must always be ready to support others who suffer and ready to endure suffering ourselves.<br /><br />Paul encourages them by assuring them that when Christ returns the wretches who are tormenting them will also be tormented and punished in hellish finality. Perhaps it is because I am not being persecuted that this does not sound appealing to me. I wonder why the demise of others -- even those that harm us -- is held up as a desired end to the struggle.<br /><br />How often do I buy into the desire for vengeance instead of leaning into the mind of Christ and begging for their forgiveness and salvation? I know the context of Paul’s appeal is dire, and I know that I live in the lap of luxury, but I still want to see Christ as Lord of every life.Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-65930624020352267612008-11-10T13:19:00.000-08:002008-11-15T13:21:39.407-08:001 Thessalonians 5This week we will finish the epistles to the Thessalonians and start in on Titus. Please read; Monday -- 1 Thessalonians 5, Tuesday -- 2 Thessalonians 1, Wednesday -- 2 Thessalonians 2, Thursday -- 2 Thessalonians 3, and Friday -- Titus 1.<br /><br />As Paul closes this letter he chooses not to speculate on the end times. He says, <strong>“Now concerning the times and the seasons, brothers and sisters, you do not need to have anything written to you. For you yourselves know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. When they say, "There is peace and security," then sudden destruction will come upon them, as labor pains come upon a pregnant woman, and there will be no escape!”</strong> 1 Thessalonians 5:1-3 NRSV. Even Paul, perhaps one of the greatest authorities on Old Testament prophesy, a man who had been caught up to heaven, didn’t presume to know when the Lord would return. Isn’t it a bit presumptuous for us to?<br /><br />Paul’s call to the Thessalonians is my call to you, stay awake, live ready for the coming of the Lord, lest it surprise you and catch you unprepared.<br /><br />Paul’s closing admonitions to the church are worth reading over and over again, <strong>“But we appeal to you, brothers and sisters, to respect those who labor among you, and have charge of you in the Lord and admonish you; esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves. And we urge you, beloved, to admonish the idlers, encourage the faint hearted, help the weak, be patient with all of them. See that none of you repays evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to all. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise the words of prophets, but test everything; hold fast to what is good; abstain from every form of evil.”</strong> 1 Thessalonians 5:12-22 NRSV.Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-17907402041768367262008-11-07T09:41:00.000-08:002008-11-15T09:43:35.111-08:001 Thessalonians 4In the first half of chapter 4, Paul encourages us to live lives full of righteousness. We have been called to righteousness and not to lust and greed. Paul encourages us to live gentle, self contained lives so that we are able to help others and represent God well.<br /><br />Paul next transitions to speak about the eternal life we wait for. He says, <strong>“But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about those who have died, so that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope.” </strong>1 Thessalonians 4:13 NRSV. Notice that Paul does not say that we do not grieve, he says we do not grieve <em>as those who have no hope</em>! A Christian will absolutely mourn the death of loved ones, but we morn in faith, knowing that we will see them again!<br /><br />The controversial doctrine in the church of “rapture is addressed briefly here. <strong>“For the Lord himself, with a cry of command, with the archangel's call and with the sound of God's trumpet, will descend from heaven, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up in the clouds together with them to meet the Lord in the air; and so we will be with the Lord forever.” </strong>1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 NRSV. What a ride that will be! We who are alive when Christ returns will be caught up in the clouds with the Lord. Let me say here that I do not pretend to know when this will happen, I only believe the Bible says here that it will. I am in sales, not management and I believe that some of these particulars are left in the hands of God alone -- right where it belongs!Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-4875603598237246722008-11-06T09:39:00.000-08:002008-11-15T09:41:21.435-08:001 Thessalonians 3Paul speaks here about the anxiety he felt for the Christians in Thessalonica over his own suffering. As he suffered persecution, he could not help worrying about the saints in Thessalonica and their faith life. He therefore sent Timothy to check on them, and he was delighted at Timothy’s good report.<br /><br />Paul says he is not surprised by the suffering and persecution he has faced, and they should not be surprised either. Paul forewarned them that this was bound to happen, and now it has.<br /><br />What expectations do you have about your journey of faith? Do we expect that everything will be easy and that we will be popular for standing up for the Gospel? If that is what we expect, on what do we base that expectation? It seems to me, that the only real glimpse we receive from Christ on our future in this life does not lend itself to these expectations! If we have been promised by Jesus that the world will hate us just like it hated him, if we hear him say <strong>“In the world you face persecution. But take courage; I have conquered the world!"</strong> John 16:33b, why would we presume the opposite?<br /><br />Lord, help me today to gain a realistic view of the call that I am trying to live into.Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-77195083027821958682008-11-05T09:37:00.000-08:002008-11-15T09:39:17.661-08:001 Thessalonians 2Paul speaks to the church in Thessalonica with an intimacy that rivals the love letter of Philippians. Paul reminds them that he made no demands on them when he came preaching, and that they received him in the same love.<br /><br />Paul labored night and day, so as not to be a burden on the saints. Paul worked to earn a living and ministered as well. This “tent making ministry” may become more common in the future as the economy worsens and the cost of supporting a full time pastor goes up. Many churches already either share a pastor, or have a part time pastor that works a “secular” job.<br /><br />I think I can feel the love that Paul has for these churches after pastoring here in Boonville for 18 years. It is hard to move from church to church in the itinerant system that I am a member of, and so it is tempting to keep ones heart from being broken by keeping a professional distance on some level. I have loved all of the churches I have pastored, but the Boonville church has my heart.Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-81293515566087674032008-11-04T09:35:00.000-08:002008-11-15T09:37:26.371-08:001 Thessalonians 1Paul’s opening address to the church in Thessalonica offers us a glimpse into the success he had there. Paul says that their faithfulness is so widely known that they don’t even need to mention it any more! Paul writes, <strong>“in every place your faith in God has become known, so that we have no need to speak about it.”</strong> 1 Thessalonians 1:8b NRSV.<br /><br />Paul says that when the gospel was preached there it came not only with words, but with power and the Holy Spirit’s conviction. I often wonder what power accompanies our preaching today. The New Testament records often that the preaching was followed by “signs and wonders” that led to great harvests of souls. I will pray today for a deeper vision of what God might be waiting to do among us if we would just let God.Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-86943210901518080592008-11-03T09:33:00.000-08:002008-11-15T09:35:26.428-08:00Colossians 4Chapter 4 is interesting in the names and contexts we see in Paul’s farewell. Paul begins by encouraging, “<strong>Masters, treat your slaves justly and fairly, for you know that you also have a Master in heaven.”</strong> Colossians 4:1 NRSV, and then down in verse 9 mentions that Onesimus, the runaway slave from Philemon fame, is coming to see them.<br /><br />He also tells them to expect Mark, the cousin of Barnabas, and to welcome him. Mark had been at odds with Paul earlier in the mission field and it is interesting to me that Paul makes note that he desires Mark to be treated well.<br /><br />This conclusion helps me to remember that these are real men and women living and growing and maturing just like us!Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-29091575244191990792008-10-31T09:32:00.000-07:002008-11-15T09:33:44.724-08:00Colosians 3Hide and Seek. Have you ever played that childhood game? I played a lot of hide and seek as a kid in Westernville with my friends. The game progressed and changed over the years. The field of play grew, and then we moved the game to twilight and darkness, then to the cemetery. We played hide and go seek with odd abandon.<br /><br />The game changed again when I was about 26 or 27. My wife and I had babies! I began to crawl around the living room and call to the kids to come find me - I would often have 3/4’s of my body sticking out from behind the couch or a curtain and I would call to them until they got the fun of the hunt!<br /><br />The game has changed again. Turns out the real me is playing hide and seek with me - the real you too! People seek for “themselves” in the oddest places. In popularity and riches, in drugs and alcohol, in stuff, in people’s opinions. We need to turn people around and invite them to play, <strong>“So if you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth, for you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.”</strong> Colossians 3:1-3 NRSV.Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-77521137026810542552008-10-30T09:30:00.000-07:002008-11-15T09:32:06.524-08:00Colossians 2In this chapter, Paul continues to encourage the people of Colossae to remain true to the orthodoxy of faith in Christ. He continues to write from a very high Christology when he reminds them, <strong>“For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily,”</strong> Colossians 2:9 NRSV.<br /><br />Paul gives the clearest connection here between the old practice of physical circumcision and baptism when he writes,<strong> “In him also you were circumcised with a spiritual circumcision, by putting off the body of the flesh in the circumcision of Christ; when you were buried with him in baptism, you were also raised with him through faith in the power of God, who raised him from the dead.”</strong> Colossians 2:11-12 NRSV. This text also lends itself to the discussion about infant baptism. Just as infant males were historically circumcised, so infants were traditionally baptized.<br /><br />Paul speaks about the freedom from dead rituals we now enjoy by calling us not to be taken captive, <strong>“Therefore do not let anyone condemn you in matters of food and drink or of observing festivals, new moons, or sabbaths.”</strong> Colossians 2:16 NRSV.<br /><br />As Paul continues to question why we submit to human laws now that we have been set free, I have to ask myself where am I living in bondage to human regulations, and where am I inflicting rules and regulations, that are not of God? I wonder if I even know how to live free.Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-81955890495726875912008-10-29T20:16:00.000-07:002008-11-03T20:38:55.777-08:00Colossians 1A careful reading of the first few verses of this letter to the church ion Colossae reveals a few important points. It seems that this is not a fellowship that Paul planted. It is widely assumed that Epahroditus planted the church in Colossae. Paul has heard of their faith and he writes these words of encouragement. Many scholars believe that this letter was not written by Paul at all, but by one of his disciples who penned it in his name.<br /><br />If all we had from this letter was the view expressed about the Deity of Jesus it would be enough to secure its place in the schools of theology. The Christology expressed here, <strong>"He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation; for in him all things in heaven and on earth were created, things visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or powers--all things have been created through him and for him. He himself is before all things, and in him all things$ hold together. He is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that he might come to have first place in everything. For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him God was pleased to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, by making peace through the blood of his cross."</strong> Colossians 1:15-20 NRSV, is more significant than I can easily express here. Read it again, and think about the claims made here about Jesus.<br /><br />Finally, the close of chapter 1 impairs that this letter was written from prison. Paul's suffering, both the physical and emotional and spiritual are amazing.Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-64536529889202987402008-10-28T19:36:00.000-07:002008-11-03T19:57:33.579-08:00Philippians 4As we finish our read through Paul's letter to the church in Philippi, I wonder if you have noticed how many "favorite" verses there are in these 4 chapters. It has been hard not to comment on every one of them, and this 4th chapter is no easier!<br /><br />When I was in seminary, Shari (my wife) and I were struggling to live on practically nothing. I was serving 2 churches, we were newly weds, i was a full time student, and we were having babies! All of this on no money. At the height of our struggle we stumbled across these verses, <strong>"Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you."</strong> Philippians 4:6-9 NRSV. I remember hurrying home and reading those words with Shari. We took paper and markers and put several posters of these scriptures where we would see them all during the day. In a real way, these verses were, and still are, a life raft for us.<br /><br />Believe me, I know that Paul's circumstances were far more bleak that ours, but his call to thanksgiving, and peace, and later proclaiming that he could do all things through Christ (vs 13) inspired us and inspires me still!<br /><br />It has been refreshing to read through these words again especially now as our economy and country in general are spinning. As we head into next months election these words give me a calm assurance that my hope is not in any politician, or in my feeble righteousness, but my hope is built on nothing less than Jesus blood and righteousness!Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-15965670758779774322008-10-27T18:10:00.000-07:002008-11-03T20:04:41.848-08:00Philippians 3This week we will complete our read through the book of Philippians and move on to Colossians. Please read; Philippians 3 - Monday, Philippians 4 - Tuesday, Colossians 1 - Wednesday, Colossians 2 - Thursday, and Colossians 3 - Friday.<br /><br />Paul briefly addresses the "Judaisers" or those of the "Circumcision", as he called them. They were the Jewish preachers that followed Paul and tried to change the Gospel that he preached. Paul cautions the Philippians to watch out for these "dogs" and not fall for their preaching.<br /><br />To show his superiority, or at least to display the vantage point from which he spoke Paul gives this description of his worldly credentials, <strong>"If anyone else has reason to be confident in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, a member of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew born of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the law, blameless."</strong> Philippians 3:4b-6 NRSV. Very impressive credentials indeed! Don't miss the last one, "under the law, blameless." it is only my opinion that this isn't boasting by Paul, but an accurate appraisal.<br /><br />All of this, he says, he now counts as "rubbish", or more closely translated - dung. impressive that after all of the effort to live a seemingly righteous life Paul says it was all a bunch of - manure. He realizes that even after a lifetime of his best effort, he had no righteousness, save the righteousness given to him by Christ.<br /><br />I remember when I was in college finding Philippians 3:16, <strong>"Only let us hold fast to what we have attained."</strong> It became one of my favorite verses because of it's simplicity. yet in 30 years I have been unable to live into it. Today I will try again to live up to what I have already obtained, I will live in grace.Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-54560486250470090032008-10-24T05:36:00.000-07:002008-11-01T05:56:53.988-07:00Philippians 2This second chapter of Paul's letter tot he church in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Philippi</span> is rich in theology and very valuable for practical application. It begins with more encouragement for the church in dangerous and trying times, <strong>"If then there is any encouragement in Christ, any consolation from love, any sharing in the Spirit, any compassion and sympathy, make my joy complete: be of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility regard others as better than yourselves. Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others."</strong> Philippians 2:1-4 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">NRSV</span>. These would be good words to live by today!<br /><br />Verses 6 through 11 seem to be a first century hymn or poem. They communicate a deep theology about the humility and sacrifice of our Lord Jesus. he was in the very nature God, yet did not exploit that position but humbled himself. Humility is misunderstood and misappropriated by most people in our world. Self hate and false humility surround us, and it makes real humility hard to spot and because there are so few practicing humility, there are not many people to follow or emulate. I am convinced that humility is NOT thinking less of ones self, but thinking about ones self less. There are days, still, when I am (in my own mind) the center of all things. When I climb off that throne, or get knocked off, humility begins to be possible.<br /><br /><strong>"Do all things without murmuring and arguing, so that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, in which you shine like stars in the world."</strong> Philippians 2:14-15 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">NRSV</span>. This call by Paul should be preached in every church! I do not feel it is a pressing need right now in the New Creations Mission to preach from here right now, but I have used these words as a text many, many times. What a beautiful thing to see the church working and playing together without murmuring or arguing. We can accomplish so much together when we approach our tasks in gentle humility!<br /><br />I am touched by the intimacy of Paul's words when he speaks of Timothy and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Epaphroditus</span>. I know a but about the fatherly love he expresses here and the pride he feels for the young people that follow him as he follows Christ.Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-47482025110759064932008-10-23T05:12:00.000-07:002008-11-01T05:36:05.811-07:00Philippians 1Paul's letter to the church in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Philippi</span> is the most loving and gentle of all of his letters. As we read through, you may notice that Paul does not scold or limit the Philippians in any way. Philippians has always been one of my favorite letters of Paul, perhaps because it is positive and hopeful.<br /><br />Each chapter is packed with powerful, intimate sharing from Paul to his friends in the faith. The opening <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">address</span> is an immediate encouragement to me - <strong>"I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now. I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ."</strong> Philippians 1:3-6 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">NRSV</span>. <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">These</span> words have carried me through some hard days, knowing that the one who began a good work in me would <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">complete</span> it reminds me that my life is now bracketed by grace! I begin, live and end in the hands of God and in the embrace of Grace. Thanks be to God.<br /><br />Paul tries to encourage and bolster the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Philippians</span> in the face of the sorrow of his imprisonment and suffering. He says that this imprisonment is turning out to be a blessing! Many are more bold in their proclamation of the gospel, and even many of the guards are finding faith! Some, he says, are preaching the Gospel with bad motives, but what <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">difference</span> does it make if the word is proclaimed.<br /><br />I am inspired by Paul's spirituality in the face of his suffering. He is looking at his life from the vantage point of eternity and not mired in the moment. This is a great call and a great challenge for me. I believe that my eternal life has already begun, and my citizenship is in heaven. However, I often live as if there is no other Kingdom than the temporal powers and my <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">allegiances</span> seem wobbly! I need to hear and say with Paul, <strong>"For to me, living is Christ and dying is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which I prefer. I am hard pressed between the two: my desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better; but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for you. Since I am convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with all of you for your progress and joy in faith, so that I may share abundantly in your boasting in Christ Jesus when I come to you again."</strong> Philippians 1:21-26 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">NRSV</span>.<br /><br />We live in the midst of a broken world, and we must engage it and work to offer <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">these</span> in our influence Christ. Ultimately, I am a citizen of the Kingdom of God. Amassing wealth or worries here seems a dis-service to God.Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-88748599005256184112008-10-22T08:37:00.000-07:002008-10-24T09:26:37.699-07:00Matthew 28The resurrection report and post resurrection account is even faster than the passion. We find the women going to the tomb on Resurrection Sunday, and another great earthquake shakes the land. An angel descends and rolls away the stone from the tomb. The guards pass out at the glory of the angels appearing, but he speaks gently to the women and shows them the empty tomb. Pretty neat that the stone wasn't rolled away to let Jesus out, it was rolled away to let us in!<br /><br />On their way to tell the disciples of the resurrection, Jesus appears to the women! They worship him and cling to him (unlike in John's account when he tells them not to touch him). The guards also make their way back to the city and report to the Pharisees all that had happened. They are bought off, and told to spread a story that the disciples had come and taken the body.<br /><br />Jesus appears to the disciples on the mountain, and it seems like Matthew jumps 40 days ahead to the Ascension account in Luke's gospel. The Great Commission is a better ending to this read through Matthew than I can write myself, so here it is! <strong>"And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age."</strong> Matthew 28:18-20 NRSV.Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-1202022229132973392008-10-21T07:06:00.000-07:002008-10-24T07:52:08.791-07:00Matthew 27Jesus' trial in Matthew's gospel takes place in one venue. He is not paraded off to Herod and back as in the other gospel accounts. Pilate is the Governor of Jerusalem and he has the power to order a death sentence for Jesus, and this is what the religious leaders desire.<br /><br />Matthew's gospel says that when Judas realizes that Jesus is condemned he repents. Our church history has damned Judas almost without exception. I wonder as I read the text if Judas repentance was any different than King David's or Moses repentance. I wonder if Judas might have been forgiven just like you and me.<br /><br />While Jesus stands before Pilate he remains silent before all of the charges. Pilate's wife sends word to him to have nothing to do with punishing this innocent man, because she had spent the night in torment over this situation. Pilate tries to turn the crowds, but ultimately Pilate is a politician and gives in to the will of the masses. And so Jesus is sentenced to crucifixion.<br /><br />The passion narrative is merciful in its brevity when compared to John's gospel. It is hard for me not to add the other things I know of the story to this reading. As they make their way to Golgotha the cumulative effects of the beatings he has endured weaken Jesus to the point that a man in the crowd - Simon of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Cyrene</span> - is compelled to carry the cross for Jesus.<br /><br />Once on Golgotha the crucify our Lord. Jesus cries out only two times in this narrative - the first time he says,<strong> "And about three o'clock Jesus cried with a loud voice, "Eli, Eli, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">lema</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">sabachthani</span>?" that is, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"</strong> Matthew 27:46 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">NRSV</span>. This may be Jesus quoting Psalm 22 and calling the onlookers attention to that prophetic text, and it may be the sorrow of separation from God that Jesus endured for us. The second time Jesus cries out is not quoted here, but it comes at the moment of his death.<br /><br />The events that transpire immediately after Jesus death are remarkable to say the least. <strong>"At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. The earth shook, and the rocks were split. The tombs also were opened, and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised. After his resurrection they came out of the tombs and entered the holy city and appeared to many."</strong> Matthew 27:51-53 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">NRSV</span>. The curtain in the Temple separating the Holy of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Holies</span> is torn in half. This may symbolize for us the new covenant and the invitation we will all receive through Christ to come boldly before the throne of grace. A tremendous earthquake shakes the earth and tombs are opened and after the resurrection of Jesus, saints enter the city and appear to many. I can not imagine the impact this must have had on the people!<br /><br />The faithful women that had followed Jesus and supported him even at the cross and did not run off are mentioned here, <strong>"Many women were also there, looking on from a distance; they had followed Jesus from Galilee and had provided for him. Among them were Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of the sons of Zebedee."</strong> Matthew 27:55-56 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">NRSV</span>. Joseph of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Arimathea</span> asks for permission to bury Jesus in a tomb he had prepared for himself, and he is given the body which he wraps in a linen shroud and lays to rest in the borrowed tomb. The legends and stories about Joseph of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Arimethea</span> are legion, all four gospels record his bravery.<br /><br />The Chief Priest and Pharisees worry now that Jesus is dead that his disciples may raid the tomb and steal the body so they press Pilate to secure the tomb. Pilate sends a legion of soldiers to seal the tomb and guard it.<br /><br />I find even this brief reading of my saviors passion exhausting and emotionally draining. Thank-you, Lord for the gifts given, for the love on display at the cross.Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1558266338670537252.post-55643638954329045032008-10-20T08:51:00.000-07:002008-10-23T09:54:16.618-07:00Matthew 26This week we will complete our read through Matthew's gospel and begin reading Paul's letter to the church in Philippi. Please read, Monday - Matthew 26, Tuesday - Matthew 27 Thursday - Matthew 28, Thursday - Philippians 1, and Friday - Philippians 2.<br /><br />Jesus gives us a day for this chapter when he says it is two days before the Passover. He continues to try to prepare the disciples for his suffering and death. While he is at dinner a woman comes and anoints him with valuable perfume. Jesus says that wherever the gospel is proclaimed throughout the world, her story will be retold - and so it is!<br /><br />As Judas makes arrangements to betray Jesus, the disciples prepare the Passover celebration. When Jesus reveals that one of them will betray him, they do not all turn to Judas and accuse him, instead they all begin to search for reassurance that they are not the one. Jesus uses a familiar saying here when he says <strong>"The one who has dipped his hand into the bowl with me will betray me."</strong> Matthew 26:23 NRSV. This indicated the close relation of one that shared meals and was intimate with Jesus would be his betrayer.<br /><br />Jesus shares the traditional Passover meal with his disciples and adds in what we know as The Lord's Supper. I love to celebrate communion in this way. Every year our congregation celebrates the traditional Hagaddah or Seder Supper and as we draw to a close I enjoy transitioning into Communion.<br /><br />After the meal they go to the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus encourages the disciples to pray while he also prays for God's will.The disciples frustrate me in that they can not seem to stay awake and intercede in this dark hour with our Lord. I wonder where I fail to keep vigil for our savior.<br /><br />As Judas arrives with the soldiers to arrest Jesus we see Peter strike out with a sword to defend Jesus. I see Peters bravado and can only imagine his confusion when Jesus rebukes him and then heals the wounded man! These moments must have been horrible for all of the disciples - Judas included - and for Jesus as he watches them scatter.<br /><br />The trial and denial of Jesus by Peter follows in a mercifully quick retelling of this horrible passion. It has such a devastating effect on me every time I read it, and I feel so helpless. I wonder where I would have been had I been alive and traveling with Jesus on that night. When the time for betrayal came, would I have whispered, "Is it I, Lord?"Pastor Billhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14848229365757834476noreply@blogger.com4