What an amazing drama the first century church lives in. Paul preaches in the synagogues and some ruffians are recruited to bust up the church - they attack Jason's home! When Jason and his friends make bail and are released they send Paul and Silas off in the dark of night to Beroea. The first thing Paul does upon their arrival there is to go to the synagogue to preach! What courage and tenacity. Things go better in Beroea, but when the troublemakers in Thessalonica hear about it they follow Paul to stir up the crowds against him! This time Silas and Timothy stay behind to tend the church, but Paul is taken away again to preserve his life.
Paul arrives in Athens, and again goes right to the synagogue to preach. He also argues in the market place with the philosophers of the day. I love the scene where he takes their culture - the statue to the Unknown God - and uses this familiar thing to introduce them to the God he knows. I wonder where we are missing opportunities to proclaim our truth in ways our society can hear and receive.
Look at Paul's career path so far. He leaves the Pharisees and becomes part of the hated hunted early church. He is beaten and chased out of town after town. And yet he doesn't waiver in his faithfulness. I confess that I have been discouraged and considered quitting under far less opposition than this. If we seek the approval of people and the riches of this world we will be in danger of losing our way, but if we look to Jesus the author and finisher of our faith and look for God's approval alone, we can endure and persevere. Lord help me to measure my days from your perspective and not my own.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Acts 16
If you take the time to read the book of Acts and all of the writings of the Apostle Paul carefully you can watch a theology develop and grow before your eyes as you watch a man mature and age and grow. One example can be found here as Paul prepares to take Timothy with him on this missionary journey. Timothy's mother (and grandmother) was a Christian, but his father was a Greek. Apparently Paul was concerned here that everyone, knowing that Timothy's father was a Greek, would also presume Timothy was not circumcised. Paul has just delivered a letter from Jerusalem allowing the new Gentile Christians to forgo most of the legalism of the Jews, and yet he still has Timothy circumcised before they travel in mission. later Paul will have very harsh words for anyone that insists on this.
How has your theology and relationship with God grown and changed? It seems normal to me that our understanding will deepen as we grow, and that our relationships will change with God and God's word. Why is that such a scary idea for many of us?
It is very interesting to me the way Holy Spirit leads Paul and prevents some moves Paul tries to make. Oh that my life was so intimately guided by the Spirit of God that I would know when I am lead to move and prevented from moving. maybe as I grow up!
In Philippi, Paul finds many open to the Gospel message. When he rebukes and sets free a young woman who had been used for fortune telling because of a spirit - a demon - that possessed her, the young woman's owners do not rejoice at her freedom, they are enraged at their loss of an income opportunity! They have Paul and Silas arrested and severely beaten and imprisoned.
That night, around midnight, having been severely beaten and placed in shackles in the inner most part of the prison, Paul and Silas are singing praises to God! What a great testimony these saints leave for us to live in to! god reaches down and shakes the prison with an earthquake that leaves the doors open and the chains of all the prisoners loosed! The guard is ready to take his life when he finds Paul and Silas have not escaped. That night, the jailer and his entire family are baptised into faith in Jesus Christ!
Lord, help me to stay faithful and full of grace in the midst of my minor persecutions that others might come to saving faith in your Son!
How has your theology and relationship with God grown and changed? It seems normal to me that our understanding will deepen as we grow, and that our relationships will change with God and God's word. Why is that such a scary idea for many of us?
It is very interesting to me the way Holy Spirit leads Paul and prevents some moves Paul tries to make. Oh that my life was so intimately guided by the Spirit of God that I would know when I am lead to move and prevented from moving. maybe as I grow up!
In Philippi, Paul finds many open to the Gospel message. When he rebukes and sets free a young woman who had been used for fortune telling because of a spirit - a demon - that possessed her, the young woman's owners do not rejoice at her freedom, they are enraged at their loss of an income opportunity! They have Paul and Silas arrested and severely beaten and imprisoned.
That night, around midnight, having been severely beaten and placed in shackles in the inner most part of the prison, Paul and Silas are singing praises to God! What a great testimony these saints leave for us to live in to! god reaches down and shakes the prison with an earthquake that leaves the doors open and the chains of all the prisoners loosed! The guard is ready to take his life when he finds Paul and Silas have not escaped. That night, the jailer and his entire family are baptised into faith in Jesus Christ!
Lord, help me to stay faithful and full of grace in the midst of my minor persecutions that others might come to saving faith in your Son!
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Acts 15
As the Jewish believers in Jesus are joined by Gentiles a natural discussion and division develops between those that would keep the new movement as a branch of Judaism,and those that see it as a separate faith expression. After arguing with those that would have help all gentiles accountable to the Mosaic Law, Paul and Barnabas make their way to Jerusalem to get instructions on how to proceed from what is left of the original 12 disciples.
Peter speaks eloquently in defense of salvation by grace and not in keeping the law, and Paul and Barnabas follow his speech with anecdotal evidence of the moving of Holy Spirit in the midst of "uncircumcised" Gentile believers.
James (the brother of Jesus) speaks the definitive words encouraging the Gentiles to be welcomed into the new faith community. The council sends Paul and Barnabas back to the gentiles, along with other representatives to carry the message of liberty! The councils letter says in part, "For it has seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to impose on you no further burden than these essentials: that you abstain from what has been sacrificed to idols and from blood and from what is strangled and from fornication. If you keep yourselves from these, you will do well. Farewell." Acts 15:28, 29 NRSV.
As Paul and Barnabas prepare to leave on their next missionary adventure they run into a disagreement that is irreconcilable for them. Barnabas insists on taking along with them John Mark, a young man that left them prematurely on their first missionary journey. Paul refuses to have John Mark on the team, and Paul leaves with Silas and Barnabas leaves with John Mark. This is a sad example of the humanity we wrestle with even as we walk by faith.
Peter speaks eloquently in defense of salvation by grace and not in keeping the law, and Paul and Barnabas follow his speech with anecdotal evidence of the moving of Holy Spirit in the midst of "uncircumcised" Gentile believers.
James (the brother of Jesus) speaks the definitive words encouraging the Gentiles to be welcomed into the new faith community. The council sends Paul and Barnabas back to the gentiles, along with other representatives to carry the message of liberty! The councils letter says in part, "For it has seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to impose on you no further burden than these essentials: that you abstain from what has been sacrificed to idols and from blood and from what is strangled and from fornication. If you keep yourselves from these, you will do well. Farewell." Acts 15:28, 29 NRSV.
As Paul and Barnabas prepare to leave on their next missionary adventure they run into a disagreement that is irreconcilable for them. Barnabas insists on taking along with them John Mark, a young man that left them prematurely on their first missionary journey. Paul refuses to have John Mark on the team, and Paul leaves with Silas and Barnabas leaves with John Mark. This is a sad example of the humanity we wrestle with even as we walk by faith.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Acts 14
Paul and Barnabas continue this missionary journey through Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe with great success and at great peril. Paul is a very convincing preacher for the gospel - he was very likely the most brilliant of his age as a Pharisee and now he is turned loose to preach salvation through faith in Jesus Christ! The preaching of the Word is accompanied by signs and wonders that follow, and the crowds grow and grow.
Some of the pagan worshippers of Zeus begin to mistakenly attribute Paul and Barnabas as the incarnation of their god's. Paul, of course, will not hear of this and turns the moments into a revival!
Paul and Barnabas backtrack through the areas where they have preached, and ultimately return to Antioch - the city where they were commissioned from - to report on the success of the ministry. God is opening doors for the gospel message, and persecution naturally follows. Do not be surprised friends when all manor of evil is spoken about you - in fact, perhaps we should examine ourselves if we are not under attack....
Some of the pagan worshippers of Zeus begin to mistakenly attribute Paul and Barnabas as the incarnation of their god's. Paul, of course, will not hear of this and turns the moments into a revival!
Paul and Barnabas backtrack through the areas where they have preached, and ultimately return to Antioch - the city where they were commissioned from - to report on the success of the ministry. God is opening doors for the gospel message, and persecution naturally follows. Do not be surprised friends when all manor of evil is spoken about you - in fact, perhaps we should examine ourselves if we are not under attack....
Monday, May 26, 2008
Acts 13
As we begin this new week we will read: Monday - Acts 13, Tuesday - Acts 14, Wednesday - Acts 15, Thursday - Acts 16, and Friday - Acts 17.
In Acts 13 we see the appointive systems roots. Interestingly enough, I will be in Syracuse much of the week at the annual conference meeting of the North Central New York Conference of the United Methodist Church. as we read Acts it is easy to see the roots of the system of choosing pastors that some of our churches use called appointments. In this system a group of leaders (a bishop and district superintendents) gather and assign pastors to particular preaching posts. The other way this is accomplished is the cal system, where a congregation calls or hires their own pastor. Each system has strengths and weaknesses, but the strength of the appointive system is that a person can be appointed to a church based on their gifts and graces, apart from prejudices. Paul and Barnabas were appointed by the mission field by the group of elders in charge.
Paul's bold encounter with Elymas the false prophet is impressive! Paul shuts him down and turns the hearts of the people towards the gospel.
Later back in Antioch Paul preaches a wonderful sermon in the temple and many believed. The gentiles in particular heard the gospel message with great joy that they were now included in the family of God. Soon opposition arises against Paul and Barnabas and they are driven out of Antioch and make their way to Iconium. Even in the face of this persecution they go with great joy and the Holy Spirit!
Where has God appointed you to be in ministry today? I pray tat you are you journeying in great joy and the Holy Spirit, my friend!
In Acts 13 we see the appointive systems roots. Interestingly enough, I will be in Syracuse much of the week at the annual conference meeting of the North Central New York Conference of the United Methodist Church. as we read Acts it is easy to see the roots of the system of choosing pastors that some of our churches use called appointments. In this system a group of leaders (a bishop and district superintendents) gather and assign pastors to particular preaching posts. The other way this is accomplished is the cal system, where a congregation calls or hires their own pastor. Each system has strengths and weaknesses, but the strength of the appointive system is that a person can be appointed to a church based on their gifts and graces, apart from prejudices. Paul and Barnabas were appointed by the mission field by the group of elders in charge.
Paul's bold encounter with Elymas the false prophet is impressive! Paul shuts him down and turns the hearts of the people towards the gospel.
Later back in Antioch Paul preaches a wonderful sermon in the temple and many believed. The gentiles in particular heard the gospel message with great joy that they were now included in the family of God. Soon opposition arises against Paul and Barnabas and they are driven out of Antioch and make their way to Iconium. Even in the face of this persecution they go with great joy and the Holy Spirit!
Where has God appointed you to be in ministry today? I pray tat you are you journeying in great joy and the Holy Spirit, my friend!
Friday, May 23, 2008
Acts 12
We finish the week with another look at the martyrs of the early church. In chapter 12 Herod has James killed, and when the crowds seem to like that he also arrests Peter with the intention of killing him as well. As we enter our Memorial Day weekend when our nation pauses to give thanks for those service men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice of their lives for our freedom, I think it is wise for us to remember the martyrs of the Christian faith. The list begins with Stephen and James, but it doesn't end there. For a deeper look you may want to read Fox's Book of Martyrs.
Here is a little known statistic for you: there have been more people killed for their Christian faith in the 1900's than in all of the previous centuries combined. That's right, more saints killed for believing in Jesus from 1900 - 1999 than from Stephen in 33 AD until 1899. Hard to believe isn't it? The problem we have in believing this amazing statistic is that we have lived through a time of relative freedom and peace in this hemisphere. While Christians are being killed in Korea and China we complain about the temperature in the sanctuary, the color of the hymnals and the preachers choice of attire.
Chapter 12 is the account of God miraculously preserving peter in the face of great odds, and the ultimate death of Herod.
Take time this weekend to consider your place in the Kingdoms plans and remember the saints who have lived and died to preserve the faith we hold dear.
Here is a little known statistic for you: there have been more people killed for their Christian faith in the 1900's than in all of the previous centuries combined. That's right, more saints killed for believing in Jesus from 1900 - 1999 than from Stephen in 33 AD until 1899. Hard to believe isn't it? The problem we have in believing this amazing statistic is that we have lived through a time of relative freedom and peace in this hemisphere. While Christians are being killed in Korea and China we complain about the temperature in the sanctuary, the color of the hymnals and the preachers choice of attire.
Chapter 12 is the account of God miraculously preserving peter in the face of great odds, and the ultimate death of Herod.
Take time this weekend to consider your place in the Kingdoms plans and remember the saints who have lived and died to preserve the faith we hold dear.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Acts 11
The reaction of the leaders of the new Christian movement in Jerusalem to Peter's interaction with the new Gentile believers tells us alot about the deep resistance to allowing non-Jews into the new church. Peter recounts his experience with those who question him, and when they hear that the Holy Spirit has fallen on the Gentiles their mood softens and they welcome the new converts into the faith. How to handle the conversion of non-Jewish believers will be an issue for the young church for years to come.
Barnabas is dispatched to Antioch to investigate an outbreak of Christianity among the Gentiles there, and he finds them to be full of grace, and the holy Spirit and faith! Barnabas travels to Tarsus to find Paul and brings him back to Antioch, and for an entire Paul helps teach the new gentile believers there. It is interesting piece of church history, "and it was in Antioch that the disciples were first called "Christians." Acts 11:26 NRSV.
Saul begins his leadership in the early church here thanks to Barnabas. I wonder who I can encourage this week to come along side of me and be a future leader in the church. Are you encouraging anyones service?
Barnabas is dispatched to Antioch to investigate an outbreak of Christianity among the Gentiles there, and he finds them to be full of grace, and the holy Spirit and faith! Barnabas travels to Tarsus to find Paul and brings him back to Antioch, and for an entire Paul helps teach the new gentile believers there. It is interesting piece of church history, "and it was in Antioch that the disciples were first called "Christians." Acts 11:26 NRSV.
Saul begins his leadership in the early church here thanks to Barnabas. I wonder who I can encourage this week to come along side of me and be a future leader in the church. Are you encouraging anyones service?
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Acts 10
Acts chapter 10 is a very, very inconvenient chapter for anyone that has excluded people from being acceptable to God. If you are a racist, a sexist, a homophobe or any other king of "-ist" or "-phobe" you may want to skip this chapter so your prejudices might remain in tact.
Having warned you, we find Cornelius, a devout God fearing person who regularly gives alms and prays receiving a visitation fro a messenger of God. The angel says, "Your prayers and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God. Now send men to Joppa for a certain Simon who is called Peter; he is lodging with Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the seaside." Acts 10:4-6 NRSV. How about that? Not only had Cornelius' prayers been heard, but his faithful giving had ascended as a memorial before God! What impact is my giving having in the Throne Room? How about your giving?
Cornelius sends to Joppa for Peter who has been having dreams and visions of his own. In the vision God commands Peter to eat food that Peter had always been trained by his religion to see as unclean. God tells Peter in the vision that nothing God calls clean shall ever be unclean.
When Peter meets the Gentiles gathered in Cornelius' home, he makes a very interesting statement. peter says, "You yourselves know that it is unlawful for a Jew to associate with or to visit a Gentile; but God has shown me that I should not call anyone profane or unclean." Acts 10:28 NRSV. Peter says that we must call no one profane or unclean when it comes to our faith walk with God.
How does that work for you? Who would you have to include that you have been so comfortable excluding all of these years because of your religion? What God has called blessed, we must not call profane. Wrestle with that for the rest of the day, the week, your mortal life. We may find that Grace really is amazing and we really are free. What do you think?
Having warned you, we find Cornelius, a devout God fearing person who regularly gives alms and prays receiving a visitation fro a messenger of God. The angel says, "Your prayers and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God. Now send men to Joppa for a certain Simon who is called Peter; he is lodging with Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the seaside." Acts 10:4-6 NRSV. How about that? Not only had Cornelius' prayers been heard, but his faithful giving had ascended as a memorial before God! What impact is my giving having in the Throne Room? How about your giving?
Cornelius sends to Joppa for Peter who has been having dreams and visions of his own. In the vision God commands Peter to eat food that Peter had always been trained by his religion to see as unclean. God tells Peter in the vision that nothing God calls clean shall ever be unclean.
When Peter meets the Gentiles gathered in Cornelius' home, he makes a very interesting statement. peter says, "You yourselves know that it is unlawful for a Jew to associate with or to visit a Gentile; but God has shown me that I should not call anyone profane or unclean." Acts 10:28 NRSV. Peter says that we must call no one profane or unclean when it comes to our faith walk with God.
How does that work for you? Who would you have to include that you have been so comfortable excluding all of these years because of your religion? What God has called blessed, we must not call profane. Wrestle with that for the rest of the day, the week, your mortal life. We may find that Grace really is amazing and we really are free. What do you think?
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Acts 9
Today we will look at the salvation story of the Apostle Paul. Saul of Tarsus, a Pharisee by training and quickly rising star and leader in the Jewish hierarchy. In his zeal to keep the faith pure he charges off to exterminate the new heretics that we lovingly call the Early Church.
An unexpected complication awaits Saul on the Damascus Road - Jesus the Risen Lord. Saul is literally knocked to the ground by a blinding light and is led away from this fantastic scene by his companions to the nearby town of Damascus. For three days Saul fasts and prays and seeks the Lord.
The Lord appears on the the third day to a man named Ananias and instructs him to go to Saul and pray for his healing. Ananias is understandably reluctant. He has heard of Saul and the persecution he has brought upon the church and he wants no part of him. Finally Ananias obeys, he lays hands on Saul and Saul is filled with the Holy Spirit, his sight is restored, and he is baptized!
For several days he stays with the saints in Damascus - the same folks he was coming to persecute, and he begins to preach that Jesus is indeed the Son of God! Interesting that when Saul (Paul) comes to Jerusalem the Disciples want nothing to do with him! It is our friend Barnabas, the Son of Encouragement that brings Saul to the Disciples and makes a way into the fellowship for him.
Chapter 9 ends with the account of Peter bringing healing to a crippled man and calling a woman who had died back to life! No wonder the church grew and grew in the shadows of these miraculous signs and wonders.
I long to see the Spirit sweep through the church again. I long to see the crippled healed and the dead rise. I wonder what it might take for us to do what we already know to do - witness and pray and love the lost. Perhaps if we are faithful with what we know God will blow through here again.
An unexpected complication awaits Saul on the Damascus Road - Jesus the Risen Lord. Saul is literally knocked to the ground by a blinding light and is led away from this fantastic scene by his companions to the nearby town of Damascus. For three days Saul fasts and prays and seeks the Lord.
The Lord appears on the the third day to a man named Ananias and instructs him to go to Saul and pray for his healing. Ananias is understandably reluctant. He has heard of Saul and the persecution he has brought upon the church and he wants no part of him. Finally Ananias obeys, he lays hands on Saul and Saul is filled with the Holy Spirit, his sight is restored, and he is baptized!
For several days he stays with the saints in Damascus - the same folks he was coming to persecute, and he begins to preach that Jesus is indeed the Son of God! Interesting that when Saul (Paul) comes to Jerusalem the Disciples want nothing to do with him! It is our friend Barnabas, the Son of Encouragement that brings Saul to the Disciples and makes a way into the fellowship for him.
Chapter 9 ends with the account of Peter bringing healing to a crippled man and calling a woman who had died back to life! No wonder the church grew and grew in the shadows of these miraculous signs and wonders.
I long to see the Spirit sweep through the church again. I long to see the crippled healed and the dead rise. I wonder what it might take for us to do what we already know to do - witness and pray and love the lost. Perhaps if we are faithful with what we know God will blow through here again.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Acts 8
As we begin a new week of reading together I am back home and I will try to do a better job of posting every day! thanks to everyone that has patiently endured the last few weeks as I traveled! this weeks readings are: Monday - Acts 8, Tuesday - Acts 9, Wednesday - Acts 10, Thursday - Acts 11, Friday - Acts 12.
Chapter 7 ended with the martyrdom of Stephen and we meet Saul of tarsus, a young man that stands by and holds the cloaks of the murderers and lend his approval to their actions. there is a saying in the church that goes something like this, "the blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church." This truth hits home in the young man saul. He watches as Stephen dies a courageous death full of faith and light, and it must have haunted him as he travels and rails against the early church. Perhaps Stephens dyinfg sermon and grace were indeed the seeds of Saul of tarusu -= later known as the Apostle Paul's faith.
In verses 5 and following we read the account of the missionary experience of Phillip. he goes first to Samaria and preaches the Word there, and many believe! The elders in Jerusalem send Peter and john to Samaria to confirm the work Phillip has done and they confront a magician - also named Simon, who desires to purchase the power of the holy Spirit. Peter and John rebuke him for his sinful desire to make a financial gain from faith.
Phillip is called by an angel to the road that goes between Jerusalem and Gaza. there he encounters an Ethiopian Eunich who is reading from the scroll of the prophet Isaiah. Phillip witnesses to the Ethiopian and reaps a harvest of souls when the man asks to be baptised! After the man is baptised a miraculous thing happens to Phillip - he is caught away by the Spirit and finds himself miles away in Azotus! He is transported by the Spirit to a distant location and goes on his way proclaiming the Gospel of our Lord. How would that strike you? I have actually asked the lord to this for me on occassion when I was running late, but I have never met anyone that said they had experienced it. WOW>
Chapter 7 ended with the martyrdom of Stephen and we meet Saul of tarsus, a young man that stands by and holds the cloaks of the murderers and lend his approval to their actions. there is a saying in the church that goes something like this, "the blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church." This truth hits home in the young man saul. He watches as Stephen dies a courageous death full of faith and light, and it must have haunted him as he travels and rails against the early church. Perhaps Stephens dyinfg sermon and grace were indeed the seeds of Saul of tarusu -= later known as the Apostle Paul's faith.
In verses 5 and following we read the account of the missionary experience of Phillip. he goes first to Samaria and preaches the Word there, and many believe! The elders in Jerusalem send Peter and john to Samaria to confirm the work Phillip has done and they confront a magician - also named Simon, who desires to purchase the power of the holy Spirit. Peter and John rebuke him for his sinful desire to make a financial gain from faith.
Phillip is called by an angel to the road that goes between Jerusalem and Gaza. there he encounters an Ethiopian Eunich who is reading from the scroll of the prophet Isaiah. Phillip witnesses to the Ethiopian and reaps a harvest of souls when the man asks to be baptised! After the man is baptised a miraculous thing happens to Phillip - he is caught away by the Spirit and finds himself miles away in Azotus! He is transported by the Spirit to a distant location and goes on his way proclaiming the Gospel of our Lord. How would that strike you? I have actually asked the lord to this for me on occassion when I was running late, but I have never met anyone that said they had experienced it. WOW>
Friday, May 16, 2008
Acts 7
Acts chapter 7 is a great history / theology lesson given by Stephen as a final word before he is stoned to death. Stephen weaves his way from Abraham to Isaac and Jacob to Moses and David and finally to Jesus. Stephen's last words are brilliant and a fairly brief review of the history these religious leaders must have been familiar with!
As Stephen concludes his statement, they grind their teeth at him in anger and he looks heavenward and proclaims,"I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!" Acts 7:56 NRSV. What a powerful moment of faithfulness. This seems to be more than the enraged crowd can stand and they rush Stephen, and drag him out of the city and stone him to death. While he is dying he sounds just like our savior, "While they were stoning Stephen, he prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." Then he knelt down and cried out in a loud voice, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." When he had said this, he died." Acts 7:59&60 NRSV.
Stephen lived and died well. I have often wondered if I could stand faithful at the onslaught of angry people and persecution. We have powerful examples in our history of men and women who would not bow to earthly pressures, but leaned into the Kingdom in their final moments. Lord help us to live well, and when necessary, die well.
As Stephen concludes his statement, they grind their teeth at him in anger and he looks heavenward and proclaims,"I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!" Acts 7:56 NRSV. What a powerful moment of faithfulness. This seems to be more than the enraged crowd can stand and they rush Stephen, and drag him out of the city and stone him to death. While he is dying he sounds just like our savior, "While they were stoning Stephen, he prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." Then he knelt down and cried out in a loud voice, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." When he had said this, he died." Acts 7:59&60 NRSV.
Stephen lived and died well. I have often wondered if I could stand faithful at the onslaught of angry people and persecution. We have powerful examples in our history of men and women who would not bow to earthly pressures, but leaned into the Kingdom in their final moments. Lord help us to live well, and when necessary, die well.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Acts 6
In chapter 6 we find the disciples doing the early work of putting structure to this early movement. it was a daunting important task, and they used great wisdom in these early decisions.
As the believers grew in numbers, the old way of doing church no longer seemed to be working. At first, the Disciple modeled what they saw Jesus doing, in that they acted as servants and handled every task for the believers. They are growing everyday now, and are likely between 10 and 15,000 in number. The disciples make a daring brilliant decision about leadership. They decide the most important thing for them to do, is the thing they are uniquely gifted and situated to do - namely parsing the Word of God and teaching. They recruit good Spirit filled people to handle some of the other tasks for them. Note that this is not because the tasks are not important, just the opposite! It is because the work is ALL important and can't afford to fall between the cracks of over worked people!
The first deacons are called our and consecrated for service. Among these is the missionary Phillip and the churches first martyr Stephen. Chapter 6 ends with Stephen standing before his accusers looking like an angel in the face of false accusations.
As the believers grew in numbers, the old way of doing church no longer seemed to be working. At first, the Disciple modeled what they saw Jesus doing, in that they acted as servants and handled every task for the believers. They are growing everyday now, and are likely between 10 and 15,000 in number. The disciples make a daring brilliant decision about leadership. They decide the most important thing for them to do, is the thing they are uniquely gifted and situated to do - namely parsing the Word of God and teaching. They recruit good Spirit filled people to handle some of the other tasks for them. Note that this is not because the tasks are not important, just the opposite! It is because the work is ALL important and can't afford to fall between the cracks of over worked people!
The first deacons are called our and consecrated for service. Among these is the missionary Phillip and the churches first martyr Stephen. Chapter 6 ends with Stephen standing before his accusers looking like an angel in the face of false accusations.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Acts 5
Chapter 4 ended by introducing Barnabas, the "Son of Encouragement" to us. Luke tels us that Barney sold a field that he owned and gave the proceeds to the disciples for distribution. Chapter 5 begins by introducing Annanias and Sapphira to us. Annanias and Sapphira are the anti-heros of the story. They also sell a field, but conspire together to keep some of the proceeds, but tell everyone that they are giving the entire sum of the sale.
The story that follows is an example of the discipline and power in the early church. Annanias is confronted by Peter and drops dead. The young men carry the body out and bury him and before they can get back Sapphira meets the same end.
The sin of Annanias and Sapphire is not that they kept part of the money, but that they conspired together to lie about their generosity. We must take seriously the story even though it may offend our sensibilities. We might ask ourselves where we are deceiving others about our spirituality. Where are we living a religious lie, and for what end?
The authority and credibility of the Apostles grows daily and eventually the High Priest takes action and arrests them and puts them in jail under guard! That night, miraculously, the Apostles are released from prison by an angel of the Lord, and instructed to go and preach the Word! The next day when the religious leaders return to get the disciples from the prison they find the prison still locked but empty. they confront the disciples whom they find preaching in the temple and order them to stop their preaching. Again, the disciples say they must obey God and not people.
Here we find another famous quote - this time by Gamaliel, a famous teacher of the Jews and Saul of Tarsus (later called the Apostle Paul). Gamaliel cautions the angry leaders with this wisdom, "Fellow Israelites, consider carefully what you propose to do to these men. For some time ago Theudas rose up, claiming to be somebody, and a number of men, about four hundred, joined him; but he was killed, and all who followed him were dispersed and disappeared. After him Judas the Galilean rose up at the time of the census and got people to follow him; he also perished, and all who followed him were scattered. So in the present case, I tell you, keep away from these men and let them alone; because if this plan or this undertaking is of human origin, it will fail; but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them--in that case you may even be found fighting against God!" Acts 5:35-39 NRSV.
The council takes Gamaliel's advice, but before they release the disciples they have them flogged as a warning. Imagine the scene following the flogging - as the disciples leave they rejoice that they were considered worthy to suffer for the Lord! What courage and what a great example for us!
The story that follows is an example of the discipline and power in the early church. Annanias is confronted by Peter and drops dead. The young men carry the body out and bury him and before they can get back Sapphira meets the same end.
The sin of Annanias and Sapphire is not that they kept part of the money, but that they conspired together to lie about their generosity. We must take seriously the story even though it may offend our sensibilities. We might ask ourselves where we are deceiving others about our spirituality. Where are we living a religious lie, and for what end?
The authority and credibility of the Apostles grows daily and eventually the High Priest takes action and arrests them and puts them in jail under guard! That night, miraculously, the Apostles are released from prison by an angel of the Lord, and instructed to go and preach the Word! The next day when the religious leaders return to get the disciples from the prison they find the prison still locked but empty. they confront the disciples whom they find preaching in the temple and order them to stop their preaching. Again, the disciples say they must obey God and not people.
Here we find another famous quote - this time by Gamaliel, a famous teacher of the Jews and Saul of Tarsus (later called the Apostle Paul). Gamaliel cautions the angry leaders with this wisdom, "Fellow Israelites, consider carefully what you propose to do to these men. For some time ago Theudas rose up, claiming to be somebody, and a number of men, about four hundred, joined him; but he was killed, and all who followed him were dispersed and disappeared. After him Judas the Galilean rose up at the time of the census and got people to follow him; he also perished, and all who followed him were scattered. So in the present case, I tell you, keep away from these men and let them alone; because if this plan or this undertaking is of human origin, it will fail; but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them--in that case you may even be found fighting against God!" Acts 5:35-39 NRSV.
The council takes Gamaliel's advice, but before they release the disciples they have them flogged as a warning. Imagine the scene following the flogging - as the disciples leave they rejoice that they were considered worthy to suffer for the Lord! What courage and what a great example for us!
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Acts 4
In Chapter 4 the plot thickens (cue scary music). John and Peter have been witnessing to the crowd that gathered after the crippled man at The Gate Called beautiful is healed, and the crowd is turning towards this new gospel. the Sadducee's come on the scene and they are upset with Peter and John mainly because they are preaching resurrection from the dead. The Sadducee's did not believe in an after life or heaven (that is why they are Sad - u - see) and you may remember them being pitted against the Pharisees by Jesus in a debate over the eternal life issue.
It is late in the day, so the Sadducee's have Peter and john arrested and held over until morning for a public hearing. Don't skip over the verse that says that day 5000 people came to faith in Christ. WOW!!!
The next day when they gather together Peter gives them a Holy Spirit filled sermon that is must reading! What a powerhouse Peter is now that Holy Spirit has come on the scene! The leaders threaten the Disciples and warn them not to preach ever again in the name of Jesus. Their response has been quoted by those practicing civil disobedience ever since. They said, "Whether it is right in God's sight to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge; for we cannot keep from speaking about what we have seen and heard." Acts 4:19,20 NRSV.
After the disciples are released they go back to their friends and celebrate and praise God for their deliverance and God's power among them. Chapter 4 ends much like chapter 2 with an account of what life in the early church was like. Oh how I want to see the church live like this again. One of my favorite Bible characters is brought onto the stage in the last 2 verses of chapter 4. He is Joseph of Cyprus whom the Apostles give the name "Barnabas" or Son of Encouragement. What a great name. I have many people in my life that fill this Barnabas roll for me, and a few for whom I have been an encourager. Who are you intentionally encouraging today? Are there any among us who would call you their Barnabas?
It is late in the day, so the Sadducee's have Peter and john arrested and held over until morning for a public hearing. Don't skip over the verse that says that day 5000 people came to faith in Christ. WOW!!!
The next day when they gather together Peter gives them a Holy Spirit filled sermon that is must reading! What a powerhouse Peter is now that Holy Spirit has come on the scene! The leaders threaten the Disciples and warn them not to preach ever again in the name of Jesus. Their response has been quoted by those practicing civil disobedience ever since. They said, "Whether it is right in God's sight to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge; for we cannot keep from speaking about what we have seen and heard." Acts 4:19,20 NRSV.
After the disciples are released they go back to their friends and celebrate and praise God for their deliverance and God's power among them. Chapter 4 ends much like chapter 2 with an account of what life in the early church was like. Oh how I want to see the church live like this again. One of my favorite Bible characters is brought onto the stage in the last 2 verses of chapter 4. He is Joseph of Cyprus whom the Apostles give the name "Barnabas" or Son of Encouragement. What a great name. I have many people in my life that fill this Barnabas roll for me, and a few for whom I have been an encourager. Who are you intentionally encouraging today? Are there any among us who would call you their Barnabas?
Monday, May 12, 2008
Acts 3
What a wonderful Pentecost celebration in all 4 of our worship services yesterday! Thanks to everyone that helped make worship so intimate.
As we begin this new week we continue in our reading of the book of Acts. The readings will follow the normal pattern, Monday - Acts 3, Tuesday - Acts 4, Wednesday - Acts 5, Thursday - Acts 6, and Friday - Acts 7.
Chapter 3 begins with the powerful retelling of the story of the crippled man healed at The Gate called Beautiful. Peter and John were passing by the man and he called out to them expecting them to donate some money. Peter responds that he has no silver or gold, but he commands the crippled man to stand up and walk. The next verse is what grabs my attention. Peter not only commands the man to stand up. he reaches out and grabs him by the right hand and drags him to his feet! Now that is faith in action, don't you think? i might pray, I might tell the man to get up, but to take the step of physically pulling him up - that separates Peter from most everyone I know. Maybe that unwavering tenacious faith is what is missing when we pray. Lord help me to be bold in you.
The man began jumping around and praising God for this wonderful gift of wholeness, and a crowd gathers. The crowd is amazed and shocked at the man they recognize as the cripple at The Gate called Beautiful is now a dancing fool for Christ! Peter uses this opportunity to preach the Gospel and have an altar call. And people begin to come to salvation in droves. This was a normal part of the equation in the early church - signs and wonders accompanied the preaching of the word and lives were changed.
Not to dumb it down just for our convenience, but I see a similar process especially among the younger generation today. When the church really does the works of ministry - really feeds the hungry and clothes the naked and loves the outcast, when the church moves in power and lives are changed, people come to faith! What will it take to get you (and me) up off the matt of our blessed assurance and back into the game friend?
As we begin this new week we continue in our reading of the book of Acts. The readings will follow the normal pattern, Monday - Acts 3, Tuesday - Acts 4, Wednesday - Acts 5, Thursday - Acts 6, and Friday - Acts 7.
Chapter 3 begins with the powerful retelling of the story of the crippled man healed at The Gate called Beautiful. Peter and John were passing by the man and he called out to them expecting them to donate some money. Peter responds that he has no silver or gold, but he commands the crippled man to stand up and walk. The next verse is what grabs my attention. Peter not only commands the man to stand up. he reaches out and grabs him by the right hand and drags him to his feet! Now that is faith in action, don't you think? i might pray, I might tell the man to get up, but to take the step of physically pulling him up - that separates Peter from most everyone I know. Maybe that unwavering tenacious faith is what is missing when we pray. Lord help me to be bold in you.
The man began jumping around and praising God for this wonderful gift of wholeness, and a crowd gathers. The crowd is amazed and shocked at the man they recognize as the cripple at The Gate called Beautiful is now a dancing fool for Christ! Peter uses this opportunity to preach the Gospel and have an altar call. And people begin to come to salvation in droves. This was a normal part of the equation in the early church - signs and wonders accompanied the preaching of the word and lives were changed.
Not to dumb it down just for our convenience, but I see a similar process especially among the younger generation today. When the church really does the works of ministry - really feeds the hungry and clothes the naked and loves the outcast, when the church moves in power and lives are changed, people come to faith! What will it take to get you (and me) up off the matt of our blessed assurance and back into the game friend?
Friday, May 9, 2008
Acts 2
I get caught up in this chapter of scripture like few others. It is right up there for me with the Resurrection accounts and the scenes of the Second Coming of our Lord! Luke records for us the beauty and mystery of the birthing process of the new church.
On Pentecost - a Jewish holiday that would have had Jerusalem filled to overflowing with pilgrims much like it was at Passover 50 days earlier when Jesus was crucified - the promised gift of Holy Spirit is fulfilled and the believers are radically and forever changed!
As i read through these verses over and over again the word that echoes in my heart is restoration. I believe that Pentecost is a day of more than just an awesome display of power and mystery, I believe it is also a day when God begins to restore to creation all that has been lost through sin.
The tongues that were confused in Genesis 11 are restored in Pentecost. People's integrity and strength lost through sin - restored in Pentecost. In exodus 3000 Israelites die in one day for worshipping an idol, In acts 3000 are restored at Pentecost.
Pentecost power is still active among us friends. God is able and willing to restore in you all that has been lost. Are you ready and willing to receive the outpouring of fire and power that brings restoration?
Note as the chapter ends the characteristics of the early church. "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. Awe came upon everyone, because many wonders and signs were being done by the apostles. All who believed were together and had all things in common; they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds to all, as any had need. Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved." Acts 2:42-47 NRSV. Imagine being part of a fellowship like that. Imagine caring for each other and carrying each other and spending quality fellowship time together every day! Can you imagine that? I can, and I pray that God will release that kind of fellowship somewhere in my lifetime. Of course the church grew every day! People would be drawn to that kind of love and fellowship and they would draw others, and the world will change. I want to be a part of that kind of church.
On Pentecost - a Jewish holiday that would have had Jerusalem filled to overflowing with pilgrims much like it was at Passover 50 days earlier when Jesus was crucified - the promised gift of Holy Spirit is fulfilled and the believers are radically and forever changed!
As i read through these verses over and over again the word that echoes in my heart is restoration. I believe that Pentecost is a day of more than just an awesome display of power and mystery, I believe it is also a day when God begins to restore to creation all that has been lost through sin.
The tongues that were confused in Genesis 11 are restored in Pentecost. People's integrity and strength lost through sin - restored in Pentecost. In exodus 3000 Israelites die in one day for worshipping an idol, In acts 3000 are restored at Pentecost.
Pentecost power is still active among us friends. God is able and willing to restore in you all that has been lost. Are you ready and willing to receive the outpouring of fire and power that brings restoration?
Note as the chapter ends the characteristics of the early church. "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. Awe came upon everyone, because many wonders and signs were being done by the apostles. All who believed were together and had all things in common; they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds to all, as any had need. Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved." Acts 2:42-47 NRSV. Imagine being part of a fellowship like that. Imagine caring for each other and carrying each other and spending quality fellowship time together every day! Can you imagine that? I can, and I pray that God will release that kind of fellowship somewhere in my lifetime. Of course the church grew every day! People would be drawn to that kind of love and fellowship and they would draw others, and the world will change. I want to be a part of that kind of church.
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Acts 1
I mentioned in Luke 24 that Dr. Luke crammed 40 days of post-resurrection appearances into one day. Luke corrects this oversight in the prologue to Acts as he expands on the 40 days of Jesus appearing to the disciples. This book is written to the same recipient as the gospel of Luke - to you and I as we are Lovers of God.
Luke does a nice job summarizing the gospel presentation to catch his readers up to speed before he launches into the meat of the presentation - the Gospel of the Early Church.
Chapter one ends with the disciple selecting a replacement for Judas to carry on the ministry of the disciples. interesting that they wanted the new person to be "one of the men who have accompanied us during all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us--one of these must become a witness with us to his resurrection." Acts 1:21,22 NRSV. Apparently there were several people that filled the requirements, and they selected 2 men, Matthias and Barsabbas. After praying for God's guidance they cast lots and the lot fell to Matthias to join the 11 in their unique role and ministry.
i am so excited about our journey together through the book of Acts. I hope you will read along and write in on occasion when the Word of God touches your heart!
Luke does a nice job summarizing the gospel presentation to catch his readers up to speed before he launches into the meat of the presentation - the Gospel of the Early Church.
Chapter one ends with the disciple selecting a replacement for Judas to carry on the ministry of the disciples. interesting that they wanted the new person to be "one of the men who have accompanied us during all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us--one of these must become a witness with us to his resurrection." Acts 1:21,22 NRSV. Apparently there were several people that filled the requirements, and they selected 2 men, Matthias and Barsabbas. After praying for God's guidance they cast lots and the lot fell to Matthias to join the 11 in their unique role and ministry.
i am so excited about our journey together through the book of Acts. I hope you will read along and write in on occasion when the Word of God touches your heart!
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Luke 24
"But on the first day of the week," Luke 24:1 NRSV. Now that, my friends, changes everything! If the Gospel of Luke ended with chapter 23, it would be a well researched, well written tragedy. With chapter 24 everything changes and resurrection bursts forth into creation. Yeah baby!
The faithful women are still one of the most inspiring parts of this account for me. Doing the right thing in the face of great odds - movies should be made about them. The disciples amazement and the angels proclamation give me ghost bumps (Holy Ghost bumps) every time i read this account.
The Walk to Emmaus account has become a huge part of my spiritual journey. I went reluctantly to Auburn First UMC about 15 years ago and participated in a spiritual retreat call the Walk to Emmaus. It was nice, but not life changing for me to be honest. My wife attended the next month on the women's walk and it shook her world! She was transformed form a silent, scared, spectator into a dynamic aggressive missionary and disciple of Jesus Christ. She will never be the same, nor will my family or my church or just about anything in our lives together. If you want to know more about the Walk to Emmaus ministries, ask me. it may be a nice weekend away for you like it was for me, or it may rock your world like it did my brides!
Luke compresses about 40 days of information into the closing 20 verses of his gospel account. All of the pieces that you'll find in the other accounts are here, but they happen on resurrection night, not the next 6 weeks! The important call is still made to the disciples and to you and me. Go, tell, teach, worship.
As Luke closes we are leaning in to the book of Acts. Don't miss this chance to read what some have called "The Gospel of the Church". Exciting material lies just ahead!
The faithful women are still one of the most inspiring parts of this account for me. Doing the right thing in the face of great odds - movies should be made about them. The disciples amazement and the angels proclamation give me ghost bumps (Holy Ghost bumps) every time i read this account.
The Walk to Emmaus account has become a huge part of my spiritual journey. I went reluctantly to Auburn First UMC about 15 years ago and participated in a spiritual retreat call the Walk to Emmaus. It was nice, but not life changing for me to be honest. My wife attended the next month on the women's walk and it shook her world! She was transformed form a silent, scared, spectator into a dynamic aggressive missionary and disciple of Jesus Christ. She will never be the same, nor will my family or my church or just about anything in our lives together. If you want to know more about the Walk to Emmaus ministries, ask me. it may be a nice weekend away for you like it was for me, or it may rock your world like it did my brides!
Luke compresses about 40 days of information into the closing 20 verses of his gospel account. All of the pieces that you'll find in the other accounts are here, but they happen on resurrection night, not the next 6 weeks! The important call is still made to the disciples and to you and me. Go, tell, teach, worship.
As Luke closes we are leaning in to the book of Acts. Don't miss this chance to read what some have called "The Gospel of the Church". Exciting material lies just ahead!
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Luke 23
I am struck as I read Luke's account of the "trial" of Jesus that Pilate is really a reluctant part of this. Before I let him off the hook though as a manipulated pawn I am forced to remember that he killed many people at his whim and could have stood against these charges easily if he had wanted to. No free pass for Pilate today from me.
Pilate does make some feeble attempts at releasing Jesus or passing responsibility on to Herod, but eventually he gives in to the pressures of the mob and hands Jesus over to be crucified.
Simon of Cyrene is conscripted to carry Jesus' cross. The women weep for Jesus and he tells them to weep for themselves and their people. I am still unable to read this passion event even in Luke's Gospel without replaying scenes from Mel Gibson's "The Passion of the Christ". That graphic portrayal of the crucifixion lingers in my minds eye still - probably always will.
The repentant thief stands out tome in today's reading. What grace and mercy for Jesus to extend himself even in the moment of his great suffering, Amazing Grace indeed.
When Jesus is dead, Joseph of Arimathea comes asking Pilate for the body of Jesus, and lays him in a rock-hewn tomb where no one had ever been buried. The women make note of the location, and then they return to their homes to prepare spices and ointments for his burial and they rest on the sabbath according to the commandments. Their decision to rest on the sabbath because of the commandments stings a little today as I remember all of the people that Jesus healed and helped on the sabbath in spite of the opposition. I wonder if I would have done any different.
Pilate does make some feeble attempts at releasing Jesus or passing responsibility on to Herod, but eventually he gives in to the pressures of the mob and hands Jesus over to be crucified.
Simon of Cyrene is conscripted to carry Jesus' cross. The women weep for Jesus and he tells them to weep for themselves and their people. I am still unable to read this passion event even in Luke's Gospel without replaying scenes from Mel Gibson's "The Passion of the Christ". That graphic portrayal of the crucifixion lingers in my minds eye still - probably always will.
The repentant thief stands out tome in today's reading. What grace and mercy for Jesus to extend himself even in the moment of his great suffering, Amazing Grace indeed.
When Jesus is dead, Joseph of Arimathea comes asking Pilate for the body of Jesus, and lays him in a rock-hewn tomb where no one had ever been buried. The women make note of the location, and then they return to their homes to prepare spices and ointments for his burial and they rest on the sabbath according to the commandments. Their decision to rest on the sabbath because of the commandments stings a little today as I remember all of the people that Jesus healed and helped on the sabbath in spite of the opposition. I wonder if I would have done any different.
Monday, May 5, 2008
Luke 22
I am back home and back to the task of daily blogging. I missed it when I was gone, and I can easily see how people can fall away from this discipline and not return to it! I hope if you have taken time away that you will return and follow along as we leave Luke this week and journey through the book of Acts. This weeks readings are as follows; Monday - Luke 22, Tuesday -Luke 23, Wednesday - Luke 24, Thursday - Acts 1, Friday - Acts 2. We are on this schedule because Luke wrote both Luke and Acts and the Sunday May 11th 2008 is Pentecost Sunday! We will read Acts 2 Friday and then be prepared to celebrate the coming of the Holy Spirit with power this Sunday. It is a church tradition to wear red on Pentecost so fee free to break out that red tie, or dress, or ?????
Luke 22 is Luke's account of the Last Supper celebrated by Jesus with his disciples and the institution of the Lord's Supper. A careful reading of Luke 22 will find that Luke remembers 2 cups of wine in the meal instead of the traditional 1 we use today. The disciples dispute who will be the greatest in the Kingdom after the meal instead of before the meal as in John, and Jesus encourages them to lead like he does - as a servant and not as a despot!
Jesus words to Peter are chilling for me. He says, "Simon, Simon, listen! Satan has demanded to sift all of you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your own faith may not fail; and you, when once you have turned back, strengthen your brothers." Luke 22:31&32 NRSV. I imagine it might paralyze us if we knew how desperately Satan hates us and desires to "sift us like wheat". But be of good cheer, Jesus prays for us and travels with us still and will be our strength and portion.
Jesus passion is briefer but still compelling here. As he struggles in the garden in prayer an angel appears and strengthens him. Judas comes amid armed guards and torches and sleepy disciples and swords and Jesus is arrested. he is beaten and mocked and dragged before the High Priest. Peter denies Jesus 3 times as predicted and as the cock crows Jesus looks into Peter's eyes. How devastating this must have been for Simon. It is a wonder that he didn't take his own life in the midst of his grief.
Jesus allows the beating and humiliation from the religious leaders and their minions here in chapter 22. In the next chapter the civil courts take over and punish him as well. A conspiracy of Jew and Gentile - all peoples from the writers point of view - come together to take the life of the Son of God.
Luke 22 is Luke's account of the Last Supper celebrated by Jesus with his disciples and the institution of the Lord's Supper. A careful reading of Luke 22 will find that Luke remembers 2 cups of wine in the meal instead of the traditional 1 we use today. The disciples dispute who will be the greatest in the Kingdom after the meal instead of before the meal as in John, and Jesus encourages them to lead like he does - as a servant and not as a despot!
Jesus words to Peter are chilling for me. He says, "Simon, Simon, listen! Satan has demanded to sift all of you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your own faith may not fail; and you, when once you have turned back, strengthen your brothers." Luke 22:31&32 NRSV. I imagine it might paralyze us if we knew how desperately Satan hates us and desires to "sift us like wheat". But be of good cheer, Jesus prays for us and travels with us still and will be our strength and portion.
Jesus passion is briefer but still compelling here. As he struggles in the garden in prayer an angel appears and strengthens him. Judas comes amid armed guards and torches and sleepy disciples and swords and Jesus is arrested. he is beaten and mocked and dragged before the High Priest. Peter denies Jesus 3 times as predicted and as the cock crows Jesus looks into Peter's eyes. How devastating this must have been for Simon. It is a wonder that he didn't take his own life in the midst of his grief.
Jesus allows the beating and humiliation from the religious leaders and their minions here in chapter 22. In the next chapter the civil courts take over and punish him as well. A conspiracy of Jew and Gentile - all peoples from the writers point of view - come together to take the life of the Son of God.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Luke 21
Chapter 21 begins with the account of "The Widow's Mite". Jesus is watching people put their tithes and offerings into the temple treasury and calls the disciples attention to a widow who gives all she possesses - 2 small copper coins. I may have been inclined to stop her and tell her to hold on to what little she had - to let the wealthy give a bit more because they could afford it more than she could. Jesus has a different view on giving than I do. Jesus sees our giving as an opportunity for God's blessings to flow to us, and not as a reduction in our total stuff. How is your giving life? Are you giving out of God's abundance, or are you robbing God (see Malachi 3:8).
This is Jesus' last day of teaching before the Passover meal and his crucifixion in Luke's gospel. Jesus spends the rest of the chapter s[peaking of the end of the age and signs that will be seen. We have been looking for the second coming of Christ - many of us have - for almost 2000 years. Our fascination with this topic knows almost no limits. I wonder why. Why are we so taken with the end of all things when there is so much to do here in the mean time. I would think with unsaved neighbors and family members we would be concentrating on evangelism and giving and less on watching for the next "sign".
This world will end tomorrow - for someone. We are given the task of proclaiming the great Good News of the Gospel until Jesus returns - we are not tasked with clock watching or speculating on dates and scenarios. Come quickly Lord Jesus, but until you do come, help your people to be about your Kingdoms business.
This is Jesus' last day of teaching before the Passover meal and his crucifixion in Luke's gospel. Jesus spends the rest of the chapter s[peaking of the end of the age and signs that will be seen. We have been looking for the second coming of Christ - many of us have - for almost 2000 years. Our fascination with this topic knows almost no limits. I wonder why. Why are we so taken with the end of all things when there is so much to do here in the mean time. I would think with unsaved neighbors and family members we would be concentrating on evangelism and giving and less on watching for the next "sign".
This world will end tomorrow - for someone. We are given the task of proclaiming the great Good News of the Gospel until Jesus returns - we are not tasked with clock watching or speculating on dates and scenarios. Come quickly Lord Jesus, but until you do come, help your people to be about your Kingdoms business.
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Luke 20
Jesus' earthly ministry is almost completed now and the conflict with the religious leaders of his day heightens. They first confront Jesus and ask him by what authority he teaches. Jesus, in good rabbinic fashion, turns the question back on them. He asks them about the validity and source of John the baptists ministry and they reason privately that if they support John they'll be proven to be hypocrites and if they don't support John the Baptist the people may revolt against them and stone them to death! When they refuse to answer Jesus' questions Jesus says that he will therefore, not answer theirs.
Jesus tells a parable "against them" that is a thinly veiled review of the way the Pharisees and Sadducee's have dealt with Jesus. They are offended with Jesus and increase their determination to catch him in a capital offense. When they try to trick Jesus with a question on paying taxes Jesus brilliantly turn the tables on them by asking whose likeness is on the coin of the realm. They answer that it is Caesar's likeness and Jesus instructs them to render to Caesar that which is Caesar's and unto God what is God's. It seems to me that rendering to God all that carries God's likeness is fairly exhaustive work. All things are from God and belong to God. Everything.
As the chapter closes the Sadducee's try their hand at cornering Jesus with no more success than the Pharisees. Why do we so often try to our reason the creator, redeemer, and sustainer of all things? When will we simply surrender to His sovereignty and worship God alone?
Jesus tells a parable "against them" that is a thinly veiled review of the way the Pharisees and Sadducee's have dealt with Jesus. They are offended with Jesus and increase their determination to catch him in a capital offense. When they try to trick Jesus with a question on paying taxes Jesus brilliantly turn the tables on them by asking whose likeness is on the coin of the realm. They answer that it is Caesar's likeness and Jesus instructs them to render to Caesar that which is Caesar's and unto God what is God's. It seems to me that rendering to God all that carries God's likeness is fairly exhaustive work. All things are from God and belong to God. Everything.
As the chapter closes the Sadducee's try their hand at cornering Jesus with no more success than the Pharisees. Why do we so often try to our reason the creator, redeemer, and sustainer of all things? When will we simply surrender to His sovereignty and worship God alone?
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