“…join me in my struggle…” Romans 15:30b

Paul made an urgent appeal to the church in Rome, that they would join him in his struggle by their prayer support. Filled with love for Paul by The Spirit’s power, and praying in the power of Jesus’ name, the Roman Christians could intercede for Paul to be rescued from the treatment by unbelievers in Judea, and successfully deliver the needed funds to the poor in Jerusalem (vv. 30 – 31).

This passage reveals forethought and intentionality in Paul’s living: he kept his commitments; was willing to suffer for his high calling; and all the while trusting in God to work all things out for the good (v.32). Paul’s hope was to see those in Rome as soon as he was able and be “refreshed” by them.

Friendship is such a heavenly blessing. True friends fight for you on their knees… supporting you in the struggles of life by their prayers. Reunion with friends – both lifelong and recently acquainted friendships – bring refreshment to the soul. Cherish those you love and be refreshed by their presence at every opportunity God ordains.

Before extending personal greetings to those within the church, Paul once again extended a blessing to the Roman Christians stating, “The God of peace be with you all.” For the tenth time in the letter, Paul points them to peace. While love is the primary evidence of being a follower of Christ, peace is the mirror of a healthy church. One could easily be convinced that the theme of Romans is peace: peace with God; personal peace; peace with others; and peace within the church. The first century church withstood early attacks that stemmed from apostacy to ministry approach. Yet, God preserved the body of Christ to be a template for future Christians and a light to the world.

Friends, join me in my struggle by praying for me. Pray for an open door of ministry for me, and for the next time I can be refreshed by your presence. I write these vignettes from the love in my heart for all of you.

Have a blessed day…

“…they owe it to them.” Romans 15:27b

Paul notified the church at Rome of his impending visit, which he would include in the itinerary of his mission trip to Spain (vv. 23 – 24). His immediate focus, however, was to act as a deliveryman. Paul had visited Christian faith fellowships in Macedonia (what we know as Northern and Central Greece) and Achaia (Southern Greece) which had donated funds to be used for ministry to poor Christians in Jerusalem (vv. 25 – 26). This gift was given cheerfully by the Grecian Gentile Christians. Paul saw it as a mutually beneficial relationship between the fellow Believers. He described it this way:

“They were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For if the Gentiles have shared in the Jews’ spiritual blessings, they owe it to the Jews to share with them their material blessings.” (v.27)

The Jews’ spiritual blessing is found in Jesus Christ, the fulfilled promise of a Messiah Who would bless all nations. Having accepted Christ as their own Savior, the Gentile-Christians were all the more eager to share with their less fortunate Jewish-Christian brothers and sisters in Jerusalem. Though they were not of the same race, they held in common the same Savior. Jesus breaks the boundaries which separate people – bringing them together as a Holy Nation – not a race of people known by their genetic code, but known by God for their faith (read 1 Peter 2:9 & Ephesians 5:27).

Paul reminded the Roman Christians of his pending trip to Spain – including his stop-over in Rome, after first delivering his sacred assignment. Once Paul was finished with his task, he promised to arrive, “in the full measure of the blessing of Christ.” (vv. 28 – 29) What would allow Paul to have such a full measure of blessing? By completing a sacred assignment which required trust and accountability: trust by those Grecian Christians to confidently endow Paul with the funds and the responsibility to deliver them; and accountability by the Jerusalem Christians who would joyfully receive the gift. HE OWED IT TO THEM… these were the very people he had persecuted prior to his conversion. They were hesitant to receive him after his conversion, yet God worked through the situation to provide Paul a pathway to reconciliation (read Acts 9:1-31).

The beauty of the Christian community is their commitment to reconciliation. We forgive and reconcile… because Christ first forgave and reconciled us to The Father. We all need forgiveness from others. When we do receive it and demonstrate a true change, there is a full measure of blessing in Christ!

Have a blessed day…

“…I glory in Christ Jesus…” Romans 15:17

Recognizing the Roman Christians as competent to instruct each other (v.14), Paul admitted he had written boldly on certain things to remind them they were God’s people. He wasn’t nagging them about wrong living as much as pointing them to right living, which was his priestly duty (vv. 15 – 16). Paul was concerned with both what they believed AND how they behaved, for the two go hand in hand.

Paul then explained how God had dispensed through him the grace to proclaim Christ to the Gentiles. In fact, it was that calling in which he declared, “I glory in Christ Jesus”. (v.17) In other words, Paul’s passion was all about preaching Christ to others. He even qualified the calling by dedicating it exclusively to the Gentiles who would be sanctified by the Holy Spirit as an acceptable offering to God (vv. 16 – 17). He articulated it this way:

“…I have fully proclaimed the gospel of Christ. It has always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known, so that I would not be building on someone else’s foundation.” (vv. 19 - 20)

Again, drawing from the sacred texts, Paul cited Isaiah’s words:

“Those who were not told about him will see, and those who have not heard will understand.” (Isaiah 52:15)

Paul was so committed to this calling of preaching to Gentiles that it had prevented him from visiting the church at Rome. He promised to visit them on his missionary trip to Spain (vv. 22 – 24). He wasn’t one to just count the number of converts. He was truly interested in their spiritual development… to be more like Christ!

How are we to ‘glory in Christ Jesus’? Paul’s passion was found in preaching to those who had never heard the gospel of Christ. In what ways can the message of Christ be sown in the passion of your life? Some people are passionate about hunting and fishing. Could the food from those endeavors be given to the poor along with an invitation to come hear about the Savior at church? Could those whose passion is business find a way to help the less fortunate start a business while pointing them to Christ? Do you see my point? Our passions would all lead to the same bold declaration:

“I glory in Christ Jesus!”

Have a blessed day…

“…Gentiles will hope in Him.” Romans 15:12d

The life and death of our Savior confirmed the promises made to the patriarchs of Israel that the Gentiles (non-Jews or other nations) would join Israel in worshiping God for His mercies (vv. 8 – 9). To press the point, God led Paul to the inspired ancient texts, where he cited:

• 2 Samuel 22:50, “…I will praise you among the nations…”;

• Deuteronomy 32:43, “Rejoice, O nations, with His people…”;

• Psalm 117:1, “Praise The Lord, all you nations; extol Him, all you peoples.”

• Isaiah 11:10, “…the Root of Jesse will spring up, one Who will arise to rule over the nations; the Gentiles will hope in Him.”

As God breathed into Paul the hope of inclusion for the Gentile nations, Paul was led to another moment of worship which offered this benediction:

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

The hope Paul is referring to is found in the power of God to remove the barriers separating mankind. He removes the barriers of race, creed, wealth, education, sex, and geography. People from every tribe and tongue will lift up Jesus before the world as the Savior and Redeemer of mankind. Some translations of the Isaiah eleven passage above read like this:

“In that day the Root of Jesse will stand as a banner for the peoples…”

Many of you know I live just eight miles from our nation’s capital. The Marine Corps War Memorial, also known as the Iwo Jima Memorial, stands just to the north of The National Cemetery at Arlington. The memorial is an oversized sculpture of the now famous picture taken near the end of the battle for the island 750 miles south of Japan. The picture was taken during a re-enactment of the US flag being raised as a standard atop Mount Suribachi because the original flag placed there was much smaller. The iconic photograph captured the moment six marines were brought together to lift the standard of freedom. Three of those marines were killed in action just days after the photograph was taken. It is the only photograph to win a Pulitzer Peace prize award the same year it was taken.

In a similar fashion, Jesus is the banner being lifted up for all the world to see. Jesus stated that if He were lifted up from the earth, He would draw ALL men unto Himself (John 12:32). Jesus was lifted up on a cruel cross as He took the sins of man upon Himself, which is why all nations lift Him up as the standard of righteousness and love, to which we pledge our allegiance.

Aren’t you glad God included us – who were far from Him – to be included with His chosen people (Ephesians 2:13-14)? There is no one so lost that God cannot find; no one so utterly hopeless, that God cannot restore; no one so wicked, that God cannot redeem. He is calling you to Himself. Open your mind and heart and surrender to His love.

When you see the picture of the flag being raised at Iwo Jima, do you see how those six soldiers were brought so close together for their common purpose? Will you join those raising the standard of love by lifting up Jesus as the Savior?

Have a blessed day…

“…Christ has become a servant…” Romans 15:8a

The Living Word became a servant of Israel to fulfill The Word given to them concerning God’s intent to bless the entire world through them (Genesis 18:18, 22:18&27, 26:4, 28:13-14; Psalm 86:9, 96:3; Daniel 7:14; Isaiah 42:1, 49:6, 60:1-3; Malachi 1:11; Acts 3:25, 10:45, 11:1, 28:28; Galatians 3:8&14), and it was done through the reconciling actions of Jesus’ life and death. That’s a lot to take in… think about it a bit. Did you read all the references I provided? Do you see how God’s plan had been at work from the very beginning?

At first, God’s covenant was one based on fulfilling the requirements of the law. The new covenant is based on grace. The promises of both are completely fulfilled through Christ. Paul described it to the Corinthians this way:

“For no matter how many promises God has made, they are (all) ‘Yes’ in Christ.”              (2 Corinthians 1:20)

The word for “servant” in today’s focus is the Greek word, “diakonon”. Servants in Roman culture were poor free citizens who offered themselves to perform household, business, and property management for those with means to hire them. Each servant had a specialized function. In Christ, we discover His specialized service through His death – to reconcile both Jew and Gentile to God (v.8b-c).

As we grow in our relationship with Christ, we become more like Him (1 Corinthians 11:1; 2 Corinthians 3:17-18, 5:17; Ephesians 4:22-24; 1 John 2:6, 3:2-3) – being a servant of God to fulfill a specific assignment which will glorify God. For some it may mean dying as Christ did; for most it means living for Him as a light in darkness. In either case, God is glorified.

God’s promise included you and me… He said, “Yes!” to you! And to me as well! We also ought to say, “Yes!” to Him: yes to walking in His way; yes to denying sin; yes to loving others; and yes to being transformed into His likeness (Romans 8:29-30; 1 Corinthians 15:46-49; Philippians 3:21; Colossians 3:10).

Have a blessed day…

“…just as Christ accepted you…” Romans 15:7b

Christian, in today’s passage spiritually strong followers of Christ are directed to “…bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.” (Romans 15:1) In other words, the stronger Christian should not be so engrossed in the pursuits of life’s pleasures that weaker Christians are marginalized or ignored. Paul taught that Christians should be intentional in working for another’s good (specifically he said neighbor, and could very well have been intimating the parable of The Good Samaritan told by Christ; v.2; Luke 10:25-37) by building-up one another.

Even Jesus did not seek to gratify His own personal preferences (v.3; read Matthew 20:22-23; Mark 14:36; Luke 22:42) and Paul supported this assertion with a prophetic verse from Psalm 69:9, “The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.” Christ took on the sin of man upon a cross, as well as the insults aimed at God, The Father! Reflecting on the Old Testament verse, Paul described the power of The Word to give hope:

“For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” (v.4)

Scripture is not just a historical reference; it is a dynamic power to lend hope and confidence in Christ to work all things out for the good!  Paul is then led into a moment of worship as God breathed a benediction through him:

“May the God Who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord, Jesus Christ.” (vv. 5 – 6)

When we “…do what leads to peace…” (v.19; see yesterday’s blog), God gives to each Believer endurance to run the race of life, as well as encouragement to preserve the unity of the Body. Why is this so important? Paul did not mince words by stating that a unified Body clearly articulates the message of salvation with one heart and mouth, and brings glory to God in the process! We are designed to worship, and the glory we give God in worship is enhanced exponentially when the church knows a spirit of unity.

While we are doing what leads to peace, we are to bear with the failings of weaker Believers. We are much too quick to throw the relationship away… and function on the convenience principle. Christian, the Christian walk is not a convenient walk, it is a run into battle! Paul directs us today through two thousand years of history to: “Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.” (v.7)

This is not an easy assignment. We all have other Christians in our lives requiring an extra dose of grace from us. Perhaps it is a personality thing. Perhaps it is just as Paul described – one Christian is weak in an area of life and needs others to come along her/him to redeem and restore that weaker one. In any case, the church is made up of EGR Christians (Extra Grace Required). We are all broken in some way or another, and where one is weak, another may be strong… dispensing the extra grace required for the moment.  When a Christian is focused on him/herself, the ability to perceive the obvious need is lost.

So, we approach each other daily with an unspoken plea: Will you bear with my weakness? Will you sharpen me as iron sharpens iron? Will you build me up? I write these vignettes on a daily basis in hope that someone out there is being built up in hope.

Have a blessed day and a great weekend!

“…do what leads to peace…” Romans 14:19

All of Romans 14 deals with accepting and encouraging those within the body of faith – whether they display strong or weak faith. Paul made a case against legalism and the efforts some insist are necessary for their spiritual development, such as dietary restrictions (vv. 1 – 6). Believers were directed to stop passing judgment on others (v.13) and respect another’s faith practice – even though it may be different.

There are three other five word phrases that bear highlighting:

1.     “Who are you to judge…” (v.4a) – Paul reasoned with the Roman Christians that no-one owns the patent on Christianity, except Christ. What may be seen as right practice in one person’s eyes may be the wrong practice from another’s perspective.

2.     “…we belong to the Lord.” (v.8c) – Paul taught that in our living, we live to the Lord, and in our dying we die to the Lord. No-one lives to himself… there are no Lone Rangers in Christ’s Kingdom.

3.     “…let us stop passing judgment…” (v.13) – Again, Paul brought a rational line of thought before Believers, stating all would stand before God in judgment (vv. 9 – 12).

Asserting that God’s Kingdom was not concerned with matters of eating and drinking. Paul wrote that righteousness, peace, and joy in the life of Faith-walkers are the things that please God (v.17). Paul concluded this portion of his letter with these words:

“Let us therefore make every effort to DO WHAT LEADS TO PEACE and to mutual edification. Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food. All food is clean, but it is wrong for a man to eat anything that causes someone else to stumble. It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother to fall.” (vv. 19 – 21)

Though we do not live to please others, we must be conscious of those things which may cause another Believer to stumble. Believers should be cautious about public consumption of alcohol, overeating, and even declaring one day more sacred than another! It seems Paul extended grace far more than judgment toward others, and we should as well. He wisely advised that whatever one believes about food, drink, and sacred days should be kept between God and oneself – without judging others for having different thoughts on the matter. By practicing this wise counsel, Believers DO WHAT LEADS TO PEACE.

Let’s be peacemakers. Have a blessed day…

“…wake up from your slumber…” Romans 13:11b

Directly confronting the readers with their cultural compromise, Paul got quite specific. He advised the Roman Christians to understand the present time (v.11a) and to stop sleeping on the job. Writing in almost sagacious mystery, Paul declared, “…our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here.”  (v.11b-c) The apostle was pointing to the Savior’s return. The first century church founders lived with the glorious hope of Christ’s return: they had seen His ascension and heard the angel predict His return in the same manner as they saw Him ascend (read Acts 1:9-11)! They looked excitedly and expectantly for Jesus to again burst on the world scene and establish His eternal Kingdom.

Because of such a holy expectation, Paul detailed the cultural compromises which the Roman Christians had not addressed. He called them “…deeds of darkness…” (v.12c), and were unbecoming of a child of God. Paul instructed them to “…put on the armor of light.” (v.12d) To have no misunderstanding, Paul detailed those actions to steer-clear from: orgies, drunkenness, sexual immorality, debauchery, dissension and jealousy.

It’s hard to believe that such things were an accepted part of their social culture when Christians are to be salt and light (read Matthew 5:13-16) – change agents within every culture to bring a good and holy perspective to the world. Paul provided an alternative for the Roman Christians to consider:

“Rather, clothe yourselves with The Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature.” (v.14)

How does one change a life pattern? Life patterns can be changed through being volitional about what one wants to become. Intentional living is purposeful living – the choice has been made… it is not, as many would assert, a natural stimulus-response reaction. One can redirect the thinking pattern to change. It works for any besetting behavioral challenge. And God gives the power for one to be an overcomer!

Jesus IS coming back! WAKE UP FROM YOUR SLUMBER and look for His return! Live as children of light… be an overcomer!

Have a blessed day…

“Love your neighbor as yourself.” Romans 13:9g

The statement Paul used to transition between instructions on responsible living and directing the first century Christian to love is really quite ingenious. After teaching that Christians should pay their taxes, their loans and even homage to whom such is due, Paul stated:

“Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law.”

With apostolic authority, Paul cites the decalogue asserting today’s five understandable words fulfill the intent of the law (vv. 9 – 10).  He pressed the point by stating such twice: once in verse eight and once in verse ten.

The first century Jew, like today, lived under the paradigm of Mosaic law. Levitical law became a part of this system, a collection of over six hundred commands which were all deemed God-breathed, and therefore essential for holy living. By asserting that loving one’s neighbor as being the fulfillment of the law, Paul further validated his authority and confidence of the letter’s recipients – as most first century Christians were Jews. Paul’s statement also reflects on the words of Christ, Who spoke similar words on fulfilling the law: “Do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the law and the prophets.” (Matthew 7:12)

Like the first century Christian, we are reminded today to love each other. So often, we lose the clarion call to love each other. The stresses of life often distract the Faith-walker to focus on the urgent and forget what is really important – people. People matter to God. That is why God gave His only Son to die upon a cross, so that people might be reconciled to Him (John 3:16). In fact, it was God’s ultimate display of love to humanity! So, you see, love is pretty high on God’s appraisal of humanity.

LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.

We need to stop looking after number one, and start looking out for others.

Have a blessed day…

“…the authorities are God’s servants…” Romans 13:6b

Paul recognized the reality of living under Roman rule and directed the church at Rome to submit to the governing authorities (v.1a). This made for rather difficult living, as Rome recognized the emperor as a God and Christians only recognized God revealed through His Trinitarian nature: The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God breathed into Paul a reasonable argument for this position: that there was no established authority except that which God had allowed (v.1b&c).

With the Judaic historical perspective, Paul was encouraging the first century church to trust God, not man. God raises up rulers and nations, while deposing others (Daniel 2:21). Jesus reinforced this biblical view at His own trial before Pilate, the Roman authority over Jerusalem. It seemed Pilate could not get Jesus to testify on His own behalf, leading to Pilate’s question:

“Don’t you realize I have power either to free you or to crucify you?”

Jesus replied with these words:

“You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above. Therefore, the one who handed me over to you is guilty of a greater sin.”

Paul, in effect, is using The Savior’s life example as a basis for this position. Even though faced with death, Christian’s who follow Christ’s example demonstrate faith in God’s sovereignty and trust God’s good plan – which may mean an early entry into eternity.

Paul asserted the position further by stating: “…he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.” (v.2) Many pre-revolutionary preachers used these words in speaking against any conflict with England. However, they failed to include the rest of the passage:

“For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. For he is God’s servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God’s servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience.” (vv. 3 – 5)

Did the words, “he is God’s servant to do you good” seem to jump off the page? God created three institutions which He blessed: the home, the community of faith, and government. Each are designed with the intention of blessing those who comprise them. The chain of humanity is only as strong as its weakest link, and it starts with the home. From the beginning, God established authority to keep in-check fallen mankind:

1. in the home, parents teach the way of right living and provide a loving, caring environment for their children to grow;

2. in the faith community, God calls leaders who devote themselves to The Word to teach and lead those who are drawn to its light;

3. in government, God established authority to ensure civility and commerce.

Paul also enlightened the reader of one reason citizens pay taxes: to pay those in authority (first responders – police, fire and emergency personnel; judges; rulers). He directed Christians to be responsible in paying their taxes, debts and honoring/respecting those deserving of it. Paying taxes is the responsibility of citizens to have those social gifts.

This passage reaches out to us today to thank God for our governing authorities, for THE AUTHORITIES ARE GOD’S SERVANTS, appointed for such a time. Trust God with how it all works out.

Have a blessed day…

“Bless those who persecute you…” Romans 12:14a

In his commissioning address to the first century church of Rome, after explaining how they were to live out their faith before each other, Paul explained how they were to live out their faith to an unbelieving world (vv. 14 – 21):

1.     Believers are to bless those who persecute the church. In other words, God’s love is to be extended in practical ways to those who mistreat those who carry the name of Christ to a darkened world (v.14a). Paul provided a qualifier to the first item on the list, namely, to be intentional – not reactionary. One’s reactive default may be to curse those who malign, abuse, or mistreat the faith community. Instead, Paul instructed just the opposite is to be done (v.14b).

2.     Followers of Christ are to empathize with others, thereby building a relational bridge between Christ and those who do not know His restorative love (v.15). When we celebrate the joys and understand the sorrows of those we meet, we become intentional in connecting with others’ hearts, sharing the commonality of life’s joys and crises.

3.     Paul directed Christians to live harmoniously with their fellow believers and, as much as personally able, to live at peace with everyone (vv. 16 & 18). He provided clarification on this point by adding some qualifiers:

a.     Knowing that God resists the proud (Psalm 18:27,  31:23, 138:6; Proverbs 3:34, 6:17, 8:13, 15:25, 29:23; Isaiah 23:9; Daniel 4:37), Christians are not to act overly proud, being willing to associate with the poor and underprivileged without conceit.

b.     Faith-walkers do not repay a wrong with another wrong, trusting God as The Avenger of wrongs (vv.17 & 19).

c.      Paul echoed Solomon’s words when he directed Christians to be intentional toward the enemies of the cross, offering food and drink to them (Proverbs 25:21&22; also see Jesus’ similar teaching in Matthew 5:43 – 48).

d.     Paul summed this section up with these words:

“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (v.21)

‘Followship’ to Christ makes one a target for the world which despises Christ and His Kingdom. The disciple whom Jesus loved wrote: “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world – the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does – comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.” (1 John 2:15-17; also read James 4:4) This passage is speaking about worldly systems – not people. The Christian must struggle against the tendency to judge non-believers and, at the same time, be intentional about avoiding the traps of worldliness. Christ lives through the lives of those who impact others’ lives by random acts of love, kindness, empathy, and sympathy.

In the rest of the letter to the Roman church, Paul provides further clarification and explanation of the nuances in interpersonal relationships, being in the world without being of the world, personal greetings, and other teaching.

Contemporary American society is resembling the first century Roman culture more each day. Christians will experience with increasing frequency the world’s disdain for Christ and His people. Nevertheless, Christians are to adopt Paul’s counsel to the Romans and be the only Jesus those in their circle of influence will ever see. Be ready to BLESS THOSE WHO PERSECUTE YOU.

Have a blessed day…

“Honor one another above yourselves.” Romans 12:10b

After describing the cooperative dynamic between Christians within a church, Paul commissioned the Roman church by describing how they were to live out their faith. He first addressed how they were to practice their faith between each other:

1.     Asserting that love must be genuine (v.9a);

2.     Directing them to hate all evil (v.9b);

3.     Commanding them to cling to goodness – God’s number-one character trait (v.9c);

4.     Leading them to be devoted to one another in brotherly love (v.10a);

5.     Teaching them how devotion to each other is achieved –

HONOR ONE ANOTHER ABOVE YOURSELVES (v.10b);

6.     Exhorting them to keep their spiritual fervor for serving the Lord zealously (v.11);

7.     Their hope was to be expressed joyfully (v.12a);

8.     They were to endure affliction patiently (v.12b);

9.     Their prayers were to be offered faithfully to God (v.12c);

10.  They were to practice hospitality, especially to the poorer members (v.13).

Paul provided the Corinthian church with a more thorough explanation of genuine love (read 1 Corinthians 13). Genuine love is patient, kind, never envious, boastful, proud, rude, self-seeking or easily angered; and authentic love keeps no record of wrongs, and neither does love delight in evil. Indeed, genuine love rejoices in the truth, protects, trusts, hopes, and perseveres. In this description, Paul offered sixteen verbs, eight of which were positive and eight of which were negative.

The late-coming apostle also elaborated on the difference between evil and good in his letter to the Galatians (read chapter 5, verses 13-26). Paul espoused the attributes of freedom: not to be abused by indulging the sinful nature, but to extend God’s love to each other and the world. He described how good and evil are in conflict with each other (vv. 16 – 17). He described the sinful nature as obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, debauchery, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, discord (dissensions and factions), jealousy, fits of rage, selfishness, envy, drunkenness, and orgies (Galatians 5:19-21). There was no mincing of terms, Paul wanted them to know without a doubt that the culture of the world is completely different from God’s desire for people. God desires His people to know and practice the fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (vv. 22 – 23).

The lives of Christ-followers are just as obvious as those who live evil lives. Goodness sets one apart as a persistent light in a world of darkness. When Christians honor one another above themselves, they exhibit authentic love which is the litmus test before the world of being a fully devoted follower of Christ (read John 13:35).

I highly recommend the book by Charles Colson, “The Body”. Though lengthy, it is one of the best books on the subject of the church: its mission and dynamics. I also highly recommend books by Jim Cymballa, pastor of Brooklyn Tabernacle Church (“The Church God Blesses”; “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire”, and others).

HONOR ONE ANOTHER ABOVE YOURSELVES.

Have a blessed day…

“…one body with many members…” Romans 12:4a

Membership has its benefits:

• At the local golf club, a member is able to secure a guaranteed tee-time;

• In a diner’s club, a member is given first priority to a table;

• In a fraternity, a member has assistance in completing the rigors of education while in school, as well as the collective resources of the organization in securing work after graduation;

• Amazon Prime membership provides an entire truckload of reasons to shop with the retail giant.

However, Paul was not referring to Christians being “members” in a club, fraternity, or for a shopping advantage. To some, being a member in a church may have some benefits: ability to reserve the fellowship hall; after-school care for the kids; guaranteed VBS acceptance; various retreats and concerts. In Romans 12:3-8, Paul explained first century church membership:

• God gives each member a measure of grace (v.3a);

• God gives each member a measure of faith (v.3e);

• Not all members share the same function within The Body (v.4b);

• The many members come together in forming one Body – the church (v.5a);

• Each member is connected to all the others (v.5b);

• Each member is uniquely gifted according to the grace God has bestowed (v.6a);

  • One who prophesies should do so in proportion to his faith (v.6b),

  • One who serves should do so without restraint (v.7a),

  • One who teaches should do so with excellence (v.7b),

  • One who encourages others should do so freely (v.8a),

  • One who gives should do so generously (v.8b),

  • One who leads should do so diligently (v.8c),

  • One who shows mercy should do so cheerfully (v.8d).

This list is not an exhaustive list of every God-given gift, only examples God breathed into Paul to show the heart and benefit of gifts when used cooperatively within The Body – the church. There is such a diversity of races, nations, and gifts within The Body (1 Corinthians 12:12-27)!

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful.” (Colossians 3:15)

Thank God with me that we are ONE BODY WITH MANY MEMBERS!

Have a blessed day…

“…your spiritual act of worship.” Romans 12:1e

Would you be interested in conducting a spiritual test that will prove what God’s good pleasing and perfect will is for your life(v.3)? Paul speaks through two thousand years to encourage Believers to consider God’s mercies, which He has lavished on us all, and be motivated by such to live holy lives. Each of our lives is evidence of God’s mercies, and when we live lives set apart for Him – His Kingdom, His ways – that holy living becomes a spiritual act of worship.

Paul described this spiritual act of worship as (v.1):

·       A living sacrifice – it’s not dead and lifeless; people live volitionally – we make decisions based on our values;

·       Holy to God – sanctified by God’s power for fulfilling His purposes, shining His righteousness to a watching world;

·       Pleasing to God – He takes great delight in those who live holy lives and carry His name before the world.

So, how is this spiritual act of worship to be accomplished? Believers are to resist any effort by the world to be conformed to its pattern (lying, cheating, killing, adulterating, etc.), and to renew one’s mind by the transforming power of God’s living Word (v.2).

The trouble with a living sacrifice is that it keeps crawling off the altar. Our humanity gets in the way, insisting on satisfying the lusts of one’s flesh, worshiping the unholy trinity of “me, myself, and I”. The solution for that is by dying to sin and self, while living for Christ.

These first two verses of chapter twelve are a conclusion drawn by Paul for pointing the Roman Christians away from the licentious Roman culture and toward the purity and sanctity of holy living – making each Believer a shining example of goodness which points to God and His righteousness.

Have you considered YOUR SPIRITUAL ACT OF WORSHIP?

Have a blessed day…

“To Him be the glory…” Romans 11:36b

As Paul peered into the wonder of God’s working: preserving a remnant; ingrafting the branches of the Gentiles into the Vine of Life; and being informed as to the mystery and dynamics of election, he was moved to a moment of worship. Verses thirty-three through thirty-six lead the reader to marvel at God’s:

• Wisdom for creating man in His image (v.33a);

• Knowledge to understand man’s fallen nature (v.33a);

• Judgments on punishing sin while providing the penalty for it (v.33b);

• Unfathomable mind (v.34); and

• Limitless resources (vv. 35 – 36a).

Had God made us into a completely different creature unable to relate to His character of goodness, then perhaps God’s wisdom would be questioned. However, by giving us a spirit which is completed when found in His grace, one understands more fully God’s wisdom in how mankind was created.

Man’s fall in The Garden of Eden could not be kept hidden from God, just as all sin is known by Him, for His eyes are in every place witnessing the evil and the good. Where man failed, God made a provision to restore His broken creation, making His understanding of man’s fallen nature remarkable.

God’s standard of righteousness requires a penalty when His laws for holiness have been violated. God’s judgments are never wrong, and it is only right for Him to expect holy living by those who claim to follow Him. God’s judgment to provide a Savior is fully just, as there is nothing in one’s own power which approaches the holiness of God. Only Jesus, Emmanuel – God with us, could become the payment for the sins of humanity.

God’s ways are not man’s ways. His mind is unfathomable. God’s economy is so foreign to ours:

• if you think you deserve to be first, you must go to the back of the line;

• we are strongest when we are at our weakest and Christ is working in and through us;

• one who has nothing to give may, in reality, be the biggest giver of all.

Everything we know to be creation became reality by God’s voice speaking it into existence. There is nothing we can claim as our own which we can give to God – not even our own selves. Each of us is a miracle of life, known by God while we were yet in the womb of our mother. God’s resources are limitless, and we can trust Him to care for our needs. If He can provide for the birds of the air and the flowers of the field, we can depend on Him to be our supply in all things.

To Him be the glory FOREVER! Can I hear an AMEN?

I am traveling over the next ten days. God willing, I will return to share with you from Romans 12 on Monday, August 12th. Please pray for Sandra and I to know God’s traveling mercies.

Blessings to all!

“…all Israel will be saved…” Romans 11:26

Having presented the reasonable, inspired sequence on the theology of election, Paul warned the first century Christians – and is warning us today – to not be conceited (v.25) by being ingrafted to the family of God. He explained that Israel has experienced a hardening of the heart “…until the full number of the Gentiles has come in.” (v.25b-c) In other words, God’s economy of salvation is both purposeful and intentional. Just as there was a purpose for Pharaoh’s heart to be hardened (to set the Hebrew slaves free), so there is a purpose for the present state of Israel’s unbelief: for the heart of Gentiles to connect to the heart of God.

God breathed into the mind of Paul to write: “And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: ‘The Deliverer will come from Zion; He will turn godlessness away from Jacob. And this is my covenant with them when I take away their sins.’” (vv. 26 – 27; Isaiah 59:20-21) Was this just wishful thinking by Paul? Was he delusional? It was the Jews who had demanded the release of Barabbas, offering up Jesus in his place for a cruel death upon a cross (John 18:40). To understand this statement, all good students of The Word will interpret it from the original text, as well as investigating how it lines-up with the rest of scripture. Paul used the Greek word, “pas” (PAS), an adjective in the nominative singular form. It modifies “Israel”, and the singular form shows it to definitively speak about the entire nation. Does this mean the entire nation from the time of its calling? Or does it mean the entire nation when Christ returns?

Israel’s hardening as a nation is neither total nor final, being temporary. The end of this hardening will be after the full number of Gentiles has been redeemed (v.25) – and only God knows the value of that number. Actually, there is a fulness for both the Jew and the Gentile Believer (see 11:12 also). It is during this period of hardening from Israel that God has chosen to visit His grace upon all non-Jews (read Acts 15:12-14). Though individual Jews have come to know God’s saving grace, the overwhelming number of born-again Believers are Gentiles of every race, color and creed. Once this period is complete, God will visit the Hebrew nation once again. God’s timing is perfect, and waiting on Him to complete His “until” is both wise and faithful. Actually, there are other “until” verses that deserve inspection in your own Bible study time (read Matthew 23:32-39; Luke 21:24; and Psalm 110:1).

Paul’s reference to all Israel being saved echoes back to Isaiah’s prophesy (read Isaiah 59:20-21 and Isaiah 60). God always keeps His promises, and Paul recognized such by stating, “…God’s gifts and His call are irrevocable.” (v.29) Though Israel may appear hostile to the gospel (v.28a), when it comes to election, God’s love hasn’t changed; what He promised to Israel’s patriarchs still stands (v.28b). Warren Wiersby offers a reasonable explanation to this passage in the Roman letter:

“There are those who interpret this as meaning salvation to individuals through the gospel, but it is my conviction that the prophet has national conversion in mind. ‘All Israel will be saved’ does not mean that every Jew who has ever lived will be converted, but that the Jews living when the Redeemer returns will see Him, receive Him, and be saved.” (The Weirsby Bible Commentary, New Testament; p.440, col. 2, pp. 3, ll. 4 – 10)

A thorough reading of Zechariah will reveal a remarkable prophesy which supports Dr. Wiersby’s statement (To get a thorough perspective read chapters 12 and 13):

“And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication. They will look on Me, The One they have pierced, and they will mourn for Him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for Him, as one grieves for a firstborn son.” (Zechariah 12:10; caps and bold mine)

There is something to be said about one mourning over one’s own sins: first, that Godly sorrow leads to repentance, thus reaching the ear of God; secondly, that such mourning will lead to living more holy – having received the mercy of God, as well as His grace for personal transformation. I thank God for being the God of second chances… and for providing the power to change in both heart and volition.

Recognizing the disobedience of both Gentiles and Jews, Paul explained that God allowed such to demonstrate His mercy on them all (to the Jew first and also the Gentile; vv. 30 – 32). Based on these prophesies and Paul’s explanation, Believers have every reason to anticipate a great outpouring of God’s Spirit upon Jesus’ return! What a great day of rejoicing that will be! A day when all Israel will be saved!!!

Looking to that day! Have a blessed day today…

“…they will be grafted in…” Romans 11:23b

After explaining ‘remnant theology’ to the first century Roman Jewish Christians, Paul described how those who have been “cut off” (pruned from The Vine – Jesus Christ; read John 15:5) by their unbelief may be grafted back into The Vine. That’s right… God is able, and evidently willing, to graft back in those who come to Him by faith after repentance. Paul was specifically speaking of Israel, concluding how those ‘natural branches’ which had been cut away from the vine could be grafted in all the easier by The Vine-dresser (v.24), being accepted by the vine more easily, since they were originally part of it.

I love the way Paul began this conversation, asking the question: “Did they (Israel) stumble so as to fall beyond recovery?” (v.11) As he had done with the other questions he posed, Paul answered by emphatically exclaiming, “Not at all!” He told how salvation had come to the Gentiles to make Israel envious (v.11). Paul asserted that the Jews would receive greater blessing for how God worked to bring salvation to the world (v.12) after being rejected by His own people – describing the Jews’ blessing as a resurrection (v.15). Paul likened the Jews to the part of the dough offered as first-fruits: God recognized it as holy, and if it is holy, then the whole doughball would be seen by God as holy; and in the same manner, if the root (the root of Jesse – Jesus Christ; Isaiah 11:10) is holy, so are the branches (whether they be grafted or natural).

Paul warned Christians that just as God pruned the natural branches from the vine, He may also choose to prune grafted branches which show signs of unfruitfulness (vv. 17 – 21). Now, I’m not real sure how that lines up with Romans 8:38-39, though it shows God’s expectation of authentic faith. Believers are to “consider, then, the kindness and sternness of God” (v.22a), His sternness to those who fell, and His kindness to those who repented and trusted in Him by faith (v.22b-c).

God is the God of second chances, showing just how profound His love is for each of us. He loves you and He loves me as if we were the only one on earth! He takes extreme measures to connect to every heart on earth… and He uses our stories to connect to others hearts, so that they will be grafted in to The Vine of Life and bear much fruit.

Have a blessed day…

“…a remnant chosen by grace.” Romans 11:5b

Many theologians have argued over the fate of Israel, seeing that Israel originated as the chosen people of God and delivered by His own hand from slavery, the sword, and snakebites. Paul posed another question to the Roman church: “Did God reject His people?” (v.1) He is asking this question as if speaking for those who were hearing the gospel Paul had shared to this point. He anticipated (through divine inspiration) the internal struggle they would experience with the idea of a new covenant of grace – which, by the way, was the original intent of the old covenant, that the Jews would point the world to God’s grace by their love for Him while propagating His righteous precepts (Genesis 26:4).

Paul again answered his own question with a resounding, “By no means!” (v.1b) He then described his own Hebrew pedigree: a descendent of Abraham (v.1c-d); and from the tribe of Benjamin (v.1e), confirming his relatability with those Jews who were present to hear his letter being read. Stating, “God did not reject His people, whom He foreknew,” Paul reinforced his assertion that the Jews had not been abandoned by The Creator (v.2a). The story of Israel was not over then… and it’s not over now… being written by The Author of time and history.

Borrowing a teaching style from The Messiah, Paul confronted those of Jewish descent who were sitting on the fence of indecision, asking, “Don’t you know what the Scripture says…?” This certainly received immediate attention by those who professed to be the descendants of Abraham, and rightful heirs to God’s favor. Are you curious as I about the passage Paul referred them to? It was the time when Elijah appealed to God… against Israel! This was when Elijah cried out in desperation:

“Lord, they have killed your prophets and torn down your altars; I am the only one left, and they are trying to kill me…”. (v.3; 1 Kings 19:10, 14)

How could things have gotten so bad in the nation that once stood for freedom, truth, and God’s righteous precepts? How did things unravel to the point that they were killing their own prophets – those who pointed them to the truth and the way of faith? It was while Elijah was running for his life that God told him to go out and stand on a mountain to witness God passing by. Elijah witnessed a wind storm so powerful that it actually caused destruction to a mountain! An earthquake followed the wind storm, and a terrible fire followed the earthquake. Those disastrous storms created such a terrible distraction that Elijah thought he had missed God’s presence, having retreated into a cave for safety. However, Elijah heard a gentle whisper that brought him out of the cave (1 Kings 19:12), and God asked him a question that had been posed just moments before: “What are you doing here?” (1 Kings 19:9b, 13e; makes for another great 5 Understandable Words vignette!)

Of course, Paul also included God’s reply to Elijah’s fearful answer:

“I have reserved for myself seven thousand who have not bowed the knee to Baal.” (v.4; 1 Kings 19:18)

Providing a conclusion to the Roman Jewish community, Paul joined their historical past with their current experience by stating, “So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace. And if by grace, then it is no longer by works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace.” (vv. 5 – 6) Just as God had preserved a remnant who had not bowed their knees to Baal (a false god created by an evil society), so God had also preserved a remnant of those from Jewish lineage who had embraced salvation by grace, not bowing to the gods of political correctness, peer influence, licentiousness or legalism.

This may sound like a broken record that perpetually skips to the same music after a few measures: God’s favor rests on those whom He chooses… and not by any effort one may exert toward gaining that favor.

How could things have gotten so bad in our nation in just two generations? How could so many of our pastors, televangelists, fathers, and Christians fail in their marriages, their churches, their families, and abandoned their faith? I believe it began with those who abandoned the practice of worship, failing to recognize the sacredness of a Sabbath’s rest. Isaiah gives us direction for today:

“If you keep your feet from breaking the Sabbath and from doing as you please on my holy day; if you call the Sabbath a delight and The Lord’s holy day honorable, and if you honor it by not going your own way and not doing as you please or speaking idle words, then you will find your joy in The Lord, and I will cause you to ride on the heights of the land and to feast on the inheritance of your father Jacob.” (Isaiah 58:13-14)

Do you see how God’s grace increases all the more? Forgiveness is His invention. Restoration is His character. Redemption is His to exercise. Every time one turns from sin and comes to Jesus in believing faith, that one joins a remnant chosen by grace.

Have a blessed weekend… and encourage your family, friends, work associates, and neighbors to come with you to worship!

“…who has believed our message?” Romans 10:16b

After explaining the essence of spiritual replication, Paul stated the obvious: “…not all the Israelites accepted the good news.” (v.16a) He then cited Isaiah 53:1 where the prophet asks God, “Lord, who has believed our message?” Without providing an immediate answer, Paul summarized the sequence leading to spiritual new birth (v.17) and asked, “Did they (Israel) not hear?”  (v.18a), and “Did Israel not understand?” (v.19a).

Having been commissioned by Christ to take the good news to the Gentiles (Acts 22:17-21), Paul always wrestled with why so many of his own people did not embrace salvation through faith in Christ. Citing from the ancient texts, Paul showed both his intimate knowledge of scripture and his skill to use the history found therein to tell ‘His story’ – how God offered His gift of faith to His chosen people AND the rest of the world:

• “Their voice has gone out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world.” (v. 18c; Psalm 19:4) All creation has declared the glory of God and the work of His hands. Who can deny God when the evidence of His existence is so great?

• “I will make you envious by those who are not a nation; I will make you angry by a nation that has no understanding.” (v.19; Deuteronomy 32:21) This prophesy, made after Israel had forsaken God by turning to idol worship, points to a time when God will show favor to another people (non-Jews) – resulting in an angry reaction by those who have been called His chosen. The serious Bible student will discover in the New Testament a pattern that recognizes efforts to reach the Jews first (Romans 1:16), then others:

  • Jesus began His ministry in Jewish communities;

  • When sending out His disciples on their first ministry assignment, Jesus forbade them to preach to the Gentiles or Samaritans (Matthew 10:1-6);

  • After His resurrection, Jesus commanded His disciples to wait in Jerusalem and begin their ministry there (Luke 24:46-49; Acts 1:8);

  • Acts 1-7 describes the first attempts of ministry to the Jews and Gentile proselytes to Judaism;

  • After the Jews condemned Stephen and executed him by stoning, God sent the disciples to the Samaritans (Acts 8:1-8) and the Gentiles (Acts 10).

• “I was found by those who did not seek Me; I revealed Myself to those who did not ask for me.” (v.20; Isaiah 65:1) These prophetic words again point to a time of salvation’s revelation to those who are far from God.

• “All day long I have held-out my hands to a disobedient and obstinate people.” (v.21; Isaiah 65:2) Perhaps this verse was prominent in Paul’s mind, being in Rome where Luke described Paul’s ministry to the Jews, expounding upon scripture to them “from morning till evening”, seeking to show convincing evidence that Jesus was the promised Messiah (Acts 28:23). It is God’s desire that all would come to repentance and faith in Christ (2 Peter 3:9), and God’s heart for His people has not changed, longing for their return and embracing His way of salvation by faith.

Here we are today, two thousand years later, still asking the question: who has believed our message? Christian organizations are still advancing the good news of Christ, developing strategies to reach the world with God’s grace through Christ’s sacrifice upon the cross.

What is the message your life is telling? What opportunities are Christians taking to take the message of salvation to their friends and neighbors? Who are you able to reach with salvation’s gift that no one else will ever be able to reach?

You’re the only Jesus some will ever see… and you’re the only words of life some will ever receive.

Have a blessed day…

“…those who bring good news.” Romans 10:15b

Moving from the inward confession of the heart, Paul moved to the outward profession by one’s mouth, confronting the church at Rome with another series of questions:

• How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? (v.14a)

• And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? (v.14b)

• And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? (v.14c)

• And how can they preach unless they are sent? (v.15a)

In rapid-fire succession, Paul brings authenticity, purpose and volition to the surface of their faith. If their faith was authentic (review chapters 5 & 6), their hearts would be moved to see the lost in need of a Savior. If the lost were to be presented the good new of the Savior, who better to share that news than those who have already heard and accepted Christ? What better purpose could their lives perform? If the Roman Christians were to be volitional in their faith, then the church (the eclessia - the ones called together) had to be intentional in recognizing each other’s gifting – including those who had the gift of evangelism.

Those who possessed this God-given gift of grace have a quality of approaching people in a non-threatening way, assessing one’s spiritual condition and sharing the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. Paul emphasized the point through the words God breathed through Isaiah:

“How beautiful are the feet of those who bring the good news!” (v.15b; Isaiah 52:7)

God makes all things beautiful in His time (Ecclesiastes 3:11), and as one matures in Christ, He equips the Believer to share his/her story of salvation. Yes, there are some who are gifted in telling the good news. However, all Believers are commissioned to share their story of faith (read Matthew 28:18-22). When a Believer shares the good news, God declares her/his feet to be anointed in beauty, for the most beautiful thing in God’s eyes is seeing Jesus in those He has made in His image.

People all around us need the Lord. Pray for God to provide the opportunity to share your story of faith in Christ.

Have a blessed day…