by Charles E Ramsey
This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all.
Showing newest posts with label Charles E Ramsey. Show older posts
Showing newest posts with label Charles E Ramsey. Show older posts
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Mt Pleasant Sunday
This morning we drove up to Mt Pleasant in time for church. I recorded Dad with my MXL USB.008. Somehow it acts differently on Windows 7 than it did with XP. It shouldn't on the same laptop, but somehow I couldn't keep it from clipping even with the gain switched to -20db. That I forgot my shock mount probably didn't help, but the audio is clean enough (Lisa is still coughing from her recent bout with cold or flu).
After church we went to "the farm" for a dinner of smoked turkey, hash brown casserole, home baked bread with butter and Gabby's crabapple jelly.
Pat, Jo, Lee, and Barbie joined us for an afternoon of food and fellowship. Nine people crowded around Dad's table for pre-Thanksgiving feast.
I didn't record dinner, but here is Dad's sermon . . .
After church we went to "the farm" for a dinner of smoked turkey, hash brown casserole, home baked bread with butter and Gabby's crabapple jelly.
Pat, Jo, Lee, and Barbie joined us for an afternoon of food and fellowship. Nine people crowded around Dad's table for pre-Thanksgiving feast.
I didn't record dinner, but here is Dad's sermon . . .
Joy and Justice
Thursday, April 9, 2009
What’s important?
by John D Ramsey
Today was a long grueling day full of risks with lasting implications. It was not business as usual. Business as usual is hard enough most days. This was harder. Taking action fully knowing the outcome is inglorious frightened me, but it apparently did not deter me. “Time will tell,” the saying goes. C’est la guerre, such is business.
I drove to work while the nearly full moon was up. An hour later, I stood in an early empty office building watching a red sunrise portending a stormy day. It was Black Ops Thursday; but this day the office camaraderie would defer to crisis management. There was no playbook, just the Black Ops team and me sticking our necks out and asking, “Is there a better way?” I made mistakes: public mistakes. I hope no one else remembers them, but I know I will. As a programmer, I expected to make mistakes, as a manager I loathe them.
There were encouragements. Black Ops Thursday is catching on. I tried to thank each person who wore black today. I noticed on my way out this afternoon that I had overlooked someone. Well, thank you, belatedly. I appreciate the show of support. I expect an announcement soon that Black Ops is no longer a command hierarchy, but rather a grassroots quality initiative emphasizing teamwork and intensity.
If I had a choice, I would have focused this week on the Passion of Christ. Instead, too much urgency held me too long in the office. Today, Thursday, marks the day of the Crucifixion. Yes, I know churches celebrate Good Friday, but the Gospels do not support the same conclusion as the Church. That should not be surprising; the Bible seldom aligns with theological or ecclesiological systems. Or rather, theological and ecclesiological systems seldom align with the Bible. If they did, we wouldn’t meet in churches, or pass collection bucket-bag-plates, and pastors wouldn’t deliver oratory. All that is convenient church tradition, but it isn’t Scriptural. That’s my assertion, but don’t take my word for it, read the Book without picking up a commentary.
Likewise, we shouldn’t be surprised to find that there are too many conflicts in the Gospel records to support a Friday crucifixion. Nevertheless, a Thursday crucifixion aligns all the Gospel accounts perfectly. I had wanted to explore all the evidence. Instead, I settled for some “tweets” on the topic. Last year, I wrote out dozens of questions and corresponding Scripture passages. Dad reminded me on Twitter that I had done that. I have 19 pages of questions and answers that I wrote for the men’s Bible Study I taught and may teach again. If you’re interested in studying it, just email me and I’ll clean it up a bit and send it to you.
Tonight, I need to wrap this up. Tomorrow’s challenges await. As I reflect on my week, I regret not focusing on what I think is important. Such introspections are selfish by nature, however. Doing what is put in front of me is important even if it is not what I want it to be.
As a consolation, I remind myself that this morning before I even spotted the moon or the red sunrise, as I was leaving to head to the office, Gabby rushed downstairs to say goodbye. She stood in the garage bleary-eyed and struggling to wake up. It was 04:30 hours, but she awakened to say goodbye. I told her, “There’s my early girl.” She smiled, and I gave her a hug and kiss before starting the car and heading to work.
Had I not needed to sacrifice my schedule for the needs of the office, Gabby would never have needed to awaken so early just to kiss me goodbye. Nevertheless, waking to the sound of the garage door and rushing down to see me in the morning was important to her.
I drove to work while the nearly full moon was up. An hour later, I stood in an early empty office building watching a red sunrise portending a stormy day. It was Black Ops Thursday; but this day the office camaraderie would defer to crisis management. There was no playbook, just the Black Ops team and me sticking our necks out and asking, “Is there a better way?” I made mistakes: public mistakes. I hope no one else remembers them, but I know I will. As a programmer, I expected to make mistakes, as a manager I loathe them.
There were encouragements. Black Ops Thursday is catching on. I tried to thank each person who wore black today. I noticed on my way out this afternoon that I had overlooked someone. Well, thank you, belatedly. I appreciate the show of support. I expect an announcement soon that Black Ops is no longer a command hierarchy, but rather a grassroots quality initiative emphasizing teamwork and intensity.
- Lead from the front
- Lead by example
- Follow the one who is leading
- Defer to authority
- Be accountable to all
If I had a choice, I would have focused this week on the Passion of Christ. Instead, too much urgency held me too long in the office. Today, Thursday, marks the day of the Crucifixion. Yes, I know churches celebrate Good Friday, but the Gospels do not support the same conclusion as the Church. That should not be surprising; the Bible seldom aligns with theological or ecclesiological systems. Or rather, theological and ecclesiological systems seldom align with the Bible. If they did, we wouldn’t meet in churches, or pass collection bucket-bag-plates, and pastors wouldn’t deliver oratory. All that is convenient church tradition, but it isn’t Scriptural. That’s my assertion, but don’t take my word for it, read the Book without picking up a commentary.
Likewise, we shouldn’t be surprised to find that there are too many conflicts in the Gospel records to support a Friday crucifixion. Nevertheless, a Thursday crucifixion aligns all the Gospel accounts perfectly. I had wanted to explore all the evidence. Instead, I settled for some “tweets” on the topic. Last year, I wrote out dozens of questions and corresponding Scripture passages. Dad reminded me on Twitter that I had done that. I have 19 pages of questions and answers that I wrote for the men’s Bible Study I taught and may teach again. If you’re interested in studying it, just email me and I’ll clean it up a bit and send it to you.
Tonight, I need to wrap this up. Tomorrow’s challenges await. As I reflect on my week, I regret not focusing on what I think is important. Such introspections are selfish by nature, however. Doing what is put in front of me is important even if it is not what I want it to be.
As a consolation, I remind myself that this morning before I even spotted the moon or the red sunrise, as I was leaving to head to the office, Gabby rushed downstairs to say goodbye. She stood in the garage bleary-eyed and struggling to wake up. It was 04:30 hours, but she awakened to say goodbye. I told her, “There’s my early girl.” She smiled, and I gave her a hug and kiss before starting the car and heading to work.
Had I not needed to sacrifice my schedule for the needs of the office, Gabby would never have needed to awaken so early just to kiss me goodbye. Nevertheless, waking to the sound of the garage door and rushing down to see me in the morning was important to her.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Easter sermon
Dad preached his Easter message a week early so that it would be ready for radio broadcast on Easter Sunday.
Download as MP3
Download as MP3
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Word of testimony
by Charles E Ramsey
This last reference shows the apostle John was imprisoned at Patmos for preaching about Christ. "To the angel of the church in Laodicea write: These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God's creation." (NIV Rev. 3:14)
From his vision John records:
The above is a sample of 181 times in the New Testament where the root word for martyr is used when speaking of believers testifying or witnessing for Christ. However the most important concept is our attitude when sharing Jesus with the unbeliever. We must be loving and caring. If we are bitter we are in the wrong. We are to be gentle and respectful even if they are holding a gun to our head and daring us to confess Christ. (Applying Peter 3:15)
The world dogmatically opposes Jesus as the only way of salvation. On the other hand the eternality of every one's soul is at stake. Christ is the answer for our sin problem which also includes the gift of eternal life in heaven. We are commanded to tell others about Christ's death and resurrection. It is our salvation and eternal benefit.. Paul's counsel to a believer is "…Be active in sharing your faith so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ." (NIV Philemon 1:6)
Just as a Christian husband and wife can be examples of unity of love that produces the grace of contentment, believers must share their faith with gentleness and respect for the unbelievers. We are created beings responsible to God. Each will make a choice that reaches into eternity.
My wife and I continually express our appreciation for each other. Dr. Walter L Wilson, pastor of Central Bible Church in Kansas City years ago, always spoke of "our Lovely Lord Jesus," and he admonished men to show love and appreciation to their wives. His example of loveliness made it easy for me to express my love to my wife Bonnie. Genuinely testifying of ones love for another leads to a contented pattern for life.
Conversely, I found in scripture where not being appreciated is considered. Jesus said, "If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. (NIV John 15:18-19)
Recently, I received a new book, Foxe Voices of the Martyrs 33 A. D. to Today. The Forward reads:
Conversely, I found in scripture where not being appreciated is considered. Jesus said, "If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. (NIV John 15:18-19)
Recently, I received a new book, Foxe Voices of the Martyrs 33 A. D. to Today. The Forward reads:
I wish I could tell you that persecution is waning, that our brothers and sisters are being treated with fairness and justice. Instead, I must tell you that persecution of Christians is more common in our generation than ever in history. The oft-quoted statistic is true that more people died for their Christian faith in the past century than in all the other centuries of recorded history combined.(David B. Barrett, International Bulletin of Missionary Research, January 2007)
While the gospel message of Christ Jesus brings great peace, joy and love to the believer, it sometimes produces hatred and hostility in unbelievers. Persecution occurs in countries where there is no freedom of religion. We are blessed in the United States to enjoy that freedom. My purpose is not to extol Christian society, but to relate what the Bible says regarding a believer's reaction to hatred.
Persecution of God's people has occurred since the beginning of time, nevertheless, for the purpose of this study I will focus on the persecution that began when Christ was crucified. Persecution has an unusual consequence. Whole communities have embraced Christ because of believers' dying testimonies, triumphantly dying for their faith in Christ.
The apostle Peter instructs persecuted believers:
Persecution of God's people has occurred since the beginning of time, nevertheless, for the purpose of this study I will focus on the persecution that began when Christ was crucified. Persecution has an unusual consequence. Whole communities have embraced Christ because of believers' dying testimonies, triumphantly dying for their faith in Christ.
The apostle Peter instructs persecuted believers:
Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened.
…But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect…
The correct attitude when despised for your faith in Christ is "do not fear… but always witness of your hope with gentleness and respect."
Peter continues to remind his friends:
Peter continues to remind his friends:
It is better, if it is God's will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit.(NIV 1 Peter 3:9, 14-15, 17, 18)
The apostle Paul wrote to Timothy "…Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil men and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. But as for you, continue in what you have learned…" (NIV 2 Timothy 3:12-14)
Testimony is a powerful word in the New Testament. In Greek the root word martur is translated as martyr, testify, testimony or witness. When persecution in the New Testament followed a testimony of Christ, the writer used the word martur... Our word martyr is a transliteration of the Greek word martur. The 1st century persecution was a result of faithful witnessing of Christ's love, but it frequently resulted in martyrdom.
The biblical fact is that Jesus came to die for our sins. His main mission from God His Father was to live a perfect life as a man and reveal the essence of the Father. Therefore He became the necessary sacrifice for mankind's sin. By rising from the dead Jesus Christ proved that eternal life is possible to all who believe. In our country we have divorced the connection of being a martyr and being a witness, Therefore persecution for our faith in Christ is not as evident in America as elsewhere.
Scriptures show the evidences of persecution when the New Testament was written. "You sympathized with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, because you knew that you yourselves had better and lasting possessions." (NIV Hebrews 10:34) "For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him." (NIV Philippians 1:29) Evidence of persecution carries over into the book of Revelation, as a prophecy of the end times. It becomes clear that the greatest persecution is still ahead for believers.
In the Revelation Jesus gave to the apostle John, He used the Greek word martur concerning Himself and His message. (The translation of martur is in bolded in the following references.)
Testimony is a powerful word in the New Testament. In Greek the root word martur is translated as martyr, testify, testimony or witness. When persecution in the New Testament followed a testimony of Christ, the writer used the word martur... Our word martyr is a transliteration of the Greek word martur. The 1st century persecution was a result of faithful witnessing of Christ's love, but it frequently resulted in martyrdom.
The biblical fact is that Jesus came to die for our sins. His main mission from God His Father was to live a perfect life as a man and reveal the essence of the Father. Therefore He became the necessary sacrifice for mankind's sin. By rising from the dead Jesus Christ proved that eternal life is possible to all who believe. In our country we have divorced the connection of being a martyr and being a witness, Therefore persecution for our faith in Christ is not as evident in America as elsewhere.
Scriptures show the evidences of persecution when the New Testament was written. "You sympathized with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, because you knew that you yourselves had better and lasting possessions." (NIV Hebrews 10:34) "For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him." (NIV Philippians 1:29) Evidence of persecution carries over into the book of Revelation, as a prophecy of the end times. It becomes clear that the greatest persecution is still ahead for believers.
In the Revelation Jesus gave to the apostle John, He used the Greek word martur concerning Himself and His message. (The translation of martur is in bolded in the following references.)
(John) "who testifies to everything he saw-- that is, the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ".... "From Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood… I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus, was on the island of Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus."(NIV Revelation 1:2,5,9)
This last reference shows the apostle John was imprisoned at Patmos for preaching about Christ. "To the angel of the church in Laodicea write: These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God's creation." (NIV Rev. 3:14)
From his vision John records:
"I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained…Then each of them was given a white robe, and they were told to wait a little longer, until the number of their fellow servants and brothers who were to be killed as they had been was completed."(NIV Revelation 6:9, 11)
This prophecy gives a picture of the end times.
The practice of hating Christians will not decrease. The problem starts in the beginning when Satan introduced a lie to Adam and Eve. Satan still introduces lies to contradict truth and entrap mankind. At the end of this age Christ provides the way to overcome Satan. "They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death…"
Two different women are pictured in the next quotes. The first refers to the nation that gave birth to Christ. The second woman refers to Satan's counterfeit religion of the last days. First: "Then the dragon was enraged at the woman and went off to make war against the rest of her offspring-- those who obey God's commandments and hold to the testimony of Jesus. (NIV Revelation 12:11.17)
Second: "After this I looked and in heaven the temple, that is, the tabernacle of the Testimony, was opened... I saw that the woman was drunk with the blood of the saints, the blood of those who bore testimony to Jesus…." (NIV Revelation 15:5,6)
John's response to the angel delivering these messages was inappropriate. "At this I fell at his feet to worship him. But he said to me, "Do not do it! I am a fellow servant with you and with your brothers who hold to the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy." (NIV Revelation 19:10) The phrase "testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy" is a clue for interpreting Old Testament prophecy, especially Isaiah 53.
Jesus applies the word martur to the faithful in the last days when He concludes Revelation.
The practice of hating Christians will not decrease. The problem starts in the beginning when Satan introduced a lie to Adam and Eve. Satan still introduces lies to contradict truth and entrap mankind. At the end of this age Christ provides the way to overcome Satan. "They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death…"
Two different women are pictured in the next quotes. The first refers to the nation that gave birth to Christ. The second woman refers to Satan's counterfeit religion of the last days. First: "Then the dragon was enraged at the woman and went off to make war against the rest of her offspring-- those who obey God's commandments and hold to the testimony of Jesus. (NIV Revelation 12:11.17)
Second: "After this I looked and in heaven the temple, that is, the tabernacle of the Testimony, was opened... I saw that the woman was drunk with the blood of the saints, the blood of those who bore testimony to Jesus…." (NIV Revelation 15:5,6)
John's response to the angel delivering these messages was inappropriate. "At this I fell at his feet to worship him. But he said to me, "Do not do it! I am a fellow servant with you and with your brothers who hold to the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy." (NIV Revelation 19:10) The phrase "testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy" is a clue for interpreting Old Testament prophecy, especially Isaiah 53.
Jesus applies the word martur to the faithful in the last days when He concludes Revelation.
…I saw thrones on which were seated those who had been given authority to judge. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded because of their testimony for Jesus and because of the word of God. They had not worshiped the beast or his image and had not received his mark on their foreheads or their hands. They came to life and reigned with Christ a thousand years."
(NIV Revelation 20:4)
I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this testimony for the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star. The Spirit and the bride say, "Come!" And let him who hears say, "Come!" Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life. He who testifies to these things says, "Yes, I am coming soon." Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.(NIV Revelation 22:16-17, 20)
The above is a sample of 181 times in the New Testament where the root word for martyr is used when speaking of believers testifying or witnessing for Christ. However the most important concept is our attitude when sharing Jesus with the unbeliever. We must be loving and caring. If we are bitter we are in the wrong. We are to be gentle and respectful even if they are holding a gun to our head and daring us to confess Christ. (Applying Peter 3:15)
The world dogmatically opposes Jesus as the only way of salvation. On the other hand the eternality of every one's soul is at stake. Christ is the answer for our sin problem which also includes the gift of eternal life in heaven. We are commanded to tell others about Christ's death and resurrection. It is our salvation and eternal benefit.. Paul's counsel to a believer is "…Be active in sharing your faith so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ." (NIV Philemon 1:6)
Just as a Christian husband and wife can be examples of unity of love that produces the grace of contentment, believers must share their faith with gentleness and respect for the unbelievers. We are created beings responsible to God. Each will make a choice that reaches into eternity.
Friday, July 11, 2008
Denying the obvious
by Charles E Ramsey
Humanism is man-centered. All religions that deny a Creator God are based on self-centered humanism. So are self-centered people that believe God cannot get along without them. A Biblical Christian is a follower and learner of Christ, which means they walk behind not ahead of Christ. Believers love and obey Christ. They revere the Bible, God’s Word, as truth expressed by God. True Christians desire their days and lives to be God-centered.
These two world views stand in opposition to each other-- Biblical Christianity versus Humanism. The 1933 Humanistic Manifesto reads: “Religious humanists regard the universe as self-existing and not created,”[1] The 1973 Humanist Manifesto II states: “As non-theists, we begin with humans not God, nature not deity.”[2] In contrast Biblical Christianity is Christ-centered. (John 14:6). The Bible declares “The fool has said in his heart ‘There is no God.’” (Psalm 14:1) Humanists want us to understand that they advocate a “complete break with the past.”[3]. “Humanists still believe that traditional theism, especially faith in the prayer-hearing God, assumed to live and care for persons, and to be able to do something about them, is an unproved and outmoded faith. Salvation… diverting people with false hopes of heaven.”[4] (Emphasis mine) Christ proclaimed “My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.” John 7:16-17
Christian salvation begins by accepting the truth that all are sinners. (Romans 3:23) Biblical Christians acknowledge that Christ paid the price for sin when He took our sins upon Himself on the cross. (1 Peter 2:24). A new life begins with a spiritual birth by the Holy Spirit. (John 3:3). Without the new birth no one will be saved. (Romans 8:9). The believer is assured of eternal life because Christ rose from the dead. Jesus promised to give us eternal life. (John 3:15-16). Salvation is the work of God’s grace, and after trusting Christ we are given understanding that His way is the only way. (Ephesians 2:8; John 14:6; Acts 4:12)
After Alexander the Great conquered the known world, he developed words that distinguished even the tiniest shade of meaning. Greek became the universal language. What was God’s purpose in orchestrating Greek into an exacting world-wide language?. During Christ’s time people world wide understood Greek, making ready for the wide spread of the gospel. A similar purpose exists today for the English language. Non-English speaking people everywhere are eager to take English classes taught by missionaries.
My college Greek professor emphasized the importance of Greek. With only three years of New Testament Greek, I am not a Greek scholar, but the Greek language does help me realize the power of particular words. In this article we will look closely at invitations Jesus made at different times. He invites us to “Come to Him.” Many Greek words with special meanings are translated in English as “come.” Scholars look at the way a word was used in secular writings to help determine their meaning. Just as Jesus Christ is creator of all life He also is the author of all language. I look at Jesus’ use of a particular Greek word to gain a better understanding of it.
The New Testament Greek “Deu/te, Deute” (come or follow) numbered 1205 in Strong’s Concordance is used in the verses selected for our study. Jesus used 1205 because it is an invitation with a promise He offers. This word for “come” is a profound expression of who Jesus is. Being omnipotent Christ has the power to deliver what He promises. The common word for come ”ercomai, ercomai” 2064 does not carry the preciseness of 1205 as illustrated in the following examples.
Matthew 11:28 Come (1205) unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Jesus addressed the question from John the Baptist, “Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another?” Jesus commended John’s ministry and referred to the evidences that would remind John of Isaiah’s prophecies concerning the Messiah. (Isaiah 35:5-6; 42:7; 61:1). John had been faithful. The message he received was reassuring. However, the cities where Christ ministered with the same signs were troubled by religious leaders condemning Christ’s work.
Because these highly educated men were envious and offended, they spoke negatively of Christ’s work. (Matthew 15:12; Mark 15:10). Even Jesus disciples were troubled by the opposition He faced from religious rulers. Jesus, being above all His critics, denounced their unbelief. He announced that He was able to bring peace and rest to all who trusted Him. Jesus predicted that believers would be hated by man-centered unbelievers until the end of time. (Matthew 10:22; John 15:19-21) Believers find strength when they follow Christ’s command to come to Him for rest.
Mark 1:17 Jesus said unto them, Come (1205) ye after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men. After John the Baptist was put in prison Jesus assembled His disciples. At least two of these four fishermen had been disciples of John the Baptist. All of them were aware of Jesus’ ministry. As fishermen they understood that they were being called to be learners and to follow after the Teacher.
The real work was Christ’s. I will make you to become fishers of men. Men of the first century understood that they were giving up something of value to gain something of greater value. Peter later referred to the fact that they had left everything to follow Jesus. (Mark 10:28). >From these four fishermen Jesus choose Peter, James and John, for special experiences because they realized early that Jesus was the Messiah.
Mark 6:31 Come (1205) ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while: for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat. The disciples had just finished a long period of instructions by Jesus. Crowds interrupted with requests for healing. Jesus never turned anyone away. All of this plus the grief over John’s death wore them down. Jesus’ call to get away from the crowd was welcome. His promise of rest was appealing. Sailing across the Sea of Galilee may have afforded brief relaxation. But when they landed they were met by 5000 hungry people. Jesus had compassion on the multitude and told His disciples to feed them. For a short time they wrestled with the idea of how to feed 5000. Then Jesus showed them He could meet the needs of the multitude. The disciples rest came from sharing their joy. Jesus’ prayer, his multiplying the loaves and fishes enough for 5000 was an exhilarating experience. Rest in one’s spirit comes when prayers are answered and knowing God has everything in control. Complete trust in God brings rest.
John 4:29 Come (1205), see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ? This is a different kind of example. In the others we have seen Jesus as the powerful provider. Here Jesus is talking to a sinful woman who has come to the well for water. Jesus engages her in a conversation revealing His omniscience and concern for her salvation. She concludes that Jesus is the Messiah. In her exuberance she left her waterpot and went into the city to proclaim her news. “Come” as used here proclaims Christ as the Great One. When we exalt Christ people see the power of God. She won the whole town with her good news. This Samaritan town became the first to embrace Christ’s message without controversy.
John 11:43 …He cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth (1205). Jesus raised several people from the dead. Lazarus’ situation was unique because Jesus postponed his arrival until Lazarus had been buried four days. Martha and Mary complained that if Jesus had been there Lazarus would not have died. Jesus called Himself the resurrection and life. He also promised if they believed they would see the glory of God. Jesus called to Lazarus “Come forth” and the dead man arose with burial cloth wound around his face and body. “Loose him and let him go.” Even Christ’s enemies, astonished though they were, complained that if he were not killed everyone would believe on Him. (John 11:48, 50) This miracle plus His own resurrection a few days later was the absolute proof of Christ’s deity and omnipotence.
John 21:12 Jesus said unto them, Come (1205) and dine. And none of the disciples durst ask him, Who art thou? knowing that it was the Lord. After Christ’s resurrection His disciples still could not comprehend the truth of Christ’s coming back to life. He had told them to meet Him in Galilee. They obeyed and while they were waiting they went fishing. All night they caught nothing. From the shore Jesus told them to cast their net on the right side of the boat. Usually experienced fishermen would resent the suggestion, but they had mellowed under Jesus teaching and obliged. The unusual catch of 153 large fish surprised them. John said “It is the Lord!” While they pulled their catch to shore Jesus prepared a breakfast of fish and called Come and dine. They didn’t ask where Jesus caught His fish, but realized again that all things are possible with Christ.
To embrace the Humanist world view is to deny the obvious. The proof of the God-man Christ Jesus has been witnessed and faithfully reported in precise language. For mankind to look to other humans for answers to life and death is foolish. Our Father God is the initiator of all life—temporal and eternal. “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” 1 Thessalonians 5:21. Experience the new life in Christ by coming to Him and accepting His promise of eternal life, peace and rest.
[1] Humanist Manifesto I, 1933, the First declaration
[2] Humanist Manifesto II,1973: Religion section, FIRST Proposition, 2nd Paragraph.
[3] Humanist Manifesto I, 1933, the First declaration. 3rd Paragraph.
[4] Humanist Manifesto II, 1973, Introduction, 3rd paragraph.
Humanism is man-centered. All religions that deny a Creator God are based on self-centered humanism. So are self-centered people that believe God cannot get along without them. A Biblical Christian is a follower and learner of Christ, which means they walk behind not ahead of Christ. Believers love and obey Christ. They revere the Bible, God’s Word, as truth expressed by God. True Christians desire their days and lives to be God-centered.
These two world views stand in opposition to each other-- Biblical Christianity versus Humanism. The 1933 Humanistic Manifesto reads: “Religious humanists regard the universe as self-existing and not created,”[1] The 1973 Humanist Manifesto II states: “As non-theists, we begin with humans not God, nature not deity.”[2] In contrast Biblical Christianity is Christ-centered. (John 14:6). The Bible declares “The fool has said in his heart ‘There is no God.’” (Psalm 14:1) Humanists want us to understand that they advocate a “complete break with the past.”[3]. “Humanists still believe that traditional theism, especially faith in the prayer-hearing God, assumed to live and care for persons, and to be able to do something about them, is an unproved and outmoded faith. Salvation… diverting people with false hopes of heaven.”[4] (Emphasis mine) Christ proclaimed “My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.” John 7:16-17
Christian salvation begins by accepting the truth that all are sinners. (Romans 3:23) Biblical Christians acknowledge that Christ paid the price for sin when He took our sins upon Himself on the cross. (1 Peter 2:24). A new life begins with a spiritual birth by the Holy Spirit. (John 3:3). Without the new birth no one will be saved. (Romans 8:9). The believer is assured of eternal life because Christ rose from the dead. Jesus promised to give us eternal life. (John 3:15-16). Salvation is the work of God’s grace, and after trusting Christ we are given understanding that His way is the only way. (Ephesians 2:8; John 14:6; Acts 4:12)
After Alexander the Great conquered the known world, he developed words that distinguished even the tiniest shade of meaning. Greek became the universal language. What was God’s purpose in orchestrating Greek into an exacting world-wide language?. During Christ’s time people world wide understood Greek, making ready for the wide spread of the gospel. A similar purpose exists today for the English language. Non-English speaking people everywhere are eager to take English classes taught by missionaries.
My college Greek professor emphasized the importance of Greek. With only three years of New Testament Greek, I am not a Greek scholar, but the Greek language does help me realize the power of particular words. In this article we will look closely at invitations Jesus made at different times. He invites us to “Come to Him.” Many Greek words with special meanings are translated in English as “come.” Scholars look at the way a word was used in secular writings to help determine their meaning. Just as Jesus Christ is creator of all life He also is the author of all language. I look at Jesus’ use of a particular Greek word to gain a better understanding of it.
The New Testament Greek “Deu/te, Deute” (come or follow) numbered 1205 in Strong’s Concordance is used in the verses selected for our study. Jesus used 1205 because it is an invitation with a promise He offers. This word for “come” is a profound expression of who Jesus is. Being omnipotent Christ has the power to deliver what He promises. The common word for come ”ercomai, ercomai” 2064 does not carry the preciseness of 1205 as illustrated in the following examples.
Matthew 11:28 Come (1205) unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Jesus addressed the question from John the Baptist, “Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another?” Jesus commended John’s ministry and referred to the evidences that would remind John of Isaiah’s prophecies concerning the Messiah. (Isaiah 35:5-6; 42:7; 61:1). John had been faithful. The message he received was reassuring. However, the cities where Christ ministered with the same signs were troubled by religious leaders condemning Christ’s work.
Because these highly educated men were envious and offended, they spoke negatively of Christ’s work. (Matthew 15:12; Mark 15:10). Even Jesus disciples were troubled by the opposition He faced from religious rulers. Jesus, being above all His critics, denounced their unbelief. He announced that He was able to bring peace and rest to all who trusted Him. Jesus predicted that believers would be hated by man-centered unbelievers until the end of time. (Matthew 10:22; John 15:19-21) Believers find strength when they follow Christ’s command to come to Him for rest.
Mark 1:17 Jesus said unto them, Come (1205) ye after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men. After John the Baptist was put in prison Jesus assembled His disciples. At least two of these four fishermen had been disciples of John the Baptist. All of them were aware of Jesus’ ministry. As fishermen they understood that they were being called to be learners and to follow after the Teacher.
The real work was Christ’s. I will make you to become fishers of men. Men of the first century understood that they were giving up something of value to gain something of greater value. Peter later referred to the fact that they had left everything to follow Jesus. (Mark 10:28). >From these four fishermen Jesus choose Peter, James and John, for special experiences because they realized early that Jesus was the Messiah.
Mark 6:31 Come (1205) ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while: for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat. The disciples had just finished a long period of instructions by Jesus. Crowds interrupted with requests for healing. Jesus never turned anyone away. All of this plus the grief over John’s death wore them down. Jesus’ call to get away from the crowd was welcome. His promise of rest was appealing. Sailing across the Sea of Galilee may have afforded brief relaxation. But when they landed they were met by 5000 hungry people. Jesus had compassion on the multitude and told His disciples to feed them. For a short time they wrestled with the idea of how to feed 5000. Then Jesus showed them He could meet the needs of the multitude. The disciples rest came from sharing their joy. Jesus’ prayer, his multiplying the loaves and fishes enough for 5000 was an exhilarating experience. Rest in one’s spirit comes when prayers are answered and knowing God has everything in control. Complete trust in God brings rest.
John 4:29 Come (1205), see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ? This is a different kind of example. In the others we have seen Jesus as the powerful provider. Here Jesus is talking to a sinful woman who has come to the well for water. Jesus engages her in a conversation revealing His omniscience and concern for her salvation. She concludes that Jesus is the Messiah. In her exuberance she left her waterpot and went into the city to proclaim her news. “Come” as used here proclaims Christ as the Great One. When we exalt Christ people see the power of God. She won the whole town with her good news. This Samaritan town became the first to embrace Christ’s message without controversy.
John 11:43 …He cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth (1205). Jesus raised several people from the dead. Lazarus’ situation was unique because Jesus postponed his arrival until Lazarus had been buried four days. Martha and Mary complained that if Jesus had been there Lazarus would not have died. Jesus called Himself the resurrection and life. He also promised if they believed they would see the glory of God. Jesus called to Lazarus “Come forth” and the dead man arose with burial cloth wound around his face and body. “Loose him and let him go.” Even Christ’s enemies, astonished though they were, complained that if he were not killed everyone would believe on Him. (John 11:48, 50) This miracle plus His own resurrection a few days later was the absolute proof of Christ’s deity and omnipotence.
John 21:12 Jesus said unto them, Come (1205) and dine. And none of the disciples durst ask him, Who art thou? knowing that it was the Lord. After Christ’s resurrection His disciples still could not comprehend the truth of Christ’s coming back to life. He had told them to meet Him in Galilee. They obeyed and while they were waiting they went fishing. All night they caught nothing. From the shore Jesus told them to cast their net on the right side of the boat. Usually experienced fishermen would resent the suggestion, but they had mellowed under Jesus teaching and obliged. The unusual catch of 153 large fish surprised them. John said “It is the Lord!” While they pulled their catch to shore Jesus prepared a breakfast of fish and called Come and dine. They didn’t ask where Jesus caught His fish, but realized again that all things are possible with Christ.
To embrace the Humanist world view is to deny the obvious. The proof of the God-man Christ Jesus has been witnessed and faithfully reported in precise language. For mankind to look to other humans for answers to life and death is foolish. Our Father God is the initiator of all life—temporal and eternal. “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” 1 Thessalonians 5:21. Experience the new life in Christ by coming to Him and accepting His promise of eternal life, peace and rest.
[1] Humanist Manifesto I, 1933, the First declaration
[2] Humanist Manifesto II,1973: Religion section, FIRST Proposition, 2nd Paragraph.
[3] Humanist Manifesto I, 1933, the First declaration. 3rd Paragraph.
[4] Humanist Manifesto II, 1973, Introduction, 3rd paragraph.
Monday, July 7, 2008
Significance
by Charles E Ramsey
Midweek and I was mowing around one of our two gooseberry bushes and noticed the berries were ready. But I still had acres of mowing to do. Raining weather had put me behind, and company was coming at week's end.
Nevertheless, the thought of hot gooseberry pie with ice cream changed my sense of urgency. There is nothing like gooseberry pie to celebrate summer. On a whim, I stopped mowing and began picking gooseberries.
My philosophy adopted years ago is to pick all berries I see - both big and small. Some people only pick the biggest berries. I hear their argument. The small berries take longer to pick and stem. But if I don't pick them as I come to them, I'll loose sight of that little berry. I only have one chance, it's now or never. Hours later I still did not have enough berries for pies. The other gooseberry bush was wild, across the creek, surrounded by underbrush and stinging nettles and the grass is still growing.
Another day passed before I stopped mowing. It took a bit of self-convincing before I dared to continue my gooseberry project. Overnight heavy rain had washed out my pole bridge and driftwood obstructed my path to the wild gooseberry bush.
When I determine to accomplish something there is usually a way. I finally stood beside the volunteer bush, after struggling up the muddy creek bank. I was in for a surprise. On every branch large clusters of gooseberries were just waiting to be picked.
Was there a lesson in this? I have to admit when bigger berries became abundant they were my first choice. We had just a few hours to make pies before company arrived.
When our daughter and family left the next day I was ask to pray for my granddaughter, Hannah, who would soon be leaving for five weeks in Australia. I thought about the scripture that suggests when praising God others see Him. (Psalm 22:3). I prayed that Hannah would continually praise Jesus and others would see Him in her praise.
After they left I thought about my gooseberry experience and ask the Lord again what can this mean? After rereading the 1st chapter of John thinking--it's not the big things but insignificant things when given to God that make a big difference. I realized we need to look at daily events and see Jesus' involvement.
See the Lord Jesus Christ at work by Holy Spirit.
John 1:29-34 The next day John sees Jesus coming unto him, and said, Behold the Lamb of God, which takes away the sin of the world. This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man which is preferred before me: for he was before me. And I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water. And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him. And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shall see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizes with the Holy Ghost. And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God.
The first event in John 1:29-34 John the Baptist saw Jesus. John announced Jesus as "the Lamb of God that takes away sin" I wondered 'Did John at this time realize that two of his disciples would leave him and become disciples of Jesus?' John was humble. No jealousy was in his heart Jesus said "Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist: but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he." (Luke 7:28) John's calling was to introduce Jesus. He spoke with confidence because the Holy Spirit had revealed Christ's identity to him. Likewise we can speak with confidence when the Holy Spirit reveals truth to us from His Word.
The truth of the Holy Spirit was a new revelation. It was planted in the minds of these disciples but became a great experience a few years later. Great things start small. With God's direction they become what he intended.
Hear Christ's invitation to come and see.
John 1:35-37 Again the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples; And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he said, Behold the Lamb of God! And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus.
38-39 Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and said unto them, What seek ye? They said unto him, Rabbi, (which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) where dwellest thou? He said unto them, Come and see. They came and saw where he dwelt, and abode with him that day: for it was about the tenth hour.
The next event we see the response of John the Baptist's disciples. They heard John's declaration and left John to follow Jesus. Jesus saw them and heard their question. Jesus responded to their inquiry as to where he lived by inviting them to come and see. We may surmise that he showed them a simple quiet place outdoors where they could retreat and talk. He later revealed to all that he had no place to lay his head. John's disciples were impressed with something other than his dwelling. They abode with him that day. Hearing John's message, following Jesus, and abiding with him, reinforced the truth about Jesus being the Lamb of God and changed their life forever.
Abiding is necessary for each of us. We learn more when we abide in his presence. A decision to follow Christ is only a beginning. There is a need to abide daily in his presence. See the significance of God working in every day events. Our turning over to Christ Jesus daily activities for his blessing glorifies God and the insignificant becomes big.
Feel his presence by opening heart to others.
John 1:40-42 One of the two which heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. He first found his own brother Simon, and said unto him, We have found the Messiah, which is, being interpreted, the Christ. And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said, Thou art Simon the son of Jona: thou shall be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A stone.
43-46 The day following Jesus would go forth into Galilee, and found Philip, and said unto him, Follow me. Now Philip was of Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip finds Nathanael, and said unto him, We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph. And Nathanael said unto him, Can there any good thing come out of Nazareth? Philip said unto him, Come and see.
This selection shows us the deep feelings these disciples had for Jesus. After Andrew left to follow Jesus, he quickly told his older brother. Did Andrew think his main purpose in life was to introduce Simon to Jesus? Did Philip tell Nathaniel about Jesus in order to assemble the group called Twelve Apostles? These understandings came later. This group was formed by God's oversight and they will one day be judges over all the tribes of Israel. (Luke 22:30). These events are big in themselves but they arose out of abiding with Jesus. We seldom see God's purpose in little things until God makes them bigger than we can imagine. Our purpose is to see God at work in little things. Abiding in Christ will make our future brighter.
Simon and Nathanael had challenges for Jesus to overcome. Peter was impulsive, determined, proud and not a quick learner. When Jesus met him he immediately assured Simon of a new name. Nathaniel had a prejudice to overcome. Simon's name was changed by Jesus to Cephas. The meaning of Simon is 'obedient' and Cephas means 'stone.' Peter is the Greek translation of the Hebrew Cephas. His full name Simon son of Jona meant 'obedient dove.' Simon Peter means 'obedient stone.' Stone would be an important word in Jesus' teaching. Matthew 7:24-27 compares accepting Jesus' teaching to a house built on a rock foundation. Simon Peter would become one with a true foundation which is Christ.
Consider the significance of His promises.
John 1:47-51 Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and said of him, Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile! Nathanael said unto him, Whence know you me? Jesus answered and said unto him, Before that Philip called thee, when you was under the fig tree, I saw thee. Nathanael answered and said unto him, Rabbi, thou art the Son of God; thou art the King of Israel. Jesus answered and said unto him, Because I said unto thee, I saw thee under the fig tree, believe thou? thou shall see greater things than these. And he said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Hereafter ye shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man.
The last verses in John 1 shows the significance of Jesus' insightful promises . Nathanael is called an Israelite indeed with no guile. Jesus knew Nathanael's heart. He was a serious man who reverenced the truth handed down by his forefathers. But he believed nothing good could come from Nazareth until he met Jesus. Jesus revealed to him something no one would know except God. Nathanael recognized Jesus as omniscient.
Nathanael's habit was to meditate under his fig tree. When Philip found Nathanael his thoughts were evidently on Jacob's dream and God's promise that all peoples on earth would be blessed through Jacob. (Genesis 28:10-22). When Jesus revealed that he saw him under the fig tree, Nathanael exclaimed "You are the Son of God; You are the King of Israel." Jesus assured Nathanael that he would see and understand greater things than Jacob's dream of angels ascending and descending. Jesus implied that Jacob's vision was about angels ascending and descending upon the Son of Man of whom Jacob was a type.
This passage is full of little things that had great significance when God blessed them. Did I learn any thing in my week that included gooseberry picking? I'm sure to learn more, but I had to remember that God is able to do abundantly above all that I ask or think. He also uses our experiences to help us think of Him as the source of all good.
It is easy to think of myself more highly than I ought to think. I needed to see John the Baptist's humility of carrying out his calling. He knew that Jesus must increase and he must decrease. But why gooseberries? I realized I prayed more while picking gooseberries. I also listened more. It was like I was abiding in his presence, and that was what I needed. I needed to hear the message for myself about the significance of little events.
Midweek and I was mowing around one of our two gooseberry bushes and noticed the berries were ready. But I still had acres of mowing to do. Raining weather had put me behind, and company was coming at week's end.
Nevertheless, the thought of hot gooseberry pie with ice cream changed my sense of urgency. There is nothing like gooseberry pie to celebrate summer. On a whim, I stopped mowing and began picking gooseberries.
My philosophy adopted years ago is to pick all berries I see - both big and small. Some people only pick the biggest berries. I hear their argument. The small berries take longer to pick and stem. But if I don't pick them as I come to them, I'll loose sight of that little berry. I only have one chance, it's now or never. Hours later I still did not have enough berries for pies. The other gooseberry bush was wild, across the creek, surrounded by underbrush and stinging nettles and the grass is still growing.
Another day passed before I stopped mowing. It took a bit of self-convincing before I dared to continue my gooseberry project. Overnight heavy rain had washed out my pole bridge and driftwood obstructed my path to the wild gooseberry bush.
When I determine to accomplish something there is usually a way. I finally stood beside the volunteer bush, after struggling up the muddy creek bank. I was in for a surprise. On every branch large clusters of gooseberries were just waiting to be picked.
Was there a lesson in this? I have to admit when bigger berries became abundant they were my first choice. We had just a few hours to make pies before company arrived.
When our daughter and family left the next day I was ask to pray for my granddaughter, Hannah, who would soon be leaving for five weeks in Australia. I thought about the scripture that suggests when praising God others see Him. (Psalm 22:3). I prayed that Hannah would continually praise Jesus and others would see Him in her praise.
After they left I thought about my gooseberry experience and ask the Lord again what can this mean? After rereading the 1st chapter of John thinking--it's not the big things but insignificant things when given to God that make a big difference. I realized we need to look at daily events and see Jesus' involvement.
See the Lord Jesus Christ at work by Holy Spirit.
John 1:29-34 The next day John sees Jesus coming unto him, and said, Behold the Lamb of God, which takes away the sin of the world. This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man which is preferred before me: for he was before me. And I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water. And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him. And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shall see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizes with the Holy Ghost. And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God.
The first event in John 1:29-34 John the Baptist saw Jesus. John announced Jesus as "the Lamb of God that takes away sin" I wondered 'Did John at this time realize that two of his disciples would leave him and become disciples of Jesus?' John was humble. No jealousy was in his heart Jesus said "Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist: but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he." (Luke 7:28) John's calling was to introduce Jesus. He spoke with confidence because the Holy Spirit had revealed Christ's identity to him. Likewise we can speak with confidence when the Holy Spirit reveals truth to us from His Word.
The truth of the Holy Spirit was a new revelation. It was planted in the minds of these disciples but became a great experience a few years later. Great things start small. With God's direction they become what he intended.
Hear Christ's invitation to come and see.
John 1:35-37 Again the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples; And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he said, Behold the Lamb of God! And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus.
38-39 Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and said unto them, What seek ye? They said unto him, Rabbi, (which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) where dwellest thou? He said unto them, Come and see. They came and saw where he dwelt, and abode with him that day: for it was about the tenth hour.
The next event we see the response of John the Baptist's disciples. They heard John's declaration and left John to follow Jesus. Jesus saw them and heard their question. Jesus responded to their inquiry as to where he lived by inviting them to come and see. We may surmise that he showed them a simple quiet place outdoors where they could retreat and talk. He later revealed to all that he had no place to lay his head. John's disciples were impressed with something other than his dwelling. They abode with him that day. Hearing John's message, following Jesus, and abiding with him, reinforced the truth about Jesus being the Lamb of God and changed their life forever.
Abiding is necessary for each of us. We learn more when we abide in his presence. A decision to follow Christ is only a beginning. There is a need to abide daily in his presence. See the significance of God working in every day events. Our turning over to Christ Jesus daily activities for his blessing glorifies God and the insignificant becomes big.
Feel his presence by opening heart to others.
John 1:40-42 One of the two which heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother. He first found his own brother Simon, and said unto him, We have found the Messiah, which is, being interpreted, the Christ. And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said, Thou art Simon the son of Jona: thou shall be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A stone.
43-46 The day following Jesus would go forth into Galilee, and found Philip, and said unto him, Follow me. Now Philip was of Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip finds Nathanael, and said unto him, We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph. And Nathanael said unto him, Can there any good thing come out of Nazareth? Philip said unto him, Come and see.
This selection shows us the deep feelings these disciples had for Jesus. After Andrew left to follow Jesus, he quickly told his older brother. Did Andrew think his main purpose in life was to introduce Simon to Jesus? Did Philip tell Nathaniel about Jesus in order to assemble the group called Twelve Apostles? These understandings came later. This group was formed by God's oversight and they will one day be judges over all the tribes of Israel. (Luke 22:30). These events are big in themselves but they arose out of abiding with Jesus. We seldom see God's purpose in little things until God makes them bigger than we can imagine. Our purpose is to see God at work in little things. Abiding in Christ will make our future brighter.
Simon and Nathanael had challenges for Jesus to overcome. Peter was impulsive, determined, proud and not a quick learner. When Jesus met him he immediately assured Simon of a new name. Nathaniel had a prejudice to overcome. Simon's name was changed by Jesus to Cephas. The meaning of Simon is 'obedient' and Cephas means 'stone.' Peter is the Greek translation of the Hebrew Cephas. His full name Simon son of Jona meant 'obedient dove.' Simon Peter means 'obedient stone.' Stone would be an important word in Jesus' teaching. Matthew 7:24-27 compares accepting Jesus' teaching to a house built on a rock foundation. Simon Peter would become one with a true foundation which is Christ.
Consider the significance of His promises.
John 1:47-51 Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and said of him, Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile! Nathanael said unto him, Whence know you me? Jesus answered and said unto him, Before that Philip called thee, when you was under the fig tree, I saw thee. Nathanael answered and said unto him, Rabbi, thou art the Son of God; thou art the King of Israel. Jesus answered and said unto him, Because I said unto thee, I saw thee under the fig tree, believe thou? thou shall see greater things than these. And he said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Hereafter ye shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man.
The last verses in John 1 shows the significance of Jesus' insightful promises . Nathanael is called an Israelite indeed with no guile. Jesus knew Nathanael's heart. He was a serious man who reverenced the truth handed down by his forefathers. But he believed nothing good could come from Nazareth until he met Jesus. Jesus revealed to him something no one would know except God. Nathanael recognized Jesus as omniscient.
Nathanael's habit was to meditate under his fig tree. When Philip found Nathanael his thoughts were evidently on Jacob's dream and God's promise that all peoples on earth would be blessed through Jacob. (Genesis 28:10-22). When Jesus revealed that he saw him under the fig tree, Nathanael exclaimed "You are the Son of God; You are the King of Israel." Jesus assured Nathanael that he would see and understand greater things than Jacob's dream of angels ascending and descending. Jesus implied that Jacob's vision was about angels ascending and descending upon the Son of Man of whom Jacob was a type.
This passage is full of little things that had great significance when God blessed them. Did I learn any thing in my week that included gooseberry picking? I'm sure to learn more, but I had to remember that God is able to do abundantly above all that I ask or think. He also uses our experiences to help us think of Him as the source of all good.
It is easy to think of myself more highly than I ought to think. I needed to see John the Baptist's humility of carrying out his calling. He knew that Jesus must increase and he must decrease. But why gooseberries? I realized I prayed more while picking gooseberries. I also listened more. It was like I was abiding in his presence, and that was what I needed. I needed to hear the message for myself about the significance of little events.
Friday, June 27, 2008
The source of life
Does history mean "His-story" to you? God's revelation occurs in history. The Old Testament starts "In the beginning God created . . ." The New Testament begins with the genealogy of Jesus, the Son of God. John 1 begins "In the beginning was the Word . . ."
Worldly religions are based, not on historical facts, but on mystical thought, ethical and philosophical ideas, or the sayings of one man. "God created" is the foundation of Christianity.
Prophecies of future events given to each generation are proof of the Bible's authenticity. No man-made religion can compare to the 100% accuracy of Bible prophecies. Historical events once questioned are proven true by archeological finds.
At a mainline denominational college in 1951, my Bible teacher ridiculed the historical accounts in the Bible saying they are fictitious. He cited the Hittites as a ridiculous fabrication. He said there were no such people. Since that statement evidence from "ample cuneiform inscriptions"[1] has unveiled the Hittite language. Books are now written about the Hittite civilization.
"One star is different from another in glory." 1 Corinthians 15:41 was once thought to be a misstatement. Now it is confirmed that each star is in fact different. No two are alike.
God said in Genesis 22:17 "I will multiply your seed as the stars of the heaven and as the sand which is upon the sea shore." Men discounted this statement of Scripture as an exaggeration. Astronomers now estimate a great number, a hundred-million-billion-billion, (10 to the 26th power)[2] equaling the number of grains of sand on the earth. These are potent evidences of a true revelation from God.
God admonishes "Remember the former things of old: for I am God and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me. Declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure:" Isaiah 46:9-10
In our day knowledge is expanding that confirms God's word. Many biblical illustrations like these have been verified. God's word is accurate. It speaks to our time, and gives understanding of God.
Some scientists today declare themselves atheists. However, thousands of scientists affirm the Bible to be scientifically correct. Large numbers of scientists in history claimed the Bible led them to discover or confirm scientific facts. For example these scientists gave credit to the Bible: Isaac Newton and the Law of Gravity, Gregory Mendel in Genetics, and Lord Kelvin with the Absolute Temperature Scale. Bible accuracy upheld in the scientific realm helps us realize that God speaks the truth. He reveals Himself and his Son, our Savior, in his creation and in his word. Unbelievers may denounce faith in God, but God's Word deserves our confidence in its validity. It is impossible for God to lie.
The fourth gospel introduces the history of Jesus at the beginning of creation. Four words WORD, GOD, LIFE and LIGHT are used to identify who Jesus is.
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men." John 1:1-4
All life springs forth from Jesus Christ: plant life, animal and human life. He was also LIGHT called "the true LIGHT, which lights every man that comes into the world." John 1:9 This confirms that mankind is made in the image of God as it's written in Genesis. LIFE and LIGHT are the two great forms of energy in the universe.
God is life and he is eternal. Life as we know it in creation is an expression of an eternal quality. This can be further explored in John's gospel and in passages like Hebrews 8:5 which shows God made on earth physical copies of heavenly realities.
Jesus Christ was and is the source of life for every one. He breathed the breath of life into Adam and "he became a living soul." At creation he said "Let there be light and there was light." Whenever God appeared to man in the Old Testament Scriptures it was a pre-incarnation of Jesus Christ. He appeared to Abraham. Before that he walked in the Garden of Eden with Adam and Eve.
Light is contrasted with darkness, Light dispels darkness. Darkness cannot overcome light. A story is told by a relative that when Merry was a little girl she followed her mother to the cellar door, when her mother opened the cellar door Merry exclaimed, "Oh, that's where the dark goes when the sun comes up!" Light had to be seen in the world through Jesus for men to understand the difference between spiritual light and darkness,
John identifies the lost condition of man who could not recognize or follow their creator: "the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. He came unto his own, and his own received him not." John 1:10 God gives the reason men did not receive Christ ". . . men loved darkness rather than light because their deeds were evil." In John 3:19
By God's mercy he sent Christ to pay our sin debt. Salvation in Jesus Christ saves us from darkness and gives us a new birth into his kingdom of light.
1 Peter 2:9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.
Colossians 1:13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:
Today "His-story" is still being played out in contemporary history. It is of eternal consequence that we recognize him and accept his will.
[1] A Bloomsbury Reference Book, Encarta World English Dictionary, St. Martin's Press, 1999
[2] Morris, Henry M. Science and the Bible, page 12, Moody Press 1986
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Discern don't condemn
by Charles E Ramsey
Jesus Christ was and is God and man. As the only begotten Son and the express image of the Father, he reveals the Father. Hebrews 1:3. The Father is pleased with the Son, and the Son glorifies the Father. Jesus' life, death and resurrection proves the love of God for lost humanity. But a relationship is necessary. Studying God's word is a primary way to get acquainted and become a lover of God. We discern God's ways through his word. Discernment is defined as to discriminate, and discrimination poses the power to distinguish the excellent and the true.
Jesus "was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin." Hebrews 4:15. The understanding of how God could become man is given by Paul. "Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross." Philippians 2:6-8. From scripture we discern that the fountain of man's thought is corrupt and limited. Whereas the God-man unifies an eternal well of absolute truth free from error.
In my first article we investigated Christ's humility. Now we look at the power Jesus has to give victory over one particular human weakness--self justification. This weakness first occurred when Adam refused to acknowledge sin. He justified himself by blaming God, his Creator, and accusing Eve, his wife. Genesis 3:12. Jesus trained his disciples to avoid this sin by not focusing on man. "Judge not, and you shall not be judged: condemn not, and you shall not be condemned: forgive, and you shall be forgiven:" Luke 6:37. Following his example and obeying will result in a happy and spiritually mature life. John 13:15-17.
Two avenues are open toward discernment of truth. "For judgment I am come into this world, that they which 'see not' might see; and that they which 'see' might be made blind." John 9:39. Those who are helped are "they which see not." Recognizing weakness they accept the fact that they sin. Others refuse to admit depravity, being blind to this truth. To be born again spiritually everyone needs the Savior and the Holy Spirit. In the spiritually mature the believer's will becomes submissive to Christ's will. Discernment through the avenue of blind self-will comes too late.
Jesus made the word of God the absolute authority for discernment, both now and when we meet him. "If any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world. He that rejects me, and receives not my words, has one that judges him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day." John 12:47-48..
Jesus' manner of helping us differs depending if we are self-righteousness or humble. His help is available to all, even to those who are proud or those on the lowest rung on the social ladder. He confronts all with their sin. His help is usually rejected by the proud. However, those confessing a need receive his grace. Christ's work in us is to make helpers for others. To be a leader one must first have his personal life in order. Spiritual discernment is recognizing other's faults are universal with all mankind. When one can share the forgiveness God gives, he is equipped to help others. Discernment then first deals with the problem within the teacher, so he can help another obtain victory. However, the rejecter is destined to learn discernment when he is judged as he judged.
The apostle Paul wrote to a religious audience that they have no excuse to pass judgment on anyone. "Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whosoever you are that judges for wherein you judge another, you condemn yourself; for you that judge do the same things." Romans 2:1. Those who condemn another do so because they are unrepentant of the same kind of sin. This could be paraphrased: 'As you judge another so you are.' When people argued with Paul his reply was, "let God be true but every man a liar." Romans 3:4.
Jesus' instruction regarding offences required confronting the offender alone. Matthew 18:15. When a Christian brother becomes ensnared in blatant sin and refuses to repent, he becomes a stumbling block. At that point Paul counsels: don't mix with that evil one. Without condemning, separation can bring reconciliation. 1 Corinthians 5:11
We become the stumbling block if we practice condemning others. Paul emphasizes the better way. "Let us not therefore judge one another anymore: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumbling block or an occasion to fall in his brother's way." Romans 14:13.
Understanding the power of God's word to correct behavior makes a Christian discerning. Then he is on the road to a blessed life. The writer to Hebrews describes this: "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword . . . and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." Hebrews 4:12. Solomon concurs: "Whoso despises the word shall be destroyed: but he that fears the commandment shall be rewarded." Proverbs 13:13
All scripture quotes are from the King James Version.
Jesus Christ was and is God and man. As the only begotten Son and the express image of the Father, he reveals the Father. Hebrews 1:3. The Father is pleased with the Son, and the Son glorifies the Father. Jesus' life, death and resurrection proves the love of God for lost humanity. But a relationship is necessary. Studying God's word is a primary way to get acquainted and become a lover of God. We discern God's ways through his word. Discernment is defined as to discriminate, and discrimination poses the power to distinguish the excellent and the true.
Jesus "was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin." Hebrews 4:15. The understanding of how God could become man is given by Paul. "Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross." Philippians 2:6-8. From scripture we discern that the fountain of man's thought is corrupt and limited. Whereas the God-man unifies an eternal well of absolute truth free from error.
In my first article we investigated Christ's humility. Now we look at the power Jesus has to give victory over one particular human weakness--self justification. This weakness first occurred when Adam refused to acknowledge sin. He justified himself by blaming God, his Creator, and accusing Eve, his wife. Genesis 3:12. Jesus trained his disciples to avoid this sin by not focusing on man. "Judge not, and you shall not be judged: condemn not, and you shall not be condemned: forgive, and you shall be forgiven:" Luke 6:37. Following his example and obeying will result in a happy and spiritually mature life. John 13:15-17.
Two avenues are open toward discernment of truth. "For judgment I am come into this world, that they which 'see not' might see; and that they which 'see' might be made blind." John 9:39. Those who are helped are "they which see not." Recognizing weakness they accept the fact that they sin. Others refuse to admit depravity, being blind to this truth. To be born again spiritually everyone needs the Savior and the Holy Spirit. In the spiritually mature the believer's will becomes submissive to Christ's will. Discernment through the avenue of blind self-will comes too late.
Jesus made the word of God the absolute authority for discernment, both now and when we meet him. "If any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world. He that rejects me, and receives not my words, has one that judges him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day." John 12:47-48..
Jesus' manner of helping us differs depending if we are self-righteousness or humble. His help is available to all, even to those who are proud or those on the lowest rung on the social ladder. He confronts all with their sin. His help is usually rejected by the proud. However, those confessing a need receive his grace. Christ's work in us is to make helpers for others. To be a leader one must first have his personal life in order. Spiritual discernment is recognizing other's faults are universal with all mankind. When one can share the forgiveness God gives, he is equipped to help others. Discernment then first deals with the problem within the teacher, so he can help another obtain victory. However, the rejecter is destined to learn discernment when he is judged as he judged.
The apostle Paul wrote to a religious audience that they have no excuse to pass judgment on anyone. "Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whosoever you are that judges for wherein you judge another, you condemn yourself; for you that judge do the same things." Romans 2:1. Those who condemn another do so because they are unrepentant of the same kind of sin. This could be paraphrased: 'As you judge another so you are.' When people argued with Paul his reply was, "let God be true but every man a liar." Romans 3:4.
Jesus' instruction regarding offences required confronting the offender alone. Matthew 18:15. When a Christian brother becomes ensnared in blatant sin and refuses to repent, he becomes a stumbling block. At that point Paul counsels: don't mix with that evil one. Without condemning, separation can bring reconciliation. 1 Corinthians 5:11
We become the stumbling block if we practice condemning others. Paul emphasizes the better way. "Let us not therefore judge one another anymore: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumbling block or an occasion to fall in his brother's way." Romans 14:13.
Understanding the power of God's word to correct behavior makes a Christian discerning. Then he is on the road to a blessed life. The writer to Hebrews describes this: "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword . . . and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." Hebrews 4:12. Solomon concurs: "Whoso despises the word shall be destroyed: but he that fears the commandment shall be rewarded." Proverbs 13:13
All scripture quotes are from the King James Version.
Monday, June 9, 2008
The way up is down
by Charles E. Ramsey [1]
Jesus is the God-source of true wisdom, and therefore our most authoritative teacher.
He is the greatest teacher because He is the perfect human example of scriptural teachings. However, it takes more than exposure to words and a good example to change mankind's prideful attitude. The Holy Spirit empowers Christ's work and word in individual hearts. Jesus promised; "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you..." (NIV Acts 1:8)
Humility surfaced as an attribute foremost in Jesus' life and teaching. The Old Testament exposed humility as godliness, but Jesus employed it. (NIV Isaiah 57:15) The opposite of humility is pride, which caused the fall of Satan and mankind. Humility is described as "seeking God's face, praying, and turning from wickedness." (2 Chronicles 7:14). Most scripture passages refer to humility as "lowly," or "to be brought into subjection." One word translated humble describes "a man whose face is on the ground." How can this attitude become the means of greatest exultation? Simply, it's God's way, and in the end the only way that succeeds.
Jesus' whole earthly history was a display of humility.
Jesus is the God-source of true wisdom, and therefore our most authoritative teacher.
He is the greatest teacher because He is the perfect human example of scriptural teachings. However, it takes more than exposure to words and a good example to change mankind's prideful attitude. The Holy Spirit empowers Christ's work and word in individual hearts. Jesus promised; "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you..." (NIV Acts 1:8)
Humility surfaced as an attribute foremost in Jesus' life and teaching. The Old Testament exposed humility as godliness, but Jesus employed it. (NIV Isaiah 57:15) The opposite of humility is pride, which caused the fall of Satan and mankind. Humility is described as "seeking God's face, praying, and turning from wickedness." (2 Chronicles 7:14). Most scripture passages refer to humility as "lowly," or "to be brought into subjection." One word translated humble describes "a man whose face is on the ground." How can this attitude become the means of greatest exultation? Simply, it's God's way, and in the end the only way that succeeds.
Jesus' whole earthly history was a display of humility.
- Born in a manger Luke 2:7
- He never owned property. Matthew 8:20
- He came as a servant. Matthew 12:18
- He died a humiliating death as a falsely accused criminal. Matthew 27:18-26
Before Jesus' death and on His last trip to Jerusalem, Jesus reaffirmed the need of humility to His disciples. (Matthew 18:4). At the start of the Passion week Jesus revealed the Pharisees' lack of humility. (Matthew 23:12). Humility also became a difficult lesson for His disciples to grasp.
Jesus dealt with the problem of pride. At the Last Supper Jesus washed His disciple's feet. Peter objected. Jesus came to Simon Peter, who said to him, "Lord, are you going to wash my feet?" (NIV John 13:6). Jesus took time to explain the situation but required a change in Peter's attitude. Peter quickly repented.
Jesus identified the overall purpose of His ministry when He said: "When I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw all men to myself." (John 12:32). In this verse Jesus refers to His death, plus the glory accompanying His resurrection. Jesus Christ became forever the foremost example of scriptural teaching that humility brings exultation.
After His crucifixion Jesus' humility was part of a discussion between Philip and an Ethiopian. They were reading from Isaiah 53 which foretold Christ death. It read: "In his humiliation he was deprived of justice. Who can speak of his descendants? For his life was taken from the earth." (Acts 8:33 quoted from Isaiah 53).
This essence of Christ's humility continued to be appreciated in the Apostles writings. Paul summarizes the humility of Jesus ministry; "For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: 'The insults of those who insult you (God) have fallen on me," (Romans 15:3) and as to His exultation, "at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth," (Philippians 2:10).
Jesus' ministry will continue forever as an example encompassing revealed wisdom from the beginning of creation. He is the master teacher of illustration by word and example. Observe this phenomenon when reading the New Testament. Submit to its truth as applied by the Holy Spirit, and enjoy the deepest longings for relevance satisfied. (James 4:6, 10; 1 Peter 5:5,6)
Jesus dealt with the problem of pride. At the Last Supper Jesus washed His disciple's feet. Peter objected. Jesus came to Simon Peter, who said to him, "Lord, are you going to wash my feet?" (NIV John 13:6). Jesus took time to explain the situation but required a change in Peter's attitude. Peter quickly repented.
Jesus identified the overall purpose of His ministry when He said: "When I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw all men to myself." (John 12:32). In this verse Jesus refers to His death, plus the glory accompanying His resurrection. Jesus Christ became forever the foremost example of scriptural teaching that humility brings exultation.
After His crucifixion Jesus' humility was part of a discussion between Philip and an Ethiopian. They were reading from Isaiah 53 which foretold Christ death. It read: "In his humiliation he was deprived of justice. Who can speak of his descendants? For his life was taken from the earth." (Acts 8:33 quoted from Isaiah 53).
This essence of Christ's humility continued to be appreciated in the Apostles writings. Paul summarizes the humility of Jesus ministry; "For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: 'The insults of those who insult you (God) have fallen on me," (Romans 15:3) and as to His exultation, "at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth," (Philippians 2:10).
Jesus' ministry will continue forever as an example encompassing revealed wisdom from the beginning of creation. He is the master teacher of illustration by word and example. Observe this phenomenon when reading the New Testament. Submit to its truth as applied by the Holy Spirit, and enjoy the deepest longings for relevance satisfied. (James 4:6, 10; 1 Peter 5:5,6)
[1] Charles Ramsey is the paternal grandfather of Cara, Daniel, Claire, and Gabrielle. He is the pastor of Mt Pleasant Baptist Church, Gilman City, Missouri, and he is referred to simply as "Dad" in posts "Ora et labora" and "Ezra seven fifteen."
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