I do not know if you are aware of this, but a few weeks ago DTS professor, Dr. Daniel Wallace debated UNC professor, Dr. Bart Ehrman on the campus of Southern Methodist University. The topic of the debate was, Can We Trust the Text of the New Testament? Here is a link to Dr. Wallace's faculty page: http://www.dts.edu/about/faculty/dwallace/. Here is a link to Dr. Ehrman's page: http://www.bartdehrman.com/biography.htm.
For those who know Dr. Wallace, he does not enjoy speaking in front of people... in fact he he sweats just thinking about teaching one of his classes! This latest debate with Dr. Ehrman happened to be only his fourth debate ever! In contrast, Dr. Ehrman conducts numerous debates every year and is a very polished communicator. Unfortunately, I was not able to attend the debate (work!), but I was able to hear Dr. Wallace's thoughts on the debate. There are two thoughts in particular that I would like to share with you.
First, when debating individuals, our concern should be for the individual. Dr. Ehrman's issue with the trustworthiness New Testament is not a lack of evidence, but his is with his own struggles with morality. This should lead us to love him and pray for him.
The most profound thing that Dr. Wallace said was in relation to his own thoughts and feelings leading up to the debate. He was obviously nervous about the thought of debating such a prominent scholar in front of a couple thousand of people. This nervousness was only compounded when he considered how just a few weeks earlier, Dr. Ehrman had virtually destroyed another prominent Christian in a debate over the reliability of the Bible. Dr. Wallace was concerned about whether or not he would be able to avoid having his own name destroyed in the upcoming debate. About a half-hour before the debate, the realization hit him that even if he was defeated in the debate, God would take care of His own Name and Word. What a wondrous peace this thought affords, that God is jealous of His own name and glory. Indeed, may I set my concern and affections on the advancement of the glory of God, His name, and His Word.
Walk with Him today,
JE
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Our High Priest
Hebrews 9:6-7, 11 tells us that, "When these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God. But into the second went the high priest alone once every year, not without blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the people. But Christ being come a high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made wit hands, that is to say, not of this building. Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by His own blood He entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us."
I want to focus on the fact that the high priest was required to enter into the Holy of Hollies twice: the first time to shed blood on behalf of his own sins, and then again on behalf of the sins of the people. Christ Jesus, with His death, shed His own blood in the Holy Place once on behalf of the sins of the people... for He had no sin to atone for Himself.
This beautiful picture of Christ's sacrifice further demonstrates the need to be a good student of the Old Testament in order to be a good student of the New Testament.
Serve God well today, as redeemed by Christ's blood, and in the power of the Holy Spirit.
- JE
I want to focus on the fact that the high priest was required to enter into the Holy of Hollies twice: the first time to shed blood on behalf of his own sins, and then again on behalf of the sins of the people. Christ Jesus, with His death, shed His own blood in the Holy Place once on behalf of the sins of the people... for He had no sin to atone for Himself.
This beautiful picture of Christ's sacrifice further demonstrates the need to be a good student of the Old Testament in order to be a good student of the New Testament.
Serve God well today, as redeemed by Christ's blood, and in the power of the Holy Spirit.
- JE
Sunday, September 18, 2011
You may have noticed that I have not written in a while... I apologize. I guess I just didn't feel like writing, and I didn't force myself to do so. I am now at Dallas Theological Seminary which is a wonderful place full of individuals who desire to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ as revealed in the Bible. The lectures that I attend each day are so deep and intense that I find myself having to "recover" from them. It is my desire to use this blog as a way for me to reflect on some of the things that I am exposed to as I continue in my studies.
You will also notice some new features on both the right and left hand sides of the page. On the right side, I have listed a few websites that I frequent. Though I won't agree or support everything on these sites, I do recommend that you check them out for your own benefit. On the left-hand side, there is a list of books that I am reading and then a movie that I have either watched recently, or that I recommend. Once again, please use discernment... I do not agree with everything that I read or watch (and there may be cases of a film or book not being age appropriate).
God bless you, and serve Him well today!
- JE
You will also notice some new features on both the right and left hand sides of the page. On the right side, I have listed a few websites that I frequent. Though I won't agree or support everything on these sites, I do recommend that you check them out for your own benefit. On the left-hand side, there is a list of books that I am reading and then a movie that I have either watched recently, or that I recommend. Once again, please use discernment... I do not agree with everything that I read or watch (and there may be cases of a film or book not being age appropriate).
God bless you, and serve Him well today!
- JE
Monday, May 30, 2011
Memorial Day
Today is a beautifully warm Memorial Day in Pennsylvania. This morning the sun glanced upon our American flag as it hung limply in the still air. It was a fitting reminder to spend a day in remembrance of my forefathers who have sacrificed their lives to protect me.
During the earlier stages of the Iraq War, then- Secretary of State Colin Powell made a memorable response to a challenge issued by the Bishop of Canterbury. The Bishop, being something of a "smart alec," said: "What is this, another case of American land-grabbing?" Powell responded by saying: "History is full of American men and women who have fought wars all over the world. But all we have asked for in return is enough land to bury our dead."
Setting aside the accuracy or inaccuracy of Powell's remark, it remains a solemn reminder of the sacrifices of the American Veteran. I would like to consider with thankfulness the sacrifices of my great-uncle Bud, who is buried at the war memorial in Luxemburg. In addition, I am thankful for the service of my Grampie, Papa, my uncles Stanton, Wendall, Jerry, and Mike, and my cousin David. Finally, thank you to my brother, Samuel, and our friends, Will, Hayden, and Jeremy for their willingness to enter and train in our armed forces in preparation for the sacrifices that you will give for the sake of our country.
- JE
During the earlier stages of the Iraq War, then- Secretary of State Colin Powell made a memorable response to a challenge issued by the Bishop of Canterbury. The Bishop, being something of a "smart alec," said: "What is this, another case of American land-grabbing?" Powell responded by saying: "History is full of American men and women who have fought wars all over the world. But all we have asked for in return is enough land to bury our dead."
Setting aside the accuracy or inaccuracy of Powell's remark, it remains a solemn reminder of the sacrifices of the American Veteran. I would like to consider with thankfulness the sacrifices of my great-uncle Bud, who is buried at the war memorial in Luxemburg. In addition, I am thankful for the service of my Grampie, Papa, my uncles Stanton, Wendall, Jerry, and Mike, and my cousin David. Finally, thank you to my brother, Samuel, and our friends, Will, Hayden, and Jeremy for their willingness to enter and train in our armed forces in preparation for the sacrifices that you will give for the sake of our country.
- JE
Friday, April 1, 2011
Humble Service
Save me from the error of judging a church by its size, its popularity or the amount of its yearly offering. Help me to remember that I am a prophet - not a promoter, not a religious manager, but a prophet. Let me never become a slave to crowds. Heal my soul of carnal ambitions and deliver me from the itch for publicity. Save me from bondage to things. Let me not waste my days puttering around the house. Lay Thy terror upon me, O God, and drive me to the place of prayer where I may wrestle with principalities and powers and the rulers of the darkness of this world. Deliver me from overeating and sleeping. Teach me self- discipline that I may be a good soldier of Jesus Christ...
And now, O Lord of heaven and earth, I consecrate my remaining days to Thee; let them be many or few, as Thou wilt. Let me stand before the great, or minister to the poor and lowly; that choice is not mine, and I would not influence it if I could. I am Thy servant to do Thy will, and that will is sweeter to me than position or riches or fame, and I choose it above all things on earth or in heaven.
A.W. Tozer
- JE
And now, O Lord of heaven and earth, I consecrate my remaining days to Thee; let them be many or few, as Thou wilt. Let me stand before the great, or minister to the poor and lowly; that choice is not mine, and I would not influence it if I could. I am Thy servant to do Thy will, and that will is sweeter to me than position or riches or fame, and I choose it above all things on earth or in heaven.
A.W. Tozer
- JE
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Islamic Liberalism?
http://www.cbn.com/cbnnews/world/2011/March/Iranian-Regime-Video-Says-Mahdi-is-Near-/
- JE
- JE
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Perspective
In the days when an ice cream sundae cost much less,
a 10-year-old boy entered a hotel coffee shop and
sat at a table. A waitress put a glass of water in
front of him.
"How much is an ice cream sundae?" he asked.
"Fifty cents," replied the waitress.
The little boy pulled his hand out of his pocket and
studied the coins in it.
"Well, how much is a plain dish of ice cream?" he inquired.
By now more people were waiting for a table and the
waitress was growing impatient.
"Thirty-five cents," she brusquely replied.
The little boy again counted his coins..
"I'll have the plain ice cream," he said.
The waitress brought the ice cream, put the bill on
the table and walked away The boy finished the ice
cream, paid the cashier and left.. When the waitress
came back, she began to cry as she wiped down the
table. There, placed neatly beside the empty dish,
were two nickels and five pennies..
You see, he couldn't have the sundae, because he had
to have enough left to leave her a tip.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Love Divine, All Loves Excelling
Love divine, all loves excelling,
Joy of heaven to earth come down;
Fix in us thy humble dwelling;
All thy faithful mercies crown!
Jesus, Thou art all compassion,
Pure unbounded love Thou art;
Visit us with Thy salvation;
Enter every trembling heart.
Breathe, O breathe Thy loving Spirit,
Into every troubled breast!
Let us all in Thee inherit;
Let us find that second rest.
Take away our bent to sinning;
Alpha and Omega be;
End of faith, as its Beginning,
Set our hearts at liberty.
Come, Almighty to deliver,
Let us all Thy life receive;
Suddenly return and never,
Never more Thy temples leave.
Thee we would be always blessing,
Serve Thee as Thy hosts above,
Pray and praise Thee without ceasing,
Glory in Thy perfect love.
Finish, then, Thy new creation;
Pure and spotless let us be.
Let us see Thy great salvation
Perfectly restored in Thee;
Changed from glory into glory,
Till in heaven we take our place,
Till we cast our crowns before Thee,
Lost in wonder, love, and praise.
-Charles Wesley
JE
Joy of heaven to earth come down;
Fix in us thy humble dwelling;
All thy faithful mercies crown!
Jesus, Thou art all compassion,
Pure unbounded love Thou art;
Visit us with Thy salvation;
Enter every trembling heart.
Breathe, O breathe Thy loving Spirit,
Into every troubled breast!
Let us all in Thee inherit;
Let us find that second rest.
Take away our bent to sinning;
Alpha and Omega be;
End of faith, as its Beginning,
Set our hearts at liberty.
Come, Almighty to deliver,
Let us all Thy life receive;
Suddenly return and never,
Never more Thy temples leave.
Thee we would be always blessing,
Serve Thee as Thy hosts above,
Pray and praise Thee without ceasing,
Glory in Thy perfect love.
Finish, then, Thy new creation;
Pure and spotless let us be.
Let us see Thy great salvation
Perfectly restored in Thee;
Changed from glory into glory,
Till in heaven we take our place,
Till we cast our crowns before Thee,
Lost in wonder, love, and praise.
-Charles Wesley
JE
Friday, February 25, 2011
Absolute Truth
Yesterday in one of my Bible classes, my professor made an unfortunate, and contradictory, claim. He said: "There is no absolute truth. I don't think you realize what you are saying when you say that there is absolute truth. You as a finite creature, cannot claim to know absolute truth... no more questions because I need to get through this material."
Of course, to say, "there is no absolute truth," is to make an absolute truth claim. I also think that this professor confused an important principle. He illustrated his point with the example of a pen: there are an infinite number of angles with which I can view a pen, and there is no way for me, a finite being, to view the pen from all the angles at the same time. This is true. However, I believe that he confused the idea of knowing all things with certainty with knowing some things with certainty. Sure, there is no way for me, a finite creature, to know and understand all things about God. But I can know some things based on His revelation of Himself. This revelation of absolute truth is found in the Bible.
Now, I don't share this so that I can show off and try to prove my professor wrong. I write it in order that you may be encouraged to "guard the treasure that has been entrusted to you." Satan would love the opportunity to convince Christians that there is no absolute truth. God's Word says differently... we have and know truth, which is found in the Bible.
JE
Of course, to say, "there is no absolute truth," is to make an absolute truth claim. I also think that this professor confused an important principle. He illustrated his point with the example of a pen: there are an infinite number of angles with which I can view a pen, and there is no way for me, a finite being, to view the pen from all the angles at the same time. This is true. However, I believe that he confused the idea of knowing all things with certainty with knowing some things with certainty. Sure, there is no way for me, a finite creature, to know and understand all things about God. But I can know some things based on His revelation of Himself. This revelation of absolute truth is found in the Bible.
Now, I don't share this so that I can show off and try to prove my professor wrong. I write it in order that you may be encouraged to "guard the treasure that has been entrusted to you." Satan would love the opportunity to convince Christians that there is no absolute truth. God's Word says differently... we have and know truth, which is found in the Bible.
JE
Thursday, February 24, 2011
An Open Letter to North American Churches
The following is an excerpt of an article written by Rev. Fletcher Matandika in Modern Reformation, Volume 20, #2, March/April 2011:
I am writing to share a few things that I have been thinking about over time regarding the state of the church in North America and in the Western world, in light of the prevailing trends we are seeing as a result of the church's departure from the Scriptures, from historic Christianity and its pillars...Much of what I saw and experienced seemed shallow, subjective, and sentimental. It seemed more worldly than godly. This troubled me very much- it left a sour if not a bitter taste in my mouth and was often nauseating.However, I did not know what to do about it as I did not understand the root of the problem and, at times, I was unsure if my sentiments were right or wrong - but something just felt off balance...
... The church must strive by the grace of God to open the eyes of the blind by faithfully proclaiming and living by the gospel of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ (2 Cor. 4:1-6). I feel that many churches across North America are preaching a different kind of gospel, which the Lord through the apostle Paul condemns in Galatians 1:8-9. I plead with all who have been called to preach the gospel to follow the example of the apostle Paul and preach the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:26-27) and contend for the historic Christian faith (Jude 3).
My main goal in writing this letter is to highlight what I consider to be the central problem that I have observed and experienced in the North American Church, which is the lack of faithful preaching of the Word of God... The pure and unadulterated gospel of God's grace is a nonnegotiable priority for the church of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Let me just take a moment and address all of my brothers who have been called to preach the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. Dear brothers:
1. Remember that you have been given the highest calling that any mortal man can received from the Lord Jesus Christ. In His divine providence, the Lord has graciously chosen and called you to declare the whole counsel of God for the salvation of sinners and sanctification of his flock entrusted to you. Heed the divine instruction handed down to Timothy and to us through the pen of the apostle Paul in 2 Timothy 4:2: "Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching."
2. Remember, that souls of sinful men and women are at stake!
3. Remember, that the gospel needs no improvement!
And to my brothers and sisters in the pews:
1. Sincerely long for the Word of God.
2. Fight against the spirit of the age.
3. Seek to understand Christ's atoning work on the cross.
4. Let me encourage you to learn to appreciate the gospel and its necessity for the salvation of sinners.
5. Keep your ministers accountable, especially by praying for them.
Stop playing as the church and start being the church that the Lord Jesus Christ bought with His precious blood. Church is a serious business and so is the worship of God. We do not have the luxury of worshipping the Lord God in the way of our own choosing...
... There is hope in Jesus Christ. The battle is not lost! If you are a true believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, hold on to the faith. Keep fighting the good flight of faith. If you are a gospel minister, pray for the outpouring of God's Holy Spirit upon America and keep preaching the gospel faithfully. It's not a lost cause. Preach Christ, the Son of the Living God, and Him crucified. Remember His own words, "On this rock I will build my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it" (Mt. 16:18). Hold onto that promise and watch what He will do, and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will be found blameless.
JE
I am writing to share a few things that I have been thinking about over time regarding the state of the church in North America and in the Western world, in light of the prevailing trends we are seeing as a result of the church's departure from the Scriptures, from historic Christianity and its pillars...Much of what I saw and experienced seemed shallow, subjective, and sentimental. It seemed more worldly than godly. This troubled me very much- it left a sour if not a bitter taste in my mouth and was often nauseating.However, I did not know what to do about it as I did not understand the root of the problem and, at times, I was unsure if my sentiments were right or wrong - but something just felt off balance...
... The church must strive by the grace of God to open the eyes of the blind by faithfully proclaiming and living by the gospel of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ (2 Cor. 4:1-6). I feel that many churches across North America are preaching a different kind of gospel, which the Lord through the apostle Paul condemns in Galatians 1:8-9. I plead with all who have been called to preach the gospel to follow the example of the apostle Paul and preach the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:26-27) and contend for the historic Christian faith (Jude 3).
My main goal in writing this letter is to highlight what I consider to be the central problem that I have observed and experienced in the North American Church, which is the lack of faithful preaching of the Word of God... The pure and unadulterated gospel of God's grace is a nonnegotiable priority for the church of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Let me just take a moment and address all of my brothers who have been called to preach the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. Dear brothers:
1. Remember that you have been given the highest calling that any mortal man can received from the Lord Jesus Christ. In His divine providence, the Lord has graciously chosen and called you to declare the whole counsel of God for the salvation of sinners and sanctification of his flock entrusted to you. Heed the divine instruction handed down to Timothy and to us through the pen of the apostle Paul in 2 Timothy 4:2: "Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching."
2. Remember, that souls of sinful men and women are at stake!
3. Remember, that the gospel needs no improvement!
And to my brothers and sisters in the pews:
1. Sincerely long for the Word of God.
2. Fight against the spirit of the age.
3. Seek to understand Christ's atoning work on the cross.
4. Let me encourage you to learn to appreciate the gospel and its necessity for the salvation of sinners.
5. Keep your ministers accountable, especially by praying for them.
Stop playing as the church and start being the church that the Lord Jesus Christ bought with His precious blood. Church is a serious business and so is the worship of God. We do not have the luxury of worshipping the Lord God in the way of our own choosing...
... There is hope in Jesus Christ. The battle is not lost! If you are a true believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, hold on to the faith. Keep fighting the good flight of faith. If you are a gospel minister, pray for the outpouring of God's Holy Spirit upon America and keep preaching the gospel faithfully. It's not a lost cause. Preach Christ, the Son of the Living God, and Him crucified. Remember His own words, "On this rock I will build my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it" (Mt. 16:18). Hold onto that promise and watch what He will do, and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will be found blameless.
JE
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
When the heart is cast indeed into the mold of the doctrine that the mind embraces - when the evidence and necessity of the truth abides in us - when not the sense of the words only is in our heads, but the sense of the thing abides in our hearts - when we have communion with God in the doctrine we contend for - then shall we be garrisoned by the grace of God against all the assaults of men. - John Owen
JE
JE
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Encouragement
A word of encouragement from Dr. Couser: "Every day is game day in that every day God is up to something. Somehow God is working in and through us... the condition of our hearts is a determining factor in how well this 'goes over.'"
JE
JE
Sunday, February 13, 2011
For the Love of God
How am I to love God?
Incorrect: "I put God first. First in all of my priorities, first in all of my relationships, first in my schedule, and first in my loves. I wake up early to spend time with God before I do anything else, even when I have a test that day. I place 'God things' in the 'jar of my life' before anything else." When I die, people will think of me and say, 'There was a man who prioritized God first, family second, etc.'"
"Correct: I put God only. Each of my priorities, relationships, schedules, and loves are just a reflection of my love for God. I love, protect, minister to, and provide for my family because that is what God has called me to do. I am devoted to my studies because that is what God has called me to do. I stand by and encourage my friends because that is what God has called me to do. And I minister to my enemies, for God has called me to this too."
Everything I think. Everything I say. Everything I do. For the love of God.
JE
Incorrect: "I put God first. First in all of my priorities, first in all of my relationships, first in my schedule, and first in my loves. I wake up early to spend time with God before I do anything else, even when I have a test that day. I place 'God things' in the 'jar of my life' before anything else." When I die, people will think of me and say, 'There was a man who prioritized God first, family second, etc.'"
"Correct: I put God only. Each of my priorities, relationships, schedules, and loves are just a reflection of my love for God. I love, protect, minister to, and provide for my family because that is what God has called me to do. I am devoted to my studies because that is what God has called me to do. I stand by and encourage my friends because that is what God has called me to do. And I minister to my enemies, for God has called me to this too."
Everything I think. Everything I say. Everything I do. For the love of God.
JE
Saturday, February 12, 2011
The Bible is God's Word... please be careful!
For reasons that should be clear to those who were in the Jeremiah Chapel on Thursday morning, I sense a need for someone to expound on a couple of key passages in James... I think I'll do it.With no disrespect meant for the chapel speaker on Thursday morning, the following are some key points of his message:
1. Partiality is sin
2. "If anyone thinks himself to be religious, and yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this man's religion is worthless. Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world."
3. The Bible says a lot about poverty (apparently there are lots of good books on the subject, too)
The Bible does say a lot about poverty, but please don't use James 1:26-27. Rather than poverty, these two verses alert Christians to what a religion of worth looks like:
1. A bridled tongue
2. Visiting orphans and widows in their distress
3. Remain unstained by the world
Unfortunately, many times preachers look at James 1:26-27 and set points one and three aside, and they focus on the "visitation of widows and orphans in their distress." Why is there so often such an emphasis on point two? I suppose there are different reasons for different preachers... some may think that Christians are already doing so well on bridling their tongues and remaining unstained by the world that little needs to be said (written with as much sarcasm as I can muster)!
Despite my alarm at "shortchanging" points one and three, I will acknowledge that it is essential to take a look at point two since it is certainly an important part of this passage. So, here is what I think James 1:26-27 has to say about poverty:
The New Testament teaches that the Christian is responsible for his/her own family (I Timothy 5). If I fail to provide for my parents when they are in need, then I am worse than an infidel. It is to my shame if the Church provides for my family, and I don't, despite my ability to do so. In this manner, the Bible does not allow for any member of the body of Christ to suffer with lack of provision. This principle is relevant to James 1:26-27 because I believe that it is significant that widows and orphans, who have no family, are listed as those who we must "visit." The Greek word that is translated as, "visit," literally has the idea of "to look after."
So, here is what I trust you "got out" of this post:
1. Don't approach a text of the Bible with preconceived ideas about what the text is going/supposed to say (e.g. "I'm looking for passages on poverty... oh, this looks like one!")
2. Beware to not extrapolate an individual verse in the Bible without first considering the Bible as a whole.
3. Take care of your family
4. The Church body must look out for those who do not have a family to provide for them (widows and orphans)
JE
1. Partiality is sin
2. "If anyone thinks himself to be religious, and yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this man's religion is worthless. Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world."
3. The Bible says a lot about poverty (apparently there are lots of good books on the subject, too)
The Bible does say a lot about poverty, but please don't use James 1:26-27. Rather than poverty, these two verses alert Christians to what a religion of worth looks like:
1. A bridled tongue
2. Visiting orphans and widows in their distress
3. Remain unstained by the world
Unfortunately, many times preachers look at James 1:26-27 and set points one and three aside, and they focus on the "visitation of widows and orphans in their distress." Why is there so often such an emphasis on point two? I suppose there are different reasons for different preachers... some may think that Christians are already doing so well on bridling their tongues and remaining unstained by the world that little needs to be said (written with as much sarcasm as I can muster)!
Despite my alarm at "shortchanging" points one and three, I will acknowledge that it is essential to take a look at point two since it is certainly an important part of this passage. So, here is what I think James 1:26-27 has to say about poverty:
The New Testament teaches that the Christian is responsible for his/her own family (I Timothy 5). If I fail to provide for my parents when they are in need, then I am worse than an infidel. It is to my shame if the Church provides for my family, and I don't, despite my ability to do so. In this manner, the Bible does not allow for any member of the body of Christ to suffer with lack of provision. This principle is relevant to James 1:26-27 because I believe that it is significant that widows and orphans, who have no family, are listed as those who we must "visit." The Greek word that is translated as, "visit," literally has the idea of "to look after."
So, here is what I trust you "got out" of this post:
1. Don't approach a text of the Bible with preconceived ideas about what the text is going/supposed to say (e.g. "I'm looking for passages on poverty... oh, this looks like one!")
2. Beware to not extrapolate an individual verse in the Bible without first considering the Bible as a whole.
3. Take care of your family
4. The Church body must look out for those who do not have a family to provide for them (widows and orphans)
JE
Thursday, February 10, 2011
A Prayer
- Build me a son, O Lord, who will be strong enough to know when he is weak; and brave enough to face himself when he is afraid; one who will be proud and unbending in honest defeat and humble and gentle in victory.Build me a son whose wishes will not take the place of deeds; a son who will know Thee -- and that to know himself is the foundation stone of knowledge.
Lead him, I pray, not in the path of ease and comfort, but under the stress and spur of difficulties and challenge. Here let him learn to stand up in the storm; here let him learn compassion for those who fail.
Build me a son whose heart will be clear, whose goal will be high, a son who will master himself before he seeks to master other men, one who will reach into the future, yet never forget the past.
And after all these things are his, add, I pray, enough of a sense of humor, so that he may always be serious, yet never take himself too seriously. Give him humility, so that he may always remember the simplicity of true greatness, the open mind of true wisdom, and the meekness of true strength.
Then I, his father, will dare to whisper, "I have not lived in vain!"
- General Douglas MacArthur
JE
Friday, February 4, 2011
"Harken to the Warning"
"But you, so long as you neglect your own salvation, act as if you know not God, your Creator and Proprietor, nor your dependence upon him. The very beasts, when they see signs of an approaching storm, will betake themselves to their dens for shelter. Yet you, when abundantly warned of the approaching storm of divine vengeance, will not fly to the hiding place from the storm... You have been once more warned today, while the door of the ark yet stands open. You have, as it were, once again heard the knocks of the hammer and axe in the building of the ark, to put you in mind that a flood is approaching. Take heed therefore that you do not still your ears, treat these warnings with a regardless heart, and still neglect the great work which you have to do, lest the flood of wrath suddenly come upon you, sweep you away, and there be no remedy."
- Jonathan Edwards
JE
- Jonathan Edwards
JE
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Sermon
"Ministers - who now often meet their people to preach to them the King eternal, immortal, and invisible, to convince them that he governs and will judge the world, and that there is a future state of rewards and punishments, and to preach to them a Christ in heaven, at the right hand of God, in an unseen world - shall then meet their people in the most immediate sensible presence of this great God, Savior, and Judge, appearing in the most plain, visible, and open manner, with great glory, with all his holy angels, before them and the whole world. They shall not meet them to hear about an absent Christ, an unseen Lord, and future Judge; but to appear before that Judge - being set together in the presence of that supreme Lord - in his immense glory and awful majesty, of whom they have heard so often in their meetings together on earth... Ministers are sent forth by Christ to their people on his business. They are his servants and messengers; and, when they have finished their service, they must return to their master to give him an account of what they had done, and of the entertainment they have had in performing their ministry... So we read, in Hebrews 13:17, of ministers or rulers in house of God, that 'they watch for souls, as those that must give account.'"
-Jonathan Edwards
JE
-Jonathan Edwards
JE
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Rise Up O Men of God
Here is a great hymn that I thought I would share. If you would like to listen to a stirring rendition, then click on the following link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PLtX7h107-s&feature=related
Rise up, O men of God!
Have done with lesser things.
Give heart and mind and soul and strength
To serve the King of kings.
Rise up, O men of God!
The church for you doth wait,
Her strength unequal to her task;
Rise up and make her great!
Lift high the cross of Christ!
Tread where His feet have trod.
As brothers of the Son of Man,
Rise up, O men of God!
JE
Rise up, O men of God!
Have done with lesser things.
Give heart and mind and soul and strength
To serve the King of kings.
Rise up, O men of God!
The church for you doth wait,
Her strength unequal to her task;
Rise up and make her great!
Lift high the cross of Christ!
Tread where His feet have trod.
As brothers of the Son of Man,
Rise up, O men of God!
JE
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Teach Me Thy Way, O Lord
- Teach me Thy way, O Lord,
Teach me Thy way;
Thy gracious aid afford,
Teach me Thy way.
Help me to walk aright;
More by faith, less by sight;
Lead me with heav'nly light,
Teach me Thy way. - When doubts and fears arise,
Teach me Thy way;
When storms o'erspread the skies,
Teach me Thy way.
Shine through the cloud and rain,
Through sorrow, toil, and pain;
Make Thou my pathway plain,
Teach me Thy way. - Long as my life shall last,
Teach me Thy way;
Where'er my lot be cast,
Teach me Thy way.
Until the race is run,
Until the journey's done,
Until the crown is won,
Teach me Thy way.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Disturbing
Read this article in its entirety, and let it sink in...
http://www.foxnews.com/world/2011/01/24/egypt-face-tunisian-inspired-protests/
Humbly Submitted,
JE
http://www.foxnews.com/world/2011/01/24/egypt-face-tunisian-inspired-protests/
Humbly Submitted,
JE
Saturday, January 22, 2011
The Gospel & Personal Evangelism (PT. 1)
During my Christmas break last month, I read The Gospel and Personal Evangelism by Mark Dever. To my understanding, Pastor Dever has an intense desire to see more and more Christians involve themselves in evangelism. What is evangelism? Well, at the heart and center of biblical evangelism is the gospel. What is the gospel? Try this:
The good news is that the one and only God, who is holy, made us in His image to know Him. But we sinned and cut ourselves off from Him. In His great love, God became a man in Jesus, lived a perfect life, and died on the cross, thus fulfilling the law Himself and taking on Himself the punishment for the sins of all those who would ever turn and trust in Him. He rose again from the dead, showing that God accepted Christ's sacrifice and that God's wrath against us had been exhausted. "In love He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will... In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses." (Eph. 1) This one and only God, "gave Himself for us to redeem us from every lawless deed, and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds." (Titus 2)
Humbly Submitted,
JE
The good news is that the one and only God, who is holy, made us in His image to know Him. But we sinned and cut ourselves off from Him. In His great love, God became a man in Jesus, lived a perfect life, and died on the cross, thus fulfilling the law Himself and taking on Himself the punishment for the sins of all those who would ever turn and trust in Him. He rose again from the dead, showing that God accepted Christ's sacrifice and that God's wrath against us had been exhausted. "In love He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will... In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses." (Eph. 1) This one and only God, "gave Himself for us to redeem us from every lawless deed, and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds." (Titus 2)
Humbly Submitted,
JE
Monday, January 17, 2011
My Greek Professor Said...
"What would you rather say? 'I'm not a trained speaker, but I have the truth', or 'I may not have the truth, but I am a trained speaker?' Now, I'm not saying that I want you to be a terrible speaker. I am saying that you must speak the truth. They don't need your outlines, beautiful words, elaborate methods, or expertise! They need the truth!"
- Dr. Couser
JE
- Dr. Couser
JE
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
God's Will
It must have something to do with the fact that I am entering my final semester of college, but a common topic of conversation that I conduct with folks is the will of God. On numerous occasions I have been asked, "Jonathan, what is God's plan for me? How can I find what it is that God wants me to do?"
My response to these questions is quite simple. Simple is generally the best way to go about things anyway (for example, never use a big word when a diminutive one will do!).
In all seriousness, my response is in the form of two questions:
1. How are you becoming more like Jesus, today? (sanctification)
2. What are you doing to make disciples? (obedience)
Sanctification has three aspects:
(1) at the moment of salvation when God's sets us apart (1 Cor. 6:11), (2) a continual process as we become more and more like Christ (1 Thess. 4:3), and (3) our standing before God without blame (1 Thess. 3:13). If nothing else, a single-minded desire to please God eliminates a whole lot of lifestyle choices. As a Christian works out his convictions, the direction of his/her life will certainly take shape.
Based on Matthew 28:18-20, I say with confidence that if a Christian is not in the business of making disciples, then he is not obeying God. What does "making disciples" look like? Well, that can be a post for another evening! For now, I want to make this point: becoming a disciple-maker is fundamental to being obedient to Christ's will. It is amazing how many times I have witnessed in my own life (in some cases), and in the lives of others, how God honors those who are faithful in discipling those who God brings at the present time. Think about it for a moment, How could you expect God to bring that one "big ministry opportunity" to you if you fail to be faithful to disciple the three men or women God has brought into your life for the current time? Don't you think that small group discipleship could be effective preparation for discipleship of a wife and children?
So, as we all wait patiently for God's revelation to each one of us about what we are supposed to do next year (or next week!), let's actively pursue our sanctification and discipleship opportunities. I believe that God will honor that more than you could know. And, about the whole patience thing, remember: God is seldom early, but He is never late!
Humbly Submitted,
JE
My response to these questions is quite simple. Simple is generally the best way to go about things anyway (for example, never use a big word when a diminutive one will do!).
In all seriousness, my response is in the form of two questions:
1. How are you becoming more like Jesus, today? (sanctification)
2. What are you doing to make disciples? (obedience)
Sanctification has three aspects:
(1) at the moment of salvation when God's sets us apart (1 Cor. 6:11), (2) a continual process as we become more and more like Christ (1 Thess. 4:3), and (3) our standing before God without blame (1 Thess. 3:13). If nothing else, a single-minded desire to please God eliminates a whole lot of lifestyle choices. As a Christian works out his convictions, the direction of his/her life will certainly take shape.
Based on Matthew 28:18-20, I say with confidence that if a Christian is not in the business of making disciples, then he is not obeying God. What does "making disciples" look like? Well, that can be a post for another evening! For now, I want to make this point: becoming a disciple-maker is fundamental to being obedient to Christ's will. It is amazing how many times I have witnessed in my own life (in some cases), and in the lives of others, how God honors those who are faithful in discipling those who God brings at the present time. Think about it for a moment, How could you expect God to bring that one "big ministry opportunity" to you if you fail to be faithful to disciple the three men or women God has brought into your life for the current time? Don't you think that small group discipleship could be effective preparation for discipleship of a wife and children?
So, as we all wait patiently for God's revelation to each one of us about what we are supposed to do next year (or next week!), let's actively pursue our sanctification and discipleship opportunities. I believe that God will honor that more than you could know. And, about the whole patience thing, remember: God is seldom early, but He is never late!
Humbly Submitted,
JE
Saturday, January 8, 2011
"Now I Make Known To You..."
One of my favorite things about being with my family is the chance to read the Bible with them, and then to listen to my father talk about spiritual things! I was reminded of this the other night when we were reading through Luke 20, and verse 1 was read: "On one of the days while He was teaching the people in the temple and preaching the gospel..."
My father's comment was, "Wouldn't it be something to hear Jesus preach the gospel? What would that be like... maybe it wouldn't be so wonderful, as evidenced by the response of those who heard Jesus' teaching!"
You see, when Jesus presents the gospel, He presents Himself! This of course motivated a response from the religious leaders: by what authority do you say these things? For in fact, to claim oneself as the Messiah and Savior is a bold claim that is reserved for God alone.
I can discuss methods all day long, but the message is of paramount importance. What is the message? Christ! What of Christ? Christ crucified and resurrected! I Corinthians 15:1-4... "Now I make known to you, brethren, the gospel which I preached to you, which also you received, in which also you stand, by which also you are saved, if you hold fast the word which I preached to you, unless you believed in vain. For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ dies for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures."
Humbly Submitted,
JE
My father's comment was, "Wouldn't it be something to hear Jesus preach the gospel? What would that be like... maybe it wouldn't be so wonderful, as evidenced by the response of those who heard Jesus' teaching!"
You see, when Jesus presents the gospel, He presents Himself! This of course motivated a response from the religious leaders: by what authority do you say these things? For in fact, to claim oneself as the Messiah and Savior is a bold claim that is reserved for God alone.
I can discuss methods all day long, but the message is of paramount importance. What is the message? Christ! What of Christ? Christ crucified and resurrected! I Corinthians 15:1-4... "Now I make known to you, brethren, the gospel which I preached to you, which also you received, in which also you stand, by which also you are saved, if you hold fast the word which I preached to you, unless you believed in vain. For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ dies for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures."
Humbly Submitted,
JE
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Abide With Me
As I was riding a bus through Cairo today I couldn't help but notice the amount of security forces around the city who had been placed to help keep Christians safe as they attended Christmas-eve services tonight (Coptic Christmas is on January 7). To be honest, there is a pretty tight atmosphere in Egypt as a result of the strife. For some reason however, the first thing that came to my mind when I saw the bomb squads and soldiers was the hymn, Abide With Me.
The music to this hymn is very beautiful, I encourage you to check it out on YouTube or something. The words were written by an European man named Henry F. Lyte. Mr. Lyte actually wrote the first four stanzas of the song in his younger days before his conversion experience. Later, while on his death bed, his wife came upon the four stanzas and showed them to him. The last verse was penned the night before Henry Lyte passed away, concluding the hymn that illustrates a heart of humble trust in the Helper of the helpless.
Abide with me: fast falls the even tide;
The Darkness deepens; Lord with me abide!
When other helpers fail, and comforts flee,
Help of the helpless, O abide with me.
Swift to its close ebbs out life's little day;
Earth's joys grow dim, its glories pass away;
Change and decay in all around I see.
O Thou who changest not, abide with me.
I need Thy presence every passing hour;
What but Thy grace can foil the tempter's power?
Who, like Thyself, my guide and stay can be?
Through cloud and sunshine, Lord, abide with me.
I fear no foe, with Thee at hand to bless;
Ills have no weight, and tears no bitterness.
Where is death's sting? Where, grave, they victory?
I triumph still, if Thou abide with me.
Hold Thou Thy cross before my closing eyes;
Shine through the gloom and point me to the skies:
Heav'ns morning breaks, and earth's vain shadows flee;
In life, in death, O Lord, abide with me.
- Henry F. Lyte
JE
The music to this hymn is very beautiful, I encourage you to check it out on YouTube or something. The words were written by an European man named Henry F. Lyte. Mr. Lyte actually wrote the first four stanzas of the song in his younger days before his conversion experience. Later, while on his death bed, his wife came upon the four stanzas and showed them to him. The last verse was penned the night before Henry Lyte passed away, concluding the hymn that illustrates a heart of humble trust in the Helper of the helpless.
Abide with me: fast falls the even tide;
The Darkness deepens; Lord with me abide!
When other helpers fail, and comforts flee,
Help of the helpless, O abide with me.
Swift to its close ebbs out life's little day;
Earth's joys grow dim, its glories pass away;
Change and decay in all around I see.
O Thou who changest not, abide with me.
I need Thy presence every passing hour;
What but Thy grace can foil the tempter's power?
Who, like Thyself, my guide and stay can be?
Through cloud and sunshine, Lord, abide with me.
I fear no foe, with Thee at hand to bless;
Ills have no weight, and tears no bitterness.
Where is death's sting? Where, grave, they victory?
I triumph still, if Thou abide with me.
Hold Thou Thy cross before my closing eyes;
Shine through the gloom and point me to the skies:
Heav'ns morning breaks, and earth's vain shadows flee;
In life, in death, O Lord, abide with me.
- Henry F. Lyte
JE
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
The Time is Coming... and Quickly!
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-12112217
Please keep the Egyptian Church in your prayers. Every day since the bombing in Alexandria on New Years there have been deadly protests in various cities across Egypt (including Cairo). I realize that it often tempting to view something like this as an event that took place far away and therefore not necessarily something to prioritize in one's prayer time. However, there is a bigger picture to consider!
Even as we in the West have scoffed at bin Laden as he has declared a religious war, I think that he may have been right all along. Remember, the claim of Jesus as being the Christ is a threat to every other belief system, even to the Muslim (who would say that Jesus is one of the greatest prophets). The world cannot tolerate Jesus as God... Christians throughout history have understood this.
This past November, after a church bombing in Baghdad, al-Qaeda stated that all Christians in the Middle East will be considered as legitimate targets. Despite the oppressive efforts of the current regime to maintain control of Egypt, the Muslim Brotherhood has continued to gain popularity. They have publicly stated that once they are in power of Egypt they will eliminate Christianity from the country. These things put some perspective on the New Years bombing. To add some personal perspective, one my friends in Egypt has some relatives who were injured in the Alexandria bombing, and many Christians in the country can no longer get into their churches because the security is so high.
Pray:
1) That God would choose to protect His followers in Egypt
3) That Egyptian Christians would grow bold in their testimony of the gospel, instead of the defense of their personal "rights."
I would close with a word a word of admonishment for American Christians, including myself. The time is at hand for those who claim the name of the Lord to live in a manner worthy of the Lord. Persecution will reach us in America, despite how comfortable we may feel at the moment. This is not something to dread; indeed we have been promised this suffering as our reward for obedience to Jesus Christ. All that remains for us to do is to be faithful to the gospel despite the loss of influence that we may experience. Too often we fail to recognize the difference between power and influence. The first century Church did not have the influence to free Peter from prison, but it had the power to appeal to the God of Heaven!
May I be ever faithful; I am looking to the day that Jesus will be vindicated! (see Revelation)
Humbly Submitted,
JE
Please keep the Egyptian Church in your prayers. Every day since the bombing in Alexandria on New Years there have been deadly protests in various cities across Egypt (including Cairo). I realize that it often tempting to view something like this as an event that took place far away and therefore not necessarily something to prioritize in one's prayer time. However, there is a bigger picture to consider!
Even as we in the West have scoffed at bin Laden as he has declared a religious war, I think that he may have been right all along. Remember, the claim of Jesus as being the Christ is a threat to every other belief system, even to the Muslim (who would say that Jesus is one of the greatest prophets). The world cannot tolerate Jesus as God... Christians throughout history have understood this.
This past November, after a church bombing in Baghdad, al-Qaeda stated that all Christians in the Middle East will be considered as legitimate targets. Despite the oppressive efforts of the current regime to maintain control of Egypt, the Muslim Brotherhood has continued to gain popularity. They have publicly stated that once they are in power of Egypt they will eliminate Christianity from the country. These things put some perspective on the New Years bombing. To add some personal perspective, one my friends in Egypt has some relatives who were injured in the Alexandria bombing, and many Christians in the country can no longer get into their churches because the security is so high.
Pray:
1) That God would choose to protect His followers in Egypt
3) That Egyptian Christians would grow bold in their testimony of the gospel, instead of the defense of their personal "rights."
I would close with a word a word of admonishment for American Christians, including myself. The time is at hand for those who claim the name of the Lord to live in a manner worthy of the Lord. Persecution will reach us in America, despite how comfortable we may feel at the moment. This is not something to dread; indeed we have been promised this suffering as our reward for obedience to Jesus Christ. All that remains for us to do is to be faithful to the gospel despite the loss of influence that we may experience. Too often we fail to recognize the difference between power and influence. The first century Church did not have the influence to free Peter from prison, but it had the power to appeal to the God of Heaven!
May I be ever faithful; I am looking to the day that Jesus will be vindicated! (see Revelation)
Humbly Submitted,
JE
O God Our Help in Ages Past
O God, our Help in ages past,
Our hope for years to come,
Our shelter from the stormy blast,
And our eternal Home!
Under the shadow of Thy Throne
Still may we dwell secure;
Sufficient is Thine arm alone,
And our defense is sure.
Before the hills in order stood,
Or earth received her frame,
From everlasting Thou art God,
To endless years the same.
A thousand ages in Thy sight
Are like an evening gone;
Short as the watch that ends the night,
Before the rising sun.
O God, our Help in ages past,
Our hope for years to come,
Be though our Guide while life shall last,
And our eternal Home!
- Isaac Watts
Our hope for years to come,
Our shelter from the stormy blast,
And our eternal Home!
Under the shadow of Thy Throne
Still may we dwell secure;
Sufficient is Thine arm alone,
And our defense is sure.
Before the hills in order stood,
Or earth received her frame,
From everlasting Thou art God,
To endless years the same.
A thousand ages in Thy sight
Are like an evening gone;
Short as the watch that ends the night,
Before the rising sun.
O God, our Help in ages past,
Our hope for years to come,
Be though our Guide while life shall last,
And our eternal Home!
- Isaac Watts
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Egypt Church Bomb
For those of you who are interested, the following link will take you to an article (written by an acquaintance of mine) that responds to the church bombing in Alexandria on New Years. What makes this bombing significant (in addition to the fact that people were killed and hurt) is that Christians in the Middle East have been increasingly named as targets of terrorists attacks. Despite the fact that I don't agree with everything Cornelis Hulsman says, I do believe that he properly identifies religion as a significant factor in this latest attack.
http://arabwestreport.info/node/27405
Humbly Submitted,
JE
http://arabwestreport.info/node/27405
Humbly Submitted,
JE
Saturday, January 1, 2011
II Peter 3:11-18
"But the day of the Lord will come like a thief in which the heavens will pass away with a roar and the elements will be destroyed with intense heat, and the earth and its works will be burned up.
Since all these things are to be destroyed in this way, what sort of people ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be destroyed by burning, and the elements will melt with intense heat! But according to His promise we are looking for new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells.
Therefore, beloved, since you look for these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, spotless and blameless, and regard the patience of our Lord as salvation; just as also our brother Paul, according to the wisdom given him, wrote to you, as also in all his letters, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which the untaught and unstable distort, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures, to their own destruction. You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, be on your guard so that you are not carried away by the error of unprincipled men and fall from your own steadfastness, but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen."
Since all these things are to be destroyed in this way, what sort of people ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be destroyed by burning, and the elements will melt with intense heat! But according to His promise we are looking for new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells.
Therefore, beloved, since you look for these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, spotless and blameless, and regard the patience of our Lord as salvation; just as also our brother Paul, according to the wisdom given him, wrote to you, as also in all his letters, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which the untaught and unstable distort, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures, to their own destruction. You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, be on your guard so that you are not carried away by the error of unprincipled men and fall from your own steadfastness, but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen."
A Christianity That Offends (Pt. 4)
Repentance: A repositioning of my stance towards God... to turn towards Him.
The value of this definition is that it focuses on God, not man's sin. If you reference one of my previous posts, I wrote that I believe that it is not adequate to say that repentance is remorse and sorrow over sin, but it must include a turning to God. I can weep over my sin all I want, but there is no repentance if I do not turn to a Savior.
Paul wrote I Corinthians as a sort of rebuke to the church in Corinth, and in II Corinthians he acknowledged that his first letter caused a certain degree of sorrow for the Church over their sin. Here is what he said in 7:8-10: For though I caused you sorrow by my letter, I do not regret it; though I did regret it - for I see that that letter caused you sorrow, though only for a while - I now rejoice, not that you were made sorrowful, but that you were made sorrowful to the point of repentance; for you were made sorrowful according to the will of God, that you might not suffer loss in anything through us. For the sorrow that is according to the will of God produces a repentance without regret, leading to salvation, but the sorrow of the world produces death.
There is a lot in that passage to be sure, but for now, this is the point I want to make: salvation does not occur through our sorrow alone. Sorrow must lead to repentance, which will in turn lead to salvation.
Several important thoughts:
1) Sorrow is necessary for true repentance.
2) This sorrow must be motivated by an encounter with the gospel of Jesus Christ.
3) God's Word reveals sin, which leads the humble heart to sorrow, which leads to a heart that is prepared
for repentance.
4) Sin is worth being sorry for... and God is the one who defines sin. Responding with sorrow to the
accusations of the Devil, and the moments where "I don't feel right," is not the sorrow that leads to
repentance.
5) Walk in the Holy Spirit moment by moment, be in God's Word daily, and have godly, consistent accountability... these are good practices that will help produce the sorrow over sin that will lead to repentance.
Humbly Submitted,
JE
The value of this definition is that it focuses on God, not man's sin. If you reference one of my previous posts, I wrote that I believe that it is not adequate to say that repentance is remorse and sorrow over sin, but it must include a turning to God. I can weep over my sin all I want, but there is no repentance if I do not turn to a Savior.
Paul wrote I Corinthians as a sort of rebuke to the church in Corinth, and in II Corinthians he acknowledged that his first letter caused a certain degree of sorrow for the Church over their sin. Here is what he said in 7:8-10: For though I caused you sorrow by my letter, I do not regret it; though I did regret it - for I see that that letter caused you sorrow, though only for a while - I now rejoice, not that you were made sorrowful, but that you were made sorrowful to the point of repentance; for you were made sorrowful according to the will of God, that you might not suffer loss in anything through us. For the sorrow that is according to the will of God produces a repentance without regret, leading to salvation, but the sorrow of the world produces death.
There is a lot in that passage to be sure, but for now, this is the point I want to make: salvation does not occur through our sorrow alone. Sorrow must lead to repentance, which will in turn lead to salvation.
Several important thoughts:
1) Sorrow is necessary for true repentance.
2) This sorrow must be motivated by an encounter with the gospel of Jesus Christ.
3) God's Word reveals sin, which leads the humble heart to sorrow, which leads to a heart that is prepared
for repentance.
4) Sin is worth being sorry for... and God is the one who defines sin. Responding with sorrow to the
accusations of the Devil, and the moments where "I don't feel right," is not the sorrow that leads to
repentance.
5) Walk in the Holy Spirit moment by moment, be in God's Word daily, and have godly, consistent accountability... these are good practices that will help produce the sorrow over sin that will lead to repentance.
Humbly Submitted,
JE
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