Tough love

As we labor to help others follow Christ we must sometimes cause them pain. Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians was a blunt rebuke. Though it grieved him to hurt them, he rejoiced in the result. The pain produced godly sorrow leading to repentance and restoration (2Co 7:6-10). It was not just the sorrow of being caught and disciplined, but genuine remorse over acknowledged sin. The prudent application of pain brought about godly sorrow. It is a tool we are reluctant to use as parents and as disciple-makers. Nevertheless, it is sometimes necessary. We must not avoid using every tool at our disposal to bring people to Christ.

The school of ministry

Ministry is very much like parenting. Paul often refers to his flock as children (2Co 6:13). He is fully invested in them (1Thess 2:7-8). He sacrificed his time, talent, energy, body and life for them (2Co 4:11). His heart ached for them when they were lured away by some flashy philosophy of the world (2Co 5:12, 6:10). He labored with them until Christ was formed in them (Gal 4:19). He was brutally honest. He applied discipline. He encouraged, exhorted, persuaded. His heart thrilled with their successes and broke with their failures. So for those of us who are in the throes of parenting, consider it the school of ministry.

The God of comfort

Our troubles seem overwhelming. Our hearts are broken and we are weighed down with grief. Even in this process God is at work. He is preparing us for some future ministry of comforting those who have similar trials (2Co 1:4-6). In the midst of the struggle this seems like cold comfort. Why must my family be ravaged to equip me to comfort another? I guess the only way we truly learn is through pain. Consider Him who endured such hostility by sinners against himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart (Heb 12:3).

Maintaining the faith

Faith is not constant (Rom 11:22). It waxes and wanes. To maintain it we must incorporate certain disciplines; prayer, Scripture reading, service. If you don’t exercise it, your faith will atrophy. Occasionally, we should challenge our faith (practically and intellectually). Do something that requires us to trust God a little more. Ask God for something big. Also, don’t shy away from theological subjects that cause you to doubt. Work through them and you will find your faith strengthened by asking the hard questions.

Why me, Lord?

Occasionally I need to be humbled by the fact that God chose me. Though I was not a physical son of Abraham, He chose me. Though I am rebellious like the rest, He chose me. Though there was nothing in me to distinguish me, He chose me (Rom 9:15). To him who is given much, much is required (Luk 12:28). Lord, help me to walk in a manner worthy of my calling (Eph 4:1). Help me to lay hold of that for which you laid hold of me (Phil 3:12).

Struggling with sin

We all fight a battle within. We want to do right, but often find ourselves doing the very things we hate (Rom 7:15). The key to winning this battle is to live by the Spirit (Rom 7:6). That is to consider ourselves dead to sin and alive to God (Rom 6:10-11). Realize that we may still sin, but sin has no power over us. We are free to focus on pursuing the positive (walking in the Spirit, seeking the kingdom, giving God glory). It is common to fight the battle within by attempting to avoid the negative (keep the Law). That does not work. The only way to prevail is to be so filled with the Spirit, that there is no room left for the flesh.

Condemning myself

I am frustrated by this wicked world. I am angry at the incompetence, apathy and arrogance that I see around me. What drives me over the edge is when people hurt others because of their own laziness and abuse of power. Then I read Romans 2:1, “You who judge others do the very same things.” I am broken. What right do I have to rail against the ills of humanity when I contribute to them? Lord, forgive me. Help me to love those who hurt me just as you love me when I hurt you (Rom 5:8). Remove my anger and replace it with your Spirit. Renew a right spirit within me (Psa 51).

An affinity for chaos

The people of Ephesus formed a mob capable of violence against Christians and Jews. Incredibly, most of them didn’t even know why they were there (Act 19:32). They got caught up in the group think and were drawn more by the excitement than the cause. For two hours they shouted, “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!” because one man said there might be a threat to their god’s credibility. (Act 19:34) Rather than think these thing through for themselves, they joined the movement like lemmings. I suspect the same phenomenon is occurring in things like “Arab Spring” and “Occupy” movements. Most folks just want to make a splash, but they don’t know why they’re making waves or how destructive the mob can be. Think through the issues and affect change through legitimate channels. God is a not a God of confusion, but of peace (1Co 14:33).

Living for the resurrection

What enables us to give, sacrifice, serve and deny ourselves? It is the promise of the resurrection. Paul said, “If we have hoped in Christ for this life only we are of all men most to be pitied.” (1Co 15:19) He was saying that all of his trials in pursuit of the kingdom would have been in vain if there was no resurrection (1Co 15:30-32). If there is no after-life, we shouldn’t sacrifice a thing in this one. However, since there is a resurrection, the more we give the more we gain. Paul’s conclusion was, “be strong and immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord.” (1Co 15:58)

The oil of relationships

No organization works perfectly. No church runs smoothly, without any interpersonal issues. After Paul attempts to address all of the various problems of the Corinthian church, he finally says, “Love one another.” (1Co 13) We can do our best to address individual issues, but the solution is always love. Love greases the gears of our human machines. Love is the oil that lubricates our rough edges as we work together. Rather than be discouraged by human problems, we should anticipate them and love each other in spite of them. The greatest of these is love.

The new governor

In Christ we are no longer bound by the law (Gal 5:1, 13). As Paul said to the Corinthians, “all things are lawful but all things are not profitable.” (1Co 10:23) What, then, governs our behavior? If grace abounds should we sin all the more? May it never be. (Rom 6:1-2) Rather our behavior is now governed by love. (1Co 8:1) So that we may abstain even from things that are lawful because we love God and we love his people. We may sacrifice legitimate “rights” in the pursuit of Christ (1Co 9:11-12). We may limit our freedoms in consideration of a brother with a weaker conscience (1Co 8:10-13). What is more important; your rights and freedom or the kingdom of God? (1Co 10:33).

The spectrum of sacrifice

Each person is uniquely gifted by God. Within the boundaries of morality, there isn’t one standard of behavior to which we are all held (1Co 6:12). The grace of God allows for a wide range of lifestyles within the family of God. Some will choose to forgo a family for the sake of the kingdom (1Co 7:6, Mat 19:10-11). Others will marry and raise children to the glory of God. Some will abstain from legitimate pleasures and joys for the sake of the kingdom. Others will enjoy God’s gifts with thankfulness (1Co 7:29-31). We should stop judging ourselves and one another with reference to the sacrifices we make for the kingdom. The Lord himself will judge our motives when he returns (1Co 4:5).

Simple words, powerful Spirit

Among the Greeks, who prided themselves in their rhetorical prowess, Paul determined to speak plainly about a simple message; Christ crucified (1Co 2:1-5). The Greeks tended to idolize the most persuasive speaker (1Co 1:12). Paul did not rely on his superior ability to speak, but on the power of the Holy Spirit to reveal the mysteries of the kingdom (1Co 1:17, 2:13-14). We are very much like the Greeks in our appreciation of human cleverness. Our churches tend to revolve around a personality, so much so that some have taken to sending video of the preacher to satellite locations. Our churches should revolve around Christ and human personalities should diminish. Perhaps we should re-think how we “do church.” He must increase, but we must decrease (Joh 3:30).

The value of work

Apparently the Thessalonians had a problem with laziness and idleness. Paul warned them in his first letter (1Thes 5:14). He addressed the issue at length in his second letter (2Thes 3:6-12). This is where we find the famous passage, “If a man does not work, neither let him eat.” The Lord values hard work, pulling your own weight and contributing to the needs of those around you (Eph 4:28). We must see our work as a holy calling. All money is God’s money. Your job is the means God has given you to provide for your family and re-direct resources into the kingdom (1Ti 6:17-19). Whatever you do, do it for the glory of God (1Co 10:31).

Here comes the Judge

Jesus’ coming as judge was a large part of Paul’s message to new believers. He told the Athenians that the resurrection uniquely qualified Jesus to judge the world on a day set by the Father (Act 17:31). Jesus is also the one who rescues believers from the coming judgment (1Thes 1:10). We tend not to think much of Jesus in the role of judge. We have grown sleepy as the Judge tarries. The coming judgment provides motivation for us to remain alert and mission focused (1Thes 4:6). It also provides unbelievers with motive to surrender to Christ, throwing themselves on the mercy of the court while there is still time (Mat 5:25). Although it is unpopular, and politically incorrect, perhaps we should re-emphasize this truth about Jesus.

Humanity and ministry

I imagine Paul must have felt a bit hypocritical to encourage the new churches to be one in Christ after his bitter disagreement with Barnabas. The two friends and co-missionaries could not agree on John Mark, so they separated (Act 15:39). However, their inability to minister together did not prevent them from ministering separately. No preacher is perfect. All of us deal with typical human foibles of anger, jealousy, ambition, and grudge-bearing just like the people to whom we minister. We are not disqualified by these things. Rather, as a fellow sinner, we are qualified to preach the grace of God.

Free to serve

It was for freedom that Christ set you free (Gal 5:1). The only constraint is that you don’t use your freedom to satisfy your flesh (Gal 5:13). You are completely free to serve Christ in whatever way the Spirit leads (Gal 5:13, 16). Follow the Spirit and you’ll be so busy doing what is right that you won’t have to worry about avoiding what is wrong (Gal 5:16). What are you passionate about? What do you want to do for Christ? Do it! What opportunity for ministry do you want to explore? Go for it! What bold plan would you like to try for the kingdom? Try it! With the safety net of God’s grace beneath you, go ahead and attempt the triple back flip with a half twist. YOU ARE FREE TO SERVE.

How soon we forget

Paul was amazed that the Galatians turned away from the gospel so quickly (Gal 1:6). No sooner had he returned home than they had already been lead astray. If that was the case within months of hearing the gospel, how far off are we two thousand years later? Salvation, regeneration by the Holy Spirit, is apparently no guarantee of persistent orthodoxy. We must continually return to the simplicity and purity of the gospel (2Co 11:3). The early church had problems almost immediately (Act 6:1). Paul warned about false teachers (Act 20:29). People are rascals and ministry is messy. All we can do is to keep working against our tendency to disintegrate.

Loss of leverage

When Paul and Barnabas preached the message of the gospel polarized the people. Some wanted to worship them while others stoned them (Act 14:18-19). This new and powerful message could not be ignored. People made a distinct decision to believe or reject. When they were rejected the missionaries went on to new territory (Act 13:46). The question for our day is, “What should we do if the message is ignored?” The gospel message in our society seems innocuous and anemic. What is the problem? Is it the messengers or the audience? Since apathy is a form of rejection, should we move on to new territory?

Sincerely seeking

Cornelius genuinely feared God, prayed and gave to the poor. Because he was sincerely attempting to apply the information that he had about God, the Lord supernaturally arranged for him to hear the gospel (Act 11:14). Both Cornelius and Peter were willing to obey the Lord’s instructions through angels and the Holy Spirit. The result was Cornelius’ salvation and the opening of a broad new mission field to the Gentiles. It’s important to be sincere and sensitive in your pursuit of Christ. Seek and you will find (Mat 7:7).

The calling in the crisis

Saul was a man on a mission. God turned him around abruptly by blinding him and speaking to him. (Act 9:3-8) God has a way of using a crisis to get our attention. What if you lost your sight or hearing or the use of your limbs? Would you hear God in the crisis? C.S. Lewis said, “Pain is God’s megaphone.” We may have a very clear direction in life and pursue it passionately, but God reserves the right to change our course. The mind of man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps (Pro 16:9). Listen for the calling in the crisis.

Work or walk

There are enough people in the church to do the work of the church. As the early church expanded, more needs came to the surface. Practical ministries required folks to run them (Act 6:1-6). When the people brought the problem to the apostles they said, “We don’t have time for that and our primary ministry of teaching.” That may seem arrogant or callous, but if was a fact. The early Christians understood that the church was not a service to which they were entitled. Rather it was a fellowship in which everyone did their part. Our churches today have become entertainment and service oriented. Ninety percent of the people are served (or entertained) while ten percent work until they are burned out. Joining a church should mean investing in the fellowship with service and support, not merely an expectation of “being fed.” Doing your part is not an option. It is a requirement for membership.

Just another religion?

The early church grew rapidly because they had powerful, new message (Acts 4:4). The gospel has become “old news” in our culture and the church is anemic. We must rediscover the novelty of our message and its potential to change lives. We don’t need to make up a new message or concoct fake miracles to verify it. We need to preach the authentic gospel to those for whom it is new and powerful. Two venues come to mind: children and foreigners from “non-Christian” countries. These groups have not been exposed to an unapplied, adulterated gospel. Their experience with Christianity may still be unbiased. Lord, show me where to preach your word and give me opportunity!

Freed from futility

To what are we referring when we say we are “saved?” What are we saved from? Certainly, we are saved from hell. We are rescued from the wrath of God. However, Peter emphasized a different aspect of salvation in his first sermon. He said, “Save yourselves from this crooked generation!” Following Jesus allows us to escape our corrupt culture. How else would we even be aware of our error except by the Spirit of Christ and his Word? He is our guide to a different way of life. His way is healthy, productive, and purposeful. By following him we free ourselves from futility and make our lives count for the kingdom.

The weight of what is written

When Jesus appeared to the disciples on the road to Emmaus he chose not to reveal his identity by means of his physical appearance. Instead, he explained himself using the Scriptures (Luk 24:27). One would think that the more convincing proof would be to show his face and his wounds. He wanted them to understand him through what was written by Moses and the prophets (Luk 24:44). Jesus was a master of the Scriptures and he wants us to be as well. He wants us to see him in the Bible (Joh 5:39). We have the same Scripture Jesus used to prove himself. Have you studied them? Are you convinced?

He has a name for me

After his resurrection Mary didn’t recognize Jesus until he called her by name. (Joh 20:16) There must have been something in the ring of his voice that resonated with her. Once she heard her name she had full recognition and the memories of their relationship came like a flood. When Jesus returns, he will give each of his followers a new name known only to the two of them. (Rev 2:17) I believe this is a term of endearment. A sign of the close, personal relationship they share. To his followers, Jesus is not just a historical figure, he is a friend with whom they enjoy daily fellowship. Can you hear him calling your name?

Hopelessly hard hearts

The thief crucified next to Jesus began by ridiculing him with the rest of the crowd (Mat 27:44), but in the end the Spirit prevailed. His heart was changed. He confessed that Jesus was Lord when he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” (Luk 23:42) The Soldier in charge of crucifying Jesus was equally helpless against the onslaught of the Spirit. When he saw how Jesus died he said, “Truly this was the son of God.” (Mar 15:39) No matter how hard the heart may appear, it cannot withstand the call of the Spirit. Hopeless cases can turn on a dime when the Spirit moves. Keep praying for the hard hearted!

The herd mentality

Beware of group think. The religious leaders convinced the crowds to demand the crucifixion of Jesus (Luk 23:21). Pilate, though he knew Jesus was innocent, succumbed to the demands of the mob (Mat 27:24). The Soldiers, as a regiment, went above and beyond the call of duty, mocking and torturing Jesus rather than performing their simple but gruesome task (Mar 15:16-19). Each operated in fear of the group. They sensed that their survival depended on the herd. Though they knew Jesus had done nothing worthy of death, none had the courage to stand against the peer pressure. In what areas do I lack courage? How do I succumb to obvious evil in the face of the social norm? Lord, grant me the courage of my convictions.

The betrayer betrayed

When Judas realized his error he went back to the religious leaders seeking to rectify the situation. He found an institution that had used him and now had no more use for him. He said, “I have sinned.” They replied, “That is your problem.” (Mat 27:3-4) For Judas there was no other recourse. He had betrayed his Lord and the system had betrayed him. He hung himself in utter despair. Do not sell your soul to any human institution. They are cold and heartless. They will use you and discard you. Forgiveness and restoration are found in relationships, not religious organizations.

Willing but weak

The disciples could not overcome their sleepiness to stay awake and pray with Jesus for even one hour. Jesus said, “The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” (Mar 14:38) Indeed the apostles continued to struggle to bring their flesh in line with their spirit’s desires. They all fled for their lives when Jesus was arrested. Peter went on to deny that he knew Jesus. Paul confessed that he too was caught up in the struggle of flesh vs. spirit (Rom 7). Only Jesus is qualified to be the sacrificial lamb. The rest of us, even if we had the strength to offer our lives, would die for our own sin. We cannot do what Christ did for us (Rom 10:6-7). That is why we must trust in his work on our behalf.