Tag Archives: Biblical truth

The Danger of Spiritual Immaturity

October 28, 2020 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

At the beginning of this series, I asked if you were “helping or hindering your spiritual journey”. I posed three questions, which now fit nicely with today’s warning on the danger of spiritual immaturity.

First, where are you in your current faith walk? Secondly, what would motivate you to seriously consider the five (5) warnings? And finally, where does Jesus Christ fit in your life today?

It is now time to move these questions from their previous position as the backdrop for this series to the focal point for our exploration of spiritual immaturity. We begin this journey by contrasting it with its opposite–spiritual maturity.

What is spiritual maturity?

As I researched this topic of spiritual maturity, there were varying views and opinions as to its definition. For some it is a process; for others it is a pathway to follow. And still others see spiritual maturity as the goal of the believer’s life. That being the case I offer several views for your consideration.

Commitment to Transformation

Dallas A. Willard, an American philosopher known for his writings on Christian spiritual formation, describes spiritual maturity as taking place “when we are drawn close to a life with Jesus. We, by the grace of God, behave differently because we have been transformed.”

This transformation occurs as believers intentionally build and live their lives as disciples of Jesus Christ in the Kingdom of God. This transformation occurs as believers commit to grow, commit to change, and commit to learn.

Using Willard’s description, spiritual maturity is a process. One that never ends until we reach heaven and are face-to-face with our Savior (1 Cor. 13:12). Using this description, the question I would ask is this. As 21st century believers, do we behave differently?

Building on the Foundation of the Gospel

Ligonier Ministries, founded by the late Dr. R.C. Sproul, exists to proclaim, teach, and defend the holiness of God in all its fullness to as many people as possible. In “Four Essentials of Spiritual Maturity”, author and contributing writer Kent Hughes outlines four key areas needed for spiritual maturity.

While these essentials are directed to pastors, they also outline key responsibilities for believers who desire to be spiritually mature. They include:

1. Christ-focused exposition of the Word—Christ is the source and sustainer of spiritual maturity
2. Cautious “striving” to accurately present the Word—described as “struggling in preaching the gospel mystery”
3. Commitment to the Christian community—”to comprehend with all the saints” (Eph. 3:18-19)
4. Christian maturity demonstrated—the believer is a living testimony of what love and devotion for God should look like

Using Hughes’ description, spiritual maturity is a pathway. One that is to be passionately pursued (2 Tim. 2:15). That pathway includes leading people to Christ. Using this description, the question I would ask is this. As 21st century believers, are we intentional in building our lives on the foundation of God’s Word?

Passion to Persevere

Lastly, I present the viewpoint that spiritual maturity is a goal. The specific goal is the believer’s capacity to persevere. The believer is both able to weather the storms of life while also proclaiming the glory of the Lord.

Oswald in his book, Spiritual Maturity, describes it this way:

Spiritual maturity is not a level of growth Christians achieve but the passion to press on in Christ. As we embrace God’s Providence, the work of the Holy Spirit, the character Christ desires, the terms of discipleship, hardship, and more, we can move from infancy toward the fruitful maturity we were created to enjoy.

Pastor Andy Stanley, senior pastor and founder of North Point Ministries shares a similar viewpoint: “Spiritual maturity is measured in terms of persevering faith not perfect behavior.”

The Apostle Paul also describes spiritual maturity in terms of the early churches’ ability to persevere. Faced with fierce and continuous persecution for their faith, they were told not to “faint” in their work for Christ (2 Cor. 4:1, 14-17; Gal. 6:9; Col. 3:15). That is perhaps the reason the writer of Hebrews included spiritual maturity as important for this group.

Using this description, the question I would ask is this. As 21st century believers, are we able to persevere? While we may not face religious persecution, how we respond to the current state of our world, i.e., health pandemic, economic uncertainty, and civil unrest, can be an indicator of our ability to “hold fast our faith” (Heb. 10:23).

Now is the Time

God needs spiritually mature, 21st century disciples who will represent His Kingdom. These disciples must be willing to proclaim, defend, and teach the gospel of Jesus Christ. Especially in a post-modern world that is hostile to Christianity.

Most importantly, 21st century disciples must show and share the love of Christ–even to those who may hate us (Luke 6:27-36). We no longer can depend only on our pastor to provide outreach to the lost and to the disenfranchised. Neither can we wait for the church’s mercy ministry to provide for the homeless and the impoverished. The “them” is now “us”—our family, our neighbor, and our co-worker.

The physical church is temporarily “ON HOLD” for many of us. Other churches may be operating at a reduced capacity. But God is calling us today to be what He designed us to be—The Church (1 Pet. 2:4-6). As the Master Builder, God places His living stones just where He wants us to be (1 Cor.12:18). Spiritual maturity is not an option—it is a necessity for the world we live in today!

Next week we will explore the “Failure of Spiritual Immaturity”.

Spiritual Maturity

The Danger of Unbelief

October 21, 2020 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

John R. W. Stott (1921 – 2011) is known worldwide as a preacher, evangelist, author, and theologian. He wrote this about unbelief:

Unbelief is not a misfortune to be pitied; it is a sin to be deplored. Its sinfulness lies in the fact that it contradicts the Word of the one true God and thus attributes falsehood to Him.

The second warning listed in the Hebrews letter reflects similar passion regarding the danger of unbelief (Heb. 3:7-4:13). Does it begin with drifting (neglect) and ends with doubting (unbelief)?

The writer of Hebrews frequently used Old Testament quotations and images to support their argument for remaining steadfast in the Christian faith. The author cited historical accounts from the Old Testament to remind the readers of the danger of giving in to outside pressure rather than “holding fast to their faith” (Heb. 10:23).

Unbelief for the Hebrews

In this second warning the author outlines the danger of doubting and disbelieving the Word. He uses the background of the exodus of Israel from Egypt and their experiences in the wilderness to explain their unbelief.

It was not God’s will that Israel remain either in Egypt or in the wilderness. His desire was that the people enter their glorious inheritance in the land of Canaan. But when Israel got to the border of their inheritance they delayed because they doubted the promise of God. Therefore, the people went backward in unbelief instead of forward by faith. They missed their inheritance and died in the wilderness.[1]

The “wilderness” for believers today is this current “season of uncertainty”. Instead of the Promised Land, we are facing nonstop change and upheaval in our daily lives. This is a result of many factors affecting our nation including the current health pandemic, social inequalities, and civil unrest. The fallout from this season of uncertainty is fear, disruptions, loss, and fatigue.

Let’s be honest! Our personal faith is also being challenged. We question, “What is God going to do with all these problems?” We object, “When will God intercede on our behalf?” Emotionally and spiritually, we are tired and need to see a “light at the end” of this long tunnel. Can you imagine what it felt like living in the wilderness for 40 years?

21st Century unbelief

What does unbelief among Christians look like today? Unfortunately, it looks like the Israelites’ unbelief in the wilderness. It resembles the behaviors that resulted in the hardening of their hearts.

- Distrust in God’s power. We murmur and complain. Although we desire our lives to be trouble free, it just isn’t reality. The reality is this–we live in a fallen world (1John 2:17). There will be trials and tribulations. However, Jesus encouraged us by telling us He has overcome the world (John 16:33). We can trust God’s power to handle whatever happens in our lives.

- Dependence on self and others. Scripture warns us “not to be wise in our own eyes” (Prov. 3:7). However, since we distrust God’s power, we tend to seek answers from the world. We foolishly place our trust in human leaders and political agendas. “Instant” access to information through technology makes us believe all our answers can be found on the Internet.

- Departure from the “living God”. God was grieved with Israel during the entire forty years because of their unbelief (Heb. 3:12). God is saddened today as He sees the same thing happening with His followers. Their hearts have become hardened. In addition, the deceitfulness of sin has caused believers to rebel against God. They desire to return to their “Egypt”.

Unbelief left unchecked

The danger of unbelief is “loss”. Not the loss of our salvation. The believer in Christ is completely secure (John 10:29; Rom. 8:31-39; Ep. 2:4-10).

However, when we practice unbelief, we miss out on our inheritance today and must suffer the chastening of God (Heb. 3:12-19).

Unbelief is a thief that robs us of the blessings God has promised–promises that are our today (2 Pet. 1: 4). We lose the peace and joy that can only be found in trusting God (Ps. 16:8-9).

Still the best choice

In our humanity, we might be inclined to depend on our own strength. Amid our trials, we might be tempted to try some “nouveau” spiritual approach. The question we must ask ourselves is, “what can be better than Jesus?”

The writer of Hebrews presented the best case for “choosing Jesus” over returning to Judaism. As we look around at the issues we face, our best option is still Jesus.

Jesus, Son of the Living God, possesses all power on heaven and earth (Matt. 28:18). Jesus is omniscient–knowing all things (1 John 3:20). He is omnipotent–unlimited in power and authority (Daniel 4:35). Jesus is omnipresent–in all places at all times (Jer. 23:23-24).

Most importantly, Jesus loves us and has proven His love by dying for us so that we might have eternal life (John 3:16). He is the Righteous and Just One (Deut. 32:3-4). Jesus is all this and so much more. Jesus the Best and Only Choice for all generations

[1] Hebrews, The Wiersbe Bible Commentary

Spiritual Maturity

Time for analysis

October 7, 2020 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

In my past life as a business consultant, I was engaged to help clients develop strategic plans to accomplish their organization’s mission and business goals. As part of that process we often included an analysis of the “environment” in which the client operated. It was called a situation analysis.

A situation analysis refers to a collection of methods . They are used to analyze an organization’s internal and external environment to understand their capabilities, customers, and competition. These methods of analysis helped to identify not only opportunities but also potential threats to the business. These analyses often served as informative warnings of potential dangers.

The epistle of Hebrews, a letter to Jewish Christians of that day, includes warnings that are much like a business situation analysis to help its readers see potential threats to their spiritual well-being.

The Audience

The writer of this Hebrews’ letter knew the needs of their intended recipients. Unlike the recipients of Paul’s letters, they were not a church (Rom. 1:7; Eph. 1:1; Gal. 1:2). They were a specific group of Jewish Christians–men of some intellectual ability. They had been established for a good many years (Heb. 2:3; 13:7), and had a history of persecution. They should have been mature Christians by this time, capable of teaching others (Heb. 5:11-6:2). Instead they were withdrawn and inward-looking.

The audience was seen as negligent in good deeds (Heb. 13:16). They were sloppy in their approach to attendance at worship service (Heb.10:23-25). They showed evidence of “cooling” in their faith. Most importantly, this group was wavering between Christianity and Judaism. The author of Hebrews needed to rekindle the readers’ commitment to Christ.

Their problem did not involve sin in its most obvious sense. They were not openly and willingly breaking one or several of God’s commandments, like stealing, lying, adultery, or murder. But regardless, they were falling short of the glory of God through wrong attitudes—things that we might consider today as being “matters of the heart.”

The writer of Hebrews’ challenge was to contrast the achievements of Jesus with that of the Old Testament priesthood and sacrificial system.

The Environment

Like the authorship of Hebrews, the exact location of this audience is unknown. There is no opening salutation typically found in New Testament letters. No city is identified to indicate where these Jewish Christians resided.

We do, however, get a hint as to where the author of Hebrews was located. Included in the closing, the writer advises their readers to salute “those that rule over you and all the saints” just as “they of Italy salute you” (Heb. 13:24). Commentaries identify this reference to Italy as possibly pointing to Rome.

Written in Rome (before A.D. 70), Hebrews may provide valuable insight into the “world” these readers may have lived in. It may also help us understand what it meant to be a follower of Jesus Christ during that time.

The early converts to Christianity in Ancient Rome faced many difficulties. The first converts were usually the poor and slaves as they had a great deal to gain from the Christians being successful. If they were caught, they faced death for failing to worship the emperor. It was not uncommon for emperors to turn the people against the Christians when Rome was faced with difficulties. In AD 64, part of Rome was burned down. Emperor Nero blamed the Christians and the people turned on them. Arrests and executions followed.

The Warnings of Hebrew

The warnings of Hebrews have been the focal point of many commentators and biblical scholars. There are many reasons for this intense scrutiny. Most importantly, these warnings emphasize behaviors that seriously damage believers’ faith in Jesus Christ. These warnings are more than indicators of possible problems, or other unpleasant situations but extreme spiritual “dangers”.

Warning1: Danger of neglect (2:1-4)

Warning 2: Danger of unbelief (3:7-4:13)

Warning 3: Danger of spiritual immaturity (5:11-6:20)

Warning 4: Danger of drawing back (10:26-39)

Warning 5: Danger of refusing God (12:25-29)

Comparison with today

This series is intended to help us examine where we are in our individual walk of faith. Are we helping or hindering our journey? Therefore, I will offer “more questions than answers” for our consideration as we move through the book of Hebrews.

We begin with these. First, where are we in our current faith walk? Secondly, what would motivate us to seriously consider the five (5) warnings? And finally, where does Jesus Christ fit in our life today?

Our examination of these questions will act as the backdrop for this study series. It is our hope that at the conclusion we will better understand the current threats to our faith and our spiritual growth. This includes the current 21st century worldview of Jesus Christ and Christianity.

We begin next week with an analysis of the first two warnings–the danger of neglect and the danger of unbelief.

Spiritual Maturity

Spiritual Warnings for 21st Century Living

September 22, 2020 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Lost in Space was an American science fiction television series in the 1960’s. It followed the adventures of the Robinsons, a pioneering family of space colonists who struggle to survive in the depths of space.

When danger was near to the Robinson family, Robbie, their protective robot, would cry out, “Danger”. Similarly, we teach our children to be aware of danger. They call out a warning, “stranger danger” when they feel threatened.

Stranger danger!

Warnings play a huge role in sheltering us from potential harm or danger. Because of the seriousness of the coronavirus pandemic, we carefully heed the medical warnings provided to us by both our local and our state health officials. With the growth of cyber-crimes in our nation, we quickly respond to security warnings by purchasing systems to protect our personal assets. Police warnings of increases in crime incent us to invest in elaborate surveillance and security equipment.

However, do we, with the same diligence, heed spiritual warnings as we move through these fretful times? Are we concerned about the health and well-being of our souls? What about our family’s spiritual well-being? During the next few weeks, we will be using the book of Hebrews to discuss “spiritual danger warnings” in the 21st century.

Opportunities in warnings

The writer of Hebrews gave five (5) warnings to his readers. Although the historical context for this epistle is different than in 2020, the warnings included in Hebrews are still relevant for today.

Warren Wiersbe, noted teacher and biblical scholar had this to share concerning the practical applications that can be found in the book of Hebrews:

Many people have avoided the epistle to the Hebrews and, consequently, have robbed themselves of practical spiritual help. Some have avoided this book because they are afraid of it. The warnings in Hebrews have made them uneasy. Others have avoided this book because they think it is too difficult for the average Bible student. To be sure there are some profound truth in Hebrews, and no preacher or teacher will dare to claim that they know them all! But the general message of the book it’s clear and there is no reason why you and I should not understand and profit from it.

The Apostle Paul wrote, “everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope” (Rom. 15:4). Let’s get ready to dig in!

Spiritual Guidance

Who would you recommend?

September 8, 2020 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

In this new age of consumerism, people are always looking for the best deal. It’s understandable. If we’re going to spend our money, we want to insure we’re getting the greatest value for our buck.

Services such as Angie’s List, Yelp, and Business.com, offer us a way to hedge our bets before spending our money.

The modern consumer thrives on information. Before making a buying decision, customers have long sought out the opinions and experiences of others to inform themselves as to whether a company is creditable or not. Today, this process is quick, easy, and accessible to anyone with a computer and internet connection.

Consumerism and politics

We are rapidly approaching general elections in November. Unfortunately there is no service we can pull up on our computer to help with selection of the best candidates. During this “season” of health pandemics, social crisis, and family challenges, we are in search of individuals who can reverse the problems we’ve experienced in 2020. All the candidates, locally and nationally, claim to have the best “offer”. Who would you recommend?

In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus is presented as an active, compassionate, and obedient Servant who ministers to the physical and spiritual needs of others. Consequently, this gospel moves quickly to His public ministry where He performs many miracles (there are eighteen). Jesus used these miracles to demonstrate not only His power but also His compassion. As I look around at the needs of our city and our nation, service to and compassion for people are characteristics of one who will quickly attend to the problems and trials we face. Such was the case in our study text which is only recorded in Mark’s gospel.

Best qualified

In Mark 7:31-37, Jesus is found in the region of Decapolis by the Sea of Galilee. A man who is both deaf and speech impaired is brought to him. They recommended Jesus as the One best qualified for the task at hand. It isn’t clear whether those seeking Jesus’ help expected healing but they did ask that Jesus “put His hands” on the infirmed man. (v. 32) Sometimes we come to Jesus in our prayers not knowing what to ask. But Jesus, who is omniscient knows exactly what we need (Rom. 8:26-27).

Better than expected

I’m sure the man, unable to hear or speak, was curious as to what was about to happen to him. It is noted in one commentary, that Jesus in preparing the man for his healing used His own form of sign language: And He (Jesus) took him aside from the multitude, and put His fingers in his ears, and He spat and touched his tongue (v. 33). Then Jesus looked to heaven, and sighed, and said to him, “Be opened.” (v. 34) With one command, both impediments were cured. The crowd was astonished.

Although Jesus charged the crowds to say nothing about the miracle, they could not help themselves and in their zeal shared the miracle with this observation: “He has done all things well. He makes both the deaf to hear and the mute to speak” (v. 37). To do things well means to do things “excellently”. (1 Cor. 14:17; Gal. 5:7)

Consumerism, the soul, and Jesus

Unfortunately, consumers, as a rule, aren’t very intentional when it comes to matters of the soul. I don’t know where they go to seek out the opinions and experiences of others to inform themselves. Where do they go to insure their spiritual needs are addressed excellently? Where do they go with their fears and anxieties? Who would you recommend?

As believers, we know one thing is sure. We have a Savior, Jesus Christ, who is more than equipped to handle the challenges we face today and tomorrow (Jude 1:25). He is best qualified to meet our every need—provisionally and spiritually, because “He does all things excellently”.

It is natural for us to expect Jesus “to save us” by doing miracles in our life, like the deaf and dumb man. And HE DOES. But Jesus also wants us to know that He can be trusted with the daily events of our life. Jesus’ grace will provide all we need to manage both our spiritual and temporal needs (Ps. 23:1-3). Why? Because He (Jesus) does all things well! (v. 37)

As we prepare for this day and the days ahead, look to the only One we can recommend to see us through these tumultuous and challenging times. Trust the only One who died for us (John 11:25); who never fails (Is. 55:10-11); who cannot lie (Num. 23:19). Jesus has the power and authority to do “all things” (Matt. 28:18). Jesus does all things well.

Spiritual Endurance

Can You Handle the Truth?

January 14, 2020 ITWMinistries

“…and you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.”

John 8: 31-32 (NRSV)

Can we handle the truth? Especially when that truth is measured against the authority of Scripture and the lordship of Jesus Christ? To walk in biblical truth while living in a postmodern world will be a major challenge for believers as we enter into this second decade of the 21st century.

With all the political rhetoric and social bantering, it is clear that this world is in need of truth. But can we handle it? Behind the news bytes and sound bits, there is an intention movement currently underway to redefine what truth is and what it isn’t. This is nothing new. This inclination to “repackage” the truth comes directly from the father of lies, Satan himself (John 8:44). Be careful how you define truth or you too may fall prey to the subtly of deception. “Did God really say you must not eat any of the fruit in the garden?” (Gen. 3:1, NLT)

In decades past, people could depend on the media to communicate the “truth” with regard to specific issues of the day. Newspapers, magazine publications and newscasters were committed to operate at the highest ethical standards. In addition, people could depend on their local leaders—civic or religious—to offer truth, as they knew best. But over time that has changed. Unfortunately both media and individuals can only offer their own opinions based on personal agendas or corporate bias, leaving individuals still “in search for truth”. Truth is now shaped by social media and image consultants—by the number of “likes”, “retweets” and “followers” one can amass.

What is truth? Truth is defined as that which agrees with reality. The believer’s reality and meaning is grounded in God. That reality began in the Garden of Eden. Created in God’s image, our purpose and destiny is tied to our identity in Him through Christ (Col. 3:3). This reality was sidetracked by sin and replaced with Satan’s counterfeit that placed self on the throne where only Christ was to be seated and exalted. Because of Jesus’ atoning work on the Cross, our sins were forgiven and we are now reconciled back to God (2 Cor. 5:18, 19). When we affirm our faith, we acknowledge that we have died to our old sin nature (Gal. 5:24) and walk in newness of life (Rom. 6:4). We no longer follow the worldview—its influence was negated by the Blood. Our meaning and reality is now realigned with God (2 Cor. 5:15). “For in Him we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:28a).

More than ever before, believers must connect with the only True Source of Truth, Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior (John 14:6). God’s Word and the Spirit of Truth stand ready to silence the lies, myths and fables we might hear (2 Tim. 4:3-4). God is the only source of truth for our lives. Can you handle the truth?

Spiritual Maturity

How to be obedient to God

August 7, 2019 ITWMinistries 1 Comment

For I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God. Acts 20:27 (NKJ)

Our intent in creating this series has been to offer a new perspective on the whole counsel of God that will hopefully increase believers’ confidence in its validity and its value in navigating in the 21^st century. If you’re struggling with obedience and how to be obedient to God, continue reading.

We introduced our series by first discussing the wisdom of God. The “unsearchable” knowledge of God (Rom. 11:33) establishes the foundation for acceptance of the whole counsel of God and for victorious living under “Kingdom Rule”.

We expanded the definition of the whole counsel of God to include not only that which is revealed through His Word and the Holy Spirit, but also extends to His realized purpose and His will in the world and in the believer’s life.

The reliability of God’s counsel is a consequence of who He is and His relationship with believers. God is, by nature, exceedingly good and great! Because of that, God’s counsel can be trusted.

So why do people reject God’s counsel?

When I teach God’s Word, I am surprised at the number of pushbacks and arguments I get from people as I share the whole counsel of God. I see in their eyes and hear in their voices, the inner conflict that God’s Word creates in their life as they attempt to convince me (and justify to themselves) their “difference with the counsel” that is being “revealed”. It is out of this place of discomfort that the Bible and the Holy Spirit is regularly accused of being “intolerant”, “outdated”, and “inaccurate”.

The reason for their “disconnect” is the standard they use to assess the “value or correctness” of God’s counsel. Their “source of counsel” is, in most cases, the world, their flesh, and/or the influence of Satan. Once this is understood, it becomes clear the basis of their discomfort is not the sufficiency of Scripture but the struggle for authority in their life—God’s authority or the current worldview? God’s authority or what makes them happy? God’s authority or Satan’s authority? It is a matter of authority and obedience.

Obedience and the whole counsel of God

I was saved when I was nine years old. I bought the “fire insurance” and wasn’t going to hell. But it was 30 years later that I learned about “lordship” and God’s authority and rule in my life. That required me to change the source of my counsel—no longer the world, my flesh, or Satan—but the whole counsel of God.

My personal journey has led me to believe that people’s disobedience and rejection of God’s counsel usually stems from one or all of the following:

Blinding by Satan. “And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.” 2 Corinthians 4:3-4 (NRS)

Paul explains to the Corinthians the reason why people reject the gospel. The translated meaning of veiled is “to hide or hinder the knowledge of a thing.” And who is the culprit responsible for the veiling? It is Satan. Satan’s agenda is to keep people away from their Creator and His purpose for their lives. And what doesn’t Satan want people to know? “The gospel of the glory of God” realized through the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Jesus has provided freedom from the bondage of sin, a path back to God (reconciled), and access to spiritual blessings prepared for them (Eph. 1:3-5).

Bentness of the Flesh. “Do not love the world or the things in the world. The love of the Father is not in those who love the world; for all that is in the world — the desire of the flesh, the desire of the eyes, the pride in riches — comes not from the Father but from the world. And the world and its desire are passing away, but those who do the will of God live forever. 1 John 2:15-17

As Christians we not only have become new creatures in Christ (2 Cor. 5:17) but we also have been delivered from the penalty and the power of sin. However, until Christ’s return or we transition to be with Him in heaven, we must still deal with the presence of sin, in our unredeemed flesh and by virtue of living in this fallen world.

These two facts require BELIEVERS to continually be aware of those factors that tend to “bend us” toward the “world’s view of life” versus God’s expectations of Christian behavior and purpose. If you have not accepted Christ’s offer of salvation, there is still “room at the Cross” with an opportunity to “change the bentness” of your flesh and the influence of this “falling” world in our lives.

Battle for Truth. “Ever since the creation of the world his eternal power and divine nature, invisible though they are, have been understood and seen through the things he has made. So they are without excuse for though they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their senseless minds were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools. Romans 1:21-22

The battle for truth in the 21^st century is raging. We feel the effects of postmodernism both inside and outside the Church. To exacerbate this dilemma, social media and technology has introduced the ability for individuals and groups to flood the channels with their agendas that spread propaganda, misinformation, and disinformation.

Propaganda is defined as the systematic transmission of information or ideas in order to encourage or instill a particular idea, attitude, or response. Misinformation is erroneous or incorrect information. Misinformation differs from propaganda in that it always refers to something which is not true. Its intent is usually neutral. Disinformation refers to disseminating deliberately false information, with the intention of influencing policies of those who receive it.

John Hopkins Sheridan Libraries

So where is one to go for good counsel? To the only source that has a record of being all wise, reliable, and totally committed to our well-being. That Source is God.

God’s Counsel = LIFE

The whole counsel of God includes some things that are difficult to hear—the fact that we are dead in sin and deserving of God’s wrath (Eph. 2:1–3) and the fact that we cannot save ourselves through works (Eph. 2:8–9). The gospel is a call to faithfulness and holy living (Eph. 1: 4). Believers will face persecution (John 16:33) and likely be considered foolish. But none of these things should dissuade us.

When we accepted God’s lordship and are obedient to His will and His purpose, our life will become richer and fuller—God planned it that way through Jesus Christ who is the living WORD (John 10:10). Accept the full counsel of God as your source of wisdom and direction. God’s counsel is the true path of life (Ps. 16:11).

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Ravi Zacharias – God’s Plan for your life and how to be obedient

Knowing God

God Is His Word!

June 25, 2019 ITWMinistries 1 Comment

“The law of the LORD is perfect.” Ps. 19:7 (NKJV)

People often use the phrase, “good as his word” to assert one’s personal dependability and trustworthiness. Words reflect a person’s true character and show what he or she is about (Matt 12:34; Mark 7:15). This is especially true of God. However, where human words are frail and finite, God’s words are creative, perfect, and powerful. God’s Word reveals much about His nature. God is His Word!

The Word of God refers to Scripture itself. It was Moses who first received the written Word from God. Although written on pillars of stone, The Ten Commandments outlined God’s expectation of man. By obeying them, the Israelite people would be better prepared to live in “right relationship” with God and his fellowman.

In preparing the nation of Israel to enter the Promised Land, God instructed Moses to strongly emphasize adherence to His commands, decrees, and laws (Deut. 6:1-19). These would serve as an abiding written record of God’s person, presence, and ways. The men, specifically, were to “teach and talk” about them in their homes. God’s Word was to not only influence but also shape everything they did—from when they “lied down to sleep at night to when they rose in the morning.”

Different yet all key in revealing God’s nature

In Psalm 19, we see different names that are used for God’s Word such as the law, the statues and the judgments. In each verse, a different set of nouns are used to describe God’s nature revealed in His Word. In using this literary device, the psalmist, highlights the transforming power of God. Through His Word, God converts and makes wise: He rejoices and enlightens the eyes (Eph. 1:18-19). God true character is reflected in the Word He speaks.

The final couplet speaks to the righteous durability of God’s Word—“it endures forever and is true and right.” The Prophet Isaiah rejoiced in the fact that, “The grass withers, the flower fades but the word of God stands forever (Is. 40:8).” God’s Word can even penetrate and judge the thoughts and attitudes of the heart (Hebrews 4:12-13). Just as “there is nothing hidden from the sun’s heat” (Ps. 19:6), there is “nothing in all creation hidden from God’s sight”. God is Eternal Creator, Transformer, Everywhere present, and All-knowing.

Pursuit of God’s Word is to be desired

God’s Word is to be desired more than monetary riches or physical luxuries. Through His Word, God offers “incorruptible” rewards—spiritual discernment and godly wisdom that will provide the knowledge and sensitivities needed to navigate this world.

Ps. 19:11 offers a final declaration as to the essential benefit of God’s Word—“by them [the Word of God] we are warned and in keeping them there is great reward.” God’s Word is the “fail safe” for man’s conscience. It offers truth that is desperately needed in a postmodern world that denies the need for absolute truth and moral standards.

Our 21^st century culture is “imploding” as a result of misinformation and propaganda through intentional abuse of social media thereby making it difficult to differentiate between truth and lies. The acceptance of untruth is so pervasive that a new word was added to the dictionary in 2016 to describe it—post truth. But as believers we are dependent on God, who through His Word, offers the “the way, the truth, and the light.” God cannot lie (Numbers 23:19). Consequently His Word can be trusted (Heb. 6:18). God is His Word!

Spiritual Maturity

In God We Trust-2018

May 1, 2018 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

“Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You. In God (I will praise His word), In God I have put my trust; I will not fear. What can flesh do to me?” Psalm 56:3, 4 (NKJ)

As I prepared to write this week’s WordBytes, I searched the web for topics that were trending in the news—items that would give me a hint of the “heartbeat of the country”. What I discovered was amazing yet not surprising; the trends included “life, conspiracy, hip hop culture, marijuana, motherhood,” and yes, I even found Jesus Christ in the trend. This wasn’t the total list but what my spirit was drawn to was an earlier WordBytes I had written that seemed to offer a response for the current trending topics. Interestingly, this particular WordBytes ranks as the most read in the history of WordBytes. With that, I present the most viable and fail proof option for whatever your concern today—trust in God.

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As Election Day 2016 draws near, I thought it would be appropriate to spend some time reaffirming the true source of our confidence—God. Campaign advertisements continually bombard us via social media, telephone, and television; each candidate promising to serve faithfully and with integrity. How ironic that our discussion on trust should follow our recent series, “In Search of Truth” as we listen to “half-truths” and “outright lies” presented by all political parties on the ballot. Who is one to trust? Our text for today summarizes the best place to put our trust—in God.

The background for today’s Psalm can be found in 1 Samuel 21:8-15, where we are told of David’s escape to Gath, the stronghold of the Philistines, arch enemies of Israel. The Philistines were well acquainted with David for he had killed their champion, Goliath, when he was only a young shepherd boy (1 Sam. 17). Now because of King Saul’s jealousy, this young man runs for fear of his life to a place of even greater peril and sure death. He now stands captured by his worst enemy, the king of the Philistines.

Psalm 56 is identified as a song for the distressed. We would agree that David was in distress. We sometimes describe it as being “between a rock and a hard place.” Like David, we sometimes find ourselves wedged between many rocks and brutal hard places. Sometimes this happens as a result of others, like Saul, and other times it is the result of our own disobedience and waywardness. In those times of distress and fear, we are to call out like David—“In God, I have put my trust.”

Trust (batach) in Hebrew means “bold and confident”. The description means to literally “throw oneself down, extended on the ground, upon his face.” Can you imagine that picture? David, literally throwing himself on the mercy of God, fully confident and bold; defiantly proclaiming, “What can flesh do to me?” Did he recall the many times God intervened on his behalf as King Saul sought to capture and kill him? His eye was not on the source of his fear but on the Deliverer of his soul. David’s spirit was humbled, cast down in full confidence and trust in Almighty God for his life—not the Philistine king.

As you face the many challenges of life that tend to shake the very foundation of your faith:

Put your trust in the One who is able to deliver us from all harm. (Ps. 46:1)

Remember those times that God stepped in to deliver you and brought you to a point of safety. (Ps. 91:1,2)

Exchange your fear for bold confidence. (Ps. 20:7)

Stretch out on “mature” faith, like David, and expect miracles, signs, and wonders. Although we flippantly have inscribed on our coins, “In God we trust”, it’s now time to write upon our hearts the Psalmist’s words, “I have put my trust in God.”

SELAH: Is there something I your life that is causing you great distress? Perhaps your stress is being generated by things you have no control over—the state of the economy, unending political wrangling or social injustices that are currently in news headlines. Maybe it’s your health or the changing needs of your immediate family. Perhaps your anxiety is as a result of your own poor decisions or relational conflicts you must deal with. Regardless of the source, go to God. He cares for you. Declare the following prayer and know in God you can always trust.

God of creation and God of salvation, I put my trust in You. Though the earth may tremble and the mountain be carried into the sea, I put my trust in You. Though life may be hard and the challenges daunting, I put my trust in You. I trust in You and You alone because You are MY GOD and MY FATHER. I am Your child. These things I ask in the powerful name of Jesus Christ.

Eastertide

The Reality of the Resurrection

April 18, 2017 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

“If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable.” 1 Corinthians 15:19 (NKJ)

Christ has risen! (Matt. 28:6) What now? The Disciples and the New Testament Church would now face persecution and even death for their belief in Jesus Christ. If they were to continue the work that Jesus began, they would now need to demonstrate the reality of the resurrection.

The Apostle Paul knew the importance of the resurrection and passionately defended its reality. He shared the magnitude of the resurrection with the church at Corinth by highlighting the risk that would occur if they did not accept it as “fact” and demonstrate its impact in their lives (1 Corinthians 15). This danger still exists for believers in the 21^st century. In verse 14 Paul begins to expound the casualty to Christianity if “Christ is not raised.”

First and foremost, our faith is in vain (v.14). Imagine awakening to the news that Christ’s resurrection did not occur? How would your belief system be affected? In what or who would you place your hope and trust? Second, if Christ is not raised, we as believers have falsely represented God (v.15). Jesus’ resurrection is the cornerstone of God’s plan of eternal salvation for man (Hebrew 5:9). Only God could supernaturally raise Christ from the dead (Acts 2:24; Ep. 1:20). To deny the resurrection would also be denying the power of God. Third and most disturbing, Paul concludes if Christ is not raised, we are “still in our sins” AND our family and friends who have died “have perished” (v. 17). It was for sin that Jesus was manifested (1 John 3:5) and through His resurrection that the power of death was destroyed (Heb. 2:14).

“The resurrection of Jesus showed that Christ’s oblation as the sacrificial lamb was accepted by God, which is the basis for the giving of the Spirit to believers and the forgiveness of sins.” [1]

Finally, our text for today (v. 19) sums up the dilemma that Christians and the world in general would face if there were no resurrection: “If we have hope in Christ only for this life, we are the most miserable people in the world” (NLT). If this life is the total sum of our existence, then Christ would have died in vain and our future prospects would be consigned to the dust from which we were created. Continuity of our existence would be halted with our last breathe.

I question whether we, as believers, fully understand the implications of Christ’s resurrection in the 21^st century. Year after year we proclaim, “Christ is risen!” on Easter Sunday often relegating it to a “social phenomenon” that occurred thousands of years ago. Yes, we’re willing to accept Jesus’ atoning sacrifice and the gift of His Holy Spirit, but at the end of the day, what changes have we implemented in our lives to reflect the “supernatural manifestation” that took place on Resurrection Sunday? The reality of Jesus’ resurrection should make a difference in how we live! Are we living our life as Christ had hoped when He sacrificed His life for ours? Are we doing “greater works” than Christ did, as He stated in John 14:12? Are we living each day joyfully expecting His return? (2 Pet. 3:11-12) NOW is the right time to rededicate our life to Christ and boldly demonstrate the reality of His resurrection. Let our hallelujah ring out to witness that Christ is raised!

SELAH: Imagine living today without the expectation of a future resurrection. Journal the emotions you feel as you consider this ending for your life then praise God for the reality of Jesus’ resurrection.

[1] Baker’s Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology