Tag Archives: spiritual maturity

A Message for Fearful Times

January 13, 2021 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Historical trauma

Last week we witnessed in our Capitol something that has left us breathless. We’ve seen many horrible events in the tapestry of our nation’s history during the past century—wars, assassinations, and terrorist attacks. January 6^th, 2021 can now be added to that infamous list.

There is no need to add to the rhetoric that now fill the airwaves of the world and every corner of cyberspace. The reality that our nation’s democracy is under siege is evident. The trauma and fear associated with that day linger on after experiencing the event “real time” on our screens. I daily ask Jesus to remove those terrifying images from my brain.

But I come today with a message of encouragement and hope from the God who sees and Who is in complete control of what appears to be “out of control.”

Keep Your Eye of God

It is important during these troubling times to keep our eyes on the Lord. As believers, we are aware that in this world we will have tribulation and trials (John 16:33). But we are also reminded to take heart because Jesus has overcome the world. One writer reminded me, “it is the tension between ‘overcome’ and ‘taking heart’ that cause us problems.”

Our trust in the Lord is not the result of positive thinking or some new age approach to stress management. Brian Morykno with Renovaré encourages believers during fearful times to follow King David’s example of magnification.

Imagine David, with the war cry of enemies rising all around, settled of soul and unafraid. How was that possible? It’s not that David was out of touch with reality; he was in touch with it. David understood magnification. He knew that what we dwell upon becomes large in our spiritual field of vision. And David dwelled upon God (Ps. 95:3-5).

Our reality is this. God is sovereign and is moving forward with His plan of salvation. God is not the cause of riots and rebellions like we experienced last week. Such events come from “heart issue” of sinful men (James 3:16-18) and the work of Satan (Eph. 6:12; John 10:10).

For where there is envy and selfish ambition, there will also be disorder and wickedness of every kind. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without a trace of partiality or hypocrisy. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace for those who make peace.

A Plan for These Times

To help us move through these times, I offer this, three (3) prong approach to help us navigate through these difficult times.

Prayer. This should be our first response to the troubles we face. We are told to pray without ceasing (1 Thess. 5:17). The reason for this mandate is because our prayers connect us directly to God—the Power Source who can resolve our dilemma. The “only wise God” (Rom. 16:27) is there to guide and direct our steps, comfort our heart, and ease our stress (Phil. 4:6-7).

Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. (Romans 12:12)

Practice the Presence of God. We are never alone regardless of the situation we face. He alone can make good on His promise that He will “never leave nor forsake us” (Gen. 28:15). He is ever-present. Regardless of external appearances, God is with us even amid our trouble.

Where can I go from your spirit? Or where can I flee from your presence?

If I ascend to heaven, you are there; if I make my bed in Sheol, you are there. (Ps. 139:7-8)

Praise. Yes, I said praise. Why? Because it is the quickest way to experience the presence of God (Ps. 22:3). Ruth Meyer, author of the book, 31 Days of Praise, offers this insight on the power of praise.

As you praise and pray, you make your circumstances and your life a test tube that demonstrates the existence of a personal God, a God who is present and involved and who controls the natural Universe. It turns your attention to spiritual and eternal values versus the pleasures and success mentality of our age, which resists all pain and discomfort and delay.

A Message for Fearful Times

As we continue our walk of faith, we will be faced with trials. Although these may be difficult, we have the blessed assurance that we are not in these things alone. Neither are we powerless.

Political and social upheaval will continue as long as man leans on his own understanding (Prov. 3:5-7). I don’t know how these tumultuous times will end but I do know that God has the final word (Ps. 119:89-91). God is and will continue to be the Creator and Sustainer of all things (Col. 1:16).

Our Faith Walk

What I Learned in 2020

January 6, 2021 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

What’s Different

In the past, my annual reflections on “what I learned” were typical for believers in Christ. They were my experiences and observations as I progressed on my spiritual journey. They included such things as how I experienced God’s goodness and what I would work harder on in the new year. I always finished the year hoping I had deepened my relationship with Him.

So what’s different this year? Everything is different! Why? Because 2020 was very different. As my pastor said a few weeks ago, “There is no such thing as a ‘new normal’. There is no normal. Everything is dynamic.” Life as we knew it has changed. We now live in a constant state of change.

What I learned in 2020 requires that I go deeper than I normally would in order to fully express the range of emotions and responses to everything that has been happening around us. It’s been said “life will make you bitter or better”. With 2020, the jury is still out.

2020 Responses: We Long for Many Things

Most responses to 2020 have ranged from anger (dumpster burnings of 2020 in effigy) to appreciation for the opportunities presented as a result of the pandemic Stay at Home directives.

The variance in these responses may stem from our ability to accept, absorb, or assimilate the changes that are taking place.

Some people respond by retaliating for what they see as a loss of control or threat to their personal freedom. Remember the initial responses to the pandemic? The battle over wearing masks? We are no longer able to “do what we want to do” without considering the impact of our choices on others.

We now more fully understand “our connectedness” and dependence on each other. We will need each other to successfully navigate the world as it is in “a state of becoming”. There is a saying that, “You can’t be a winner in a losing organization.” That statement is never more true than right now.

A Year of Grieving

2020 has also given us much to grieve over. The loss of life due to the pandemic is unbelievable. I pray that we never become comfortable with the rising number of deaths within our nation and the world. So complacent that we forget that each “number” represents a person, a family, a life no longer present with us.

Let us also continue to pray and support those who serve during these horrific times. The medical professionals, public employees, and service providers who daily risk their lives for us.

A Year without Relationship

I think we grieve the most over our “disrupted relationships”. We desperately miss being with our families and friends. No hugs. No kisses. We’re left with Zoom calls, online worship, and elbow bumps, if we’re lucky.

This longing to be with others is evidenced by our nation’s inability to deal effectively with the coronavirus. We desire to be with one another so much that we are willing to literally die for it (or cause someone else to die).

While we desire to be with family and friends, our relationship with others has suffered in 2020. We have separated ourselves into tribes based on our political views and class distinctions. We have set aside the basics we learned in kindergarten–play nice and share. We are at war with each other! But why? Over what? There will be no winners in the end—-only pain, anger, and resentment.

This is unfortunate especially since we so desperately need each other during these tumultuous times. It is now that we need “to put on bowels of mercy, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering…and love” (Col. 3:12-14).

So what have I learned?

God is faithful (Deut. 7:9; Heb. 10:23) and is able to see us through whatever problems we face. Actually that isn’t something new I’ve learned. However, 2020 revealed God’s faithfulness in a new context.

That context included a deadly pandemic, social injustice, economic upheaval, and civil unrest. 2020 was like a dystopia movie. A dystoria is an imagined place or state in which everything is bad, typically a totalitarian or environmentally degraded one.

But God was everything He said He would be. He was my provider (Phil. 4:19). He was my protector (Ps. 46:1-3). Jesus was my peace–something we still need in 2021. God’s presence was my comfort and assurance through all the madness of 2020.

You and I are living proof of God’s faithfulness in that we now stand on the other side of 2020. And how did we get here? How did we get to the other side? God brought us through (Is. 43:2).

God’s Plan of Salvation

There is so much I have learned (and continue to learn from 2020). But the most important thing I’ve learned is to see life through the reality of God and His plan of salvation.

God is purposefully executing His plan of salvation for mankind. Eternal God is sovereignly exercising His purpose in the midst of our history. Regardless of today’s current events or who is currently in leadership, they must all defer to the rule and reign of God (Daniel 2:21).

God’s plan for mankind didn’t end with the arrival of Jesus Christ. God is still manifesting His plan and we are part of that plan right now. It is our privilege to join God as He manifests His purpose in the world.

So what have you learned in 2020? I can’t wait to hear from you.

Spiritual Maturity

Holiday Season 2020

November 24, 2020 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Symbols of the holiday season are everywhere. We are ready for that golden-brown turkey, giblet dressing and cranberry sauce. Christmas decorations appear at the mall, at our favorite grocery store, and in our neighborhoods.

Most importantly, the holidays are about enjoying relationships. Friends and family gather to share stories and to “love on each other.” Everyone is invited to come and enjoy time together. However, this year relationships will feel different. Holiday season 2020, specifically, will be very different in the midst of the pandemic.

This season will be different

As the number of people infected with the virus increase, our nation struggles to find ways to “fatten the curve”. How do you do that during the holidays? We are warned to wear our masks, practice social isolation—”stay at home” and exercise social distancing—”stay apart”.

The holiday season is most often depicted by images of merriment and joy. However, this year those images have been replaced with news broadcasts showing long lines to food pantries and food giveaways. The financial impact of the pandemic has become the face of poverty. Joblessness, hunger, and homelessness are new experiences for many who have previously lived comfortably. To our shame, it is far too familiar for others.

My favorite representation of Thanksgiving is the plenteous cornucopia, bursting forth with ripened fruit from its wide and ample opening. It is this image that has caused me to evaluate my own personal fruitfulness. Especially during this “season of COVID-19”. If I am “rooted and built up in Him” (Col. 2:7), am I bringing forth fruit pleasing to Him? Am I fruitful?

A season for reflection

Fruit is the product of fruitfulness. It is used metaphorically of work or deeds (Eph. 2:10; Phil. 1:11; 2 Pet. 1:8). While works are evidence of Christian activity, it does not always tell the whole story. Jesus’ teachings often encouraged listeners to look beyond what they could see with their physical eyes and to examine the motives and intentions behind the deeds (Matthew 7:16-20).

You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thorn bushes or figs from thistles? Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Therefore, by their fruits you will know them.

Fruitfulness is not “busyness for the Lord” but “transformed living” resulting in the mind of Christ (Phil. 2:5). Fruitfulness reflects the heart and mind of our beloved Lord and Savior, in whose image we are to be daily conformed (2 Cor. 3:18).

A season for fruitfulness

God has placed us in this historic moment to reflect the heart and mind of Christ. We were created for such a time as this (Esther 4:14). It is our responsibility to align ourselves with God’s purpose and perform that which He has given us to do.

- Am I doing all I can to share the grace and love of Jesus with those in need?
- How can I demonstrate Jesus’ compassion during this season of COVID?
- How can I personally help others who are “weary and hopeless”?

We can be Jesus’ eyes that see the needs of others. We can be Jesus’ hands that move beyond sympathy to action. As Jesus’ disciples, let us no longer live for ourselves but live for Him who saved us (2 Cor. 5:15). God has “seeded” us into history to be fruitful. It is here we are to take root, grow, and be fruitful.

Discovering our fruitfulness

This holiday season will look and feel very different in the midst of the pandemic. Let us do our part to make it the beginning of something better. Something that lasts beyond the holiday season. Let it be the beginning of REAL LOVE for God and for others, even our enemies. Amid the pandemic, let us create a world that honors God, that celebrates Jesus, and that brings real “comfort and joy”.

Spiritual Maturity

God is still speaking

November 18, 2020 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

E.F. Hutton was one of the most respected financial firms in the United States during the latter part of the 20th century. It was known for being cutting edge and innovative including it’s iconic marketing campaigns. The slogan “when E.F. Hutton talks, people listen,” became a cultural touchstone. It is even more important for believers that when God speaks, we listen!

The writer of Hebrews opens their letter with the clear declaration that although God spoke to man in the past through His prophets, He was changing His method of communications. God was doing a new thing. God would now speak through His Son, Jesus Christ.

This new way was the gospel message of Jesus Christ. Jesus offered a more excellent, effectual, and eternal way of providing salvation to mankind. In the progression of Hebrews, the writer proves that Jesus is superior to angels, a High Priest superior to Melchizedek, and the Mediator of a superior covenant (The New Covenant).

Warnings along the way

The warnings through Hebrews 10 attempted to address the spiritual erosion of the believers in receipt of this letter. Their behaviors constituted real dangers that could seriously damage their ability to serve and remain faithful to Christianity. They included negligence, unbelief, spiritual immaturity, and drawing back.

Their actions, once viewed as exemplary, were now approaching indifference. This resulted in several reminders to the readers concerning their ministry responsibilities in outreach (Heb. 13:1-2, 16), teaching (Heb. 5:11-13), and worship (Heb. 10:25).

Are we experiencing warnings along our Christian walk? Have we become lax in our commitment to our spiritual giftedness? Are we sloppy in our worship and praise? Are we negligent in our service to the Lord, regardless of how small or large it might be? Has our witness become “silent” for fear of rejection or reprisals? Are we indifferent to the needs of our community and fellow man?

A Call to Faithfulness and Endurance

In Hebrews 11 the writer exhorts their readers to faithfulness and endurance. They connect with their audience by sharing the experience of the heroes of Old Testament history.

The writer first spends time sharing the importance of faith. Its value and worth can be summarized in that faith is:(1) based on confident convictions, (2) certainty about unseen hopes and realities, and (3) is honorable, in that the saints were commended for it. (Heb. 11:1-2)

Since the readers are presented with “so great a cloud of witnesses” who demonstrated faith and endurance, they can also be expected to do the same (Heb. 12:1).

The final warning

The author concludes the basic argument of this epistle (the excellency of Jesus Christ) with a final admonition and warning (Heb. 12:25-29). The warning points to the danger of refusing God.

This final warning cautions against apostasy or behaviors which may lead in that direction. This was discussed in earlier warnings to the readers who were in danger of “falling away” (Heb. 6:4-8) and “drawing back” (Heb. 26-39). Although they had initially accepted the gospel of Jesus Christ, they were still in danger of “turning away” (apostrepha) from or rejecting God’s new way of relating to His people.

We are receiving a kingdom

The author, knowing the tendency of their readers to spiritual weakness, uses Old Testament examples and contrasts to warn their readers to “see to it that they do not refuse Him who speaks” (v. 25). The warning is this. If the Israelites did not escape God’s wrath as He spoke on earth, how much worse the punishment would be as God speaks from heaven? (Heb. 12:25)

God sent His Son Jesus to speak for Him (Heb. 1:2). More importantly, Jesus would provide a “more excellent way” to God through His substitutional death and sacrifice. The power of sin would finally be broken. Jewish sacrifices and offerings were temporary. They could never offer the promises and privileges of the Gospel. Jesus offered the power of heaven and the permanence of eternity in Mt. Zion (Heb. 12:26-27).

The writer closes this warning with a message of hope. The message is this–believers were “receiving a kingdom which could not be shaken” (Heb. 12:28). The verb receiving is in present tense meaning the action is a “fact of reality occurring in actual time”, historically and remaining even into the present. This meant believers were part of God’s kingdom that would never change and were partakers of His generous grace (Heb. 3:14).

Within this new community “believers are to serve God with reverence and godly fear” (CSB, awe). A believer who departs from God’s magnificent privileges invites God’s retribution (Heb. 12:29; Heb. 10:29).

The Message of Hebrew for the 21st Century

The warnings contained in Hebrews are also appropriate for believers today. Especially if we desire to remain faithful to the gospel and hope to persevere during this period of history when our faith is constantly under fire.

There are many factors which threaten our ability to “hold fast” our profession of faith (Heb. 10:23). Many are “heart-issues”.

- The hardened heart. Our refusal to accept the teaching and guidance of God’s Word. “Today, when you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion.” (Heb. 3:15)

- The darkened heart. Our continuance in sinful behavior although delivered by Jesus Christ. “If we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of truth, there remains no more sacrifice for sin.” (Heb. 10:26)

- The misguided heart. Our lack of wisdom and truth needed to discern right from wrong. “Take care, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God. But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.” (Heb. 3:12-13)

- The divided heart. Our lack of faithfulness resulting in the choice of the world over God. “Do not be led away by diverse and strange teachings; for it is well that the heart be strengthened by grace, not by foods, which have not benefited their adherents.” (Heb. 13:9)

Be not discouraged by the admonitions of Hebrews. Its writer has also included many promises for believers that desire Christ and choose to serve in the kingdom of God. These promises are built on the excellency of Jesus Christ–the same yesterday, today, and forever (Heb. 13:8). They are the “more excellent way” (Heb. 5:9; 6:19; 7:19; 7:22; 8:1-2,10). God is still speaking. Are we listening?

Spiritual Maturity

Making the Right Choice

November 11, 2020 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

The warnings included in the letter of Hebrews were written to believers who were being tempted to return to the Jewish religion and traditions. In their actions, they were not only choosing Judaism but in their choosing they were also rejecting the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Such is the case in all decisions we make. When we say “yes” to one thing we simultaneously are saying “no” to its alternatives. In addition, with each decision there are consequences. Good or bad. Right or wrong. Regardless, there are consequences.

Such is the case with this fourth warning. The choice to return to Judaism contained dangerous consequences which the author attempts to convey in this fourth exhortation.

Danger! Danger!

The writer of Hebrews has been diligent to warn of the dangerous behaviors being exhibited by the readers of this letter. Behaviors that are leading to spiritual erosion. They include neglect, unbelief, and spiritual immaturity.

Hebrews 10:26-39 contains the fourth warning to the readers of this critical epistle. This exhortation deals specifically with the “danger of drawing back”.

The writer continues this serious discussion which first began in Hebrews 6:4-8 with the danger of “falling away” (from Christianity).[1] This verb is found only here in the New Testament. The writer is picturing people who have been numbered among the followers of Christ but now leave that company.

Dangerous behaviors and consequences

The behaviors and consequences of “falling away” and “drawing back” are a real and present danger to believers. We are to take these warnings seriously. They highlight our need to remain steadfast and faithful (Heb. 10:38).

Behaviors and consequences (are)

Hebrews 6:4-8

“Falling away”

Hebrews 10:26-39

“Drawing back”

Intentional

“with knowledge”

“Those who have were once enlightened, who tasted…who shared” (vv. 4 and 5)

“If we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of truth” (v. 26)

“Recall the former days…after you were enlightened” (v. 32)

Irreversible

“unable to restore”

“It is impossible to renew to repentance” (v. 4)

“no longer remains a sacrifice for sins” (v. 26)

Irreverent

“of God’s grace and Jesus’ sacrifice”

“They are recrucifying the Son of God and holding Him up in contempt” (v. 6)

“a certain fearful expectation of judgment and fiery indignation” (v. 27)

“Trampled the Son of God…the blood counted a common thing…insulted the Spirit of grace.” (v.29)

Apostasy by any other name

The writer’s admonition begins with calling out the willful sin of the readers (Heb. 10:26). Our sins are often the result of our deliberate choice to impose our desire over God’s leadership (James 1:13-15).

This warning deals with the sin of apostasy, an intentional falling away, or defection. Apostates are those who move toward Christ, hear and understand his gospel, and are on the verge of saving belief, but then rebel and turn away. This warning against apostasy is one of the most serious warnings in all of scripture.[2]

The fourth warning is contained in the final verses of this chapter (Hebrews 10:38-39).

Now the just shall live by faith; But if anyone draws back, My soul has no pleasure in him. But we are not of those who draw back to perdition, but of those who believe to the saving of the soul.

“The just shall live by faith” is a quotation from Habakkuk 2:1-4. Who are the “just”? The just (RSV, my righteous one) in this passage is the person God accepts as righteous who will live by faith. In this verse, the writer is drawing attention to the fact that faith and drawing back are opposed to each other.

To “draw back” means to withdraw self or to shrink from declaring. It is clear that God is not pleased with the one who draws back (Heb. 10:38). It is important for believers to go forward in the path of faith. To draw back offers the worst consequence–perdition which in some translations is interpreted to mean destruction. The best choice is to persevere in our faith and be saved.

21st Century Danger

We continually make choices. Some are simple. Others may be more complex. As we make our choices, we, as believers, must also be mindful of potential consequences. This is especially true of those that affect our spirit man and our walk of faith. Are we making decisions that cause us to “draw back”? How are we to respond?

We are to remember when we first came to faith and the gratitude we exhibited in the gift of salvation (Heb. 10:32). We boldly witnessed the goodness and greatness of God. We eagerly served and engaged in God’s work (Heb. 10:33).

It is important to know “that we have a better and an enduring possession in heaven” (Heb. 10:34). We should include in our daily routine the reading of Scripture that reminds us of our eternal rewards and destination (Eph. 1:13-14).

Let us refuse to “cast away our confidence” (Heb. 10:35). To “cast away” conveys the thought of a reckless rejection of what is valuable. Only Jesus Christ holds the pearl of great price (Matt. 13:45-46).

Through Jesus, we have received all spiritual blessings (Ep. 1:3) and great and precious promises (2 Pet. 1:4). These enable us to endure struggles, reproaches, and tribulations (Heb. 10:32-33). Because of this, believers can boldly proclaim, “We do not draw back to prediction but are of those who believe to the saving of the soul”. (v. 39)

[1] Such cannot be brought back to repentance. Notice that he does not say cannot be forgiven or cannot be restored to salvation or the like. It is repentance that is in mind, and the writer says that it is impossible for these people to repent. This might mean that the repentance that involves leaving a whole way of life to embrace the Christian way is unique. It cannot be repeated. There is no putting the clock back.

[2] The MacArthur Study Bible

Spiritual Maturity

A Call to Maturity

November 4, 2020 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Last week we introduced spiritual maturity as a process, a pathway, or a goal. Regardless of the means of achieving spiritual maturity, the result is to be a believer whose faith is founded on the Gospel and who is committed to ongoing growth (transformation).

Faith and growth work together to develop spiritual maturity in the believer which is critical in moving God’s kingdom forward. Therein lies the urgency for a call to maturity by the writer of Hebrews.

Dull of hearing

It has been said that to make progress on a bike, you must keep moving forward. There is no reversal nor standing still. This is a good analogy in describing the dilemma the author of Hebrews faced.

Although these believers had been trained in the “elementary truths of God’s Word” (NIV, Heb. 5:12), they were not moving forward “on to maturity” (Heb. 6:1). They had become “dull of hearing” (Heb. 5:11).

Hearing is difficult, not only for this audience but also for any audience. Interestingly, the verb “to hear” (akouo) provides the root for the verb that means “to obey” (hypakouo) (Heb. 5:9; 13:17). There could be any number of reasons why this group had become “dull of hearing”.

Distractions, fear of persecution, or loss in confidence of their leaders. The writer of this letter does not say. However, we do know the outcome.

The readers had apparently pulled back from their bold witness to outsiders and from exhorting and encouraging one another. Through lack of use, faculties grow dull and the members regress to a former condition of immaturity.[1]

The writer’s dilemma

In Hebrews 5:11-6:3, the writer contrasts immaturity with maturity. They use familiar “educational language” of that day to describe the believers’ lack of progress. The Apostle Paul uses similar language in 1 Cor. 3:1-3. “Milk” and “solid food” were common terms for referring to levels of educational development. Here “milk” is an image of the “elementary truths of the God’s Word” (v. 12), while “solid food” is the “word of righteousness” (v. 13) which is the believer’s capacity to distinguish between good and evil (v.14).

The writer’s dilemma is this. Although these believers have previously received adequate teaching for their ministry work and purpose (Heb. 6:1-2), their failure to grow spiritually hindered them from understanding more complex teachings about Jesus Christ. Specifically, Jesus’ excellency as High Priest. A more excellent priesthood than the order of Melchizedek (Heb. 5:9; 6:20).

Immaturity leads to failure

The exhortations found in Hebrews are appropriate for us today. Distractions and lack of spiritual discipline keep us stuck in the same position as when we first came to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.

Statistics support the fact that believers today spend little to no time on spiritual formation. It should not be surprising that these behaviors have resulted in believers who are “unskilled in the word” (v. 13) and churches who feel ill equipped to lead new generations to Christ.

Our failure to be spiritually mature results in our inability to accomplish God’s purpose for our life and for His Kingdom. These include:

The ability to persevere. Lack of maturity impairs our ability to remain faithful to God’s purpose for our life. We are created specifically for God’s “good work” (Eph. 2:10). This is true whether we work in ministry or in the secular world. Our “stick-to-it-ness” is critical as we live in a world hostile to Jesus.

The ability to discern. When we become “sluggish” and “dull of hearing”, we risk becoming disobedient. In a postmodern world, it is difficult to distinguish between what is right and what is wrong (Is. 5:20-24; 2 Tim. 3:1, 3b, 5). Unable to discern, we become targets for Satan’s deception. “To think between vice and virtue is a line clear and unmistakable is to embrace an illusion.”[2]

The ability to witness. We have a clear mandate from Jesus to witness to a dying world (Matt. 28:19-20). It would be impossible for believers to look around our world and not acknowledge that “the fields are ripe and ready for harvest” (John 4:35). An informed and bold witness is needed as much in the 21st century as it was in the 1st: “Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). We are in a battle for the souls of men.

Go on to maturity

When we became Christians, we received everything we needed for life and godliness through the knowledge of God who called us to glory and virtue (2 Pet. 1:3). It is our responsibility to build upon the basics of that faith and move forward to maturity.

The Apostle Peter directs us to make every effort (with all diligence) to supplement our faith with virtue, knowledge, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, and love.” (2 Pet. 1:4-8)

Being effective and fruitful in the knowledge of the Lord Jesus is the essence of spiritual maturity. God is our resource, and all growth comes by grace through Him, but we are responsible to “go on to maturity” (Heb. 6:1).

[1] Letter to the Hebrews, Fred B. Craddock

[2] Ibid.

Spiritual Maturity

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 Neglect

October 14, 2020 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

When we began this series, we expressed the “need to heed” warnings in our lives. This is especially true of spiritual warnings. In the book of Hebrews, the author shares with a group of believers five (5) spiritual warnings he saw emerging within their community. These warnings represented dangers that would ultimately end their faith walk, their witness, and their work.

These five spiritual warnings are still relevant in the 21st century. Because of its relevance, we share the first of these warnings–the danger of neglect.

What is this thing called neglect?

Neglect is described as the state or fact of being uncared for. Its origin is from two Latin verbs meaning ‘not’ + ‘choose’. The Jewish Christians were considering to “not choose” Jesus. They were at risk of “drifting away” (Heb. 2:1).

In the opening verses of chapter 2, the writer shares with the audience several points to consider before returning to Judaism. Rejecting the gospel would have definite spiritual consequences.

Pay Attention!

The readers were urged “to heed” to what they have heard. In the past God communicated through the angels. God’s Son Jesus is now elevated far above the angels to reveal His message of truth and redemption. If the Jewish Christians respected the angels before, they should be even more attentive to Jesus (Heb. 2:2). The Message conveys this thought: “If the old message delivered by the angels was valid and nobody got away with anything, do you think we can risk neglecting this latest message, this magnificent salvation?”

Since Jesus Christ is much better than the angels and has received by inheritance a more excellent Name than they (the angels)–since He is both essentially and officially inconceivably superior to these heavenly messengers, His message has paramount claim on our attention, belief, and obedience.[1]

The writer of Hebrews wanted his reader to fully understand the consequence of their behavior. By rejecting the gospel, they would be “storing up” for themselves the wrath of God: “How shall they escape?” (Heb. 2:3)

Neglect in the 21st century

Today as I look around at our current world, I wonder if we too are at risk of drifting way. During the current health pandemic and social upheaval, conversations about “our belief and obedience to Jesus” are, unfortunately, becoming rare. This is especially true among the generations that will follow the Millennials.

It appears that we, as a nation specifically, are “not choosing” Jesus Christ. And while the Jewish Christians were in danger of returning to Judaism, what options are people, including Christians, choosing?

What does neglect look like in the 21st century? A well-known Bible scholar and author, highly regarded within both Christian and Jewish academia, gave the following predictions as to how the world would look if Christianity “drifted away.” We warn you the words shared are very graphic and disturbing.

Have nothing to do with such people. They are the kind who worm their way into homes and gain control over gullible women, who are loaded down with sins and are swayed by all kinds of evil desires, always learning but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth…these teachers oppose the truth. They are men of depraved minds, who, as far as the faith is concerned, are rejected. But they will not get far because, as in the case of those men, their folly will be clear to everyone. [2]

Better Choice

We can learn from the warnings in Hebrews and find new ground on which to stand fast in our faith. (Rom. 15:4) We can avoid the danger of neglect by being intentional in our thinking and our actions.

First and foremost, it is important that we value the gift that we have received as a result of God’s grace (Eph. 1:3-14). We deserved to die for our sins which separated us from our Creator. Jesus reconciled us back to God (2 Cor. 5:19). Having tasted the goodness, the greatness, and the generosity of God through Jesus Christ, how could we ever want to return to our old way of living? (1 Pet. 2:2-3).

Secondarily, we must repent and return to Christ. Especially if we have begun “to drift” to other options the world would offer. The Apostle Paul shared with the church at Colosse a similar message concerning the sufficiency of Christ over other things this world may offer (Col. 2:6-10). In Christ we have everything we need.

Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ. For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily; and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.

Lastly, we must listen as God speaks to us through His Son and in His Word. Be protective of your time and intimacy with Jesus. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you discern those things that compete for your attention and your time (Matt. 6:33). Through the practice of spiritual disciplines such as prayer, meditation, and journaling, we can better recognize Jesus’ voice over the noise of the world (John 10:27).

Pay close attention lest you too drift away. Beware the danger of neglect. Next week, we will focus on the second warning in Hebrews, the danger of unbelief.

[1] Dr. Arthur W. Pink, An Exposition of Hebrews

[2] 2 Timothy 3:1-9

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

God is speaking

September 29, 2020 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

The epistle of Hebrews opens with a grandiose statement expressing how eternal God chose to communicate with man (Heb.1:1). It sets the stage in teaching the Hebrews why following Jesus Christ was the best choice versus Judaism. The old ways of communicating were over. Jesus Christ was the new and better way to convey the mind and the will of God.

God spoke in the Old Testament

When did God speak? God spoke at sundry times (interpreted as “several parts”). God spoke as was fitting for that particular Old Testament dispensation or administration of His purpose.

In the opening verse, the writer of Hebrews explains how God communicated to men in the Old Testament. God used the prophets. These men were chosen and qualified by God. No man took that honor to himself unless called by God.

How did God speak? God spoke in divers manners. It was God’s choosing as to the way He would communicate His mind to His prophets. Sometimes God chose to speak through the entrance of his Spirit (Ezek. 2:2), in visions or dreams (Daniel 7:1-14)–even an audible voice. God even chose to use legal characters under his own hand as when he wrote the Ten Commandments on the tablet of stone.

God Himself gave an account of His different ways to communicate with His prophets in Numbers 12:6-8:

Then He said, “Hear now My words: If there is a prophet among you, I, the LORD, make Myself known to him in a vision; I speak to him in a dream. Not so with My servant Moses; He is faithful in all My house. I speak with him face to face, Even plainly, and not in dark sayings; And he sees the form of the LORD…”

And who did God speak to? God spoke to the fathers (generator or male ancestors). They were Old Testament saints who were living within God’s specific administration during their lifetime. God favored and honored them with more understanding and insight as to who He was. These saints included the patriarchs–Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Others are listed in the “Faith Hall of Fame.” (Hebrews 11)

God speaks through Jesus

God has spoken in these last days to us by His Son (Heb. 1:2). He has appointed Jesus heir of all things. No more prophets or priests. With Jesus’ arrival, God has chosen a better way to not only save man but also, a better way to communicate with man.

Because of Jesus’ sacrificial death, man is now “acceptable in the Beloved” (Eph. 1:6) and “reconciled to God” (Col. 1:19-20). In our new position in Christ, we regain access to the Father, just as we had in the Garden of Eden. We can come “boldly to the throne of grace that we may obtain mercy” (Heb. 4:16) without the need of mediators like the prophets or priests.

Last days, in this text, could be interpreted as either the end to following Judaism by the Hebrews or the end of time as we know it. While there are several views as to when the last days began, we know that Jesus is Alpha and Omega (Rev.1:8).

Barriers to hearing God speak

Barriers to hearing God speak can be either external or internal.

Externally we are confronted by the “noise” of the 21st century. The challenges and stresses of everyday living battle for both our time and our attention. With the advent of the coronavirus, our homes are the new marketplace for live streaming, social media platforms and video gaming. Technology and innovation are our new distractions.

Internally, we have developed habits of behavior that often hinder our ability to hear God speak. These include busyness, unbelief, and sin. For some of us, COVID-19 has interrupted our ability to “assemble together” (Heb. 10:25). This adds to our difficulty in hearing God clearly.

Ears to hear

Be assured, God continues to speak today! “Are we listening?” As we begin this study in Hebrews with its spiritual warnings for 21st century living, let us pray for ears to hear. Why?

Because of the excellence and superiority of Jesus Christ. Having received the gospel of salvation, we, like the Hebrews, “ought to give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard (Heb. 2:1).