A FARMER'S CHRISTMAS TALE

A FARMER’S CHRISTMAS TALE

Thursday, December 31, 2015

Dear fellow travelers,

I can never let this week pass without again airing this old favorite illustrative story. Every time I read or hear it and consider the truth recorded in Philippians it brings tears to my eyes. Be blessed as you read. Bless others by sharing copies.

To serve Him all our days,

Ed

  There was a farmer that didn’t believe in God, and was quite outspoken about religion, Easter, and Christmas. His wife, a believer, raised their children to be God-fearing. The man and his spouse loved each other dearly with sacrificial devotion, but there was always what he deemed “The Difference.”

  One snowy Christmas eve, she prepared to take the children to church. As always, she invited him to go with them. As always, he refused, adding his usual “That story is nonsense! Why would God abase himself by living on earth as a man? That’s ridiculous!” So, as usual, she went, he stayed home.

  Sitting at the kitchen table relaxing with a cup of coffee and a hunk of his wife’s delicious Christmas fruit cake, he noticed the wind rising as the snowing increased. Before long a blizzard developed. He didn’t worry about his family as he knew, if need be, they’d stay with friends near the church.

  Suddenly he was startled by a loud thump against the side of the house, then another soon followed.

  Turning on all the yard lights he couldn’t detect anything so he bundled up and went out into the driving storm to look around. In the yard he found a flock of late traveling southern bound geese. They were obviously disoriented and in despair. Knowing they would be safer in shelter with food, he opened the nearby barn’s big doors.

  Returning inside he, concerned, watched them out the window. They didn’t go in the barn where he had scattered corn on the floor.

  Bundling up again he tried shooing them into the barn. It did not work.

  Then he tried laying a path of corn. It didn’t work.

  Next he tried slices of bread. It didn’t work.

  The frightened geese just kept honking and huddling, not noticing the barn or what it meant to them; nourishment and shelter from the storm.

  “Why don’t they follow my lead . . . can’t they see the only place they can survive the storm?”

  He thought for a moment and realized they wouldn’t follow him, a human. “If only I were a goose, then I could save them.” he said aloud.

  With that realization he went to the barn and gathered one of his domesticated geese in his arms, took her to the yard and released her on the far side of the stressed wild flock. Having full knowledge of good sense, she waddled quickly thru the group. They followed to safety.

  Though quite cold by now, he stood silently with the blizzard howling about him and the icy snow stinging his face. Suddenly it all made sense.

  That is what God had done and he was like those lost geese needing guidance.

  Jesus, his dear wife and children, and others, had been showing him the way of salvation, but he had refused and kept milling about in life.

  Suddenly the revelation of truth overwhelmed him and he fell to his knees, begging God’s forgiveness and trusting Jesus as Redeemer.

  As the wind and snow relented, his soul became quiet and pondered the wonderful simplicity of it all; understanding what Christmas was truly about; the reason Christ had come. He then prayed his first prayer of thanksgiving, “Thank you God for coming in human form to get me out of the storm!”  (Author unknown, rewritten from file notes and memory. EBB4)

Philippians GW 2:6-11 Although he [Jesus] was in the form of God and equal with God, he did not take advantage of this equality. Instead, he emptied himself by taking on the form of a servant, by becoming like other humans, by having a human appearance. He humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, death on a cross. This is why God has given him an exceptional honor- the name honored above all other names- so that at the name of Jesus everyone in heaven, on earth, and in the world below will kneel and confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father.

ONLY 361 DAYS UNTIL CHRISTMAS

ONLY 361 DAYS UNTIL CHRISTMAS

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

2 Corinthian [NLT] 5:1-21

   For we know that when this earthly tent we live in is taken down (that is, when we die and leave this earthly body), we will have a house in heaven, an eternal body made for us by God himself and not by human hands. We grow weary in our present bodies, and we long to put on our heavenly bodies like new clothing. For we will put on heavenly bodies; we will not be spirits without bodies. While we live in these earthly bodies, we groan and sigh, but it’s not that we want to die and get rid of these bodies that clothe us. Rather, we want to put on our new bodies so that these dying bodies will be swallowed up by life. God himself has prepared us for this, and as a guarantee he has given us his Holy Spirit.

   So we are always confident, even though we know that as long as we live in these bodies we are not at home with the Lord. For we live by believing and not by seeing. Yes, we are fully confident, and we would rather be away from these earthly bodies, for then we will be at home with the Lord. So whether we are here in this body or away from this body, our goal is to please him. For we must all stand before Christ to be judged. We will each receive whatever we deserve for the good or evil we have done in this earthly body.

   Because we understand our fearful responsibility to the Lord, we work hard to persuade others. God knows we are sincere, and I hope you know this, too. Are we commending ourselves to you again? No, we are giving you a reason to be proud of us, so you can answer those who brag about having a spectacular ministry rather than having a sincere heart. If it seems we are crazy, it is to bring glory to God. And if we are in our right minds, it is for your benefit. Either way, Christ’s love controls us. Since we believe that Christ died for all, we also believe that we have all died to our old life. He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them.

    So we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view. At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know him now! This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!

    And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him. For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation. So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!” For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ.

  Just think, only 361 days until Christmas!

  Do I hear a sigh of relief from some of you?

  For those that live in constant stress, anxious preparation for Christmas has moved far down the list. It has been replaced with Returns, Customer Service, bills to be paid, and possibly day-after decompression, blue funk or even depression. And then if and when such business is taken care of, there’s the still with us the troubles of national and world scene.

  It’s a good time to remind ourselves of everyday applicable life facts noted in and by The Word:

·         Be careful in our relationship to others. Ecc.4:9-12; Pr.27:17

·         Life is not about cash and carry. Mt.6:24; 1Tim.6:10

·         God will never leave nor abandon His children. Heb.13:5

·         We can confidently say, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can anyone do to me?" Hebrews 13:5-6

·         Remember those that live in Philippians 4:11-13 Pauline contentment. Think about their lives. Imitate their faith.

·         Jesus Christ, The Word, is the same yesterday and today-and forever! We are not to live willy-nilly silly as though God’s Truth is foreign to us. Heb.6:18; 13:8

·         As His children we are different, yet in this world but not to be of this world; accept it, live accordingly. Tit.2:14  “[Jesus] Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.” 1Pet.2:9 

·         Be thankful in word and deed. 1Thes.5:16-19 “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the Spirit.”

·         As His redeemed people, deciding to follow Him will not always result in pleasant experience this side of heaven. Rom.8:17; Phil.1:29; 2Tim.2:12; 1Pet.4:16-19

·         Christmas the holiday is past. Christ-mas is moment by moment every day. Rom.12:1-3

·         His gift is not without serious responsibility. 1Cor.15:58; 2Cor.5:1-21

·         We must think eternal-wise. Rom.12:1-3; 2Cor.10:5

  “Now may the God of peace, who by the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, the Great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good to do his will, accomplishing in us what pleases him through Jesus Christ. To him be glory forever and ever! Amen.” (ISV Heb.13:20-21)  EBB4

CHRISTMAS CONFESSION

CHRISTMAS CONFESSION

(Suppressing the Truth of Christmas)

Tuesday, December 29, 2015

Isaiah 52:7-8 How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness, who publishes salvation, who says to Zion, "Your God reigns." The voice of your watchmen—they lift up their voice; together they sing for joy; for eye to eye they see the return of the LORD to Zion.

Luke [ESV] 9:26 [Jesus explained] For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.

Romans 1:16-19 [Paul exclaimed] For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, "The righteous shall live by faith." For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them.

  Arguing for “Merry Christmas” and against ecumenical generic “Happy Holidays” is one thing, confessing Christmas (i.e. Christ-worship) is quite another.

  God’s Word tells us that a characteristic mark of a believer (i.e. Christian: follower of Christ) is verbal public confession: "The Word is near you, even in your mouth and in your heart"; that is, the Word of Faith which we proclaim; Because if you confess the Lord Jesus, and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth one confesses unto salvation. For the Scripture says, "Everyone believing on Him shall not be put to shame." For there is no difference both of Jew and of Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call on Him. For everyone, "whoever shall call on the name of the Lord will be saved." How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without preaching? And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace and bring glad tidings of good things!" But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, "Lord, who has believed our report?" Then faith is of hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. (Rom.10:8-17)

  How easy it is to speak His name in Sunday School, Bible study group, church congregation, Christmas carols, and in writing devotional thought.

  Ah, but what of place outside of comfortable religious settings?

  Apart from cozy pious zones . . . will we outlier speak of baby or adult Jesus on even so much as during the time celebrated as His birthday?

  Let us say “Merry Christmas” … good, but to what end? Does such well wishing speak of my confession of salvation?

  Believing in our heart, let us stand on beautiful feet (Rom.10:15) saying “Jesus is Lord” … someone just may believe our report and receive Jehovah God’s Christmas gift of present and everlasting redemption through trusting in God’s only begotten Son.  EBB4

THREE THINGS WE CAN LEARN FROM THE SHEPHERDS

THREE THINGS WE CAN LEARN FROM THE SHEPHERDS

Monday, December 28, 2015

Luke [GW] 2:8-20 Shepherds were in the fields near Bethlehem. They were taking turns watching their flock during the night. An angel from the Lord suddenly appeared to them. The glory of the Lord filled the area with light, and they were terrified. The angel said to them, "Don't be afraid! I have good news for you, a message that will fill everyone with joy. Today your Savior, Christ the Lord, was born in David's city. This is how you will recognize him: You will find an infant wrapped in strips of cloth and lying in a manger." Suddenly, a large army of angels appeared with the angel. They were praising God by saying, "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those who have his good will!" The angels left them and went back to heaven. The shepherds said to each other, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see what the Lord has told us about." They went quickly and found Mary and Joseph with the baby, who was lying in a manger. When they saw the child, they repeated what they had been told about him. Everyone who heard the shepherds' story was amazed. Mary treasured all these things in her heart and always thought about them. As the shepherds returned to their flock, they glorified and praised God for everything they had seen and heard. Everything happened the way the angel had told them.

The following is written from notes taken and thoughts had during Family Pastor Scott’s sermon yesterday:

  There are 3 things we can learn from the shepherds as indicated in Luke’s record. (Though today shepherds are much romanticized, they were in the lower social ranks then.)

·         They believed and courageously went to the unknown. Do we too also believe enough to breakaway from our normal environment . . . knowing from those shepherds, reading of and observing followers of Christ . . . aware that our life will be changed forever?

·          Are we willing to be as those early 2Corinthians 5:20 ambassadors for Christ, or do we much more prefer listening without creating our own book of acts?

·         Those shepherds fulfilled Romans 12:1-3 definition of godly worship. Or am I carefully doing so in the most reserved safest way I think possible or in godly trust with daring?

  Thanking Jehovah God for so loving us enough to send His only begotten Son.

  Thanking those shepherds long ago for their example.

  Thank you Pastor Scott and Becca Jones for at-risk stepping out.

EBB4

CHRISTMAS DRUTHERS

CHRISTMAS DRUTHERS

Sunday, December 27, 2015

1Thessalonians 5:18-19 In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Do not quench the Spirit.

  Being from a different country, Maryland, and cultural era, the GI Generation, folks don’t always understand my parlance. Consequently, after arriving in Nebraska I soon stopped using certain expressions lest I be thought to have webs between my toes.

  One such turn of phrase is “Now if I had my druthers …” meaning “If I had my preference …” (And it isn’t just some Southern idiom. It’s a real word. http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/druthers )

  Bogged down in The Christmas Druthers Syndrome some folks will swamp 1Thessalonians gratitude.

  My Dad and Mom were hard workers. Married and starting a family during the Great Depression was no easy feat. Dad worked fulltime, and on the side drove cab, cut meat (self-taught) for local Jewish family corner grocery stores, delivered newspapers, and ran a side business, and was on call to pickup the deceased for a mortician. Mom worked on plane radios at Bendix until WWII ended, waitressed then and after, and kept house.

  Brother Jim and I each had a single pair of shoes at a time, sometimes worn with cereal box inner soles to cover a hole in leather sole and keep our socks from wearing out. (Worked fine except when it rained.)

  According to present day government agency standards we’d be considered living in poverty.

  We were not poor. Not because we were too dumb to know the difference or that many around lived just like us, but because we had everything that mattered, knew so, and were thankful for it!

  Did I have druthers then? Sure did. I would have liked second pair of shoes, snazzy hi-top sneakers like a few of the other kids wore. I wished I did not to have to wear long-wearing itchy wool trousers. But there were no druthers that overrode gratitude for extended family love and security.

  I’m thankful we were impressed in that long ago time to live grateful instead of attitude that throws a wet blanket on one’s spirit.

  I’m thankful that such Proverbs 22:6 childhood training prepared me for later poor times.

EBB4 

CHRISTMAS AUTHENTICITY INCLUDES GODLY CONFIDENCE

CHRISTMAS AUTHENTICITY INCLUDES GODLY CONFIDENCE

Thursday, December 24, 2015

John [ESV] 1:1-14 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness, to bear witness about the light, that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light. The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

1John 3:16-21 By this we know love, that he [Jesus, the Word] laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers. But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him? Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth. By this we shall know that we are of the truth and reassure our heart before him; for whenever our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and he knows everything. Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence before God;

  What in the world does today’s above Scripture selections have to do with Christmas?!

  Considerable.

  For many folks Christmas is interpreted by lights, gifts, tinsel, and entertainment – hustle, bustle, and stress.

  Authentic Christmas means Christ-adoration, worship.

  Authentic Christmas involves personal peace; said peace heart-centered in confidence toward God.

  Confidence godly peace is inseparable from authentic Christmas.

  Without heart confident in and by godliness, Christmas is mere pagan yuletide holiday.

  In all the busyness of season, I encourage you to take time to read John’s entire (5 chapters) family letter to the Father’s John 1:12 children.

  It took me 16 minutes without rushing to read 1John aloud this morning. What else will I do this day that will take 16 minutes of my life but be comparatively insignificant? How many other things will I do that have little or nothing to do with authentic Christmas?

  Truly, authentic Christmas is a matter of the confident heart.  EBB4

THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Romans 12:1-3 I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.

  Where did the idea of Christmas spirit come from, the attitude of giving? Was it by way of the Magis’ example in expensive gifts to baby Jesus? Or, was it some brilliant ad-man many years ago that had an idea on how to stimulate commerce, and line his pockets with gold in the process?

  I’m not against gift giving. I enjoy receiving gifts. (I am not soliciting!) And certainly do enjoy giving. Giving does not however always work out as expected. As we excitedly, lovingly give, the reactions of some recipients are not exactly in what we consider Christmas spirit.

  Years ago, women of the Evangelical Methodist Church, Dublin, Maryland, donated over $8,000.00 (Originally $1,000.00 in 1960.) to purchase Christmas turkey meals for poor families in their rural farming county. Two young deacons eagerly volunteered to make deliveries to 10 families chosen from needy children participating in EMC large Sunday School. (Oddly, SS attendance was about 20% higher than worship service.)

  At 8 of the 10 households there were numerous adult men sitting smoking and drinking beer though a workday morning. Overflowing ashtrays and empty beer bottles littered the rooms. Asked about their employment status? In all 8 houses to a man they responded with some variation of “We’re looking.”

  Later, when one family’s children were asked by their SS teacher if they enjoyed their Christmas meal, the child sadly replied “No ma’am, the adults got drunk after those deacons left. They fell asleep and left the boxes on the kitchen table and the dogs and cats had their way with it. The next morning there was a big fight over whose fault it was.”

  A caring lady baked a Christmas cake for a poor family. The single mother and children expressed their thanks. The children clambered to cut the cake so as to enjoy it with Miss Barb. The mother smiled as she backed thru the kitchen swinging door carrying the cake. When she doesn’t return as expected, one of the children went to investigate. Suddenly the child loudly wailed. When all entered the kitchen they saw the mother with chocolate on hands and face. In her dysfunction she had ungraciously gobbled the entire cake! The kids scrambled to get the crumbs that had fallen on the table and floor.

  A male mentor, while playing basketball, notices his “little brother” needs news shoes. Joyously watching the boy unwrap his Christmas gift, he is disappointed when the boy complains they’re not the expensive brand his peers wear.

  An adult SS class collects $1,200 to fill a gift list for an inmate’s family. When delivered by a married couple from the church, there’s no thanks but a “Just put the stuff over there.” as children and adults continued playing their video games.

  Discouraged yet? I could go on and on and I’m sure many of you could relate stories of your own experience. Especially those of you involved in rescue missions, jail and prison ministry, and addiction counseling.

  How do we refresh and/or maintain our spiritual sensibility? By looking to The Word (Jn.1:1) for example, direction, and staying power.

  God gave His most precious gift, His only begotten Son, Jesus. He was rejected casually and cruelly by most then as now. But God did not withdraw His grace! Though betrayed, vilified, crucified . . . His free gift of salvation was and is still largely refused, and even when accepted, too often lived in mediocrity.

  Let us not turn aside from reaching out to others. Let ours be a heart fruitfully after the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; manifesting Christmas (Christ-worship) now and all year long. (Rom.12:1-3)

  “My dear brothers and sisters, don't be fooled. Every good present and every perfect gift comes from above, from the Father who made the sun, moon, and stars. The Father doesn't change like the shifting shadows produced by the sun and the moon. God decided to give us life through the word of truth to make us his most important creatures. Remember this, my dear brothers and sisters: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and should not get angry easily. An angry person doesn't do what God approves of. (GW James 1:16-20)  EBB4

HOW OLD THE CHRISTMAS STORY?

HOW OLD THE CHRISTMAS STORY?

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Matthew [MKJV] 1:18-23 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was this way (for His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph) before they came together, she was found to be with child by the Holy Spirit. But Joseph, her husband to be, being just, and not willing to make her a public example, he purposed to put her away secretly. And as he thought upon these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take to you Mary as your wife. For that in her is fathered of the Holy Spirit. And she shall bear a son, and you shall call His name JESUS: for He shall save His people from their sins. Now all this happened so that might be fulfilled that which was spoken of the LORD by the prophet, saying, "Behold, the virgin shall conceive in her womb, and will bear a son. And they will call His name Emmanuel," which being interpreted is, God with us.

  There are those that are clueless as to Christmas beyond its commercialization. There are also those that act out contrary to the Holy Spirit of Christmas (i.e. Christ-worship). For Martha types the fixation on the immediate of shopping for and/or the expectation of presents, trees and tinsel results in withering acerbic fruit contrary to the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, meekness, self-control. (Gal.5:22-23)

  Let’s not limit God working in us by confining our thinking to “Over 2,000 years ago …”

  First, considering it’s the Bible that tells us the wonderful story, let’s look at a few foundational truths.

·         Old & New Testament contains total of 66 books.

·         God used about 40 penman over a 4,000+ year period.

·         Most of them never knew each other.

·         Their writings were not the product of writer’s workshops, seminars, or conflab.

·         They were from diverse cultures, areas, and educational backgrounds.

·         Their writings, though not concurrently penned, are harmonious.

·         Their style is various, but their theme is consistent.

·         They served under the aegis of The One Editor.

  Some wrote of the coming First Advent of Christ, that which we refer to as Christmas. (Dates are circa.)

·         BC 4004, Genesis 3:15, the initial prophecy of Christ’s birth.

·         BC 1452, Numbers 24:17, the Star of Bethlehem.

·         BC 977, Ecclesiastes 9:14-15, He would come, save, and be forgotten by His own people.

·         BC 742, Isaiah 7:14, virgin birth foretold; 9:17 Messiah prophesied.

·         BC 600, Jeremiah 10:3-5, Christmas tree?

·         BC 710, Micah 5:2, birthplace foretold.

  As anyone can see, Christmas didn’t begin with the Santa Claus.  EBB4

CHRISTMAS QUESTION ANSWERED

CHRISTMAS QUESTION ANSWERED

Monday, December 21, 2015

Matthew 16:13-16 When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. [Mk.8:27-29; Lk.9:18-2]

John 11:25-26 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?

Romans 10 … if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? …

  This week last year I posed the question “Can one have authentic Christmas without personal resurrection?”

  A number of people quickly responded: “Very comprehensive question.” Kaitlan (MD); “Nope.” Penny (NE); “No.” David (NE); “My wife says "No."  I agree.” Tom (IL); “Are you talking about Spiritual resurrection as in regeneration? “ Randy (MD); “No, without a personal relationship with Christ celebrating Christmas is a secular celebration.  Jim Daley said on Focus on the Family this morning "There is no authentic reality without a personal relationship with Christ."” Sharon (NE); “Nope ... The Advent of Jesus would be meaningless without His crucifixion and His resurrection.”; “Thanks for making us think - both in today's installment and in your entire year's writings.” Rev. Dr. Rod Buck (NE); “I talked to a friend last night and he said this was his 1st Christmas.  He got saved not long ago.” Al Costanzo (NE).

  A few relatable points to keep in heart and mind in authentically celebrating Christmas:

·         “authentic” means genuine, real, valid, bona fide, true, reliable et al.

·         “Christ” identifying Jesus as deity. The honorific title is first seen in Matthew 1:1 and last seen in Revelation 22:21, with a total of 571 mentions in 532 NT verses; in every mention meaning the same thing: “anointed, that is, the Messiah, an epithet of Jesus: - Christ.” “the son of God” (Strong’s & Thayer’s Greek definitions)

·         “mas”, more commonly today “mass”, having to do with congregant celebratory worship.

·         “Christmas” meaning to worship Christ.

·         “resurrection” in and by the Word is not singularly new life after death; it is present renewal beginning with trusting Jesus Christ. (Jn.3:3; 2Cor.5:17-18; Eph.2:1-5; Col.2:13; 1Pet.3:18. I encourage looking up these verses.) 

  Jesus Christ cannot be worshipped when not believing who and what He is, always has been and always will be. (Rom.10; Rev.1:8, 11; 21:6; 22:13)

  In conversing with the confused Samaritan woman, Jesus Christ Himself emphasized  “God is a spirit, and they who worship Him must worship in spirit and in truth. The woman said to Him, I know that Messiah is coming, who is called Christ. When He has come, He will tell us all things. Jesus said to her, I AM, the One speaking to you. (MKJV Jn.4:24-26; Ex.3:13-14; Isa.52:6)

  It is impossible to have an authentic Christmas apart from personal resurrection! Without personally having a John 1:12; 3:3 relationship this season is merely temporal Happy Holidays sans eternal present.

EBB4

THANKING GOD FOR CHRISTMAS PAST, PRESENT, AND BEYOND

THANKING GOD FOR CHRISTMAS PAST, PRESENT, AND BEYOND

Sunday, December 20, 2015

1Thessalonians [GW] 5:18-21 Whatever happens, give thanks, because it is God's will in Christ Jesus that you do this. Don't put out the Spirit's fire. Don't despise what God has revealed. Instead, test everything. Hold on to what is good.

  During WWII and “the recovery years” money was more scarce than hen’s teeth. For Christmas, most of us kids received an orange, box of raisins or hard candy, a toy of some sort, and were happy with it. Extended family gatherings were the best thing. My uncles and cousins, WWII combat survivors, were the greatest fun! Especially Uncle John Bullock as he kept everybody laughing with his wit . . . and consequently often embarrassed wife Helen.

  Most people didn’t have an automobile. I was 6 or 7 when I walked with the older boys to see a neighbor’s wonderful special Christmas gift, a “New used car.” While admiring, one of the older boys snuck a touch. Fearful that the man had seen, we ran home. The tel-a-neighbor communication system of that day could have gotten the news of disrespectful behavior home before we sped around the corner. We were thankful the dreaded message didn’t come as we were concerned it may affect our Christmas.

  I only knew one older boy that got an allowance. His father was an editor for The Baltimore Sun and drove a Chrysler. Most kids didn’t have money to buy gifts. If a gift could be gotten it would be for your Mom. I remember our elementary school teacher bringing oranges and boxes of cloves to make a smell-good thing to give to our moms to put in their clothing drawer. Years later I realized it was sacrificial expense for our teacher. Oranges in the winter were not normal fare. We sometimes got one (1!) in our stocking. Spices were not cheap.

  When I was 9-10 we moved from Hamilton to Dundalk. Then I began earning money selling newspapers on street cars, shining shoes on the sidewalk outside a local bar, mowing grass with reel push mower, weeding, shoveling snow, and other chores for neighbors. (Family work was family work, unpaid.)    

  A favorite winter job was tending coal furnaces for neighbors working night shift in the steel mills. I was quite good at “stoking and banking” so their wives didn’t wake up freezing in the middle of the night. The pay was great. I got a whole dime each time! (In 2015 this would be $1.30 cents. “Big deal.” You say? The big deal was that kids did not have money then.)

  It wasn’t long until a neighbor purchased a round screen TV for Christmas. His wife didn’t want a bunch of kids “traipsing in my house”, but the husband allowed us to “As long as you’re quiet and don’t step on my flowers ..” watch thru the window. (His wife wasn’t happy about this arrangement either.) Summer was best because pre-AC we could hear thru the screen. Winter was a time of interpretation of body language and sometimes resulting in debates as to what the actors said.

  By the next cold season my brother Jim and I were weary of frostbite viewing so we asked Dad if we could get a TV. He smiled and responded “Sure. Earn, save, and buy one whenever you like.” It took a lot of hustling but we finally purchased a small Muntz tabletop TV. I think cost was 97 dollars including the 1% sales tax, equivalent to about 1,250 dollars today. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Madman_Muntz )  (One of the misconceptions about the Good Olde Days is that everything cost less. It did not, especially when considering lack of present-day features and the number of man-hours worked needed to purchase a number of items.)

  It was a wonderful life. The prevailing attitude was gratefulness.

  With GI Generation determination, our nation prospered. Most acquired their own car and TV. AC came, and later became normal even for present day “poor and underprivileged”. People spent more time in car and home “Doing their own thing.” The idea list of what is needed to live changed drastically.   

  Attitude, conversation and action on increasing, maintaining and securing wealth increased to point of now very much dominating society. Affluence brought with it neurosis and accompanying counseling and debt services in print and office, TV’s Dr. Phils soon playing an expansive role.

  More and more, when they knew God, men glorified Him not as Adonai-jireh (Jehovah Provider), losing their sense of true gratefulness, and their hearts were darkened as they increasingly became vainglorious in their thinking. (Rom.1:20-21)

 

Lord, help us please. May Your Christmas peace rule our heart producing godly attitude of gratitude.  EBB4  

TO KNOW: TO HELP OTHERS UNDERSTAND

TO KNOW: TO HELP OTHERS UNDERSTAND

Friday, December 18, 2015

Job [MKJV] 38:1-4 And Jehovah answered Job out of the tempest, and said, Who is this that darkens counsel by words without knowledge? Now gird up your loins like a man; for I will ask of you, and you teach Me. Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? Tell if you have understanding! ……

Proverbs 1:1-7 The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel; to know wisdom and instruction; to recognize the words of understanding; to receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and uprightness; to give sense to the simple, knowledge and judgment to the young man; the wise hears and increases learning; and understanding ones get wisdom; to understand a proverb and its meaning; the words of the wise, and their acute sayings. The fear of Jehovah is the beginning of knowledge; but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

1Peter 5:1-11 I exhort the elders who are among you, I being also an elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed. Feed the flock of God among you, taking the oversight, not by compulsion, but willingly; nor for base gain, but readily; nor as lording it over those allotted to you by God, but becoming examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd shall appear, you shall receive a never-fading crown of glory. Likewise, younger ones, be subject to older ones, and all being subject to one another. Put on humility. For God resists proud ones, but He gives grace to the humble. Therefore be humbled under the mighty hand of God, so that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your anxiety onto Him, for He cares for you. Be sensible and vigilant, because your adversary the Devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking someone he may devour; whom firmly resist in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions in the world are being completed in your brotherhood. But the God of all grace, He calling us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a little, He will perfect, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. To Him be the glory and the might forever and ever. Amen. 1Jn 5:10  He who believes on the Son of God has the witness in himself. He who does not believe God has made Him a liar, because he does not believe the record that God gave of His Son.

1John 5:11-14 And this is the record, that God has given to us everlasting life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. I have written these things to you who believe on the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have everlasting life, and that you may believe on the name of the Son of God. And this is the confidence that we have toward Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.

  Many elders want to bequeath understanding. I am among this lot and am passionate to do so. Today I share something learned that I consider very important to a sojourner’s eternal occupation.

  I once held to the illusion that with aging, life’s events – good or bad, delightful or disastrous – could or would be understood. After trusting Christ, reading and studying the Word, I expected my understanding of all events would be exemplary. How foolish of me! As the years from autumn 1963 passed I realized how comparatively little I was going to truly understand about the why and wherefore of every life episode.

  Did this diminish my view of God and the saving power of Jesus? No, instead it illustrated to me something of preeminent value; embracing the truth that there is God’s ultimate purpose is necessary in order to function in optimal spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical well-being here. This includes accepting I am not going to understand everything. It is not necessary for me to understand everything any more than it was for Moses, Job or other Bible characters! (Ex.3:13-14; Job 38:4)

  Realizing and accepting this truth is humbling, as well it should, for otherwise I walk anxiously seeking personal control.  (Lk.12:25)

  I also have come to understand God works with us on a need-to-know basis. Essential knowledge came quickly after that blessed autumn night. Equipping knowledge continues as required for sensible action. Another thing I came to soon understand: Implementing all I do understand remains a problem.  EBB4

PS. Originally penned Thursday, August 13, 2009. At 5:30am this morning it came up in the rotation of TO KNOW series. I reread, am reminded of past history, contemplated in view of present events, and then redacted the DT. I pray you are as blessed as much or more than me.  

TO KNOW - CHRIST' SHEEP

TO KNOW – CHRIST’ SHEEP

Thursday, December 17, 2015

John [GW] 10:2-14 [Jesus explained]  "I can guarantee this truth: The person who doesn't enter the sheep pen through the gate but climbs in somewhere else is a thief or a robber. But the one who enters through the gate is the shepherd. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep respond to his voice. He calls his sheep by name and leads them out of the pen. After he has brought out all his sheep, he walks ahead of them. The sheep follow him because they recognize his voice. They won't follow a stranger. Instead, they will run away from a stranger because they don't recognize his voice." Jesus used this illustration as he talked to the people, but they didn't understand what he meant. Jesus emphasized, "I can guarantee this truth: I am the gate for the sheep. All [claimants] who came before I did were thieves or robbers. However, the sheep didn't respond to them. I am the gate. Those who enter the sheep pen through me will be saved. They will go in and out of the sheep pen and find food. A thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy. But I came so that my sheep will have life and so that they will have everything they need. "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives his life for the sheep. A hired hand isn't a shepherd and doesn't own the sheep. When he sees a wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and quickly runs away. So the wolf drags the sheep away and scatters the flock. The hired hand is concerned about what he's going to get paid and not about the sheep. "I am the good shepherd. I know my sheep as the Father knows me. My sheep know me as I know the Father.

2Corinthians 1:20-22 Certainly, Christ made God's many promises come true. For that reason, because of our message, people also honor God by saying, "Amen!" God establishes us, together with you, in a relationship with Christ. He has also anointed us. In addition, he has put his seal of ownership on us and has given us the Spirit as his guarantee.

1Jn 2:20-25 The Holy One has anointed you, so all of you have knowledge. I'm writing to you because you know the truth, not because you don't know the truth. You know that no lie ever comes from the truth. Who is a liar? Who else but the person who rejects Jesus as the Messiah? The person who rejects the Father and the Son is an antichrist. Everyone who rejects the Son doesn't have the Father either. The person who acknowledges the Son also has the Father. Make sure that the message you heard from the beginning lives in you. If that message lives in you, you will also live in the Son and in the Father. Christ has given us the promise of eternal life.

  There is no revolving door for Christ’ sheep; we have either trusted Christ, being born again, therein stand sealed unto everlasting life now and forever, or not. (Jn.3:1-21; 2Cor.1:22; 5:17; Eph.4:13, 30)

  There are ex-church members. There are no ex-Church members. (Mt.16:18, ekklēsia; 1Jn.2:19)

  Though a John 1:12 family member can break fellowship with Him, they cannot break relationship. (Jn.10:28-30) John explains this carefully and repetitively in detail in his epistles, especially so in the first.

  Where the confusion comes in is in worldly philosophy; Christianity apart from Christ; Christian religiosity sans personal relationship in Christ.

  Those trusting in Christ as Savior do not deny Him. (Rom.10:1-21) We that know Christ comprehend the truth about evil, sin, responsibility in choices and consequences, Christ’ love, life’s significant purpose in God’s mercy and grace; and though possibly at odds in lifestyle at times, we are never eternally lost again. King David is a prime example of penalized within salvation.. (2Sam.12:14-23; 1Kng.11:6; Ps.51; Rom.4:6) Biblical Christianity is centered in Christ. It is not as some spiritual benevolence club that one can join then quit.

  As states John, “we know”.  EBB4  

TO KNOW: TRUEHEART; IT IS PERSONAL

TO KNOW: TRUEHEART; IT IS PERSONAL

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

Psalm [CEV] 119:102-106 You [Jehovah] have been my teacher, and I won't reject your instructions. Your teachings are sweeter than honey. They give me understanding and make me hate all lies. Your word is a lamp that gives light wherever I walk. Your laws are fair, and I have given my word to respect them all.

Proverbs 4:18-23 The lifestyle of good people is like sunlight at dawn that keeps getting brighter until broad daylight. The lifestyle of the wicked is like total darkness, and they will never know what makes them stumble. My child, listen carefully to everything I say. Don't forget a single word, but think about it all. Knowing these teachings will mean true life and good health for you. Carefully guard your thoughts because they are the source of true life.

1John 2:1-11 My children, I am writing this so that you won't sin. But if you do sin, Jesus Christ always does the right thing, and he will speak to the Father for us. Christ is the sacrifice that takes away our sins and the sins of all the world's people. When we obey God, we are sure that we know him. But if we claim to know him and don't obey him, we are lying and the truth isn't in our hearts. We truly love God only when we obey him as we should, and then we know that we belong to him. If we say we are his, we must follow the example of Christ. My dear friends, I am not writing to give you a new commandment. It is the same one that you were first given, and it is the message you heard. But it really is a new commandment, and you know its true meaning, just as Christ does. You can see the darkness fading away and the true light already shining. If we claim to be in the light and hate someone, we are still in the dark. But if we love others, we are in the light, and we don't cause problems for them. If we hate others, we are living and walking in the dark. We don't know where we are going, because we can't see in the dark.

  God alone truly saves. Trust Jesus and His gift of present and everlasting redemption is ours with absolute guarantee. (Rom.5:15-18; 6:23; Eph.1:13-14; 4:30) Follow Him and we enjoy and rejoice in surety of heart. Don’t follow Him, refusing light, and we stumble in darkness. This stumbling includes worrisome heartfelt uncertainty about salvation, a troubling emotional faltering. (James 1:8)

  All Scripture speaks clearly on this topic. John does so with clarity, including example and illustration; contrasting love and hate in today’s selected passage. I especially appreciate the evaluator’s authentic measure of lovers of others. I hear John speaking of a number of related evident actions. An unregulated contentious ego-reactive spirit for one, something that Paul includes in his letter to the Galatians; dark life not being limited to what humanity traditionally considers the worst of sins.  

  “Now the works of the flesh are clearly revealed, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lustfulness, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, fightings, jealousies, angers, rivalries, divisions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkennesses, revelings, and things like these; of which I tell you before, as I also said before, that they who do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is: love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, meekness, self-control; against such things there is no law. But those belonging to Christ have crucified the flesh with its passions and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not become glory-seeking, provoking one another, envying one another.” (MKJV Gal.5:19-26 Underlining mine. Take note that all involve passionate heartfelt emotion.)

  Is this to say that we as believers will never ever commit these sins? No, and for John to state thusly would be to contradict himself and God. (1Jn.1:8-10) What it does say is “We know that everyone who has been born of God does not continue to sin.” (1Jn.5:18a; note 2Cor.5:14-21) In my machinist’s and DIY mind, this means that we, God’s children, are no longer occupied with design, engineering, construction and maintenance of sin; Spirit contrary to spirit.

  Thank God for a new true heart that includes well-lighted enablement.  EBB4

TO KNOW: ETERNAL LIFE IS WITHPUT PLANETARY ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

TO KNOW: ETERNAL LIFE IS WITHOUT PLANETARY ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Monday, December 14, 2015

1John GW 3:1-15 Consider this: The Father has given us his love. He loves us so much that we are actually called God's dear children. And that's what we are. For this reason the world doesn't recognize us, and it didn't recognize him either. Dear friends, now we are God's children. What we will be isn't completely clear yet. We do know that when Christ appears we will be like him because we will see him as he is. So all people who have this confidence in Christ keep themselves pure, as Christ is pure. Those who live sinful lives are disobeying God. Sin is disobedience. You know that Christ appeared in order to take away our sins. He isn't sinful. Those who live in Christ don't go on sinning. Those who go on sinning haven't seen or known Christ. Dear children, don't let anyone deceive you. Whoever does what God approves of has God's approval as Christ has God's approval. The person who lives a sinful life belongs to the devil, because the devil has been committing sin since the beginning. The reason that the Son of God appeared was to destroy what the devil does. Those who have been born from God don't live sinful lives. What God has said lives in them, and they can't live sinful lives. They have been born from God. This is the way God's children are distinguished from the devil's children. Everyone who doesn't do what is right or love other believers isn't God's child. The message that you have heard from the beginning is to love each other. Don't be like Cain. He was a child of the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did Cain murder his brother? Because the things Cain did were evil and the things his brother did had God's approval. Brothers and sisters, don't be surprised if the world hates you. We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love other believers. The person who doesn't grow in love remains in death. Everyone who hates another believer is a murderer, and you know that a murderer doesn't have eternal life.

  Another way I have been taught to advantage Scripture is to read it backwards beginning with the last verse in section being studied.

  Reading v.15 several times, I take note of the little “is” and realize John is not saying “has murdered” for that would be contradictory of God’s all encompassing forgiveness. He is speaking of not occasion (Which would discount Paul completely. Acts8:1-3; 9:1-2), John is referring to present tense active as in continuous murderous frame of hateful mind; this personally so as result, indication and allowance of never having been born-again, thereby being sans redemptive “the mind of Christ”. (Jn.3:3; 1Cor.2:15b; 2Cor.5:17; 1Jn.3:6, 8)

  Certainly nothing to boast of, but a proof of knowing eternal life is that as a youth taking offenses real and imagined I entertained rancorous murderous thinking. (Obviously other thoughts deterred me, including knowing I wasn’t smart enough to pull it off and then more-certain capital punishment.)

  Continuing studying from last to first, pondering my past to present, I remember my horrible offense oft taken being lack of recognition, something now expected, and accepted. 

  To know Christ is to know contrast glorious.  EBB4 

TO KNOW: HIS CODE OF CONDUCT

TO KNOW: HIS CODE OF CONDUCT

Sunday, December 13, 2015

Dear fellow travelers,

  Do you understand that DTs (Daily Thoughts) are mine, a personal journaling that I share with you? As such I reread them as a continuing exercise in personal examination. I wrote the TO KNOW series beginning in 2009. Today’s was initially penned on Monday, January 19, 2009. In re-airing the series it fell on this Sunday.

Philia,

Ed Bullock

Matthew LITV 22:35-40 And one of them, a lawyer, questioned Him, testing Him, and saying,  Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law? And Jesus said to him, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind." [Deut.6:5] This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." [Lev.19:18] 40 On these two commandments all the Law and the Prophets hang.

1John 2:1-5 My little children, I write these things to you so that you do not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. And He Himself is the propitiation relating to our sins, and not relating to ours only, but also relating to all the world. And by this we know that we have known Him, if we keep His commands. The one saying, I have known Him, and not keeping His commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that one. But whoever keeps His Word, truly in this one the love of God has been perfected [fulfilled and made complete]. By this we know that we are in Him.

  Everybody has within them a code of conduct that cannot be hidden. It springs forth from our basic foundational beliefs; who and what we trust in. Our code is revealed in everyday relationships involving decisions and ensuing actions; especially exposed when personal relationships investment, expense, credit, and success are concerned.

  Our public actions and reactions to life before family, friend, acquaintance and stranger, shows our true character. For example, a biggie for me is “Do I act and react in 1Corinthians 13 charitable love, God’s Word that should be core item in my innermost code of conduct? Or do I typically respond with making life all about me; revealing defensive protectionism sans candid examination, denial of truth, blame shifting, self-pitying remarks, bringing in a raft of sidebar issues, et al?”    

  Indeed our common reactions reveal the code of conduct present and growing within us, a matter of tremendous social consequence, but far above such local temporal manner and results is the eternal issue involved for the professing Christian. (This is especially so for those without blessed assurance of everlasting life. A terrible state in which to dwell!)

  John, with his many “knowing” statements tells us yet again that we can definitely know. How so in today’s selected passage? = by whether we live the truth that is within us, uncovered in the observed keeping, or not, of Jesus Christ’ commandments.

   “And hereby we do know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments.” (1Jn.2:3) is evidential assurance. (Lest anyone be confused by this, please note that the word is “assurance”, not “insurance” as in “premiums paid”; we are not saved by keeping Christ’ commandments; His John 1:12 family keep His commandments because we are saved. Eph.2:1-10)

  Let us continue in prayer for certainty that delivers us from hindrance of stumbling in doubt, with our hope solidly placed in John’s 3:16 recorded Truth of His love and grace. Then we will be of the same confidence in God’s testimony and exhortation as he lettered in 1John.  EBB4

TO KNOW: THAT OUR JOY MAY BE FULL

TO KNOW – THAT OUR JOY MAY BE FULL

Friday, December 11, 2015

2Corinthians [CEV] 6:1-2 We work together with God, and we beg you to make good use of God's kindness to you. In the Scriptures God says, "When the time came, I listened to you, and when you needed help, I came to save you." That time has come. This is the day for you to be saved.

1Peter 5:1-8 Church leaders, I am writing to encourage you. I too am a leader, as well as a witness to Christ's suffering, and I will share in his glory when it is shown to us. Just as shepherds watch over their sheep, you must watch over everyone God has placed in your care. Do it willingly in order to please God, and not simply because you think you must. Let it be something you want to do, instead of something you do merely to make money. Don't be bossy to those people who are in your care, but set an example for them. Then when Christ the Chief Shepherd returns, you will be given a crown that will never lose its glory. All of you young people should obey your elders. In fact, everyone should be humble toward everyone else. The Scriptures say, "God opposes proud people, but he helps everyone who is humble." Be humble in the presence of God's mighty power, and he will honor you when the time comes. God cares for you, so turn all your worries over to him. Be on your guard and stay awake. Your enemy, the devil, is like a roaring lion, sneaking around to find someone to attack.

  Some communications require digging to figure out the reason for being written. Not so with The First Epistle of John, for in his opening remarks John states “these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full.” (1:4)

  And what did John and company write that our joy may be full?

  That as John 1:12 children of the Father we can actually truly utterly know blessed assurance of eternal life, salvation; “fellowship with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ.” John, with his “know” and its variations throughout their letter makes the answer to authentic salvation examination quite plain. It does however take effort beyond a casual cruise thru the 5 chapters of 1John. It requires being a 2Timothy 2:15-16 “workman”, something easily drawn back from as we dare to be as lazy as we may be, too often preferring mere pew-warming religiousity, churchianity. Or to merrily quote John 3:16 and Philippians 4:13 as mantra while living with troubling inner doubts niggle-naggling the fullness of joy presented and encouraged for us.

  Now that we know such, what shall we do this day; walk in wondering angst when we can know full joy with the release and empowerment that is inherent to absolutely knowing the reality of God’s salvation?

  I do indeed have physical balance problem, but I am without qualm on-balance upon God’s provision of blessed assurance. I pray this is so with each and every one of you.  EBB4 

TO KNOW: THE TRUTH IN US?

TO KNOW: THE TRUTH IN US?

Thursday, December 10, 2015

John [MKJV] 8:23-34 And He said to them, You are from beneath; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. Therefore I said to you that you shall die in your sins, for if you do not believe that I AM, you shall die in your sins. Then they said to Him, Who are you? And Jesus said to them, Even the same which I also say to you. I have many things to say and to judge of you, but He who sent Me is true, and I speak to the world those things what I heard of Him. They did not understand that He spoke to them of the Father. Then Jesus said to them, When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you shall know that I AM, and that I do nothing of Myself, but as My Father has taught Me, I speak these things. And He who sent Me is with Me. The Father has not left Me alone, for I always do those things which please Him. As He spoke these words, many believed upon Him. Then Jesus said to the Jews who believed on Him, If you continue in My Word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. They answered Him, We are Abraham's seed and were never in bondage to anyone. How do you say, You will be made free? Jesus answered them, Truly, truly, I say to you, Whoever practices sin is the slave of sin.

John 14:6-7 Jesus said to him, I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life; no one comes to the Father but by Me. If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also. And from now on you know Him and have seen Him.

1John 1:8-10 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess [Strong’s - G3670, ὁμολογέω, homologeō, hom-ol-og-eh'-o, From a compound of the base of G3674 and G3056; to assent, that is, covenant, acknowledge: - con- (pro-) fess, confession is made, give thanks, promise.] our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His Word is not in us.

  When reading the Gospel of or the Epistles of John, keep in mind that they are penned by the same man, the Apostle John, he who walked with Jesus and laid his head on His breast (Jn.1:1-3; 13:23-25).

  We know as we confess sinfulness we are agreeing with God that there is not a single glimmer of inherent righteousness in us. Doing so we give assent to and acknowledge God’s truth within us as believers, never separate from the fact that “There is none righteous, no, not one”. (Isa.64:6; Rom.3:10, 23)

  Should it make personal salvation suspect if we say we are without sin? Or as I often heard in jail “I really am a good person. I just have made some mistakes.”?

  Argue with God on some issues if you will (Gen.18:22-33; 32:24-31), but dispute not who and what we truly are of ourselves; unrighteous, desperately needing present and eternal redemption that is only in, by, and through Christ Jesus. (Rom.3:21-25)

  To agree with Him about our base nature and that there is but One that can forgive unto present and eternal redemption brings with it the blessed assurance of everlasting salvation. A plain truth often complicated by those with prideful ego lying far from accepting God’s gracious cleansing.  EBB4