Is it Nothing to You? Book Reminder

From time to time I hear the question asked, How does a man stay fresh in the ministry? The question is so very relevant for often in the daily plod of ministry it is so very easy to become professional, tired and weary. When the clouds gather for me I go again to the cross. I make the reading and studying of the gospels my focus. I also like to read something devotional that will help stir up great thoughts of the Saviour. To this end I have found the trilogy of the late F.S. Leahy so helpful. I have just finished reading again "Is it nothing to You?" It was published by Banner back in 2004 and is a little gold mine of heart warming devotions on the "unchanging significance of the cross." I guess one of the reasons that I enjoy these books so much is that I had the privilege of having the author as my Theology prof at seminary. I can hear him say the words and having known him I know that they are not words that simply sit as ink on paper, but words that flowed out of a ministry that was constantly filled with the life invigorating freshness of the gospel. This is a short book - about ten chapters. Take one chapter a day before breakfast and before reading and praying and by the grace of God you will find your heart strangely warmed within you.

"I Hope he's proud of me"

Less than 24 hours after the tragic death of legendary road racer Robert Dunlop his young son Michael stood on the winners podium of the world famous North West 200 having won the 250cc event in style. The young man wept openly as the victor's wreath was hung round his head. Later in an interview it was obvious that the winning of the race was hollow for a young man who was mourning the loss of his father. As the BBC interview drew to a close the shy young man quietly said, "I hope he is proud of me."

Michael's sorrowing statement echoes out the heart of humanity. That longing to be accepted, that deep desire to be thought well of, that someone might be proud of us.

Of course the reality is that of our selves before the heavenly Father there is nothing in us for Him to be proud. Our sin has separated us from Him. Naturally we are far from God, without hope in the world. But the good news is there was a son of whom a father was deeply proud, there was a son whose father delighted in him and the victory he had won. That son was and is the Lord Jesus Christ. He has received the victor's crown. He has defeated sin, Satan and death. The Father said of Him, "This is My beloved Son. With Him I am well pleased." And the good news is - that whoever believes in the Lord Jesus Christ, God will accept, oh indeed delight in because of the finished work of His dear Son. There is a way for ultimate acceptance and peace. To be reconciled to God through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Book Review "The Reason for God" T. Keller

I have for the past year or so been a TK fan. His preaching is so on the button when it comes to Biblical accuracy and communicating in the 21st century. He is often my running companion as I listen to one of his sermon's on mp3. Having listened to his unique and winsome style of communicating the gospel in a way that touches down in the mind of post modern man it was with great excitement that I purchased his new book, "The Reason for God" subtitled Belief in an Age of Skeptism. It is published by Dutton in hardback. I presume a paperback version will eventually appear. I recommend you buy a hardback copy for your self as this is one to read every year if you are serious about proclaiming the Good News either in preaching or personal witness. The paperback versions will mean that you can spend some of your hard earned cash in buying a bundle for giving away to unconverted neighbours and friends. Keller answers the questions that people are asking in the most disarming manner. This book of just over 290 pages divides into two parts. Seven chapters under the theme of "The Leap of Doubt" where he deals respectfully with all the questions that are set before you every day E.g. Is there only one true religion? Why all the suffering? How could a loving God send people to hell? Can you really trust the Bible? The second half of the book consisting of seven chapters is under the theme "The Reasons for Faith." In this section Keller deals with the knowledge of God, the problem of sin, religion and the gospel etc.

One of the things that you will find reading or indeed listening to Keller is that he always has interesting and surprising ways of presenting truth.

This would be a great book for you young guys to read through together and discuss how you will put it into action. For any preachers who read review this - you simply have to read and reread this that something of Keller's technique of disarming the defeater ideas of the world might rub off on you. If you are looking for the book to take on holiday with you - this is the one. Perhaps you should pack a few extra paperbacks if they come out soon so that you can give them away to any who ask "what's that your reading?"

Since I am pretty wick at book reviews why not listen to the man himself at http://www.thereasonforgod.com/

Lost in the Middle Paul David Tripp

When you are 45 there are some books that are a must read - and this comes fairly close to the top of the list. The book has the subtitle, "Midlife and the Grace of God." It is published by Shepherd Press and costs £8.95. As with any book that comes from CCEF counsellors this book is thoroughly rooted in the Scriptures, wonderfully written and dotted throughout with timely illustrations from the lives of real people. Don't be mistaken into thinking that this books is just for blokes that can no longer run sub five minute miles, are greying somewhat at the temples and have that bulge appearing over their belt. This book has timeless truths for people of all agge groups. David Tripp in his usual masterly manner peals back the facade of modern man and shows why people in midlife often feel that they are lost in the middle. The book rises to an energising climax as the author reminds the reader that it is often in mid life that God in His grace opens our eyes to see who we really are and how He can uses the disappointments, unfulfilled dreams and tragic failures to make us people not lost in the middle but wonderfully found and enwrapped in the crescendo of redemption that God is ringing out in our lives.

My advice is; read it for yourself and then find a friend that you can discuss it chapter by chapter with and then pray in the truths that the Lord brings to bear on your heart.

Why Evening Worship

This article is written with the purpose of encouraging the followers of the Lord Jesus Christ to make use of the privilege and blessing of evening worship.
It is written acknowledging that there are Biblical reasons why it is not always possible to return for worship on the evening of the Lord’s day.
Though we may not have any direct Biblical command, “You shall return to evening worship,” we have much by way of implication from the Scripture.
Below are seven reasons why the people of God should return for evening worship

1. Because of the Glory of God
God’s glory is the all important matter in life. Paul exhorted the church at Corinth to, do all to the glory of God. (I Corinthians 10:31) The work of the devil is to rob God of His glory - that is his primary purpose. When we are absent without due cause from worship God is being robbed of His glory because God’s glory is displayed in His people. Added to this, if we are not growing as Christians as we should and could, God is being robbed of glory. We cannot be growing as we ought if we are not taking in the Word of God preached.
2. Because of the Presence of Christ
The psalmist writes I love the house where you live, O Lord. The place where Your glory dwells. (Psalm 26:8) God does not live in any building made by the hands of men. He does reside by His Spirit amongst His people. Where Christ’s people are, He is in the midst of them. When we gather for public worship we enjoy the presence of Christ with His people in a way that we cannot enjoy when we are on our own. One way to express our love for Christ is to delight in being where He is in this special way. No right thinking believer would want to snub their Lord and Saviour by absenting themselves without due cause from public worship.
3. Because of the Nature of the Lord’s Day
The Lord’s day is for rest. That rest is not the rest of inactivity but the rest of worship and service. We are commanded to keep the whole day in a holy manner - i.e. set aside for the Lord. We are not to use the Sabbath just as a time to rest our bodies physically. Our primary rest is found in the Lord Jesus Christ, learning of Him and His Word. Through the prophet Isaiah God told His people about the blessing of putting God first. If you keep your feet from breaking the Sabbath and from doing as you please on My holy day, if you call the Sabbath a delight and the Lord’s holy day honourable, and if you honour it by not going your own way and not doing as you please or speaking idle words, then you will find your joy in the Lord… (Isaiah 58:13& 13a)
Another purpose of the Sabbath is to point us to Christ’s return and the rest that is yet to come. That rest of heaven will be unbroken and worshipping God publicly throughout the Sabbath day as we have opportunity is good practice for the life that is ahead.
The argument that worshipping twice will leave me too tired for my work simply does not stand - we are not to do as we please. When we put Him first He has promised to add to our lives all that we need.
4. Because of our Responsibility to each other
When someone becomes a Christian they are united to the Lord Jesus Christ. That union with Christ means that we are united to other believers. We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son, Jesus Christ. (I John 1:3&4) That union with other believers is to be particularly evidenced in our local church. The many one another exhortations call us to love one another and encourage one another. One of the ways that we can do that is by being present at the services for public worship. The writer to the Hebrews makes the direct link between encouraging one another and being present when the church meets. And let us consider how we may spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another. (Hebrews 10:24&25) The presence of other believers at public worship is a support to one another as we remind ourselves what is important in our lives. Likewise our absence sends a serious message to other believers, particularly young ones - that we can get along fine without the preaching of God’s Word and the company of the saints.
5. Because of our Witness to the World
The message of the Scripture is that our lives are to display to men and women the glorious light of the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. Let your light shine before men that they may see your good deeds and praise your father in heaven. (Matthew 5:16) When we are present at worship we are making an important statement to visitors - the worship of the Lord Jesus Christ is the most important thing in my life. When we are absent visitors note and conclude - there mustn’t be much of importance that is happening here. Our presence at worship says to the world that the proclamation of the Word of God is vital.
There is a secondary dimension to this, in that, as we come under the Word Christ deals with us and uses His Word to make us more like Him and the more like Him we are the more useful we will be in reaching the lost.
6. Because we are Under the Authority of Elders
One of the curses of our day and age is the spirit of individualism that says I will do what suits me and I am accountable to no one but myself. Biblical Christianity is to liberate us from this selfish and self centred mindset. When God in His loving kindness saves us He sets us in a church family. In that church family Christ has delegated His authority to the elders who are called to lead and organise the life of the church.
Elders in every local church will at the end of their lives give account as to how they have led, fed and nurtured the people of God. Our responsibility is to honour those whom God has placed in authority over us. If they have decided before God that public worship is beneficial twice on the Lord’s day then it is our duty to seek to honour them in that. Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them se that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you. (Hebrews 13:17)
7. Because of our Need
God has designed that the people of God will be built up in their faith through the preaching of the Word of God. We are commanded to let the Word of Christ dwell richly within you. (Colossians 3:16) We are told to be as new born babies that crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation.
(I Peter 2:2)
Remember that when these commands were given people had no personal Bible to take home for daily devotions. It was the Word publicly preached that was food for their souls.
Imagine a mother who each day provides two good meals for her family. Would she not be concerned that some of the children were skipping meals? Would the evidence of skipping meals not soon appear in their lives?
Christ desires that we will be set apart for His service in our homes, work places and communities. He has prescribed the means for our sanctification. Sanctify them by the truth, Your word is truth. (John 17:17)

PRACTICAL HELP
1. Prepare for the Sabbath day by ensuring that you are in bed early on a Saturday evening. Children will need particular help with this.
2. Plan your visiting of family and friends for a Saturday evening and not a Sabbath evening.
3. If you are having friends or family for hospitality ensure that you are organised before hand and have worked out your timing to enable a return for evening worship.
4. Some with children can say that the children are too small to be present in the evening. This may be so for some. But if we are happy to have them out late at the cinema, or on a visit to friends late in the evening can evening worship be too late? It is a matter of priorities.
5. For some who are elderly and find the travelling on a winter’s night too demanding - you should consider speaking with the minister asking if a lift can be arranged. We would be delighted to arrange this.

If men wish the knowledge of Jesus’ resurrection to die out, let them neglect to keep holy the first day of the week, if they desire that event to be everywhere known and remembered let them consecrate that day to the worship of the risen Saviour.
Charles Hodge

God Save the Queen

Yesterday in the city of Armagh Queen Elizabeth II took part in a service known as the Maundy service. The word Maundy comes from the latin word for command and is linked to the command of the Lord Jesus Christ to love one another. Sadly the service in Armagh Church of Ireland cathedral couldn't have been further from a statement of love. To truly love others truth is to the fore and sadly truth was missing yesterday in Armagh.

While many hailed the joy of having all the main churches wonderfully united with a hint of Islam and Buddhism thrown in for good measure this was nothing more than an emblem of the great tragedy of our day. This was simply another cunning chapter in the devil's hand book on how to hoodwink people into thinking that you can have your truth and I can have mine.

Roman Catholisim, modern day Judaism, Islam and Buddhism all teach that men and women are saved by good works. Protestantism teaches that sinners are saved by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone.

The Maundy service in Armagh was no act of love but the most despicable act of hatred that said to men and women, you know all is well, truth can be of your kind or mine. The publicity that this service received ought to send the evangelical population of the Province to our knees to cry out that God would save the Queen, and that in wrath He would remember mercy.

Parable of the olly bolly dob dob flower

Just in case there are an Night Garden bloggers out there aged between 0 and 3 this post is for you.

In an attempt to distract my two year old when her mum was heading out for the the evening I thought why not treat her to an episode of her favourite Night Garden on BBC iplayer. So we logged on and sat back to watch the show. The story line of the episode was quite easy to follow, the Pinkyponk had landed in the Night Garden and Upsy Daisy, Iggle Piggle, the Tombliboos and the Pontipines clambered aboard. The Pinkyponk eased up off the ground to it's usual flatulant like noises. Soon it was weaving its way through the branches, over some and under others. How excited all the little passengers were as they headed off on the mystery tour.

Repeatedlly someone asked, Do you know where the Pinkponk is going? No one on board seemed to have the foggiest notion. Where was this wonderful machine carrying its occupants off too? Higher and higher it rose through the trees until it was out above the tree canopy. Then with great excitement in the air the Pinkyponk let out a few of its usual noises and came to a standstill in mid air. The big moment had arrived, the secret at the end of the journey, the reason for all the huffing and puffing - the olly bolly dob dob flower was opening up!

Now I don't know about you but if I had been Upsy Daisy, Iggle Piggle, the Tombilboos or the Pontipines I would have been rather peeved that that was it - an olly bolly dod dob flower.

My two year old didn't seem to notice that I was watching more attentively than usual and had pen in hand jotting down some thoughts.

All I could think of was - how like the lives of so many people - full of excitement, a lot of noise and commotion, and at the end nothing at all to show for the journey. How like so many just wasting away their lives journeying aimlessly with nothing at the end but disappointment. And that is what life is like without Jesus Christ - a journey on the Pinkyponk achieving nothing.

To journey with the Lord Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour is an entirely different situation. With Him there is real purpose, glorifying God and enjoying Him for ever, journeying onwards and upwards in our heavenly calling to the city that has no foundation. No disappointment there - but life everlasting.

Just as my two year old was hoping for another episode someone from the Night Garden said, Go to sleep Tombilboos and I thought - that is what the devil is saying to men and women the world over - go to sleep everything is all right, when everything is all wrong.

So take a long look at your life on your Pinkyponk - are you on a meaningless journey with nothing but Olly bolly dob dob flowers at the end or by grace have you come to the only one who can deal with sin and give real purpose. He is ready and willing to have you come aboard.

Why Join the Local Church

Every Christian should be a church member, however, not all seem to be persuaded of this. Some with hurts from the past feel that the step of membership is hard to take again. Others are on the search for the perfect church and are reluctant put down their roots. Still others seem to have a pride in their supposed flexibility saying, “we belong to a global church.” Some may even out of a wrong sense of responsibility say, “I don’t want to be a burden to anyone.” The purpose of this short article is to show clearly the Biblical principle that every Christian should belong to a visible body of believers.
It goes without saying that not any church will do. The Reformers of the 16th century rightly spoke of the three marks of the church: true preaching of the Word of God, faithful administering of the sacraments and the exercising of Biblical Church discipline. A church that has these three marks evident in its life is the sort of church a Christian should belong to and be visibly committed to.
It is also true that every saved sinner belongs to the wider Church of God. Revelation 7:9 speaks of a great multitude which no one can number. Our membership of this world wide, century bridging company is to be expressed in our membership of the local church. By local this does not necessarily mean the church nearest to where you live. Sometimes this is simply not possible.
We believe also that the children of believers are already members of the church. That is how it was in the OT & NT. For them we look forward to seeing God’s grace apparent in their lives and them professing faith in Christ when they come to the years of discernment. At that stage they will enter in to all of the responsibilities and privileges of being a member of the church.
So why should every follower of Jesus Christ belong formally to a local gathering of believers?

1. Because God Says So
As with many aspects of the Christian life there is no direct command, “You shall belong to the local church.” However membership of a congregation is clearly implied and is what God expects. For example: in Acts 20:28 the elders of Ephesus were told to take care of the flock. How could they take care of the flock unless there was a flock to which the sheep belonged and the shepherds knew which sheep belonged to them. Or take the situation in Jerusalem, Those who accepted the message were baptised and added to their number that day. (Acts 2:41) That addition was not just that there were more of them, but that they were officially incorporated into the developing congregations of Jerusalem. That official belonging is emphasised later in Acts when Luke records, after the incident with Annanias and Saphira, that none of the rest dared join them. The word that is translated join means, “to glue or cement together, to unite, to join firmly.” Use of the word elsewhere shows that this was no casual superficial thing but the cohesive bonded relationship of church membership.
Think also of the implication for membership that there is with regards to leaders in the church. In I Timothy 3:5 speaking of the qualifications for the eldership Paul writes, If a man does not know how to rule his own house how will he take care of the church of God. The implication is clear that there will be a clearly defined church for him to care for. The NT believers officially belonged to a church.
When we take on membership we are obeying the Lord Jesus Christ and that is a sign of our salvation.
2. Because We Need the Care of the Church
The Lord does not call us to live our lives on our own. He expects us to belong to a congregation of God’s people where we will be cared for and can be involved in making and caring for new disciples. The NT is full of instruction on how the flock of God is to be cared for. Matthew 18:15-17 tells us how the church should respond when someone in the church starts to live like an unbeliever - tell it to the church...treat him as you would a pagan or a tax collector.
This has practical implication for our lives. God has designed church discipline to be a blessing in our lives - His means for calling us back when we wander. Someone not in membership of a local congregation does not have this privilege and that is a very dangerous position to be in.
3. Because We Have Responsibilities for Others
In Hebrews 10:24&25 we are commanded to consider one another. Not joining the church sends out a wrong and unbiblical message to other believers and also to the world. Not joining is modelling a sinful pattern to others. This is a serious thing to do. Not joining sends the message - this church and her teaching is not worthwhile being committed to; the work of God doesn’t deserve all of our lives.
Of course the opposite is also true. When we join a Biblical church we are making a massive statement to the unbelieving world and rightly considering others.
We should also remember that every Christian has been entrusted with gifts to be used in the context of a local church. These gifts are given for the common good (I Corinthians 12:7). Yes it is true that someone can use their gifts outside of the church but many of the ministry opportunities are available for church members only. A famous American preacher once said, Not joining the church is saying I don’t want to serve the only institution that Christ ever built.
4. Because we Have a Lost World to Reach
We should join a local church for the sake of reaching the lost. When we work together we can better spread the Gospel at home and overseas. A local church which is Biblical is a lighthouse to the world. When we take on membership we back up the missionary endeavours of the church. Together in the church we can reach our towns and community and combine our efforts to further the gospel across the world.
5. Because we want to Bring Glory to God
How we live our lives can bring glory to God. Peter writing to the early NT believers wrote, Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us. (I Peter 2:12) That is not only true for us as individuals but also in our lives together. Our lives together are to show that we belong to Christ and to bring Him glory. When you join the church you are being adopted into the family of God’s people and in that family the relationships lived out and the service given one for the other will bring glory to God. Bringing glory to God is the reason above all that Christians should belong to a church.
Obviously anyone can come along to the services and benefit from the preaching and the warmth of the fellowship. But there are many more privileges in belonging to the church. You will receive the official care and oversight of the minister and elders; you will have the opportunity to come to the Lord’s Table without being welcomed as a visitor. You will have the privilege of your children being able to receive the sign of baptism. You will have the privilege of being able to stand alongside a group of believers knowing that this is your church where you will be cared for, prayed for and your gifts utilised to God’s glory.
So do not merely attend a church - join. Join because God says so, because you need to, because others will be blessed and most of all because God will be glorified.

All that glistens isn't Gold

BBC world news revealed this week that Ethiopa are in the process of testing all the gold in their vaults to determine if they are really as wealthy as they have been imagining. In a recent transaction with South Africa it was uncovered that some of Ethiopia's gold was no more that gold plated steel.

What a marvellous illustration of many in the world today imagining that they are rich when the reality is that they are terribly poor, that all the time when they imagined that they had wealth they had nothing. So many imagine that their good works are some sort of bullion that they can barter with God with. But time will tell that all that they have is as worthless as plated steel.

The wonderful good news of the gospel is that we can become truly rich. Paul speaks of the Lord Jesus as the one who was rich and yet for our sakes became poor, that we through is poverty might become rich.

Here is how the deal works. When God made man he was really rich, he knew God and was in fellowship with God. Adam and Even decided that real wealth was in doing their own thing. In an instant they were bankrupt before God. God in His love and mercy had a wonderful plan. His Eternal Son came to earth, leaving behind the wealth of heaven. He took upon himself our form, yet without sin, lived in this sinful world as the only perfect man, keeping God's law perfectly. His life was one of utter poverty - rejected by all but a few of the lowest of society. Things hit rock bottom for Him when He was nailed to a cross. In those hours hanging between heaven and earth He was forsaken of His Father as He bore the ultimate price for the sin of many. When He had finished paying the price for the salvation of many He was raise from the dead and declared with power to be the Son of God. His resurrection was God's stamp - PAID IN FULL. Now in heaven as the God Man He rules the nations making men and women really rich as they receive Him in repentance and faith.

To be really rich the currency of heaven - declare your total poverty before God, that you are a sinner deserving of His holy wrath, and cry out to Him to save you on the basis of Christ's finished work. In an instant you will have wealth that will never perish, spoil or fade - forgiveness of sin, a new standing with God, a place in the family of God and the sure and certain hope of heaven.

It is time to stop imagining that you have wealth in and of yourself and receive the riches of Christ. Remember only hands that are empty can receive the gift.

Contending for the Faith Robert L. Reymond

This 400 plus page book published by Mentor is a collection of twenty five theological papers. The subects covered in the book range from creation to hell. Some of the chapters are quite heavy and eg Brunner's dialectal encounter. I have to confess that the one on Brunner and two others (Bultman and Barth) were beyond my mind. The other 22 chapters are all an excellent read. Reymond's clear Biblical approach mixed with a warmth and graciousness make the comments of the author good food for the soul. Reymond is never afraid to point out error as in his debunking of Stott's view on hell. But it is always done in the most gracious manner. That alone makes me want to read more. It is hard to pick out a best chapter. I think if I am pushed the best is saved to the end when he writes on the topic "What's wrong with Islam." I thoroughly recommend this volume to all blog readers. not only will you find clear Scriptural teaching but it will also furnish you with a style of writing that is warm and winsome yet straight to the point.

Contents

1. The Justification of Theology with Special Application to Contemporary Christology
2. The Historical Integrity of Genesis 1-11
3. “In The Space of Six Days”
4. The Theological Significance of The Biblical Doctrine of Creation.
5. The Angels of God
6. The Contributions of Ugaritic Study to Old Testament Study
7. Salvation Principles Governing The Genesis Patriarchs and The Exodus Redemption
8. An Amicus Brief for Unconditional Election
9. My Vision of the Department of Systematic Theology in a Reformed Seminary
10. Revisiting How We Should Support The Doctrine of The Trinity
11. The Trinitarianism of the Westminster Confession of Faith: Nicene or Reformed?
12. Why Must Jesus Be God and Man?
13. The Sanders/Dunn “Fork in the Road” in the Current Controversy Over the Pauline Doctrine of Justification by Faith.
14. Lord’s Day Observance: Mankind’s Proper Response to the Fourth Commandment.
15. Children in the Covenant
16. Brunner’s Dialectical Encounter
17. Barth’s Doctrine of Election and Reconciliation
18. Bultmann’s Demythologized Kerygma
19. Dr. John H. Gerstner on Thomas Aquinas as a Protestant
20. Dr. Robert H. Schuller’s Self-Esteem: The New Reformation
21. Dr. John Stott on Hel
22. Review of Walter C. Kaiser’s Toward an Exegetical Theology: Biblical Exegesis for Preaching and Teaching
23. The “Very Pernicious and Detestable” Doctrine of Inclusivism
24. Why The Roman Catholic Church Is a Threat Only to Roman Catholics and a Non-Threat to Everyone Else
25. What’s Wrong With Islam?

Render to Caesar...Render to God

Spoke the other evening on Mark's account of how the Lord Jesus responded to the hypocritical questioning of the Herodians and Pharisees. What an off the map response - even His enemies were bowled over by His wonderful wisdom. Not for the Lord the Newsnight politicans side stepping answering. He gives them an answer that shows them the real and greatest need.

13 And they sent to him some of the Pharisees and some of the Herodians, to trap him in his talk. 14 And they came and said to him, "Teacher, we know that you are true and do not care about anyone’s opinion. For you are not swayed by appearances, but truly teach the way of God. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not? Should we pay them, or should we not?" 15 But, knowing their hypocrisy, he said to them, "Why put me to the test? Bring me a denarius and let me look at it." 16And they brought one. And he said to them, "Whose likeness and inscription is this?" They said to him, "Caesar’s." 17Jesus said to them, "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s." And they marveled at him.

Now what was this all about? There seem to be a few opinions doing the rounds. I like how Tim Keller ties it in with a revolt by Judas the Galilean in AD6, the year that this Poll tax was introduced. Judas the Galilean had called on all Jews not to pay, he was speaking about the kingdom of God and had on one occasion cleared the temple. Obviously the Romans were a bit annoyed with him and took him out of circulation. Revolutionaries were not that popular to say the least. And now comes this Jesus person, He too has been speaking about the kingdom of God, He too has just cleared the temple and now they come and ask - so what do you think about the poll tax? What they are basically asking is - are you a revolutionary too?

In light of that the Lord's answer is so amazing. If He answers yes they will take Him out of circulation too. If He says no the many Galilean supporters that He has will become rather non plussed by His teaching.

So when the Lord answers as He does with neither a yes or no, yet really answering the question, what He is saying is - Yes I am a revolutionary but not the sort of revolutionary that you are thinking about. His revolution is of an entirely different order.

Look at how He answers. Bring me a coin (he doesn't have one of His own!) Whose image (icon) is this? And when they answer Caeasar they have answered their own question. Of course they should pay the tax - the coin for paying it has his image on it - so give him what he deserves (render). Indeed since they already have a denarius and are using it they are already showing that they are under Roman rule. So give him what he deserves, but not what he really wants. That is why the Lord speaks about the inscription. Every coin in Roman usage had an insription about Caesar being God and being a high priest. So they could give him His tax but not what he wanted - worship and total allegiance.

But the Lord was saying something much more - render to God the things that are God's. Just as the image of Caesar is on his coin and you are to give him what he deserves, so by implication every human being who is stamped with the image of God is to give to God what He deserves - every part of our lives.

There is only one revolution that is worth signing up for. That is the one that the Lord Jesus Christ has - one of knowing and serving the Lord of the nations. And how could we ever in our sin be His servants? That is the gospel - He who was rich, yet for our sakes became poor, so that we through His poverty could become rich. His death on the cross sorts out the horror of our rebellion, He bore the punishment for the sins of many, so that sinners like you and me would not have to pay the penalty for our rebellion. He alone is the true high priest, the Pontifex Maximus, great bridge builder. This great King calls you to fall before Him and trust Him alone for salvation and to become a servant in the revolution that is really changing the world.

That is just a quick summary. I will preach the passage soon. For all young RPs if you didn't get the full version you would have if you had gone along to the CY conference!

No Turning Back - J. Philip Arthur

Yet another devotional commentary on Hebrews. This one is published by Grace publications and is about 240 pages in length. There are 30 short chapters full of material useful for a time of personal daily devotion. Not much here for sermon preparation. That is no criticism of a very well written book that will benefit all who read. Phil Arthur is a good communicator both in spoken and written word. He manages to do what many writers of devotional commentaries fail to do, that is, tie the whole book together. Using this in your daily devotions will give you a good handle on Hebrews and provide you with clear and revelevant application that is very challenging. Comparing it to the other four short devotional studies I have read on Hebrews recently, this one comes in a close second place after the Welwyn commentary. All in all a good buy and useful book to have on any family bookshelf. Costs about £9.00.

The Gospel of Ruth Carolyn Custis James

On my second preaching tour of Ruth I thought I would get a few new commentaries to spark my thinking. Bought David Jackman in the Preacher's Commentary series, Lawson Younger in the NIV Application Commentary series and Ian Duigid in the Reformed Expository Commentary series. All quite useful and have helped in putting together an entirely new series of sermons. But one surpasses them all, namely, "The Gospel According to Ruth" by Carolyn Custis James. Tremper Longman III's note on the cover assured me I had bought at least reasonably wisely. He writes, "a compelling and rivitting read." And that is exactly what it is. The author relies heavily on Hubbard's useful and detailed commentary but then writes in the most spell bounding manner. I honestly couldn't put it down. It is just over 200 pages in length, so it is not a doorstoper in size but in application and in giving new insights it is unsurpassable. I wish I had come across this before I preached on Ruth the last time - but since it has only appeared this year from Zondervan and I last preached on Ruth over five years ago I am excused. Having said that, in light of things I have gleaned from this book I think I will have to apologise to Naomi when I meet here. She was not the backslidder I previously labelled her as. I see her now through new eyes as a woman of faith, a female Job with much to teach us even in her shakier moments. Every man intending to preach through Ruth needs to read this. If you have a wife give it to her when you have finished. Carolyn Custis James is an expert in getting to the heart of the gospel from this fascinating OT narrative. All you young fellas who read this blog should get this and read it thoroughly. If you are not married and praying that the Lord will give you a spouse then you need to know how to recognise a stunner like Ruth.

I'm off now to order on line Carolyn Custis James two other books "The women we thought we knew" and "When Life and Beliefs Collide." I will turn the pages carefully and then be able to give them to my Ruth life wife as a gift. Don't tell her!

Even a Little Light

Preaching through Ruth over these past weeks. Purchased a very insightful little book by Carolyn Custis James (I will review it in total when I am finished it) which has stirred up some thoughts on witnessing. I have been thinking of Ruth's wonderful conversion. What was it that the Lord used to bring this woman to faith in the God of the Covenant? She had no Guest Service to be invited to, no Bible to read, no tract to crumple and stuff in her pocket, no on line message to tap into. So what was the tool in the hands of the God of salvation? Quite simple really - a Christian family that came to town - a man and wife and two sons. They were far from the perfect family. No doubt their pastor, if they had had one, would have been really dispondent about their sojourning in Moab. But Ruth saw in them something that she had never witnessed in Moab before. She saw a distinct difference when she entered that family of believing Israelites. When she heard their history, watched them interact with one another and their new neighbours and most of all observed them in the face of death she knew that there was something that they had and that she needed.
Yes they were far from perfect. But when you are living in deep darkness as was Ruth's situation even a little light can be a great light and a powerful tool in the hand of the Lord who delights in the rescuing of sinners and who takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked.
This thought is not to make us sloppy Christians, but to cause us to take heart in our stumbling along and indeed in our failures. Perhaps there is a Ruth observing you and your family just now. Oh that soon you would here them say - Your God will be my God.

"Nothing is Predestined in Politics"???

BBC correspondent Jim Fitzpatrick commenting recently on the ogoing saga of the Paisley dynasty made an interesting passing comment that most will simply nod in agreement to. "Yet - apologies here to Calvinists for I don't mean this in the theological sense - nothing is predestined in politics."
Obviously Mr Fitzpatrick has spoken with a few Calvinists in his day but he has not been listening correctly or they have been rather feeble Calvinists. Of course we understand the sentiment behind the comment, namely that things are so unpredicable in the political arena. But what every man, woman and child and indeed every politician needs to know, including the Paisley dynasty is that they only hold power so long as they serve the purposes of the sovereign Lord, King Jesus.
Who knows what purposes the Lord has in the sham of Stormont, but one thing is for sure, everything is predestined in politics. A simple reading of the latter part of Daniel proves that beyond all doubt - that the Lord sets in place whoever He wills and when they have served His purposes they pass from the scene. In fact one of the primary emphasies of Daniel is that every system that sets itself up in opposition to the ways of the King of kings will in due course w crumble and come tumbling down. Mr. Fitzpattrick like all of us needs to know that everything is predestined in politics, we can rest in peace knowing that He has purposes even in shambolic situation of Stormont. So often the work of God is a mingling of judgement and mercy. And in our political situation perhaps the judgement is - this is just the sort of governing mess that we deserve - while in mercy and grace we have a measure of peace when the gospel can flow freely.

Are you Keeping the Sabbath - are you Reaching out?

Struck recently by a wonderful little phrase of Charles Hodge (Systematic Theology III:330) "If men wish the knowledge of [Jesus resurrection] to die out, let them neglect to keep holy the first day of the week; if they desire that event to be everywhere known and remembered, let them consecrate that day to the worship of the risen Saviour."
He has got it in one. Look at the mess of our nation and the state of the churches - is Sabbath breaking not at the heart of the issue? The gospel languishes in so many parts of these islands. So many Christians are emaciated and weak with neither energy or desire to share the good news - and all because of a broken Sabbath. When Christians hold this day sacred to the Lord, for His work and worship then this pagan world can't help but notice.
Why do you not play your sports? Why do you not do your shopping? Why do you not do your studying? Why do you not do your usualy work? Why do you not do your visiting and partying? Why do you go to worship at your church morning and evening? The answer is so simple - THE LORD JESUS CHRIST HAS BEEN TO THIS EARTH, HE HAS DIED FOR SINNERS, GOD RAISED HIM FROM THE DEAD ON THE FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK AND I HAVE NO DESIRE FOR ANYTHING ELSE BUT TO CELEBRATE HIS GREAT AND GLORIOUS NAME AND WORK.
So don't be sucked in by the cunning schemes of the devil to have a day doing your own thing, lying in your pit, recovering from a busy week, it is to be the wonderful rest of change and a day totally for Him. Try it and you will see that a day given to Him. A day given to His worship, publicly and privately, a day given to prayer and study of the Word. Not only will you be well sabbathed but the change in you may well mean that others will be pointed more to the one who gives ultimate rest.

When I Saw Him

Preached yesterday on Revelation 1v9-20, or should I say, tried to preach on Revelation 1v9-20. What an amazing portrait of the Lord Jesus Christ. The general thrust of the "impressionists portrait" John writes down is a majestic, mighty, glorious, Lord who is coming to judge. One who sees all that there is to see in His church, one who has the power to act, one whose actions as Judge will one day be seen by all. What strikes me most in the passage is John's response, When I saw Him I fell down as though dead. No happy clappy dancing in the isles, no swinging hands and swaying bodies, no dour faced praise, no expressionless singing, no stampeed for the carpark, no hypnotic induced collapsing, no pally wally Jesus is my best buddy - but a man overcome by the presence of Him who is Lord of all.
And that is what the church needs more than anything - to see Him. That is what would shake us from our lethargy, that is what would stir our praise and fill our lives with joyful service. No minister would ever again have to encourage attendance at the means of grace, no programmes would have to designed to pretend that something is happening in the church. And how will we see Him? Not in a vision or dream but on the pages of our Bibles and when preachers learn to preach Christ from all the Scripture. Lord make me a Christ focussed preacher should be the daily prayer of every gospel minister. Lord make my minister a man who speaks Christ in every syllable the prayer of every church member. Mighty God send down your Spirit that He might grant us the eye to see what has been forever recorded in the pages of our Bibles, pictures of Him that will traumatise us to praise and live for the Lord Jesus Christ.

Disciplines of a Godly Man by Kent Hughes

I have been working through this book with some of the men from the church over the past year. Most helpful and thoroughly rooted in the Word. One or two of the chapters need a bit of a tweak here and there but aside from that this is a very useful tool to stir up men to flex a bit of spiritual muscle.
One of the dangers of a book like this is that it all becomes a bit of "do, do, do" and it is easy to forget that the gospel is "done, done, done." Hughes tries to balance this in the very last chapter. I think it needs emphasised constantly that all that we do is because of the gospel, and in thanksgiving for the gospel because the gospel of grace has changed our lives. If the reader bears these things in mind this is a useful read for a man on his own or to work through with a few others. Like all "how to books," you can come to the end of it having entirely forgotten what was at the start.

Called to the Ministry

I have been thinking a lot of recent times about what constitutes a call to the ministry. I have heard many speak on the subject over the years and read bits and pieces. There seems to be a great deal of emphasis on a subjective inner call, feeling, compulsion, and an awaiting for "the call." I have to be honest, at present I find this hard to square with the message of the Bible. Any Scriptural references quoted are for the prophets and all know that they had a unique roll and place in redemptive history.
From Ephesians 4 it appears that the pastor teacher is equipped to equip the people of God. Surely that equipping of God is therefore a huge part of a call to the ministry. The Lord Jesus Christ equips certain men so that they will be able to equip the people of God through the Word. My understanding is that a call to the ministry of the gospel constitutes three main areas: equipping for the job, calling of the church and inward desire. Where these are present surely a man can say that he has been called to the ministry. So what are the gifts for gospel ministry? Many launch straight for - preaching and teaching. Obviously they are central but on their own they are not sufficient. Does a man have wisdom. Has he been equipped to handle the complexities of the life of the church. Too often men have begun in the ministry only to come unstuck in a short period of time or cause great havoc simply because they lacked wisdom. This is where the roll of the church is so vital. The elders of a church ought to be able to discern not only can a man preach - but is he wise. Does he know what the Word says and know how that Word is to be worked out in life.
Another thing on ministry. There seems to a growing influence to wait until a man is older, has experience of life. Granted there may be situations where this is wise, it was so in my own case. But the other side of the matter is - a young man gifted for ministry and growing in grace as he trusts in the Lords strength can have a whole lifetime of ministry if he enters college as soon after university as possible. Of course such advice has huge implications for young men, men in their late teens - be redeeming the time now, grow now, read now, learn to pray now so that you will be ready to go into the ministry at the first possible opportunity.
Just some rambling thoughts. I trust that they might do a little stirring.

Thought of Anything for Your Grave Stone?

Yesterday morning I went to hear Pastor Geoff Thomas giving a guest lecture at the Reformed Theological College. Many of the things that he said about pastoral ministry were most helpful and stimulating. He gave seven points on how to preach and pastor in the 21st century:

1. Humbly thank God that you have been called to the ministry.

2. Love your people.

3. Seeking the Annointing of the Holy Spirit.

4. Don't rest without success in your ministry.

5. Live a holy life.

6. Be a man of prayer.

7. Preach the gospel.

All the points were excellently illustrated from his own experience of the ministry and with accounts from history. But it was the little asides that caught me mind.

At the close of the address he recounted what he would like placed on his grave stone, "God created me, sin ruined me, grace restored me." Just nine words to keep on preaching the glorious gospel of Christ when the preacher has passed from this earth.

If the Lord tarries after we leave this earthly scene some will visit our graves, some may even shed a tear at the parting, some will come to cut the grass, some will come researching a family tree, some just looking for solitude. Wouldn't it be wonderful if someone was pointed to Christ from the place on this earth where our mortal remains were resting in the earth, still joined to Christ and awaiting His coming.

So why not do some thinking so that though you being dead yet still speaketh.

The Salvation of Souls - Jonathan Edwards

This absolutely fantastic little hardback book published by Crossway Books is a series of nine previously unpublished sermons on the call of ministry and the gospel. Each sermon is given a careful and informative introduction setting the scene of where, why and when the sermon was preached. For young men considering the gospel ministry there is a lot of helpful material here. It should be compulsory reading for any man in training for the ministry. For men in ministry there is a lot here to sharpen the focus of your life, particularly the very last sermon entitled, "The work of the ministry is saving sinners." This is also a helpful book for ministers to get ideas from when asked to preach at an ordination and or installation.

As I read again some Edwards I am reminded of one great regret that I have in my mid forties, namely that I didn't read Edwards in my formative years. If you have good eyesight buy the two Banner volumes. If you have excess money buy one of the Yale edition books of sermons. Even if you only buy one a year. They will knock you back about £50-60 a volume. If you can read on line all Edwards material will soon be on line. Personally I think that buying one or two volumes of the Yale version each year would be the best idea. If you haven't read any Edwards before start with Marsden's marvellous biography.

Suicide - When Hope Seems Gone

A recent BBC report gave the tragic information that 900 young men take their lives in the UK every year. For young men between 18-30 it is the second most common way to die. The National Director for mental health noted that we have an "epidemic of young male suicide." Many have presented their opinions concerning these sad statistics. Some say that men are conditioned from childhood not to share their feelings and never come looking for help. While there may be some truth in that it is hardly the underlying reason. Prof Appleby, the National Director for mental health is surely getting closer when he comments "they have lost their ties to society, work, family and friends." But again is this the root reason?

In many of the tragic cases where people take their own lives the cry is one of despair, all hope seems gone. Now why would people think that way? Could it be that the ongoing attempts of society to do away with God has left this haunting vacuum of despair. If there is no God, there is no truth, there is no right and wrong, no purpose, no future. That is where the godless educational system of our day has taken our society.

But for the person over come with feelings of all hope being gone they need to know that there is one who brings hope. His name is the Lord Jesus Christ. When He walked this earth often He mingled with the no hopers of this world, the despised and the lonely, the forgotten and the failing. He made a wonderful offer to such people, Come to Me and I will give you rest. With the Lord Jesus Christ men and women are made into new creations, made part of a wonderful new society, given a new family of the church. All who trust in Him to deal with their sin He promises to give hope and a future to. All who come to Him and follow Him He promises never to leave nor forsake. So if you read this and you are feeling that all hope is gone, be assured that it is not - for Jesus Christ is the same yesterday today and forever.

The Hand of God - F.S. Leahy, Banner of Truth

For three years between 1991 and 1994 I had the priviledge of having the late F.S. Leahy as my Systematics prof at the Reformed Theological College, Belfast. This, the last book to come from his pen before his sudden home calling is filled with the thoroughness study and devotion for Christ that I remember his lectures to have been. As the title suggests this book traces the workings of the Sovereign God in the world and in the life of His people.

Every chapter is written in the prof's characteristic clear, concise and compassionate style. When I read the chapter on guidance it was just like the day I went to speak with him looking for advice on how to discern the will of God on an important choice that lay before me. "David, do you believe that God guides?" "Yes, Professor." "Then pray that He will guide you, use the mind that the Lord has given you, make your decision and know for sure that He has guided you." I did what he said and found great blessing.

Every chapter is woven together by a man who knew the Word so thoroughly. Each of the clear stacato sentences has been carefully crafted and compassionately set before the reader. Each chapter has a little nugget, a dazzling gem to stir the thoughts, a perceptive comment mined from decades of servant leadership amongst the people of God. As each nugget appeared I could see the Prof in my memory. That critical moment in the lecture. For thirty minutes he wouldn't have wavered from the text printed on the hand out. Then came the pause. The hand slowly raising to that inside pocket of his neat jacket where his shining Parker pen always resided. It was then carefully laid under the line of the text to mark his place and then came the jewel we had been waiting for. If only I had noted them down.

This marvellous book has many of those pen moments that kept his students on the edge of their seats.

This little Banner book of some 207 pages is gold dust from beginning to end. Read it, and take to heart for the blessing of your soul

The Message of Hebrews Raymond Brown BST

A 272 page easy read commentary of Hebrews. The book divides into 27 chapters which are short enough to cover in a time of personal devotion. For the preacher looking for a way to divide up the text Brown is quire good. He teases out well some of the Greek with clear application to the life of the reader. Not that strong on giving the overall thrust of the book and tying the various sections together. Not too many nuggets to note but as far as giving a general handle on the book it does a reasonable job. Useful for a youth leader or home group leader preparing studies. For any wanting to preach on Hebrews you better go for the big boys. I plan to give you a review of some of these in due course.

Facebook and Fellowship

All over the world men and women and young people are in search of community. Within each of us beats a desire to be known and to know others in a deep and satisfying manner. In a past generation this was displayed in meeting at the local corner or in the proliferation of public houses up and down the country. Today the longing for community is displayed in cyberspace. Myspace was at one time signing up 500,000 new users a week. Bebo advertises itself as a social media network where friends share their lives. Friends Reunited uk claims to have 19 million old friends listed. All in the quest for community. Why such a strong desire that displays itself in so many different ways? The answer is simple - we are wired for community. When God created man, though he was perfect, in a perfect world and in contact with God for he had no sin we are given the startling information in Genesis 2v18 It is not good for man to be alone. Made in the image on God we are designed to have meaningful and satisfying contact with others. Sadly our sin has spoiled everything and every effort to connect with others quickly gets marred and does not satisfy.
So where is the answer? In the gospel, in I John 1v3 we read, We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ. When we are restored to fellowship with God through faith alone in Christ alone we are linked with other Christians in true fellowship.
The local church is God's visual tract to the world. The world ought to be able to look at your church and mine and be blown away by the unity amidst our diversity. They ought to see in all our local churches where true community is found and how to true community can be experienced. Your congregation is God's facebook for the lost world the one place where people can truly share their lives that God is remaking. Your church is to show that it is possible for enemies to be reunited - that is how it was in the NT church with Jew and Gentile sitting together, lovingly caring and providing for one another.

God's Man of Influence Book Review

God's Man of Influence, Jim George, Harvest House Publishers, £8.50

This is the first Jim George book that I have read. He and his wife seem to have a whole series. While initially it seems light and lacking in any substance it is a very genuine attempt to help men not to friter away their days but to do something with their lives. The book consists or 19 short chapters with a study sectin tagged on at the end. He covers a range of subjects: obedience, challenges, discipline, purpose, plan, temptation, serving, mentoring etc. While not the best written book in the world I found this thought prevoking and stimulating. It is a sort of 5 minute a day book, read a chapter on the bus book, take on vacation book. While a tad American in places Jim George has some helpful comments throughout. Useful to do as part of your daily devotions and also to study alongside someone. Best read with a pen and notebook and most especially on your knees confessing your sin and asking that God in His sovereign mercy would give you grace to make an impact for Him.

Blogging and Jogging

Let us run with perseverance the race set out for us. Perhaps for some who read this blog your Christian life has been a bit like my running of late. A few aches and pains during the summer made me ease up on the miles. The hectic pace of autumn schedule made me slack off even further. When the Christmas holidays came the plug was virtually pulled and the pounds piled on. Now a few weeks into the new year and it is time to press on - three short runs this week and a game of five aside that left me walking like the proverbial octogenarian.

Amidst a run tonight in the driving rain I thought - how just like the Christian life - a few distractions, often legitimate and the quiet times drops, the pressure of work and the commitment ease off again and week by week the spiritual flab begins to appear, the pace of devotions ease back and the spiritual life splutters further into ill health.
So if you are easing up let the madness of a middle aged man out running on a wet and windy Friday evening drive you back to the training that far surpasses the training of the body and run with perseverance the race set out for you.

Four Devotional Commentaries on Hebrews

There are a whole range of commentaries available for studying Hebrews. Over the past few months I have been easing myself into the book trying to get to grips with the themes and structures. I decided to start my studies at purely a devotional level. To that end I have over the past few months made my way through four of the devotional commentaries that are available.
A Glorious High Throne, Edgar Andrews, Welwyn Series, Evangelical Press
Hebrews, Walter Riggans, Focus on the Bible, Christian Focus
Hebrews - A Call to Commitment, William L. Lane, Hhendriksen Publishers
Hebrews, Hywel R. Jones, Let's Study Series, Banner of Truth
All of these light devotional commentaries are useful for quiet time studies but not for serious sermon preparation. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses.
Lane is good for showing the overall structure of the book and how the sections link together. Riggans is useful for giving some of the Greek words at a very simple level. Jones I found least helpful though sound throughout. My favourite was Andrews A Glorious High Throne. An easy read, well broken up and helpful application. Excellent for personal devotions.

Washing by the River - Redeeming the Time

Every night at tea time I set my dinner plate on a place mat that has been speaking to me for years - only now am I getting the picture. The place mat has an old image printed on it of my home town. The interesting thing is that the main street and other well known landmarks are all evident even though the image is from over 100 years ago. What really has been catching my eye is the women in the image - all down by the river washing their baskets full of clothes. No automatic washing machines then, not even a scrubbing board - just hour after hour scrubbing by the riverside talking to the other women folk.
Flash forward a century or more and what of all the women folk now - what do they do with all that extra time on their hands now that there is no going down to the river. How will all the free time be filled - watch another sordid episode of Loose Women, the brain numbing Trisha or Property in the Sun?
Don't get me wrong - I am not having a go at women folk. Just the lesson - what are we doing with the free time that all the modern conveniences brings to us - another episode of East Enders, another game on the play station, another game on the Wii.
At least the women at the river side were learning the art of conversation.
What of you and me in 2008 - will we redeem the time? Use those moments to read another chapter, have more time for prayer, have more time to share the joys of our family, talk to the neighbours and tell them the Good news of Christ crucified and risen.

No Little People Francis A. Schaeffer

Bought this book published by Crossway some months ago for a tenner and only now getting round to finishing it off. The book is a collection of Schaeffer's sermons -sixteen in all, which he preached at L'Abri in Switzerland. Some are better than others and most have those definite Schaeffer touches that open up unseen truths. The book is worth buying and reading for the last chapter, Ash Heap Lives. In this he challenges the reader to take a walk through a city dump - it is all the riches that people have wasted their lives gathering - don't waste yours.
This outing with Schaeffer has reminded me of student days at QUB back in the early 1980s when I first discovered Schaeffer and found his writings a lifeline amidst godless philosophy. I could hardly put down the small paperbacks: The God who is there, He is there and is not Silent, True Spirituality and The Church Before the Watching World. If you haven't read them yet - why not cash in a few selection boxes to some younger family member, return a few unwanted gifts to Next - gather the money and happy reading.

The Big Issue

Saturday 29th December’s Telegraph referred to the recent trouble between two Presbyterian ministers in Portadown as a “Presbyterian Pickle” and a “sad saga.” Many no doubt would agree that the whole saga is indeed a sad and sorry one and hope and pray that “good might come of it yet.” It is however a pickle that is easily resolved. Resolution of the matter and indeed good coming from it will only happen when the real issue is seen. To date the whole episode is being portrayed as an issue about gender, or conscience, or discrimination, or accommodation or church law.
While these may be issues that no doubt sell papers and grab the headlines, none of them come anywhere near the real issue. The big issue here is none of these blood pressure raising topics but something much more important. The real issue, the big issue is the authority of Scripture. The real issue is listening to what God says and not what we think might be best.
All of us have a natural and sinful bent that makes us imagine that we know better than God. The sooner we wise up to that fatal flaw in all our hearts the better. The God of the Bible is our loving, caring Creator. There is nothing to know that He does not know. In His love and kindness He has given to us the Scripture of the Old and New Testaments. The self declaring statement of the Bible is that it is the breathed out Word of God. Every sentence, every word, every jot and tittle given by God. “All Scripture is breathed out by God.” (II Timothy 3v16) That means that it is without error, thoroughly dependable and trustworthy for it is His Word. Since it is God’s Word it will not bring any harm, only good to those who will listen in humility.
In His remarkable book God has told us who He is, who we are, what has gone wrong with the world and most of all about the only answer, His Son the Lord Jesus Christ coming to earth to live, die and rise again. The Bible also gives clear instructions as to how the church is to function. God tells us who belongs to the church, how the church is to worship, how the church is to be governed.
In I Timothy chapter 2& 3 God makes it very clear that the leadership of the church is to be in the hands of suitable, Biblically qualified men. God has said that clearly. It is not that He is down on women or that somehow God is a little backward and behind the times. It has nothing to do with culture or the developments of society. God makes it crystal clear that He has set the order on the basis of how He created things and what happened at the Fall.
If only we would listen to what God says and not imagine that we know better. None of us can afford to sit on the fence when it comes to the authority of the Word of God. If the Bible is what it says it is – the breathed out Word of God, then we should to a man, and a woman, close our mouths, open our ears, humble our hearts.
Then there will be peace in the church and blessing for all.

Ebay Values - People are Basically Good

You can only imagine the excitement when I opened an email from ebay to be told that I had achieved five positive feedbacks. Only five more and I will receive my first feedback star (yippy do da!)Apparently all this positive feedback reinforces the ebay values. I was dying to know what that entailed so a followed the link:

We believe people are basically good.
We believe everyone has something to contribute.
We believe that an honest, open environment can bring out the best in people.
We recognise and respect everyone as a unique individual.
We encourage you to treat others the way you want to be treated.

Some interesting stuff! The theology of modern man is the ebay values system. Do they not read the papers or listen to the news. A perverted man murders five women whose lives have broken down - basically good? Do they never ponder their own thoughts - basically good?
According to ebay all we need is an honest and open environment to bring out the best in people - only one problem there - where does one find an honest and open environment when human beings are by nature dishonest.
Wouldn't it be wonderful to have an environment where people were accepted for who they were, where the best in them was drawn out, where all were treated as unique individuals who treated one another as they wished to be treated.
The Lord Jesus told a parable about all this - the Good Samaritan. The person asking the Lord the question that prompted the parable lived by ebay values - he was a works man - do your best and all will be well.
The whole purpose of the Lord's parable is to show that we can't live by ebay like values. The ideals are great but of ourselves we just can't do it. The message of the parable and indeed the Bible is that we are sinnners through and through - we are not good, we don't care what others can contribute, environment doesn't make us bad that is what we are, we don't respect others. We are in big trouble.
So is there any hope? Yes. The Lord Jesus came into the world to save men and women from the guilt and power of sin. In Jesus Christ there is new life. There is forgiveness from all our sin, a wonderful new standing before God, a way to please God and truly serve our fellow human beings in a manner that honours God.
So where will you find an environment where the best in people is brought out? According to the Bible that is what your local church is to be like.
The following verses will give you a true understanding who you are and what the Lord Jesus Christ does for sinners: Mark 7:20-23; Luke 10:25-37, Romans 3:9-31

Just in Case you Missed it

An American TV show just recently gave air time to report on a man who claims to be Jesus Christ. His name is Jose Luis de Jesus Miranda. His growing cult following lavish the former heroin and addictconvict with money and luxury goods. According to the cult leader there is no devil, sin has been destroyed and there is no hell. His followers say that all other religions must be destroyed.
What sadness that men and women, no matter how few, would get sucked in by such nonsense. How deseperately wicked and deceitful is the human heart.

It's All Your Fault Knoxy!

Dr. Harry Burns Scotland's chief medical officer has named and shamed one John Knox as the root cause of Scotland's negativity and cringe culture, "I think John Knox has a heavy burden to bear ... 'Oh doom and gloom'." The same article in the Scotsman (7.10.06) gave the top ten things for making people happy: marriage, sex, exercise, time with pets, gratitude, affirmation, chocolate, material wealth, friends and attainable goals.
No doubt Dr. Burns will be ordering in a load of exercise bikes and a containter or two of Dairy Milk to bring a smile to the face of the Scots.
It is not hard to imagine what sort of "Trumpet Blast" John Knox would make at the state of the land of Scotland and those in positions of authority. He would certainly not be silent - he "never feared the face of any man." What Scotland needs is not the top ten ways to feel a little happier - but be to brought to its knees, confess the horror of its iniquity and cry unto Knox's Saviour for grace and mercy. Only then will the happiness that brings peace to a man's soul come sweeping in over the heather.
Who knows - may in His infinite mercy God will give again to Scotland a Knox or a Wishart - let us pray so.

Amish Murder - God saw it all

"A voice is heard in Ramah, weeping and great mourning. Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted because they are no more." Matthew 2:18
"In his arrogance the wicked man hunts down the weak, who are caught in the schemes he devises....He lies in wait near the villages; from ambush he murders the innocent...His victims are crushed; they collapse, they fall under his strength." Psalm 10 various verses.
The world weeps today at the aftermath of the crazed, murderous shooting spree of Charles Carl Roberts IV. Four little girls swept off into eternity by the wicked actions of a man bent on mayhem. Four sets of parents weeping for their precious daughters because they are no more. A community ravaged by the wickedness of man. A world watching in stunned silence, unable to grasp all of the horror. A world asking, Why, O LORD do you stand far off? (Psalm 10:1)
Psalm 10 is such a help in the face of such wickedness. God does see such trouble. He considers it to take it in hand. (Psalm 10:14) Charles Carl Roberts may have avoided the force of the American law system by his self murder, but he will not have avoided the judgement seat of God. He saw all that happened in that school room and justice will be done.
This same God is doing something about all the wickedness of our world. He has struck that fatal blow at sin 2000 years ago when Jesus Christ died on the cross. And this same Lord Jesus Christ will come again ushering any a new heaven and earth - and man who is of the earth will terrify no more.

This is as good as it Gets!

Yesterday Darren Clarke helped Europe win another Ryder Cup victory. Throughout the days of the competition he was understandably clapped and cheered at every hole. We can only admire the man for his fortitude in the face of the loss of his wife Heather. All of us feel great sorrow for this humble giant of a man. We can't even begin to imagine the heartache that he is going through. My ache this morning is even greater for him. Speaking after the victory he said, This is as good as it gets.
Oh what emptiness. Winning a trophy, playing well, having the help of a few golfing cronies and the adulation of the crowds - it is not the best it gets. Knowing Jesus Christ is the best it gets, standing before God robed with the righteousnes of Christ, freely pardoned from all my sin, adopted into the family of God, the Lord of heaven and earth as my Father, the Lord Jesus Christ as Saviour, Lord and Friend, being set in the midst of the family of God in my local church, being ready for heaven - this is AS GOOD AS IT GETS.
But even all this will be surpassed with the wonder of seeing Him and being captivated with the glimpse of His glory.
Oh that Darren Clarke would come to know that there is much better to get - and it is all free in the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ our Lord.

Justification

Biblical teaching on Justification is virtually non existent today in many churches. It is blurred by many claiming to be evangelical and attacked head on by Wright and his mates.
More and more I meet people who all their lives have attended evangelical churches and they haven't the foggiest notion of what justification means. Shame on those of us who preach that this hasn't been embedded in the minds of our listeners.
There is no better definition than the one put together by Westminster divines for the weak minded in the Shorter Catechism (Answer 33), Justification is an act of God's free grace, wherein He pardoneth all our sins and accepteth us as righteous in His sight, only for the righteousness of Christ imputed to us and received by faith alone.
If you are a serious minded Christian you will want to read and read all that you can on this subject. It will transform your life and warm your heart.
Some books that will be helpful:
Justification by Faith Alone, Philip Eveson, DayOne Publisher
Counted Righteous in Christ, John Piper, IVP
Not Guilty, James Buchanan, Grace Publications.
You will read these books in a few evenings.
For any students out there - (Steelo etc) - with loads of time on their hands.
Justification - James Buchanan - Banner of Truth
John Owen - Volume 5
If you have an mp3 player - download Edward Donnelly's four addresses on Justification and listen to until you know them off by heart.
These books and sermons will put theological steel in your mind and a glow of praise in your heart.

Door to Door - Some thinking please!

On Monday evenings from mid April to mid September we go out for an hour or so to make contact with the people of our town seeking to present the gospel. We have tried all sorts of approaches to stir up conversation. No doubt there are many who are more gifted at this than we are and we could learn a great deal in improving the way that we do this. It is tough work - not because we are no good at it but because men and women are dead in trespasses and sins.
Each evening we face the wearying, conversation stopping reply, "Naw I never think about those things."
They are being truly honest - they don't think. Thinking for sinful man is a superficial thing - how do I get, and to coin an American phrase, How do I can what I get.
So why do people not think? It is not that they can't. (Though the Fall has left teh old thinking box very befuddled.) Ultimately the devil has blinded the minds of unbelievers. The devil has various means for doing this brain robbery. Entertainment - that is what people think about - how can I be entertained, how can I feel good for a little while. The proverbial "goggle box" is the devil's most effective weapon in this war for people's brains. It sucks the thinking juice out and replaces it with sound bite opinions that amount to the hollow wisdom of man.
Yes we need to keep going door to door, didn't Paul. Yes we need to learn how to draw people out in conversation. But above all we need to pray that the Lord Himself will send out His Spirit to awaken the living dead that by grace they might become right thinkers.

Lack of Goats Made me do it

A Swiss man speeding on a Canadian highway has made use of a age old ploy for being caught red hand - "passing the buck" - or in this case "passing the goat!" The traffic officer on the scene of the offence could hardly believe what he had to write in his notes. The Swiss driver said that he was taking advantage of the lack of goats compared to back home.
Behind this amusing incident is Adam's fallen response to guilt - The woman you put here with me - she gave me some fruit from the tree and I ate it. Eve also used the goat trick - the serpent deceived me and I ate.
Every evening on national news we hear the same goat trick - the circumstances made him do it...if they had more jobs there would be peace and harmony in the community.
And if truth be told it is something that comes so naturally to all of us.
Peace is not found in this age old strategy but coming clean with God - I did it. I broke your law and deserve your holy and righteous wrath. Having come clean with God we are then to go to Him for what we don't deserve - pardon. That is what God graciously gives to all who trust His Son - for He has paid the price, freely taken the punishment for law breakers like you and I.
So no more goating about. Plead mercy in Christ and it will be graciously given.

Book Review Your God is too Safe Mark Buchanan

Well answer the man's title - is your God too safe? If you want a book to blow some of the dust and cobwebs from your Christian life then this is it. If you are happy with mediocrity in the Christian life, lurching along in the shadows then don't even read the title of this book. I read this book over the summer and was rivetted by the challenging messages. Buchanan writes with vivid expression and mind capturing illustrations. Though I can't say that I would always have agreed with his exegesis of passages he does provide in nearly every chapter a most refreshing way of looking at familar Bible accounts. His basic theme for this book is that many Christians are living a borderland existence, stuck in the rut of lack of passion, power and freedom. So if you are ready for a good shake up, spend a tenner and hold on tight.

Stinging Reminder

Many of us listened with shock and sorrow to hear of the sudden death of the "Crocodile Hunter," Steve Irwin. His TV documentaries entertained and informed a whole generation of wild life lovers. The world will miss his daring and dazzling performances in the face of the most dangerous animals on the planet.
Mr. Irwin's work, that he obviuously loved, and his tragic death are a reminder of the words of Psalm 8. In that psalm the song writer speaks of how the world was when God created all things. The song refers to man as "ruler over the works of your (God's ) hands." As ruler over creation everything was under his control, "all flocks and herds, and the beasts of the field, the birds of the air and the fish of the sea, all that swim the paths of the seas." The idyllic picture of the psalm is far from what we have seen on Mr. Irwin's TV shows and far from his shocking death by one of God's creation. Why this change in God's created order with man now in fear and animals striking out at God's viceregents? The message of the Bible is that man has messed up. Adam's sin and ours has ruined creation itself. But thank God that Psalm 8 also speaks of an answer. Psalm 8 is ultimately about the Lord Jesus Christ, "made a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned with glory and honour." His entrance into this world was the answer to man's sin and a creation out of kilter with man. In Christ there is cleansing from all our sin. So great was His work on the cross that when He returns He will bring such an amazing change to the created order that the Bible speaks of it as the lamb and lion lying down together. When He comes there will be no dangerous animals, no poisonous barbed stingrays. He wants all who read this to be ready for His coming and to enjoy His new creation. There is one way to be ready - by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Book Review Marriage Divorce & Remarriage in the Bible by Jay E. Adams

Perhaps the most difficult pastoral issues of the Christian ministry arise over the subject of Jay Adams' book. Unless we grapple Biblically and prayerfully with these complex matters we will be ineffective in reaching a messy world and unsupportive of Christians who are facing these issues. Jay Adams book helps the church not to bury its head in the sand but to face up to the matters in a thoroughly Biblical way. While this book does not cover every possible situation there are sound principles that we can take and apply to situations that we face. This book would be a good read for elders seeking to handle such sensitive matters within their own sphere of oversight. It is also essential reading for any Christian who is seeking to bring Biblical light and Christ centred love to those who are hurting and longing for real answers and not the craft of empty humanistic counselling.