Today's short thoughts will focus on Hebrews 11:7 as I continue my journey of blogging through this wonderful Book of the Bible. It is here that the writer references one of the most dramatic events of human history when he writes of Noah and his faith. It is here that he is inspired to write, "By faith Noah, being warned by God about things not yet seen, in reverence prepared an ark for the salvation of his household, by which he condemned the world, and became an heir of the righteousness which is according to faith."
In Noah we see the consistency of God's word. Noah is named amongst those who inherited righteousness through faith. Again we see faith and obedience, or faith and reverence working hand in hand. After being warned by God of something that Noah had never seen, Noah obediently carried out the building of the ark, anticipating that what God had spoken of would become a real part of history. Remember, in the definition given in the first verse of this chapter, we saw that faith involves the "conviction of things not seen". Noah had never seen with his own eyes the sort of event that God had spoken of, but he was convinced that it would be so. God had said it and he believed God!
Although it is another topic altogether, I feel I should comment briefly on another portion of this verse. I think sometimes that we tend to believe that the ark was so large because it had been built to carry so many people who had failed to respond to some invitation to enter it. In the Genesis account we see God instructing Noah to "make for yourself an ark" and that those who would enter would be himself, his wife, his three sons, their wives and the multitude of animals.
There were no empty rooms that lay unoccupied by those who had made some choice about entering or not. It seems clear that even Noah's wife and his sons and their wives had been chosen by the Lord to enter the ark on the basis of their relationship with Noah, the one man living at that time who "found favor in the eyes of the Lord". All of the glory belongs to the Lord God Almighty, but I believe that in Noah, God has profoundly demonstrated how significant the faith of one man might be. It is a high calling to be people of faith.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Monday, February 22, 2010
Short Thoughts for Today
Hebrews 11:6 will be the passage of scripture for today's short thoughts. It is here where the Hebrew author writes as follows; "And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him." Throughout scripture we find instances where specific word meanings are necessary to rightly understand a particular passage. In the present case, I doubt that one would need to explore the Greek or Hebrew language to understand the truth of the passage.
"Without faith it is impossible to please Him" declares the Lord through the Hebrew writer. The word of God establishes this as both a positional and experiential truth for the believer in Christ. Positionally and once for all time I have been found pleasing to the Father as He has clothed me in the righteousness of His Son Jesus by grace and through faith for salvation. As Peter spoke of Christ to the religious leaders in Jerusalem; "And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must be saved"
We are often prone to make the same mistake as the Galatian believers, having begun in the Spirit through faith and then taking on the task of being perfected by the flesh. But "without faith it is impossible to please Him" the scripture echos. At the time of our salvation we "obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand." We may continue to live by faith as there is more grace! Salvation itself was only our introduction to it. As the Apostle Paul wrote to the Colossians, "Therefore as you have receive Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him". By faith we received Him and by faith we are to walk in Him.
Through Paul's letter to the Galatians, the Lord graciously gave us these words describing the Christian life of faith; "I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me."
"Without faith it is impossible to please Him" declares the Lord through the Hebrew writer. The word of God establishes this as both a positional and experiential truth for the believer in Christ. Positionally and once for all time I have been found pleasing to the Father as He has clothed me in the righteousness of His Son Jesus by grace and through faith for salvation. As Peter spoke of Christ to the religious leaders in Jerusalem; "And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must be saved"
We are often prone to make the same mistake as the Galatian believers, having begun in the Spirit through faith and then taking on the task of being perfected by the flesh. But "without faith it is impossible to please Him" the scripture echos. At the time of our salvation we "obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand." We may continue to live by faith as there is more grace! Salvation itself was only our introduction to it. As the Apostle Paul wrote to the Colossians, "Therefore as you have receive Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him". By faith we received Him and by faith we are to walk in Him.
Through Paul's letter to the Galatians, the Lord graciously gave us these words describing the Christian life of faith; "I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me."
Friday, February 19, 2010
Short Thoughts for Today
In Hebrews 11:5, the passage for today's short thoughts, we read, "By faith Enoch was taken up so that he would not see death; AND HE WAS NOT FOUND BECAUSE GOD TOOK HIM UP; for he obtained the witness that before his being taken up he was pleasing to God."
As I considered this passage I concluded that I have something in common with Enoch and that I may one day yet have even more in common with him. By faith alone I am able to please God. By faith in Christ, His only begotten Son. By faith in the One of whom He said, "You are My beloved Son, in You I am well-pleased." Through the kind intention of His will, by grace and through faith, I am in Christ! What a position is mine. What a position is ours! May we never cease to marvel at this most grandest of truths.
There is also a chance that one day I will be amongst those who are living at the time of His coming. Speaking of our Lord's return, the Apostle Paul encouraged the Thessalonians, saying that "we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord." Yes, one day, like Enoch, I may be "not found" because I have been taken up. And like Enoch, faith (in Christ) will precede my being taken up. My He be praised!
As I considered this passage I concluded that I have something in common with Enoch and that I may one day yet have even more in common with him. By faith alone I am able to please God. By faith in Christ, His only begotten Son. By faith in the One of whom He said, "You are My beloved Son, in You I am well-pleased." Through the kind intention of His will, by grace and through faith, I am in Christ! What a position is mine. What a position is ours! May we never cease to marvel at this most grandest of truths.
There is also a chance that one day I will be amongst those who are living at the time of His coming. Speaking of our Lord's return, the Apostle Paul encouraged the Thessalonians, saying that "we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord." Yes, one day, like Enoch, I may be "not found" because I have been taken up. And like Enoch, faith (in Christ) will precede my being taken up. My He be praised!
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Short Thoughts for Today
Today's "short thoughts" come from one of my favorite verses of scripture. The passage is found in Hebrews 11:4, where the author begins to write of specific people and incidents of faith. In this verse we read, "By faith Abel offered to God a better sacrifice than Cain, through which he obtained the testimony that he was righteous, God testifying about his gifts, and through faith, though he is dead, he still speaks." Forgive me if my thoughts are a little lengthy today.
It appears obvious that Abel's sacrifice was better than Cain's because it was offered by faith. And perhaps equally obvious, is that Cain's sacrifice was inferior to Abel's because it was not offered by faith. In this account, faith and an obedient heart appear joined together as one. We cannot point to a particular verse of scripture and say for certain that God had given instructions regarding sacrifice.We might assume that He had revealed this to Adam and that Adam had taught his two sons. However, it does appear from the context of the account that each brother knew what God required. Abel had offered his sacrifice accordingly while Cain had not. Abel had believed God. Cain however, had chosen to sacrifice in a different manner, one of his own choosing. Cain failed to believe God.
But the lesson I would like to focus on today is the one that we find in the latter part of today's verse in Hebrews. It is a vital lesson for believers to learn. I have come to believe that it is one of the most important matters for the child of God to consider. It is a lesson that I know about, but one I am still in the process of learning. Today, I find myself in the year 2010 and through faith, Abel is still speaking. We must not allow this to go unnoticed. Abel has been dead for a few thousand years and yet he still speaks!
In short, here is the lesson I wish to convey. One day, save His coming, you and I will experience death. And we must understand, that though we lie dead one day, we will continue to speak. What will I speak? What will you speak? Will you and I be among those who speak through faith, of Christ and the riches of knowing Him? Will we speak of the glories found in serving Him and in enjoying fellowship with His people?
Perhaps you will speak to your spouse, your children, and your grandchildren or to other family members. Or maybe you will speak to a brother or sister in Christ, or to someone who knows not Christ now, but presently lies in darkness. I suggest that we will speak to many who remain after us. There is another side to this that I must address. Cain is also still speaking. He speaks not through faith and the glories of obedience but he speaks nonetheless. He speaks of disobedience and a life not of faith.
Like Abel and Cain, what we speak after we are dead will be determined by the life that we live now. We have not the option, after death, to speak something different than what we have spoken in life. May we consider this matter with sober mindedness and look to Christ and all He provides to live lives of faith. What a privilege will be ours; to live lives of faith in Christ and then continue to speak of Him through faith after we are gone. Praise God!
It appears obvious that Abel's sacrifice was better than Cain's because it was offered by faith. And perhaps equally obvious, is that Cain's sacrifice was inferior to Abel's because it was not offered by faith. In this account, faith and an obedient heart appear joined together as one. We cannot point to a particular verse of scripture and say for certain that God had given instructions regarding sacrifice.We might assume that He had revealed this to Adam and that Adam had taught his two sons. However, it does appear from the context of the account that each brother knew what God required. Abel had offered his sacrifice accordingly while Cain had not. Abel had believed God. Cain however, had chosen to sacrifice in a different manner, one of his own choosing. Cain failed to believe God.
But the lesson I would like to focus on today is the one that we find in the latter part of today's verse in Hebrews. It is a vital lesson for believers to learn. I have come to believe that it is one of the most important matters for the child of God to consider. It is a lesson that I know about, but one I am still in the process of learning. Today, I find myself in the year 2010 and through faith, Abel is still speaking. We must not allow this to go unnoticed. Abel has been dead for a few thousand years and yet he still speaks!
In short, here is the lesson I wish to convey. One day, save His coming, you and I will experience death. And we must understand, that though we lie dead one day, we will continue to speak. What will I speak? What will you speak? Will you and I be among those who speak through faith, of Christ and the riches of knowing Him? Will we speak of the glories found in serving Him and in enjoying fellowship with His people?
Perhaps you will speak to your spouse, your children, and your grandchildren or to other family members. Or maybe you will speak to a brother or sister in Christ, or to someone who knows not Christ now, but presently lies in darkness. I suggest that we will speak to many who remain after us. There is another side to this that I must address. Cain is also still speaking. He speaks not through faith and the glories of obedience but he speaks nonetheless. He speaks of disobedience and a life not of faith.
Like Abel and Cain, what we speak after we are dead will be determined by the life that we live now. We have not the option, after death, to speak something different than what we have spoken in life. May we consider this matter with sober mindedness and look to Christ and all He provides to live lives of faith. What a privilege will be ours; to live lives of faith in Christ and then continue to speak of Him through faith after we are gone. Praise God!
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Short Thoughts for Today
My previous "short thoughts" came from the first verse of Hebrews chapter eleven. Before looking at any of the specific persons, or acts of faith named in the chapter, today's thoughts will come from verses 2-3. As the Hebrew writer continues his introduction to this "chapter of faith", speaking of faith, he is inspired to write, "For by it the men of old gained approval. By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things which are visible."
I live at a very different time but I share something in common with these "men of old". I have also "gained approval" by faith. Through His grace, and by faith in the Lord Jesus I have been made a child of God. I have been adopted as a son through Jesus Christ. Praise the Lord for this great truth of scripture! Where would I be if it were not so? It is a dreadful thought indeed. How could I dare seek to gain approval some other way? I am so thankful that I find myself in Christ and sealed therein by the Holy Spirit of promise. I find that I am amongst a small but most privileged group of people in the world to whom God has seen fit to reveal the truth of His Son. Yes, I am amongst those who have found forgiveness of their sins in Christ.
A final thought on a truth the author speaks of in the third verse. The creation that is all around us is awe inspiring. Its vastness, majesty and intricacy is beyond our comprehension. But we must stop for a moment to consider that God created it out of nothing. Look to the highest mountain tops if you will or into the deepest of the seas. Consider man and all other created things that dwell upon the earth. Study their complexity. Gaze into the heavens with the most powerful of telescopes and consider the galaxies He allows us to see. Study the tides, gravity, weather, etc. But remember, "what is seen was not made out of things which are visible." There is no doubt in my mind that in this passage we are being challenged to consider the wonder of our Creator God, that we, along with the "men of old", may live lives of faith. Faith that is directed at Jesus, "the author and perfecter of faith".
I live at a very different time but I share something in common with these "men of old". I have also "gained approval" by faith. Through His grace, and by faith in the Lord Jesus I have been made a child of God. I have been adopted as a son through Jesus Christ. Praise the Lord for this great truth of scripture! Where would I be if it were not so? It is a dreadful thought indeed. How could I dare seek to gain approval some other way? I am so thankful that I find myself in Christ and sealed therein by the Holy Spirit of promise. I find that I am amongst a small but most privileged group of people in the world to whom God has seen fit to reveal the truth of His Son. Yes, I am amongst those who have found forgiveness of their sins in Christ.
A final thought on a truth the author speaks of in the third verse. The creation that is all around us is awe inspiring. Its vastness, majesty and intricacy is beyond our comprehension. But we must stop for a moment to consider that God created it out of nothing. Look to the highest mountain tops if you will or into the deepest of the seas. Consider man and all other created things that dwell upon the earth. Study their complexity. Gaze into the heavens with the most powerful of telescopes and consider the galaxies He allows us to see. Study the tides, gravity, weather, etc. But remember, "what is seen was not made out of things which are visible." There is no doubt in my mind that in this passage we are being challenged to consider the wonder of our Creator God, that we, along with the "men of old", may live lives of faith. Faith that is directed at Jesus, "the author and perfecter of faith".
Friday, February 12, 2010
Short Thoughts for Today
As I continue with my hope of "blogging" through the Book of Hebrews, I find myself beginning the eleventh chapter as I share some "short thoughts" today. I will only look at the first verse today, where the Hebrew author writes "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." It is by His grace, that the Lord has given us this biblical definition of faith.
First, a thought about the "things hoped for". As believers in Christ, I suppose that each of us could make a list of these things. The list could be short or be quite long. My short list would simply be the hope of seeing Christ face to face, as this is the hope of my faith. In addition to being "present with the Lord", my long list would include the privilege to serve Him, His promised return, meeting Him in the air, obtaining a resurrected body and eternal dwelling place, and the fulfillment of all He has promised, both in this life and for
eternity.
I have assurance of these things. My assurance is based on the character and attributes of Almighty God, His infallible word, and the finished work of Christ. He is the reason for the strong conviction ofthe "things not seen". I have not yet seen Him face to face but I will do so one day. I have not yet seen what it will be like meeting Him in the clouds but I know it draws nearer each day. I have not yet seen a resurrected body, but one day I will have one and see multitudes of others. I have not yet seen this place He is preparing for me but one day I will dwell there forever. I have not yet seen death, but I know that I have already passed from death unto life and that death has no dominion over me.
As I think of the "things not seen", I must say that I'm compelled to consider the things that are seen. I have seen Him change lives, including mine. I have seen Him answer prayers, including those from my lips. I have seen His faithfulness, including His faithfulness to me. I have seen the truth of His word, both in the world and in my life. I have seen Him give peace when there was none to be had. I have seen Him give hope when there was none in sight. I believe you know what I mean.
The assurance and conviction that we read about today does not somehow spring forth from within us, absent the Spirit of God. The flesh is quick to doubt, to question, to second guess and to not believe the things of God. Our assurance and conviction can only be found in Him. This is true because of the sureness and certainty of God. He has proven Himself faithful. It is the Creator, the One and only Sovereign who is our guarantee, our confidence and our security. No, I have not seen Him with my eyes, but I believe Him!
First, a thought about the "things hoped for". As believers in Christ, I suppose that each of us could make a list of these things. The list could be short or be quite long. My short list would simply be the hope of seeing Christ face to face, as this is the hope of my faith. In addition to being "present with the Lord", my long list would include the privilege to serve Him, His promised return, meeting Him in the air, obtaining a resurrected body and eternal dwelling place, and the fulfillment of all He has promised, both in this life and for
eternity.
I have assurance of these things. My assurance is based on the character and attributes of Almighty God, His infallible word, and the finished work of Christ. He is the reason for the strong conviction ofthe "things not seen". I have not yet seen Him face to face but I will do so one day. I have not yet seen what it will be like meeting Him in the clouds but I know it draws nearer each day. I have not yet seen a resurrected body, but one day I will have one and see multitudes of others. I have not yet seen this place He is preparing for me but one day I will dwell there forever. I have not yet seen death, but I know that I have already passed from death unto life and that death has no dominion over me.
As I think of the "things not seen", I must say that I'm compelled to consider the things that are seen. I have seen Him change lives, including mine. I have seen Him answer prayers, including those from my lips. I have seen His faithfulness, including His faithfulness to me. I have seen the truth of His word, both in the world and in my life. I have seen Him give peace when there was none to be had. I have seen Him give hope when there was none in sight. I believe you know what I mean.
The assurance and conviction that we read about today does not somehow spring forth from within us, absent the Spirit of God. The flesh is quick to doubt, to question, to second guess and to not believe the things of God. Our assurance and conviction can only be found in Him. This is true because of the sureness and certainty of God. He has proven Himself faithful. It is the Creator, the One and only Sovereign who is our guarantee, our confidence and our security. No, I have not seen Him with my eyes, but I believe Him!
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Short Thoughts for Today
In Hebrews 10:38-39 we read, "BUT MY RIGHTEOUS ONE SHALL LIVE BY FAITH; AND IF HE SHRINKS BACK, MY SOUL HAS NO PLEASURE IN HIM. But we are not of those who shrink back to destruction, but of those who have faith to the preserving of the soul." Today's "short thoughts" will come from these final two verses of chapter ten. They serve as somewhat of an introduction to Chapter 11, often referred to as "the faith chapter".
It is the will of God that we believe Him, trust Him, have faith in Him. We are called to live by faith and not by sight. As we have received Him by faith we are called to walk in Him by faith. He is worthy to be the object of our faith. He is worthy to be believed. Praise the Lord that ours is a faith "to the preserving of the soul" and "not of those who shrink back to destruction." But we may ask, why is this so? I will caution against any boasting. The Apostle Paul was inspired to write that he would only boast in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Yes, "Let him who boasts, boast in the Lord". My faith in Him is victorious because, "He who promised is faithful".
Today's passage does not suggest some sort of perfection that we must attain too in order to avoid "destruction". This "preserving of the soul" kind of faith is possessed by all who have believed, all who have been "born again". I have purposely limited this group to those who have "believed" according to the scriptural truth of salvation by grace through faith. Not all who have made a profession of faith are counted amongst those who have "believed in the testimony that God has given concerning His Son" and "The Lord knows those who are His". My soul is preserved because of His faithfulness. We are so blessed!
It is the will of God that we believe Him, trust Him, have faith in Him. We are called to live by faith and not by sight. As we have received Him by faith we are called to walk in Him by faith. He is worthy to be the object of our faith. He is worthy to be believed. Praise the Lord that ours is a faith "to the preserving of the soul" and "not of those who shrink back to destruction." But we may ask, why is this so? I will caution against any boasting. The Apostle Paul was inspired to write that he would only boast in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Yes, "Let him who boasts, boast in the Lord". My faith in Him is victorious because, "He who promised is faithful".
Today's passage does not suggest some sort of perfection that we must attain too in order to avoid "destruction". This "preserving of the soul" kind of faith is possessed by all who have believed, all who have been "born again". I have purposely limited this group to those who have "believed" according to the scriptural truth of salvation by grace through faith. Not all who have made a profession of faith are counted amongst those who have "believed in the testimony that God has given concerning His Son" and "The Lord knows those who are His". My soul is preserved because of His faithfulness. We are so blessed!
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Short Thoughts for Today
I appreciate the truth seen in the passage of scripture that is the basis for today's short thoughts. Divinely inspired, in Hebrews 10:37, the Hebrew author writes, "FOR YET IN A VERY LITTLE WHILE, HE WHO IS COMING WILL COME, AND WILL NOT DELAY." Go ahead and say, "Amen!" Go ahead and say, "Praise God!" Go ahead and say, "Thank you, Jesus!"
Yesterday I shared some thoughts regarding the necessity of endurance in Christian living. Before that, we discussed the "better" and "lasting" possession we have that transcends the conflicts and sufferings that can be ours this side of glory. But today we are reminded of a future event that's as sure as today's setting sun and the rising of the same tomorrow.
Assuring His disciples, Jesus had said, "If I go, I will come again and receive you unto myself that where I am you may be also." None of us can possibly know just how long a "very little while" is to the One who is eternal. But without a doubt, each day draws us nearer to His coming. We may not be able to mark it down a date and time certain on our calendars. But the certainty of its occurrence has been long established in His word and we
can look forward with assurance that, "HE WHO IS COMING WILL COME"!
Yesterday I shared some thoughts regarding the necessity of endurance in Christian living. Before that, we discussed the "better" and "lasting" possession we have that transcends the conflicts and sufferings that can be ours this side of glory. But today we are reminded of a future event that's as sure as today's setting sun and the rising of the same tomorrow.
Assuring His disciples, Jesus had said, "If I go, I will come again and receive you unto myself that where I am you may be also." None of us can possibly know just how long a "very little while" is to the One who is eternal. But without a doubt, each day draws us nearer to His coming. We may not be able to mark it down a date and time certain on our calendars. But the certainty of its occurrence has been long established in His word and we
can look forward with assurance that, "HE WHO IS COMING WILL COME"!
Monday, February 8, 2010
Short Thoughts for Today
As I continue to "blog" through the book of Hebrews, today's passage of scripture will be Hebrews 10:36. In this single verse the author is inspired to write, "For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised." Make no mistake about it and do not allow anyone to convince you otherwise, as believers in the Lord Jesus Christ, we have need of endurance! If you have recently come to know the Savior, you may not know what I am talking about. You will soon learn that doing "the will of God" is met with much opposition. There is opposition from the flesh, the world, and the devil.
But if you have been a Christian for any length of time, I suspect that you already know this truth. Similar admonishments are found throughout scripture. We are encouraged to not lose heart, to faint not, to hold fast, to stand firm and to persevere. We are called to keep seeking the things above, to keep sober in spirit and to press on towards the goal and towards maturity. The things that happen in a moment are positional truths. This would include our salvation, the forgiveness of our sins, our baptism in the Spirit, our entrance into the body of Christ, our position in the family of God, the establishment of our inheritance and the surety of all that is promised to those who are in Christ.
But the Christian life, although bathed in opportunities for abundance, necessitates endurance. Perhaps there is someone who is reading this right now that is saying, "I can't endure any longer". I will boldly yet lovingly say, that in and through Christ, you can. God calls us to endure but He desires not that we do so on our own, or that we attempt endurance in our own limited strength. He wishes to be our strength. Endurance is found
in Him. He may use His word or His Spirit, which dwells within us. Or He may choose to work though another member of the body of Christ as He sustains you. Welcome His provisions.
Remember that the famous words of the Apostle Paul are much more than just words. Divinely inspired, Paul wrote, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." I need not specify that "all things" include the endurance to do His will. Brothers and sisters in Christ, we will one day receive all that has been promised the children of God. With this hope before us, and the endurance that is found in Christ, let us seek to do His
will as we await His return.
But if you have been a Christian for any length of time, I suspect that you already know this truth. Similar admonishments are found throughout scripture. We are encouraged to not lose heart, to faint not, to hold fast, to stand firm and to persevere. We are called to keep seeking the things above, to keep sober in spirit and to press on towards the goal and towards maturity. The things that happen in a moment are positional truths. This would include our salvation, the forgiveness of our sins, our baptism in the Spirit, our entrance into the body of Christ, our position in the family of God, the establishment of our inheritance and the surety of all that is promised to those who are in Christ.
But the Christian life, although bathed in opportunities for abundance, necessitates endurance. Perhaps there is someone who is reading this right now that is saying, "I can't endure any longer". I will boldly yet lovingly say, that in and through Christ, you can. God calls us to endure but He desires not that we do so on our own, or that we attempt endurance in our own limited strength. He wishes to be our strength. Endurance is found
in Him. He may use His word or His Spirit, which dwells within us. Or He may choose to work though another member of the body of Christ as He sustains you. Welcome His provisions.
Remember that the famous words of the Apostle Paul are much more than just words. Divinely inspired, Paul wrote, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." I need not specify that "all things" include the endurance to do His will. Brothers and sisters in Christ, we will one day receive all that has been promised the children of God. With this hope before us, and the endurance that is found in Christ, let us seek to do His
will as we await His return.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Short Thoughts for Today
Today's passage of scripture for my "short thoughts" is found in Hebrews 10:32-35 where the author writes, "But remember the former days, when after being enlightened, you endured a great conflict of sufferings, partly by being made a public spectacle through reproaches and tribulations, and partly by becoming sharers with those who were so treated. For you showed sympathy to the prisoners and accepted joyfully the seizure of your property, knowing that you have for yourselves a better possession and a lasting one. Therefore, do not throwaway your confidence, which has a great reward."
If I had to summarize my thoughts regarding today's scripture in just a few short words I would say, remember the faithfulness of God and the treasures that are ours as members of the body of Christ! Like the original recipients of the letter, are there not times when we all need to "remember the former days"? Remember our salvation. Remember those times of earnest prayer and the answers to prayer we have experienced. Remember the joys of fellowship. The joy of singing together, reading and studying His word together or just enjoying all that we have in common with those who believe. Perhaps you will not agree, but we may need to remember the sorrows. Not for sorrow's sake but to remember the comfort of God that came through His word or through the life of a brother or sister in Christ, praying and weeping together as His will was sought.
As the writer is inspired to remind us in today's verses, we have for ourselves "a better possession and a lasting one". It cannot be taken away and we cannot be separated from it. The "confidence" or faith we have in the One who is forever faithful has "a great reward". All who have "walked in the Spirit" know this to be true. But something serious is implied both here and in other areas of God's word. The volition that is the believer's. So the writer admonishes all who may find themselves in such a situation, "do not throw away your confidence". I believe this confidence is ours to have but we ought not take it for granted. We should grow in it and cling to it. And when afforded the privilege we should be a help and not a hinderance to our brothers and sisters in Christ holding onto theirs.
If I had to summarize my thoughts regarding today's scripture in just a few short words I would say, remember the faithfulness of God and the treasures that are ours as members of the body of Christ! Like the original recipients of the letter, are there not times when we all need to "remember the former days"? Remember our salvation. Remember those times of earnest prayer and the answers to prayer we have experienced. Remember the joys of fellowship. The joy of singing together, reading and studying His word together or just enjoying all that we have in common with those who believe. Perhaps you will not agree, but we may need to remember the sorrows. Not for sorrow's sake but to remember the comfort of God that came through His word or through the life of a brother or sister in Christ, praying and weeping together as His will was sought.
As the writer is inspired to remind us in today's verses, we have for ourselves "a better possession and a lasting one". It cannot be taken away and we cannot be separated from it. The "confidence" or faith we have in the One who is forever faithful has "a great reward". All who have "walked in the Spirit" know this to be true. But something serious is implied both here and in other areas of God's word. The volition that is the believer's. So the writer admonishes all who may find themselves in such a situation, "do not throw away your confidence". I believe this confidence is ours to have but we ought not take it for granted. We should grow in it and cling to it. And when afforded the privilege we should be a help and not a hinderance to our brothers and sisters in Christ holding onto theirs.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Short Thoughts for Today
Although I chose to divide them due to their length, verses 28 through 31 of Hebrews, chapter ten are a continuation of verses 26 and 27 that I commented on yesterday. Here the author continues to address those who might "go on sinning willfully after receiving the knowledge of the truth" and the expectation of God's judgment that is before them. He writes, "Anyone who has set aside the Law of Moses dies without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. How much severer punishment do you think he will deserve who has trampled under foot the Son of God, and has regarded as unclean the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has insulted the Spirit of grace? For we know Him who said, "VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY" And again, "THE LORD WILL JUDGE HIS PEOPLE. " It is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God."
Perhaps there is no other judgment more severe for the one professing faith in Christ than to be judged by God as having "trampled under foot the Son of God" or to have "insulted the Spirit of grace". Today's passage suggests that this person "deserves" a "severer punishment" than those who where put to death for setting aside the Law of Moses! We may find some solace in knowing that God often tempers what we deserve with grace. But in this case there is no indication that we should expect so. We should only be terrified.
Only God has the right to make this judgment and determine and implement the punishment for it. I have seen men point to events in the lives of other believers and name them as indicators of God's judgment in their lives. I caution against such declarations. We have not the wisdom nor insight into the ways of the Almighty to make such determinations.
What I do believe to be true and what we have seen in these last two days is that God is sovereign and retains the right to judge His people. He does so rightly and justly. The Lord has declared that vengeance is His and that He will repay. This ought to be terrifying to the one who goes on sinning willfully.
Perhaps there is no other judgment more severe for the one professing faith in Christ than to be judged by God as having "trampled under foot the Son of God" or to have "insulted the Spirit of grace". Today's passage suggests that this person "deserves" a "severer punishment" than those who where put to death for setting aside the Law of Moses! We may find some solace in knowing that God often tempers what we deserve with grace. But in this case there is no indication that we should expect so. We should only be terrified.
Only God has the right to make this judgment and determine and implement the punishment for it. I have seen men point to events in the lives of other believers and name them as indicators of God's judgment in their lives. I caution against such declarations. We have not the wisdom nor insight into the ways of the Almighty to make such determinations.
What I do believe to be true and what we have seen in these last two days is that God is sovereign and retains the right to judge His people. He does so rightly and justly. The Lord has declared that vengeance is His and that He will repay. This ought to be terrifying to the one who goes on sinning willfully.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Short Thoughts for Today
Our Hebrew passage for today is found in Chapter 10 and verses 26-27 where we read, "For if we go on sinning willfully after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a terrifying expectation of judgment and THE FURY OF A FIRE WHICH WILL CONSUME THE AVERSARIES." Although one could spend a considerable amount of time on these two verses, I will take but a little time to share some "short thoughts".
"Willful sinning" by a child of God is simply a wrong attitude, a misinterpretation of scripture, the result of false teaching, or perhaps the reaping of a hardened heart or the failure to confess sin. In the context of our passage, the believer ought never to think that he can sin willfully in anticipation of offering a sacrifice for that sin. The entire Book of Hebrews extols this truth; Christ died once for sin. He is seated and that work is finished. There remains no sacrifice for sin as the ultimate sacrifice has been offered and accepted; Jesus. The thought that there yet remained a sacrifice for sin would imply that His sacrifice was insufficient. Oh, that a attitude of willful sinning would be far removed from each of us.
But "if we go on sinning willfully", we should expect judgment. Judgment and discipline. I will not make the mistake of trying to proclaim the manner in which His judgment will come or just how He will discipline His child. But that He chastens and scourges His children is indisputable. We may not understand how love and judgment, grace and discipline and mercy and scourging can be perfectly accomplished or carried out in the life of a believer. But He is able to do so flawlessly.
Make no mistake, in our struggle with sin, I believe He wishes to speak to us as a loving Father to His child, accepting our confession of sin. And when necessary, He graciously works as only He can to bring us to a place of Godly sorrow that leads us to repentance and restoration. But for continued willful sinning, His judgment is sure.
"Willful sinning" by a child of God is simply a wrong attitude, a misinterpretation of scripture, the result of false teaching, or perhaps the reaping of a hardened heart or the failure to confess sin. In the context of our passage, the believer ought never to think that he can sin willfully in anticipation of offering a sacrifice for that sin. The entire Book of Hebrews extols this truth; Christ died once for sin. He is seated and that work is finished. There remains no sacrifice for sin as the ultimate sacrifice has been offered and accepted; Jesus. The thought that there yet remained a sacrifice for sin would imply that His sacrifice was insufficient. Oh, that a attitude of willful sinning would be far removed from each of us.
But "if we go on sinning willfully", we should expect judgment. Judgment and discipline. I will not make the mistake of trying to proclaim the manner in which His judgment will come or just how He will discipline His child. But that He chastens and scourges His children is indisputable. We may not understand how love and judgment, grace and discipline and mercy and scourging can be perfectly accomplished or carried out in the life of a believer. But He is able to do so flawlessly.
Make no mistake, in our struggle with sin, I believe He wishes to speak to us as a loving Father to His child, accepting our confession of sin. And when necessary, He graciously works as only He can to bring us to a place of Godly sorrow that leads us to repentance and restoration. But for continued willful sinning, His judgment is sure.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Short Thoughts for Today
As I resume blogging my "short thoughts" through the Book of Hebrews, today's passage will be in Hebrews 10:24-25, where the author writes, "and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking the assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near."
In his third "let us" statement, we find the Hebrew author inspired to give valuable instructions regarding life in the body of Christ. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for members of the body of Christ to be unkind or indifferent to one another. To often believers are found to be critical of one another and have a tendency to be the "holy spirit" in each others lives. So it seems right for us to ask; how much time and energy do we spend to "consider how to stimulate one another to love and good works" or in "encouraging one another"? We can be thankful that some congregations have many members who are actively involved in doing so while others need our prayers.
For the body of Christ to function as God has intended, its members must endeavor to see and practice the truths spoken of in these two verses. We must be concerned about stimulating one another to love and good works and we must be those who encourage one another. We will not be able to accomplish these ministries in the energy of the flesh and will only walk in them as we walk in the Spirit.
It was true at the time of the writing and it is certainly true today. It is the habit of some to forsake the assembling together with other believers in the body of Christ. But if you noticed the context of where this famous admonition is, you see that it is not about going to church for church sake, but going to church for the sake of those who compose the Church. For His Church and those who are its members. I know there will be exceptions, but I believe this passage speaks to the truth that it will be difficult to stimulate one another to love and good deeds and to encourage one another if we are forsaking our assembling together.
If it is not your habit, don't allow it to become yours. If it is your habit, seek His help to break it. Determine to assemble together with brothers and sisters in Christ. Make that your habit. And take the time to consider how you might stimulate a brother or sister in Christ to love and good deeds. Consider how you might encourage a brother or sister in Christ today and another tomorrow. Let each of us be quick to encourage one another.
In this life there is really no end in sight to this admonition to assemble together, to stimulate one another to love and good works and to encourage one another. May we never think that our need to be a giver or receiver of these ministries in the body will lessen as we grow in Christ. On the contrary, as we "see the day drawing near", we are to assemble together, stimulate one another to love and good deeds and encourage one another, "all the more". Surely we can "see the day drawing near". As you consider the importance of these matters in your life and in the lives of those who you fellowship with, remember these three words; "all the more".
In his third "let us" statement, we find the Hebrew author inspired to give valuable instructions regarding life in the body of Christ. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for members of the body of Christ to be unkind or indifferent to one another. To often believers are found to be critical of one another and have a tendency to be the "holy spirit" in each others lives. So it seems right for us to ask; how much time and energy do we spend to "consider how to stimulate one another to love and good works" or in "encouraging one another"? We can be thankful that some congregations have many members who are actively involved in doing so while others need our prayers.
For the body of Christ to function as God has intended, its members must endeavor to see and practice the truths spoken of in these two verses. We must be concerned about stimulating one another to love and good works and we must be those who encourage one another. We will not be able to accomplish these ministries in the energy of the flesh and will only walk in them as we walk in the Spirit.
It was true at the time of the writing and it is certainly true today. It is the habit of some to forsake the assembling together with other believers in the body of Christ. But if you noticed the context of where this famous admonition is, you see that it is not about going to church for church sake, but going to church for the sake of those who compose the Church. For His Church and those who are its members. I know there will be exceptions, but I believe this passage speaks to the truth that it will be difficult to stimulate one another to love and good deeds and to encourage one another if we are forsaking our assembling together.
If it is not your habit, don't allow it to become yours. If it is your habit, seek His help to break it. Determine to assemble together with brothers and sisters in Christ. Make that your habit. And take the time to consider how you might stimulate a brother or sister in Christ to love and good deeds. Consider how you might encourage a brother or sister in Christ today and another tomorrow. Let each of us be quick to encourage one another.
In this life there is really no end in sight to this admonition to assemble together, to stimulate one another to love and good works and to encourage one another. May we never think that our need to be a giver or receiver of these ministries in the body will lessen as we grow in Christ. On the contrary, as we "see the day drawing near", we are to assemble together, stimulate one another to love and good deeds and encourage one another, "all the more". Surely we can "see the day drawing near". As you consider the importance of these matters in your life and in the lives of those who you fellowship with, remember these three words; "all the more".
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