Resurrection Proves Everything

Jesus did something my grandmother told her grandchildren (and I would suppose her children too) never to do; He put all of His eggs into one basket. Jesus based all of His ministry, and purpose, His identity as Messiah, indeed His entire being, on one miracle; resurrection from the dead. His critics insisted that He answer for Himself and produce some kind of sign to prove His authority for His “radical” ideas and “disruptive” behavior. What’s maddening about their attitude is that Jesus had been publicly and visibly performing countless “signs”, “wonders”, and “mighty deeds” for a long time up to that point. What more did He need to do in order to satisfy them? Obviously they were of a mind that nothing he could do would be good enough.

So He at first responded with an accusation of their evil intent (wicked/sinful and adulterous/spiritually bankrupt – totally unwilling to listen to or accept any truth). But then He softened and probably for the sake of His favorable followers and those interested in learning and growing provided a sign. Referring to an incident involving the prophet Jonah, He created what he called the “sign of Jonah.” This would serve as a prediction of that one miracle that would prove everything about Him to be true (see Matthew 12:38-42).

You can envision His critics screwing up their faces trying to recall a “sign of Jonah” and muttering under their breath to each other asking if they had heard Him correctly. “Sign of Jonah?!?! Never heard of such a thing. What’s He getting at? He must be insane; a fraud. Forget Him, let’s get out of here.” Yet this would be among a long list of predictions that He would be raised from the dead after being three days and three nights in a tomb – similar to Jonah being in the fish’s belly for the same period of time.  And what’s funny (or sad) is that the Jews remembered this prediction (Matthew 28:63) and His disciples did not (Luke 24:6-7, 25-26).

In essence, what Jesus was saying by using this “sign” is: “If you don’t see me three days after my death, then you were right – I am a fraud. Carry on with your lives as you have been. But if I do come back to life after being in the tomb for three days and nights, then everything I’ve been doing and saying is the absolute truth and you’d better change your ways and get in line with God.”

Well we know the end result: after three days and nights in the tomb . . . He’s Alive!! No seal could keep the stone in place; no trained killers on guard duty could keep Him inside; no persecution and killing of His disciples could erase the fact that Jesus had raised from the dead – never to die again. He’s alive forever more.

Even now, from the church age on into eternity, resurrection is the central element of the faith. In fact, without resurrection Christianity has no meaning, no basis, no significance (1 Corinthians 15:12-18). God’s work of redemption is founded upon Jesus’ resurrection from the dead. It was the means by which God proved His victory over sin. And our hope of resurrection to new life, eternal life with God, is now guaranteed to all of those who through baptism have died to sin, been with Christ and raised to new life. As Paul says, Jesus’ resurrection from the dead was “the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Corinthians 15:20). Resurrection for those clothed with Christ is a certainty.

So which side of the fence are you on? The critic’s side that refuses to be satisfied with anything God has done to prove Himself true to you? If so, what is it that you’re looking for in life? You know nothing here lasts or provides everything you need; so why are you still hanging on to futility?

Or are you on Jesus’ side which appreciates the great sacrifice He suffered through to call you back to Himself? If so, give your life back to Him. Be baptized into Christ to wash away your sin and live from now on striving to imitate the example He has provided for you. You know He is the only way that leads to life – long after this one ends. He is the only answer to all of life’s questions.

Trust in His resurrection and anticipate your own so you can enjoy everlasting life. You’ve got nothing to lose by doing so; and everything to gain.

Doug

Jesus and Resurrection

            There are many conflicting and confusing teachings floating around today concerning Jesus’ return and final judgment.  This is unfortunate because the Bible provides plenty of information to help us get ready for it and to stay ready every day.  These instructions may not be as exciting and dramatic as many people seem to require, but they are sufficient.  And since we will all (righteous and unrighteous) participate personally in a resurrection of the dead (righteous to eternal reward; unrighteous to . . .), it serves us best to ensure that we understand and prepare for this great event.

 

First of all, Jesus WILL return one day (Matthew 24 & 25; John 14:3; Acts 1:11; 3:21; 1 Corinthians 15:23; Philippians 3:20; Colossians 3:4; 1 Thess. 2:19; 3:13; 4:15-17; 2 Thessalonians 1:7; 2 Timothy 4:8; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 9:28; Revelation 20:10).

Second, His return will be sudden and without warning “signs” (Matthew 24:36; Acts 1:6-7; 2 Peter 3:3-4).

Third, it will take place on a particular day – not on a sequence of many days (Acts 17:31).

Fourth, Jesus’ return will be a world-wide, public event – everyone will see it, hear it, recognize it and be involved in it (Matthew 24:26-30; Acts 1:11; 1 Cor. 1:7; 1Thessalonians 4:16).

Fifth, All Christians will be gathered to Jesus and protected from the evils of that day (1Thessalonians 4:16-17; Revelation 7:1-3).

Sixth, Death and Evil will be destroyed (1 Corinthians 15:22-28).

Seventh, time (as we know it) will end and the universe will be dissolved (2 Peter 3:1-14).

Eighth, a universal judgment of all who ever lived will occur (Matthew 25:31-32; Hebrews 9:27; Revelation 11:18; 20:12-13); the evil ones will be cast away from God’s presence forever (Matthew 25:41, 46; Revelation 20:14-15) and the righteous will be brought into God’s presence for eternity (Matthew 25:34, 46; Revelation 21:27; 22:3-5).

            Paul considered the resurrection of Jesus (and later our own) as the foundational doctrine of the Christianity (1 Corinthians 15:12-19).  He states that Jesus’ resurrection proves the certainty of our own. He wrote of his joy and anticipation of this event. In his mind it was going to be such a thrill that he just couldn’t wait (Philippians 3:10-11).

            Let’s take our cue from Paul and work to prepare for Jesus’ return as soon as possible so that we too can participate in good result of that great event (resurrection to life in heaven with God).  God promises that those who put on Christ in baptism (Romans 6:5; Galatians 3:27) and continue to live with Him in holiness (1 John 1:7) will be spared from all of the terrible and frightening events of the bad result of this sure resurrection (eternal banishment from God – hell).  Get into Jesus, live for Him daily, and be ushered right into His presence when it’s your turn for resurrection.

Doug

Restore and Sustain

Isn’t it amazing that God had the solution to man’s sin problem the moment (or possibly before the moment) the first humans fell to Satan’s deceptions?  With the curse upon the serpent for its part in that tragic event (Genesis 3:14-15) He provided the first prophecy of Jesus’ atonement – the answer for overcoming our rebellion and restoring us to the loving relationship He created us for. Sin separates profane souls from the Holy God (death in biblical terminology implies a separation away from; it doesn’t mean cease to exist as English – and Satan – define it: see Genesis 3:4; Romans 7:7-25). As soon as our souls began to rot due to our severing ourselves from His life-giving, life-sustaining source, He began the process of soul-restoration. Otherwise there would be no possibility for Him to be able to sustain our life with Him.

So all of the biblical material following Genesis 3 describes how God prepared mankind and brought about the remedy that restores and sustains lost souls in a justified (“not guilty”) state before Him. All throughout the Scriptures He clearly depicts His passion to bring about the restoration of our damaged, broken souls. He visualized His desire to do this through the various miracles He empowered His faithful servants to perform. These signs and mighty works proved His power and ability to undo the tragic effects of our sin. Healing diseases, handicaps, and bodily ailments; manipulating the natural elements; driving out demons (Satan); raising the dead; these all foreshadowed God’s longing to restore and sustain sinful human’s lives.

Jesus even proclaimed that the whole purpose for His coming to the earth was to reverse the curse(s) of sin. He is quoted in John 11:25: “I am the resurrection (restoration) and the life (sustaining force). He who (continually) believes (faiths) in me will live (continually), even though he dies (physically).” Thus He explains His mission as a “Restore and Sustain” operation. His life, loving service, and selfless sacrifice on Calvary is THE remedy for sin and THE source of eternal life (John 14:6; Acts 4:12).

Can you find a better description of “Amazing Grace”? He went through a lot of trouble and expended an inordinate amount of energy, and surrendered His whole life because He loves you with an everlasting love (Jeremiah 31:3). He did all this to prove how desperately He desires to be together with you in harmony – forever! Can you see how deeply He feels about you?

In light of all this, the pertinent question now is: “How do you feel about Him?”

            Do you love Him enough to be born again through baptism so He can restore your

sin-sick soul? (John 3:5; Romans 6:3-5; Galatians 3:26-27)

            Do you love Him enough to murder your sinful ways so that He can sustain your life for all eternity? (Romans 8:12-14)

            Do you love Him enough to commit to helping Him complete His “Restore and Sustain” mission? (Matthew 28:19-20)

Doug

Living Above Reproach

            I’m convinced that the list of qualities Paul expressed to Timothy regarding selection of spiritual leaders (elders especially) are characteristics every Christian is to be striving for.  Too many times we leave others more spiritual than we are to achieve these goals and then reward them by giving them the title “elder.”  Actually the list recorded in 1 Timothy 3 (and Titus 1) describe God’s purpose for every one of His children. Our spiritual leaders are to be examples that we can observe and be encouraged to imitate.

            The main thing to look for in those who would lead the flock is their ability to get back up after being knocked down.  That is the meaning behind Paul’s term for “above reproach.”  It doesn’t mean to be sinless or less sinful than others.  No one could ever live up to that standard.  The apostle John says as much (1 John 1:8, 10).  No, the concept behind the word used refers to a boxer who, after taking a hit (struggles with some sin, mistake or temptation), is willing and courageous enough to get back up and continue the fight (humbles himself in order to allow God to help him recover from his setbacks and willingly tries again – this time stronger for the next round of attacks). 

            There are many opportunities that Satan takes advantage of to try and knock us down and discourage us to the point where we “throw in the towel” and quit.  But with God on our side (and our determination to keep growing in our relationship with Him), we have an ample supply of strength to continue to get back up and keep fighting.  And we will most likely get knocked down again.  But The Spirit is always right there with us to bolster our courage to rebound and try again.  The good thing in all of this is that every time we go through a setback, when we get back at it we are smarter than before and stronger so as to defend our weakness from another attack.

            Our goal, as disciples of Christ, must be nothing short of attempting to live above reproach.  This will show others around us the inner strength that God promises to all who allow Him to lead them through life.  Yes, it may be embarrassing (and sometimes painful – physically as well as emotionally), but the strength needed to persevere right up to the point of death comes only through battling Satan and continuing to fight until we are called home.

            So are you the fighter or the defeated?  Remember, those in heaven at the end will be the battle-scarred warriors, not the observers.  Get in there and keep fighting.  God has promised to help you keep going and to win in the end (2 Timothy 4:7-8).

Doug

The Gift of Contentment

Contentment in life is what most people of any age seek.  Everyone wants to be happy, well-fed, secure and satisfied with their circumstances.  Yet few seem to find it, because they’re looking in the wrong place for it.  Too many think it is found in a secure job, or an intimate relationship with another human, or in financial stability, or beauty, or intelligence.  These things are fleeting; they’re not able to bring contentment. 

True, lasting contentment in life is a gift from God; it is bestowed on all who come to Him for healing and continue to walk in His ways.  And two other qualities that most seek, but find equally elusive, come as a natural result of God’s gift of contentment – Courage and Confidence.  These shore up contentment and form a refuge for it ensuring its longevity. 

            Consider David’s most famous song:

            Psalm 23:1-3 – Contentment is only in YHWH.

            “The LORD (YHWH) is my shepherd! I don’t lack a thing.”

              With God on our side we can’t lose (see Romans 8:31).

              He ensures that we relax and feel secure in Him.

              He has provided Jesus, living water to refresh us.

              He restores and improves our spiritual standing.

              He guides us on the path that returns us to Himself.

            Psalm 23:4-5 – Courage comes by experience with Him.

              There’s nothing to fear when He is by our side.

              His protection (rod) & correction (staff) inspire maturity.

              We have blessings the world craves.

              He provides healing for our souls.

              He continually heaps blessings upon us.

            Psalm 23:6 – Confidence comes from a growing faith.

         God’s goodness & mercy overshadow all of life’s troubles.

              Our fellowship with God will continue on forever.

The Apostle Paul learned the same thing about contentment (see Philippians 4:11-13). Fortunately he realized this truth in time to endure a long, unjust imprisonment and remain faithful (2 Tim 4:6-8). And we are all given the same promise if we surrender to God and allow Him to bless us with plenty of it.  Striving to walk in His ways will also instill the courage and confidence to bolster your contentment and provide even more.

So call on your Shepherd, follow His lead, and stay close to Him.  He’s the only source of the contentment you’re searching for.  And He would love to bathe you with an endless supply of it.

Doug

The Shepherd-King

     By the title you’re no doubt thinking about David.  That’s good, because God’s standard for His kings was the shepherd-turned-king.  He is also the one who penned the great shepherd psalm (Psalm 23).  However, there is another great shepherd-king; one that many take for granted.  God, Himself, says that He is our shepherd and He is the King of Kings.  It can’t be sacrilegious, then, to think of God this way; especially since He refers to Himself with this imagery (Jeremiah 23 & Ezekiel 34).

            So what can we learn about God with these mysterious revelations?

            First, we can know that He cares for us in a very special way.  Taking note of Psalm 23 it is apparent that He is a loving provider: no lack of anything, still waters, green pastures, anointing oil.  He sees that we have an abundance of every good, practical, and peaceful thing.

            Secondly, He stands guard to protect us.  His rod keeps our enemy at bay.

            Thirdly, He guides us through life (good times as well as bad).  His staff keeps us on the right path and He shares our trek through the valley of the shadow of death.

            Fourth, and most important, He generously gives us a safe, comfortable home; one we will occupy for eternity in His presence.

            Keep in mind, though, that we do have an obligation toward Him in light of all these wonderful blessings.  We are required to follow our Shepherd.  It won’t do for us to wander off the true path and go exploring.  Outside of His sheepfold lies danger in the form of poisonous influences and predators hungry for a kill.  Only by keeping in step with God / Jesus (trusting, obeying, and persevering) can we be safe from all harm.

 

            If you’re striving to stay in step with your Shepherd-king, remember to continue to be the holy and righteous person He created you to be; keep walking in the light with Him.             If, however, you have been lax and have drifted away, consider it time to return to the Shepherd of your soul.  It’s very comforting to enjoy the blessings of a Shepherd who willingly provides all of your needs and protections.  Come to Him; He cares for you.  And He wants to make wonderful things of your life.

Doug

The People’s Shepherd

God throughout Scripture represents His people as sheep and Himself as their shepherd. That’s interesting because what I read about the cultural views of shepherds during the biblical time periods paints a picture that really shouldn’t include God, the Father. Shepherds weren’t held in high esteem, in fact many peoples despised them (Genesis 46:34). It was probably because they were smelly from being around stinky animals; they were dirty since they spent most of their time in the wilderness; they were strangers to most people wandering around from place to place in search of pasture. These descriptions don’t seem to fit a holy, righteous God that is to be honored, revered, and respected. It appears that shepherding was the job everyone needed but that no one wanted (it usually fell to the lowliest or even the youngest in the family – 1 Samuel 16:11).

Yet most of the great heroes of the faith were shepherds: Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses (when God called him), and David (before he was king). So to God, being a shepherd was not derogatory, unseemly, or lowly. It was actually a very important job since they had to tend to the animals used for sacrifice (which had to be perfect specimens – no handicaps, bruises or blemishes). To Him, it was a needed and honorable profession.

In Jeremiah 23:1-8 (and many other places), God depicts the leaders of His people as shepherds. He holds them responsible for taking care of His people. But He was deeply disturbed that His shepherds had oppressed His people and had scattered His flock by oppressing them for their own greedy gain and neglecting to care for their needs (see also Ezekiel 34). So He promised to punish these worthless shepherds very severely.

And that’s when He makes His astounding announcement: He declares that He Himself will become His people’s shepherd! What??? The Righteous and Holy, Creator God – forever to be respected, esteemed, and highly honored – will take the job no one wants; the one forced upon the lowliest of mankind? Yes because His worthless shepherds have driven His sheep away from safe pasture and their lives are now in danger of exposure to the elements and predators. That’s the opposite of what His intentions are. He wants us all back safe and sound in His place; He wants us to be well-fed and healthy; He wants to calm our fears and to protect us from enemy predators. Since His appointees think this work is beneath them, He willingly steps in and becomes the servant-leader His people need.

This prophecy from Jeremiah and Ezekiel was fulfilled when Jesus arrived and gave His life on the cross to atone for our sins. As He Himself declares, He is the door/gate to God’s sheep pen (John 10:1-10). This is perfect for it acknowledges that Jesus is the avenue by which we gain access to our loving Shepherd (see too John 14:6). This allows us the privilege of being shielded by His grace, protected from the evil one, and blessed with the peace of mind and contentment that comes with our sins being remitted. Now His Spirit guides us from within and leads us along safe paths through the wilderness – if we’re willing to follow His lead. And we have all the blessings depicted in the great shepherd Psalm 23: Courage, Confidence, and Contentment.

Being in the Shepherd’s flock provides the abundant life everyone is seeking both now and forever more. Most are not finding it because they’re following robbing, thieving shepherds (Satan = self) or they’re trying to figure things out on their own. That’s why those outside of Christ are called “lost” and why they’re angry, and lonely, and abused. Don’t listen to the critics and antagonists: they don’t know what they’re doing or where they’re going. You will end up like them – dead meat for the predators (1 Peter 5:8).

No, get into Jesus and stay under His loving care. Follow the Good Shepherd to healthy pastures. You’ll have everything you need for the journey home. And you’ll have the peace of mind that comes with being sure that you’re on the right path, the one that truly leads back to the palace the Father has prepared for you to enjoy for eternity.

Doug