Thursday, May 29, 2010
Anonymous: To work on our debt so I can quit my job. For the success of husband's business and our realtor insurance needs. Praise God for the job I have. For God to soften my bitter heart.
Deborah D: Friend Traci will come to church with me. My marraige.
Carly L: Lord, please give my "x" wisdom.
Chris G: Please pray for the team at our company, 4G, will continue to be blessed with the ability to do God's work through better understanding of His will for us all and 4G's humble role in His kingdom. Times are challenging but his love is forever. Amen.
SLC Praises:
For those that completed the Xchanged Life Ministry training and are now "experiencing" the ministry with a personal guide. We praise HIM for all that he is doing in and through these precious lives and for the ones that are waiting to go through the process.
Praise God for the 2 baptisms last week and all that were there to witness the miracle of 2 little children desiring to chase after God's heart.
SLC prayer requests:
Prayers for a space are at the top of our list; specifically a space along Midway road (which will give us additional exposure) and one that we can lease 6 months at a time so that we can use the facility 7 days a week for God's purposes. Lord, we desire to posess the land, show us where you want us and what you have set apart for us.
For God to continue to draw those to us that will serve beside us; those that will be with us for a season, those that are lost; and those that desire peace and healing in their lives.
For continued favor with Town of Addison council, city leaders and business partners.
For upcoming Adventure Kids event at Les Lacs neighborhood park. We will be handing out door cards and flyers in the next two weeks and weekends. Our mission is to touch hearts, transform minds and train disciples for the kingdom of God. Help us Lord to touch the hearts of those that live in and around this town!
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Indifference 5.23.10 Obadiah
Reminder next week “What’s up with???”
Indifference
Albert Einstein is credited with saying, “The world is a dangerous place to live; not because of the people who are evil, but because of the people who don't do anything about it.” Throughout the course of history his sentiment has proven to be true.
- Whether it is Kitty Genovese in 1964 who was attacked 3 different times over the course of 25 minutes while people in a 10 story apartment building did nothing because as one person said, “I didn’t want to get involved.”
- Or Martin Niemoller who, after being imprisoned in a Nazi death camp, wrote this. "In Germany, they first came for the Communists, and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a Communist; then they came for the Jews, and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a Jew. Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a Trade Unionist. Then they came for the Catholics, and I didn't speak up because I was a Protestant. Then they came for me - and by that time no one was left to speak up."
- From Adam (Gen3) in the garden who willingly stood by and watched as Eve disobeyed God to the church of Ephesus (Rev 2) who became “neither hot nor cold” in their affection for the things of God.
In my opinion The Spirit of indifference is the most dangerous of all attitudes.
Why? Because it is deceptive: It gives the illusion of allowing liberty to “to our fellow man” but places “us” in bondage. If the individual then the family, the community, the city, state, nation, world. If you want to change the world… change the individual= but really…
- Who can blame the 145 pound man for not getting involved in the fight between a husband and his wife?
- Can you really be upset at the group of mom’s who says nothing to another mom “punishing” her child in the park?
It’s the attitude found between a boyfriend and girlfriend,
Do you believe in God?
Yes
Is it a problem that I’m not religious?
Not for me
How’s that?
I’m not the one going to hell…
The spirit of indifference prevents transformation.
- It thwarts righteousness (right living) by allowing a system contrary to the Kingdom of heaven = “relativism”.
- The current popular notion that judging others is in itself a sin leads to a conspiracy of moral indifference.
- A spirit that is opposite of what Jesus said is the 2nd most important command, “to love your neighbor as yourself.”
So this morning if you’re wondering… how is it that thousands of people are rallying AGAINST a law created to stop ILLEGAL ACTIVITY in the state of Arizona… it is a Spirit of Indifference. How have we come to a place where the EPA and churches can partner with each other = if the church “greens” it receives money from the government. Or why does every child receive a trophy for “participating” in a sport?
What is INDIFFERENCE? “Lack of interest or concern / unimportance” – it is also the overarching theme found in the book of Obadiah:
INDIFFERENCE GET’S WORSE with TIME.
- V 11 - Stand aloof – (greek – min – to separate from) “I’m not part of them so it’s not my problem.”
• The issue God had with Edom is that they are part of “them”. The Edomites were the descendants of Esau – the Israelites were descendants of Jacob – they were brother nations.
• An issue we have in this day and age is the thought pattern that “we are not our brothers keeper”. Really? Where do we find that demonstrated in the life of Christ?
- V 11b - The next step is to - Blend in (you were like one of them)
• Just follow the crowd – don’t say anything.
- V12 - Gloat (celebrate) – “they are getting what they deserve.”
• Within the heart of gloating is a “mercy-less” existence. “Mercy” is not getting what you deserve, hence to be ‘mercy-less’ is to approve of persons getting what you think they deserve.
- V13 – Take advantage (enter the gate)
• In peoples weakness taking advantage of them.
• How? Like not helping others “succeed” when it is within your power to do so.
- V14 – Prevent Escape - “standing at the crossroads to cut off fugitives – handing over his survivors”
• The indifference has moved from passive observance to active participation in whatever ‘the crowd’ is engaged in.
The LORD has called us to be servants in neighborhoods and cities – There are specific ways in which we are to do that – we are to be
• salt,
• light and
• leaven.
• INDIFFERENCE prevents us from doing this because the principal is not found in the Kingdom of God.
Because of that it prevents other aspects of the kingdom to manifest themselves. Honor, service, mercy love and grace.
Earlier I said INDIFFERENCE places people in bondage – the bondage is from reverting back to an OT practice of the LAW. When Jesus brought the Kingdom of heaven to earth he removed the LAW and placed us under GRACE.
- NOTE: grace is more difficult than LAW. Because of that…
- Grace must be accompanied with a divine favor to be able to carry out the works of Christ.
Things that are contrary to what Jesus demonstrated place us back under law = under law we are bound to OT practices and ideologies.
- Under LAW the favor of God is removed because the emphasis is placed on rules and regulations – not the power of God’s Spirit.
Apart from GRACE we become like our surroundings:
For instance: in the OT under law God directed people to “come out from among them” to be separate from other nations. (TO BE POSITIONALLY INDIFFERENT) WHY? Because God realized that the other nations would contaminate His people.
- In the OT if you touched a leper the unclean would contaminate the clean.
- In the NT because of grace we now touch the leper and the leper becomes clean.
There is a bent to OT = LAW and the need for judgment, punishment and penalty for sin. In the NT there is a shift because of the greater revelation through the Spirit of God that dwells within every believer.
- Jesus walked among the sinners. The message of Christ is to “go to and among” those far off and lift me up – I’ll draw all men unto myself.
INDIFFERENCE is akin to “to coming out from among them” and being separate… to not want to be involved in others lives.
Under grace we are called to invade the system with; compassion, service and love.
- The intent is not to take over the system but rather to permeate the system. YOUR life when brought into contact with the worlds system has the power to transform a neighborhood, culture and nation.
SALT, LIGHT, LEVEN
- LEVEN will eventually affect the entire batch. Though it may be a small component of the mixture = if given time the entire mixture succumbs to its affect.
- SALT mixed into water not change the appearance but alters the flavor = transforms the water
- LIGHT takes does not change the shape of something = but it visibly alters the appearance – making shades of grey color = repels darkness
That’s just the way it works = the principals of the kingdom of God are always more powerful than the principals of the kingdom of darkness. We are not to RULE and REIGN but rather to influence and align.
- You and I have been sprinkled into a system in which we are asked to bring about transformation one person at a time, one business at a time, one neighborhood at a time.
HOW?
Through the principals established in the OT and then demonstrated in the life of Christ.
- If you see something in the OT and Jesus does not demonstrate it… there is a better way.
OT provides a context and plan that can never be fully realized outside of GRACE – “good try but will never get there”.
Jeremiah 29:7 – “But seek the welfare (peace = shalom) of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the LORD on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.”
- In the peace of a city you will find peace.
- In the welfare of the city you will find welfare.
Under LAW we are “come out form among them” – yet pray for their peace and welfare. Under GRACE we are to contend for the city by occupying it as well as praying for their peace and welfare.
- What I touch is transformed; the sick, the ailing man, the drug addict, the marriage, the child is changed… not the other way around.
FROM JER 29:7 we see that there is a realm of blessing only possible as we contend for a city = when we are not INDIFFERENT but engaged.
- When we infiltrate the areas of a city that are broken a blessing is released that is only made possible by our contending.
We have seen the possibilities of an individual infiltrating a system with the principals of the Kingdom of God and because of the one – a nation benefitted.
- If anyone had a right to be indifferent to the troubles of a family or a nation Joseph and Daniel did;
• JOSEPH - Sold into slavery / slandered / placed in prison / forgotten… yet in the midst of all those reasons to be indifferent he remained committed to God and because of it the nation benefitted.
• Genesis 50:20 – “As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive as they are today.”
• Daniel was taken captive / mistreated / forced to become a eunuch and had every reason to be INDIFFERENT to Nebuchadnezzar yet look at what his disposition was:
• DANIEL 4:19 – “my lord, may the dream be for those who hate you and its interpretation for your enemies!”
Joseph and Daniel changed the environment around them because they were not indifferent. Instead they were light, leaven and salt.
• HONOR
• FORGIVENESS
• HUMILITY
If that is the life on 1 person… what would happen if a group of people, under grace contended for a city and nation?
“I am one, But still I am one.
I cannot do everything,
But still I can do something;
And because I cannot do everything
I will not refuse to do the something that I can do.”
Edward Everett Hale
YOUR LIFE MATTERS –
And under the clothing of HONOR, FORGIVENESS, and HUMILITY there is no culture that can resist you…
- In truth, there is no culture that wants to because it changes everything.
Nate Saint was among 5 missionaries killed in 1956 – Steve his son was just 8 years old.
Indifference
Albert Einstein is credited with saying, “The world is a dangerous place to live; not because of the people who are evil, but because of the people who don't do anything about it.” Throughout the course of history his sentiment has proven to be true.
- Whether it is Kitty Genovese in 1964 who was attacked 3 different times over the course of 25 minutes while people in a 10 story apartment building did nothing because as one person said, “I didn’t want to get involved.”
- Or Martin Niemoller who, after being imprisoned in a Nazi death camp, wrote this. "In Germany, they first came for the Communists, and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a Communist; then they came for the Jews, and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a Jew. Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a Trade Unionist. Then they came for the Catholics, and I didn't speak up because I was a Protestant. Then they came for me - and by that time no one was left to speak up."
- From Adam (Gen3) in the garden who willingly stood by and watched as Eve disobeyed God to the church of Ephesus (Rev 2) who became “neither hot nor cold” in their affection for the things of God.
In my opinion The Spirit of indifference is the most dangerous of all attitudes.
Why? Because it is deceptive: It gives the illusion of allowing liberty to “to our fellow man” but places “us” in bondage. If the individual then the family, the community, the city, state, nation, world. If you want to change the world… change the individual= but really…
- Who can blame the 145 pound man for not getting involved in the fight between a husband and his wife?
- Can you really be upset at the group of mom’s who says nothing to another mom “punishing” her child in the park?
It’s the attitude found between a boyfriend and girlfriend,
Do you believe in God?
Yes
Is it a problem that I’m not religious?
Not for me
How’s that?
I’m not the one going to hell…
The spirit of indifference prevents transformation.
- It thwarts righteousness (right living) by allowing a system contrary to the Kingdom of heaven = “relativism”.
- The current popular notion that judging others is in itself a sin leads to a conspiracy of moral indifference.
- A spirit that is opposite of what Jesus said is the 2nd most important command, “to love your neighbor as yourself.”
So this morning if you’re wondering… how is it that thousands of people are rallying AGAINST a law created to stop ILLEGAL ACTIVITY in the state of Arizona… it is a Spirit of Indifference. How have we come to a place where the EPA and churches can partner with each other = if the church “greens” it receives money from the government. Or why does every child receive a trophy for “participating” in a sport?
What is INDIFFERENCE? “Lack of interest or concern / unimportance” – it is also the overarching theme found in the book of Obadiah:
INDIFFERENCE GET’S WORSE with TIME.
- V 11 - Stand aloof – (greek – min – to separate from) “I’m not part of them so it’s not my problem.”
• The issue God had with Edom is that they are part of “them”. The Edomites were the descendants of Esau – the Israelites were descendants of Jacob – they were brother nations.
• An issue we have in this day and age is the thought pattern that “we are not our brothers keeper”. Really? Where do we find that demonstrated in the life of Christ?
- V 11b - The next step is to - Blend in (you were like one of them)
• Just follow the crowd – don’t say anything.
- V12 - Gloat (celebrate) – “they are getting what they deserve.”
• Within the heart of gloating is a “mercy-less” existence. “Mercy” is not getting what you deserve, hence to be ‘mercy-less’ is to approve of persons getting what you think they deserve.
- V13 – Take advantage (enter the gate)
• In peoples weakness taking advantage of them.
• How? Like not helping others “succeed” when it is within your power to do so.
- V14 – Prevent Escape - “standing at the crossroads to cut off fugitives – handing over his survivors”
• The indifference has moved from passive observance to active participation in whatever ‘the crowd’ is engaged in.
The LORD has called us to be servants in neighborhoods and cities – There are specific ways in which we are to do that – we are to be
• salt,
• light and
• leaven.
• INDIFFERENCE prevents us from doing this because the principal is not found in the Kingdom of God.
Because of that it prevents other aspects of the kingdom to manifest themselves. Honor, service, mercy love and grace.
Earlier I said INDIFFERENCE places people in bondage – the bondage is from reverting back to an OT practice of the LAW. When Jesus brought the Kingdom of heaven to earth he removed the LAW and placed us under GRACE.
- NOTE: grace is more difficult than LAW. Because of that…
- Grace must be accompanied with a divine favor to be able to carry out the works of Christ.
Things that are contrary to what Jesus demonstrated place us back under law = under law we are bound to OT practices and ideologies.
- Under LAW the favor of God is removed because the emphasis is placed on rules and regulations – not the power of God’s Spirit.
Apart from GRACE we become like our surroundings:
For instance: in the OT under law God directed people to “come out from among them” to be separate from other nations. (TO BE POSITIONALLY INDIFFERENT) WHY? Because God realized that the other nations would contaminate His people.
- In the OT if you touched a leper the unclean would contaminate the clean.
- In the NT because of grace we now touch the leper and the leper becomes clean.
There is a bent to OT = LAW and the need for judgment, punishment and penalty for sin. In the NT there is a shift because of the greater revelation through the Spirit of God that dwells within every believer.
- Jesus walked among the sinners. The message of Christ is to “go to and among” those far off and lift me up – I’ll draw all men unto myself.
INDIFFERENCE is akin to “to coming out from among them” and being separate… to not want to be involved in others lives.
Under grace we are called to invade the system with; compassion, service and love.
- The intent is not to take over the system but rather to permeate the system. YOUR life when brought into contact with the worlds system has the power to transform a neighborhood, culture and nation.
SALT, LIGHT, LEVEN
- LEVEN will eventually affect the entire batch. Though it may be a small component of the mixture = if given time the entire mixture succumbs to its affect.
- SALT mixed into water not change the appearance but alters the flavor = transforms the water
- LIGHT takes does not change the shape of something = but it visibly alters the appearance – making shades of grey color = repels darkness
That’s just the way it works = the principals of the kingdom of God are always more powerful than the principals of the kingdom of darkness. We are not to RULE and REIGN but rather to influence and align.
- You and I have been sprinkled into a system in which we are asked to bring about transformation one person at a time, one business at a time, one neighborhood at a time.
HOW?
Through the principals established in the OT and then demonstrated in the life of Christ.
- If you see something in the OT and Jesus does not demonstrate it… there is a better way.
OT provides a context and plan that can never be fully realized outside of GRACE – “good try but will never get there”.
Jeremiah 29:7 – “But seek the welfare (peace = shalom) of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the LORD on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.”
- In the peace of a city you will find peace.
- In the welfare of the city you will find welfare.
Under LAW we are “come out form among them” – yet pray for their peace and welfare. Under GRACE we are to contend for the city by occupying it as well as praying for their peace and welfare.
- What I touch is transformed; the sick, the ailing man, the drug addict, the marriage, the child is changed… not the other way around.
FROM JER 29:7 we see that there is a realm of blessing only possible as we contend for a city = when we are not INDIFFERENT but engaged.
- When we infiltrate the areas of a city that are broken a blessing is released that is only made possible by our contending.
We have seen the possibilities of an individual infiltrating a system with the principals of the Kingdom of God and because of the one – a nation benefitted.
- If anyone had a right to be indifferent to the troubles of a family or a nation Joseph and Daniel did;
• JOSEPH - Sold into slavery / slandered / placed in prison / forgotten… yet in the midst of all those reasons to be indifferent he remained committed to God and because of it the nation benefitted.
• Genesis 50:20 – “As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive as they are today.”
• Daniel was taken captive / mistreated / forced to become a eunuch and had every reason to be INDIFFERENT to Nebuchadnezzar yet look at what his disposition was:
• DANIEL 4:19 – “my lord, may the dream be for those who hate you and its interpretation for your enemies!”
Joseph and Daniel changed the environment around them because they were not indifferent. Instead they were light, leaven and salt.
• HONOR
• FORGIVENESS
• HUMILITY
If that is the life on 1 person… what would happen if a group of people, under grace contended for a city and nation?
“I am one, But still I am one.
I cannot do everything,
But still I can do something;
And because I cannot do everything
I will not refuse to do the something that I can do.”
Edward Everett Hale
YOUR LIFE MATTERS –
And under the clothing of HONOR, FORGIVENESS, and HUMILITY there is no culture that can resist you…
- In truth, there is no culture that wants to because it changes everything.
Nate Saint was among 5 missionaries killed in 1956 – Steve his son was just 8 years old.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Pansy K: Friend-Zula Fox, loss of husband "Curt" on Friday. Friend-Patricia Stephens, had elbow surgery on Friday 5/14 - needs prayers for recovery.
Emily P: This Friday, brain MRI to check chronic migraines and headaches. Pray for clear scan and solution for cause of headaches.
Carly L: May my children's father get more involved in their lives.
Christina P: Children; Grayson has bronchitis infection, Isabella beginning to cough, both home from school today. Pray that God keeps them safe and free from further illness. Friend; Al Bolivar, wife; Candice, children; Lilliana and Clara, their house burned down 2 weeks ago today. Moved into apartment this past Monday in Addison. Trying to get settled and requested prayers for wise decision making. Pray they will experience a personal touch from God and that Jesus will draw them close to him so that this ordeal that the enemy meant for evil will be used for the good of the Kingdom.
Devin R: For good news from job interview this week.
Judy W: Job- not having any luck and could lose apartment and furniture soon. Son is failing in school due to financial stress at home. Requesting a miracle in this current situation.
Summit Life: Prayers for the lost or the hopeless in and around Addison. God, draw them to us supernaturally by your power and perfect plan. The Communications Class at Sojourn begins next Wednesday for TEAM SUMMIT leaders. Pray that we will come to a better understanding of how God created us and the individual communication language (s) he uniquely gave us to reach others and touch hearts for the Kingdom of God. Prayers for this Friday evening at Taste of Addison- that we will enjoy going as a "family" and that we will be a light in and on that territory and speak to anyone the spirit beckons us to speak to. Also, prayers for our very first Summit Baptism on Saturday - praise and thanksgiving to God for these 2 precious children that have asked Jesus to be Lord of their lives. May their hearts be committed to Christ all their lives and may they walk in newness of life and fulfill their purpose on this earth- Amen!
Pansy K: Friend-Zula Fox, loss of husband "Curt" on Friday. Friend-Patricia Stephens, had elbow surgery on Friday 5/14 - needs prayers for recovery.
Emily P: This Friday, brain MRI to check chronic migraines and headaches. Pray for clear scan and solution for cause of headaches.
Carly L: May my children's father get more involved in their lives.
Christina P: Children; Grayson has bronchitis infection, Isabella beginning to cough, both home from school today. Pray that God keeps them safe and free from further illness. Friend; Al Bolivar, wife; Candice, children; Lilliana and Clara, their house burned down 2 weeks ago today. Moved into apartment this past Monday in Addison. Trying to get settled and requested prayers for wise decision making. Pray they will experience a personal touch from God and that Jesus will draw them close to him so that this ordeal that the enemy meant for evil will be used for the good of the Kingdom.
Devin R: For good news from job interview this week.
Judy W: Job- not having any luck and could lose apartment and furniture soon. Son is failing in school due to financial stress at home. Requesting a miracle in this current situation.
Summit Life: Prayers for the lost or the hopeless in and around Addison. God, draw them to us supernaturally by your power and perfect plan. The Communications Class at Sojourn begins next Wednesday for TEAM SUMMIT leaders. Pray that we will come to a better understanding of how God created us and the individual communication language (s) he uniquely gave us to reach others and touch hearts for the Kingdom of God. Prayers for this Friday evening at Taste of Addison- that we will enjoy going as a "family" and that we will be a light in and on that territory and speak to anyone the spirit beckons us to speak to. Also, prayers for our very first Summit Baptism on Saturday - praise and thanksgiving to God for these 2 precious children that have asked Jesus to be Lord of their lives. May their hearts be committed to Christ all their lives and may they walk in newness of life and fulfill their purpose on this earth- Amen!
Monday, May 17, 2010
Sermon 5.17.10 AMOS - "Promise Me"
AMOS
“Promise Me”
Last week instead of my usual walking in with my son for guitar lessons I had an errand to run so I dropped him off at the curb. I told him that I’d be back to pick him up in this very spot after his lesson was over. As he got out of the car (with a little trepidation) he looked at me and said, “So you’ll be back here when I’m done. “ I replied, “yes I will”. To which he said, “Promise me!” So I did.
There is something about the word “promise” that seemingly sets in stone our words – but all too often it is merely a word flippantly thrown out to squelch an objection or end a disagreement.
The bible is replete with what we would call “promises” from God. But in the midst of turmoil it seems like we are left hungry for even a morsel of promise in our lives.
In the book of Amos God delivers promises to his people… most of which are not pleasant – it is that they will be overtaken, placed in bondage and scattered because of their ungodliness and overt sin. However, true to His word God’s punishment is only to a point. He provides them enough ‘hope’ so that they are never overwhelmed by excessive sorrow.
Amos was a breeder, rancher and farmer in the region of Tekoa which was a small town in the region of Judah. He lived in times of material prosperity, stability and expansion to the two kingdoms of Israel (Northern Kingdom) and Judah (Southern Kingdom).
Brief History lesson: Israel had three kings; Saul, David and Solomon. When Solomon died a civil war broke out as Solomon's sons and generals fought for the throne. Rehoboam had his fathers blessing to be the new king, but Jeroboam had more military influence. In the end, Rehoboam took the southern half of the country and called it "Judah". Jeroboam took the northern half and kept the name Israel. Each claimed to be God's chosen king.
Ten tribes in the north formed the northern kingdom of "Israel" and two tribes (Judah and Benjamin) formed the southern kingdom of "Judah."
Amos’ message was directed to the Northern kingdom - Israel. Israel had been victorious in extending her borders and controlled the trade routes hence, wealth began to accumulate in her cities. There was a class distinction between rich and poor, debt was rampant, morality was low – but “religion” flourished. People thronged to the shrines and yearly festivals and considered themselves immune to disaster because, “God was with them.” (HE HAD PROMISED HE WOULD BE). So what do we do when God’s ‘promises’ of never leaving us are overshadowed by real life pain and loss – when disaster happens - did God ‘take back’ his promise?
The scenario found in the book of AMOS is a familiar pattern even to this day; Prosperity, Pride and a wandering from God, Punishment (consequence), Returning to God – Restoration.
Begin reading AMOS 1:1-4 then STOP:
You know what – jump over to 9:11.
Why have I skipped over 9 chapters? Because the day’s of judgment have ended. If you are in Christ there is no more judgment for you. Listen… I desire to be more like Jesus and He says, “I did not come to judge the world but to save the world.” (John 12:47) God is no longer angry… at least He’s not angry with me – I got lost in Christ.
So, this morning is a ‘happy’ morning. Let me show you what I mean – Acts 3:19-20 – “repent therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out, that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus.”
- How many of you want refreshing?
- Refreshing comes from the presence of the LORD.
- God is enthroned on the praises of Israel (His people).
- Tell Him.
What has the LORD done for you this week? Tell Him thank you. If you can’t think of anything… thank him that you have a mind that can think you don’t have anything to be thankful for.
NOW that we have the mindset that GOD is in a good mood: – there are lessons to be learned from the book of Amos
Romans 15:4 –“For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction… so that we might have hope.”
First, Be thankful for ‘grace’ - If God wanted, he has enough to convict you: 1:3, 1:6, 1:9, 1:11 and 1:13 – “For three transgressions… and for four I will not revoke punishment…”
• The idea is sin multiplied on sin –
• Without Jesus… we are without hope.
Second, if it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck… you got it: 3:2-6
If people are together in their ‘walking’ they must agree in the direction to go. The prophets continued to proclaim the same message to Israel. If you are being prompted to begin or stop a certain behavior repeatedly… NOW is the time to take care of dealing with it.
Third, Learn to take a hint (6 times): 4:6-11
• The encouraging thing about God is that He provides “chances” for us. He is on our team – He wants us to succeed – He allows chances to get it right… but eventually “time is up”.
Fourth, you can’t get away with sin: 5:18-19
• Because of sin life goes from bad to worse.
Fifth, Be thankful for gravity – 7:7-9
• A plumb line was used to determine the ‘straightness’ of a wall – if the wall had settled and began to lean it was torn down and rebuilt so as to prevent a catastrophe of the wall falling upon people. God’s word is consistent like gravity – regardless of location it applies equally to all people. There are no ‘favorites’ in the Kingdom of God. Although there are people who have the “favor” of God upon their life. The hope is that because of its consistent nature – people will recognize when they begin to tilt and lean the other way so as to prevent a catastrophe.
Sixth, There are worse things than being without food – 8:11-12
• What’s worse? Silence from God.
Seventh, God is the champion of Hide and go seek – 9:2-3
Finally, the verses in chapter 9 from 11-15 describe a literal time when the nation of Israel will be restored with the return of Christ. While this day may not be ‘that day’ we are progressing towards it. As we embark to bring the kingdom of Heaven to earth we advance the cause of Christ and by doing so usher His return.
That is part of our mission at Summit Life Church; Touch hearts, Transform minds and train disciples for the kingdom of God.
(The kingdom of God and the Kingdom of heaven are used interchangeably)
Bringing the Kingdom of Heaven to earth is what Jesus did: “From that time on Jesus began to preach, saying, “repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. (Mat 4:17)
Again… These are literal things that will happen to Israel when Christ returns. So why am I telling you that? Because, the role of the OT is to provide types and shadows – prophetic images of Jesus and the Kingdom.
For INSTACNE:
• Moses delivered Israel from Egypt (evil) – Jesus delivered us from evil.
• The Israelites demonstrated baptism by walking through the waters of the Red sea, separating themselves from evil. Jesus demonstrates baptism and a “new life”.
• Israel leaving Egypt (evil) is like repentance. Jesus calls everyone to repentance.
• God gave Israel an inheritance – we have been given an inheritance through Jesus as well… heaven.
• God fed the Israelites manna from haven – we have been given the bread of life.
So what? So – because the church is a shadow of the nation of Israel we are able to apply (with type and shadow) the promises found in the OT to our lives today. They are not literal, rather they speak to a ‘shadow’ of what can be expected for believers.
Hebrews 1:1 tells us “Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his son.”
MEANING: In the past God spoke in a variety of ways; prophets, law, psalms – in these last days there is only one voice… Jesus (who is perfect theology). Everything must hold up to the message and manifestation of Jesus.
The prophetic words of judgment and condemnation for those who, by faith believe unto Jesus, no longer apply – Jesus did not demonstrate them. The prophetic words of edification, promise and advancement do apply, because they are demonstrated by the life of Christ.
When we read prophetic promises from the OT we are to apply them to our lives through the life of Christ. The ‘voice of God’s son’. There are many prophetic promises in the OT that align with the ‘voice of Christ’. Promises of freedom, deliverance and advancement.
Q: Then why is it common to remain in bondage to a thought pattern or a behavior and not embrace what has been promised to us?
The bible provides the answer… imagine that. As is evident throughout the bible whenever there is a promise – there is immediate resistance from the enemy.
Mark 1:9-12 – Jesus is given the promise from God, “You are my beloved Son, with you I am well pleased.” – IMMEDIATELY he was driven out to the wilderness being tempted by Satan.”
- V11 – The ‘booth’ being raised up and repaired is the uniting of the 12 tribes of Israel – as they were once under the rule of David. The promise is that there will be unity among the body of Christ. That it is God’s hope that the body of Christ unites and affects the world. The resistance, disunity through being offended. Resentment, doubt, and accusation.
LIFE is about this: Our actions and words either gather or scatter.
- V12 – Possessing the remnant of Edom describes how the Israelites will defeat the world’s system and possess all the nations called by the LORD. The promise is about inheritance – it is about stepping into your destiny. It’s about overcoming the world’s system by seeing with supernatural wisdom and revelation (seeing beyond the veil into ‘that day’) The resistance is an orphan spirit. A spirit that believes, “It’s all up to me.” “I’m alone.” “This life is all I have.” “If I were to ever be myself people wouldn’t like me.”
NOTE: this is about defeating the worlds system… not the world.
How will the worlds system be defeated? Not by war but by the truth of God’s word (Psalm 149:6-8)
- V13 – the plowman overtaking the reaper and the treader of grapes overtaking him who sows the seed. The promise is abundant provision and favor from God. Supernatural necessities given by God to sustain our lives. The resistance is the mindset of humanism. The emphasis on what we do for God instead of what God does for us. An attitude that causes us to believe that by doing what we want to do will become what we want to be. A mind that hears, “I create my own destiny.” “I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul” (Invictus-William earnest Henley).” Humanism presses us to rely on our accomplishments for favor – not God’s unmerited favor. Humanism produces pecking order and manipulation (intimidation = a spirit of witchcraft). Not even Abraham (the father of our faith) considered his accomplishments enough to earn the favor of God – it was his FAITH that was counted to him as righteousness.
- V14 – restoring the fortunes of me people
• The promise is being brought out of bondage. Being set free from malevolence , hopelessness and oppression. The resistance is a spirit of legalism; rules, standards, a spirit of management, rigid, critical. Thoughts like, “I can’t believe they choose to do it like that?” “This is the way it should be done.” If your life is fixed on the promise that God has brought you out of bondage, it will be obvious to the world. PSALM 126
- V15 – Plant them on their land and they shall never again be uprooted out of the land that I have given them
• The promise is stability and security in this day despite circumstantial uncertainty. The resistance is returning to the familiar, to former days of ease. Ideas that sounds like, “It was better when…” “Why can’t it be like it used to be?” “I wish I had it to do over again.” The people of Israel said this, “”Would it not be better for us to go back to Egypt?”
I understand circumstantial uncertainty – starting a new church tends to do that…
- From week to week the numbers are added, the people are counted and the bills are paid (hopefully).
- Yet, here is what I do know. I am immovable, stable, secure and incorruptible because of the Spirit of God that lives in me.
WHY? Because daily - I put off the accuser and remind myself that I am a child of promise.
- That there will be unity in the body of Christ.
- That I have an inheritance to fight for.
- I believe that I am abundantly provided for.
- I am free from bondage and oppression.
- And that despite what I see I believe by faith that my God is more real than anything I can see.
In former days “We would promise according to our hopes, and perform according to our fears.”
In the last days “We are to live according to our hopes, and perform according to God’s promise.”
In response to our asking to "Promise Me" God says:
“I am not man, that I should lie, or a son of man, that I should change my mind. I have said, and I will do it. I have spoken and I will fulfill it!”
Numbers 23:19
“Promise Me”
Last week instead of my usual walking in with my son for guitar lessons I had an errand to run so I dropped him off at the curb. I told him that I’d be back to pick him up in this very spot after his lesson was over. As he got out of the car (with a little trepidation) he looked at me and said, “So you’ll be back here when I’m done. “ I replied, “yes I will”. To which he said, “Promise me!” So I did.
There is something about the word “promise” that seemingly sets in stone our words – but all too often it is merely a word flippantly thrown out to squelch an objection or end a disagreement.
The bible is replete with what we would call “promises” from God. But in the midst of turmoil it seems like we are left hungry for even a morsel of promise in our lives.
In the book of Amos God delivers promises to his people… most of which are not pleasant – it is that they will be overtaken, placed in bondage and scattered because of their ungodliness and overt sin. However, true to His word God’s punishment is only to a point. He provides them enough ‘hope’ so that they are never overwhelmed by excessive sorrow.
Amos was a breeder, rancher and farmer in the region of Tekoa which was a small town in the region of Judah. He lived in times of material prosperity, stability and expansion to the two kingdoms of Israel (Northern Kingdom) and Judah (Southern Kingdom).
Brief History lesson: Israel had three kings; Saul, David and Solomon. When Solomon died a civil war broke out as Solomon's sons and generals fought for the throne. Rehoboam had his fathers blessing to be the new king, but Jeroboam had more military influence. In the end, Rehoboam took the southern half of the country and called it "Judah". Jeroboam took the northern half and kept the name Israel. Each claimed to be God's chosen king.
Ten tribes in the north formed the northern kingdom of "Israel" and two tribes (Judah and Benjamin) formed the southern kingdom of "Judah."
Amos’ message was directed to the Northern kingdom - Israel. Israel had been victorious in extending her borders and controlled the trade routes hence, wealth began to accumulate in her cities. There was a class distinction between rich and poor, debt was rampant, morality was low – but “religion” flourished. People thronged to the shrines and yearly festivals and considered themselves immune to disaster because, “God was with them.” (HE HAD PROMISED HE WOULD BE). So what do we do when God’s ‘promises’ of never leaving us are overshadowed by real life pain and loss – when disaster happens - did God ‘take back’ his promise?
The scenario found in the book of AMOS is a familiar pattern even to this day; Prosperity, Pride and a wandering from God, Punishment (consequence), Returning to God – Restoration.
Begin reading AMOS 1:1-4 then STOP:
You know what – jump over to 9:11.
Why have I skipped over 9 chapters? Because the day’s of judgment have ended. If you are in Christ there is no more judgment for you. Listen… I desire to be more like Jesus and He says, “I did not come to judge the world but to save the world.” (John 12:47) God is no longer angry… at least He’s not angry with me – I got lost in Christ.
So, this morning is a ‘happy’ morning. Let me show you what I mean – Acts 3:19-20 – “repent therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out, that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus.”
- How many of you want refreshing?
- Refreshing comes from the presence of the LORD.
- God is enthroned on the praises of Israel (His people).
- Tell Him.
What has the LORD done for you this week? Tell Him thank you. If you can’t think of anything… thank him that you have a mind that can think you don’t have anything to be thankful for.
NOW that we have the mindset that GOD is in a good mood: – there are lessons to be learned from the book of Amos
Romans 15:4 –“For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction… so that we might have hope.”
First, Be thankful for ‘grace’ - If God wanted, he has enough to convict you: 1:3, 1:6, 1:9, 1:11 and 1:13 – “For three transgressions… and for four I will not revoke punishment…”
• The idea is sin multiplied on sin –
• Without Jesus… we are without hope.
Second, if it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck… you got it: 3:2-6
If people are together in their ‘walking’ they must agree in the direction to go. The prophets continued to proclaim the same message to Israel. If you are being prompted to begin or stop a certain behavior repeatedly… NOW is the time to take care of dealing with it.
Third, Learn to take a hint (6 times): 4:6-11
• The encouraging thing about God is that He provides “chances” for us. He is on our team – He wants us to succeed – He allows chances to get it right… but eventually “time is up”.
Fourth, you can’t get away with sin: 5:18-19
• Because of sin life goes from bad to worse.
Fifth, Be thankful for gravity – 7:7-9
• A plumb line was used to determine the ‘straightness’ of a wall – if the wall had settled and began to lean it was torn down and rebuilt so as to prevent a catastrophe of the wall falling upon people. God’s word is consistent like gravity – regardless of location it applies equally to all people. There are no ‘favorites’ in the Kingdom of God. Although there are people who have the “favor” of God upon their life. The hope is that because of its consistent nature – people will recognize when they begin to tilt and lean the other way so as to prevent a catastrophe.
Sixth, There are worse things than being without food – 8:11-12
• What’s worse? Silence from God.
Seventh, God is the champion of Hide and go seek – 9:2-3
Finally, the verses in chapter 9 from 11-15 describe a literal time when the nation of Israel will be restored with the return of Christ. While this day may not be ‘that day’ we are progressing towards it. As we embark to bring the kingdom of Heaven to earth we advance the cause of Christ and by doing so usher His return.
That is part of our mission at Summit Life Church; Touch hearts, Transform minds and train disciples for the kingdom of God.
(The kingdom of God and the Kingdom of heaven are used interchangeably)
Bringing the Kingdom of Heaven to earth is what Jesus did: “From that time on Jesus began to preach, saying, “repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. (Mat 4:17)
Again… These are literal things that will happen to Israel when Christ returns. So why am I telling you that? Because, the role of the OT is to provide types and shadows – prophetic images of Jesus and the Kingdom.
For INSTACNE:
• Moses delivered Israel from Egypt (evil) – Jesus delivered us from evil.
• The Israelites demonstrated baptism by walking through the waters of the Red sea, separating themselves from evil. Jesus demonstrates baptism and a “new life”.
• Israel leaving Egypt (evil) is like repentance. Jesus calls everyone to repentance.
• God gave Israel an inheritance – we have been given an inheritance through Jesus as well… heaven.
• God fed the Israelites manna from haven – we have been given the bread of life.
So what? So – because the church is a shadow of the nation of Israel we are able to apply (with type and shadow) the promises found in the OT to our lives today. They are not literal, rather they speak to a ‘shadow’ of what can be expected for believers.
Hebrews 1:1 tells us “Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his son.”
MEANING: In the past God spoke in a variety of ways; prophets, law, psalms – in these last days there is only one voice… Jesus (who is perfect theology). Everything must hold up to the message and manifestation of Jesus.
The prophetic words of judgment and condemnation for those who, by faith believe unto Jesus, no longer apply – Jesus did not demonstrate them. The prophetic words of edification, promise and advancement do apply, because they are demonstrated by the life of Christ.
When we read prophetic promises from the OT we are to apply them to our lives through the life of Christ. The ‘voice of God’s son’. There are many prophetic promises in the OT that align with the ‘voice of Christ’. Promises of freedom, deliverance and advancement.
Q: Then why is it common to remain in bondage to a thought pattern or a behavior and not embrace what has been promised to us?
The bible provides the answer… imagine that. As is evident throughout the bible whenever there is a promise – there is immediate resistance from the enemy.
Mark 1:9-12 – Jesus is given the promise from God, “You are my beloved Son, with you I am well pleased.” – IMMEDIATELY he was driven out to the wilderness being tempted by Satan.”
- V11 – The ‘booth’ being raised up and repaired is the uniting of the 12 tribes of Israel – as they were once under the rule of David. The promise is that there will be unity among the body of Christ. That it is God’s hope that the body of Christ unites and affects the world. The resistance, disunity through being offended. Resentment, doubt, and accusation.
LIFE is about this: Our actions and words either gather or scatter.
- V12 – Possessing the remnant of Edom describes how the Israelites will defeat the world’s system and possess all the nations called by the LORD. The promise is about inheritance – it is about stepping into your destiny. It’s about overcoming the world’s system by seeing with supernatural wisdom and revelation (seeing beyond the veil into ‘that day’) The resistance is an orphan spirit. A spirit that believes, “It’s all up to me.” “I’m alone.” “This life is all I have.” “If I were to ever be myself people wouldn’t like me.”
NOTE: this is about defeating the worlds system… not the world.
How will the worlds system be defeated? Not by war but by the truth of God’s word (Psalm 149:6-8)
- V13 – the plowman overtaking the reaper and the treader of grapes overtaking him who sows the seed. The promise is abundant provision and favor from God. Supernatural necessities given by God to sustain our lives. The resistance is the mindset of humanism. The emphasis on what we do for God instead of what God does for us. An attitude that causes us to believe that by doing what we want to do will become what we want to be. A mind that hears, “I create my own destiny.” “I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul” (Invictus-William earnest Henley).” Humanism presses us to rely on our accomplishments for favor – not God’s unmerited favor. Humanism produces pecking order and manipulation (intimidation = a spirit of witchcraft). Not even Abraham (the father of our faith) considered his accomplishments enough to earn the favor of God – it was his FAITH that was counted to him as righteousness.
- V14 – restoring the fortunes of me people
• The promise is being brought out of bondage. Being set free from malevolence , hopelessness and oppression. The resistance is a spirit of legalism; rules, standards, a spirit of management, rigid, critical. Thoughts like, “I can’t believe they choose to do it like that?” “This is the way it should be done.” If your life is fixed on the promise that God has brought you out of bondage, it will be obvious to the world. PSALM 126
- V15 – Plant them on their land and they shall never again be uprooted out of the land that I have given them
• The promise is stability and security in this day despite circumstantial uncertainty. The resistance is returning to the familiar, to former days of ease. Ideas that sounds like, “It was better when…” “Why can’t it be like it used to be?” “I wish I had it to do over again.” The people of Israel said this, “”Would it not be better for us to go back to Egypt?”
I understand circumstantial uncertainty – starting a new church tends to do that…
- From week to week the numbers are added, the people are counted and the bills are paid (hopefully).
- Yet, here is what I do know. I am immovable, stable, secure and incorruptible because of the Spirit of God that lives in me.
WHY? Because daily - I put off the accuser and remind myself that I am a child of promise.
- That there will be unity in the body of Christ.
- That I have an inheritance to fight for.
- I believe that I am abundantly provided for.
- I am free from bondage and oppression.
- And that despite what I see I believe by faith that my God is more real than anything I can see.
In former days “We would promise according to our hopes, and perform according to our fears.”
In the last days “We are to live according to our hopes, and perform according to God’s promise.”
In response to our asking to "Promise Me" God says:
“I am not man, that I should lie, or a son of man, that I should change my mind. I have said, and I will do it. I have spoken and I will fulfill it!”
Numbers 23:19
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Prayer Requests for Sunday Service 05/09/10
Monday, May 17, 2010
Judy W: I may loose my apartment within the next month and possibly all my furniture, since I have no where to put it and do not know where we will live. I am only elligible for less than $2000 in unemployment total, so that will not last long.
My son is in denial of his alcohol problems and basically all of his problems. my yougenst son is failing in school again and is very upset about our severe financial difficulties.
Please pray for me and my family. We need a lot right now, a miracle or two would be nice.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Molly F: Nephew (Austin) 12 yrs old, very bitter - needs an understanding of Jesus! Cousin, addicted to drugs (Katie), her children (Tessa and Jayden) and my Aunt and Uncle (Matt and Tracey) taking care of her children. Other nephew, (Christopher) who is 18, dropped out of high school and having a baby.
Carly L: "Lord, bless my babies this day in a way they have never known before."
Steve C: Leaving for Tupelo to care for his dad this weekend. Broken neck from November, not healing. Mini stroke last month, can't swallow. Being fed by feeding tube. Believing for full use of throat and neck to heal.
Christina P.: Friend of ours/ family hair dresser, Al Bolivar; his home burned down (electrical fire) over the weekend. Al, and his wife and kids were out of the house, so everyone is ok. Obviously they are very sad and are in the process of "rebuilding." His little girls are 3 and 7 (Clara and Liliana). Please pray for their little sweet hearts and that they get through this crisis with the help of loved ones, friends and of course, Jesus. I spoke with Al this morning and he said although they are still in shock, they are grateful for the blessings that they do have - each other. They will be moving into an apartment in Addison and we will reach out to them as a church to help them with their immediate needs.
SLC: Singles and Marraiges in our church to remain strong in the Lord; keep the eyes of their soul on the Lord. A spirit of thankfulness to reign over us. That as a church body, we keep our priorities in line with God's will. Continued direction and growth with children's and worship ministry. Favor and grace for our very important meeting this Friday with Addison City Manager, Ron Whitehead to discuss ways we can become an intregal part of their community and grow along with them. Upcoming baptism - pray for those that will be baptized on May 22nd; that they will walk in newness of life. Upcoming Taste of Addison event; we will be going as a group - we pray we can be a light in a dark world and that the holy spirit would use us to reach out to those in need that will be attending. Adventure Kids Event May 29; Pray for the neighbors and children that we will speak to that morning. May their hearts be open to hearing about the mission of SLC; TOUCH hearts, TRANSFORM lives, TRAIN disciples for the Kingdom of God. Amen!
Judy W: I may loose my apartment within the next month and possibly all my furniture, since I have no where to put it and do not know where we will live. I am only elligible for less than $2000 in unemployment total, so that will not last long.
My son is in denial of his alcohol problems and basically all of his problems. my yougenst son is failing in school again and is very upset about our severe financial difficulties.
Please pray for me and my family. We need a lot right now, a miracle or two would be nice.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Molly F: Nephew (Austin) 12 yrs old, very bitter - needs an understanding of Jesus! Cousin, addicted to drugs (Katie), her children (Tessa and Jayden) and my Aunt and Uncle (Matt and Tracey) taking care of her children. Other nephew, (Christopher) who is 18, dropped out of high school and having a baby.
Carly L: "Lord, bless my babies this day in a way they have never known before."
Steve C: Leaving for Tupelo to care for his dad this weekend. Broken neck from November, not healing. Mini stroke last month, can't swallow. Being fed by feeding tube. Believing for full use of throat and neck to heal.
Christina P.: Friend of ours/ family hair dresser, Al Bolivar; his home burned down (electrical fire) over the weekend. Al, and his wife and kids were out of the house, so everyone is ok. Obviously they are very sad and are in the process of "rebuilding." His little girls are 3 and 7 (Clara and Liliana). Please pray for their little sweet hearts and that they get through this crisis with the help of loved ones, friends and of course, Jesus. I spoke with Al this morning and he said although they are still in shock, they are grateful for the blessings that they do have - each other. They will be moving into an apartment in Addison and we will reach out to them as a church to help them with their immediate needs.
SLC: Singles and Marraiges in our church to remain strong in the Lord; keep the eyes of their soul on the Lord. A spirit of thankfulness to reign over us. That as a church body, we keep our priorities in line with God's will. Continued direction and growth with children's and worship ministry. Favor and grace for our very important meeting this Friday with Addison City Manager, Ron Whitehead to discuss ways we can become an intregal part of their community and grow along with them. Upcoming baptism - pray for those that will be baptized on May 22nd; that they will walk in newness of life. Upcoming Taste of Addison event; we will be going as a group - we pray we can be a light in a dark world and that the holy spirit would use us to reach out to those in need that will be attending. Adventure Kids Event May 29; Pray for the neighbors and children that we will speak to that morning. May their hearts be open to hearing about the mission of SLC; TOUCH hearts, TRANSFORM lives, TRAIN disciples for the Kingdom of God. Amen!
Monday, May 10, 2010
This Day is a Last Day 5.9.10
JOEL
This day = last day
Joel was most likely a prophet to Judah who brought a message from God to the southern tribes of Israel. As with most prophets His message is to the point and contains three overarching themes: a reminder that they were God’s chosen people, a harsh reality check on their sin a call to repentance and a reminder of God’s never-ending love for them.
The image God gives to Joel in regard to the consequences of their sin was locusts. That just like when locusts swarm the leave the land barren… because of sin life becomes barren. Chapter 1 and the first half of chapter 2 describe the scene: “Stripped off bark from trees leaving them white and barren”, “fields destroyed”, “gladness dried up”, and a “desolate wilderness”.
Have you lived through a day in which you could not imagine how you were ever going to make it through? Like it was your last day here on earth? Where everywhere you turned it seemed like life was hopeless? A day in which you didn’t care if it was day or night… and if it were your last day – that would be fine with you … well you’re not alone:
Joel 2:9-10 – “they leap upon the city, they run upon the walls, they climb up into houses, they enter through the windows like a thief. The earth quakes before them; the heavens tremble. The sun and the moon are darkened, and the stars withdraw their shining…”
So what does the Lord want us to hear through this book? First, breakthrough is often positioned at the brink of our darkest moments. Second this day is a last day and in the last days things are different;
· what comes after is better than what is now,
· loosing is gaining,
· there are signs that make you wonder
· and what is considered ‘common’ is a weapon in the hands of God (3:10)… anything is possible.
In the last days:
- After is better than before
- – 2:14 – “Who knows whether he will not turn and relent, and leave a blessing behind him…”
In the last days blessings will come after God’s involvement – not before. Yet there is something in man that wants the answers “before” we seek God. The world asks for things on the front end – guarantees of success. The world seeks process so as to have an assurance that a result will be favorable. Systems are established that are supposed to give peace and security. Yet in the last days – it is necessary to go through in order to get behind.
In the kingdom we are not given results on the ‘front end’: “Who knows…” – in other words, “It’s at least worth a shot”. The idea is that even if we live life with a humble and contrite spirit, one that is slow to anger and quick to listen, that returns to God with all our heart… there are still no guarantees of victory as we embark on the adventure.
I think the idea is that God has given us enough to base our decisions upon… there is no need for “more revelation” – it’s simply of positioning ourselves behind God and saying… “you lead – I’ll follow”. The ‘breakthrough’ is getting through the mind-set that says, “This is foolish… this does not make any sense…” when we overcome that we position ourselves ‘behind’ God. God speaks to us in this last day… “Am I enough? Even if you loose everything, will you be satisfied with Me?”
- Loosing is gaining – “I will restore the years that the swarming locust has eaten, the hopper, the destroyer and the cutter…” 2:25
What have you lost in you life? Time, favor, honor, authority, relationships… Contingent on your answer to “Whether or not God is enough?” Is the restoration of things that have been taken. In Christ, time does not exist – therefore what we see as ‘gone forever’ Christ has access to… the question is, “Do you really want it?” A typical question with this verse is, “So you mean the relationship I lost 11 years ago will be restored?” Well… possibly… the answer is found in the verse… “they have been eaten”
How many of you want a regurgitated relationship? Yeah… didn’t think so…
In a supernatural exchange God will provide ‘crops’ that make up for those that have been lost. Imagine the production God is capable of? The importance is not on “getting back” what has been taken away – it’s “receiving” what is ahead.
One thought on “restoration”: “Restoration” is taking something and making it more like the original. If I ‘restore’ a dresser, I am not creating something from scratch – I am ‘reconditioning’ it to represent what it looked like in its original design. So in ‘restoring’ the years, God is also capable of making our living more like His original design.
- There are signs that make you wonder – 2:28 – “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. Even on the male and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit. And I will show wonders in the heavens…”
How many of you here are a son or a daughter? How many of you are old or young? In these days God will pour out His spirit on all of us. WHY? To bring the kingdom of God to earth so that many shall believe in the Son of God – Jesus Christ.
This outpouring is recorded in Acts chapter 2 and subsequent “fillings” of the Spirit to; heal, cast out demons, perform miracles (raise the dead), speak in tongues. You could say the signs that happened after the outpouring of the Spirit made people wonder.
According to John 3:3-8 being filled with the Spirit is something that cannot be removed; however, to the level with which you are willing to be filled is the level to which God will fill you:
The Spirit of God is like an inheritance. If you are an heir your inheritance is secure (it’s yours) – however, what you choose to do with the “inheritance” is up to you. As I yield to the Spirit in my life through obedience I am increasingly “filled” with God’s power to bring the kingdom of God to earth… how? Through prophesy, dreams and visions.
- I can quench the Spirit by:
· deceitful lusts
· lying
· unforgiving anger
· stealing
· corrupt words
· bitterness
· wrath
· clamor (screaming)
· evil speaking
· malice (meanness
The bible contains many instances of God performing “earthly” miracles through individuals who were “filled” with the Spirit of God.
The specific gifting mentioned here is prophesy – the anointing of God’s Spirit by dreams and visions to edify the body of Christ. Prophets speak God’s word with power and authority to turn the hearts of the people to God. One of the elements of the prophetic is an anointing for miracles; casting out evil spirits, healing the lame for the ‘joy’ of the city. (Acts 8:5-8) The goal again is to gather people into the body of Christ.
1 Corinthians 14:31 – “For you can all prophesy one by one, that all may learn and be encouraged.”
How willing are you to speak the word boldly? That is the amount you will be filled. It’s sort of like washing your car… if I do not open the sprayer the water is contained within the hose – I have limited the output. When I choose to press the handle – the water flows out and continues to flow as long as I am willing to hold the handle down.
- Common is rare – 3:10 – “Beat your plowshares into swords, and your pruning hooks into spears; let the weak say, “I am a warrior. (lit. “let the timid man become a hero”)”
In the last days, a battle will ensue between those in the kingdom of God and those in the kingdom of Satan. The days of ‘watching the crops grow’ will come to an end. Isaiah speaks to a time of peace in which the sword is beaten into a plowshare and pruning hooks into sickles. In the last days there will be war. The ultimate point of that was is in the Valley of Jehosaphat… Armageddon.
The event described here plainly indicate that the judgment mentioned in this chapter will take place in the form of divine warfare against Israel’s enemies. What is common will be used as a weapon in the hand of God’s army.
A component of the battle is a soldier’s willingness to engage in the war. How willing are you to engage in battle? What if this were your last day? One day it will be. As I live more days I am beginning to recognize the truths about
· After is better than before.
· Loosing is gaining.
· Signs will make me wonder.
· Common is special.
Personally, I have found that if my focus is directed on “THIS DAY” and not “THAT DAY” these truths don’t make sense.
So today - live like it is your last because in reality it is.
This day = last day
Joel was most likely a prophet to Judah who brought a message from God to the southern tribes of Israel. As with most prophets His message is to the point and contains three overarching themes: a reminder that they were God’s chosen people, a harsh reality check on their sin a call to repentance and a reminder of God’s never-ending love for them.
The image God gives to Joel in regard to the consequences of their sin was locusts. That just like when locusts swarm the leave the land barren… because of sin life becomes barren. Chapter 1 and the first half of chapter 2 describe the scene: “Stripped off bark from trees leaving them white and barren”, “fields destroyed”, “gladness dried up”, and a “desolate wilderness”.
Have you lived through a day in which you could not imagine how you were ever going to make it through? Like it was your last day here on earth? Where everywhere you turned it seemed like life was hopeless? A day in which you didn’t care if it was day or night… and if it were your last day – that would be fine with you … well you’re not alone:
Joel 2:9-10 – “they leap upon the city, they run upon the walls, they climb up into houses, they enter through the windows like a thief. The earth quakes before them; the heavens tremble. The sun and the moon are darkened, and the stars withdraw their shining…”
So what does the Lord want us to hear through this book? First, breakthrough is often positioned at the brink of our darkest moments. Second this day is a last day and in the last days things are different;
· what comes after is better than what is now,
· loosing is gaining,
· there are signs that make you wonder
· and what is considered ‘common’ is a weapon in the hands of God (3:10)… anything is possible.
In the last days:
- After is better than before
- – 2:14 – “Who knows whether he will not turn and relent, and leave a blessing behind him…”
In the last days blessings will come after God’s involvement – not before. Yet there is something in man that wants the answers “before” we seek God. The world asks for things on the front end – guarantees of success. The world seeks process so as to have an assurance that a result will be favorable. Systems are established that are supposed to give peace and security. Yet in the last days – it is necessary to go through in order to get behind.
In the kingdom we are not given results on the ‘front end’: “Who knows…” – in other words, “It’s at least worth a shot”. The idea is that even if we live life with a humble and contrite spirit, one that is slow to anger and quick to listen, that returns to God with all our heart… there are still no guarantees of victory as we embark on the adventure.
I think the idea is that God has given us enough to base our decisions upon… there is no need for “more revelation” – it’s simply of positioning ourselves behind God and saying… “you lead – I’ll follow”. The ‘breakthrough’ is getting through the mind-set that says, “This is foolish… this does not make any sense…” when we overcome that we position ourselves ‘behind’ God. God speaks to us in this last day… “Am I enough? Even if you loose everything, will you be satisfied with Me?”
- Loosing is gaining – “I will restore the years that the swarming locust has eaten, the hopper, the destroyer and the cutter…” 2:25
What have you lost in you life? Time, favor, honor, authority, relationships… Contingent on your answer to “Whether or not God is enough?” Is the restoration of things that have been taken. In Christ, time does not exist – therefore what we see as ‘gone forever’ Christ has access to… the question is, “Do you really want it?” A typical question with this verse is, “So you mean the relationship I lost 11 years ago will be restored?” Well… possibly… the answer is found in the verse… “they have been eaten”
How many of you want a regurgitated relationship? Yeah… didn’t think so…
In a supernatural exchange God will provide ‘crops’ that make up for those that have been lost. Imagine the production God is capable of? The importance is not on “getting back” what has been taken away – it’s “receiving” what is ahead.
One thought on “restoration”: “Restoration” is taking something and making it more like the original. If I ‘restore’ a dresser, I am not creating something from scratch – I am ‘reconditioning’ it to represent what it looked like in its original design. So in ‘restoring’ the years, God is also capable of making our living more like His original design.
- There are signs that make you wonder – 2:28 – “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. Even on the male and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit. And I will show wonders in the heavens…”
How many of you here are a son or a daughter? How many of you are old or young? In these days God will pour out His spirit on all of us. WHY? To bring the kingdom of God to earth so that many shall believe in the Son of God – Jesus Christ.
This outpouring is recorded in Acts chapter 2 and subsequent “fillings” of the Spirit to; heal, cast out demons, perform miracles (raise the dead), speak in tongues. You could say the signs that happened after the outpouring of the Spirit made people wonder.
According to John 3:3-8 being filled with the Spirit is something that cannot be removed; however, to the level with which you are willing to be filled is the level to which God will fill you:
The Spirit of God is like an inheritance. If you are an heir your inheritance is secure (it’s yours) – however, what you choose to do with the “inheritance” is up to you. As I yield to the Spirit in my life through obedience I am increasingly “filled” with God’s power to bring the kingdom of God to earth… how? Through prophesy, dreams and visions.
- I can quench the Spirit by:
· deceitful lusts
· lying
· unforgiving anger
· stealing
· corrupt words
· bitterness
· wrath
· clamor (screaming)
· evil speaking
· malice (meanness
The bible contains many instances of God performing “earthly” miracles through individuals who were “filled” with the Spirit of God.
The specific gifting mentioned here is prophesy – the anointing of God’s Spirit by dreams and visions to edify the body of Christ. Prophets speak God’s word with power and authority to turn the hearts of the people to God. One of the elements of the prophetic is an anointing for miracles; casting out evil spirits, healing the lame for the ‘joy’ of the city. (Acts 8:5-8) The goal again is to gather people into the body of Christ.
1 Corinthians 14:31 – “For you can all prophesy one by one, that all may learn and be encouraged.”
How willing are you to speak the word boldly? That is the amount you will be filled. It’s sort of like washing your car… if I do not open the sprayer the water is contained within the hose – I have limited the output. When I choose to press the handle – the water flows out and continues to flow as long as I am willing to hold the handle down.
- Common is rare – 3:10 – “Beat your plowshares into swords, and your pruning hooks into spears; let the weak say, “I am a warrior. (lit. “let the timid man become a hero”)”
In the last days, a battle will ensue between those in the kingdom of God and those in the kingdom of Satan. The days of ‘watching the crops grow’ will come to an end. Isaiah speaks to a time of peace in which the sword is beaten into a plowshare and pruning hooks into sickles. In the last days there will be war. The ultimate point of that was is in the Valley of Jehosaphat… Armageddon.
The event described here plainly indicate that the judgment mentioned in this chapter will take place in the form of divine warfare against Israel’s enemies. What is common will be used as a weapon in the hand of God’s army.
A component of the battle is a soldier’s willingness to engage in the war. How willing are you to engage in battle? What if this were your last day? One day it will be. As I live more days I am beginning to recognize the truths about
· After is better than before.
· Loosing is gaining.
· Signs will make me wonder.
· Common is special.
Personally, I have found that if my focus is directed on “THIS DAY” and not “THAT DAY” these truths don’t make sense.
So today - live like it is your last because in reality it is.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Prayer Requests Sunday Services 05/2 & 04/25
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Christina P: Friend and former employee; Amy Wells passed away this week of Breast cancer. She was 39. Please pray for her parents, brother, and nephews and nieces that live in Houston.
Sue Ann S: Restoration and infilling of Holy Spirit
Karen H: I would like to change careers to lactation consulting. I need to both volunteer and find a clinical mentor. I have found a volunteer opportunity. I am not sure how I can manage working, a baby and volunteering. I pray to do God's will. May it be made known to me. Also I feel convicted that I have a bitter heart.
Tim S: I pray that God continue to expand his voice in my life and his hand on my heart. I pray for Summit Life Church and pray that it will grow in love and Jesus Christ.
The Hoffmans: Our Insurance needs are keeping wife at her job with travel and deadline. We pray for a solution.
Carly L: For my babies! May they feel the love of Christ overflowing in their precious lives! God-may their dad step up!
Tim S: That I grow in teh Lord and live up the life He has clearly planned, I know its already mine, I just have to take it. I want to pray for my mom and sister's heelath and for my sister's saftey in her upcoming surgery.
Saundra and Jon H: We pray for success and prosperity beyond anything we could imagine, as we invest in God's kingdom. In Jesus' name and in His authority.
Jenna W: We ask for prayer for a family member who needs brokeness in their life and for the "blinders" to be removed. Satan is working hard to destruct, and we pray for the Lords' restoration in their life!
Devin R: Pray that God's hand stop desire of bro-in-law to be in court to finalize divorce. Praise: God provided a new job!
Judy W: Please pray for my son David Holland, though he is saved- h has fallen away and drugs and alcohol have replaced his faith. Please pray for me to find the job that the Lord wants me to have.
Christina P: Friend and former employee; Amy Wells passed away this week of Breast cancer. She was 39. Please pray for her parents, brother, and nephews and nieces that live in Houston.
Sue Ann S: Restoration and infilling of Holy Spirit
Karen H: I would like to change careers to lactation consulting. I need to both volunteer and find a clinical mentor. I have found a volunteer opportunity. I am not sure how I can manage working, a baby and volunteering. I pray to do God's will. May it be made known to me. Also I feel convicted that I have a bitter heart.
Tim S: I pray that God continue to expand his voice in my life and his hand on my heart. I pray for Summit Life Church and pray that it will grow in love and Jesus Christ.
The Hoffmans: Our Insurance needs are keeping wife at her job with travel and deadline. We pray for a solution.
Carly L: For my babies! May they feel the love of Christ overflowing in their precious lives! God-may their dad step up!
Tim S: That I grow in teh Lord and live up the life He has clearly planned, I know its already mine, I just have to take it. I want to pray for my mom and sister's heelath and for my sister's saftey in her upcoming surgery.
Saundra and Jon H: We pray for success and prosperity beyond anything we could imagine, as we invest in God's kingdom. In Jesus' name and in His authority.
Jenna W: We ask for prayer for a family member who needs brokeness in their life and for the "blinders" to be removed. Satan is working hard to destruct, and we pray for the Lords' restoration in their life!
Devin R: Pray that God's hand stop desire of bro-in-law to be in court to finalize divorce. Praise: God provided a new job!
Judy W: Please pray for my son David Holland, though he is saved- h has fallen away and drugs and alcohol have replaced his faith. Please pray for me to find the job that the Lord wants me to have.
Monday, May 3, 2010
What to do with the Fallen 5.2.10 Hosea
Majoring in the Minor
Over the course of the next weeks we will be ‘majoring on the minor’. It has been said that the most important keys to success are in the minor details – so with that as our standard we will examine some of the most rich yet often least read books in the bible (besides Leviticus and Numbers) – The Minor Prophets;
With books like; Amos, Obadiah, Nahum and Malachi.
While their names may not be the most familiar their messages are timeless; “when life is barren”, “what to do with the lost” and “what about the future”, “Why”?
So as we take literally Timothy’s charge that “All scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction and for training in righteousness…” I’d encourage you to tell your friends that in just a few weeks you’ll be examining “Habakkuk” and invite them to join you.
We begin this morning with the first of the 12 books that have been designated the non-illustrative title of “Minor Prophets”. Their label is not due to their lack of importance, it is due to their lack of length in chapters. Short and to the point these 12 books say in just a few verses (one of them being the shortest book in the OT – Obadiah with 21 verses) some of the deepest and most profound truths in all of scripture.
Personally, I am excited to separate pages that for many have never been taken apart and come to grip with words given by God thousands of years ago. The major theme of all of them; straight up talk about sin and God’s judgment, God’s love and pity, His yearning over the wayward people, His desire to comfort and bless them and an unwavering sense of god’s faithfulness even when his children are anything but faithful.
Hosea – “What to do with the fallen”
What are we to do with the fallen? Those who, for some reason, have either shipwrecked their faith or have jumped completely into the ocean of sin?
- Are we to let them drown? After all, “They are the ones who chose to jump in…”
- Are we to go and tell others so others, “Can pray for them…”
- Should we embrace them with love and acceptance, “After all the Holy Spirit does a much better job of convicting them than anything I could say”?
- Maybe we should publically denounce their behavior and withhold love until they “repent”.
Dealing with the fallen is one of the pivotal issues facing the body of Christ today. How do we reconcile Titus 3:10 – “As for the person who stirs up division after warning them once and then twice, have nothing more to do with them…” With, “Forgive your brother 70 x 7”?
Hosea is a book that has three predominant themes (as with most prophets); sin, judgment and restoration. Hosea is written during a time of worldly prosperity in Israel to the point that they forget about God and allow idolatry and worldly systems to take precedent. It is a pre-exilic book (meaning the Israelites have not be taken into captivity) – yet their future is on the horizon.
The book of Hosea is a blueprint of how God “deals with the fallen”.
I. Empathize (1-3) –
Hosea’s experience is a portrayal of God’s dealings with Israel. In a type and shadow the ‘people of God’ are now those who believe in salvation through Jesus Christ. Because Israel had abandoned (prostituted) their relationship with God – Hosea (‘salvation’) is instructed to marry Gomer (‘to complete’) who is a wife of whoredom.
• 1:2 – “Go take for yourself a wife of whoredom and have children…”
• 3:1 – “Go again, love a woman who is loved by another man and is an adulteress…”
- It was God’s instruction that Hosea be placed in the same condition why… – so that Hosea may not judge too quickly against those who had fallen. God knew that unless Hosea could empathize with God’s love, devotion, hope and compassion about his chosen people, Hosea would be harsh, judgmental and critical in his dealings with them.
• It’s east to be critical of the fallen…
Empathy is not sympathy
- Sympathy = An inclination to support or be loyal to an opinion
- Empathy = understanding and entering into another’s feelings at times through experience.
Sympathy = a simple nod of the head, “I agree”.
Empathy = exposure/experience –
In dealing with the fallen God asks that we become empathetic to the fallen. Not to excuse their sin, rather to prevent harsh criticism and judgment.
II. Identification of specific sin (4-7) –
- Violent crime (lying, murder, stealing and adultery) 4:2
• Interesting to note that lying is grouped in with murder…
• The point being that in dealing with the fallen each heart knows its own sorrow; not paying a parking meter “feels” the same as robbing a bank to some.
• Sin is sin – there is no sin too small to identify as such. There is deceit in thinking sin is ‘nothing’ but that idea is refuted here.
• Satan accuses in general terms – God accuses in specific pointed terms.
- Hypocritical spiritual leaders – 4:4-9
• We are priests to this world (revelation 1:5-6 – “To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood and made us a kingdom, priests to his God and Father…”– as you go in and out what is your testimony? As you live – what is your life ‘speaking’?
- A spirit of prostitution in worship (Idolatry / systems of worship) – 4:10-19
• This is form without power, rules in a system created by man.
• The exaltation of accomplishment for meeting religious requirements.
- Stubbornness – 4:16
- Religious hypocrisy – 6:6
• False humility, contentiousness, taking a position that scatters instead of gathers.
• Performance instead of adoration.
- Being tolerant of wickedness – 7:3
- Being altered (drunkenness) – 7:5
- Arrogance – 7:10
- foreign alliances / preferring the worlds system over God’s commands – 7:11
- ungratefulness – 7:15
In specifically identifying sin – it prevents being overwhelmed by excessive sorrow.
To deal with the fallen it is necessary to identify specific sin.
III. Allow consequences (don’t protect) (8-10) –
- Allow increased suffering – 8:7 “Sow the wind reap the whirlwind”
• As people fall away from God their lives ‘spin’ out of control… let them.
- Allow financial consequences – 9:2 – “Threshing floor and wine vat shall not feed them, and the new wine shall fail them.”
• Be slow to financially bail out the fallen who are unrepentant.
- Allow being overtaken – 9:6
• The world will overtake them – their precious things will be lost and their dwelling places overtaken by weeds.
o What do weeds represent in the bible? Well – what do weeds do – they choke, entangle and steal, they hinder maturity, they slow down growth and prevent fruit from ripening.
- Understand, that there will be selfish attitude – 9:9 – “as in the days of Gibeah”
• A reference to a time in Israel’s history where they had no king and ‘everyone did what was right in their own eyes) – Judges 21:25
- Let things ‘not work out’ when they should - there may be ‘death’ of some of their most cherished things – 9:13 – “Ephraim must lead his children out to slaughter.
• Relationships, jobs, homes
It is difficult to allow consequences… but (1 Sam 14:6) – “…nothing can hinder the Lord from saving by many or by few.”
Proverbs 19:19 – “A man of great wrath will pay the penalty, for if you deliver him, you will only have to do it again.”
So... when are we to step in?
IV. Restoration (11-14) –
- The Expression of restoration – 11:1-4
• As a loving Father – “When Israel was a child I loved him and out of Egypt (evil) I called my son.” – 11:1
• Being patient – “teaching them to walk” – 11:3 (allowing them to learn at their own pace) – being gentle.
• With balance and support – “took them by their arms” – 11:3b – walking along side of them.
• Providing proper portion at the proper time – “I bent down to them and fed them” (the idea is of a father picking up their child and bringing them to His cheek in an embrace.”
• Not executing sentence on them – rather letting consequences occur and supporting them in the midst of those consequences – 11:9
- The response of the Fallen
• The person must turn from their evil ways (like Jacob) – 12:4 – with tears and a spirit that prevails.
• Accept not only love but justice (fairness) in a spirit of love – 12:6
• They should serve others – 12:12 – Israel (Jacob) served 14 years.
• Full confession of all sin – 14:2
• Restitution – 14:2b
• Disregard of former things (stop doing old actions)– 14:3
• Continual pursuit of the things of God – 14:9
What to do with the fallen:
Empathy
Identification of specific sin
Allowance of consequences
Restoration
Why is it important to know how to deal with the fallen?
Just look around. You and I are in a war – a war in which our fellow brothers and sisters in faith are injured and have fallen; some by their own hand, others by the hand of the enemy who has deceived them.
Samuel Adams said, “He who is void of virtuous attachments in private life is, or very soon will be, void of all regard for his country. There is seldom an instance of a man guilty of betraying his country, who had not before lost the feeling of moral obligations in his private connections”.
- If we leave our brothers and sisters dying on the battle field we have lost all moral obligations and our country stands little chance of maintaining freedom.
- Christ died to set us free… yes, but that freedom is to be extended to all people – whether lying face down or standing on the summit.
“Until they are home… No man left behind”
It is easy to point out the fallen; it is divine to be able to help the fallen back to their feet.
Over the course of the next weeks we will be ‘majoring on the minor’. It has been said that the most important keys to success are in the minor details – so with that as our standard we will examine some of the most rich yet often least read books in the bible (besides Leviticus and Numbers) – The Minor Prophets;
With books like; Amos, Obadiah, Nahum and Malachi.
While their names may not be the most familiar their messages are timeless; “when life is barren”, “what to do with the lost” and “what about the future”, “Why”?
So as we take literally Timothy’s charge that “All scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction and for training in righteousness…” I’d encourage you to tell your friends that in just a few weeks you’ll be examining “Habakkuk” and invite them to join you.
We begin this morning with the first of the 12 books that have been designated the non-illustrative title of “Minor Prophets”. Their label is not due to their lack of importance, it is due to their lack of length in chapters. Short and to the point these 12 books say in just a few verses (one of them being the shortest book in the OT – Obadiah with 21 verses) some of the deepest and most profound truths in all of scripture.
Personally, I am excited to separate pages that for many have never been taken apart and come to grip with words given by God thousands of years ago. The major theme of all of them; straight up talk about sin and God’s judgment, God’s love and pity, His yearning over the wayward people, His desire to comfort and bless them and an unwavering sense of god’s faithfulness even when his children are anything but faithful.
Hosea – “What to do with the fallen”
What are we to do with the fallen? Those who, for some reason, have either shipwrecked their faith or have jumped completely into the ocean of sin?
- Are we to let them drown? After all, “They are the ones who chose to jump in…”
- Are we to go and tell others so others, “Can pray for them…”
- Should we embrace them with love and acceptance, “After all the Holy Spirit does a much better job of convicting them than anything I could say”?
- Maybe we should publically denounce their behavior and withhold love until they “repent”.
Dealing with the fallen is one of the pivotal issues facing the body of Christ today. How do we reconcile Titus 3:10 – “As for the person who stirs up division after warning them once and then twice, have nothing more to do with them…” With, “Forgive your brother 70 x 7”?
Hosea is a book that has three predominant themes (as with most prophets); sin, judgment and restoration. Hosea is written during a time of worldly prosperity in Israel to the point that they forget about God and allow idolatry and worldly systems to take precedent. It is a pre-exilic book (meaning the Israelites have not be taken into captivity) – yet their future is on the horizon.
The book of Hosea is a blueprint of how God “deals with the fallen”.
I. Empathize (1-3) –
Hosea’s experience is a portrayal of God’s dealings with Israel. In a type and shadow the ‘people of God’ are now those who believe in salvation through Jesus Christ. Because Israel had abandoned (prostituted) their relationship with God – Hosea (‘salvation’) is instructed to marry Gomer (‘to complete’) who is a wife of whoredom.
• 1:2 – “Go take for yourself a wife of whoredom and have children…”
• 3:1 – “Go again, love a woman who is loved by another man and is an adulteress…”
- It was God’s instruction that Hosea be placed in the same condition why… – so that Hosea may not judge too quickly against those who had fallen. God knew that unless Hosea could empathize with God’s love, devotion, hope and compassion about his chosen people, Hosea would be harsh, judgmental and critical in his dealings with them.
• It’s east to be critical of the fallen…
Empathy is not sympathy
- Sympathy = An inclination to support or be loyal to an opinion
- Empathy = understanding and entering into another’s feelings at times through experience.
Sympathy = a simple nod of the head, “I agree”.
Empathy = exposure/experience –
In dealing with the fallen God asks that we become empathetic to the fallen. Not to excuse their sin, rather to prevent harsh criticism and judgment.
II. Identification of specific sin (4-7) –
- Violent crime (lying, murder, stealing and adultery) 4:2
• Interesting to note that lying is grouped in with murder…
• The point being that in dealing with the fallen each heart knows its own sorrow; not paying a parking meter “feels” the same as robbing a bank to some.
• Sin is sin – there is no sin too small to identify as such. There is deceit in thinking sin is ‘nothing’ but that idea is refuted here.
• Satan accuses in general terms – God accuses in specific pointed terms.
- Hypocritical spiritual leaders – 4:4-9
• We are priests to this world (revelation 1:5-6 – “To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood and made us a kingdom, priests to his God and Father…”– as you go in and out what is your testimony? As you live – what is your life ‘speaking’?
- A spirit of prostitution in worship (Idolatry / systems of worship) – 4:10-19
• This is form without power, rules in a system created by man.
• The exaltation of accomplishment for meeting religious requirements.
- Stubbornness – 4:16
- Religious hypocrisy – 6:6
• False humility, contentiousness, taking a position that scatters instead of gathers.
• Performance instead of adoration.
- Being tolerant of wickedness – 7:3
- Being altered (drunkenness) – 7:5
- Arrogance – 7:10
- foreign alliances / preferring the worlds system over God’s commands – 7:11
- ungratefulness – 7:15
In specifically identifying sin – it prevents being overwhelmed by excessive sorrow.
To deal with the fallen it is necessary to identify specific sin.
III. Allow consequences (don’t protect) (8-10) –
- Allow increased suffering – 8:7 “Sow the wind reap the whirlwind”
• As people fall away from God their lives ‘spin’ out of control… let them.
- Allow financial consequences – 9:2 – “Threshing floor and wine vat shall not feed them, and the new wine shall fail them.”
• Be slow to financially bail out the fallen who are unrepentant.
- Allow being overtaken – 9:6
• The world will overtake them – their precious things will be lost and their dwelling places overtaken by weeds.
o What do weeds represent in the bible? Well – what do weeds do – they choke, entangle and steal, they hinder maturity, they slow down growth and prevent fruit from ripening.
- Understand, that there will be selfish attitude – 9:9 – “as in the days of Gibeah”
• A reference to a time in Israel’s history where they had no king and ‘everyone did what was right in their own eyes) – Judges 21:25
- Let things ‘not work out’ when they should - there may be ‘death’ of some of their most cherished things – 9:13 – “Ephraim must lead his children out to slaughter.
• Relationships, jobs, homes
It is difficult to allow consequences… but (1 Sam 14:6) – “…nothing can hinder the Lord from saving by many or by few.”
Proverbs 19:19 – “A man of great wrath will pay the penalty, for if you deliver him, you will only have to do it again.”
So... when are we to step in?
IV. Restoration (11-14) –
- The Expression of restoration – 11:1-4
• As a loving Father – “When Israel was a child I loved him and out of Egypt (evil) I called my son.” – 11:1
• Being patient – “teaching them to walk” – 11:3 (allowing them to learn at their own pace) – being gentle.
• With balance and support – “took them by their arms” – 11:3b – walking along side of them.
• Providing proper portion at the proper time – “I bent down to them and fed them” (the idea is of a father picking up their child and bringing them to His cheek in an embrace.”
• Not executing sentence on them – rather letting consequences occur and supporting them in the midst of those consequences – 11:9
- The response of the Fallen
• The person must turn from their evil ways (like Jacob) – 12:4 – with tears and a spirit that prevails.
• Accept not only love but justice (fairness) in a spirit of love – 12:6
• They should serve others – 12:12 – Israel (Jacob) served 14 years.
• Full confession of all sin – 14:2
• Restitution – 14:2b
• Disregard of former things (stop doing old actions)– 14:3
• Continual pursuit of the things of God – 14:9
What to do with the fallen:
Empathy
Identification of specific sin
Allowance of consequences
Restoration
Why is it important to know how to deal with the fallen?
Just look around. You and I are in a war – a war in which our fellow brothers and sisters in faith are injured and have fallen; some by their own hand, others by the hand of the enemy who has deceived them.
Samuel Adams said, “He who is void of virtuous attachments in private life is, or very soon will be, void of all regard for his country. There is seldom an instance of a man guilty of betraying his country, who had not before lost the feeling of moral obligations in his private connections”.
- If we leave our brothers and sisters dying on the battle field we have lost all moral obligations and our country stands little chance of maintaining freedom.
- Christ died to set us free… yes, but that freedom is to be extended to all people – whether lying face down or standing on the summit.
“Until they are home… No man left behind”
It is easy to point out the fallen; it is divine to be able to help the fallen back to their feet.
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