Following is an article I am writing in response to a discussion on Meetchristians.com.
The Messianic Kingdom
New Testament
Expectation of the Imminent Establishment of the Messianic Kingdom by New Testament Writers.
By Kent Secor
All Bible references from the NIV
Part 1
I look to show that the kingdom of Messiah Jesus started in the New Testament times. That the wrath of God upon the rebelling ones of Israel was a part of the establishment of the new covenant kingdom of God in Messiah and was expected by all of the NT writers.
Introduction
The Messianic prophesies promise the establishment of the new covenant kingdom. The Gospel recorded in the New Testament is that of the fulfillment of this promised kingdom, or the gospel of the kingdom. The prophesies state that the Messiah was born with the government of the kingdom upon his shoulders, that it would start small and grow to fill the whole earth.
The New Testament writers all record that those of Jesus day expected the kingdom to start in their time. When Jesus was recognized and declared to be the Messiah come, his disciples understood and expected him to establish his kingdom. They even discussed and argued as to who would be greatest in the new kingdom and sit on Jesus’ right or left hands.
From John the immerser, Jesus himself and the comments of the disciples we can see that all declared that the kingdom of Messiah was present. The kingdom was established with the new covenant ratified by the sacrifice of the Messiah, whose blood redeemed the citizens of the kingdom from the kingdom of death and sin. The kingdom was fully established with the destruction of the old Mosaic covenant rule, and the temple.
It is also clear that the New Testament writers expected the end of that present kingdom of God in Israel to be destroyed in the near future. This too is part of the Messianic prophesies and part of the establishment of the new covenant and the kingdom of God in Messiah.
John warns of the coming wrath, the fire that those cut down would be thrown into. Jesus warns of the wrath of God to come, declaring woes upon those who fail to repent and reject the Messiah of God. Paul declares the end times to be upon them. Peter gives encouragement to wait for the soon end. And John the beloved disciple writes the Revelation of Messiah to his slaves, that all would soon happen.
Jesus born to be Messiah King.
Luke 1:30-33
30 But the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. 31 You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end."
The angel Gabriel declares to Mary that her son would be Messiah King, according to the promise of God through the prophet Isaiah.
Isaiah 9:6,7
6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this.
Isaiah declared that the Messiah would be born with the government upon his shoulders, he would be born King to be king. He also declared that his kingdom would increase without any end. Daniel declared that his kingdom would fill the whole earth. (Daniel 2:35) The angel likewise declared to Mary that her son’s kingdom will never end.
The angel did not say that Mary’s son’s kingdom would start in some distant future. It is the present tense that the angel declares. Mary’s son, Jesus, was born Messiah King, at his birth.
The Magi from the East understood that Jesus was the One Born to be Messiah King
Matthew 2:1-11
1 After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem 2 and asked, "Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him."
3 When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 When he had called together all the people's chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Christ was to be born.
5 "In Bethlehem in Judea," they replied, "for this is what the prophet has written: 6 "'But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will be the shepherd of my people Israel.'"
7 Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared. 8 He sent them to Bethlehem and said, "Go and make a careful search for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him."
9 After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen in the east went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. 11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh.
The Magi came to Jerusalem knowing the prophesies that Messiah was to be born during this time period, according to the word of Daniel.
Dan 9:24-27
24 "Seventy 'sevens' are decreed for your people and your holy city to finish transgression, to put an end to sin, to atone for wickedness, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy.
25 "Know and understand this: From the issuing of the decree to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until the Anointed One, the ruler, comes, there will be seven 'sevens,' and sixty-two 'sevens.' It will be rebuilt with streets and a trench, but in times of trouble. 26 After the sixty-two 'sevens,' the Anointed One will be cut off and will have nothing. The people of the ruler who will come will destroy the city and the sanctuary. The end will come like a flood: War will continue until the end, and desolations have been decreed. 27 He will confirm a covenant with many for one 'seven.' In the middle of the 'seven' he will put an end to sacrifice and offering. And on a wing of the temple he will set up an abomination that causes desolation, until the end that is decreed is poured out on him."
They saw the sign of the Messiah in the stars.
The Magi come to Herod, the king of Israel, asking to see and worship this new born king of the Jews. Herod then calls the chief priests and teachers of the law, who tell him that the Messiah is prophesied to be born in Bethlehem.
John the Immerser expected the coming Messiah King and His Kingdom in that time period.
Matthew 3:1-3
1 In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the Desert of Judea 2 and saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near." 3 This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: "A voice of one calling in the desert, "Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.'"
Mark 1:2-4
2 It is written in Isaiah the prophet: "I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way"—3 "a voice of one calling in the desert, "Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.'" 4 And so John came, baptizing in the desert region and preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.
Luke 3:3-6
3 He went into all the country around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. 4 As is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet: "A voice of one calling in the desert, "Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him. 5 Every valley shall be filled in, every mountain and hill made low. The crooked roads shall become straight, the rough ways smooth. 6 And all mankind will see God's salvation.'"
Isaiah 40:3-6
3 A voice of one calling: "In the desert prepare the way for the LORD; make straight in the wilderness a highway for our God. 4 Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain. 5 And the glory of the LORD will be revealed, and all mankind together will see it. For the mouth of the LORD has spoken." 6 A voice says, "Cry out." And I said, "What shall I cry?" "All men are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field.
Luke 1:12-17
12 When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear.
13 But the angel said to him: "Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to give him the name John. 14 He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, 15 for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He is never to take wine or other fermented drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit even from birth.
16 Many of the people of Israel will he bring back to the Lord their God. 17 And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous—to make ready a people prepared for the Lord."
John came to prepare the way for the Lord. Three gospel writers bear witness. John came preaching that the kingdom of heaven was near, not far off, but near. John was expecting the near advent of the kingdom of God, he knew it to be immanent, to be soon coming, and not a far off promise.
Isaiah proclaimed that all the world, all men would see the glory of the Lord, or as Luke states it, God’s salvation. And we know that all men did see God’s salvation, which is part of the new covenant and the eternal kingdom of God in Messiah.
John also expected the wrath of God on those who fail to repent and enter into the new covenant, submitting to the Messiah King.
Matthew 3:7-10
7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to where he was baptizing, he said to them: "You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? 8 Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. 9 And do not think you can say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham as our father.' I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham. 10 The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.
Luke 3:7-9; 15-18
7 John said to the crowds coming out to be baptized by him, "You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? 8 Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not begin to say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham as our father.' For I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham. 9 The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire."
15 The people were waiting expectantly and were all wondering in their hearts if John might possibly be the Christ.
16 John answered them all, "I baptize you with water. But one more powerful than I will come, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. 17 His winnowing fork is in his hand to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire."
18 And with many other words John exhorted the people and preached the good news to them.
John the last of the great prophets, considered the greatest of the prophets because he prepared the way for Messiah Lord, foretold the soon coming wrath of God on the unrepentant of Israel. John did not warn those who came to him about a great tribulation to be poured out on the world thousands of years in their future, for some future generation to experience. John warned those who came to him about the soon coming wrath of God that they, that generation, needed to flee from.
The image of the axe laid at the root of the tree is a warning of impending judgment. A tree being cut down and burnt up is an illustration of how the Jewish world was to end, with those who were unrepentant, rebelling against God’s Messiah, being cut down and burnt with fire.
John declared that the kingdom and wrath of God was near. John understood that both would happen in the life time of those he preached repentance to. John warned his audiences to flee the wrath of God that would take place in their lifetime.
John also declared that the coming Messiah would both gather and destroy. Gather his wheat, the good fruit, into his barn, and burn up the chaff.
This is a very clear view of the fullness of the establishment of the kingdom of God in Messiah. He came to first collect up his people, then to enact fiery judgment upon the rebellious. He immerses both with the Holy Spirit, and with fire. By immersing with his Holy Spirit he empowers those who believe on his name to become sons of God. By immersing with fire, He brings judgment upon unbelieving and unrepentant Israel. Both are immanent in John’s view.
John told the truth, he was not confused as some teachers today teach. John knew the general time frame when the fullness of Messianic prophesies would be fulfilled, and declared the immediate need for his audience to repent, preparing for the coming new covenant kingdom and flee to coming wrath of God.
In historic order, the kingdom of God was born with the King Messiah. It was established by the ratification of the new covenant by the sacrificial and redemptive blood of the Messiah. With the Messiah coming forth from the grave, then ascending to his throne in Heaven, the kingdom was secured. With the outpouring of the indwelling God, the Holy Spirit, the citizens of the kingdom were empowered to live the resurrection life of the kingdom. Then with the immersion of fire, the old covenant kingdom was destroyed.
Within the lifetime of those who heard John’s message, the fiery wrath of God was poured out upon rebelling Israel, those who did not repent and accept the Messiah of God. All took place within the lifetime of some who heard John preach, some who may of repented before the wrath of God was seen, some who may not have and were caught up in the fire of God’s wrath.
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
Monday, January 09, 2012
Do you Really Believe the Bible is the Word of God?
by Kent Secor
(All references from the NIV)
My question to you all today is, do you really believe that the Bible is the Word of God? Do you believe that Christ gave you specific commands that all believers must follow? Or are some just suggestions, or were only for the first century believers and not for us today?
I have specific words in mind here. My thoughts are about what Jesus taught and commanded regarding our good works towards the poor. Do we really believe that Jesus commands us to help those in need? Or do we try to excuse ourselves so that we don't have to get involved with "those people"?
Jesus taught:
Matt. 19:21 Jesus answered, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."
Mark 10:21 Jesus looked at him and loved him. "One thing you lack," he said. "Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."
Luke 4:18,19 "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor."
Luke 6:20 Looking at his disciples, he said: "Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.
Luke 11:41 But give what is inside the dish to the poor, and everything will be clean for you.
Luke 12:33,34 Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will not be exhausted, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Luke 14:12-14 Then Jesus said to his host, "When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or relatives, or your rich neighbors; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid. But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous."
Luke 14:21 "The servant came back and reported this to his master. Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his servant, 'Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.'
Luke 18:22 When Jesus heard this, he said to him, "You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."
These are direct references from Jesus about giving to the poor.
We have Jesus giving the basis for the judgment of all men as the way they give to the needy.
Matt. 25:40 "The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'
One man's direct response to God's command to give to the poor:
Luke 19:8 But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, "Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount."
Do believe that the bible is the Word of God? That is is the revelation of the will of God and what his good pleasure is for all believers in Christ Jesus? Or is it just words you use to discuss ideas of theology around with?
If you are a follower of Christ, truly born again, and call Jesus your Lord, then you have no other option but to obey his word....
Jesus commands us to give to the poor, it is not an option, it is a matter of how each one of us will be judged. Be faithful as He is faithful and obey his commands and teaching....
Heart to God, Hand to man!
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Normal vs. Nominal Christianity, the Judgement of the Goats.
by Kent Secor
I have to
ask, do we really believe the Bible is the word of God? Do we fully
accept the teaching of Jesus and the apostles and elders as clear
direction for our life in Christ today? Or do we accept and practice
only what we want to and somehow disregard and marginalize what we don't want to obey?
I think that most believers really want to do the will of God. After all he is at work in us to will and do his good pleasure. But have we ignored a vital part of his will in our nominal christian and church practice?
Watchman Nee spoke about the Normal Christian Life in comparison to the nominal Christian life. I have thought about this alot about this subject, since I first read the book in the '70s. I have come to a view point that too much of what we do in traditional and nominal Christianity is at the least unprofitable for godliness and at worse is in direct disobedience and rebellion to the revealed will of God.
To these nominal Christians I see the judgement of Christ upon them. We need to ask ourselves, are we now in this life, accounted to be with the faithful, obedient sheep or the unloving, uncaring, selfish and rebellious goats?
Judgement of the Goats.
Mat 25:41-46 (NIrV)
41 "Then he will say to those on his left, 'You are cursed! Go away from me into the fire that burns forever. It has been prepared for the devil and his angels.
42 I was hungry. But you gave me nothing to eat. I was thirsty. But you gave me nothing to drink. 43 I was a stranger. But you did not invite me in. I needed clothes. But you did not give me any. I was sick and in prison. But you did not take care of me.'
44 "They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty and not help you? When did we see you as a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison and not help you?'
45 "He will reply, 'What I'm about to tell you is true. Anything you didn't do for one of the least important of these, you didn't do for me.'
46 "Then they will go away to be punished forever. But those who have done what is right will receive eternal life."
I must emphasis and repeat Jesus words, what we don't do for the least important of these, we don't do it for Jesus.
Serving the poor, marginalize and the needy is serving Jesus.
I think that most believers really want to do the will of God. After all he is at work in us to will and do his good pleasure. But have we ignored a vital part of his will in our nominal christian and church practice?
Watchman Nee spoke about the Normal Christian Life in comparison to the nominal Christian life. I have thought about this alot about this subject, since I first read the book in the '70s. I have come to a view point that too much of what we do in traditional and nominal Christianity is at the least unprofitable for godliness and at worse is in direct disobedience and rebellion to the revealed will of God.
To these nominal Christians I see the judgement of Christ upon them. We need to ask ourselves, are we now in this life, accounted to be with the faithful, obedient sheep or the unloving, uncaring, selfish and rebellious goats?
Judgement of the Goats.
Mat 25:41-46 (NIrV)
41 "Then he will say to those on his left, 'You are cursed! Go away from me into the fire that burns forever. It has been prepared for the devil and his angels.
42 I was hungry. But you gave me nothing to eat. I was thirsty. But you gave me nothing to drink. 43 I was a stranger. But you did not invite me in. I needed clothes. But you did not give me any. I was sick and in prison. But you did not take care of me.'
44 "They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty and not help you? When did we see you as a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison and not help you?'
45 "He will reply, 'What I'm about to tell you is true. Anything you didn't do for one of the least important of these, you didn't do for me.'
46 "Then they will go away to be punished forever. But those who have done what is right will receive eternal life."
I must emphasis and repeat Jesus words, what we don't do for the least important of these, we don't do it for Jesus.
Serving the poor, marginalize and the needy is serving Jesus.
Notice
what is missing in Jesus teaching here. Nothing at all about judging
the person in need. If they are in need serve them, period!
Nothing about judging if they will use your charity correctly. Just serve them!
Nothing about serving only fellow believers. Serve the needy, period!
Nothing at all to support giving only through tithes and offerings so that some church official can administer it. This is all about your and me personally giving to those in need. No excuses, if you don't give, you are condemned to eternal punishment, period!
This matter of serving the poor and needy is so important to God that to not do it is to be judged guilty of not serving Christ Jesus himself, and is worthy of the sentence of eternal punishment.
Bottom line, it is not a choice for a believer in Christ Jesus to not give to the poor and needy. Normal Christianity is a life of serving Christ by serving others. As the Salvation Army stated, heart to God, hand to man.
Nothing about judging if they will use your charity correctly. Just serve them!
Nothing about serving only fellow believers. Serve the needy, period!
Nothing at all to support giving only through tithes and offerings so that some church official can administer it. This is all about your and me personally giving to those in need. No excuses, if you don't give, you are condemned to eternal punishment, period!
This matter of serving the poor and needy is so important to God that to not do it is to be judged guilty of not serving Christ Jesus himself, and is worthy of the sentence of eternal punishment.
Bottom line, it is not a choice for a believer in Christ Jesus to not give to the poor and needy. Normal Christianity is a life of serving Christ by serving others. As the Salvation Army stated, heart to God, hand to man.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Spur one another on toward love and good deeds
Heb 10:23-25 (NIV)
23 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. 25 Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
Many quote part of this passage to tell you that you must go to church. In the context we see a broader application and meaning of meeting together.
The writer goes from discussing the topic of Jesus as our high priest to encouraging the reader to stand firm in the midst of the persecutions that they were going through. This same encouragement is applicable to all believers in all times who face daily persecution.
"...hold unswervingly to the hope we profess...encourage one another..."
The author is saying we should meet regularly, for the sake of encouraging one another. Part of what we are encouraged here to do is consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. I think most of us know that the type of love mentioned here is what in Greek would be called agape (sacred love). The love that seeks the highest good for the one loved. A sacrificial love that causes one to give up their own needs to provide what is needed for the one loved.
The good deeds mentioned here I think needs to be addressed more. What kind of good deeds are we to encourage each other to do?
When I first became a Christian at age 15, I wanted to know what was required of me. I read the bible to find out what God required of me. I listened to my elders, pastor, teachers about what I should be doing as a Christian. From those early days I came up with a few things that Christians must always do;
1. Read the bible daily.
2. Pray daily.
3. Witness to someone about Jesus daily.
4. Attend Church every time the doors are open.
5. Pay a 10% tithe to the Church.
This is what I was taught from the pulpit and in the classrooms. As I have matured in the Lord and my understanding of the way and will of God, I have come up with some differences in my list of good works.
I base my list on Jesus teaching about what is most important. Jesus was asked what the greatest commandment was. The man who asked him was testing Jesus as to whether he was the true Messiah of God or not. Jesus answered his interrogator that, "the greatest commandment was to love the Lord your God with all of your heart, all of your soul, all of your mind and all of your strength."
Then he added, "the second commandment is sprung from the first, love your neighbor as yourself."
Out of our love for God springs forth the river of living water which is our love for our neighbor. Interesting that Jesus did not say, love your brother. Or, love your fellow Israeli or Jew. Neighbor has a broad application, extending to everyone in need that you meet. Jesus' example of who ones neighbor is, we call the Good Samaritan. From this we know that Jesus was saying that our neighbor is anyone in need of help.
Throughout the Bible God directs Israel to do good works towards three groups. The widows, orphans and homeless in the land. Jesus here is directing the good works to any one in need, any neighbor, even from a differing city.
These days I find my direction towards the homeless. In the past I was blessed to show my love for God by serving with my construction skills on a house for an orphanage. Now I look forward to being able to serve the homeless.
I have been sharing my situation and thoughts on the application of God's word with the hope of spurring you all on towards love and good deeds towards the homeless around you.
23 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. 25 Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
Many quote part of this passage to tell you that you must go to church. In the context we see a broader application and meaning of meeting together.
The writer goes from discussing the topic of Jesus as our high priest to encouraging the reader to stand firm in the midst of the persecutions that they were going through. This same encouragement is applicable to all believers in all times who face daily persecution.
"...hold unswervingly to the hope we profess...encourage one another..."
The author is saying we should meet regularly, for the sake of encouraging one another. Part of what we are encouraged here to do is consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. I think most of us know that the type of love mentioned here is what in Greek would be called agape (sacred love). The love that seeks the highest good for the one loved. A sacrificial love that causes one to give up their own needs to provide what is needed for the one loved.
The good deeds mentioned here I think needs to be addressed more. What kind of good deeds are we to encourage each other to do?
When I first became a Christian at age 15, I wanted to know what was required of me. I read the bible to find out what God required of me. I listened to my elders, pastor, teachers about what I should be doing as a Christian. From those early days I came up with a few things that Christians must always do;
1. Read the bible daily.
2. Pray daily.
3. Witness to someone about Jesus daily.
4. Attend Church every time the doors are open.
5. Pay a 10% tithe to the Church.
This is what I was taught from the pulpit and in the classrooms. As I have matured in the Lord and my understanding of the way and will of God, I have come up with some differences in my list of good works.
I base my list on Jesus teaching about what is most important. Jesus was asked what the greatest commandment was. The man who asked him was testing Jesus as to whether he was the true Messiah of God or not. Jesus answered his interrogator that, "the greatest commandment was to love the Lord your God with all of your heart, all of your soul, all of your mind and all of your strength."
Then he added, "the second commandment is sprung from the first, love your neighbor as yourself."
Out of our love for God springs forth the river of living water which is our love for our neighbor. Interesting that Jesus did not say, love your brother. Or, love your fellow Israeli or Jew. Neighbor has a broad application, extending to everyone in need that you meet. Jesus' example of who ones neighbor is, we call the Good Samaritan. From this we know that Jesus was saying that our neighbor is anyone in need of help.
Throughout the Bible God directs Israel to do good works towards three groups. The widows, orphans and homeless in the land. Jesus here is directing the good works to any one in need, any neighbor, even from a differing city.
These days I find my direction towards the homeless. In the past I was blessed to show my love for God by serving with my construction skills on a house for an orphanage. Now I look forward to being able to serve the homeless.
I have been sharing my situation and thoughts on the application of God's word with the hope of spurring you all on towards love and good deeds towards the homeless around you.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Heavenly Treasure
Heavenly Treasure
By Kent Secor
Much is written in the Bible about wealth and giving. Much that I, in my forty years in the Lord have heard and read little about. We are called to love one another, to serve one another and our neighbor. This is to be in real and practical ways, not just in word, but in actions.
Today I'd like to address the storing of wealth, and how we use it.
Jesus taught that we should use our wealth to assist the poor, and by doing so we will store up treasure in heaven.
Luke 12:13-34 (TNIV)
13 Someone in the crowd said to him, "Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me."
14 Jesus replied, "Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?" 15 Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions."
16 And he told them this parable: "The ground of a certain rich man yielded an abundant harvest. 17 He thought to himself, 'What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.' 18 "Then he said, 'This is what I'll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store my surplus grain. 19 And I'll say to myself, "You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry."'
20 "But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?'
21 "This is how it will be with those who store up things for themselves but are not rich toward God."
22 Then Jesus said to his disciples: "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. 23 Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. 24 Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! 25 Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life? 26 Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?
27 "Consider how the wild flowers grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 28 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you—you of little faith!
29 And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. 30 For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them.
31 But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well. 32 "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. 33 Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. 34 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Life is not made up in the abundance of possessions. Life is more than just buying clothes to wear and show off in, cars, houses, food and drink to consume. We do need these things, but we don't need Rolls Royce cars or even a Lexus car. For $3-5,000 we can purchase a good used vehicle that will service our transportation needs for many years.
We don't need a $5,000 dollar suit, one off the rack at Sears of JC Pennys will suffice. We don't need to eat out at restaurants for $100-200 a plate, we can get great meals for much much less. And fix our own nutritious meals at home for very much less. Its all in how you place value on possessions and temporary things.
Jesus is making a comparison between using the finances that God makes us steward over to set ourselves up or to serve the poor with. We can consume it all ourselves on a higher standard of living, or give it away to the poor and lay up a treasure in heaven.
Jesus tells us to sell everything, give it to the poor. Now get this correct here, neither I, nor Jesus is saying that you must make yourself destitute by selling all of your possessions and giving the proceeds to the poor. Making yourself poor will end your ability to help others. It is only from a position of wealth and abundance that we have to give to others. What he is saying is to not live so high on the hog. Live in more humble means, at a lower living standard. For example sell off the mansion, buy a small house, and give the extra to the poor.
I recall a story about a multimillionaire CEO in England, who when he and his wife became believers in Christ, took stock of their lives and made a very hard decision to live at a lower standard of living. They sold their estate in the country, giving all the servants a very nice severance package. They sold their house in London and bought a simple flat. They sold all of their cars and limousine, and purchased a simple car. The proceeds and extra income they used to serve the needy of London.
If you want to read more of such giving by the extremely wealthy, check out the Giving Pledge.
The point I make here is that each one of us can do this. Some of us have done it, without planning to do so. The economic times we live in have robbed many of the wealth they had stored up, and forced many to live at a lower standard then they previously did. Take stock of where you are now. Consider well the foods you eat, the clothes you wear, what you drive and where you live. Do you need to raise your standard of living when you start to earn more? Or can you live ok at this level, and then use any increase to help others in need?
I encourage you all to consider well and seek first the kingdom of God, to seek to learn and do God's will and give to the poor and needy around you, and lay up for yourself treasure in heaven that is eternal.
By Kent Secor
Much is written in the Bible about wealth and giving. Much that I, in my forty years in the Lord have heard and read little about. We are called to love one another, to serve one another and our neighbor. This is to be in real and practical ways, not just in word, but in actions.
Today I'd like to address the storing of wealth, and how we use it.
Jesus taught that we should use our wealth to assist the poor, and by doing so we will store up treasure in heaven.
Luke 12:13-34 (TNIV)
13 Someone in the crowd said to him, "Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me."
14 Jesus replied, "Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?" 15 Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions."
16 And he told them this parable: "The ground of a certain rich man yielded an abundant harvest. 17 He thought to himself, 'What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.' 18 "Then he said, 'This is what I'll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store my surplus grain. 19 And I'll say to myself, "You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry."'
20 "But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?'
21 "This is how it will be with those who store up things for themselves but are not rich toward God."
22 Then Jesus said to his disciples: "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. 23 Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. 24 Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! 25 Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life? 26 Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?
27 "Consider how the wild flowers grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 28 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you—you of little faith!
29 And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. 30 For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them.
31 But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well. 32 "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. 33 Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. 34 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Life is not made up in the abundance of possessions. Life is more than just buying clothes to wear and show off in, cars, houses, food and drink to consume. We do need these things, but we don't need Rolls Royce cars or even a Lexus car. For $3-5,000 we can purchase a good used vehicle that will service our transportation needs for many years.
We don't need a $5,000 dollar suit, one off the rack at Sears of JC Pennys will suffice. We don't need to eat out at restaurants for $100-200 a plate, we can get great meals for much much less. And fix our own nutritious meals at home for very much less. Its all in how you place value on possessions and temporary things.
Jesus is making a comparison between using the finances that God makes us steward over to set ourselves up or to serve the poor with. We can consume it all ourselves on a higher standard of living, or give it away to the poor and lay up a treasure in heaven.
Jesus tells us to sell everything, give it to the poor. Now get this correct here, neither I, nor Jesus is saying that you must make yourself destitute by selling all of your possessions and giving the proceeds to the poor. Making yourself poor will end your ability to help others. It is only from a position of wealth and abundance that we have to give to others. What he is saying is to not live so high on the hog. Live in more humble means, at a lower living standard. For example sell off the mansion, buy a small house, and give the extra to the poor.
I recall a story about a multimillionaire CEO in England, who when he and his wife became believers in Christ, took stock of their lives and made a very hard decision to live at a lower standard of living. They sold their estate in the country, giving all the servants a very nice severance package. They sold their house in London and bought a simple flat. They sold all of their cars and limousine, and purchased a simple car. The proceeds and extra income they used to serve the needy of London.
If you want to read more of such giving by the extremely wealthy, check out the Giving Pledge.
The point I make here is that each one of us can do this. Some of us have done it, without planning to do so. The economic times we live in have robbed many of the wealth they had stored up, and forced many to live at a lower standard then they previously did. Take stock of where you are now. Consider well the foods you eat, the clothes you wear, what you drive and where you live. Do you need to raise your standard of living when you start to earn more? Or can you live ok at this level, and then use any increase to help others in need?
I encourage you all to consider well and seek first the kingdom of God, to seek to learn and do God's will and give to the poor and needy around you, and lay up for yourself treasure in heaven that is eternal.
Thursday, December 08, 2011
On the Streets of Austin, cont'd
I posted this on a thread I started on Meet Christians, which has generated some great responses. I hope this post will encourage others to get involved with those in need whether the homeless or working poor.
Personally I place little stock in the government assistance programs. They are there, they are being administered by some people that really care, and others that are just there for a job, and some that have become jaded towards the needy they are working for.
For example I went into ARCH the other day to follow up on my job application and the woman at the front desk refused to contact the HR person for me, because I told her I used their mail service one time. Totally bureaucratic and very disagreeable. But then I had to forgive her because she deals with difficult men every day and was responding to me out of her own attitude, which on another day may be more congenial.
Don't get me wrong, I am seeking help from government sources, and do appreciate what is available. I am signed into the VA Medical service and VA Housing Assistance. I am going to a VA housing counselor on Monday afternoon. It has taken almost two weeks to get to talk to someone about housing assistance, after telling my VA caseworker that I was homeless. Red tape and an overtaxed system bogs down all government programs, no matter how they are staffed. And most are understaffed for the number of people they are trying to serve.
So far all my assistance has been from my brethren in the Lord. First from a brother I had never met before and then from two brethren that I have never met face to face.
This has helped to restore my faith in God. Before I left Florida, I stated to the air that I no longer believed in God, for if God existed he would have heard my prayers of desperation and answered them, and at that time I had no answer. It was out of this depth of desperation that I left everything I owned, but for one backpack and one duffel bag, including my dog, and boarded a bus for Austin, TX.
This may well have been the Lord's way to move me, to find his will and purpose for me, but I did not see that at the time. I am starting to think that way and I find now that day by day I am able to trust in the Lord's provision, my daily bread.
It took God's people, the Lord's brethren reaching out and assisting one of the least of these, me, that has caused my faith and trust in God to rise up once again. Today I can say the Lord is faithful and trust worthy, and can give praise to him.
Personally I place little stock in the government assistance programs. They are there, they are being administered by some people that really care, and others that are just there for a job, and some that have become jaded towards the needy they are working for.
For example I went into ARCH the other day to follow up on my job application and the woman at the front desk refused to contact the HR person for me, because I told her I used their mail service one time. Totally bureaucratic and very disagreeable. But then I had to forgive her because she deals with difficult men every day and was responding to me out of her own attitude, which on another day may be more congenial.
Don't get me wrong, I am seeking help from government sources, and do appreciate what is available. I am signed into the VA Medical service and VA Housing Assistance. I am going to a VA housing counselor on Monday afternoon. It has taken almost two weeks to get to talk to someone about housing assistance, after telling my VA caseworker that I was homeless. Red tape and an overtaxed system bogs down all government programs, no matter how they are staffed. And most are understaffed for the number of people they are trying to serve.
So far all my assistance has been from my brethren in the Lord. First from a brother I had never met before and then from two brethren that I have never met face to face.
This has helped to restore my faith in God. Before I left Florida, I stated to the air that I no longer believed in God, for if God existed he would have heard my prayers of desperation and answered them, and at that time I had no answer. It was out of this depth of desperation that I left everything I owned, but for one backpack and one duffel bag, including my dog, and boarded a bus for Austin, TX.
This may well have been the Lord's way to move me, to find his will and purpose for me, but I did not see that at the time. I am starting to think that way and I find now that day by day I am able to trust in the Lord's provision, my daily bread.
It took God's people, the Lord's brethren reaching out and assisting one of the least of these, me, that has caused my faith and trust in God to rise up once again. Today I can say the Lord is faithful and trust worthy, and can give praise to him.
Sunday, December 04, 2011
Why some Christians do not help the needy.
Reasons why Christians don't help the needy.
Why do some Christians (and I use the term very loosely) not help those in need? There is a great need in this down economy for the church to stand up, take up the reigns of charity and help those who are down and out. Many are economic homeless, they lost everything through upside down mortgages that went to foreclosure, leading to bankruptcy, loss of jobs, family dissolution, living in their car, on the streets or in a shelter.
Many of these have no substance abuse issues, no mental illnesses that would prevent them from holding a job that would pay them a living wage. With a job they can rent a house, buy a car, get back into active society and contribute to their community. Many of these I have talked to in Austin are already helping out those who have needs, handing out a few dollars here and there. I have been doing that, giving to all who ask me for a few dollars, which is all I can spare right now. I do have a temporary job, which will end this next week, and can spare some few dollars.
Many Christians in Austin are helping out. There are many churches and organizations that seek to serve the homeless, but there are more that need help then can be helped.
Below I give some of the reasons why Christians don't help the needy, you may think of more. Please consider these, and if one hits you between the eyes consider it the conviction of the Holy Spirit convicting you of sin and convincing you of righteousness and the judgment to come. (John 16:8 )
Keep in mind that at the judgment we will be judged for how we treated the least of Christ's brethren. (Matt. 25:31-46 ) Will you be judged a faithful sheep or an unfaithful goat?
Let each judge himself (2Co 13:5) "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?" (NIV)
Imminent Rapture of the Saints.
One reason that some Christians (in name at least) don't get involved with social services for the needy is they hold that Jesus might come back today to rapture them out of this world's mess. Therefor why try to patch up the sinking ship, when they will get taken out of it. There are statements from some teachers saying this very thing. In other words, they think they are saved, safe and will be rescued, and to hell with those who are not saved...
Extreme Predestination
An extreme Calvinist view of predestination can make some callous to the plight of the needy. Under this view those who were predestined to be saved will escape the coming wrath of God. Those who are predestined to wrath will go to hell, do not pass GO, do not collect $200.... They see no reason to fight God's predestined will and try to assist those whom God has cursed.
This is very similar to the caste system of Hinduism. Where the lowest caste of society is untouchable by the higher castes. They are considered to have their place because of sins from past lives that cursed them to live as the under class and be like dung on the streets. Cows are treated with more respect than the untouchable caste.
Laodiceans
Rev 3:14-22
14 "To the angel of the church in Laodicea write: These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God's creation.
15 I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other. 16 So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.
17 You say, 'I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.' But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked.
18 I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see. 19 Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent.
20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with them, and they with me. 21 To those who are victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne.
22 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches." (TNIV)
These "Christians" think they are blessed of God with wealth, health and their station in life. They don't look beyond their own needs or consider the needs of others. They just don't care. According to John, these are not showing a real love for the brethren and therefor are not lovers of God. (1John 2:11; 3:10,14) They are in danger of being cast out from the assembly of Christ, by Christ himself.
False Brethren
1Jn 3:15-18
15 Anyone who hates a fellow believer is a murderer, and you know that no murderers have eternal life in them. 16 This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for one another.
17 If any one of you has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in you? 18 Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth (TNIV)
These are lovers of self more than lovers of God. They profess Christ, they attend church. They are members in good standing, some serve in leadership roles. But they refuse to personally assist anyone in need. They will drop their offering into the collection plate, bag or box, they will even earmark it for the poor. But they will never give to someone on the street who asks them for some spare change. They will cross the street if they see a bum down the way from them.
By their lack of practical assistance to those in need, they show they are not truly in Christ, that they are not lovers of God and that they really hate the brethren and therefor are as good as murderers in God's judgment.
Conclusion
Jesus says he stands at the door and knocks. The door is the door of relationship and fellowship with Him. This is addressed to believers, or at least those who claim the name of Christ, those who think they are safe from hell's fire and the judgment to come, not to unbelievers as it is falsely used in some people's gospel presentation.
Believers who think they are blessed of God with wealth and health, yet are really poor, wretched, blind and naked. Real wealth starts with a true relationship with and in Christ and with the brethren. True wealth is laid up in heaven by giving to the poor and needy. Let me ask you all, have you ever seen an armored truck going to a cemetery? You can't take it with you when you die, and all that will count at the judgment is what you have done for Christ and the least of his brethren.
I pray for the grace of God to be shed abroad in your hearts that you might repent and walk in true righteousness, extending help to the needy.
Why do some Christians (and I use the term very loosely) not help those in need? There is a great need in this down economy for the church to stand up, take up the reigns of charity and help those who are down and out. Many are economic homeless, they lost everything through upside down mortgages that went to foreclosure, leading to bankruptcy, loss of jobs, family dissolution, living in their car, on the streets or in a shelter.
Many of these have no substance abuse issues, no mental illnesses that would prevent them from holding a job that would pay them a living wage. With a job they can rent a house, buy a car, get back into active society and contribute to their community. Many of these I have talked to in Austin are already helping out those who have needs, handing out a few dollars here and there. I have been doing that, giving to all who ask me for a few dollars, which is all I can spare right now. I do have a temporary job, which will end this next week, and can spare some few dollars.
Many Christians in Austin are helping out. There are many churches and organizations that seek to serve the homeless, but there are more that need help then can be helped.
Below I give some of the reasons why Christians don't help the needy, you may think of more. Please consider these, and if one hits you between the eyes consider it the conviction of the Holy Spirit convicting you of sin and convincing you of righteousness and the judgment to come. (John 16:8 )
Keep in mind that at the judgment we will be judged for how we treated the least of Christ's brethren. (Matt. 25:31-46 ) Will you be judged a faithful sheep or an unfaithful goat?
Let each judge himself (2Co 13:5) "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?" (NIV)
Imminent Rapture of the Saints.
One reason that some Christians (in name at least) don't get involved with social services for the needy is they hold that Jesus might come back today to rapture them out of this world's mess. Therefor why try to patch up the sinking ship, when they will get taken out of it. There are statements from some teachers saying this very thing. In other words, they think they are saved, safe and will be rescued, and to hell with those who are not saved...
Extreme Predestination
An extreme Calvinist view of predestination can make some callous to the plight of the needy. Under this view those who were predestined to be saved will escape the coming wrath of God. Those who are predestined to wrath will go to hell, do not pass GO, do not collect $200.... They see no reason to fight God's predestined will and try to assist those whom God has cursed.
This is very similar to the caste system of Hinduism. Where the lowest caste of society is untouchable by the higher castes. They are considered to have their place because of sins from past lives that cursed them to live as the under class and be like dung on the streets. Cows are treated with more respect than the untouchable caste.
Laodiceans
Rev 3:14-22
14 "To the angel of the church in Laodicea write: These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God's creation.
15 I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other. 16 So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.
17 You say, 'I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.' But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked.
18 I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see. 19 Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent.
20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with them, and they with me. 21 To those who are victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne.
22 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches." (TNIV)
These "Christians" think they are blessed of God with wealth, health and their station in life. They don't look beyond their own needs or consider the needs of others. They just don't care. According to John, these are not showing a real love for the brethren and therefor are not lovers of God. (1John 2:11; 3:10,14) They are in danger of being cast out from the assembly of Christ, by Christ himself.
False Brethren
1Jn 3:15-18
15 Anyone who hates a fellow believer is a murderer, and you know that no murderers have eternal life in them. 16 This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for one another.
17 If any one of you has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in you? 18 Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth (TNIV)
These are lovers of self more than lovers of God. They profess Christ, they attend church. They are members in good standing, some serve in leadership roles. But they refuse to personally assist anyone in need. They will drop their offering into the collection plate, bag or box, they will even earmark it for the poor. But they will never give to someone on the street who asks them for some spare change. They will cross the street if they see a bum down the way from them.
By their lack of practical assistance to those in need, they show they are not truly in Christ, that they are not lovers of God and that they really hate the brethren and therefor are as good as murderers in God's judgment.
Conclusion
Jesus says he stands at the door and knocks. The door is the door of relationship and fellowship with Him. This is addressed to believers, or at least those who claim the name of Christ, those who think they are safe from hell's fire and the judgment to come, not to unbelievers as it is falsely used in some people's gospel presentation.
Believers who think they are blessed of God with wealth and health, yet are really poor, wretched, blind and naked. Real wealth starts with a true relationship with and in Christ and with the brethren. True wealth is laid up in heaven by giving to the poor and needy. Let me ask you all, have you ever seen an armored truck going to a cemetery? You can't take it with you when you die, and all that will count at the judgment is what you have done for Christ and the least of his brethren.
I pray for the grace of God to be shed abroad in your hearts that you might repent and walk in true righteousness, extending help to the needy.
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