Recently I was asked to share my understanding of theology in a 20 minute talk. My understanding of God in 20 minutes. A lifetime of studying and experiencing God in 20 minutes. God, THE Creator and Sustainer of the universe, in 20 minutes. Really? God is just too big. Every time I thought I was finished with my presentation I realized how much I had left out and how much more needed to be added. But all I had was 20 minutes so here are the thoughts I gave to best explain God.
God is love. (1 John 4:8) The defining characteristic of God is love. God defines His (agape) love in 1 Corinthians 13. Love never tears down. Love is never jealous, arrogant, rude, angry, selfish, or resentful. Love always builds up. Love is patient and kind. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.
God is good. Throughout the Scriptures our God of love is seen as good. There is an enemy that seeks to steal, kill and destroy but our good God has come to bring us a rich, full, satisfying, abundant life. “For the LORD is good and his love endures forever.” Psalm 100:5.
God is big. God is sovereign. “The LORD does whatever pleases Him…” Psalm 135:6. God is so big He can turn everything around in our favor and for His good purposes. (Romans 8:28)
God speaks. God speaks crystal clear through His Word, the Bible. You don’t have to guess what God is like or what He wants. God has spoken and continues to speak today to those who have ears to hear.
God is now. God is right here, right now. God is the same yesterday, today and forever. The same God who spoke and did miracles long ago recorded in Scripture still speaks and does miracles today. The same Jesus of the Gospels is alive and at work in His children and church today. God is with you alive and active right now!
Showing posts with label God. Show all posts
Showing posts with label God. Show all posts
Monday, September 08, 2014
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Investing In Your Children
This weekend is our After-Easter Egg Hunt! This is one of the most exciting annual events for our children’s ministry. We are called to be good stewards of the children God gives us. What we do for our children is one of the most important investments we can make in this life. We want our children to love God with all of their heart, mind, soul, and strength. But how do we accomplish such a big task?
Here are some suggestions to help raise our children “up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” (Eph. 6:4)
Here are some suggestions to help raise our children “up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” (Eph. 6:4)
- Make God and your family your priority. You will give your time to the things that matter most to you in life. What possibly could be more valuable than the most important relationships you will ever have?
- Tell your story. Talk about what God has done and is doing in your life. Share your testimony. Share about your life experiences. Your story is important in the lives of your children.
- Be an example... at home, at work, at church, in your spiritual disciplines. Remember, everything you do, both good and bad, is the example you are teaching your children.
- Teach wisdom. The Bible is God’s blueprint for life and godliness. Let it be your guide. Speak and live the Word.
- Show grace. Teach them that grace is always greater than sin. Teach them that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ. Teach them that there is nothing that can separate them from the love of God.
- Encourage. There is no greater motivator in the life of a child than encouragement. Show them you and God believe in them! God created them for a purpose. Push them toward that purpose with positive regard.
- Pray together. Pray often. Take time each day to pray a blessing over your children. Teach them when there is a need, go to God first. Teach them how to listen to God during times of prayer and how to hear His voice.
- Never give up. Overwhelmed? Be faithful no matter what! Parenting is probably the most important and most likely the most difficult calling you will ever have. No matter how hard it gets, don’t give up. If God calls you, He will equip you and give you strength to accomplish your calling!
Sunday, October 02, 2011
God Healed Me
“...I am the LORD, your healer.”
God healed my hip the other week. It had been bothering me for awhile and was getting worse in the recent weeks. It was becoming difficult to walk without a limp.
I was at a pastor’s gathering and after a time of worship, prayer, and the Word the guest speaker began to move in the prophetic. I wanted God to heal my hip so I began to pray that God would speak directly to my situation. The very next prophetic word given was that God wanted to heal someone’s hip. I’m not exaggerating when I tell you God healed my hip as I walked from my seat to the altar for prayer. It was a incredible moment as God’s power was on display! On my next day off I took off to Lake Geneva and hiked over 12 miles around the lake. No pain. And no pain since. To God be the glory, great things He has done!
God is alive and active in our world today. The Bible tells us in the verse above that God is our Jehovah Rapha, God our healer. There are many names for God that speaks to how He is active in our lives. It’s important to remember that God not just Yahweh, He’s MY Yahweh! God is MY God. God is MY healer, provider, strength, victory, etc.
Thanks for letting me share my testimony with you. It’s important to share our testimonies. Testimonies increase faith. When we share what God is doing in our life it increases our faith and the faith of others. It raises our expectation level. When we gather together as the church come expecting because faith is contagious.
Exodus 15:26b
God healed my hip the other week. It had been bothering me for awhile and was getting worse in the recent weeks. It was becoming difficult to walk without a limp.
I was at a pastor’s gathering and after a time of worship, prayer, and the Word the guest speaker began to move in the prophetic. I wanted God to heal my hip so I began to pray that God would speak directly to my situation. The very next prophetic word given was that God wanted to heal someone’s hip. I’m not exaggerating when I tell you God healed my hip as I walked from my seat to the altar for prayer. It was a incredible moment as God’s power was on display! On my next day off I took off to Lake Geneva and hiked over 12 miles around the lake. No pain. And no pain since. To God be the glory, great things He has done!
God is alive and active in our world today. The Bible tells us in the verse above that God is our Jehovah Rapha, God our healer. There are many names for God that speaks to how He is active in our lives. It’s important to remember that God not just Yahweh, He’s MY Yahweh! God is MY God. God is MY healer, provider, strength, victory, etc.
Thanks for letting me share my testimony with you. It’s important to share our testimonies. Testimonies increase faith. When we share what God is doing in our life it increases our faith and the faith of others. It raises our expectation level. When we gather together as the church come expecting because faith is contagious.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Fear
...perfect love casts out fear...
We live in a very different world post-9/11. A lot has changed. And while there have been some positives there is one negative word that I believe sums up the the mood since 9/11. That word is “fear.”
Fear has permeated every area of society. Whether it be the economic world, politics, or even our personal lives it seems everything now is driven by fear. Fear is a selfish, powerful emotion that can control and ultimately destroy us.
When we are afraid we miss the opportunity love and enjoy life. So many people are afraid they are going to lose their job, afraid their kids aren't going to turn out right, afraid their marriage isn’t strong enough to last. When we live in fear we miss the opportunities to enjoy the God-given moments of life. Instead of being afraid all the time be thankful for your job, enjoy your time with your children and your spouse. Instead of living in fear, live in love and thankfulness.
Fear does not come from God. Always remember, His plans for you are good! (Jeremiah 29:11 and Romans 8:28) Take time this week to pray that God takes away your fear and replaces it with His love and then meditate on 2 Timothy 1:7 and experience God’s best for your life... “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
Click here to listen to our 9/11 message about overcoming fear.
1 John 4:18
We live in a very different world post-9/11. A lot has changed. And while there have been some positives there is one negative word that I believe sums up the the mood since 9/11. That word is “fear.”
Fear has permeated every area of society. Whether it be the economic world, politics, or even our personal lives it seems everything now is driven by fear. Fear is a selfish, powerful emotion that can control and ultimately destroy us.
When we are afraid we miss the opportunity love and enjoy life. So many people are afraid they are going to lose their job, afraid their kids aren't going to turn out right, afraid their marriage isn’t strong enough to last. When we live in fear we miss the opportunities to enjoy the God-given moments of life. Instead of being afraid all the time be thankful for your job, enjoy your time with your children and your spouse. Instead of living in fear, live in love and thankfulness.
Fear does not come from God. Always remember, His plans for you are good! (Jeremiah 29:11 and Romans 8:28) Take time this week to pray that God takes away your fear and replaces it with His love and then meditate on 2 Timothy 1:7 and experience God’s best for your life... “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
Click here to listen to our 9/11 message about overcoming fear.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Glamorizing Grace
I’m getting tired of hearing about grace. (I know this post is going to get me in trouble.) Recently I have been listening to people share their testimonies and watching a variety of TV preachers talk about the grace of God and instead of rejoicing I find myself getting haggard of hearing the message of grace. This really troubled me. I mean grace is the ultimate gift of God, right? Grace always wins (Romans 5:20). I love grace. I’ve experienced God’s grace. I preach God’s grace. Grace is essential to the Christian experience. Grace is unique to Christianity, the distinguishing mark among world religions. So why this feeling?
When I took the time to meditate on my trouble with grace I realized the issue was that too often we glamorize grace instead of focusing our attention on the giver of the gift of grace, God. Grace is simply a gift. Grace (charis) is commonly defined as “unmerited favor.” Grace is the ultimate expression of God’s love and generosity to those in relationship with Him. “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God...” Ephesians 2:8
So why my angst? Grace is a big deal! But it is a result of a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Every gift has a giver. It’s the gift that follows the relationship. I hear a lot of people talking about grace and other amazing gifts of God but they talk very little about an ongoing intimate relationship with the Lord. I love receiving gifts, it’s one of my “Love Languages,” but if my wife Leslie gave me a gift and I was more excited about the gift than our relationship, there would be trouble.
This is more than mere semantics. The giver is always greater than the gift. Without the giver there is no gift. While we celebrate the gift let’s not neglect the giver. It is my contention that we glamorize the Giver and then let Him offer the gift. In other words, seek (and preach) Jesus first and His grace will follow.
When I took the time to meditate on my trouble with grace I realized the issue was that too often we glamorize grace instead of focusing our attention on the giver of the gift of grace, God. Grace is simply a gift. Grace (charis) is commonly defined as “unmerited favor.” Grace is the ultimate expression of God’s love and generosity to those in relationship with Him. “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God...” Ephesians 2:8
So why my angst? Grace is a big deal! But it is a result of a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Every gift has a giver. It’s the gift that follows the relationship. I hear a lot of people talking about grace and other amazing gifts of God but they talk very little about an ongoing intimate relationship with the Lord. I love receiving gifts, it’s one of my “Love Languages,” but if my wife Leslie gave me a gift and I was more excited about the gift than our relationship, there would be trouble.
This is more than mere semantics. The giver is always greater than the gift. Without the giver there is no gift. While we celebrate the gift let’s not neglect the giver. It is my contention that we glamorize the Giver and then let Him offer the gift. In other words, seek (and preach) Jesus first and His grace will follow.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Expectation Matters!
“Ye have not, because ye ask not.” James 4:2b
This weekend we welcome our special guest and friend Steve Sampson to minister at Christian Life. A consistent theme of Steve’s prophetic ministry has been expectation. Steve often says, “Our expectation puts a demand on God.”
I believe that miracles pass by millions daily because no one is expecting their arrival. Satan has convinced many to "wait on God", instead of wrapping expectation around an already given scriptural promise.
God is not only moved by our need, He is moved by our faith. Our faith in His promises. Our faith in His Word. Our faith in our covenant relationship with Him.
The women with the issue of blood did not wait for an instruction, she simply declared her expectation... “If I can just touch his robe, I will be healed." (Mark 5:28)
Faith always requires an action.
God is listening. What are you expecting?
Say it often.
Say it aloud.
Say it with expectation!
This weekend we welcome our special guest and friend Steve Sampson to minister at Christian Life. A consistent theme of Steve’s prophetic ministry has been expectation. Steve often says, “Our expectation puts a demand on God.”
I believe that miracles pass by millions daily because no one is expecting their arrival. Satan has convinced many to "wait on God", instead of wrapping expectation around an already given scriptural promise.
God is not only moved by our need, He is moved by our faith. Our faith in His promises. Our faith in His Word. Our faith in our covenant relationship with Him.
The women with the issue of blood did not wait for an instruction, she simply declared her expectation... “If I can just touch his robe, I will be healed." (Mark 5:28)
Faith always requires an action.
God is listening. What are you expecting?
Say it often.
Say it aloud.
Say it with expectation!
Tuesday, February 01, 2011
I Want The Good Stuff!
Don’t be drunk with wine... Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit.
I recently heard that worship leader, Roger Hodges, said that “too often the church is accustomed to getting drunk on the cheap stuff.” Pretty provocative statement, don’t you think? His point was that we settle for too little in our worship experiences with God. We’re satisfied with only a portion of what God really wants to give us. We get so excited about and satisfied with the little that we have that we don’t seek God for more.
The Holy Spirit has been moving in a powerful way at Christian Life this year. The power of God is evident each time we gather together in His name. Each weekend I can’t wait to see what God is going to do in our midst. I sense there is both an excitement and expectancy in our church. I don’t want us to settle or feel like we have arrived. Let’s press in and seek God!
Let’s expect revival in our hearts and in our church! Let’s believe God for even greater things! Are you with me? Let’s be filled with the power of the Holy Spirit! I want the good stuff!
Ephesians 5:18
I recently heard that worship leader, Roger Hodges, said that “too often the church is accustomed to getting drunk on the cheap stuff.” Pretty provocative statement, don’t you think? His point was that we settle for too little in our worship experiences with God. We’re satisfied with only a portion of what God really wants to give us. We get so excited about and satisfied with the little that we have that we don’t seek God for more.
The Holy Spirit has been moving in a powerful way at Christian Life this year. The power of God is evident each time we gather together in His name. Each weekend I can’t wait to see what God is going to do in our midst. I sense there is both an excitement and expectancy in our church. I don’t want us to settle or feel like we have arrived. Let’s press in and seek God!
Let’s expect revival in our hearts and in our church! Let’s believe God for even greater things! Are you with me? Let’s be filled with the power of the Holy Spirit! I want the good stuff!
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Pentecost and the Holy Spirit
When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
Acts 2:1-4 (NKJV)
It’s time to celebrate the birthday of the church! It is Pentecost weekend! This week take time to read Acts 2 to see how it happened! Christ had talked about building His church in Matthew 18. He had promised the Holy Spirit throughout the Gospels and in Acts 1. At Pentecost the 120 were baptized in the Holy Spirit, Peter preached, and 3000 members were added to the church. What a glorious beginning! And the power of Holy Spirit continues today as Christ builds His church.
There are 3 baptisms spoken of in Scripture. Make sure you have participated in all 3.
The baptism into God’s family. “For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body…” 1 Corinthians 12:13
The baptism in water. “Then Peter said to them,...’let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins...’” Acts 2:38. “...and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also-not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a good conscience toward God.” I Peter 3:21. “Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.” Romans 6:4
The baptism in the Holy Spirit. “I (John the Baptist) baptize you with water, but He (Jesus) will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” Mark 1:8. Take time this week to study the following verses concerning being baptized in the Holy Spirit... Luke 24:49; Acts 1:8; 8:14-17; 10:44-48; 19:3-6; Ephesians 5:18.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Your Faith Matters
It is impossible to please God without faith.
Hebrews 11:6 (NLT)
Your faith is matters! God cannot be pleased without faith. God has given each of us a measure of faith (Romans 12:3) and we need to have the attitude of the disciples who asked Jesus to increase their faith (Luke 17:5). Our faith needs to be strengthened and grow daily. We do this by spending time in God’s Word. “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” (Romans 10:17)
Your Faith... Moves Mountains. “So Jesus answered and said to them, "Assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt... but also if you say to this mountain, 'Be removed and be cast into the sea,' it will be done.” (Matt. 21:21)
Your Faith... Gives You Access Into The Peace Of God. “Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God's glory.” (Rom 5:2)
Your Faith... Does Not Need To Be Large To Be Incredibly Effective. “So Jesus said to them, '...if you have faith as a mustard seed... nothing will be impossible for you.” (Matt 17:20)
Your Faith... Can Birth A Physical Healing In Your Body. “...listening as Paul preached. Looking straight at him, Paul realized he had faith to be healed.” (Acts 14:9)
Your Faith... Will Lead You To An Eternity In Heaven. “The reward for trusting him will be the salvation of your souls.” (I Pet 1:9)
Your faith in God has the potential of incredible rewards in your life!
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Prayer Is Optional
Pray all the time.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 (MSG)
This past week I attended a pastors’ retreat. I received the schedule of the days events and there were a variety of events we were strongly encouraged to attend and then I noticed the prayer time was “optional.” Optional? Interesting.
I know that those in charge of planning the event didn’t mean anything by it. And honestly, I’m not trying to find fault. I just wonder how many of us when we schedule the events of our day we make prayer “optional.”
Prayer is the glue in our relationship with God. And we are commanded in Scripture to “pray all the time.” But too often we wait to pray when we need something. Or maybe when think about it. Or maybe when someone asks us to.
What would any relationship be if you only rarely communicated? Or only talked when you needed something? Simply put, no communication, no relationship.
I want to challenge you to schedule a prayer time during each day. And don’t allow it to become “optional.” God loves you. He wants to hear from you. He may even want to say something to you. Make the time.
Why Does God Allow Pain?
The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NKJV)
Last week the staff and I were able to attend the WYLL 1160AM Pastor’s Appreciation Brunch. We had a wonderful time fellowshipping with pastors and church leaders from across Chicagoland. The keynote speaker for the event was Greg Laurie who will be hosting one of his Harvest Crusades in Chicago in the fall of 2010.
Pastor Laurie’s theme that day was “Preaching Through Pain.” He eloquently shared with us that pain reminds us that we need God. That even through the painful seasons of our life we have to have faith in the plan of God. Pastor Greg reminded us that God never tells us His whole plan, He just tells us that He has a plan.
So why does God allow pain in our lives?
- It gets our attention.
- It humbles us.
- It teaches us truths we would otherwise not learn.
- It gives us a new compassion for hurting people.
Don’t waster your pain! Allow God to work in your life as you learn and grow through your pain.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Weddings
…Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her…
Eph 5:25 (NIV)
This is the summer of weddings! We celebrated with Dan and Angela last weekend. Erick and Nerissa this weekend. Steve and Melanie next weekend. The weekend after that we have a family wedding in Kenosha. And that’s just June!
It’s beautiful to watch young love during the ceremony as they hold hands and make their vows to…
To have and to hold, from this day forward,
For better, for worse, for richer, for poorer,
In sickness and in health, to love and to cherish,
Till death do us part.
Hearing these vows remind Leslie and me of the vows we made over 15 years ago. I don’t think anybody really realizes what those vows mean on their wedding day. It’s only after years of life, the daily grind, keeping up the house, disagreements, getting through a financial crisis, kids, miscarriages, health scares, etc. do you really realize what it means to vow to love your spouse in the good times and the bad.
It is essential that we invest in our relationship with our spouse to preserve the vow that we made on our wedding day. The same is true in our relationship with God. We must make investments in the most important relationship anyone of us will ever have. This week get out your Bible, a devotional, a worship CD. Make time for God. Pray. Listen. Enjoy.
Eph 5:25 (NIV)
This is the summer of weddings! We celebrated with Dan and Angela last weekend. Erick and Nerissa this weekend. Steve and Melanie next weekend. The weekend after that we have a family wedding in Kenosha. And that’s just June!
It’s beautiful to watch young love during the ceremony as they hold hands and make their vows to…
To have and to hold, from this day forward,
For better, for worse, for richer, for poorer,
In sickness and in health, to love and to cherish,
Till death do us part.
Hearing these vows remind Leslie and me of the vows we made over 15 years ago. I don’t think anybody really realizes what those vows mean on their wedding day. It’s only after years of life, the daily grind, keeping up the house, disagreements, getting through a financial crisis, kids, miscarriages, health scares, etc. do you really realize what it means to vow to love your spouse in the good times and the bad.
It is essential that we invest in our relationship with our spouse to preserve the vow that we made on our wedding day. The same is true in our relationship with God. We must make investments in the most important relationship anyone of us will ever have. This week get out your Bible, a devotional, a worship CD. Make time for God. Pray. Listen. Enjoy.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
If
Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands.
God always keeps His promises. What a wonderful truth we can celebrate as His children. But what I’m noticing as I study the promises of God is how many of His promises come with conditions. The word “if” occurs over 300 times in the Bible. God says if we obey Him, He will reward us. Here are some of God’s promises that come with conditions.
1. Wisdom. "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him." (James 1:5)
2. Health. "If you diligently heed the voice of the LORD your God and do what is right in His sight, give ear to His commandments and keep all His statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you which I have brought on the Egyptians. For I am the LORD who heals you." (Ex 15:26)
3. Love. "If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love. . ." (Jn 15:10a)
4. Strength. "If you do this thing, and God so commands you, then you will be able to endure, and all this people will also go to their place in peace."(Ex 18:23)
5. Prosperity. "If you are willing and obedient . . . You shall eat the good of the land" (Isa 1:19)
Let’s obey God and then watch His promises fulfilled in our lives.
Deut 7:9 (NIV)
God always keeps His promises. What a wonderful truth we can celebrate as His children. But what I’m noticing as I study the promises of God is how many of His promises come with conditions. The word “if” occurs over 300 times in the Bible. God says if we obey Him, He will reward us. Here are some of God’s promises that come with conditions.
1. Wisdom. "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him." (James 1:5)
2. Health. "If you diligently heed the voice of the LORD your God and do what is right in His sight, give ear to His commandments and keep all His statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you which I have brought on the Egyptians. For I am the LORD who heals you." (Ex 15:26)
3. Love. "If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love. . ." (Jn 15:10a)
4. Strength. "If you do this thing, and God so commands you, then you will be able to endure, and all this people will also go to their place in peace."(Ex 18:23)
5. Prosperity. "If you are willing and obedient . . . You shall eat the good of the land" (Isa 1:19)
Let’s obey God and then watch His promises fulfilled in our lives.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Simple Discipleship
…love the Lord God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence and energy.
Jesus makes things simple for us. By the time Jesus shows up in history the religious leaders had accumulated over 600 laws that you needed to follow in order to be in right relationship with God. It was impossible for anyone to remember all of the laws, so they were constantly trying to distinguish between the major and the minor laws. When asked which is the most important, Jesus answers, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” Jesus goes on to teach that the second most important law was to, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Mark 12:31)
Jesus lets us know that the ultimate Christian creed is to love God and love others. That’s it. Period. Simple isn’t it? And yet, so difficult to accomplish.
I believe more than ever, in our moment in history, we need to be reminded to follow the Great Commandment. Sometimes we have the tendency like the religious leaders of Jesus’ day to make discipleship tedious. The reality is Jesus said, “My yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:30) Ultimate discipleship is simply loving God and loving others. Take time this week to check your heart. How is your passion level for God? How’s your heart toward your family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, schoolmates, etc.? Let’s be doers of Jesus’ words this week.
One final thing I would like to ask you to do this week… please sign up to pray for our nation and President-Elect Barak Obama at www.presidentialprayerteam.org. You can also join others at Christian Life praying in the prayer room on Tuesday Evenings at 7PM.
Mark 12:30 (The Message)
Jesus makes things simple for us. By the time Jesus shows up in history the religious leaders had accumulated over 600 laws that you needed to follow in order to be in right relationship with God. It was impossible for anyone to remember all of the laws, so they were constantly trying to distinguish between the major and the minor laws. When asked which is the most important, Jesus answers, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” Jesus goes on to teach that the second most important law was to, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Mark 12:31)
Jesus lets us know that the ultimate Christian creed is to love God and love others. That’s it. Period. Simple isn’t it? And yet, so difficult to accomplish.
I believe more than ever, in our moment in history, we need to be reminded to follow the Great Commandment. Sometimes we have the tendency like the religious leaders of Jesus’ day to make discipleship tedious. The reality is Jesus said, “My yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:30) Ultimate discipleship is simply loving God and loving others. Take time this week to check your heart. How is your passion level for God? How’s your heart toward your family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, schoolmates, etc.? Let’s be doers of Jesus’ words this week.
One final thing I would like to ask you to do this week… please sign up to pray for our nation and President-Elect Barak Obama at www.presidentialprayerteam.org. You can also join others at Christian Life praying in the prayer room on Tuesday Evenings at 7PM.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Pray. Vote. Change.
Change is coming. This week our nation will elect the 44th President of the United States. No matter what happens on November 4th, there will be new leadership in Washington, DC.
Our Tuesday ballots are loaded with profound consequences for the future. As Americans, we have a right to vote. As Christians, we have a responsibility before God to pray and vote according to the witness of His Word. Proverbs 14:34 says, Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people. It is important, to the best of our ability, that we do things God’s way. The future and God’s blessing of our nation hangs in the balance.
If you fully obey the LORD your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. All these blessings will come upon you and accompany you if you obey the LORD your God: You will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country…
Deuteronomy 28:1-3
As we begin this historic week don’t forget to pray, don’t forget to vote, and don’t forget to remember that God is in control. On November 5th God is still in control of the universe no matter who is elected president. As we have been learning in our study of the end times Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords and His kingdom is without end. Never forget, we were made for eternity, we belong to God, and heaven is our real home.
As you pray (and possibly fast) this week for the future of our nation read Joel 2 and allow God to speak to you from His Word.
You can also check out my blog and most recent teachings at http://christianlifechurch.org.
Our Tuesday ballots are loaded with profound consequences for the future. As Americans, we have a right to vote. As Christians, we have a responsibility before God to pray and vote according to the witness of His Word. Proverbs 14:34 says, Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people. It is important, to the best of our ability, that we do things God’s way. The future and God’s blessing of our nation hangs in the balance.
If you fully obey the LORD your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. All these blessings will come upon you and accompany you if you obey the LORD your God: You will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country…
Deuteronomy 28:1-3
As we begin this historic week don’t forget to pray, don’t forget to vote, and don’t forget to remember that God is in control. On November 5th God is still in control of the universe no matter who is elected president. As we have been learning in our study of the end times Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords and His kingdom is without end. Never forget, we were made for eternity, we belong to God, and heaven is our real home.
As you pray (and possibly fast) this week for the future of our nation read Joel 2 and allow God to speak to you from His Word.
You can also check out my blog and most recent teachings at http://christianlifechurch.org.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
The Greatest Words Ever Spoken: Everything Jesus Said About You, Your Life, And Everything Else
My Book Shelf
The Greatest Words Ever Spoken: Everything Jesus Said About You, Your Life, And Everything Else.
Every now and then I like to share with you what I’m reading. My hope is that it will be a blessing and help to you as well.
Since 1993 I have taught Life of Christ at Christian Life College. It is by far my favorite class to teach. There is something special about diving in and studying the words and works of Jesus. It’s as though you receive your abundant life as you study His.
I try to stay fresh each semester by reading the latest books on the life of Christ as well as the Gospels. This fall I found a great new book called The Greatest Words Ever Spoken by Steven K. Scott. I’ve never seen anything like it. It takes all of the sayings of Jesus (over 1,900) throughout the New Testament and organizes them into over 200 different topics Jesus addresses. It’s like being able to ask Jesus any question and get His perfect answer. I have used the book to study Jesus’ words on the End Times for our current sermon series. A wide variety of topics are covered such as: prayer, forgiveness, eternity, anger, temptations, relationships, grace, and many, many more.
There is a great introduction to Jesus’ life and words as well as short introductions to each topic. This is one of the most exciting resources on the life of Christ I have found in a long time and can’t wait to use it as a text for my course next semester. Reflect on this verse next week and allow the words of Jesus to guide you in life and into eternity.
The Greatest Words Ever Spoken: Everything Jesus Said About You, Your Life, And Everything Else.
Every now and then I like to share with you what I’m reading. My hope is that it will be a blessing and help to you as well.
Since 1993 I have taught Life of Christ at Christian Life College. It is by far my favorite class to teach. There is something special about diving in and studying the words and works of Jesus. It’s as though you receive your abundant life as you study His.
I try to stay fresh each semester by reading the latest books on the life of Christ as well as the Gospels. This fall I found a great new book called The Greatest Words Ever Spoken by Steven K. Scott. I’ve never seen anything like it. It takes all of the sayings of Jesus (over 1,900) throughout the New Testament and organizes them into over 200 different topics Jesus addresses. It’s like being able to ask Jesus any question and get His perfect answer. I have used the book to study Jesus’ words on the End Times for our current sermon series. A wide variety of topics are covered such as: prayer, forgiveness, eternity, anger, temptations, relationships, grace, and many, many more.
There is a great introduction to Jesus’ life and words as well as short introductions to each topic. This is one of the most exciting resources on the life of Christ I have found in a long time and can’t wait to use it as a text for my course next semester. Reflect on this verse next week and allow the words of Jesus to guide you in life and into eternity.
"Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life. Most assuredly, I say to you, the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God; and those who hear will live.” John 5:24-25 (NKJV)
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Ungrateful Children
Last Sunday we celebrated Mark’s 5th birthday. There is something special about a child’s birthday. Their excitement is off the charts. For weeks Mark was announcing his birthday to anyone who would listen. The day of he made sure everyone knew. Since it was a Sunday he may have even stopped you at church and let you know with a grin, “Today is my birthday.”
The weeks leading up to his birthday Mark let us know what presents he wanted. As the days passed the list grew and grew, and unfortunately, we did get almost everything he wanted. At the end of the big day after all the gifts were opened he looked sad. I thought it was because the special day was coming to end, instead he announced he wanted more presents. More presents? MORE PRESENTS!?! Doesn’t he understand how much we had spent? How hard we worked to make his birthday special? More presents?
As I have thought about Mark’s attitude toward his birthday, I can’t help but think about our relationship with God. God is our good and perfect heavenly father. He knows exactly what we need and He faithfully provides every good and perfect gift. And yet, it seems like we always want more. We never are satisfied, acting like a child after he has opened all the presents and still wants more. I was so challenged by Steve Sampson’s Sunday evening message to us last week on “Being Thankful.” I think we should all listen to it again, especially as we move toward the Thanksgiving season.
How do you see your life? Are you focused on what God has provided and is doing in your life or are you always complaining about what you lack? Take time this week to reflect on the following verse.
The Lord has done great things for us, And we are glad. Psalms 126:3 (NKJV)
Friday, October 10, 2008
False Security
I was reading a number of statistics from Barna Research online this week and I came across one that kind of surprised me. Only 2% of people in the United States believe that when they die they will go to hell. Beyond reaching that 2% with the Gospel, we probably need to warn the other 98% that they may not be as ready for eternity as they think especially since most people spend more time planning their next vacation than they do preparing for eternity.
I think one of the reasons many people feel they will make it to heaven is they think one makes it by being “good.” We then determine our “goodness” by comparing ourselves to other people. We look around and feel as though we are at least as “good” as everyone else, if not a little better. But comparisons can be dangerous.
The comparison game can lead to a false sense of security. Comparisons should not be made against others but against who God is and what He says in His Word. We should get uncomfortable when we compare ourselves against God and His Word. We just don’t measure up. That’s the power of daily Bible reading, prayer, attending a small group, and coming to church every week. It may be uncomfortable at times but it’s good to face the truth. We just aren’t “good” enough. But God is good and His grace and love outweigh our ugly sinfulness.
The Good News is simply that Jesus died on the cross for our sins, to take our eternal penalty of hell upon Himself. In return, we can be forgiven our sins and have a relationship with God for this life and all of eternity. Take time this week to get uncomfortable with your “goodness” and then mediate on these two verses.
You… must keep watch! For you don’t know when the master of the household will return—in the evening, at midnight, before dawn, or at daybreak. Don’t let him find you sleeping when he arrives without warning. I say to you what I say to everyone: Watch for him! Mark 13:35-37 (NLT)
For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 (NLT)
I think one of the reasons many people feel they will make it to heaven is they think one makes it by being “good.” We then determine our “goodness” by comparing ourselves to other people. We look around and feel as though we are at least as “good” as everyone else, if not a little better. But comparisons can be dangerous.
The comparison game can lead to a false sense of security. Comparisons should not be made against others but against who God is and what He says in His Word. We should get uncomfortable when we compare ourselves against God and His Word. We just don’t measure up. That’s the power of daily Bible reading, prayer, attending a small group, and coming to church every week. It may be uncomfortable at times but it’s good to face the truth. We just aren’t “good” enough. But God is good and His grace and love outweigh our ugly sinfulness.
The Good News is simply that Jesus died on the cross for our sins, to take our eternal penalty of hell upon Himself. In return, we can be forgiven our sins and have a relationship with God for this life and all of eternity. Take time this week to get uncomfortable with your “goodness” and then mediate on these two verses.
You… must keep watch! For you don’t know when the master of the household will return—in the evening, at midnight, before dawn, or at daybreak. Don’t let him find you sleeping when he arrives without warning. I say to you what I say to everyone: Watch for him! Mark 13:35-37 (NLT)
For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 (NLT)
Saturday, September 27, 2008
A Tendency to Despair
Whenever you study the end times there can be a tendency to despair. The things that are coming can be frightening. Sometimes when we watch the news and see what is happening in our world right now we get scared. But over and over again in the Bible God reminds us not to be afraid. God tells us not to panic or worry. He reminds us He is in control, He is with us, and He will save us.
So the first this to remember when we go through difficult times is don’t be afraid, God is with us. The second thing we need to do is encourage one another. We are meant to build up and help one another. Sometimes the best way to get through a tough time is by lending a helping hand to someone else. By encouraging others, we encourage ourselves.
Another important thing to do when going through a difficult time is to not give up. Keep going, never quit. The enemy is out to stop you and once you stop, he’s won. Don’t give up! Instead of stopping or slowing down increase your relationship with God. Don’t miss church, worship, read your Bible, pray and most of all “Give thanks in all circumstances.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Always remember God knows your situation. He cares about you. Peter wrote to a church that was facing the harshest persecution, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” (1 Peter 5:7) Don’t fret. “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life?” (Matthew 6:27) Paul writes, “May the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way.” (2 Thessalonians 3:16)
So the first this to remember when we go through difficult times is don’t be afraid, God is with us. The second thing we need to do is encourage one another. We are meant to build up and help one another. Sometimes the best way to get through a tough time is by lending a helping hand to someone else. By encouraging others, we encourage ourselves.
Another important thing to do when going through a difficult time is to not give up. Keep going, never quit. The enemy is out to stop you and once you stop, he’s won. Don’t give up! Instead of stopping or slowing down increase your relationship with God. Don’t miss church, worship, read your Bible, pray and most of all “Give thanks in all circumstances.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Always remember God knows your situation. He cares about you. Peter wrote to a church that was facing the harshest persecution, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” (1 Peter 5:7) Don’t fret. “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life?” (Matthew 6:27) Paul writes, “May the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way.” (2 Thessalonians 3:16)
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Continue
These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication.
Acts 1:14 (NKJV)
And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.
Acts 2:42 (NKJV)
There is a principle of continuing in the Christian life. Throughout the Book of Acts the Christians continued in the practice of their faith. There is no such thing as a one time experience in the Christian life. We have a salvation experience but then we “work out our salvation” (Philippians 2:12) We are filled with the Holy Spirit but then we are to be continually filled with the Spirit. (Ephesians 5:18)
So many Christians start the race of faith only to stop after crossing the starting line. We will never be all that God created us to be if we don’t continue. We had quite a weekend last weekend at Christian Life Church. We launched our Randall Road Campus. And let me tell you, it was great! We packed out our meeting room. It was a powerful service! But it was just the beginning. Now we continue each week watching Christ build His church in the far northwestern suburbs of Chicago. We had a powerful Miracle Service last Sunday night in Mount Prospect. It was a great time of praying and waiting on God for the supernatural. But it can’t be a one-time experience. We must continue walking in faith.
No matter where you find yourself today I believe the word of the Lord to each one of us is… continue. You’re not finished. God’s not finished with you. Remember and hold on to His promise in His Word, “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:6)
Acts 1:14 (NKJV)
And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.
Acts 2:42 (NKJV)
There is a principle of continuing in the Christian life. Throughout the Book of Acts the Christians continued in the practice of their faith. There is no such thing as a one time experience in the Christian life. We have a salvation experience but then we “work out our salvation” (Philippians 2:12) We are filled with the Holy Spirit but then we are to be continually filled with the Spirit. (Ephesians 5:18)
So many Christians start the race of faith only to stop after crossing the starting line. We will never be all that God created us to be if we don’t continue. We had quite a weekend last weekend at Christian Life Church. We launched our Randall Road Campus. And let me tell you, it was great! We packed out our meeting room. It was a powerful service! But it was just the beginning. Now we continue each week watching Christ build His church in the far northwestern suburbs of Chicago. We had a powerful Miracle Service last Sunday night in Mount Prospect. It was a great time of praying and waiting on God for the supernatural. But it can’t be a one-time experience. We must continue walking in faith.
No matter where you find yourself today I believe the word of the Lord to each one of us is… continue. You’re not finished. God’s not finished with you. Remember and hold on to His promise in His Word, “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:6)
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