fencepostdigest

Did you know that the birth of the Messiah sparked an end to human secularism which continues to this very day? Oftentimes I have pondered the rise of human secularism in American culture, but as the clock continues to wind down to the return of Christ and the end of time there is something taking place which is largely ignored or unrealized. We are observing, one day at a time, the culmination of God’s plan for His ultimate victory.

Together: God and the Word were in the Beginning

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. 2 Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness covered the surface of the watery depths, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters.” Genesis 1:1-2 and “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 All things were created through Him, and apart from Him not one thing was created that has been created.” John 1:1-3 HCSB. The significance of God, Elohim, and the Word, the Son, being together in the Beginning of time as we understand it cannot be underestimated. The point being that God introduced Himself in human form, in the flesh, became a man 2 thousand years ago. We humans cannot overlook this fact for if we do so our place in God’s scheme of things is also overlooked and underestimated. Sadly, if this is done one’s eternity with Him is tragically denied. “For God did not send His Son into the world that He might condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. 18 Anyone who believes in Him is not condemned, but anyone who does not believe is already condemned, because he has not believed in the name of the One and Only Son of God.” John 3:17-18. Too many individuals in our lifetime call themselves agnostics or atheists or simply refuse to believe in the only begotten Sons, and by doing so, “Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire. 15 And anyone not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.” Revelation 20:14-15. Why would anyone choose to deny what the Bible tells us is beyond my understanding.

God did become a man and was born of a virgin

Matthew’s gospel narrative outlines the genealogy of the Messiah in 1:1-17 which points to, “The birth of Jesus Christ came about this way: After His mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, it was discovered before they came together that she was pregnant by the Holy Spirit. 19 So her husband Joseph, being a righteous man, and not wanting to disgrace her publicly, decided to divorce her secretly. 20 But after he had considered these things, an angel of the Lord suddenly appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, don’t be afraid to take Mary as your wife, because what has been conceived in her is by the Holy Spirit. 21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to name Him Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins.” 1:18-21. Mary “was pregnant by the Holy Spirit” and God chose to make His entrance into this world as naturally as was possible, “because He will save His people from their sins.” Many do deny this and the question then is, “is being in denial worth the eternal risk?”

Mary was engaged to be married to a carpenter whose name was Joseph and the Roman emperor wanted a census to be taken which meant that everyone had to return to their birthplace. “And Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family line of David, 5 to be registered along with Mary, who was engaged to him and was pregnant. 6 While they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 Then she gave birth to her firstborn Son, and she wrapped Him snugly in cloth and laid Him in a feeding trough—because there was no room for them at the lodging place.” Luke 2:4-7. Therefore the birth of the Messiah, God’s only begotten Son, took place in an insignificant village in the area of the world which became Israel in 1948.

History is eternally changed

When Jesus was about 30 years old he met “John the Baptizer” at the River Jordan and, “John came baptizing in the wilderness and preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. 5 The whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem were flocking to him, and they were baptized by him in the Jordan River as they confessed their sins. 6 John wore a camel-hair garment with a leather belt around his waist and ate locusts and wild honey. 7 He was preaching: “Someone more powerful than I will come after me. I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the strap of His sandals. 8 I have baptized you with water, but He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” 9 In those days Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized in the Jordan by John. 10 As soon as He came up out of the water, He saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit descending to Him like a dove.” Mark 1:4-10. This baptism publicly introduced Jesus Christ to the world which dramatically changed history, His tory.

Jesus’ first miracle changed water to wine and from that moment everyone wanted Him around for miraculous purposes and His second miracle demonstrated this fact, “When they entered Galilee, the Galileans welcomed Him because they had seen everything He did in Jerusalem during the festival. For they also had gone to the festival. 46 Then He went again to Cana of Galilee, where He had turned the water into wine. There was a certain royal official whose son was ill at Capernaum. 47 When this man heard that Jesus had come from Judea into Galilee, he went to Him and pleaded with Him to come down and heal his son, for he was about to die. 48 Jesus told him, “Unless you people see signs and wonders, you will not believe.” In spite of this, Jesus healed the man’s son from afar. What we see here and often is that Jesus knows the heart of everyone which determines the eternal destination of everyone. And this is what changed eternal history…a personal relationship with God by faith in His Son. “But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love that He had for us, 5 made us alive with the Messiah even though we were dead in trespasses. You are saved by grace! 6 Together with Christ Jesus He also raised us up and seated us in the heavens, 7 so that in the coming ages He might display the immeasurable riches of His grace through His kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8 For you are saved by grace through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God’s gift— 9 not from works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:4-9.

This relationship with God the Son provides every person an opportunity that has eternal consequences and this changes everything because this is a faith relationship, not one constructed upon how good one might be. It is faith upon the Risen Savior.

“I am the good shepherd. I know My own sheep, and they know Me, 15 as the Father knows Me, and I know the Father. I lay down My life for the sheep. 16 But I have other sheep that are not of this fold; I must bring them also, and they will listen to My voice. Then there will be one flock, one shepherd. 17 This is why the Father loves Me, because I am laying down My life so I may take it up again. 18 No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down on My own. I have the right to lay it down, and I have the right to take it up again. I have received this command from My Father.”

Is your eternity worth the risk?

Some seem to think the risk of denying the Christ is of no consequence, really? Read this and understand. “Then He told them a parable: “A rich man’s land was very productive. 17 He thought to himself, ‘What should I do, since I don’t have anywhere to store my crops? 18 I will do this,’ he said. ‘I’ll tear down my barns and build bigger ones and store all my grain and my goods there. 19 Then I’ll say to myself, “You have many goods stored up for many years. Take it easy; eat, drink, and enjoy yourself.”’ 20 “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life is demanded of you. And the things you have prepared—whose will they be?’ 21 “That’s how it is with the one who stores up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.” Luke 12:16-21. At best a lifetime is very short-lived on this earth and then judgment comes. Most believe that this life is all that there is, but the fact is that God’s eternity awaits everyone. One eternity is Hell and the other is Heaven…is your decision to say ‘no’  and find out? The Bible is true and tells us that to follow Jesus by faith is eternity with Him. You are encouraged to believe now for tonight your life may be demanded of you and then the judgment.

But remember, Jesus is Lord.

The news media is filled with stories about Evangelicals nowadays because of their support for POTUS. But I am always questioning who are these folks of whom the media speaks? None of us can be certain. A list of 200 Evangelical ‘leaders’ surfaced because they occasionally meet at the WH to pray with Mr. Trump some may meet with him more than others, and one of those is Dr. Robert Jeffress, Pastor of the First Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas. There are a few others on that list whose names I recognize and would stand with on most things.

Evangelicals believe this…

What I do know is that Evangelicals do not always believe the same thing. In other words, we come from differing faith backgrounds, but there is one substantial faith statement that can be agreed upon: Jesus was born of a virgin, died on a cross for the sins of all who believe, rose again three days later and ascended into Heaven. There are many divisions about many things following that truth.

The Great Commission is a foundational truth

However, there is one common denominator which really ‘gets under the skin’ of many people who are not Evangelical Christians, and that is the Great Commission which is based upon Matthew 28:16-20, “So the eleven disciples went to Galilee to the mountain Jesus had designated. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him, but some doubted. 18 Then Jesus came up and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.’” NET2. Proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ is who we are.

The Bible is absolutely true

Another statement which most will adhere to is the inerrancy of God’s Word which we believe is written by His Holy Spirit and contains no errors…every word in the Bible is absolutely true. “You, however, must continue in the things you have learned and are confident about. You know who taught you 15 and how from infancy you have known the holy writings, which are able to give you wisdom for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 Every scripture is inspired by God and useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 that the person dedicated to God may be capable and equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:14-17. This is a statement that is not debatable.

The cost of following Jesus is not free…

But, the question is “How serious are you about your faith in Jesus Christ?” Be careful with your answer, “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother, and wife and children, and brothers and sisters, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. 27 Whoever does not carry his own cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. 28 For which of you, wanting to build a tower, doesn’t sit down first and compute the cost to see if he has enough money to complete it? 29 Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish the tower, all who see it will begin to make fun of him. 30 They will say, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish!’” John wrote in speaking of himself concerning Jesus, John 3:30, “He must become more important while I become less important.” And the same is absolutely true for you and me. One who claims faith in Jesus Christ simply ‘must not,’ but cannot allow anything to be more important than the Lord Jesus in his/her life…nothing. If one is to be His follower, Jesus must be the priority, “whoever does not carry his own cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.” What does it cost one to decide to follow Him? EVERYTHING.

An Evangelical Christian is unquestionably the most unwavering ambassador of Jesus Christ. If one claims to know Christ and does not walk a straight line it can be said that Jesus is not a part of that person’s life. Jesus said it this way, “Enter through the narrow gate, because the gate is wide and the way is spacious that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. 14 How narrow is the gate and difficult the way that leads to life, and there are few who find it!” Matthew 7:13-14.

Jesus is Lord.

I have asked this question for a very, very long time. We have introduced the Christmas Tree into our places of worship along with all of the bells and whistles that go along with it. This seems to be a rather pagan thing to do for Christmas Trees are in most every store which is selling wares to be distributed among friends and relatives. And we who claim Christ as Savior argue over whether or not we should call this time of year Christmas or not. Some say, ‘Happy Holidays’ which may or may not miss the point, but this word is really okay for the holiday is the contraction of the two words ‘holy’ and ‘day.’ Nothing really wrong with that, is there? Well, then, “What is your problem with ‘Christmas’?” you may ask. Again, nothing, but we, without question, spend way too much money on gifts at this time of year and whether we will admit it or not we give far less to the cause of missions around the world…at this time of year. If every Follower of the Christ would take 90% of this money and give it to mission causes, perhaps, just perhaps we would further the cause of Christ. By doing so we would honor the Christ of Christmas and bless our families with gifts, too.

Our Witness Must Be True

Every step we take, each word we speak and in every gesture we make our being should reflect who we are in Christ. Because He is our object of worship at Christ we must, in turn, demonstrate Him in all that we do. Jesus speaks a telling truth to a group of folks in the Temple,, “You know neither Me nor My Father, if you knew Me, you would know My Father also.” What we believe is recognized by those around us and this is the reason James wrote these words, “Accomplish the Word you study and not simply one who listens to a teacher.” (my paraphrase.) We are responsible to one another and to our God as well.

Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying, “I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.” So the Pharisees said to Him, “You are testifying about Yourself; Your testimony is not true.” Jesus answered and said to them, “Even if I testify about Myself, My testimony is true, for I know where I came from and where I am going; but you do not know where I come from or where I am going. You judge according to the flesh; I am not judging anyone. But even if I do judge, My judgment is true; for I am not alone in it, but I and the Father who sent Me. Even in your law it has been written that the testimony of two men is true. I am He who testifies about Myself, and the Father who sent Me testifies about Me.” So they were saying to Him, “Where is Your Father?” Jesus answered, “You know neither Me nor My Father; if you knew Me, you would know My Father also.” These words He spoke in the treasury, as He taught in the temple; and no one seized Him, because His hour had not yet come.” John 8:12-20 NASB.

We Celebrate Christmas Because of the Risen Christ

When Jesus’ time had come to die we were then given eternal life because of faith in Him and it was at the sight of the Empty Tomb that all who knew the One Who was crucified was Christ in deed. And this is the reason we celebrate Christmas for if it was not for the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ, His birthday would be meaningless. Therefore, when we put all of those presents under that lighted tree we should be giving those gifts in the Name of the Risen Savior.

“Therefore everyone who confesses Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father who is in heaven. But whoever denies Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father who is in heaven. “Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I came to SET A MAN AGAINST HIS FATHER, AND A DAUGHTER AGAINST HER MOTHER, AND A DAUGHTER-IN-LAW AGAINST HER MOTHER-IN-LAW; and A MAN’S ENEMIES WILL BE THE MEMBERS OF HIS HOUSEHOLD. “He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. He who has found his life will lose it, and he who has lost his life for My sake will find it.” Matthew 10:32-39.

Jesus is Lord.

What do I mean when I write, “Christians will not/can not vote for or be a Democrat.” There is much disagreement this and I understand, but here is the reason(s).

The platform of the DNC supports:

“We believe unequivocally, like the majority of Americans, that every woman should have access to quality reproductive health care services, including safe and legal abortion.”Abortion is the murder of the unborn and newly born infants.

“Guaranteeing Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Rights.” Gay rights which in and of itself is sodomy. There is more, but this is enough.

The Word of God is Clear

The Word of God refers to murder and sodomy as sin and I will not categorize one as being worse than another for Scripture simply states that all wrong-doing is sin. Jesus is clear about those who claim to follow Him, “A good tree doesn’t produce bad fruit; on the other hand, a bad tree doesn’t produce good fruit. 44 For each tree is known by its own fruit. Figs aren’t gathered from thornbushes, or grapes picked from a bramble bush. 45 A good man produces good out of the good storeroom of his heart. An evil man produces evil out of the evil storeroom, for his mouth speaks from the overflow of the heart.” Luke 6:43-45. And James writes, “Therefore, ridding yourselves of all moral filth and evil, humbly receive the implanted word, which is able to save you. 22 But be doers of the word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. 23 Because if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man looking at his own face in a mirror. 24 For he looks at himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. 25 But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom and perseveres in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but one who does good works—this person will be blessed in what he does.” James 1:21-25.

No, Christians will not vote for nor participate in the political process as a Democrat primarily for the reasons that are stated in writing within the Democratic National Convention platform.

However, there is another reason that is not stated, but has played out on the International scene. The support of Israel is a powerful statement and has been made by the Administration of Donald Trump. The Bible has this to say, “The Lord said to Abram: Go out from your land, your relatives, and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. 2 I will make you into a great nation, I will bless you, I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, I will curse those who treat you with contempt, and all the peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”

Jesus is Lord.

The Holman Christian Standard Bible is used for each Bible quotation.

I must ask myself, “What does my political bias say about me?” I am a conservative and voted for Mr. Trump. Am I a Republican? I am not so sure because that name tag could mean many things, therefore, I will not call myself a Republican to be a part of the group. I voted for Trump and I am a conservative which then may indicate that I am on the right side of the Republican aisle. However, there is more to this than my political opinions.

Paul, the Apostle writes, “For this gospel I was appointed a preacher and apostle and teacher. 12 Because of this, in fact, I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, because I know the one in whom my faith is set and I am convinced that he is able to protect what has been entrusted to me until that day. 13 Hold to the standard of sound words that you heard from me and do so with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. 14 Protect that good thing entrusted to you, through the Holy Spirit who lives within us.” 2 Timothy 1:11-14 NET2. “But which gospel,” you might ask? The Apostle answers that, too. “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is God’s power for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. 17 For the righteousness of God is revealed in the gospel from faith to faith, just as it is written, “The righteous by faith will live.” Romans 1:16-17. (Space does not permit to fill in those blanks, but I will suggest one read 2 Timothy chapter one and Romans chapter 1 which will lead to other contexts.)

My point is simple, my political bias or opinions are based upon this statement, “You, however, must continue in the things you have learned and are confident about. You know who taught you 15 and how from infancy you have known the holy writings, which are able to give you wisdom for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 Every scripture is inspired by God and useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 that the person dedicated to God may be capable and equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 2:14-17. The Word of God is the foundation upon which I build my life and rest my political bias upon. But, this is not all for there is one more quotation I will put here.

“We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.” – – Preamble to the Constitution of the United States of America.

The editor of a so-called Christian magazine wrote his editorial subjectively based on a charge of immorality to which I thought, “WHOA, wait a minute!” Each of us is guilty of sin and prejudice, are we not? Immorality and sodomy? Really? Those who are guilty of impeaching the President fo the United States support sodomy, the murder of babies before and immediately after birth, and the list goes on. Our President abhors these things and supports Israel whereas the Democrats do not. One thing certain: The vast majority of conservative Christians, if not each one, most likely disagrees with the editorial. Franklin Graham writes that his father, Billy Graham who is the founder of the magazine, most certainly would have disagreed. The magazine obviously does not represent the biblical side of Chrisitan faith.

Believers Must Separate Themselves

And, yes, I am narrow-minded…really narrow-minded to a fault on some things. However, my skin is thick and tough as nails on most things, but when some who claim to be ‘Christian’ will support sodomy and the murder of babies my patience wears out. The Word of God points out that those who participate in these two things and more will not have a place in His kingdom,   “Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived! The sexually immoral, idolaters, adulterers, passive homosexual partners, practicing homosexuals, thieves, the greedy, drunkards, the verbally abusive, and swindlers will not inherit the kingdom of God.” 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 NET2 and there is this, “But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, depravity, idolatry, sorcery, hostilities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish rivalries, dissensions, factions, envying, murder, drunkenness, carousing, and similar things. I am warning you, as I had warned you before: Those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God!” Galatians 5:18-21. Paul asks in 2 Corinthians 6:15, “what does a believer share in common with an unbeliever?” before he instructs in verse 17, “Therefore “come out from their midst, and be separate,” says the Lord, “and touch no unclean thing, and I will welcome you.” Enough is enough.

Exposing the Darkness

“Let nobody deceive you with empty words, for because of these things God’s wrath comes on the sons of disobedience. 7 Therefore do not be sharers with them, 8 for you were at one-time darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live like children of light— 9 for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness, and truth— 10 trying to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. 11 Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. 12 For the things they do in secret are shameful even to mention. 13 But all things being exposed by the light are made visible. 14 For everything made visible is light, and for this reason it says: “Awake, O sleeper! Rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you!”  Ephesians 5:6-14. Those who have been called of God as Messengers of the Good News have a responsibility to stand firm in it, to uphold the truths found therein, and sometimes people laugh at the results. No matter the difficulty faced by preachers/evangelists/missionaries they are not to be taken lightly when they are exposing the darkness around them.

Removing the Blessing

In 2 Kings 2:23-25 is found the brief account of Elisha being harrassed by a group of young men; 42 in number. Elisha rejected their words and ‘cursed’ them in verse 24. Literally speaking he called upon God to punish them, to judge them. Immediately God did punish them and 2 female bears attacked these boys and slaughtered them. The point is; it is not good to mistreat those God has called into His service, be careful of what is done to them. My guess is that if Elisha were alive today he would be arrested and charged and tried in a court of law much less allowed into a local church somewhere. The problem is that Elisha could have been the source of God’s blessing upon those boys, but their taunts led to a horrible death.

God’s Word is replete with similar stories of lying and deceit, and the result of such is never pretty. Some Christian leaders are convinced that Donald Trump is a new Believer in Jesus Christ and have surrounded him with their prayers and support. I believe them. Dr. Robert Jeffress is among them and the Pastor of the First Baptist Church in Dallas, but here is the issue. Some among us who claim to Christians are doing some laughing directed at the President and those Christian leaders who surround him. This is not a good thing to be doing for God may very well remove His protection or blessing from those who are scornful. What I do is to walk away from them and make certain that I keep a safe distance away from them. This is prudent.

Jesus is Lord.

Perhaps the most difficult task of every person alive is that of being accountable to someone and this is most notable within the Body of Christ. I will be the first to speak up for I understand that being accountable to another is the most difficult assignment that has been given to me. However, over the course of these 70+ years, accountability has always been on my ‘to do’ list.

In the beginning, I was accountable to my parents and older brothers, and my siblings were brutal!!. When in the homes of aunts and uncles or grandparents my accountability was to them. At Sunday School another set of adults became my authority figures and the list goes on and on and on. Sometimes I did not especially like for someone to have authority over me, but as I have learned, God prepares those folks for reasons we do not always understand.

We Will Give Account of ‘Self’ to God

The question then arises, “Where does this ‘authority’ come from?” Because the Bible and the Church has been a ‘constant’ in my life, literally from the moment of birth (my parents enrolled me in the “Cradle Roll Department” the first Sunday after the Monday I was born) church attendance was the norm. Accountability was understood although I most likely did not hear the word often and probably did not see the word in print until my teenage years. Webster’s Dictionary, no doubt, is the place I found the meaning. The practice of accountability was in place long before there was a cognitive understanding of it.

I am and you are accountable to someone most of the time and to God all of the time. “For none of us lives for himself and none dies for himself. 8 If we live, we live for the Lord; if we die, we die for the Lord. Therefore, whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s. 9 For this reason Christ died and returned to life, so that he may be the Lord of both the dead and the living. 10 But you who eat vegetables only—why do you judge your brother or sister? And you who eat everything—why do you despise your brother or sister? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God. 11 For it is written, “As I live, says the Lord, every knee will bow to me, and every tongue will give praise to God.” 12 Therefore, each of us will give an account of himself to God.” Romans 14:7-12 NET2.

Everyone has most likely been accused of ‘judging another’ simply because of what another dislikes. At issue here is the fact that Jesus told a group of Pharisees not to judge another. However, in most cases today Jesus’ statement has been abused because there is a prominent misuse and misunderstanding of God’s Word. There is a valid argument, however.

Authority of God in Accountability

Our first responsibility is with the authority of God which comes to us from His Word and in His presence. We are accountable to Him primarily and His inerrant Word is our source of knowledge. No doubt the matter of interpretation comes into play and that is the reason, at least in my opinion, there are scores of denominations who claim they each have the truth and everyone else is incorrect. For this reason, not everyone will agree with what I write herein. But, let us begin with the premise that God does have the final authority over us and move on with this understanding. Paul reminds us, “ For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God.”

In 1 Corinthians chapter 12 Paul discusses the matter of spiritual gifts that are distributed according to the decision of the Holy Spirit whereas every person is important, “But as a matter of fact, God has placed each of the members in the body just as he decided. 19 If they were all the same member, where would the body be? 20 So now there are many members, but one body.” Each member is just as important as the next and accountable to one another, not being subject to the other, but simply accountable to one another in faith. But this faith is obvious by how we utilize our spiritual gifts. ”So also faith, if it does not have works, is dead being by itself. 18 But someone will say, “You have faith and I have works.” Show me your faith without works and I will show you faith by my works. 19 You believe that God is one; well and good. Even the demons believe that—and tremble with fear. 20 But would you like evidence, you empty fellow, that faith without works is useless? 21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar? 22 You see that his faith was working together with his works and his faith was perfected by works.” James 2:17-22.

Accountability requires that our faith is actively demonstrated by our actions, by the use of the spiritual gift given by the Spirit of God. Much is given to the faithful steward of that which is provided by God. Spiritual growth is often called righteousness or sanctification, but sadly are often misunderstood terms and used to denigrate brothers and sisters in Christ. This is not accountability, but judgment.

Often times those who misunderstand spiritual growth, righteousness and sanctification defend themselves by inaccurately accusing another with the phrase ‘you are self-righteous.’ Granted, those who are spiritually mature, are righteous and progressing in sanctification sometimes misuse or appear to misuse the Word of God when correctly describing those who are lost and without Christ. In the end everyone is accountable to God and our actions and words give testament to who we are, “Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is known by its fruit. 34 Offspring of vipers! How are you able to say anything good, since you are evil? For the mouth speaks from what fills the heart. 35 The good person brings good things out of his good treasury, and the evil person brings evil things out of his evil treasury. 36 I tell you that on the day of judgment, people will give an account for every worthless word they speak. 37 For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” Matthew 12:33-37. We must make certain that our words reflect our actions and our actions reflect our words.

Can You Identify With These People?

The Bible is replete with written accounts of people who have demonstrated just how our accountability to God functions. Here are a shortlist of names whose lives reflect that fact: Adam and Eve, Cain and Able, Moses, David, Joseph, Ruth, Esther, Samson, Samuel, Jonah, Noah, Nehemiah, Isaiah, Gideon, Ezekiel, Daniel, Mary, Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Peter, Paul, Timothy, James, Titus, Barnabas, and the list goes on. However, the Master Teacher is Jesus Christ when He said to the Father, “Not my will, but Your will be done…” And Isaiah wrote, “Here Am I Lord, Send Me.”

Jesus is Lord.

Faith in Jesus Christ is not so easy as some might think because faith is about God and not about us, and the vast majority of us think more of ‘me.’ ‘Me’ has absolutely nothing to do with my relationship ‘in Christ.’ This relationship has everything to do with God and I am the but object of His grace. Writing about ‘freedom in Christ’ is the most misunderstood aspect of being a Believer, a Follower of Jesus Christ; the reason being that far too many somehow think that ‘freedom’ provides life without consequences.

Fearful Expectation of Judgment

Poor theology, citing ‘out of context’ Scriptures also provides just as weak Bible studies resulting in catastrophic lifestyles filled with unrepentant sin. Those who teach and provide listeners with false foundations are as guilty as their students who live defeated lives of immorality. “For if we deliberately keep on sinning after receiving the knowledge of the truth, no further sacrifice for sins is left for us, 27 but only a certain fearful expectation of judgment and a fury of fire that will consume God’s enemies. 28 Someone who rejected the law of Moses was put to death without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. 29 How much greater punishment do you think that person deserves who has contempt for the Son of God, and profanes the blood of the covenant that made him holy, and insults the Spirit of grace? 30 For we know the one who said, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay,” and again, “The Lord will judge his people.” 31 It is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” Hebrews 10:26-31 NET2.

There are those surrounding us who have been introduced to biblical truth and have become members of a local church and while claiming to be ‘Christian’ continue to sin. The Hebrew writer says in verse 29 this is ‘contempt for the Son do God, and profanes the blood of the covenant that made him holy, and insults the Spirit of grace.’ Those who are participating in the local church without faith will find that ‘it is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God.’

What we know as Believers is that it is not that we must endure difficulty with perseverance, but rather we do persevere when hard times come because of faith in the One who redeemed our souls in death and conquered the same in His resurrection. Because He endured we, too, endure because of His grace and indwelling presence. Our Foundation is sure, the Solid Rock. This construction is not about me or about you. This construct is solely about Jesus Christ for He has liberated me, liberated you, liberated us from the bonds of sin which enables one to follow Him.

Freedom in Exile

Being free from the bonds of sin is to be an exile in community because you are following Christ. You are no longer captive to the world, but you are an exile in it awaiting the coming of Christ. We are in voluntary self-exile because of the choice to obey Christ every day. This is a very difficult thing for Believers to accomplish, to be separated from the activities of unbelievers. Paul instructs the church in Corinth to come out from among those who are not Followers of the Christ “And what agreement does Christ have with Beliar? Or what does a believer share in common with an unbeliever? 16 And what mutual agreement does the temple of God have with idols? For we are the temple of the living God, just as God said, “I will live in them and will walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.” 17 Therefore “come out from their midst, and be separate,” says the Lord, “and touch no unclean thing, and I will welcome you, 18 and I will be a father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters,” says the All-Powerful Lord.” 2 Corinthians 6:15-18.

Believers Have an Advantage

How are we to know if one is not of Christ? Paul gives us an insight to this, “So then from now on we acknowledge no one from an outward human point of view. Even though we have known Christ from such a human point of view, now we do not know him in that way any longer. So then, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; what is old has passed away—look, what is new has come!” We view everyone from a spiritual mindset of righteousness and not from the perspective of godless worldliness. Believers have an advantage because we stand on the Solid Rock who provides a prominent viewpoint. For this reason those who do not know Christ think they are able to say that Christians are ‘self-righteous’ and this is simply incorrect.

No Reason to Listen to Godlessness.

Interestingly enough those who are lost and without Christ and without spiritual understanding will often command those of faith ‘do not judge me.’ However, in their ignorance of spiritual things they bring judgment upon God’s people, but Paul instructs us, “Therefore, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, 7 rooted and built up in him and firm in your faith just as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. 8 Be careful not to allow anyone to captivate you through an empty, deceitful philosophy that is according to human traditions and the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.” and later in verse 16 not to allow these to judge us which is followed in verse 20 with this question, “If you have died with Christ to the elemental spirits of the world, why do you submit to them as though you lived in the world?” There is no reason to listen to their words for in Colossians 3:1-3 the Apostle continues with, “Therefore, if you have been raised with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Keep thinking about things above, not things on the earth, 3 for you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God.”

We are exiled because of faithful obedience to the Lord. Jesus is Lord.

Oftentimes Christians will want to or will marry unbelievers and ask, “Is this okay?” Throughout the OT are found Scriptures which forbid Israelites to marry foreigners, but some NT Believers disavow the OT. However, The Old Testament is not negated in the New. Although the following verse is not directly addressing marriage, Paul is speaking to relationships between Believers and unbelievers.

“Do not become partners with those who do not believe, for what partnership is there between righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship does light have with darkness? 15 And what agreement does Christ have with Beliar? Or what does a believer share in common with an unbeliever? 16 And what mutual agreement does the temple of God have with idols? For we are the temple of the living God, just as God said, “I will live in them and will walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.” 17 Therefore “come out from their midst, and be separate,” says the Lord, “and touch no unclean thing, and I will welcome you, 18 and I will be a father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters,” says the All-Powerful Lord.” 2 Corinthians 6:14-18 NET2.

This word from the Apostle, inspired of the Holy Spirit is quite clear, is it not? He asks, “What fellowship does light have with darkness?” Every Believer knows the answer, “None.” For anyone wanting to marry an unbeliever, my suggestion is to ask the Lord because you may not like my answer.

Jesus is Lord.

Someone said, “We often speak of how people cannot comprehend the wonder of grace unless they grasp the badness of sin. And that is true. But it is equally true that people cannot grasp the badness of sin until they grasp the goodness of the life that sin corrupts.” Because Believers were once in darkness Paul writes, “Let nobody deceive you with empty words, for because of these things God’s wrath comes on the sons of disobedience. 7 Therefore do not be sharers with them, 8 for you were at one-time darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live like children of light— 9 for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness, and truth— 10 trying to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. 11 Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.” Ephesians 5:6-11 NET2. We must not hesitate to expose the sin that surrounds us, the evil at work in our world for sometimes people we know are involved. Paul encouraged the church in Corinth, “Stay alert, stand firm in the faith, show courage, be strong. 14 Everything you do should be done in love.” 1 Corinthians 16:13. Our presence must be accomplished within the bounds of God’s love living in us. We must never do anything for our purposes.

Spiritual Gifts

Not everyone understands their call from God to accomplish His work. Every Believer is not only called to accomplish the work of God but is also equipped by the Holy Spirit to do so. Spiritual gifts, the Gifts of the Holy Spirit, is that equipment duly supplied and we must know our gift and how to use it as found in Romans 12. The gifts mentioned there are permanently attached to every Believer. In 1 Corinthians 12 is another list of spiritual gifts which are given by the Holy Spirit as He chooses, but these are given for certain things that God wants to be accomplished for His purpose and glory for a moment in time. In Ephesians 4 there is another shortlist, but these are what some refer to as ‘vocational’ gifts and what we might call ‘life-calling’ gifts. These seem to be for a long period of time, perhaps for a lifetime. At any rate, every Believer should discover the Spiritual Gift God has appropriated for them in order to accomplish God’s task for Him.

God’s Armor

We are in a very serious spiritual battle on a daily basis which constitutes a life-long war against evil. These are not battles against sin and the war is not about sin, but these are conflicts concerning evil which comes from Satan, the Tempter. Ultimately the war is against him. Make no mistake, this is real.

Those who understand also know that there are people who will stand against anyone who is known to speak against evil and addresses those who are evil. Those who speak against us may be Believers themselves but do not understand the conflict. For this reason, we are to be prepared for the conflict. Paul writes, “10 Finally, be strengthened in the Lord and in the strength of his power. 11 Clothe yourselves with the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world rulers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens. 13 For this reason, take up the full armor of God so that you may be able to stand your ground on the evil day, and having done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm, therefore, by fastening the belt of truth around your waist, by putting on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 by fitting your feet with the preparation that comes from the good news of peace, 16 and in all of this, by taking up the shield of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit (which is the word of God). 18 With every prayer and petition, pray at all times in the Spirit, and to this end be alert, with all perseverance and petitions for all the saints.” Ephesians 6:10-18.

Pray for the Saints

There is no reason to explain the articles of God’s armor because the purpose is briefly explained. But we must know that this is a spiritual conflict against “the world rulers of darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens.” Some do not believe these forces are real and some do not seem to understand that we who speak against evil are not the bad guys and therefore speak against us and call us ‘Pharisees’ because we sometimes name those who are evil. But this is not the point for Paul instructs us to pray for fellow saints. We are to pray for their protection and power for the conflict at hand.

Jesus is Lord.