Author: West Oaks Fellowship

INDEPENDENCE

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

If you are a true Texan, then this word, for many of us older individuals, seems to be imbedded deeply within our minds and hearts. Yes, that seems true for many of us who grew up in our great state, being exposed to, and / or studying the many intriguing aspects of Texas history.

This weekend, the United States Of America, the greatest nation in the entire world, will celebrate our “Declaration of Independence.” It’s been 249 years since that came forth after ??? months of hard work and deliberation. While the actual decision to declare independence was made by the Continental Congress on July 2, 1776, the actual document explaining the reasons for this world changing decision was finalized and adopted on July 4th after Thomas Jefferson worked on the actual writing of the document in isolation from June 11 until June 28. Then, the official signing of the document by most of the colonies’ delegates occurred on August 2, 1776. 

The word “INDEPENDENCE” as commonly used, is defined as, “the state or condition of being independent,” which in normal conversational English use refers to being self-reliant, not needing support, and / or not under the control of others. The USA basically abandoned itself to its own destiny with the support or control of any other empire, nation, or government (constitutional monarchy and parliament, which was made up of The House of Lords and the House of Commons or elected representatives).

It is certainly of great significance and importance that all citizens of the USA understand our independence as a nation and the independence that exists, or should exist, within our society! As an example, one can be an independent voter, not committed to the political platform of any party. An independent business is not owned or controlled by any other company. Personally, being independent implies that one has the life skills necessary to make one’s own decisions, pursue one’s own goals, and provide for one’s own needs. (On a personal note, I’ve being doing this since a short time after I graduated from high school at age 17 and started living on my own when my parents moved to San Antonio and I stayed behind in Austin … and then as you all know, they died a short time later when I was 18, on December 26, 1972 in the Woodlawn Baptist / Crocket High School Bus Accident.)

“INDEPENDENCE” may be applied spiritually as well. Biblically speaking, we as faithful followers of Jesus Christ, are to live independent, absolutely free from all forms of man-made religion, which loves to define righteousness based upon its own tenants! All these are simply humanity’s attempt to either reach or appease a god, based upon a limited understanding of truth (which is usually not absolute) and experiential wisdom, as well as some elements of ancient or current reasoning / philosophy.

As Christ’s children, ‘INDEPENDENCE” focusses in on the blessings of liberty and the freedoms we all have the opportunity to enjoy! While the significance of INDEPENDENCE DAY in America, which was obtained through much toil, suffering, and sacrifice, and is undoubtedly worthy of our celebration, yet nothing can compare to the independence afforded us in Christ Jesus alone. We are freed from sin, free to live independent of its weighty bondage and its ever-invading curse through faith / belief in Jesus Christ! This 100% free gift to us was actually provided through much toil, suffering, and sacrifice!

For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.

Galatians 5:13

The word in this biblical text rendered “freedom” is also the Greek word for “liberty,” and the phraseology is speaking directly to the concept of independence from slavery. In the Greek culture, a slave could not provide money to be manumitted (freed). Only the master could pay the price to a god by bringing it into a pagan temple’s treasury while in the presence of the slave. Then a document was immediately prepared for the former slave with the words, “for freedom.”

It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.

Galatians 5:1

At that point, no one could ever enslave him / her again, the former slave was now the property of the god and now completely independent. In Galatians 5:1, in the Greek text, the combination of the noun with the verb denotes / stresses the completeness of an act, which is in the aorist tense, indicating both its momentary and comprehensive action! Thus it was done / accomplished once for all time. In addition, the concept of not ever becoming subject to another form of bondage is clearly communicated. Christ made us independent of as well as fully liberated from, that to which we were born and subject to! Therefore in Christ Jesus, I am also now free from all and any constraining forces . . . independent and liberated to follow Him, know Him, obey Him, and serve Him!

However, all independence, liberty, and freedom comes with personal responsibility, whether that’s in relationship to our nation as its citizens, or to our Lord as citizens of His Kingdom. What I’ve learned, through many years of believing and serving Christ, is that I will gladly trade my independence for dependence upon my Lord, and give up my liberty / freedom to have the humble, yet honored position of being His bondservant / slave, always simply being hopeful of being available and well used for His glory!

How about you? Have you selfishly set limits on what you do for Christ Jesus? Are you in bondage to your own will or someone else’s? While not running from personal responsibilities in our society / culture, are you in bondage to those things of our world, or are you actually available for the work and ministry of His Kingdom while still in the world but not of it? NOW BEFORE YOU ANSWER … PLEASE STUDY JOHN 17:13-21

His & Yours always, because of GRACE (God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense)

Pastor Frank

40

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

How many of you remember turning 40? Yes, I know many of you haven’t reached that milestone in life yet, but many of us are way past that – like me! I clearly remember certain things about that event, two of which I still remember distinctly. First, my life was most likely at least half over, and I was asking the question, “What have I accomplished … how many lives had been positively spiritually impacted by the ministry our Lord had entrusted to my care? Second, West Oaks Fellowship, which was then called Grace Church (Grace Ministries & Fellowship), was meeting in the facility we previously owned on Schiller Road (purchased from the Missouri Synod Lutheran Diocese). At that point in our history, we were primarily a white congregation (Brother Leroy, an exception) and had not yet embraced our current purpose of being a diversified church made of many cultures and heritages, that actually looks (ethnically speaking) like our neighborhood and our Lord’s heaven.

On June 22, 2025, our church will celebrate her 40th Anniversary, preceded by our formerly annual private anniversary picnic celebration (lots of fun for everyone from the youngest to the oldest) at Cinco Ranch Water Park on Thursday evening, June 19th, from 6-9 pm.

I sincerely hope you will make whatever arrangements are necessary so you and yours can fully participate in both of these special occasions / events!

40 is a pretty significant number in the Scriptures. This number appears over 150 times in both the New and Old Testament. You may recall some of its prominent uses … It rained for 40 days and 40 nights in the days of the flood, Christ Jesus was in the wilderness fasting (where He was tempted by Satan) for 40 days and 40 nights. Moses, after going up Mt. Sinai, received the 10 Commandments during a 40 day and 40-night timeframe. Israel’s designated spies searched the promised land for 40 days, Goliath taunted Israel for 40 days, God gave Nineveh 40 days to repent, and Christ ascended to heaven 40 days after His resurrection. In addition, the nation of Israel wandered 40 years in the wilderness, Eli, Deborah, and Gideon judged for 40 years, then King Saul, King David, King Solomon, and King Joash all reigned over the nation for 40 years. In the Bible, 40 years is also designated as the period of one generation.

The number 40, biblically speaking, is in many significant events, some trial and testing, some transformation – like Moses’ encounter with the burning bush or receiving God’s direct commandments for the governing of His people. Even deliverance and protection are demonstrated as Noah and his family experienced within the sanctuary of the God-designed ark, while the earth was experiencing great upheavals!

Thus He blotted out every living thing that was upon the face of the land, from man to animals to creeping things and to birds of the sky, and they were blotted out from the earth; and only Noah was left, together with those that were with him in the ark.

 — Genesis 7:23

My 40-year tenure as the founding, and now Lead Pastor / Elder at WOF, has been filled with much testing, many trials, at times great tiring / exhausting difficulties, along with enumerable blessings, delightful victories, spiritual liberations, and immeasurable redemptive triumphs! For all, not just the good, I am forever, deeply grateful, and honored for the privilege of serving my Lord, Jesus Christ, and each of you as His people. These are truly my continuous thoughts …

I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always offering prayer with joy in my every prayer for you all, in view of your participation in the gospel from the first day until now. For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus. For it is only right for me to feel this way about you all, because I have  you in my heart, since both in my imprisonment (this hasn’t happened to me yet, even though I was prepared for it during COVID) and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, you all are partakers of grace with me.  

— Philippians 1:3-8

During this past 40 years, I only considered resigning and just walking away once. Then, we were at our Schiller Road location (just almost due south of our current facility). I was basically worn out and needed some ministerial / pastoral help to assist me with the routine task of teaching, preaching and leading the body. I had previously helped a pastor friend of mine recover form a downfall in his ministry and assisted in restoring his family. He was a gifted teacher, as well as an accomplished musician, and I desired to bring him in as a part time associate to help out. (Back then we met on Sunday AM, PM, Wednesday PM and had gatherings on Friday evenings along with other special events.) One Sunday morning I presented the idea to the church and was actually surprised by the resistance. I decided to move on with the service because I didn’t want to quench or potentially destroy the working of God’s Holy Spirit during that day’s worship or teaching. I, in my heart, was determined to resign at the end of the service. A very good friend of mine, who knew me very well and ran our sound, spiritually discerned exactly what was about to happen, and warned a couple of our faithful leaders what was about to occur. Then, as the service was ending, those leaders wanted to stop everything and readdress the issue … then, amazingly things moved in a completely different direction – without anyone else being informed of my intention in that moment! I believe the Lord moved powerfully to rescued me from myself!

There is a way which seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.

— Proverbs 14:12

Just as you do not know the path of the wind and how bones are formed in the womb of the pregnant woman, so you do not know the activity of God who makes all things.

— Ecclesiastes 11:5

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My  thoughts than your thoughts.”

— Isaiah 55:8-9

Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways!

— Romans 11:33

I have lost a lot of treasured friends (some in death, through relocation, and others just changing) over the past 40 years, and experienced many people leaving WOF simply because of me. I have also been trampled upon by individuals whom I highly respected as godly individuals and would have never believed they could / would act in such a manner. Yes, those were certainly tremendously painful, plunging deep in my heart and soul. Nonetheless, I’ve gained many, high-quality, valuable, Christ-centered relationships as West Oaks Fellowship continues it mission of “Sharing / Speaking The Truth In Love.” I still firmly and unrelentingly believe, and am fully committed, to the Lord’s calling of transforming lives through truth and love!

And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the  work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ. As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by  the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming; but speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ, from whom the whole body, being fitted and held together by what every joint supplies, according to the proper working of each individual part, causes the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love.

— Ephesians 4:11-16

As I grow older, almost 71 now, I fully recognize that my age at some point may hinder my ability to be an effective leader and teacher of God’s Word / Truth. When that time arrives, while it will be very difficult for me, I will remove myself for the benefit of the ministry. However, until that time comes, please continue steadfast in your prayers for WOF, Pastor Jacob — as he accepts more and more responsibility for the ministry, for my bride, Brenda, as she faithfully supports me and all of our on-going ministries, and me … to be strong in mind and body, and an effective communicator of our Lord’s Truth and trainer of God’s people.

Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith.

— Galatians 6:9-10

This undershepherd of Jesus Christ, our Great Shepherd, truly does love the sheep that He has entrusted to my care, and I am both privileged and grateful for the opportunity to serve each of you and Christ’s little New Testament Church that meets at West Oaks Fellowship.

Grace, mercy and peace will be with us, from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love.

— 2 John 3

Let’s allow year 40 to be a great one, all for His glory!

Little children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth.

— 1 John 3:18-19

His & Yours always, because of GRACE (God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense)

Pastor Frank 

DARKNESS -V- LIGHT

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

Jesus Christ, while visiting our world, made a very revealing and thought- provoking statement in Matthew 6:23

“But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light that is in you is darkness, how great is the darkness!”

Undoubtedly, at an initial reading of this passage, one must interpret it within the context of Christ’s message to a Jewish/ Hebrew audience, dealing with the worldly aspects of materialism and greed, both being selfishly indulgent. The “eye” therefore, would have been fully understood by them as the spiritual aspect of an individual’s heart / mind. Therefore, if the “eye is bad” (or perhaps according to the Greek work, “evil”) . . . then the whole person is “full of darkness!” Then, if the light that’s provided to the body by the bad (evil) eye is, in reality, darkness, then, “how great” is that “darkness” that permeates one’s life?

Human minds and hearts become encumbered by darkness, which actually is a form of blindness, since no light can enter a bad or evil eye!  Christ’s teachings in Luke 11:33-36 adds some perspective and understanding for us as well.

“No one, after lighting a lamp, puts it away in a cellar nor under a basket, but on the lampstand, so that those who enter may see the light. The eye is the lamp of your body; when your eye is clear, your whole body also is full of light; but when it is bad, your body also is full of darkness. Then watch out that the light in you is not darkness. If therefore your whole body is full of light, with no dark part in it, it will be wholly illumined, as when the lamp illumines you with its rays.”

The eye is like a window which, when clear, allows light to shine through, but, when bad / evil, it prevents light from entering just as Jesus stated so clearly in  John 3:19-21,

“This is the judgment, that the Light has come into the world, and men loved the darkness rather than the Light, for their deeds were evil. For everyone who does evil hates the Light, and does not come to the Light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But he who practices the truth comes to the Light, so that his deeds may be manifested as having been wrought in God.”

Speaking theologically about Christ Jesus as “THE LIGHT”. . . The Apostle John wrote, “In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men. The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.” – John 1:4-5

It seems that the darkness of the light that was within humanity … self-deception / spiritual blindness . . . blocked out the true light, so there was no way of recognizing the “TRUE LIGHT,” because what was thought of as light was in essence great darkness! That’s pretty sobering, but provides clear revelation to the issue of Darkness -v- Light — a spiritual barometer for the continued human condition of evil due to lightlessness. Nonetheless, there is a pathway out of darkness into the true light, where believers become children of the Light!

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.” -John 8:12

“While you have the Light, believe in the Light, so that you may become sons (Greek word – children., being those born) of Light.”

John 12:36a

“I have come as Light into the world, so that everyone who believes in Me will not remain in darkness.”

John 12:46

So, here’s the real question for the faithful followers of Jesus Christ: “How much light does it take to dispel the darkness?” Have you ever wondered why our Lord in Matthew 5:14-15 made this declaration? “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.” 

And then, there is this imperative (according the NT Greek text) command, from Matthew 5:16, which also answers the “why” — “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.”

While we all glory in the promises, provisions, and positions granted to us as believers according to 1 Peter 2:9-10, perhaps we forget or neglect His purposeful calling! “But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR God’s OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;  for you once were NOT A PEOPLE, but now you are THE PEOPLE OF GOD; you had NOT RECEIVED MERCY, but now you have RECEIVED MERCY.”

Simply pray about the church’s (all of us as individuals and collectively as a group) appropriate, obedient response or action – considering the darkness of our world.  

His & Yours, because of GRACE (God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense)

– PF

RIGHTEOUS LIVING -V- LEGALISM

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

If one knows me at all, it’s pretty clear that I’m anti-legalism and that I uphold the concepts of GRACE, as well as living by FAITH, as the true essentials for abundant, successful Christian living.

I’ve held this theological position since I was a very young man in ministry, due to my study of scriptures, godly men that I considered my mentors, and my experiences within the framework of western religion / churchanity, as well as with genuine Christ followers.

“I do not nullify the grace of God, for if righteousness comes through the Law, then Christ died needlessly.”

Galatians 2:21

For if a law had been given which was able to impart life, then righteousness would indeed have been based on law. But the Scripture has shut up everyone under sin, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe.

Galatians 3:21-22

Here’s why I stand so decisively and resolute:

  1. Legalism promotes unbiblical standards, leading individuals to self-ordained, self-recognized convictions, self-authorized permission, as well as personal mandates that may even be imposed on others!
  2. Legalism is performance based, promoting and even authorizing self-righteous attitudes and the ungodly, extremely biased judgment of others!
  3. Legalism creates, and ultimately embraces division!
  4. Legalism downgrades and actually works to devalue Jesus Christ and His preeminence, His righteousness, His victory over sin / death, and His sufficiency for all genuine believers!

These are matters which have, to be sure, the appearance of wisdom in self-made religion and self-abasement and severe treatment of the body, but are of no value against fleshly indulgence.

Colossians 2:23

As our current teaching series, “Complete In Jesus Christ” (Sunday AM and Wednesday PM), is so plainly revealing . . . legalism is a hazardous and treacherous system as the Lord Himself warned in Mark 7:9.

He was also saying to them, “You are experts at setting aside the commandment of God in order to keep your tradition.”

Any type of religious legalism, which is appealing to humanity’s fleshly nature, can be quite attractive. However, in it the Lord’s sheep are hurt (spiritually, mentally and emotionally damaged) and manipulated, as the redeeming, life-giving, good news of Christ’s Gospel is veiled, Jesus Christ is marginalized, and human efforts, along with the philosophies of our world with practices birthed in paganism, become exalted

See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Christ. For in Him all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form, and in Him you have been made complete, and He is the head over all rule and authority; and in Him you were also circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, in the removal of the body of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ; having been buried with Him in baptism, in which you were also raised up with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead. When you were dead in your transgressions and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He made you alive together with Him, having forgiven us all our transgressions, having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against us, which was hostile to us; and He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross. When He had disarmed the rulers and authorities, He made a public display of them, having triumphed over them through Him.

Colossians 2:8-15

Perhaps, even right now, as you read this article, please stop for a moment, bow before our gracious and glorious Lord, join my life pursuit, making the TRUTH of the following passage a life-long purpose / intent, which you can mentally, emotionally, and spiritually firmly cling to forever! 

“For if I rebuild what I have once destroyed, I prove myself to be a transgressor. “For through the Law I died to the Law, so that I might live to God. “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the  flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.  “I do not nullify the grace of God,  for if righteousness comes through the Law, then Christ died needlessly.”

Galatians 2:18-21

How else then shall we live?

His & Yours, Because of GRACE (God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense)

PF

MERITOCRACY

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

It seems that recently this word is being tossed around by the western media, politicians, and government entities in our nation. Initially, one must ask, is this a biblical concept, and then attempt to understand its advantages and / or disadvantages in various applications.

At the outset of this discussion, one must fully recognize that within the framework of authentic Biblical Christianity, the forgiveness of one’s sins and the gift of salvation is not, cannot, and will never be based upon or granted to an individual as a result of human merit! (See Romans 5:8, Ephesian 2:8-9) If humans could obtain a right standing before God through meritocracy, God’s gift, the sacrifice and atoning death of Jesus Christ, would have never taken place or have been required for the redemption of humanity!  

Way too many people assume that how they live their lives will make them acceptable or not acceptable to God. That’s a common lie from world religions and the enemies of Biblical Christianity! Sadly, most humans, when confronted on how they will fare when they die and meet God, say something like, “Well, I think I’ll be all right, I’ve never done anything really wrong, never really harmed anyone, and I am better than most.”

TRAGIC!

Romans 6:23 speaks distinctly, 

“For the wages of sin is death, but  the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

A gift doesn’t come through a meritocratic system. It is no gift at all if it is somehow earned! Nonetheless, there are meritocracy concepts revealed in the scriptures – some good and some not so pleasant.

Nonbelievers are all judged according to their works / deeds. (See Romans 2:5-6, Revelation 20:11-15) This is a perfect meritocratic system. Sorrowfully, no one did enough … therefore, none are found to be worthy, gaining or being awarded the gift of eternal life, the forgiveness of sin, and redemption, which is only granted to those who accept the meritocratic life and death of Jesus Christ as the means / process of their eternal redemption / salvation.

For a believer in Christ Jesus, there is also a meritocratic system! However, this one provides rewards based upon what is accomplished while alive in Christ Jesus on the earth (See 1 Corinthians 3:10-13, 4:5, 2 Timothy 4:8), rather than a system of properly earned punishment / judgement (See Romans 3:23). The parable of the “Talents” also presents a meritocracy in which the 3 servants are participating and dealt with according to their deeds.

Now when it comes to human governmental systems, meritocracy can be used as a viable instrument for good and blessing or for corruption. Simply put, meritocracy rewards hard-work and the continued development and use of skills / abilities. In a perfect setting, those who are willing to use their skills and work are rewarded based on their accomplishments or lack thereof, similar to that of the 3 servants in the Parable of the Talents. In this system, language, social class, gender, wealth, skin color, nationality, culture, DEI quotas / concepts, etc. would have no bearing at all; however, education, training, experience, and on-going productivity would potentially provide greater opportunity, advancement, and reward based upon performance and achievement. In other words, promotions are based upon more than showing up, who one knows / personal connections, favoritism, one’s maneuvering within a company’s system, or even the number of years on the job / tenure.

Again, in an ideal system, which doesn’t exist due to human sin nature, compensation is based on pay-performance models, and career advancement / opportunities are based upon their potential, merit, etc., regardless of an individual’s background.

One of the potential downfalls of this system is if everyone is required to perform or produce equally without regard to their own actual abilities. In the Parable of the Talents, the 2 servants did not produce equally, nor were they rewarded equally, but instead, in accordance with their accomplishments.

In government, like that of the United States, this system is seldom used in an equitable fashion and actually becomes inefficient and defective. Seldom are individuals promoted or appointed to positions based on merit. Much different than that found in the scriptures! However, this may be changing a little in the USA with local, state and even national government organizations.

A Silicon Valley start-up company once used a skill-based screening process to identify the highest-performing talent. The imperial bureaucracy of China has used competitive examinations within the communist party to appoint government officers and officials. The British East India Company used competitive examinations to both hire and promote its workers. Needless to say, this type of management results in hard-work, diligence, and continued stewardship of both personnel and resources.

In all labor there is profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.                         

Proverbs 14:23

The Lord expects all His people to actively use their gifts, skills, talents, abilities, and opportunities in this life wisely, for His glory, and for the provisions, needs, and desires of one’s life in this world. However, believers should refuse the trap of trusting in their own abilities and riches (See Proverbs 11:28). In addition, we are called to live without envy and / or greed (See Psalm 37:7).

It’s impossible to identify whether meritocracy is, on the whole, good or full of corruption, because it can be used either way, depending on the moral and ethical character of those managing the system. If incorporated by God Himself, perfect – left to humanity, who knows! Is meritocracy at odds with a Christian worldview and the foundation we rest and build upon from the scriptures? No, but it can be heartless, cold, and lack empathy as an exclusionary, graceless, merciless system … none of which are things which we, as the children and heirs of Christ, are called to exemplify.    

THINK ABOUT IT!

His & Yours, because of G R A C E (God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense) 

Pastor Frank

APOSTLE PAUL

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve the things that are excellent, in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ; having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.

Philippians 1:9-11

In this biblical text, the Apostle Paul is praying for those in the church of Philippi that: 

1. Their “love may abound” – be / become superfluous, overflowing in quantity and quality! The Apostle Paul puts it this way in 1 Thessalonians 3:12, “May the Lord cause you to increase and abound in love for one another, and for all people.” The Apostle Peter writes in 1 Peter 1:22-23, “Since you have in obedience to the truth purified your souls for a sincere love of the brethren, fervently love one another from the heart, for you have been born again not of seed which is perishable but imperishable, that is, through the living and enduring word of God.” 

2. They may abound in “real knowledge” – this idea is not seeking to know, but having exact or full knowledge. That’s the very same concept that Peter uses in 2 Peter 1:3 when he states that the Lord has “given us everything pertaining to life and godliness” through the “true knowledge” of Jesus Christ who called each one of us “by His glory and excellence.”   

3. They may abound in “all discernment” – this word could also be properly translated judgement or the idea of perception. In the sense of practical living reality, it deals with the power that lies in the ability of moral and ethical discrimination / insight. For believers, this comes from within, through the workings of God’s Holy Spirit in conjunction with the Truth / God’s Word. Hebrews 5:14 clearly lays it out, “But solid food is for the mature, who because of practice have their senses trained to discern good and evil.”

4. They may “approve the things that are excellent” – allowing, testing, and fully embracing those things which are essential for one’s life of faith in Jesus Christ. An excellent reminder comes from the Apostle John, in 1 John 4:1-4, “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God; and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God; this is the spirit of the antichrist, of which you have heard that it is coming, and now it is already in the world. You are from God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world.” 

5. They will be “sincere” – genuine, pure, and tested, like good fruit.  This is a quality possessed by God, but also comes to fruition in a faithful believer as godly integrity and honesty! (In other words, uncorrupted.)  

6. They will be “blameless” – without fault or wrongdoing. The Apostle Paul, while defending his faith before Governor Felix, stated in Acts 24:16, “I also do my best to maintain always a blameless (no fault) conscience both before God and before men.” 1 Corinthians 10:31-32 serves us as a great reminder / initiator, “Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Give no offense either to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God.” 

7. All of the above “until the day of Christ!” – as we patiently, but with great anticipation, await the moment of our snatching away (being caught up together with Him – 1 Thessalonians 4:17 aka “the rapture”) as His bride (the glorified church)!  

Brothers and sisters, fellow servants of Jesus Christ, I said these things to simply say this: The above is my dream, my hope, my vison, and my prayer, with many tears and much joy as well, for each of you as an essential, functioning part / member (1 Corinthians 12:14-27) of Christ’s Church / Body that gathers as West Oaks Fellowship. 

His & Yours, because of G R A C E (God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense) 

Pastor Frank

A CHALLENGE FROM PASTOR FRANK

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

On Tuesday evening we gathered as believers in preparation for the year 2025, reaffirming our commitment to Christ Jesus by participating together in Communion (The Lord’s Supper).

Before the partaking of Communion, the Lord encouraged me to take the opportunity that was available and share a few things that He was stirring my heart with. For those of you that attended the New Years Eve service Tuesday evening, this is simply a reminder of the challenges I shared. For those that weren’t able to make it, here are a few things “the Church” (at large) and our local New Testament Church body, aka West Oaks Fellowship, needs to focus in on immediately, as we say goodbye to 2024 and shift our focus to what lies ahead in 2025 and beyond!

Believers are called to live a life of spiritual awareness (alertness),  spiritual fulfillment, and faith because we are made alive (have life, are now living) in and through our Lord and Christ Jesus! As the Lord’s people, we have an open (standing) invitation to live moment by moment, fully embracing these concepts as essentials for successful and productive Christian living.

However, the challenge started with a reminder that our God / Lord is the same yesterday, today, and forever from Hebrews 13:8 and Psalm 102:25-28. Therefore, no matter whatever is going on in our lives and / or in our world. . . in good days of celebrating and rejoicing, or difficult ones . . . we must rest in the confident assurance of our Lord’s faithfulness with all our hope fixed solely on HIM! We serve the same Lord, who remains the same in every one of our situations … suffering or in prosperity, strong or weak, meek or bold, doubting or fearless, sad or in joyful celebration!

YOUR LORD IS NOT CHANGING — even though you will be, and according to James 1:17 there is no variation or “shifting shadow” in the framework of His character / nature!

CHALLENGE #1 – Be SPIRITUALLY ALERT (aware) IN 2025!

1 Peter 5:8 reminds every one of Christ’s genuine followers to be of “sober spirit” and to be “on the alert” (spiritually aware). Know this, spiritual awareness is essential according to 1 Corinthians 16:13; believers are not asked, but told / commanded to “be alert” and “stand firm” – acting like grown-ups instead of babies!

CHALLENGE #2 – Be SPIRITUALLY FULFILLED IN 2025!

John 10:10 confirms that Jesus Christ came so that we might have “life” and have life “abundantly!” Spiritual fulfillment is a vital aspect because, according to 1 Corinthians 3:20, our Lord is able to work in and through us, as believers, far more “abundantly” than we even can “ask” or “think!”

CHALLENGE #3 – LIVE BY FAITH IN 2025!

In Galatians 2:20, New Testament Christians are challenged to this perspective and calling. This is not about religious participation, but a responsive life lived in conjunction with Christ’s purposes and goals for each individual believer. Death – the crucifixion of one’s own flesh – opens the door to this exhilarating life of faith! One must forever stop living by sight, or human perspective, and according to 2 Corinthians 5:7, walk by faith in Christ Jesus, His Word, and the Holy Spirit, because as stated in Romans 1:7 and Habakkuk 2:4, the just or “the righteous live by faith!”

Will you accept this challenge? If so, it will positively change you, making you more into the image of Jesus Christ, which will dynamically change our church, making us a stronger and more cohesive body, which will change our community / society, then hopefully our country and our world!

May our hearts unite with many, many generations of faithful brothers and sisters in Christ who have relentlessly decided to follow Jesus … “no turning back, no turning back” … the world behind me, the cross before me, no turning back, no turning back!”

His & Yours, because of GRACE

(God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense)

-PF

        

WHY ADVENT?

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

I grew up in a committed Christian home and a bible teaching denominational church where, while Christmas was celebrated wholeheartedly, the concept of ADVENT was never mentioned or considered. (That was also true of other important celebrations like Pentecost and Reformation Day!). These were simply not incorporated into our framework of ministry and were generally left to the more orthodox, ecumenical and liturgical styled churches. After Thanksgiving, the lights came out, every strand checked, and every bad bulb was replaced (our house lights were 100% red). After the lights were up – usually by midday Friday – a tree would be purchased (absolutely nothing fake allowed), then laboriously fully decorated (seemed I always dropped a highly breakable ornament or two). Nonetheless, we weren’t finished until my 1954 Lionel Electric Train & Track set was completely up and running, with track laid out around and beneath the Christmas Tree. Upon completion my dad would then sit at his organ and play a Christmas carol or two and sing with my mom. Then, we were ready for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

However, as I grew in my understanding of Church history and started abandoning those things from my denominational heritage that weren’t founded on biblical / scriptural foundations, I continually discovered significant elements of genuine Christianity that should have the recognition of all believers and should not have been so easily or readily discarded just because styles of worship were different or due to various (generally numerous) doctrinal distinctions. While many of those doctrinal issues were certainly worthy of theological battles, we’ve all heard about throwing out the baby with the baby’s bath water!

At West Oaks Fellowship, we have attempted to recover, or reinstitute, some of the most meaningful, biblically based, historical celebrations such as ADVENT (coming or arrival), in which genuine believers can find spiritual value and truly rejoice!

As an example, one might consider the question, “Why do we meet on Sunday mornings?” On Sundays (for the early Jewish believers in Jesus Christ it was after the sun went down on the Sabbath day, or what we call Saturday afternoon / evening) the first / early Christians gathered to celebrate Christ’s victorious resurrection! Therefore, since the inception of Christ’s Church, believers have continually met on the day after the Sabbath (Saturday), being Sunday, to rejoice in the conquering power of Christ Jesus over sin and death! In reality, that’s exactly what we are doing every Sunday morning when we gather for spiritual enrichment and fellowship as His church! Obviously, that magnificent, unsurpassed event would have / could have never happened without His first ADVENT (coming)!

Consequently, shouldn’t we also celebrate Christ’s incarnation (our Lord’s embodiment as a human being . . . John 1:14–

And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth, which in theory, we also do every time we gather in His Holy and highly exalted Name!?

Here are some reasons that ADVENT has become incorporated as a significant aspect of our Christmas worship services (every Sunday In December) at WOF.

The weekly ADVENT themes of Hope, Peace, Joy and Love are all gifts made available to us (as genuine believers) in and through Christ Jesus, along with the indwelling presence and power of God’s Holy Spirit. Each weekly biblical theme works powerfully within, helping us to fully appreciate and properly appropriate these essential and precious elements of a meaningful Christian life – only permanently acquired in / through faith in Jesus Christ!

By participating (fully engaging) in our ADVENT services, one can emotionally, mentally, and spiritually escape / separate from the paganism and materialism that infiltrates the current American Christmas spirit, allowing a sincere and intentional (direct) focus on the Lord as the single most significant entity of this year’s holiday celebrations!

Advent can serve as a reminder that we are not the center of God’s ultimate plan, even though sometimes we think we are what matters the most! Every week of our ADVENT celebration presents a perfect opportunity to refresh one’s perspective! God has a grand plan that is much larger than any of us can possibly grasp or imagine. In the midst of a cultural holiday that tends to have an emphasis on the sentimentality of enjoyment and pleasure, gift-giving / receiving, we can easily drift to an inappropriate mind-set about the reason(s) for Christmas. So, in the midst of a season that works to distract our central focus, Advent reminds us to pan the camera back out on the big picture, a larger scope of a life lived for God’s purpose(s) and glory!

Biblically speaking, ADVENT brings to mind the fulfillment of Messianic prophecy and of course, promises from the scriptures. Here’s what Jesus said in Luke 24:44 in reference to Himself, “These are My words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things which are written about Me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled.” 

God’s faithfulness is at the very center of ADVENT! God promised and He sent Messiah. This provides confidence and assurance for all of Christ’s followers who are living in the anticipation of His next / second ADVENT!

“And behold, I am coming quickly. Blessed is he who heeds the words of the prophecy of this book.” 

Revelation 22:7

“Therefore be on the alert, for you do not know which day your Lord is coming. But be sure of this, that if the head of the house had known at what time of the night the thief was coming, he would have been on the alert and would not have allowed his house to be broken into. For this reason you also must be ready; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not think He will.”

Matthew 24:42-44

“This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come.”

Matthew 24:14

For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words. 

1 Thessalonians 4:16-18

While I can’t point to a particular scripture that says to “celebrate” or “participate” in an “ADVENT” celebration, I can provide numerous scriptural reasons why, as believers, we should exuberantly rejoice in Christ’s first coming, as well as on the day of His second! Therefore, please come to church at WOF every Sunday in December with a specific purpose in mind concerning the HOPE, PEACE, JOY AND LOVE of ADVENT, and a readiness to find delightful joy in Christ’s first coming!

But when the fullness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, so that He might redeem those who were under the Law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.

Galatians 4:4-5

While I may not get all excited and actually decorate for Christmas the way some of you will, my deepest desire is that you will know Christ Jesus in this Christmas season, and throughout the holidays, as your redeeming MESSIAH – worthy of all praise, glory, and honor that will be properly exalted, and His incarnation will be enthusiastically and gratefully celebrated during ADVENT 2024!

So if you are like me, and did not grow up with the tradition of Advent in your family or church, consider the great benefits this blessing will bring to your walk with the Lord this season by joining fellow believers who have personally experienced great benefits by purposefully preparing during Advent for their Christmas gatherings and celebrations.

May our hearts unite with many, many generations of faithful brothers and sister in Christ who have relentlessly declared, with great anticipation (hope), “O come, O come, Emmanuel!”

His & Yours, because of GRACE (God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense)

– PF

GOVERNMENT (PLUS- VOTING OPPORTUNITY IN THE USA)

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

Biblically speaking, we find several forms of government all primarily emerging or developing from what I would refer to historically as nomadic. While there is much evidence of early monarchies like Melchizedek, King of Salem (Genesis 14:18, Hebrews 7:1-2) and the Pharaohs of Egypt (which mostly followed the principals of heredity) (Genesis, Exodus, Deuteronomy), most humans lived and survived in what I would classify as tribal units with some form of chieftains as their leaders to uphold laws and regulations.

Abram / Abraham is an excellent example, being literally an Arab, which originally referred to a semitic group of people (all descendants of Abraham) who lived in nomadic people groups.

For the Hebrew people, their governments varied significantly during different periods of time throughout their existence / history: (1) the nomadic period, from the Exodus to the entrance into Palestine; (2) the period of transition from nomadic to civil life military / spiritual leaders and judges; (3) the monarchy; (4) the period of subjection to other nations such as the Assyrians, Babylonians, Medio Persians; (5) the period from Ezra to the Greeks; (6) Greek rule; (7) Roman rule; and then most recently, since 1948, (8) a parliamentarian democracy.

God’s purpose for government is multifaceted: (1) regulate a sinful, rebellious society by establishing law and order for a people group; (2) to promote safety, peace, well-being, and justice for the good of individuals and nations (Romans 13:4); (3) for His purposes and glory.

However, just like churches, government is made up of human beings, some bad / evil / corrupt and some good, desiring to lead and govern in a proper and righteous manner. The intent of government, according to Romans 13:4 was never intended for the good or prosperity of those engaged in the governing, but instead for the progress and benefit of the governed . . . “for it is a minister of God to you for good.”

That was the philosophy of the majority of our founding fathers and why politician Daniel Webster, in a speech to the Senate in 1830 said, “It is, Sir, the people’s Constitution, the people’s Government, made for the people, made by the people, and answerable to the people!” And, as you most likely know, President Abraham Lincoln (republican) modified this statement along with one borrowed from Preacher Theodore Parker, in his famous Gettysburg address declaring “that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom — and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”

THAT’S EXACTLY WHY CHRISTIANS SHOULD VOTE! In addition, we should only vote our godly, biblically-based values as believers, if we actually hope for God’s blessing and protection to be upon our nation! If you can’t vote the truth and things of your faith in Christ and the Truth of His Word, then don’t vote.

Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people.

Proverbs 14:34

By the blessing of the upright a city is exalted, but by the mouth of the wicked it is torn down.

Proverbs 11:11

He changes rivers into a wilderness and springs of water into a thirsty ground; A fruitful land into a salt waste, because of the wickedness of those who dwell in it.

Psalm 107: 33-34

While I totally agree, there is no perfect candidate, for president or any other office, nor is there a perfect political party platform (which is why I’m a constitutional independent – not voting for a person, or culture, but instead for a position – actual held belief), we should vote to uphold the concept of, “a nation, under God . . . government of the people, by the people, for the people” in hope and prayer that it “shall not perish from the earth” (while highly unlikely) until CHRIST JESUS IS RULING and REIGNING AS KING!

Then, and only then, each of us and our world will experience a perfect leader who will organize and direct a perfect government!

Just in case you were wondering, what is a perfect government? There’s only one . . . A benevolent, righteous theocracy where the perfect will of the perfect leader is established and upheld 24/7. This removes the unrighteousness of humanity!

And I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse, and He who sat on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and wages war. His eyes are a   flame of fire, and on His head are many diadems; and He has a name written on Him which no one knows except Himself. He is clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God. And the armies which are in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean, were following Him on white horses. From His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the wine press of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty. And on His robe and on His thigh He has a name written, “KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.”

Revelation 19: 11-16

Until then, pray and vote, vote and pray. Come Lord Jesus!

The king’s favor is toward a servant who acts wisely, But his anger is toward him who acts shamefully.

Proverbs 14:35

His & Yours, Because of GRACE (God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense),

-PF

“LAW”

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

Last Friday evening at our Digging Deeper Home Fellowship (4 regular participants were out, 15 present) I posed a question like this:

“If you are working with others to form a new nation and are asked to write the laws for your new country, what laws would you establish?”

The answers were extremely varied, but as you can easily imagine, some ideas were pretty consistent, such as: no murder, no theft, as well as freedom of speech, assembly, and worship. However, some were quite challenging and a few truly intriguing, like:

  • Public transparency in governmental spending.
  • Regulations concerning pets.
  • Illegal resident regulations.          
  • Rights of self-defense as well as for family and property.
  • Two years mandatory military service.
  • Mandatory school attendance.
  • No daylight savings time.
  • Justice without prejudice.
  • Preserve / protect / honor humanity.
  • Care for veterans.
  • Checks and balances for governmental leaders.

Due to the fact that our home fellowship is a group of committed believers, the concepts of honoring, loving, and serving the Lord, as well as loving one’s neighbor were generally included, as were a few references to the 10 commandments. However, one individual wrote out only 4 laws for the new nation:

#1   “Jesus is Lord.”

#2  “All men and women are created equal, + all are sinners in need of salvation that only Jesus can secure.”

#3   “There are only 2 sexes, male and female as each is created by God.”

#4   “Marriage is between one woman and one man.”

WOW, these are all biblically-based (God’s) Truths, irrespective of the Mosaic Law and our current nation, and perhaps even a majority of individuals in our nation have abandoned such antiquated ideas. This may actually fully explain the current condition of our nation! The simple, yet profound abandonment of GOD!

“Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people.”                   

Proverbs 14:34

That evening, after outlining 7 reasons for God’s Law as presented to Moses for the Hebrew people, I asked this important question,

“OF WHAT VALUE ARE A NATION’S LAWS THAT EXCLUDE OR ELIMINATE THE VALUES OF GOD?”

Today, we need to ask that question as it relates to our own individual lives as well as that of our nation, because the Law of Moses was originally given to regulate / govern their society and reveal / expose humanity’s sin.

The apostle Paul shares his experience with the law in Romans 7:7-8.

What shall we say then? Is the Law sin? May it never be! On the contrary, I would not have come to know sin except through the Law; for I would not have known   about coveting if the Law had not said, “YOU SHALL NOT COVET.”

Paul was able to identify his own sin because God have given a law to his people!

While we are not spiritual legalists, since we have been set free from the law of sin and death through Christ Jesus (Romans 8:2, Titus 2:14), nonetheless, a lawless (unregulated – concerning right and wrong) life and a lawless (unregulated – concerning right and wrong) nation is extremely destructive and tremendously dangerous! There must be a “rule of law” that upholds a biblical standard of truth, and identifies, as well as enforces, concepts of right and wrong.

“Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness.”   

1 John 3:4, Matthew 24:12-13

Christ speaking to the disciples about the end times

“Because lawlessness is increased, most people’s love will grow cold.”

Matthew 24:12

“But we know that the Law is good, if one uses it lawfully, realizing the fact that law is not made for a righteous person, but for those who are lawless and rebellious, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers and immoral men and homosexuals and kidnappers and liars and perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound teaching,  according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, with which I have been entrusted.”

1 Timothy 1:8-11

Sadly, lawlessness prevails in our current nation and throughout our world.

Even though we have a promise of a different nation where righteousness prevails 24 / 7, in the interest of our children, our children’s children, Christ’s Church and the USA, will you meditate on our condition, live righteously, share your faith, and humbly pray for the Lord God Almighty to extend His powerful hand of renewal (perhaps complete reformation) and restoration?

“The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom, and his tongue speaks justice. The law of his God is in his heart; his steps do not slip.”

Psalm 37:30-31

Please Lord!

His & Yours, because of GRACE (God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense)

-PF