Author: West Oaks Fellowship

LAW

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

God’s law, as revealed in the Old Testament Scriptures, was never designed to bring about spiritual redemption and / or the salvation of humanity! While some teach that the keeping of the Law was the means and method of salvation before Christ, that concept works to instill much confusion. Therefore, one might legitimately ask, why was the O.T. Law given to God’s people?

First, the Law was designed to identify and expose one’s sin and clearly reveal the true spiritual condition of individuals.  Thus, it serves as a comparative test … this is what God says is right, perfect, and desirable, as compared to the reality of one’s own thinking, desires, actions, etc.  In essence, a clear, well-lit mirror that accurately reflects and reveals the exact image that is presented before it!  Therefore, God’s law revealed the defects and shortcomings of a person’s life / character.  The effect was to be as if one is driving down the highway at an accelerated speed and sees a patrol officer. Immediately the foot is lifted from the gas pedal and the vehicle slows to an appropriate / legal speed. That’s exactly what was intended to happen in the life of God’s people … when they recognized the Lord’s criteria, they adjusted their behavior, thoughts, etc. into compliance with the things of God (holiness, righteousness, justice, etc.).

Second, the Law was presented to the nation of God’s people (the 12 original tribes of Israel) to regulate their society. It was introduced when the Israelites sinned in the wilderness by worshiping the golden calf. The Lord God always wanted human beings to live by His guidance and leading. But those escaping their demise in Egypt were unwilling. As a result, God gave them a set of rules and regulations by which they would / should be governed. Every nation has laws, designating some behaviors as “legal’ and some as “illegal.” Generally speaking, illegal actions were / are accompanied by some form of judicial style punishment to offer recompense to the society or individuals damaged as a result of the Law being violated. As in the illustration stated above, those that refuse to slow down in obedience / agreement with the law are stopped, issued a ticket and compelled / mandated to pay a fine as a result of their failure to abide by the Law.

Third, by the keeping of God’s law, and through the abundant blessings of the Lord’s provisions, the nation was to be unique among all people groups in the world, and their testimony of the one true God would compel others to desire, know, and serve Him.

The Law, all 613 commands (mitzvot in Hebrew) extracted from the Old Testament, was aimed / pointed at humanity’s inability to conform and obey, bringing them to a place where they could recognize the weakness of their own flesh, their inability to live righteously 24/7, and their need for a faith-based relationship with a force and power greater than themselves and their own spiritual strength and abilities.

“Behold, as for the proud one, His soul is not right within him; but the righteous will live by his faith.”

Habakkuk 2:4

We must now inquire of the New Testament to gain a fuller, more complete revelation / understanding!

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.” 

Romans 7:7

For as many as are of the works of the Law are under a curse; for it is written, “CURSED IS EVERYONE WHO DOES NOT ABIDE BY ALL THINGS WRITTEN IN THE BOOK OF THE LAW, TO PERFORM THEM.” Now that no one is justified by the Law before God is evident; for, “THE RIGHTEOUS MAN SHALL LIVE BY FAITH.”

Galatians 3:10-11

Is the Law then contrary to the promises of God? May it never be! 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

God never intended for the Old Testament Law to be the universal law for all people, for all of time, by which one could gain / obtain a position of righteousness through the forgiveness / removal of sin!

For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did: sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh, so that the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.

Romans 8:3-4

Sometimes we, as New Testament believers, get confused by the biblical use of the word “law.” Romans 6:14 declares to all of us … “You are not under law but under grace” … which means we are not burdened by the law as one’s source for earning, gaining, or acquiring forgiveness of sin, salvation, righteousness, and a place in eternity with Christ Jesus.

What if righteousness could come through Law? If righteousness is available through the Law, then Christ became human, suffered, and died needlessly (without purpose / cause … for nothing)!

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

Galatians 2:21

Therefore, let us rejoice … my failure and inability to live by the tenants of the Law and upholding every portion of it, has resulted in a God-designed and orchestrated path of forgiveness, salvation, and righteousness, as well as an eternity with the Lord that I could have never acquired or attained on my own!

For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.

Ephesians 2:8-9

Have you received and accepted the gift of God? It’s time to decide which path you’ll choose!  

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

Pastor Frank

AI -v- GOD

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

Soon AI will be viewed as omniscient (all-knowing) and, the way things are progressing, omnipresent (constantly / everywhere present) … then, depending what it is allowed to control, even potentially an element of omnipotence (all powerful). While these are distinctly attributes of the one and only true God, and NEVER allocated as viable attributes to humanity, any life forms, or any created thing, we totter on the precipice of pridefully elevating access to information as a substitute for genuine spiritual understanding and absolute Truth (of which our God is the only proper source). 

One’s own perception and knowledge of AI, as compared to human probabilities and abilities, plays a crucial role in the use and / or dependence (willful / knowingly or unknowingly/ unaware) on AI. Unquestionably, we are connected in some way or in some manner to the broad-reaching tenacles of this technology, which is generally used to automate tasks, make decisions and somehow remarkably impact our everyday lives.  We live in an age where the unimaginable (like out of an old sci-fi movie or series) is not just within our grasp, but the emergence of AI, and its remarkable capabilities, is integrally affecting our world! It fuels our smartphones, empowers smart home devices, enables autonomous vehicles to skirt around neighborhoods and highways, and guides innumerable strategic financial decisions.  AI is not just seemingly everywhere – it’s actively sculpting the shape and intricacies of the future.

Currently, there are questionably, but acknowledged, 4 types of AI:

  1. Reactive Machines – These systems have no lasting memory, but are task specific … an input always delivers the same output. They take customer data, such as a purchase or an individual’s search history, and use it to deliver recommendations back to the customers.
  2. Limited Memory – These systems learn from history (whatever is available) to make choices / decisions.
  3. Theory of Mind (proposed to understanding and beliefs about the world, with the ability to interact socially, emotionally with / like humans) – Some experts say this doesn’t exist yet.
  4. Self-Aware – The ultimate stage of AI development. This type of AI system is aware of the world around it in such a way that it can understand, interpret, and predict human emotions and act / respond accordingly.

AI is undoubtedly transforming industries, from healthcare to finance, and revolutionizing the way humanity tackles problems and makes decisions! When AI is employed as a helpful tool, one might be fully inclined to accept it without any apprehension or concern.  However, when AI starts assuming roles typically handled by humans on a spiritual, psychological, or even an emotional level, it will ultimately lead to a sense of detachment from spiritual intimacy, from a meaningful relationship with Jesus Christ, and subjugate one’s dependence of the absolute truth of God’s Word and the direction of God’s Holy Spirit.

The untethered influence and habitual use of AI, which is becoming increasingly sophisticated and pervasive, will work to make one question their uniqueness as a human being, their individual spiritual gifting, and challenge one’s one dependence and connection to a living, all powerful, all knowing, ever-present supreme/ superior being … Jehovah ‘Elyown (Psalm 83:18 – Lord Most High), El-Shaddai (Exodus  6:3 – God Almighty).

A few weeks ago, I warned the congregation about the invasiveness of AI and its influence in the ministries of Christ’s Church from sermons to counseling, music and worship, to prayers . . . bots in the pulpit!  Today, I’m appealing to you, as your pastor (an under shepherd of Christ), one who will ultimately have to give an account for your soul according to Hebrews 13:17 . . . either be or become alert!

“Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you.”

But you, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day would overtake you like a thief; for you are all sons of light and sons of day. We are not of night nor of darkness; so then let us not sleep as others do, but let us be alert and sober. For those who sleep do their sleeping at night, and those who get drunk get drunk at night. But since we are of the day, let us be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet, the hope of salvation.    

1 Thessalonians 5:4-8

In context of Christ’s imminent return, which we daily anticipate . . .

“Be on guard, so that your hearts will not be weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life, and that day will not come on you suddenly  like a trap; for it will come upon all those who dwell on the face of all the earth. “But keep on the alert at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are about to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”

Luke 21:34-36

Brothers and sisters, I can’t make us wake up, I can’t make anyone become dependent on God’s Word and the direction / leadership of His Holy Spirit.  However, I can warn, like the watchman on the tower in Ezekiel 33:1-9 (check it out). That’s my job, but each of you have a responsibility as well. 

Jesus Christ, while ministering on earth, challenged us spiritually in Matt. 6:22-23:

“The eye is the lamp of the body; so then if your eye is clear, your whole body will be full of light. 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!”

We are children of light (Ephesians 5:7-16, Matthew 5:13-16), we’ve been removed from the kingdom of darkness, and supernaturally transferred to Christ’s Kingdom (Colossians 1:13-14, I Peter 2:9). Therefore, let us live and walk in the Light of Christ, God’s Holy Spirit, and His Word, rather than the darkness of this world which is currently being disguised as omniscient and omnipresent for humanity’s benefit and blessing! There is only one True God — so listen carefully and follow Him steadfastly!   

Please carefully consider these words.         — His & Yours, PF

ADVENT 2023

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

As many of you know, I never get over enthusiastic, as some do, about Christmas. Every now and then, someone will actually inquire about why I’m not enamored with beautiful Christmas trees, amazing decorations in or on a house that looks like a Santa Village, the seemingly bubbling excitement of the season, etc. Well, there are actually several reasons, none of which I ever ask anyone else to embrace. In fact, I’m generally supportive of others ideas / practices unless they somehow push the envelope too far attempting to make something spiritual / biblical that’s clearly not!

Here’s my take:

  1. It’s disturbing that the coming of Jesus Christ, His first advent, is culturally, no longer the primary focus of Christmas decor and “holiday” celebrations.
  2. The overall commercialization of the “season” has moved us to a place where the monetization of Christmas works to create enormous amounts of stress and anxiety, literally stealing the joy and peace that should accompany us during these special days.
  3. The disruption of normal spiritual routines, like prayer, reading / studying scripture, Christ-centered fellowship opportunities, and worship service participation has proven to be detrimental in many lives, while justified by, “It’s Christmas!”

In addition, as most of you are aware, Christmas, for me, brings memories of December 26, 1972 when I lost 19 of my friends, including both my parents, and was somewhat severally injured (the doctors claim my hands / fingers are 70% disabled) in The Woodlawn Baptist Church Winter Ski Trip / Retreat Bus Accident.

Nonetheless, I am very enthusiastic and truly delighted about ADVENT. Not its tradition, or the way it may be currently celebrated in various denominations and churches, but about setting aside some time every year in this season to truly rejoice in God’s Gift! The Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love that is abundantly offered to all humanity through Messiah, Jesus Christ! There is nothing of greater value and that assuredly inspires worship and ascribing Him the glory due His holy and glorious name!

The word “Advent” means a coming or arrival, and comes from the Latin word “adventus” which is translated from the Greek New Testament word, “parousia” — a reference to our Lord’s next ADVENT / 2nd Coming / return to earth from 1 Thessalonians 4:15-18!

“For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and  remain until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. 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.”

At West Oaks Fellowship, we celebrate ADVENT, recalling the prophecies of the Old Testament and the long-anticipated Messiah that God promised to the descendants of Abraham, His chosen / covenant people.

“For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; and the government will rest on His shoulders; and His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.” 
Isaiah 9:6

We, as believers also recognize that as the Lord’s “new” covenant people (see 2 Corinthians 3:4-6), we too have a promise … an ADVENT, Christ’s 2nd coming, His impending / imminent return.

So when they had come together, they were asking Him, saying, “Lord, is it at this time You are restoring the kingdom to Israel?” He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or epochs which the Father has fixed by His own authority; but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth.”

And after He had said these things, He was lifted up while they were looking on, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. And as they were gazing intently into the sky while He was going, behold, two men in white clothing stood beside them. They also said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky?  This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven.”

Acts 1:6-11

To me, Christmas is literally CHRIST – MASS (the original word), and when we gather as believers during this season, the Lord, Jesus Christ must be exalted above everything else as the highest and prominent priority!

I will give thanks to You, O Lord, among the peoples; I will sing praises to You among the nations. For Your lovingkindness is great to the heavens and Your truth to the clouds. Be exalted above the heavens, O God; let Your glory be above all the earth.

Psalm 57:9-11

Hopefully, we can accurately and clearly see through the clutter / distractions of these holidays and focus in on Him as the fulfilment of God’s promise and, as the One promised!

JOY TO THE WORLD — THE LORD HAS COME

JOY TO THE WORLD — HE IS COMING AGAIN!

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

Pastor Frank

GRATITUDE

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

Gratitude is a dying trait or characteristic in our society, as people too easily focus on what they don’t, or may not, have rather than being grateful for what they do hold. It’s easy for us to relate to the child who is envious of that kid down the street that has better toys, but what about as adults, and then, what about those that call themselves believers with their faith resting in Jesus Christ?

In our New Testament, Colossians 2:6-7, one finds a very challenging passage of Scripture related to the concept of gratitude.

Therefore, as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude.

Hard question … are we, as 21st century believers, “overflowing” with gratitude? The Greek root word used here for overflowing, if literally translated from ancient manuscripts, would read, “superabound,” thus the idea of overflowing (in quantity and quality) or superfluous. “More than enough” or “abounding” as found in the Amplified Bible / ESV works properly as well. 

Now, back to the hard question … are we, as 21st century believers, actually / actively overflowing / abounding in / with “gratitude?”

Yikes! Maybe in a seemingly materialistic culture that’s somewhat narcissistic, ego-centric, pleasure-seeking, and westernized, we’ve forgotten, or neglected the whole concept of living a life abounding / overflowing with gratitude. I mean … isn’t one’s life all about me being happy? You’ve all heard it said … “Just do what makes you happy!” However, happiness is not the basis for the overflowing gratitude found in believers as described in Colossians 2:6-7!

Gratitude, ‎in the Greek text, is a compound word from which we get the word eucharist (for those that were raised in more ecumenical churches). Proper translations of the word into modern day English, in addition to gratitude, are the giving of thanks, thanksgiving, and gratefulness.   

In the Greek world / society, the concept of giving thanks was culturally held in high esteem as they offered public gratitude for rulers, and in their pagan religious ceremonies, offering thanksgiving to the gods for their blessings upon humanity.

The apostle Paul demonstrated the invaluable meaning of “gratitude” in Romans 16:3-4 when he offers thankfulness for Priscilla and Aquila, “who for my life risked their own necks.” In Luke 17:12-19, Jesus Christ is approached by 10 lepers crying out, “Master, have mercy on us.” Our Lord administers miraculous healing and tells them to go show themselves to their Jewish priest so they can be declared whole (no longer unclean). On their way, one of the 10 suddenly recognizes the healing that has occurred in his own body and turns back to find and thank Christ while glorifying God… “and he fell on his face at His feet, giving thanks to Him.” His life was changed forever by our Savior and Lord! Undoubtedly, he was “overflowing in / with gratitude!” If you know this account, the next words of Christ Jesus are somewhat unsettling and unforgettable! “Were there not ten cleansed? But the nine — where are they?”

I’m reminded of an old song written by Billy Smiley and Mark Gersmehl (both of the band, White Heart) and the title song of Geoff Moore’s first album … “WHERE ARE THE OTHER NINE?”

Have mercy on us, the ten lepers cried

Make us whole again, clean and purified

He said to go and show the priest

That they’d been cleansed of their disease

Ten men saw that they were changed

Just one came back to praise His name

Where are the other nine?  Why did they just go on?

Where are the other nine?  Whose lives have just begun?

Out of ten, why is there only one?

It’s a great question, isn’t it? The Lord rightfully inquired! Now I must ask, “Am I one of the other 9, or living my life everyday like the 1?”

Consider Colossians 3:15, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be (literally – show yourself to be) thankful (being grateful, having / holding gratitude).”

During the next few weeks at WOF on Sunday mornings, we will be diligently studying God’s Word in order to learn, and fully embrace, what it means to live lives that are “overflowing with gratitude!” Bring your swords and let’s defeat the enemy who is always striving to squelch and defeat the abounding / abundant gratitude of the Lord’s people.

MAY WE BE STEADFAST AND IMMOVABLE!

– From 1 Corinthians 15:58 

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

Pastor Frank

HOLINESS

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

You may remember, West Oaks Fellowship used to regularly incorporate the song, “Take My Life” (aka Holiness) as an integral part of our worship ministries. The message of the song, if one listens carefully, is quite challenging, but unmistakably true!  At least for me anyway …

“Holiness, holiness

Is what I long for

Holiness is what I need

Holiness, holiness

Is what You want from me.”

If I start from the last line and work up, I must spiritually, and then even practically agree — that Holiness is what You (the Lord) wants / desires for me. Moving on up to the third line from the bottom, I then, too, must spiritually, as well as practically, agree – Holiness is what I need!  Then I move up to the top two lines and pause … is Holiness truly something I am constantly longing for, or am I willing to settle for much less?

2 Corinthians 7:1 reminds us concerning the Lord’s positioning us as “the temple of the living God (2 Corinthians 6:16b) – “Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.”

The concept of holiness, as conveyed in this text, denotes a separation unto the Lord, much like the concept of sanctification (being set apart), as well as the manifestation or continuous display of this quality in one’s life.  In accordance with this verse (2 Corinthians 7:1), believers are instructed, not asked, to be perfecting “Holiness” while living out life in this world. Too often, believers discount this admonition, relegating it to a futuristic concept that will occur in the Lord’s Kingdom or in eternity.  However, in reality, Hebrews 12:10-11 cannot be tossed! “For they (human fathers) disciplined us for a short time as seemed best to them, but He disciplines us for our good, so that we may share His holiness. All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness.” It’s apparent, according to the truth of the biblical text, that the Lord’s discipline in one’s life works somehow supernaturally, allowing us to ultimately “share His (Christ’s) holiness!”

At that … for believers like myself, that long to live in holiness, but sometimes crumble when over-stressed and driven by feelings / emotions, rather than “taking every thought captive” … it becomes impossible to ignore the instruction and admonition of Ephesians 4:20-24!

But you did not learn Christ in this way, if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught in Him, just as truth is in Jesus, that, in reference to your former manner of life, you lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, and  that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.

Without question, unmistakably, our experiencing holiness is God’s purpose and will for all His followers / children, now and forever, just as the Apostle reminds the Thessalonians … “so that He may establish your hearts without blame in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all His saints.”  (1 Thessalonians 3:13)

The “Song Of Moses” (Exodus 15:1-15), asks a declarative, rhetorical question (vs11), “Who is like You among the gods, O Lord? Who is like You, majestic in holiness, Awesome in praises, working wonders?” Just think, as a faithful disciple of Jesus Christ, you’ve been invited, encouraged, challenged, and actually instructed to share in our Lord’s holiness!  While this word, HOLINESS, which has limited use in the scriptures, isn’t often considered as a significant part of a believer’s spiritual development, perhaps we should fully embrace this concept as a significant milestone on one’s path to spiritual maturity.  The mindset of faithful believers must be transformed from, what can I get away with and it be considered ok, into the truth of 1 Peter 1:14-16!

As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts which were yours in your ignorance, but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; because it is written, “YOU SHALL BE HOLY, FOR I AM HOLY.”

Help me, help us, Lord!  May holiness be manifested (clearly seen and displayed) in our lives.

Pastor Frank

FEAR

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

Here’s a non-biblical definition of fear: A strong, sometimes uncontrollable, unpleasant emotion, caused by actual or perceived danger and / or threat induced by something or someone.

Have you ever wondered why the word “fear” appears so many times in the Bible? In fact, there are over 500 references throughout the scriptures … some referring to fear as described above, others reminding us to “fear God,” and a few offering instruction for faithful believers, encouraging us to “fear not.”

The first biblical passage using “fear” is found in Genesis 9:2 in respect to the animals of God’s creation’s perspective on humanity, and the last is found in Revelation 19:5 concerning the Lord’s bond-servants offering Him praise. Needless to say, these two words don’t have the same meaning in their original language. The Revelation verse refers to “fear” as being in awe and reverent before the Lord, while in Genesis, the “fear” is that from the perspective of trembling, or being in terror as standing before a superior being / power.

Undoubtedly, it is right and good for us, as believers, to “fear” God by demonstrating genuine reverence, deep respect, and honor towards Him.

Some would argue that three types or categories of fear exist:

  • Rational Fear occurs where there is a real, imminent threat.
  • Primal Fear is defined as an innate fear which is somehow pre- programmed into our brains.
  • Irrational Fears are the ones that don’t make logical sense and may vary greatly from person to person.

Others come from a different, more descriptive perspective:

  • Fear of Failure and / or Success.
  • Fear of Rejection.
  • Fear of Change / Unknown (loving the status quo, even if change is needed).
  • Fear of Speaking (publicly).
  • Fear of Imperfection (or not being good enough / judged).
  • Fear of Vulnerability (being open, showing weaknesses).
  • Fear of Time (chronophobia – the passage of days, months, years).
  • Fear of Loneliness.

Biblically, fear can be good for a believer, or it can become tremendously destructive like the lyrics of a song we sing, “fear is a liar!” However, fear can serve as a motivation to follow the Lord, living righteously and humbly serving Him as one’s Lord. In addition, every individual, at some point in their life, must ask the questions, “What am I afraid of?” and “Are my fears, real or perceived, stopping me from achieving what the Lord is asking of me in this life?”

I know this will sound over-simplified to many, but biblically, there are actually only 2 fears in our world. (I know, “what about my fear of falling or fear of wasps or snakes?” … I’m not suggesting that they are not real)

“the spirit of fear”  &  “the fear of the Lord”

THE SPIRIT OF FEAR

2 Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of timidity (fear / cowardness), but of power and love and discipline (sound / right judgement).

According to this verse, we as believers, have been supernaturally granted the exact opposite of timidity, fear, fearfulness, fright! I’ll never forget at Hurricane Harvey (6 years ago last Sunday), when I was trying to get back to our house in order to take care of Brenda and Wofetoo — I had no fear. Tommie Elpers drove through really high water (at least 4-6 feet deep in places on FM 1093 to drop me off near the back entrance to our subdivision. I jumped in a boat that a fellow resident was navigating and we tore down a 6 foot wood fence to get in. He dropped me off once we saw some dry ground and houses that weren’t flooded. However, that wasn’t our section! To get to our home, I still had to walk through chest-high water, and then once in our area, avoid all the underground drains. The Lord was with me, I was never afraid or fearful, I got home and then we were ultimately delivered to safety by another neighbor who had a military hummer that would run, with the now deeper water, in the cab. The young lady from across the street, who went out with us and another senior couple were all scared to death. Now, I’m not saying I had anything other than a confidence / trust that I was moving rightly and that the Lord was directing my path / every step. Did we suffer loss? Sure, a great one, almost everything in our home destroyed, plus all the damage to the house (as many of you remember).

Isaiah 41:10 “Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”

THE FEAR OF THE LORD

Proverbs 1:7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Fearing God leads to an abundant (blessed) life! It brings wisdom, it provides refuge, and it shows / fully demonstrates our reverence for / to God. This kind of fear is extremely healthy. Too often, God’s people forget that our Lord is omnipresent and omniscient. Fearing Him is to love Him and show forth our willingness to obey and submit under His leadership and direction (guidance) even in things / times / circumstances / situations we do not understand!

Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person. For God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil.

Brothers and sisters, here’s the bottom line …

Psalm 34:4 I sought the Lord, and He answered me, and delivered me from all my fears.

May this truth be alive in all Your people, Lord, and especially those of us that gather for worship and teaching at West Oaks Fellowship! Let us be fearless (“fear not” – from Isaiah 41:10 above) because we know, and are confident, that You are with us 24/7!

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

Pastor Frank

ENSAMPLE

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

This is not a common word for us in our everyday reading or communication; however, it holds a very significant meaning in our New Testament Scriptures. You may recall that recently, on Sunday, July 23, 2023, when we honored Dr. Joe Wall, we carefully and very distinctly used that word on the plaque we presented him.

Some modern translations use the word “pattern,” which serves the appropriate textual purpose and meaning decently, but is perhaps still a little lacking.  The ASV (American Standard), and KJV (King James), seem to hold the line on “ensample.”  Weaker translations all seem to use example for the purpose of modern-day vernacular, which fails to convey the deep spiritual concepts of the original Greek root word, tupos; translated as ensample.

Tupos (Gk) primarily denotes “a blow” (from a root tup—, seen also in tupto, “to strike”), hence, a serious impression — the mark made from a powerful blow as a permanent scar. It can also refer to a dye – that’s as in a coin or ancient stamp. You may recall from John 20:25, that the disciple Thomas demanded to, “see in His (Jesus Christ) hands the imprint of the nails, and put my finger into the place of the nails, and put my hand into His side.”

Then in Romans 6:17 we find this word used in reference to the teaching that believers were charged to become obedient unto. 

Consider the Apostle Paul’s instruction to us in Philippians 3:17, “Brethren, join in following my example, and observe those who walk according to the pattern (Gk – tupos; ensample – that permanent blow / strike of transformation that occurs only in and through an unrelenting faith and commitment to Christ as one’s own master) you have in us.” In 2 Thessalonians 3:9, the church is instructed to follow the Apostle’s “pattern” (tupos) of life discipline. Unquestionably again, this is due to the stamp of Christ alive in him, therefore making him an appropriate “ensample” in the lives of anyone committed to the Lord.  

Then in 2 Peter 2:6, the imprint is extremely dramatic / dynamic as the Apostle Peter employs this word, desiring this stamp, this scar to have a lasting testimony upon all who refuse the truth … “And if He condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah to destruction by reducing them to ashes, having made them an example to those who would live ungodly lives thereafter!”  There’s a lasting imprint!

Dr. Joe Wall was a “ensample” to me, almost from the very beginning of the ministry back in 1985. I sincerely pray / hope that concept can / will be true for all of us as well! May we demonstrate life with the Word and God’s Holy Spirit freely flowing from within, and then flowing out to those the Lord has uncoincidentally placed in our lives and across our paths. 

“In all things show yourself to be an example (ensample) of good deeds, with purity in doctrine, dignified, sound in speech which is beyond reproach, so that the opponent will be put to shame, having nothing bad to say about us.”   -- Titus 2:7-8

His and yours because of GRACE (God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense)     

–PF 

FREEDOM / LIBERTY / INDEPENDENCE

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

Over the past 38 years, as the pastor of our church / ministry, I have taught numerous messages and various series on the topics of Freedom, Liberty, Independence, etc. In addition, I’ve frequently written articles (16), dating back to 2004, for our monthly newsletter, “Fusion,” on similar themes / subjects. Here are the links to some of those articles:

Thoughts On Freedom  

A Nation Under God

America

America (#2)

Truth and Liberty

Freedom of Speech

Faith & Freedom

Liberty

Today, rather than addressing these concepts from a social, cultural, or political perspective, I’ll discuss the most significant and important aspects of Freedom / Liberty / Independence.  

In our current, ever-expanding pagan / secular philosophy, individuals are eagerly embracing liberty, and defining it as “absolute freedom” … insisting they have the right to (or can) live however (in any way) they may choose / desire! This lifestyle of no restraints is based upon a self-defined independence or concept of freedom that ultimately justifies anything and everything (whatever) one may or may not choose to do, resulting in a world without restrictions / limitations of any kind. At the outset, this may sound quite attractive or desirable; however, in such a society or culture, both adults and children will inevitably have great difficulty distinguishing / determining / discerning right from wrong and / or good from evil.

It’s often forgotten that genuine freedom, as well as true liberty, are impossible without Truth, and are unequivocally connected to human responsibility (see Luke 12:48). Therefore, as believers in Jesus Christ, we must be very careful — properly defining Christian Freedom, as well as Christian Liberty, while cautiously exercising and implementing these values correctly / appropriately in our lives.

OUR LIBERTY AND FREEDOM COMES ONLY FROM / THROUGH JESUS CHRIST!

“It was for freedom (or liberty) (Greek – eleutheria; independence from bondage) that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.” (Galatians 5:1) Obviously, the scripture is addressing a realm of freedom distinct from that of political or societal liberty. In fact, this freedom is not granting believers the right to live however they want, say whatever they want, and / or do whatever they want, whenever they want! This step of independence is from the dominating control and entrapments of legalistic, enslaving religious systems that falsely attempt to persuade individuals to seek eternal life and / or righteousness (right standing before a deity) based upon their own deeds and actions. That form of bondage is present in nearly all world religions because one’s eternal destiny is based upon achievements that are good according to a particular belief system or what’s deemed as worthy / righteous within a certain / particular culture.

In Christ, by genuine faith in Him alone, one undeservedly is granted deliverance (the action of being rescued or set free – liberated or released) from the curse that God’s Law pronounces upon all sinners who are striving unsuccessfully to make themselves good enough for a spot in heaven eternally. Galatians 3:10-14 states, “For as many as are of the works of the Law are under a curse; for it is written, ‘CURSED IS EVERYONE WHO DOES NOT ABIDE BY ALL THINGS WRITTEN IN THE BOOK OF THE LAW, TO PERFORM THEM.’ Now that no one is justified by the Law before God is evident; for, ‘THE RIGHTEOUS MAN SHALL LIVE BY FAITH.’ However, the Law is not of faith; on the contrary, ‘HE WHO PRACTICES THEM SHALL LIVE BY THEM.’ Christ redeemed us from the curse of the Law, having become a curse for us — for it is written, ‘CURSED IS EVERYONE WHO HANGS ON A TREE’ — in order that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we would receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.”

NO ONE IS JUSTIFIED (made righteous) BY THE LAW!

Romans 8:1-5

“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did: sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh, so that the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.”

NOTE: “What the law could not do . . . God did”

HOW: By “sending His own Son”

Galatians 3:22

“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.”

ONE WAY — JESUS!

Galatians 4:4

“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.”

Those that Christ has set free are in fact “free indeed” (see John 8:36) … we are now free to live as the sons and daughters of the “ALMIGHTY.” (see 2 Corinthians 6:18) Now just think about that and its implications for one’s life right now and forever!

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

Pastor Frank

SEALED

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

The word “sealed” has many meanings and is used in numerous ways in our everyday language; however, when it comes to its use in Scripture, therein one finds great spiritual significance for each and every true disciple of Jesus Christ!

As an example, let’s consider Ephesians 1:13-14 …

In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation — having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of God’s own possession, to the praise of His glory.

In this incredible passage that speaks volumes to every believer in Christ Jesus, Paul employs the Greek root word “‎‎sphragizo” – to stamp (with a signet or private distinguishing mark) for security reasons or preservation and/or permanency (both literally or figuratively); by implication, to keep, seal up, or plug (as in stopping something up / keep from leaking). In Matthew 27:66, Christ’s tomb was “sealed” for security purposes. Revelation 20:3 reminds us that Satan is “sealed” (to shut him both up and out) in the abyss for 1000 years during the millennial reign of Christ and His redeemed, resurrected, glorified saints / priests! (see Romans 8:17; 2 Timothy 2:12; Revelation 5:10, 20:6)

Accordingly, we as believers have been “sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise” (PTL) “as a pledge of our inheritance!” Now I’m not sure any of us can really understand or comprehend privilege, unless we can fully wrap up this undeserved spiritual endowment that’s been abundantly poured out upon His people. We carry the distinguishing mark of Jesus Christ in the presence, power, preservation, and permanency of God’s Holy Spirit. Unique in all of creation and humanity … we are the ones sealed up by Him “as a pledge on our inheritance!”

“Pledge” – as used in this text, is a Greek word coming from a Hebrew origin, meaning the front-end part of the purchase-money, or in reference to assets that are given / paid in advance as security / a guarantee that the rest of a specific price will be paid in full. This is paid in earnest, from which modern-day real estate contracts derive the term earnest money. As a spiritual and theological application, Jesus Christ has purchased us for / on behalf of God the Father by His own shed blood (see Revelation 5:9), and then, for one’s own assurance, God’s Holy Spirit has been dispatched to be with us and in us, as His possession, “a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation.” (See 1 Peter 2:9) This is security / a guarantee that our Lord’s sacrifice and atoning death, coupled with His indescribable grace and our simple faith / belief in Him, provides every genuine believer with their inheritance … everlasting life, as well as an eternity in His presence. As His people, we are even boldly instructed to confidently rest in and fully rely on this perpetual, immutable truth. (see Hebrews 4:1-16)         

For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, “Abba! Father.” The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him.

— Romans 8:14-17

Later, in Paul’s letter to the church at Ephesus, he reminds believers not to grieve the Holy Spirit of God in Whom they have been “sealed” while awaiting the day of redemption. (see Ephesians 4:30) Note, believers are “sealed,” not by anything one may achieve or instigate according to their own will or power, but as the authoritative, commanding act of God! One is brought into a life lived by faith in Christ Jesus by a supernatural act of God according to His lovingkindness, mercy, and of course, sovereignty and providence. Then by that same mechanism, “sealed” by Him, for Him, and ultimately stamped with this distinguishing mark for His glory! 

To be “sealed” with God’s Holy Spirit as a pledge of our inheritance in Christ is the gracious gift of God, whereby He demonstrates the authenticity of a believer’s relationship with Him. Here is full-fledged proof / evidence of His authority, His ownership, and His commitment to each one of us forever!

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

Pastor Frank

FOLLOW

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

It’s 2023. Media is king. If you haven’t noticed by now, chances are you have been living under a rock. Whether it be movies, TV, social media, news outlets, magazines, or newspapers, media has never been more prevalent in the lives of people today. Everyone follows someone. It has never been easier to choose and filter where your sources come from and choose which voices to listen to and which voices to tune out.

The word “follow” (Gk akoloutheó) is defined in the Scriptures, particularly Matthew 16:24, as:

“to accompany, to follow one who precedes, to join as or become a disciple.”

When we closely follow these media types, we in essence become their disciple, listening to and taking to heart what is said, whether it be true or false, good or evil, or from a biblical worldview or otherwise. We often look to these people to enlighten us, to show us the way, to explain the things going on around us, or to lead us on a path forward. And more times than not, we are hoodwinked, led astray, run amuck, and flat out deceived. Perhaps we’ve been going about this wrong.

In Psalm 119:105, we read, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” The Bible itself clearly states that our paths are illuminated by Scripture. The Word of God (1 Thessalonians 2:13), which is living and active (Hebrews 4:12), and profitable for all kinds of things (2 Timothy 3:16), shows the way that we must follow. But there’s even better news than that!

In the past few weeks, Pastor Frank and I have preached on proper Bible study and being a disciple of Christ. These go hand in hand. If we follow the Word (Scripture), we will in turn be following the Word (Jesus Christ). Conversely, we follow the Way (Jesus Christ, John 14:6) by following the way (Psalm 119:105).

This is as clear to us now as ever before, although all throughout Scripture, the Way has been revealed to all those would have ears to hear. In the Old Testament alone, the Ancient Word (Psalm 119:9-16, 160) shows us the Ancient Paths (Jeremiah 6:16), that leads us to the Ancient of Days (Daniel 7:9-14).

In the New Testament, several messages by Jesus reveal who we are supposed to follow. Luke 14:25-33 is one of the most powerful messages we have about the importance of following Christ, and counting the cost of doing so. But Christ, being the Word, also emphasized the heeding of His Word throughout His ministry, such as in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 7:24-27).

If we continue to look forward, Paul writes regarding the Truth of God’s Word and the person of Jesus Christ at work simultaneously. In Romans 10:17, faith in Christ comes by hearing the Word. In Colossians 3:16, we are admonished to commit the Word to our hearts so deeply that it dwells in us. In 2 Timothy 2:15, we are told to be accurate handlers of the Word. And in 1 Corinthians 11:1, Paul says as I imitate Christ, imitate me.

Time and time again throughout God’s Holy Word, we are shown how studying, understanding, meditating upon, heeding, and living according to Scripture is vitally united to knowing our Great Shepherd, hearing His voice, and following Him. There is no disconnect; if we wish to follow the Lord, we must follow His Word, and vice versa. Jesus Christ is at the same time the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No part of this is in existence without the other. Since this is the case, the ultimate Truth revealed in the Scripture and realized in the person of Jesus Christ must be considered when following the Lord.

Everyone follows someone. I wonder, who do you follow today? Will you merely profess Christ, and run around listening to everyone but Him? Or will you be a doer of the Word, and not merely a deluded hearer (James 1:22)? Don’t let anyone tell you any differently. Even in 2023,                                        

JESUS

IS

KING.

Soli Deo Gloria,

PJ