West Oaks Fellowship

APOCALYPSE

Posted on May 3, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

Obviously if you’re reading Fusion, January 2013, the heretical prophesies of the Mayan calendars (see the WOF web site for article in 2010 on the movie 2012) and other ancient sacrileges such as the writings of so-called prophets like Montanus and his prophetesses (Prisca and Maximilla), St Malachy, Saint Columba (aka Columbkille), Paracelsus, and Nostradamus are proven bogus and counterfeit. In addition, we have all seen and heard the “doomsday” predictions that inevitably surround international crises and other notable events such as national tragedies, catastrophes, political and/or governmental upheavals etc.

Remember the millennial-bug scare of 2000, which gave good fodder for many apocalypse and doomsday preppers? Who can forget doomsday cults, such as the People’s Temple, David Koresh, and the Heaven’s Gate Community? Such outlandish views, as well as incessant, inevitably incorrect predictions about the future cause many to scoff at any talk of future world-wide cataclysm, devastation, and /or regional disasters.

As a result, many in our world classify those who address these issues biblically in the same camp as other “stranger than fiction” individuals and conspiracy theorists. Surprisingly, some “bible-believing” Christians react regimentally, even vehemently opposing discussions and biblical studies on topics related to humanity’s future. In reality there will be tribulation, unquestionably a great tribulation in which wrath consumes the earth, and all of its people/nations face the great and terrible day of our Lord.

Sometimes our modern day media gets on board as well, presenting documentaries with “scholars” and “specialists” from many different perspectives and disciplines, which only serve to erode the credibility and authority of our biblical narative and distinctively Christian world-view. Thus, popular misconceptions arise, distorting the true Christian viewpoint of escatology (study of end times – literally “things to come”) and any apocalypse. Undeniably, ignorance, continuous confusion, and perpetual misunderstandings of Christ’s return and its purpose prevail. Wonder whose work that is?

The word “apocalypse” (Ancient Greek: ἀποκάλυψις apocálypsis, from ἀπό and καλύπτω meaning ‘un-covering’), translates literally from Greek into English as disclosure of knowledge, a revealing (possibly of something hidden), a lifting of the veil, or a revelation … as in the Revelation of Jesus Christ to the Apostle John in what we biblically refer to as the book of Revelation.

Your reading of this publication is evidence, once again, that our God, the one and only true God, reigns eternally as the sovereign and supreme authority over all humanity and His glorious handiwork (Creation … all that’s seen and unseen)! The fact that all these soothsaying prophets missed the apocalypse, or the “end of the world,” simply proves the fallacy and error of their technique. God’s true prophets are never wrong, they never miss! In fact, as you’ve heard me say before, while close counts in the games of horseshoes or washers, as well as in warfare with hand-grenades, mortars, and atomic bombs, close certainly doesn’t score anything in futuristic prophecy, apocalyptic considerations, or eschatology. Only direct hits are credited with accuracy and success.

Therefore, why would any consideration be given to the mystical, demonically-inspired predictions of a pagan culture’s calendar, or the bizarre ramblings and writings of mediums, shamanists, and spiritualists who claim to have some special gifting and unique, obscure understanding or revelation. Only the inerrant (without error in the original form/manuscript) scriptures declare the things to come before they happen — not as some complex formula with multiple variables that might or might not be fulfilled! No, exact, direct hits are the only writings and messages worthy of one’s consideration … and consequently only a supreme being that knows the end at the beginning, the outcome before the inception, can be totally and inexplicably infallible.

Therefore, as true believers, when considering “things to come” and the future apocalypse, let us rest assured that what God has said will surely be. We are never to be tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine or the contemporary ideas that so easily sweep through the non-discerning, doctrinally compromised modern church, society, philosophy, or culture. Our faith and future must rest extraordinarily in Christ Jesus and His complete revelation of apocalyptic events and “things to come.” Any and all other sources will be proven inaccurate and fallible — just like the erroneous Mayan calendar stands today!

There will come a time when each of us is called upon to express our belief/faith in an apocalyptic mode. Done properly, with biblical authority and inspiration of God’s Holy Spirit, it becomes a powerful witness to both believer and unbeliever alike. Unquestionably our world-view includes an end … the Ancient of Days enthroned as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. This is not an expression of our own self-importance and arrogance, but a genuine desire for the world to know Christ’s forgiveness, the power of His victorious resurrection, and His abundant life, now and forever! To have this capability, as empowered by God to change/reach our world, and yet retreat to non-apocalyptic mode because of all the heretical nonsense, denies our Lord’s ability to redeem even the darkest history and squanders a precious treasure. Undoubtedly, Christ asks and prepares His people to speak clearly in every opportunity!

— His & Yours by GRACE,

Pastor Frank

MIGHT & POWER VS. SPIRIT

Posted on May 2, 2022May 2, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

When Solomon built the first Hebrew temple which the Babylonians destroyed (586 BC – See 2 Kings 25:8–10), he had almost unlimited resources at his disposal since his father, King David, had fought many battles and collected huge spoils of war to be used in building God’s original temple. (See 1 Chronicles 26:20, 27-28) King Solomon was a powerful monarch with a vast kingdom, even ruling over some Gentile populated regions, but the Jews in the days of Zerubbabel and the prophet Zechariah had no such power, authority, or wealth!

In 538 BC, Zerubbabel, a leader from the tribe of Judah, was allowed to return to Jerusalem with other Jewish captives. (See Ezra 1:1-4) The Persian king appointed Zerubbabel as governor of Judah (See Haggai 1:1), and he began rebuilding the temple with the help of Jeshua, the high priest. (See Ezra 3:2-3, 8)

It took Zerubbabel two years to rebuild the Temple’s foundation. Construction was then delayed due to hostile opposition (See Ezra 4:1–5) and as a result, Persia withdrew its support. For seventeen years the temple construction remained unfinished. (See Ezra 4:21)

Nonetheless, while undoubtedly many had given up on the project, our Lord had a different / superior plan for His temple. God then spoke to the remnant of His people in Jerusalem through His prophet in Zechariah 4:6-7:

This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel saying, ‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the Lord of hosts. What are you, O great mountain? Before Zerubbabel you will become a plain; and he will bring forth the top stone with shouts of “Grace, grace to it!”

Here in this text, the word “might” is referring to military strength, what people can do together as an army … but the remnant had no soldiers. “Power” refers to the strength of a commanding individual, but Zerubbabel’s abilities were no doubt limited, nothing like that of King Solomon! The idea of not being discouraged and trusting the Lord was at the heart of the prophet’s message. Is it possible that the Spirit of God would enable them to accomplish something even in their apparent weakness?

There are three ways we can attempt to do the work of God:

1) We can trust our own strength and wisdom.
2) We can borrow the resources of the world.
3) We can depend on the power of God, the Almighty (omnipotent).

The first two approaches may usually appear to succeed, but the true work of the Lord is not accomplished in that manner! Only work done through the power of God’s Holy Spirit will glorify Him and endure the fires of His judgment. (See 1 Corinthians 3:12-15)

With limited resources, completing the temple looked to those Jews as impossible as moving a mountain! However, God told Zerubbabel that he would, by the power of God’s Spirit, level the mountain and make it a plain! In a similar manner, Jesus told His disciples that simple faith like a mustard seed (small but alive) could move mountains. (See Matthew 17:20; 21:21).

How often do we say that we are depending on God’s Holy Spirit? Revivalist Vance Havner (1901-1986), in commenting in that context on the methods of the modern-day church, stated:

But actually we are so wired up with our own devices that if the fire does not fall from heaven, we can turn on a switch and produce false fire of our own. If there is no sound of a rushing mighty wind, we have the furnace all set to blow hot air instead. God save us from a synthetic Pentecost!

God finishes His work! (See Zechariah 4:7b-10) God assured Zerubbabel that he would complete the rebuilding of the temple and the people would rejoice. The Lord gave a clear promise that Zerubbabel would complete the temple! (See Zechariah 4:9)

Shouldn’t this remind us of God’s promise and the true working of His Holy Spirit in us?

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. (See Philippians 1:6)

Are you serving and living in the strength our Lord supplies through the presence of His Holy Spirit? (See I Peter 4:11)

Think about it, pray about it!

His & Yours, PF

PERSECUTION…AN EXAMPLE

Posted on April 29, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

The following message was written by Joseph Hay, Youth Ministry Director

The high priest questioned them saying, “We gave you strict orders not to continue teaching in this name, and yet, you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and intend to bring this man’s blood upon us.” But Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom you had put to death by hanging Him on a cross. He is the one whom God exalted to His right hand as a Prince and a Savior, to grant repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. And we are witnesses of these things; and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey Him. –Acts 5:27-32

In this passage, Peter and the other apostles are in front of a court of the religious leaders where they are accused of not following the law. Peter defiantly said that the apostles would not stop preaching and teaching the Word of God and the teaching of Jesus Christ because they must obey God over any man or law.

Today in Houston, pastors, elders, church leaders, and Christians are facing a similar situation. The mayor of Houston, Annise Parker, and the city attorney’s office previously subpoenaed several pastors’ sermons in which the topic of homosexuality and/or “HERO” (Houston Equal Rights Ordinance) were mentioned. It is apparent that the city is planning to use these sermons to accuse pastors of hate speech as an attempt to censor what Christian pastors may say from their pulpits, thus attempting to either modify or sensor God’s Truth.

This article is not aimed at fighting these actions, or at speaking to their legality, instead, it focuses on how believers should conduct themselves in times like this.

It is open persecution when individuals involved in the Lord’s work/ministry are told to stop preaching the Gospel and the Truth of God. We are clearly now in that time of persecution, and we should respond … However, we should not respond with anger and hatred toward those persecuting us. Instead, committed believers should respond as the apostles did when they were faced with a similar situation:

So they went on their way from the presence of the Council (persecuting entity), rejoicing that they had been considered worthy to suffer shame for His name. And every day, in the temple and from house to house, they kept right on teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ. –Acts 5:41-42.

We should REJOICE in this time because it is our city that is found worthy to suffer for His name. Persecution of God’s holy, ordained church has never been a bad thing because our Lord has used times of persecution to strengthen and grow His church. One of the main reasons for this growth is that persecution commonly produces both purity and unity within God’s people. Purity of both the message and the people increases because if one truly doesn’t believe in Christ and His power then most likely one wouldn’t be willing to give up one’s life for Christ.

Unity among believers also increases because when facing a common problem, believers put aside issues/differences to focus on the larger crisis. We have seen this unity during this current crisis because hundreds of churches are praying and supporting the targeted Houston pastors. Certainly, we should rejoice during this time of persecution because our Lord has seen fit to allow us to suffer for His great name.

Nonetheless, the New Testament apostles did not stop with just rejoicing, they continued to boldly proclaim the message of Jesus Christ even though they were ordered to be silent (attempted censorship). This, church (WOF), is what we MUST do. We MUST continue sharing the truth in love and teaching the Word of God, even if men, cultures, governments, religions, or any other powers on earth command us to stop! Before Christ ascended he said:

All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. –Matthew 28:18-20

— Joseph

DEACON

Posted on April 29, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

In Acts 6:1-6 one finds some of the minority groups, in this case Hellenistic Jews, who were not being properly cared for in Christ’s early church. In Acts 6:3 the Jerusalem congregation (the only one in existence at that time) is instructed to, “Select from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may put in charge of this task.” The original apostles gave this instruction for three, very distinct, reasons:

1. There were practical needs in the church body/membership.

2. The unmeet needs presented an opportunity for potential division/conflict within Christ’s body.

3. The Apostles needed to stay focused on their duties/calling and establish the church’s ministry in Christ’s physical absence.

“But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”

Over the course of church history, the role of “Deacon” has been modified to mean everything from a group of humble servants with no official capacity in Christ’s church, to a committee of individuals with excessive ecclesiastical authority, or even to something totally non-existent, ignored. Some modern-day ministry organizations have even implemented substitutes by various names in an attempt to fulfill the biblical roles of deacon perhaps without yielding to or considering the biblical processes or qualifications for such a distinguished office in Christ’s church. I Timothy 3:13 reminds us, “For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a high standing and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.”

At West Oaks Fellowship, we strive, and it’s our duty, to diligently arrange and organize the functions of our church/ministry according to the pattern(s) established in the New Testament. Certainly, we don’t ignore centuries of church heritage and development, but give careful considerations to our predecessors views and practices from which we were conceived. Even so, our efforts remain continuous and steadfast in every attempt of church polity to restore the functions of church offices as they are defined for us in the Lord’s New Testament scriptures.

The Greek words for servant and deacons, dia/kono$‎, diakonos (dee-ak’-on-os) / diako/noi$,‎ diakonois (dee-ak’-on-ois), are similar throughout the New Testament. However, contextually speaking there is always a distinction between the references to those holding the biblically-ordained service office of “Deacon” (appearing in plurality, a noun), when compared to other uses of the word, in reference to those rendering their services/ministry to Christ and/or His church. As an example, any believer can be an effective servant/minister, ‎dia/kono$‎, diakonos (dee-ak’-on-os) (to/of Christ and His church), without necessarily holding the office of “Deacon.” Epaphras is a perfect example found in Colossians 1:7-8 or Tychicus in 4:7-8. At WOF, we have a servant team made up of men and women who serve our body by taking care of practical needs for our Sunday and Wednesday ministries. These faithful servants are highly appreciated, though generally unrecognized. Some of them are “Deacons” and some are not, but most of them have the spiritual gifting of “service” (Romans 12:3-8) and employ their gifts on a regular basis in ministry unto their Lord, Jesus Christ (I Peter 4:10-11)!

Those holding the position or office of “Deacon” at WOF are nominated by the body of Christ (in accordance with Acts 6:1-6), screened by the leadership (in accordance with Acts 6:6 and I Timothy 3:10), meet the biblical qualifications for “Deacon” (in accordance with I Timothy 3:8-9 and 12 with consideration of Acts 6:3), tested (in accordance with I Timothy 3:10), and then set apart for the specific office of service in Christ’s ministry (in accordance with Acts 6:6). Needless to say, since this isn’t a popularity contest or a position of power, our “Deacons” are an outstanding group of men who are true servants of Christ and His body, with their role being very simply defined here at WOF as:

Biblically-qualified individuals who serve Christ by ministering to the needs of His body (the local New Testament Church).

This month we are seeking your recommendations for men (Deacons, not Deaconesses) to serve Christ and all of us at WOF in this capacity. Please prayerfully consider the men in our church body whom you find faithful in the light of your knowledge of them and use the Deacon Nomination inserts found in your weekly bulletin to submit your recommendations. All nominations are strictly confidential until each nominee is considered and biblically qualified by the Elders and current Deacons. Then those eligible and agreeing to serve will be publicly presented as DITs . . . Deacons In Training!

Not much is actually known about all the Deacons of the New Testament, but we know of two that started serving in a practical way to meet the needs of Christ’s church in Acts 6. Philip, according to Acts 8:5-8, proclaims the gospel of Jesus Christ in Samaria with great success bringing much rejoicing throughout the community as the Lord affirms his ministry through miraculous manifestations of God’s Holy Spirit. Later, Philip serves in the office of Evangelist, according to Acts 21:8 and trains four daughters in the ways of the Lord, serving His church as “prophetesses.” Then there is Stephen, “a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit” (See Acts 6:3) who, as a minister of Christ, in a very short period of time is called to lay down his life as the first known martyr of Christendom. Deacons … Yes, all for His glory!

— Pastor Frank

OCCUPATION

Posted on April 29, 2022April 29, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

Biblically, the record of agricultural pursuits begins with our Lord’s mandate to humanity in Genesis 2:15:

Then the Lord God took the man and put him into the garden of Eden to cultivate it and keep it.

Adam was charged initially with two responsibilities … 1) cultivating the garden and 2) keeping the garden. In addition, we know that the immediate post-Edenic situation featured both the agricultural and the herdsman way of life as represented by Cain and Abel in Genesis 4:2:

And Abel was a keeper of flocks, but Cain was a tiller of the ground.

Before long came Enoch who built a city in Genesis 4:17, musicians in Genesis 4:21, and Tubal-Cain, a forger of all implements in bronze and iron in Genesis 4:22.

E.K.V. Pearce, in his work, “Who Was Adam?” suggests that this period represents that era known to anthropologists as the “New Stone Age Revolution,” introducing farming and horticulture into human society with archaeological evidence of early farming being found in the lower Jordan River Valley around Jericho. However, there is no biblical evidence demanding a separation of the age of hunter-gatherers and the age of farmers-herdsmen. Apparently, God established the latter at the outset of His creation even though modern day anthropologists, not unsurprisingly, take a contrarian view in opposition to the divine revelation of scripture, holding that the hunter-gatherers had to come first.

It’s also interesting to note that rudimentary agricultural tools, flint sickle and hoe blade, were discovered in the Carmel caves (located on Mt. Carmel of the biblical text in Israel some 20 kilometers from the City of Haifa), which obviously depicts the on-going responsibilities of cultivating and/or keeping/maintaining crops/gardens. Nonetheless, the biblical account indicates that farming was not the prominent profession of Seth and the chosen bloodline . . . Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, all being herdsmen. However, Lot seems to have preferred the settled life of a Jordan Valley farmer according to Genesis 13:10-13:

Lot lifted up his eyes and saw all the Valley of the Jordan, that it was well watered everywhere … like the garden of the Lord, like the land of Egypt as you go to Zoar. So Lot chose for himself all the Valley of the Jordan, … Thus they separated from each other. Abram settled in the land of Canaan, while Lot settled in the cities of the valley, and moved his tents as far as Sodom.

It’s too often said of Adam and Eve that in their pre-sin/pre-fallen state they didn’t or weren’t required to work. While it is absolutely true that they didn’t have to eat bread by the sweat of their face as described in Genesis 4:19, work itself was originally ordained by God Himself for all humanity with God being the initial, leading, ultimate, perfect, and prime example! Accordingly:

Thus the heavens and the earth were completed, and all their hosts. By the seventh day God completed His work which He had done, and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done. Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it He rested from all His work which God had created and made. (see Genesis 2:1-3)

Sounds like God was busy at work, establishing the opportunity to work/labor as a God-ordained task and vehicle of blessing for all human beings. Perhaps that’s why Paul’s address to the Thessalonians is so blunt:

If anyone is not willing to work, then he/she is not to eat, either. For we hear that some among you are leading an undisciplined life, doing no work at all, but acting like busybodies. Now such persons we command and exhort in the Lord Jesus Christ to work in quiet fashion and eat their own bread. But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary of doing good. (See II Thessalonians 3:10-13)

Now Labor Day, when Americans pay tribute to the those in the work force, has come and gone, but that shouldn’t stifle gratitude for our Lord’s marvelous design … work! Let’s be thankful for the opportunities afforded us of gainful employment, always remembering the admonition found in Colossians 3:23-24:

Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.

Therefore, here’s my somewhat difficult challenge for those desiring to be imitators of Christ. Today, will you take a moment and thank God for your job, even if it’s not so perfect and even if you’re totally disgruntled and unfulfilled? You are fulfilling His design and purposes, accomplishing that which can glorify Him and bring blessings to your life. He has placed you right there, right now, so even if you hate it, seek to know Him deeper and more completely in and through your current situation/opportunity!

Think about it, Pastor Frank aka PF

IMMINENT

Posted on April 29, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

I’ve always assumed and been totally convinced, that by now (2014) Christ would have returned to earth and taken His rightful place upon His glorious throne. It was somewhat inconceivable to me that our world would/could survive without Him beyond 1988, or for sure past 2000! However, today, here we are some 14.5 years into a new millennium, and while the signs of the time seem evident, our Lord’s magnificent appearing still lingers. Theologically and biblically speaking, we all know that no living human being actually knows the exact moment of our snatching away (I Thessalonians 4:16-17 – the rapture of His true church) or His imminent return. Unquestionably, in the framework of my former view, I would never see 60 years of age in this realm of my physical existence. Needless to say, while never a “date setter,” I was wrong on both accounts. Christ hasn’t called for His people, and I’m still on earth in this aging/decaying mortal body. Nonetheless, as long as we remain, four things are certain . . . definitely and unmistakably IMMINENT.

Random House Dictionary defines imminent as “likely to occur at any moment” and Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary states, “threatening to occur at any moment.” In consideration of these definitions ask yourself, “What four things are imminent?”

1^st – Aging, often spoken of as the process or processes of accumulating changes over time, is imminent. Obviously one develops recognizable changes like wrinkles, gray hair, bones that grow weary, and diminishing strength. On the other hand, aging is much more than “accumulated change over time” – it’s a spiritual journey! Yes, it is a full-out test of character that brings maturity, and provides understanding to the deeper meanings of life itself in preparation for a face-to-face encounter with one’s Saviour, Jesus Christ! Perhaps new considerations should be given to Romans 8:28-30 and 37-39 in the perspective of “aging” no matter where one may currently be in that on-going process:

And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren; and these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified. But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

2^nd – Death is another imminent event, something threatening, inevitable and ultimately unavoidable. Defined by many as, “the permanent cessation of all vital functions: the end of life,” it actually demands a better explanation. Physical death is not the end of life for believers, but rather the next step in the life of faith which one began through belief in Jesus Christ. While the Bible is abundantly clear — the soul that sins will surely die — it’s appointed unto man once to die — the wages of sin is death, etc., we must remember that the free gift of God is “ETERNAL LIFE” (Romans 6:23)! If physical death is the process by which one enters eternal life, then it is absolutely not the “end of life” nor of one’s existence! Additionally, may one never discount the unambiguous words of Jesus Christ in Matthew 25:46 :

These will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.

Apparently one’s physical death isn’t so final or so dead!

3^rd – The calling forth and snatching away of Christ’s true church (genuine believers) is imminent . . . “likely to occur at any moment!” Not that Christ could (having the ability) or might/may call forth His children, but that it’s extremely likely to occur momentarily as His Bride stands ready to be received by Him upon His indescribable appearing!

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. — I Thessalonians 4:15-18

4^th – The next consideration of those things undeniably imminent is the actual, literal, and physical return of Jesus Christ to the earth as King of Kings and Lord of Lords! Remember, according to Jesus in Matthew 24:36, “of that day and hour no one knows.” Therefore, while one doesn’t know when, one assuredly knows! Christ carefully and clearly reminds us ….

For the coming of the Son of Man will be just like the days of Noah … and they did not understand until the flood came and took them all away; so will the coming of the Son of Man be. –From Matthew 24:36-39

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

Now that I’ve reached the age of 60, I’m even more certain of those things which are imminent, and fully recognize that every moment, every breath, every month and every year has a God-ordained purpose. Even though He should tarry in His return, I will be anxious in nothing – aging, death, or the snatching away, …

But giving thanks in all things and allowing God’s peace to guard my heart and mind. — From Philippians 4:6-7.

I sincerely hope you’ll join me in this faith journey through things imminent!

Blessings from our Lord above to you and yours always.

— Pastor Frank

TRUTH & LIBERTY

Posted on April 29, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

Every year, as July 4th approaches, my heart and my mind turn to the ideals and concepts of social/political freedom as well as those at the root of a believers’ spiritual liberty. While these freedoms are not the same, they are birthed from the same underpinnings, and in fact, social and/or political freedom cannot thrive, or ultimately even survive, without God’s people faithfully living in and experiencing individual spiritual liberty! While some would disagree with that statement, the reality is undeniable … True liberty rests upon the laurels of God’s absolute truth and Christ’s gospel of grace and redemption.

In John 8, one finds Jews that don’t even recognize the bondage they are experiencing, both politically and spiritually. A lack of, shortage of, or denial of truth has resulted in their blindness in both realms. In John 8:31-32, Jesus states:

If you continue in My word, (then) you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.

Their response to His words in John 8:33 are incredibly revealing:

We are Abraham’s descendants and have never yet been enslaved to anyone; how is it that You say, ‘You will become free’?

At that exact moment, their nation was controlled by the Romans! They hadn’t experienced any social/political liberty in hundreds of years and each of them was individually under the spiritual bondage of religion as well to the law of sin and death. Inevitably, the absence of God’s absolute truth breeds contempt for truth itself. Perhaps we all need to be reminded of Christ’s prayer for His followers/disciples/us in John 17:17:

Sanctify them (set them apart from the things of this fleshly/sinful world for a sacred/spiritual use … unto the things that are holy/of God) by the Truth; Your Word is Truth.

Genuine liberty works in an unusual manner. It liberates one from someone or some condition of bondage and offers (liberates one to/unto) new opportunity. You may recall how Moses initially served the Lord by demanding of Pharaoh liberty for God’s people from the bondage of Egyptian slavery. Eventually, they were set free and the Lord offered tremendous liberty, allowing them the opportunity and privilege of following and serving the one true God. Their initial freedom brought a separation from Egypt and all the things of that land and the life they previously lived.

In addition, their liberty uniquely set them apart (sanctified) to be/become God’s people. In John 8, Jesus offered those present liberty from their condition of bondage in much the same manner. Nonetheless, they were so blinded by years of truth drought, that they were unable to even recognize their own spiritual, as well as social/political bondage.

As truth decreases, bondage increases. Ultimately it takes hold of an individual or even a whole society and enslaves him/her/it. At that point, a blindness starts to occur and the truth becomes harder and harder to identify. Simply put, most people would hold that 1+1=2. Is that the truth? In George Orwell’s book/film, “1984,” 2+2 no longer equals 4 … instead, according to the “Party” … 5. Who has/holds the power or right to control truth? In “1984” the “Party” determines truth and tells every citizen what they believe. Therefore, without any absolute, 2+2=5. That’s bondage, but this slavery is not necessarily recognized for what it is! As long as the “Party” continues perpetuating the lies, the people are kept in slavery.

However, according to Jesus Christ, if one continues in His Word, one will know TRUTH and that TRUTH will bring freedom/liberty. The society in “1984” was forever bound-up in darkness until 2+2=4. At that point other freedoms follow — once people know the truth, they are at liberty to leave bondage and free to pursue something else like God’s eternal, immutable truth that will ultimately offer spiritual, as well as social/political liberty. However, if the there is no sincere and diligent quest for/of truth, another form of bondage will encroach.

Galatians 5:1 — It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.

I say all this because difficult times are ahead according to the truth …

II Timothy 4:3-4 — For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths.

I Timothy 4:1-2 — But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons, by means of the hypocrisy of liars seared in their own conscience as with a branding iron.

Now concerning truth, its absence or presence … concerning spiritual liberty, it’s absence or presence, and without too big of a stretch Christ words in Matthew 6:22-23 might be applied to social/political freedom, its absence or presence as well:

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?

Therefore, this is my prayer, please Lord, nothing but truth, light, grace, peace, hope, liberty, and freedom for all who know you, Christ Jesus, as their source of life and godliness! — Pastor Frank

MISSION TRIP 2014 PART II

Posted on April 29, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

Mission Trip 2014 is upon us! Every year, our relatively small congregation accepts the challenge of ministering to literally hundreds of children in the South Texas Valley. We see numerous children and youth make life-changing decisions for Christ, as well as a refreshing work of the Lord in each participant.

For many years, we have stayed on a consistent theme during our Mission Trip VBS ministry, emphasizing what we refer to as “A-B-C.”

One may ask, What’s it all about? A-B-C stands for “ADMIT – BELIEVE – CONFESS”. Our three-day ministry program is uniquely designed for K-5th grade students, whereby each day’s lesson, craft, and memory verse and even the Extreme Scraise Team skits all focus on one of the A-B-C letters.

The idea of the A, ADMIT, brings a focus on biblical truth from Romans 3:23, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” and encourages the children to recognize sin and then admit that they too are indeed sinners in need of forgiveness. This emphasis leads perfectly into verses like Romans 5:8, “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” This step, admitting one’s spiritual condition, is very liberating and really unlocks the closed heart leading to an understanding of God’s grace and genuine love.

The B, BELIEVE, introduces the concept of believing (with knowledge/understanding) in Jesus Christ, God’s one and only (unique) Son as presented in God’s Word. This ties perfectly with scriptural passages like John 3:16 and the truth of New Testament Christianity that one must believe that Jesus Christ, God’s Son, gave up/laid down His life allowing whoever believes in Him to have their sins forgiven and be granted everlasting/eternal life. In John 12:46 Jesus promised, “I have come as Light into the world, so that everyone who believes in me will not remain in darkness.” We sincerely hope and pray that all these children will not continue to live in the spiritual darkness of confusing religion and the mystical practice that is prevalent in much of their culture.

C, CONFESS, clearly establishes the teachings of Romans 10:9-13, “That if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation. For the Scripture says, “WHOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, abounding in riches for all who call on Him; for “WHOEVER WILL CALL ON THE NAME OF THE LORD WILL BE SAVED.”

While some are critical of our plan’s simplicity, it is clearly effective and much easier to communicate than other A-B-C plans for evangelism. The A-B-C plan we employ allows our youth to communicate the gospel with great confidence and also provides a long-lasting witness for every child that is exposed to 3 days of A-B-C. From songs to crafts, from memory verses to teaching, Admit, Believe, and Confess announces the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ and rings aloud the truth of God’s grace and salvation every time it is heard or repeated.

Ultimately each of us must also consider A-B-C and determine if we’ve walked down the gospel path of Admit, Believe and Confess. If not, why not? Isn’t it time to admit that you’re a sinner? Isn’t it time to fully believe in/on Jesus Christ, God’s one and only (unique) Son who surrendered His life to give life? Brothers and sisters, just do it … believe in your heart and openly confess with your mouth, Jesus as Lord … you will not be disappointed!

— His & Yours, Pastor Frank

MOTHER

Posted on April 29, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

Genesis 3:20 declares, “The man called his wife’s name Eve, because she was the mother of all the living.” Two very interesting concepts are uniquely intertwined in this verse. First, we see the name Eve given to the first female of the human race. Second, we learn that this name is given because she is “the mother of all the living.” Previously, she had been called woman (“Ishah” in the Hebrew), as a wife; but now, even before conception, she is called the Life-giver or Life-spring (“chavvah” in the Hebrew) as a mother!

As the human Life-giver, Eve, along with all mothers of all times, is uniquely called by God and blessed by Him in her inimitable position of honor. The degraded position which mothers and/or women occupy in many modern cultures, such as in the middle/far east, principally in countries under intense Mohammedan influence, is absolutely unbiblical and totally erroneous! The false views held by some in western cultures and in liberal socialism that our Bible, and/or Christianity somehow dishonors, debases, or attempts to enslave women is totally unfounded, unacceptable, and illogical when compared to the actual biblical text!

Throughout the O.T., there is plenty of evidence that moms move on a social plane equal to men and enjoy a unique significance. While the roles of male/female may be distinct, neither party is presented as of less importance. Among the Hebrews, mothers occupied a higher position than that enjoyed by women in other nations. While a mother’s duties may have been primarily domestic, she was held in high regard by her family, as well as the entire Hebrew society, with many moms/women occupying leadership positions.

In Exodus 15:20-21, Miriam the prophetess (Aaron’s sister) leads in worship with expressions of praise offered through timbrels and dancing. Judges 4:4-6 reveals that Deborah, a prophetess, (wife of Lappidoth) judged Israel and the “sons of Israel came up to her for judgment.” Later in that chapter, she commands the military leader, Barak, and provides leadership in a battle against Sisera. Biblically/spiritually speaking, her rule was extremely successful because “the land was undisturbed for forty years.” (See Judges 5:31) Undoubtedly the love for family/children was deeply imbedded in the heart of every Hebrew mother/woman — consider the actions of Moses’ mom!

Among the patriarchs, women, especially mothers, occupy a prominent place as well. In Rebekah’s marriage, her mother seems to have had equal voice with her father and Laban, her brother. (See Genesis 24:28, 50-55) In Genesis 28:7, Jacob “obeyed both his father and mother.” Evidently, mom was his chief counselor. I Kings 2:19 states that Solomon rose up to meet his mom, Bathsheba, bowing, and preparing a throne for her at his right hand.

All human life (matchlessly designed and incomparably created in the plans of our omnipotent Creator) would be conceived and developed within, as well as birthed through, God’s Eves (mothers) in fulfillment of His commission to mankind, “be fruitful and multiply!” Not only would all human life spring forth from woman, but she would be chosen to bear God’s Son and birth the one and only Messiah/Redeemer to/for/in our world! In her (mother Eve), and through her descendants, via Abraham, “all the families of the world would be blessed” (see Genesis 18:18, Acts 3:25, Galatians 3:8), and Satan’s head would be ultimately, permanently, and victoriously crushed. (See Genesis 3:15)

Initially, Adam named his “woman” (see Genesis 2:23) in reference to her relationship with him and her gender; however, now she is distinguished by a new name (just as Abram became Abraham in Genesis 17:5 and Sarai became Sarah in Genesis 17:15-16), according to her circumstances, position in life, and God’s enduring, immutable covenant with humanity through her seed and offspring. She now stands as a memorial, a prophetic intimation (hint, inkling, indication), of her importance and the destiny of all her promised descendants.

While Adam’s wife appears to be the mother of death, having participated in condemnation upon all mankind, now, she is called “Eve” … the mother of all the living, preeminently of Christ, and all who live and have life through Him. According to II Timothy 1:9-11:

[He] has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity, but now has been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.

John 1:4 reminds us, “In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men.“

Thus, an entire history was comprised within the folds of a single word. Eve would be mother, and in the early ages of our world continuing generation after generation, preserving among God’s people the promise (covenant) and blessed hope of our Saviour/Redeemer!

When I think of my mom (God’s Eve for me), I’m assuredly grateful for life, nurturing, practical and spiritual training, godly counsel, and the wisdom I received under her wings. Indeed, I certainly regret that by the age of 18, when my parents were taken home to be with the Lord, that I wasn’t fully cognizant of her blessing in my life and wasn’t personally afforded the opportunity to offer her appropriate praise and thanksgiving before she departed.

Nonetheless, few days pass that I don’t thank my God upon every remembrance of her (my dad as well), gratefully rejoicing in the time and experiences I enjoyed with them throughout my childhood and adolescence. Indisputably, I fully recognize that not everyone has a mother whose “children rise up and bless her.” (Proverbs 31:28)

Nevertheless, mom’s position was designed and appointed by God and you’re here right now according to God’s purpose through Eve. So, whether she was lacking in much or extremely awesome, you can still praise God for His impregnable and indestructible blueprint established in/through “Eve … the mother of all the living.“ HE IS INDISPUTABLY WORTHY!

Think about it. — Pastor Frank

FIRST-FRUITS

Posted on April 29, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

The Hebrew people, in acknowledgement of their God, YAHWEH (the one True God), offered the “first-fruits” offerings in gratitude and thankfulness in accordance with His abundant, plentiful provisions. According to Exodus 23:19; Numbers 15:20; 18:12; Deuteronomy 26:2; and Nehemiah 10:35; 10:37, these offerings were to include everything that was produced from their land or that was sustained as a result of the land. Items like grain and fruit were offered in their natural state, while others were prepared for consumption like musk, oil, flour, dough, etc.

You shall bring the very first of the first fruits of your soil into the house of the Lord your God. — Exodus 34:26

The concept of “first-fruits” is also applied figuratively throughout the scriptures as well. In Jeremiah 2:3, Israel is called “re’shith” the “first-fruit” of His harvest in the original Hebrew text. Our New Testament employs the Greek word “aparche” translated “first-fruit” which is applied figuratively to several biblical/theological concepts.

Paul uses this word in Romans 16:5 concerning new believers, “Epaenetus, my beloved, who is the first convert (“aparcheé” — “first-fruit”) to Christ from Asia.” The same is true concerning the household of Stephanas as the first believers from Achaia in I Corinthians 16:15.

In James 1:18 we find a reference to the first generation of Christian believers:

In the exercise of His will He brought us forth by the word of truth, so that we would be a kind of first fruits (aparcheén) among His creatures.

A similar reference is made concerning Christ’s church in Thessalonica …

But we should always give thanks to God for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God has chosen you from the beginning (aparcheén) for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and faith in the truth. — II Thessalonians 2:13

The 144,000 Jewish witnesses raised up to testify concerning Christ’s Gospel in the last days during the tribulation are deemed “first-fruits” in Revelation 14:4-5:

These are the ones who have not been defiled with women, for they have kept themselves chaste. These are the ones who follow the Lamb wherever He goes. These have been purchased from among men as first fruits (aparcheé) to God and to the Lamb. And no lie was found in their mouth; they are blameless.

Consider Romans 8:23:

And not only this, but also we ourselves, having the first fruits (aparcheén) of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body.

In this passage, early Christians are depicted as the “first-fruits” of those that have been blessed and endowed with the unique incomparable gift of God’s Holy Spirit.

These selected verses all represent figurative uses of “first-fruits” in the biblical text. However, one of the most significant utilizations is found in I Corinthians 15:20-25 …

But now Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits (aparcheé) of those who are asleep. For since by a man came death, by a man also came the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all will be made alive. But each in his own order: Christ the first fruits (aparcheé), after that those who are Christ’s at His coming, then comes the end, when He hands over the kingdom to the God and Father, when He has abolished all rule and all authority and power.

Christ is the “first-fruit” of the resurrection! This precise application documents several theological/spiritual truths/perspectives/concepts.

1. There is resurrection of the dead, of which Christ is the first.

2. Just as humanity brought death into the world, Jesus Christ, the man/human being, brings life and resurrection.

3. The declaration “first-fruit” implies, in fact demands, the existence of a coming harvest, a gathering/bringing in of all that’s been produced.

4. While we, as believers are not “first-fruits,” we are part of the guaranteed harvest that follows (which is to come)!

As we quickly approach our Good Friday Communion Service and Resurrection (Easter) Sunday celebration, let us never forget the almost indescribable promise brought by “first-fruit”!

— His & Yours, Pastor Frank