Tag: 1 corinthians

EASTER VS RESURRECTION SUNDAY

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

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How in the world can a word that appears only once in the entire Bible (Acts 12:4 – King James Version only) possibly come to mean so much to so many, filling both Protestant and Catholic churches worldwide with sometimes overflowing crowds once a year? Yet to other believers in Jesus Christ, this same word creates a genuinely troubled spirit when the traditions of this holiday are actually considered and realistically spiritually discerned.

But he who is spiritual appraises all things, yet he himself is appraised by no one. For WHO HAS KNOWN THE MIND OF THE LORD, THAT HE WILL INSTRUCT HIM? But we have the mind of Christ. – 1 Corinthians 2:15-16

Easter was originally a pagan festival honoring Eostre (a Saxon word) of the East, or Estera, a Teutonic goddess of light and the season of spring (Germanic – Ostern or Ostera), which was celebrated annually around the same time of year as the Jewish Passover. To be exact, it occurs at the time of the “vernal equinox”—that one day in our spring when the sun crosses the equator, making the light of day and the darkness of night exactly equal lengths. However, by the eighth century, the name “Easter” had become associated with Christianity, and was used to designate the annual celebration of Christ’s victorious resurrection… which is used—disgracefully, perhaps even sacrilegiously—in most modern-day churches and by most Christians today in our society.

In reality, based upon the New Testament practices of Christ’s Church and that of His early believers, we gather every Sunday morning (or perhaps even at sunset on the Sabbath) in celebration of Christ’s matchless, magnificent resurrection! Every Lord’s Day is Resurrection Sunday. Why then do we reserve our greatest celebration for a single day tied to pagan origins rather than rejoicing weekly in this foundational truth of our faith?

While my intention is not to judge one’s fun family traditions inappropriately, at some point we, as faithful followers of Jesus Christ, are required, perhaps challenged, to reconsider the source, value, and messaging of every cultural tradition that creeps in to secularize our Lord’s churches and infiltrate our own contemporary lifestyles. While none of us has obtained the perfection or the maturity that we have in Christ Jesus, as individuals called to live righteously, we must carefully select what’s allowed and what’s not. This is not a self-righteous platform by which one exalts themselves and in turn judges others, but a personal matter of self-awareness and discipline by which we seek to please the Lord and function in genuine, biblically-based faith!

Therefore do not be partakers with them; for you were formerly darkness, but now you are Light in the Lord; walk as children of Light (for the fruit of the Light consists in all goodness and righteousness and truth), trying to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. – Ephesians 5:7-10

The question each believer must ask is this: Does the celebration of “Easter” with its eggs, bunnies, and spring fertility symbols truly honor the risen Christ? Or does it dilute the power of the resurrection by mingling the sacred with the secular, the pure and holy with the pagan? As Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 2:14, “But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.”

We must exercise spiritual discernment in all things—including our traditions, our celebrations, and the names we attach to the most significant events in our faith. The resurrection of Jesus Christ deserves better than a name borrowed from a pagan goddess. It deserves to be celebrated with clarity, with truth, and with undivided devotion to the One who conquered death and rose victorious from the grave.

Let us not be content with once-a-year enthusiasm that fades by Monday morning. Instead, let us embrace the biblical pattern of weekly celebration, gathering each Lord’s Day to proclaim with joy and heartfelt conviction: “He is risen! He is risen indeed!” This is not legalism; this is love. This is not judgment; this is discernment. This is the call to honor Christ fully, completely, and without compromise.

Just think about it!

Pastor Frank

ABOMINATION

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

This biblical word, which occurs at least 170 times in the scriptures, is not familiar to many New Testament believers, primarily because it is mainly associated with the event known as “the abomination of desolation” during the last days tribulation period (Daniel 11:31, Matthew 24:15, Mark 13:14). However, it has substantial and significant use for those who desire to more fully understand the very nature of our God and our Savior, Christ Jesus.

The dictionary definition of “abomination,” which is typically a noun, reads, “something that causes disgust or hatred,” and was common terminology during the 1800s. Biblically speaking, “abomination” is a powerful term, generally referring to something that is absolutely and unequivocally detestable, and / or profoundly contrary to God’s Holiness. This encompasses willfully ignoring His instructions, participating in idolatry, improper worship, acts of immorality, unethical behavior, and dishonesty. Spiritually and fundamentally “abomination” refers to any practice or attitude that distances individuals from God’s desired purposes and plans, which includes both His Truth and His Love, accompanied by His Holiness, Righteousness and Justice.

There are six things which the Lord hates, yes, seven which are an abomination (Hebrew – ‎tow`ebah; repulsive, even dangerous and destructive, abhorrent) to Him: 1) haughty eyes, 2) a lying tongue, 3) and hands that shed innocent blood, 4) a heart that devises wicked plans, 5) feet that run rapidly to evil, 6) a false witness who utters lies, 7) and one who spreads strife among brothers.    

Proverbs 6:16-19

Be assured, all 7 fall into the same category of being an “abomination” to our Lord, and if that’s the case exactly where do we stand?

HAUGHTY EYES – displaying a proud look, being unkind and irreverent toward others!  See Psalm 101:5, Proverbs 21:4, 30:13

A LYING TONGUE – speaking falsehood, which implies a wrong motive. Vanity, improper ambition, and even cowardice serve as the generators and patrons of lies. A pure heart has no motive for falsehood; however, sadly, there exist social pressures that work to loosen the mind and tongue… such as expectations, and the somewhat confused human need for acceptance and approval! 

See Psalm 31:18, 120:2, Proverbs 12:22, Ephesians 4:25

HANDS THAT SHED INNOCENT BLOOD – heartless cruelty. A lack of understanding for God’s created creatures … inflicting needless pain, incivility, and death upon any human, as well as other life forms!

See Isaiah 1:15, 59:7, Proverbs 28:17, Exodus 20:13

A HEART THAT DEVISES WICKED PLANS – this is vicious scheming. This is birthed from pagan concepts and wicked thoughts / imaginations. These individuals are continuously inventing some form of evil behavior, usually with the intent of damaging others, for satisfying some demented dream, or to fulfill some delusional pleasures! See Genesis 6:5, Proverbs 24:2

FEET THAT RUN RAPIDLY TO EVIL – an eagerness to participate in mischievous sinful / wicked activities / behavior. These have an unrestrained passion / vigilance and a lust to participate in questionable, improper and / or immoral activities.

See Proverbs 1:15-16, Isaiah 59:7, Romans 3:10-18

A FALSE WITNESS WHO UTTERS LIES – a slanderer. Socially attempting to destroy another’s reputation, credibility, or successful good / positive achievements. This ungodly behavior may be motivated by jealousy, a lack of purpose or acceptance, poor training, and / or a desire for some type of social recognition!                                                                                                            

See Proverbs 12:17-18, 19:5, 19:9, 21:28, Matthew 15:19

ONE WHO SPREADS STRIFE (sows discord) AMONG BROTHERS – here lies wicked, evil intentions. Someone who intentionally works to damage, disrupt, destroy, and / or sever relationships, friendships, and / or even quality organizations (like Christ’s True / Believing Church)!

See Proverbs 6:14-15, 16:28, 22:10, 26:20, 2 Timothy 2:23, James 3:6, 14-16

All of these things are an “abomination” to God, who desires exactly the opposite for His people . . . wanting harmony, peace, unity, love and truth to prevail among those of the kingdom even while stationed in this world. The moral hideousness of the world is obvious where these seven evils abound. However, the righteousness and holiness of our Lord clearly emerges when one considers His displeasure / hatred for these things which are 100% foreign to the nature and character of the ONE! TRUE! LIVING GOD! 

While we live in a world set on “abomination,” it is not our responsibility to rid the world of these evils except through the spreading of the Gospel. Therefore, we should individually and corporately, as Christ’s Church body, consider these behaviors totally, unquestionably, and absolutely reprehensible – never to be found or tolerated among us!

“For the devious are an abomination to the Lord; But He is intimate with the upright. The curse of the Lord is on the house of the wicked, but He blesses the dwelling of the righteous.”

Proverbs 3:32-33

Meditate on His Word, day and night and you’ll find an unbelievable escape and freedom from the mindset of those who are perishing. (see 1 Corinthians 1:18-19)

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

Pastor Frank

“WHY FUSION”

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

Technically speaking, the definition of FUSION is the process where two atomic nuclei combine to form a single, heavier nucleus, releasing enormous amounts of energy, which is nuclear fusion. However, the term FUSION has taken on some other meanings, generally referring to a merging or blending of different elements, like in “fusion cuisine” that combines different ethnic foods, or the union or uniting of political concepts, interest groups, or parties.

We named our West Oaks Fellowship monthly newsletter “FUSION” many years ago from the concepts of a merger or blending, because that concept applies to so many areas of our church and a believer’s spiritual life. While the word “FUSION” doesn’t appear in the biblical text, the word fuse is used in a few English translations, referring to things being joined together or united as used by Darby in Job 41:23. Nonetheless, the concept of spiritual union or unions, unity, and oneness, is a central and important biblical concept / theme that’s often emphasized in numerous contexts throughout the scriptures. 

  1. Oneness with our Lord and Father God is a supernatural “FUSION” that Christ Himself prayed for in John 17:20-21 in His High Priestly prayer, as well as for all of us as His followers. Perhaps our oneness should somehow mirror the perfect harmony and unification of the Trinity (God the Father, God the Son, and God, the Holy Spirit). Needless to say, in this process we become more and more like Him!
  2. We “abide” in Christ Jesus according to John 15:1-6. This “FUSION” is essential if one becomes, or hopes to become, a fruit-bearing believer. According to our Lord’s teaching, this intimate connection / joining / uniting of the “TRUE VINE” and branches is the only possible process by which Christians can bear fruit!
  3. The Body of Christ, His CHURCH, according to 1 Corinthians 12:12–13, is a very unique  “FUSION!” All true believers, regardless of their background, ethnicity, or language, are all spiritually baptized by God’s one Holy Spirit into one universal church body. This merging  of diverse members into one spiritually-joined church body illustrates the unity, as well as the interdependence of believers in Christ.
  4. The prophecy of Jeremiah 31:33 presents a beautiful futuristic “FUSION!” “But this is the covenant which I will make with the house of Israel after those days,” declares the Lord, “I will put My law within them and on their heart I will write it; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. “They will not teach again, each man his neighbor and each man his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord,’ for they will all know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them,” declares the Lord, “for I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more.”

In the realm of our bible-based Christian faith, genuine “FUSION” must be absolutely confined to the things / elements of TRUTH! There are many efforts to fuse pagan concepts with the things of the ONE TRUE GOD AND HIS WORD! However, spiritual “FUSION“ emphasizes a profound, transformative, experience of divine nature and character that highlights the powerful interconnecting of believers with the Lord God. This relationship is enjoined by His gracious salvation and then with one another in His Church Body through our shared experiences, ultimately seeking the same purposes in our lives of bringing glory and honor in this life to JESUS CHRIST!

So that’s why we have “FUSION!”

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

PF

BABY BOOMERS

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

Individuals born between 1946 and 1964, during the post-World War II period are classified as the “Baby Boomers.” During this 28 year period there was a significant increase in birth rates, which resulted in a large generation that has profoundly impacted both culture, society and Christ’s Church. The boom was driven by a combination of several factors, including improved economic conditions, declining mortality rates, and changing social norms, which were not unique to the USA.  

HERE ARE SOME FACTS:

  1. The average baby boomer will live to be 84+ years old, with many living much longer.
  2. In the United States Of America, baby boomers control 53% of the wealth.
  3. The average church goer in America is age 60. (See Proverbs 16:31)
  4. Boomers account for 36% of the people present in American churches on Sunday, Gen X is 24%, and the Millennials 19%.

The Baby Boomers have also significantly impacted the ministry and the function of churches in the United States, both positively and negatively, due to their influence, their large numbers, and often changing / shifting preferences and beliefs.

Baby Boomers, generally speaking, desire specific styles / types of music, which sometimes has led to conflict and division within congregations.

Too often, a “What Have You Done For Me Lately?” mentality emerges as the Boomers may focus in on their own needs and preferences, which ultimately can lead to a more consumer-driven approach to church participation, attendance, and financial support. Thus the evolution of the mega-church, declining support for mainline denominational congregations, and the development of smaller churches like WOF where members / participants interact regularly and are viewed as family. Only 10% of America’s 331,000 church congregations have more than 300 members, with most having less than 100. However, 50% of those attending religious services regularly go to the 33,000 large churches where a lesser percentage of the congregation actually serve regularly, in particular, Baby Boomers. The big flashy church with a well known lead pastor is certainly in style. However, 90% of American congregations are small, and the boomers are often finding opportunity to serve on a consistent basis. FYI – 60% of American Church Pastors are currently boomers.

Needless to say, one potential problem that churches will continually face is the declining baby boomer population as they grow progressively older and perhaps face physical limitations.

One thing that should be on every boomer’s mind is the great opportunities they are afforded due to their life experience, additional resources, and available time. While our culture drifts towards exalting young leadership, the fact is that too many Baby Boomers are shelved in today’s church and ministries. Some reasons for that issue is that too often, boomers retire from more than just their profession. Another is that often times, as these individuals grow older, they dropout due to disillusionment, hurts, confusion, and sometimes substitute any number of other activities to replace their participation in ministry and worship. However it’s a proven statistic that the baby boomer generation grows more spiritually and becomes more interested in that realm of life as they grow older. That may have to do with the inevitability of death or just after many various life experiences (good and bad, blessings or difficulties). The boomers surely need church and the church undoubtedly needs them!

Older men are to be temperate, dignified, sensible, sound in faith, in love, in perseverance. Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good, so that they may encourage the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the word of God will not be dishonored.

Titus 2:2-5

Obviously, there is no question about the need of every church ministry to have younger adults participating and serving; however, is there a great amount of potential, wisdom, knowledge, and life-experience not being tapped because the Baby Boomers aren’t being asked to serve or they aren’t willing to serve? I certainly hope that’s not true at WOF. So if you are a boomer, please step up and be used by our Lord to help the ministry and your younger brothers and sisters in Christ.

As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. Whoever speaks, is to do so as one who is speaking the utterances of God; whoever serves is to do so as one who is serving by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

1 Peter 4:10-11

Unless for some reason a person is physically unable to serve, there is a place … should be a place for each and everyone to faithfully serve in Christ’s New Testament Church!

But now there are many members, but one body. And the eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you”; or again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.”

1 Corinthians 12:20-21

1 Corinthians 12:27

Now you are Christ’s body, and individually members of it.

Please, please never forget that!

Right now (later is too late), I’m officially inviting all our “Baby Boomers” to step up along with all other adults, and even some of our youth who should be serving.

We need to gear up and there are plenty of places that need your help, starting with our AWANA Kid’s Club which is currently being completely overhauled, our Children’s ministry which is bringing in new curriculum for teaching and training our awesome kids, and our youth ministry which could use some additional assistance as well. If not now, when?

His & Yours always, because of GRACE                                                               

(God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense)

Pastor Frank 

MERITOCRACY

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

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

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

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

TRAGIC!

Romans 6:23 speaks distinctly, 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Proverbs 14:23

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

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

THINK ABOUT IT!

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

Pastor Frank

APOSTLE PAUL

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

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

Philippians 1:9-11

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pastor Frank

A CHALLENGE FROM PASTOR FRANK

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CHALLENGE #2 – Be SPIRITUALLY FULFILLED IN 2025!

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

CHALLENGE #3 – LIVE BY FAITH IN 2025!

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

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

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

His & Yours, because of GRACE

(God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense)

-PF

        

ONE BODY

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

In June of 1985, 12 young people (mostly early 30’s or younger) sat in a living room, all pretty hurt and confused by the situations at our church, and reluctantly decided it would be best to form a new church. At that moment, we had hoped to be an outreach mission of our former church, and had no idea we wouldn’t be a member of the Southern Baptist denomination.

As things evolved, neither of those falsely presumed opportunities played out, which kind of left us hanging out on a limb.

We all knew the scriptures pretty well, and fully understood that the Baptist Church we were involved in wasn’t operating scripturally, but on the other hand, due to our Baptist heritage, had no real idea about being an independent, New Testament-based body of believers.

That reality forced us to dive deeper into God’s Word / Truth, longing for clarification and understanding to answer the question, “What is a New Testament Church and how should it operate?” We wrote letters to many churches (this was way before easy access web pages) asking them to share their doctrinal and organizational documents. In addition, for the next six months, mainly on Wednesday nights and Sunday evenings, we studied the biblical text alongside the documents provided by other ministries. We even actually discouraged other people from coming, stating that we didn’t know … have a clue … what we were going to do, and what the forming of a biblically-based New Testament Church actually looked like, and we certainly had no vision of becoming multi-ethnic as we are today!

We learned:

  • Sharing / Speaking the Truth (God’s Word) in Love should be at the very foundation of the new ministry.

Ephesians 4:14-16

  • That people, by considering the ministry of Jesus Christ, were more important than programs.

1 Corinthians 12:14-19

  • That we needed proper, biblically-qualified and spiritual leadership to serve Christ’s Church in biblically-defined roles.

Titus 1:6-9; 1 Timothy 3:1-7; 1 Timothy 3:8-13; 1 Peter 4:10-11

  • That the praise and worship of Jesus Christ, combined with ministry to / for one another, was absolutely essential, even though it was quite difficult to find a functioning scriptural model for us to emulate.

Psalm 34:1-3; Romans 12:10-13; Romans 12:15-16; Romans 15:7-8; Philippians 2:1-4; James 5:16

Needless to say, over the last 39 years, it has been difficult to stay focused and remain on path, and I have failed time and time again to keep things moving in the right direction. As I look back, perhaps the hardest years were those that hopefully have just passed – with the COVID issues, along with people leaving and, completely contrary to the scriptures (Hebrews 10:23-25), deciding that being connected to and active in a church body (attending worship services and fellowship opportunities) is not important … devaluing some of the very reasons Christ established His Church. It’s truly heartbreaking to see individuals become less and less connected, eventually just removing themselves from being a vital part of the body’s function, which actually causes every other member of the body to suffer and struggle a little.

Certainly, our church body is not perfect, nor are the humans (all of us, including the ministerial staff) perfect, but that doesn’t excuse or exempt us from attempting to function according to Christ’s design as a legitimate New Testament Church, founded and operating on that foundation without reference to various forms of denominationalism and / or religion.

Therefore, I really, genuinely need and fully appreciate your prayers and faithful support. WOF must maintain its course! To do that we must uphold, as absolutely essential, the parameters originally established at our inception, while embracing the need for reaching and training faithful individuals who are committed to growing in Christ, and whole-heartedly yielding (no matter what our world says or promotes), respecting and honoring the adherence to biblically-qualified leadership who will sacrificially serve Christ and His church.

Over the last couple of years, months, and even weeks, our Lord has brought new believers into our body, which is really encouraging. With that in mind and the opportunity that presents, we must as “one body” move forward once again (in year 39) in complete, unhesitant, and over-flowing response to Christ’s imperative command of making disciples (and disciple makers) from His declaration in Matthew 28:19-20!

I’m all in, even in my old age! How about you?

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

PF

THE HAMAS (RELIGIOUS/POLITICAL) CULT

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

How is it that Hamas protesters (hiding under the concept of being pro-Palestine), some now rioters, can openly / publicly chant, “From the river to the sea,” “death to Israel / death to America,” “we are Hamas” and / or “intifada” and at the same time, in the same breath, accuse the IDF (Israeli Defense Force) of genocide? Those very mantras promote, and are undoubtedly, inexplicably, declaring the complete elimination / annihilation of an entire people group from the face of the earth! That, in essence, ties in perfectly with the ideology of Hitler and his Third Reich (within its first 6 years issued 400 legal restrictions against Jews with them ultimately becoming “Enemies of the State” – nationalizing their businesses, confiscating their assets / property, encampment, and promoting their total elimination) which exalts the value of one people group (Aryans) as superior to all others (instigating Aryanization and the “popular anger” movement within Germany), while discounting and eradicating the value of one group to being useless (Jews), therefore not even worthy of life itself (The Holocaust)!

As believers in Christ Jesus, we recognize the value of human life, holding, that according to the scriptures, all humans are created in the image and likeness of the Creator (see Genesis 1:27) and that life is viewed as precious (see Psalm 139:13-16)! Job 12:10 asks, “In whose hand is the life of every living thing, and the breath of all mankind?”

Humanity is not some cosmic accident, as many who desire to live unaccountable lives promote and encourage others to believe, but instead is the product of a carefully executed creation by a perfect, holy, sovereign, and eternal superior being … God. Human dignity is therefore derived directly from God Himself, with individuals being finite, dependent creatures who have been assigned a high value / worth by their own Creator (enough value for Christ Jesus to suffer in accordance with the consequences of humanity’s sin and offer then full and complete restoration – see John 3:16-17).

The current pro-Hamas / anti-Israel students and professional demonstrators / students and non-student imported protestors are now using the phrase “Free Gaza / Free Palestine.” (I guess they all must have skipped out on their modern-day history classes.)  In the January 2006 Palestinian legislative election, Hamas defeated the ruling Fatah (political party) by winning 74 of 132 seats. Since that time, there have been no (yes, “zero”) free elections in the Hamas-controlled Gaza. Then in 2007, a presidential decree was issued abolishing all legislative seats that were not in agreement with Hamas’ leadership / ideology. While the western media reports that 70-72% of the Palestinians currently support the Hamas regime, there is no credible evidence to document that figure and no consideration of any potential/possible persecution “fear factor” incorporated within that questionable statistic.

Do the current American pro-Hamas protestors even understand the core values of Hamas? If they did, their public outcries would most likely be drawn back in deep silence.  Is anyone even asking, “What’s the role of women within the framework of the Hamas religious / political cult society?”

Women make up approximately 50% of the population in Gaza, but have very limited influence, and their basic individual rights are systematically denied. The women’s importance is that they, “manufacture men (Hamas warriors), and play a great role educating and guiding the (new) generation.” There remains widespread discrimination, contrary to Hamas’s public statements, along with extremely limited employment opportunities, and virtually no pathways to financial independence. Female abuse is rampant, adultery laws are codified according to gender, divorcees must pay their husbands to get out of a marriage, but the men can divorce their wife cost-free for any reason, and in Hamas controlled Gaza, a woman’s testimony is only worth half (½) of a male’s.  In addition, Hamas engages a “Modesty Police,” which is empowered to enforce a “Code Of Modesty” upon the women of Gaza, severely restricting basic freedoms of movement and expression. Hijah (Islamic head coverings) should be worn while in schools, at courthouses, and on beaches. This code also prohibits the riding of motorcycles, learning to drive without the presence of a man, using a male hairdresser, submitting an incest complaint, and / or even engaging in some sporting / athletic events. In 2013 a UNRWA (United Nations Relief And Works Agency For Palestine) Marathon was cancelled due to the Hamas “Code Of Modesty.”

Hamas’ ideology combines nationalism and the political Islamism of the Muslim Brotherhood. In terms of the religion, they are Salafist, which means they adhere to Islamic Sharia law and believe that a Palestinian state should be governed in that manner.  However, within the framework of that religious system, Hamas attempts to achieve its political ambitions by combining social mobilization, political organization / negotiation, and the use of severe violence. Therefore, they should be considered a jihadist group given that it does not rule out violence as a political strategy to further or obtain its objective. It’s a religious cult whose “modus operandi” merits the use of extreme violence, in numerous /various forms, as means to accompany political bargaining. Therefore, it can and does, spiritually, morally, and ethically, justify carrying out grotesque terrorist actions against civilians (even slaughtering babies and raping children) and even a country’s military, such as the massacre launched on October 7, 2023 during the Re’im Music Festival in Israel.

It’s not difficult to see how genuine believers, true followers of Christ and the doctrines / theology of the New Testament find great conflict with any support for Hamas, its activities, and its ideology.  While certainly a person can be / should be concerned with the loss of life of life caused by war … Hamas’ ongoing war with Israel, is no different. Don’t forget, war is all about destroying things and killing / disabling an enemy. However, current social media and some regular media sources are referring to Israel’s retaliatory actions as a disproportionate response and genocide. Undocumented sources claim 30,000+ have died in Gaza — about 18,000 is actually more accurate, and yes that’s a lot of individuals! However, Hamas doesn’t value human life as committed Christians do and even other cultures / societies — that’s why they are willing to use brain-washed children and women as human shields for their soldiers and military stronghold if that action achieves their objectives!  Therefore, it is impossible to attack Hamas’ military without inflicting civilian casualties (as is the case in most armed conflicts). The real victims in Gaza are the civilians who are being used / sacrificed in a ludicrous / preposterous manner by their own “elected” government! 

Remember, Cain of Genesis? He was a violent human being. Humanity is still violent… while at times historically, we see the decrease and increase of wars and violence … currently our world is in a season of escalated violence and war. Jesus Christ, while visiting earth, warned us concerning these days … “For nation (people group) will rise against nation (people group), and kingdom against kingdom, and in various places there will be famines and earthquakes. But all these things are merely the beginning of birth pangs.” (See Matthew 24:7-8, Mark 13:8, Luke 21:10-11) “Nation against nation, kingdom against kingdom” is simply an idiom for war in and around the world or perhaps even world war … a global conflict that is signaling the approaching end of this current age. The “birth pangs” will continue and, of course grow more frequent. Deception and division in both society and the church will increase, which we clearly see and are encountering, but our Lord Jesus spoke this to His disciples / followers as well, “See to it that no one misleads you. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will mislead many.  You will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not frightened, for those things must take place, but that is not yet the end. (See Matthew 24:4-6)

What we are currently witnessing / experiencing on our college campuses, in the Middle East, with Ukraine and Russia, and even on our own borders, should not be unexpected, but anticipated. The consummation of the ages is coming and these type of issues and conflicts will certainly arise!

What then shall we do? How then should we live?

Encourage one another, don’t grow weary in doing good, stay connected to your church (too many are disconnected), and remember to pray for the peace of Jerusalem which will only be ratified when our Lord, Jesus Christ sits upon His throne, ruling and reigning in righteousness! (see 1 Thessalonians 5:11, 2 Thessalonians 3:13, Ephesians 2:10, Hebrews 10:24-25, Psalm 122:6, 1 Corinthians 15:24-25, Revelation 11:15)

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

–PF

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