1 timothy

PASTOR APPRECIATION MONTH/DAY

Posted on February 12, 2026 by West Oaks Fellowship

As many of you may know, October has been designated as Pastor Appreciation month with the second Sunday of October being the official day. Many have asked me about this, and this year I regretfully caused a little conflict with our great AWANA ministry and leaders concerning this concept, which I will explain below.

This whole thing is a man-made, but not necessarily wrong scripturally, providing an opportunity to honor pastors and clergy.

The elders who rule well are to be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching.

1 Timothy 5:17

PAM/D was originally started by Dr, London, in cooperation with James Dobson (his Nazarene Pastor cousin) and “Focus On The Family” some time ago. However, in 1992, guess who got on board? Hallmark Cards! Surprise, Surprise! Greater than 65% of American churches now use this designated Sunday, the second Sunday of October, to honor their Pastors and sometimes ministerial staff, this year occurring on October 12.

In my former church, Westheimer Baptist (which became First Baptist West Houston), I was the Associate Pastor, The Minister Of Discipleship & Evangelism, and later became the pastor charged with Relocation & Development. Our Sr. Pastor loved the idea of this recognition and a Sunday being set aside for Pastor Appreciation Day. He made sure it happened in our church . . . and I was responsible to make sure it happened at the standard he expected . . . which it did while I served that church. The last one I organized in October of 1984 provided a brand-new Oldsmobile 98 for him to drive.

Needless to say, that experience, along with many other ones at Westheimer Baptist, taught me a lot of lessons . . . some really good – and many to avoid! While I am deeply grateful for my opportunity to serve that church ministry and the Senior Pastor, whom I truly loved and honored, I had to resign when I could no longer in good conscience / right spirit / with integrity to my Lord and that Body of Christ, faithfully submit to him in genuine obedience, under his authority.

Now, onto the issue at hand. Once again, there is nothing doctrinally or biblically wrong with Pastor Appreciation Day or Month. Nonetheless, I personally am not going to promote it, or cause it to happen at WOF. I believe that’s extremely self-serving and egotistical, perhaps even arrogant to elevate myself in such a manner. Biblical pastors are servant leaders, not men that demand a pedestal or recognition! In addition, with that consideration, I’m not allowing our paid support staff or ministry staff, those whom I serve with or those under my charge, to promote Pastor Appreciation Day / Month because it might appear that it is coming from me, and it has not been authorized or agreed upon / approved by our church Elders.

“For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”

Luke 14:11 & Matthew 23:12

If you have been foolish in exalting yourself or if you have plotted evil, put your hand on your mouth.

Proverbs 30:32

The Lord God has always been opposed to proud according to James 4:6!

In the past, on two different occasions I have spoken with our Elders concerning PAD/M, because, if it is something that should be considered and accomplished, then we should actively endorse and embrace it without me, Pastor Jacob, or Tammy being the catalyst that stirs the pot or makes it happen. Therefore, if the Elders were to approve of the concept for the future ministry of WOF and its ministers, then it would be authorized by them and the event / day / month itself could / should realistically be a grassroots occasion birthed from the heart of the Lord’s people . . . not me pushing it! You’ve probably all heard me tell the story about this pastor from the late 1800’s who went to the train station every morning to watch the trains simply because that’s the only thing he knew of that moved without him having to push it!

In October 2020, I was presented with an awesome shield with meaningful words of gratitude and scripture displayed on it which is proudly exhibited in my office. What a blessing! When I turned 70, I was unexpectedly honored once again with a fabulous briefcase as a nice gift from our Deacons. Recently, Van and Nancy (who know me pretty well) gave me an incredible, very unique desk pen that shares a prominent place on my desk, right beside another pen set that was given to given me some time ago, along with one presented by my former church on “Staff Appreciation Day” 1984. This year someone got me a PAD/M card that about 15 people or so from our church signed and wrote encouraging notes in, which I truly prize. In addition, the AWANA kids gave me a big card with some notes attached. THANK YOU!

So, one might ask, “Where do we go from this point forward?” Good question! Is PAD/M wrong or evil? Certainly not – if framed in the right spiritual perspective. Is it biblical? Maybe, though not clearly identified as an essential in anyway whatsoever. Therein lies my (mental, emotional and spiritual) struggle. At WOF, everything we set out to accomplish like Games & Treats, Go Texan Day, our July 4^th Event and Thanksgiving Luncheon, etc. is currently, or has been previously, approved (perhaps many, many years ago) and sanctioned by our Elders. While I am an Elder, also serving in the capacity the Lead Pastor of WOF, once again, as previously stated, I am not going to force the concept of PAD/M upon our leadership or our congregation, even though I believe it may / could have some intrinsic value. However, needless to say, it should not be a half-hearted attempt at something that “has to been done” or done by rote “just because!”

As a proper example, we publicly recognized Pastor Jacob, during a Sunday morning worship service on his 10^th anniversary of serving / ministering at WOF. He didn’t seek this recognition, nor imply it was due him. Nevertheless, I was the driving force that made that occasion happen because I longed to honor him and express my gratitude by providing a nice present for him to display, along with, in my opinion, a substantial monetary gift.

Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it.

Proverbs 3:27

Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor.

Romans 13:7

The deepest desire I have in writing this article is to share my thoughts on this subject, and help our church fully understand the position I hold, while hoping to move forward into the future with clarity. One certainly does not have to agree with me, because this is not a doctrinal issue in my opinion; however, I desire unity in our church and always hope to disarm anything that causes confusion or division / discord. I would also truly appreciate any feedback or considerations you may have to offer on this topic.

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

“LAW”

Posted on May 30, 2025 by West Oaks Fellowship

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

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

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

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

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

#1 “Jesus is Lord.”

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

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

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

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

“Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people.”
Proverbs 14:34

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness.”
1 John 3:4, Matthew 24:12-13

Christ speaking to the disciples about the end times

“Because lawlessness is increased, most people’s love will grow cold.”
Matthew 24:12

“But we know that the Law is good, if one uses it lawfully, realizing the fact that law is not made for a righteous person, but for those who are lawless and rebellious, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers and immoral men and homosexuals and kidnappers and liars and perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound teaching, according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, with which I have been entrusted.”
1 Timothy 1:8-11

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

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

“The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom, and his tongue speaks justice. The law of his God is in his heart; his steps do not slip.”
Psalm 37:30-31

Please Lord!

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

-PF

ONE BODY

Posted on May 30, 2025May 30, 2025 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)

GRATITUDE

Posted on November 14, 2022November 18, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

Consider this … Is it happy people who become grateful, or grateful people who become happy? While happiness is certainly not the ultimate goal or overall objective of one’s Christian life, it does seem to be a prominent issue / desire in the life of many believers.

One of the most important aspects of a growing / maturing man or woman of God, is to learn the significance of gratitude and then value it enough to fully embrace it!

Then one may question … For what should I be grateful? For what should I express gratitude? In our society, we tend to eagerly criticize situations we find ourselves in, negative circumstances that might impact our lives, other people, and perhaps even ourselves! This perspective of life works to deconstruct gratitude and erect barriers that prevent one from gratefulness as an everyday attribute for life and godliness.

Once one realizes that good comes to believers through gracious and merciful acts from sources outside of ourselves, then genuine gratitude can be conceived and birthed.

1 Timothy 4:4-5 – For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with gratitude; for it is sanctified by means of the word of God and prayer.

2 Corinthians 4:15 – For all things are for your sakes, so that the grace which is spreading to more and more people may cause the giving of thanks (gratitude) to abound to the glory of God.

Colossians 3:17 – Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks (the result of being grateful) through Him (Christ Jesus, your Messiah) to God the Father.

Colossians 2:6-7 – 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.

The concept of “overflowing with gratitude” is our Lord’s intention for all His people. Believers are created, in Christ, to be people of gratitude, a thankful people, continually celebrating His boundless purposes and incredible handiwork!

Now, if one can find no other reason for a spirit of personal, everyday gratitude, then dwell on this good that comes totally from a source outside of one’s self!

Hebrews 12:28-29 – Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe; for our God is a consuming fire.

Is your gratitude showing? If not, why not?

Evangelist Billy Graham stated,

“Everything we have comes from (God’s) hands; even if we worked for it or earned it, He still gave us the ability and the opportunity to do it.”

Don’t just think about,

His & Yours, Pastor Frank

CONTENTMENT

Posted on May 10, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

American cartoonist, Doug Larson once stated:

The world is full of people looking for spectacular happiness while they snub contentment.

Sad to admit, but this may hold true for those fully embedded in Westernized/Americanized Christianity as well. English Christian apologist, writer, and philosopher, Gilbert K. Chesterton (1874 –1936) who said,

Christianity has not been tried and found wanting; it has been found difficult and not tried.

He also made this comment:

True contentment is a thing as active as agriculture. It is the power of getting out of any situation all that there is in it. It is arduous and it is rare.

Perhaps one with that understanding and experience can copiously grasp and fully comprehend I Timothy 6:6-8:

But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either. If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content.

These verses demand believers to take notice, evaluate, and practically, as well as philosophically implement. “With these” … with what? … “we (believers) shall be content!”

Contextually speaking, one finds this admonition buried in a dissertation from the Apostle Paul to his “son in the faith,” young Pastor Timothy, concerning false teachers in Ephesus. They possessed and demonstrated inflated egos, they understood nothing, stirred up controversies and were teaching false doctrine as well as the theory that becoming a Christian was an ideal step and/or means to financial gain. (See Ephesians 6:3-5) By using the words “godliness” and “gain,” Paul shifts the concept from erroneous to truthful. Being godly does not guarantee financial gain; however, godliness in itself is tremendous gain when accompanied or joined together with the spiritual attribute of contentment.

The word contentment, as used in the above-referenced passage, is derived from the Greek word “autarkeia” which means to have satisfaction or competency–the exact opposite meaning of that found in the lyrics of a popular 1965 tune by the Rolling Stones from their “Out Of Our Heads” album. Is it possible for humanity to find true satisfaction and/or contentment from/through any activity, experience, or possession? The Stones were obviously convinced, even though that philosophy didn’t seem to stop them from trying to find it through the exact same experiences they so meticulously critiqued.

Paul’s instruction to Pastor Tim provides encouragement for all faithful followers of Jesus Christ to simply, commendably, and meritoriously “be content” (See I Timothy 6:8)! At first glance, this appears to be an external (perhaps emotional) expression of “satisfaction” or “contentment.” However, through spiritually-minded philosophical reflection, this radical demand becomes a stalwart admonition for the Lord’s true disciples.

This instruction works perfectly in conjunction and congruent with Hebrews 13:5-6,

Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, ‘I WILL NEVER DESERT YOU, NOR WILL I EVER FORSAKE YOU,’ so that we confidently say, ‘THE LORD IS MY HELPER, I WILL NOT BE AFRAID. WHAT WILL MAN DO TO ME?’

In essence, is what one has (in Christ, and as a faithful follower of Christ–recognizing His provision) enough?

All of You is more than enough for all of me
For every thirst and every need
You satisfy me with Your love
And all I have in You is more than enough

— From Enough by Chris Tomlin

Really! Is one fully satisfied–content in Christ and His provision? Perhaps one’s life answers more clearly than the words one sings. Are hearts shaped in such a way that one longs for the things of God, but never finds complete satisfaction and contentment?

Is Jesus really enough?

Does one require outside elements (sometimes even selected with great discretion) to be mixed into one’s Christian faith in order to raise contentment and satisfaction levels? The previously mentioned 60’s rock song declares, “I can’t get no satisfaction.” How many individuals who call themselves Christians have come to that same conclusion and look for something other than God’s Truth, God’s call, and God’s purposes to fill their lives with meaning and purpose? These souls often say things like, “Well I tried the religious thing, just didn’t work for me” or “I formerly believed all that stuff, but I’ve moved on … gave it up, etc.” Obviously, there was an extreme lack of contentment and satisfaction. Perhaps that was even coupled with some unfulfilled and/or even improper expectations? Consider Philippians 4:11-13:

Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.

Now, there’s some contentment! In all reality, isn’t the Lord asking all of us to move into a similar position? However, this all begins by accepting our Lord’s call to godliness, not gain!

Over almost 40 years of ministry, I’ve learned that people who are satisfied and content with the Lord’s provision live freer lives, enjoy what they have, and give much more to the Lord’s work than those who are without contentment. Why? Because as they continually surrender to Christ-likeness, they live godly and according to scripture. That’s an incredible “means to great gain when accompanied by contentment.”

Perhaps this year’s Thanksgiving celebrations (and even the entire holiday season) should become focused on contentment and satisfaction offered to believers through our relationship with Jesus Christ. Isn’t it time to set aside childish things and grow on up into “contentment?” Godliness and satisfaction are actually twins!

Now, don’t just think about it!

–Pastor Frank

GIVING THANKS

Posted on May 3, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

God’s people have always been unique in expressions of giving thanks to the Lord for His blessings and provisions. Throughout history (His story), those that acknowledge the one true God have engaged in spiritually-based celebrations and festivities that both publicly, as well as privately, express collective and personal gratitude.

Be glad in the Lord, you righteous ones, and give thanks to His holy name. –Psalm 97:12

In some nations/people groups “giving thanks” events are deeply imbedded in the culture, as demonstrated in the Hebrew faith and those whose initial values and laws stem from a belief and/or subjection to a divine being.

These things I remember and I pour out my soul within me. For I used to go along with the throng and lead them in procession to the house of God, with the voice of joy and thanksgiving, a multitude keeping festival. –Psalm 42:4

As we approach the American Holiday (created from the words for holy (halig) and day (daeg) from the 14th century) of Thanksgiving, perhaps we could/should re-think the whole concept. Are we giving thanks to the Lord based on our material blessings, or is our thanksgiving motivated by the Lord’s character and the spiritual blessing of being in Christ as His own possession?

In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation—having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of God’s own possession, to the praise of His glory. –Ephesians 1:13-14

A few weeks ago, I asked some young people why they needed to go to college. The answers were not surprising or shocking, considering the materialistic influences that currently exist in our modern culture. Generally their responses focused on having a comfortable life style, a good job, and making enough money to enjoy a life of affluence and abundance. That life included concepts of what some would call the “American Dream” … a nice house, cool car, fashionable clothes, kids, comfortable lifestyle, etc. While I’m not sure when the “American Dream” started evolving into a materialistic-based quest, certainly that was not its original prize.

Although material gain may be the fruit or positive by-product of freedom and capitalism, how dare we refer to it as the “American Dream?” Have we undergone a metamorphosis from spiritually-based moral values and the principles of individual freedom into collective hedonistic greed? Assuredly, when people are more concerned with the attainment of things than with the maintenance and continuation of ethics, truth, morals, righteousness, and freedom, it’s a sure sign of moral decadence/spiritual decomposition.

Perhaps this crumbling decay begins when the focus of “giving thanks” shifts from an appreciation and gratitude for God, His character, His holiness, His attributes, grace, mercy, love, etc. to the benefits and blessings of His abundant provisions. Without question, the Lord God lavishes His goodness upon His people, but is that the foundation, motivation, and source for our “giving thanks” and expressions of gratitude? Don’t get me wrong, undoubtedly we should offer thanksgiving for all our material blessings, but isn’t there much, much more that demands an appreciative response?

Consider Psalm 7:17 where thanksgiving is offered because of God’s righteousness:

I will give thanks to the Lord according to His righteousness and will sing praise to the name of the Lord Most High.

In I Chronicles 16:34 God’s goodness and lovingkindness is the cause for giving thanks:

O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; For His lovingkindness is everlasting.

Daniel 2:23 offers an interesting perspective … the prophet is thankful because of God’s provision … wisdom, might, and answered prayer:

To You, O God of my fathers, I give thanks and praise, for You have given me wisdom and power; Even now You have made known to me what we requested of You, for You have made known to us the king’s matter.

The psalmist in 107:8 establishes an opportunity for thanksgiving because of His works among humanity:

Let them give thanks to the Lord for His lovingkindness, and for His wonders to the sons of men!

In the New Testament, I Corinthians 15:57 offers similar insight, focusing on the spiritual aspects of our Lord’s work rather than one’s abundance or excess of material blessing:

But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory (over the power of sin, the law, and death … which includes our worldly/fleshly passions) through our Lord Jesus Christ!

Isn’t it time for true believers to reverse the trend of thanksgiving being offered upon valuations of possessions and wealth, comfort, or even health? Should we humbly give thanks for these things? Without question! Wealth and assets aren’t evil, just like forks and spoons don’t make gluttons and guns don’t kill people. It’s the greed, covetousness, and love of money that’s the root of all sorts of evil. (See I Tim. 6:10) Remember:

The covetous are never satisfied with money, nor the lovers of wealth with their gain; so this too is vanity.(Ecclesiastes 5:9)

May we never forget the scriptural warnings in Luke 12:15, Ephesians 5:3-5, and Colossians 3:5 – all address this issue for Christ’s church.

Together as individuals and His people collectively, let us be compelled to spiritually, mentally, and emotionally (in the flesh) embrace the words of the psalmist:

Direct my heart toward your testimonies and away from gain.

Perhaps from this assessment will burst untainted, spiritually-birthed thanksgiving that’s pleasing to our Lord and provider, Jesus Christ.

Think about it, then ask Him about it! –Pastor Frank

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

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 I

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

As you’re reading this article, we have only 20 weeks (or less, depending on delivery date) to prepare for Mission Trip 2014. While this annual event is a huge undertaking for a ministry our size and arduous to plan and administer, every year we see untold blessings beyond anything that can be measured, valued, or even imagined from a human view-point/perspective.

Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.
— Ephesians 3:20-21

Similar to last year, we’ve been invited to Lyford/Sebastian, Texas by the superintendent of schools (a faithful believer) with the full endorsement of the community, local school board, and administration/personnel. Praise be to God for the way He continually opens doors and provides unique opportunities for all those willing to accept the challenge of boldly and sacrificially serving Him without consideration of their own personal comfort, blessing, and/or benefit (in many cases, even the loss of income for our independent contractors and small business owners).

For the love of Christ controls (urges/compels – presses on us from all sides, holding us to one end and prohibiting us from considering any other, wrapping itself around us in tenderness, giving us an impelling motive) us, having concluded this, that one died for all, therefore all died; and He died for all, so that they who live might no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf.
— II Corinthians 5:14-15

For not one of us lives for himself, and not one dies for himself; for if we live, we live for the Lord, or if we die, we die for the Lord; therefore whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s.
— Romans 14:7-8

Last year, our first time in Lyford/Sebastian, was a great success with attendance far above expectations and many decisions for Christ. In addition, everyone in the area was delighted with our ministry, as well as our friendly, encouraging, exciting, yet non-compromising, distinctively evangelical outreach to the children and youth in the community. As in former locations (other South Texas communities where we’ve ministered to children and youth), we worked diligently to establish a good reputation with the local businesses, all community leaders, and the parents of the children who participated in our community-wide VBS ministry.

Likewise urge the young men to be sensible; in all things show yourself to be an example of good deeds, with purity in doctrine, dignified, sound in speech which is beyond reproach, so that the opponent will be put to shame, having nothing bad to say about us.
— Titus 2:6-8

Generally, our goals remain the same (listed below), however, this year we will need even more involvement from those at WOF who cannot come and the active participation of our teenagers’ parents as we prepare them for this year’s mission. I’m praying that whether one goes or not, it’s still your mission trip … that everyone at WOF has a part in this incredible undertaking. Certainly prayer is always at the top of the list, along with significant financial support/scholarships/donations and fundraising efforts/ideas are absolutely essential and greatly appreciated. However, this year we will be asking for your help, from time-to-time, in many ways.

Now, brethren, we wish to make known to you the grace of God which has been given in the churches of Macedonia, that in a great ordeal of affliction their abundance of joy and their deep poverty overflowed in the wealth of their liberality. For I testify that according to their ability, and beyond their ability, they gave of their own accord, begging us with much urging for the favor of participation in the support of the saints, and this, not as we had expected, but they first gave themselves to the Lord and to us by the will of God.
— II Corinthians 8:1-6

– MISSION TRIP 2014 – OUR PURPOSE –

Introduce children & youth to Jesus Christ! We strategically plan to provide every child with an opportunity to experience Christ’s love, coming to know forgiveness of sin and salvation that He alone offers. See I Timothy 2:3-7

Provide opportunity for WOF’s youth and young adults, as well as those from other churches, to participate in a meaningful, life-changing ministry event where they are the Lord’s primary ministers/servants. See I Timothy 4:12

Assist other churches/ministries in their efforts to reach a community with Christ’s message of grace and forgiveness. See Romans 16:1-2

Provide a unique opportunity for WOF youth to serve and minister alongside youth from other churches/ministries. See Psalm 33:1

See the purposes of God accomplished as both youth and adult believers work together in unity. See John 17:22-23

Lyford/Sebastian, Texas is a field white unto harvest. May we lift up our eyes and look … seeing the opportunity afforded us as a church/ministry.

See John 4:35

In Luke 10:2-3, Jesus said to His disciples:

The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore beseech the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.

Perhaps He is speaking to us as well! Certainly we understand this individually in our day-to-day lives, but what about as a church/ministry? Here are two little towns where few have heard the Truth of Christ’s Gospel (His message of grace, love and forgiveness), and we’ve been invited to a harvest. How shall we respond? Shall we heed our Lord’s request? Certainly, our time is now!

— Pastor Frank

GRATEFUL

Posted on April 18, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.
William Arthur Ward – Christian Inspiration Writer

In our New Testament scriptures, the word “grateful” is not often found; but when employed, it has some very powerful implications for us as believers in Christ Jesus. The compound Greek words eucharisteo and eucharistia, from which the word Eucharist is derived, are translated in English Bibles as meaning gratitude–to be (actively) grateful, to express gratitude and/or thankfulness (towards God or an individual). It is also used in the sense of an attitude or feeling, particularly as related to acts of worship, expressions, statements, prayers of thanksgiving, and can even be connected to the idea of saying grace before a meal.

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.
Colossians 2:6-7

Here we find a thought-provoking concept. Since no limitation is ever set on the undertakings and transforming work of God’s Holy Spirit in one’s soul, or maximum capacity established on one’s spiritual growth and development in the true knowledge, love, and image of God, those who are brought into such a state of salvation and life in Christ Jesus should abound with gratitude as they grow and mature in the grace afforded them. Actually this verse is the closing statement of an argument set forth by the Apostle Paul beginning in Colossians chapter one:

A. In Christ, true Christians have reconciliation to/with God (1:22-23)

B. In Christ, true Christians are granted revelation concerning the mystery of Christ and the Gospel to the Gentiles (1:24-27)

C. In Christ, true Christians are brought to perfection (1:28-29)

D. In Christ, true Christians gain education/knowledge/wisdom (2:1-5)

As a result, active, on-going expressions of gratitude begin overflowing from the heart as believers begin to grasp and more clearly understand the great privilege and opportunity afforded them to become intimately acquainted with all of God’s precious and glorious promises toward those who trust in Him. If there is anything for which we ought to be “grateful,” it is for the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, who is the Truth and the abundant life we joyously experience. Perhaps our gratitude, both spiritually and practically, would flow much more freely to the Lord and others if we were more diligent about taking every thought captive. (See II Corinthians 10:5)

In I Timothy 4:3, we are reminded that God has “created” many things to be “gratefully shared in by those who believe and know the truth.” Then the apostle Paul continues — encouraging Christ’s followers to carefully consider their attitudes and perspective on life …

For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with gratitude; for it is sanctified by means of the word of God and prayer.
I Timothy 4:4

Perhaps this is a manifestation, a genuine outward display of spiritual growth — undoubtedly an individual who is continually abounding in gratefulness is making real progress!

Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe; for our God is a consuming fire.
Hebrews 12:28-19

Therefore, the purposeful demonstration of being authentically grateful becomes the indisputable expression of, and the undeniable/irrefutable proof, concerning the habitation of spiritual joy — whether directed towards God, an individual(s), or a situation/ circumstance.

Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.
William Arthur Ward

Fruit of God’s Holy Spirit (See Galatians 5:22) are both seen and heard, visible and perceived — consequently, believers are encouraged by all these biblical passages to abound in them. Nonetheless, while gratefulness is a key ingredient and building-block for experiencing joy in our daily Christian sojourn while confined to earth, we all know it’s really difficult to be “grateful” 24/7. Here are some tips for acquiring a grateful attitude and perspective for the life you now live in the flesh through faith in the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who loves you and gave Himself for you! (see Galatians 2:20)

1. Learn to say thanks, meaning it from your heart!

2. Consider your blessings, count them, instead of focusing on what you don’t have!

3. Give (money) as you earn (money) and sacrifice some time to serve Christ’s church!

4. Do nothing from selfishness/empty conceit, but in humility regard others as more important than yourself; not merely looking out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others — have this attitude in yourself which was also in Christ Jesus.

LET’S BECOME A GRATEFUL PEOPLE … ALL OF US AT WOF. We can do it! His & Yours, PF