2 corinthians

A CHALLENGE FROM PASTOR FRANK

Posted on May 30, 2025 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

GUILT -V- CONVICTION

Posted on May 30, 2025 by West Oaks Fellowship

Too often believers (true followers of Jesus Christ) ask, “Is what I’m experiencing (feeling)guilt or conviction?”

Initially, one must come to recognize the ultimate goal / purpose of these sentiments and responses or reactions as an elementary (basic / foundational) part of successful, abundant Christian living (John 10:10). The ultimate objective or purpose of biblical / spiritual conviction is to bring about behavior modification / transformation, working to shape or mold an individual into a stronger, more mature, disciple of the Lord. The overriding objective of guilt is spiritually destructive, working to make one feel worthless, unlovable, unacceptable, and even, perhaps, as useless as possible, due to recent or even past improper, sinful behavior. Feelings of guilt leave out the most critical, spiritual step of “turning from”from something of disgrace and rebellion and “turning to” something of righteousness and truth!

The palmist put it this way … “Depart from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. The eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous, and His ears are open to their cry.” (Psalm 34:14-15) Romans 10:9b declares, “Abhor (shudder from) what is evil; cling to what is good.” Then consider 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22, “But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil.”

Christ’s church / believers in Thessalonica had an incredible testimony among those in Macedonia and Achaia because they had, “turned to God from idols to serve a living and true God!” (1 Thessalonians 1:9-10)

So genuine conviction, either in the aspect of salvation, or in the process of spiritual development and growing into maturity, embraces the concept of a significant turning! This behavior is the turning away from something, as in laying something aside (those things which so easily entangle us – Hebrews 12:1), and turning to and fully embracing something else. That’s turning from known sin / rebellion, as a result of spiritual / biblical conviction, and then turning fully to … wholeheartedly embracing the Lord’s (biblical) Truth on the matter through spiritual, mental, and behavioral transformation / extreme modification. (Romans 12:1-2) Our Lord’s objective in conviction is always change for the better, His people becoming permanently more like Him! (2 Peter 1:4)

“For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed (fashioned or shaped, having likeness) to the image of His Son!”
Romans 8:29

Therefore, conviction, as a result of God’s Word and the working of God’s Holy Spirit in one’s life, is an awesome gift and incontestable blessing from the Lord to assist each and every one of His followers while remaining in life on this earth as His children, servants, ministers, and ambassadors.

With all that said, guilt, on the other hand, is not good and is not a gift from above, but instead a tool of the enemy to cripple and render useless the Lord’s people. That’s why being able to discern each feeling(guilt or conviction) – and its true source – is a highly valuable tool in the daily walk of every believer. By the way, the way we use the word, in relation to “feeling guilty” about something isn’t really in the scriptures, although the word for shame may in some biblical references be similar. Our enemies, whether that be self, one’s own flesh, the world or the devil himself, are always actively presenting the human emotions of guilt, regret, blame, and shame. They want these emotions to plant voices and negative, destructive feelings right inside believers; telling us that we are no good, that we are not free (to obey Christ rather than one’s sin nature), that we will undoubtedly do that ugly sin and rebellion again (over and over), and that if anyone finds out — the hat of unworthiness will surely rest upon one’s head for everyone to see, and surely God’s love, as well as His redemption, is nullified due to one’s own actions / behavior!

Remember …“he is a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44). In reality, guilt declares that we are responsible for saving ourselves, and that because, for humans, Christ’s disciples know and understand that that saving oneself is impossible, therefore the enemy throws accusations at believers (remember he is the accuser of Christ-followers – Revelation 12:10), declaring that grace is exhausted (all used up because of one’s sinful behavior)and there remains no hope, no peace, no deliverance, etc., etc.!

An individual’s feelings of guilt will result in hiding from the Lord in shame, just like Adam and Eve did in the Garden. One either runs to Christ or runs away … hiding in guilt and shame! There are all kinds of issues, mental and physical, related to living in guilt and shame, besides the spiritual consequences, which are not addressed in this document. However, there is a way out, a path to victory, if guilt has its debilitating stranglehold on you!

“Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.”
Ephesians 6:11-13

“Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”
James 4:7

Deal with one’s sin before the Lord

“How blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered! How blessed is the man to whom the Lord does not impute iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit! When I kept silent about my sin, my body wasted away through my groaning all day long. For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me; My vitality was drained away as with the fever heat of summer. Selah. I acknowledged my sin to You, and my iniquity I did not hide; I said, ‘I will confess my transgressions to the Lord’; and You forgave the guilt of my sin. Selah.”
Psalm 32:1-5

Never let the past have a place in or control your future

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.”
2 Corinthians 5:17

“Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 3:13-14

Guilt is not for us, but spiritual conviction is a precious tool for the Lord to keep us moving forward on the right path for His glory!

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

ADVENT 2023

Posted on May 29, 2025May 29, 2025 by West Oaks Fellowship

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

Here’s my take:

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

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

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

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

“For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and  remain until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the  voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words.”

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

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

Isaiah 9:6

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

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

And after He had said these things, He was lifted up while they were looking on, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. And as they were gazing intently into the sky while He was going, behold, two men in white clothing stood beside them. They also said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven.”
Acts 1:6-11

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

I will give thanks to You, O Lord, among the peoples; I will sing praises to You among the nations. For Your lovingkindness is great to the heavens and Your truth to the clouds. Be exalted above the heavens, O God; let Your glory be above all the earth.
Psalm 57:9-11

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

JOY TO THE WORLD — THE LORD HAS COME

JOY TO THE WORLD — HE IS COMING AGAIN!

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

Pastor Frank

HOLINESS

Posted on October 6, 2023 by West Oaks Fellowship

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

“Holiness, holiness

Is what I long for

Holiness is what I need

Holiness, holiness

Is what You want from me.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pastor Frank

FREEDOM / LIBERTY / INDEPENDENCE

Posted on October 6, 2023October 6, 2023 by West Oaks Fellowship

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Romans 8:1-5

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

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

HOW: By “sending His own Son”

Galatians 3:22

“But the Scripture has shut up everyone under sin, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe.”

ONE WAY — JESUS!

Galatians 4:4

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

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

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

Pastor Frank

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

FEAR

Posted on May 5, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

President Franklin Delano Roosevelt (First Inaugural Address, March 4, 1933):

The only thing we have to fear is fear itself – nameless, unreasoning, unjustified, terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance.

While most are familiar with this quote, and many can quote a portion of it (very similar to certain portions of scripture), not many read, know, or fully comprehend the whole statement. Notice that according to Roosevelt, “fear” works to paralyze efforts to convert retreat into advance. In that day, the USA was slipping into isolationism (along with Great Britain), drawing back from the impending conflicts and certain trouble that was brewing in Asia and Europe. In essence, many Americans were blindly acting as if nothing was awry. How often does fear creep into the lives of God’s people, even faithful believers, crippling advancement and ultimately leading to retreat and/or even defeat?

In the Scriptures, one primarily finds 3 Greek words translated as “fear” in our English New Testaments. Amazingly, 3 Hebrew words are used in the Old Testament as well, the most common being the word, yare’ – meaning the psychological reaction of being afraid of something or someone. Turning to the New Testament, one of the Greek words phobos (noun), phoberos (adjective), and phobeo (verb), from which derives the English word “phobia” (meaning irrational fear), is obviously the most familiar. However, the original meaning of this word is not fear, but “flight.”

In other words, something or someone causes a person to take flight. That’s exactly what America was doing when FDR made his comment, and one must wonder how often believers take flight from the things of the Lord — His Truth, conviction, guidance, leadership, correction, etc.

Consider Isaiah 8:11-13, where clear instruction is provided, encouraging the faithful to walk in the counsel of the Lord, not the wisdom and reasoning of unregenerate humanity.

For thus the Lord spoke to me with mighty power and instructed me not to walk in the way of this people, saying, You are not to say, ‘It is a conspiracy!’ In regard to all that this people call a conspiracy, And you are not to fear what they fear or be in dread of it. It is the Lord of hosts whom you should regard as holy. And He shall be your fear, And He shall be your dread.

In actuality, all God’s people have nothing to fear except the Lord Himself … fearing Him, the Holy One, and no others.

Can you see the consistency of the Lord in this matter when contemplating the similarities of Christ’s instruction to His followers in Matthew 10:26-29?

Therefore do not fear them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. What I tell you in the darkness, speak in the light; and what you hear whispered in your ear, proclaim upon the housetops. Do not fear those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.

Again, in actuality all God’s people have nothing to fear except the Lord Himself … fearing Him, the Holy One, and no others.

This “reverential fear,” which should be prominent in every true Christian, is best understood as nothing caused through or by the intimidation or the attack of adversaries, but as active in/through a dynamic relationship with Jesus Christ as not only Saviour, but Lord! First, Christ is viewed as the controlling motive of life, in matters spiritual, moral, and ethical conduct — not a mere “fear” of His power and righteous retribution, but a wholesome dread of displeasing Him. This “fear” banishes any and all terror that shrinks from His presence. (Study Romans 8:15, Philippians 2:12)

Second, Christ’s true disciples are undeniably and indisputably convinced that one’s circumstances are guided by trust in Him, through the influences of God’s indwelling Holy Spirit and His Word as they, together, bear witness (speak) within one’s mind, heart, soul, etc. (Study Acts 9:31; II Corinthians 7:1)

Next, faithful followers’ reverential “fear” of God will inspire a constant carefulness in dealing with others. (Study Ephesians 5:21; I Peter 3:15-16) Last, this fear works powerfully in each believer to remind them that life is extremely short, compared to eternity, and that the things of this world are to be held lightly with proper understanding of their purpose in one’s life. (Study I Peter 1:17-19; I Corinthians 7:1)

The Psalmist (Psalm 33:18) declares, “Behold, the eye of the Lord is on those who fear Him, On those who hope for His lovingkindness!” Unquestionably, there is an understanding of reverential fear, the concepts defined above, deep within his heart/mind/soul.

At West Oaks Fellowship, we regularly sing a great song entitled “Whom Shall I Fear” by Darrell Evans which asks,

Whom shall I fear? Whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life
Whom shall I fear? Whom shall I fear?

Now you know the right answer is definitely NOT – no one or nothing! — Pastor Frank

APPEARANCE

Posted on May 5, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

The appearance of stars marks the end of the day . . . In Nehemiah 4:21, those rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem had to split their efforts between half standing guard and half diligently laying stones, both working long hours … “from the break of dawn till the stars came out.” One may recall that one of the reasons our Lord placed lights (including the stars) in the heavens was “to separate the day from the night, and let them be for signs and for seasons and for days and years.” However, God uses the “star” and our “stars” throughout the scriptures for many distinctive purposes.

The OT shows awareness of the stars’ immense number, which many explain why so many humans looked to them for spiritual direction, or even worshiped individual stars and constellations as gods. Of course, consulting their alignment for spiritual guidance (astrology, not astronomy or geography) or worshiping them in any manner was strictly forbidden because it completely disregarded and rebelliously denied God’s purpose in their creation. (Perhaps one should take a moment right now just to consider how many other things in God’s creation have crumpled into this same type of demise.)

Stars were created by God … their task is only that which is established by God. They are totally subordinate to God, under His absolute authority and control, and intended for His glory/ purpose(s). (See Psalm 19:1-6) This status is tenaciously reinforced in Psalm 147:4:

He counts the number of the stars; He gives names to all of them.

Thus, their existence and destiny are completely according to His will, even including whether they shine or not! (See Job 9:7-10). Actually, they respond as creatures, in the same manner we as Christ’s followers, God’s children, should. While the language in Judges 5:20 is certainly poetic, stars fighting against Israel’s enemies clearly demonstrates that the Lord can deliberately and unreservedly use any and all the forces of the universe to accomplish His purpose(s). After all, whose universe is it?

Accordingly, throughout the universe, all stars are to “praise Him.” (See Psalm 148:3)

Is there any different calling for humanity?

Interestingly, in the Bible, perhaps because of their brilliance and glory, the word “star” is used symbolically of creatures, both enemies and servants of God, as well as individuals. In an unique play on words, according to Isaiah 14:12, the symbolic king of Babylon, Lucifer, imagining himself to be the “Day Star,” “son of Dawn,” or the “Star of the Morning,” was not satisfied with his dominant position, but sought to ascend above the stars (a place reserved for God alone). His desire to take the place of God presented a direct challenge to God’s authority and power.

As a result, the king was cast down in defeat (14:12-15). By the way, astronomically speaking, Venus is the morning star because it’s seen first from the earth’s perspective. Jesus Christ is not the “Star of the Morning” (that’s Lucifer/Satan), as presented by some biblically illiterate or confused Christian musicians, but He is undeniably the Bright Morning Star described in II Peter 1:19 and Revelation 22:16.

Jude 13 audaciously and fearlessly declares the opponents of God as:

wandering stars, for whom the black darkness has been reserved forever.

Conversely, the OT compares the coming Messiah to a rising star and scepter in Numbers 24:17, and in one case, stars symbolize the glory of the resurrected life for true believers … Those who turn many to righteousness will rise in the resurrection, and will shine “like the stars for ever and ever.” (See Daniel 12:1-3). In addition, Paul compares the glory of a Christian’s exclusive resurrected body to the glory and distinction of the stars in I Corinthians 15:40-49.

Agnostic pantheist Carl Sagan, American astrophysicist, cosmologist, exobiologist, author (“Contact”) and TV host (“Cosmos”), stated, “we are star stuff.” However, the God who created the stars and their shine — the One who declared:

Light shall shine out of darkness, is the One who has shone in our (every true believer’s) hearts to give the Light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. (See II Corinthians 4:6)

Simply “star stuff” — or partakers and bearers of the True Light? God’s call, not ours or Sagan’s. See, knowing Him is knowing Truth … that’s GOD’S star stuff!

— Pastor Frank

AFFLICTION

Posted on May 3, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

The idea of affliction brings unpleasant thoughts to most of our minds, and even troubles the average human’s emotion. Nonetheless, this word is used abundantly throughout the Bible (both OT & NT), to describe plagues, tribulation, trouble, disease, grief, delusion, distress, misfortune, suffering, remorse, punishment, humiliation, ill-treatment, disaster, misery and even many forms of hardship. Have you ever wondered why this word appears so many times in the scriptures? Perhaps it’s the reality of human existence. Is there life without some form of affliction?

While there are plenty individuals in our world promoting such an idea, whether through the consumption or application of some magic potion (some of you remember #9); the use of the “perfect” and/or superior (better than all the rest) diet, exercise routine or equipment; the application of certain principles from the latest self-help, humanistic, or pagan/mystical literature; or through the prayers/lying-on-of-hands/anointing of the “right” so called “Christian” spiritual leader/pastor/evangelist, the simple fact is all humanity is afflicted! We’re afflicted, 1^st with sin and death, and 2^nd with suffering/pain, misfortune, and all the definitions of affliction listed above.

In the OT, afflictions are both individual (sickness, poverty, oppression … sometimes at the hands of the rich or powerful, perverted justice, etc.) and national (war, invasions, catastrophe, conquest by foreign peoples, exile, etc.) In the NT, much attention is given to personal suffering and fierce antagonism manifested against those following Jesus Christ, ultimately resulting in their persecution. In every situation, from both the OT and NT, the sources of affliction, as well as the meaning and purpose of affliction, must be given careful consideration and approached with the highest level of biblical/spiritual discernment.

As an example, physical and mental maladies in the time of Christ were considered either the work of evil spirits/demons/Beelzebub/Satan or a direct result of someone’s individual sin. (see Mark 1:23; 3:22; 5:2; Matthew 9:32) However, while Christ certainly gives some credence to this concept based upon His ministry in several distinct occasions, He also clearly rebukes this as an absolute certainty when dealing with the one born blind in John 9.

And His disciples asked Him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he would be born blind?” Jesus answered, “It was neither that this man sinned, nor his parents; but it was so that the works of God might be displayed in him.
— John 9:2-3

There is also a much overlooked event that occurs with the Apostle Paul in Acts 28.

But when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and laid them on the fire, a viper came out because of the heat and fastened itself on his hand. When the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand, they began saying to one another, “Undoubtedly this man is a murderer, and though he has been saved from the sea, justice has not allowed him to live.” However he shook the creature off into the fire and suffered no harm. But they were expecting that he was about to swell up or suddenly fall down dead. But after they had waited a long time and had seen nothing unusual happen to him, they changed their minds and began to say that he was a god.
— Acts 28:3-6

How interesting the presumptions and confused misjudgments of humanity … obviously lacking spiritual understanding and discernment, adopting some human philosophy that fails to align itself with Christ’s teachings (Truth) or the revelation we have in His Word! I’ve actually heard people say Paul didn’t have enough faith to rid himself of his “thorn in the flesh.” How can true believers ignore God’s Truth and buy in to such humanistic, mystical, pagan, narcissistic mind-science? No matter what mankind says, some spiritual leader says, or you say, God irrefutably declares:

Because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, for this reason, to keep me from exalting myself, there was given me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me – to keep me from exalting myself! Concerning this I implored the Lord three times that it might leave me. And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong.
— II Corinthians 12:7-10

Why was the messenger of Satan sent? What was Paul’s resolution? How can this response be anything other than from a man who lives by faith in the Son of God (Jesus Christ) who loves Paul and gave His life for him! When will the faithful come to understand that we are not exempt creatures, we do not live life in some utopian Christian bubble without affliction? (See Psalm 34:19) Nonetheless, indisputably, no matter the affliction, we have permanent companionship through every difficulty/struggle! (See Hebrews 13:5-6, I Peter 1:3-9, I Corinthians 10:13) Believers can absolutely know and discern the source and purpose of their affliction(s), and will undoubtedly, according to the scriptures, have grace and strength from above to endure and/or escape! You may recall the words of Christ upon learning about His close friend’s death in John 11:4:

This sickness is not to end in death, but for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified by it.

That’s not Jesus speaking false hope, formulated faith, or trying to spin the facts to make everyone feel better. No, that’s spiritual discernment, knowing the source and purpose of the event/affliction. Is Romans 8:28 God’s Word/Truth or not? Is He provident and sovereign over all/everything? (See Psalm 139)

Recently, on several occasions, I’ve heard people question why there are so many individuals suffering at WOF. First of all, there is no evidence of such an increase. Second, we are humans who openly suffer affliction (there’s more about Paul’s suffering in the NT than his blessings). Conversely, asking this question provides great revelation. One either fails to understand the truth of, and even the need for affliction among believers, or one has erroneously embraced some non-biblical, man-made, pagan philosophy concerning suffering/affliction, and attempted to robe those destructive concepts in the framework of orthodox Christianity. GOD forbid! That’s about as heretical as declaring Jesus a failure (which I’ve heard) because He was unable to bring in the Kingdom (His earthly mission) and died trying! Totally absurd, according to JC — John 17:4.

Here’s my prayer/desire for all of us at WOF, especially as Easter 2012 quickly approaches. Please begin focusing on someone else’s afflictions — that of Jesus Christ, which will absolutely broaden/transform one’s perspective on this whole subject. May we all consider Him as our mentor and completely incorporate His life as our model …

Who for the joy set before Him endured the cross” … “For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” (from Hebrews 12:2-3)

Always remember, Truth — understood and applied sets us (true and faithful believers/disciples) absolutely free from all this profane, deviating, dissenting nonsense.

— Pastor Frank

ADEQUACY

Posted on May 3, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

In II Corinthians 3:4-6 believers are reminded that they are “adequate servants of the new covenant” (NT grace/gospel-based relationship/contract with God through Christ Jesus alone). How often do we actually consider, or view ourselves in this light? The Lord is not simply calling us out as servants of the New Covenant, but as believers who are “adequate” in the framework (apparatus and structure) of that calling. In order to fully comprehend “adequacy,” let’s first consider the context of this dynamic, empowering, and far-reaching comprehensive statement:

Such confidence we have through Christ toward God. Not that we are adequate in ourselves to consider anything as coming from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God, who also made us adequate as servants of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.

First, one must recognize/acknowledge “inadequacy” (insufficiency and even incompetency) as a significant and mandatory qualification for becoming a “servant of the new covenant.”

Not that we are adequate in ourselves to consider anything as coming from ourselves.

How often do individuals overlook their own personal inadequacies in direct disagreement (even in prideful rebellion) with the Lord’s Word? Doesn’t Christ simply desire for us to come into agreement with Him? Even when one begins to face the truth about his/her own spiritual inabilities, especially when it concerns producing the type of life Christ is looking for, one can easily underestimate the extent of human deficiency. Believers may come to think that they are just not able to produce everything, or as much as, God desires/wants in their lives. Needless to say, our Lord has a more radical viewpoint, clearly stating that we cannot view ourselves as “adequate in ourselves to consider anything as coming from ourselves.” Again, doesn’t Christ simply desire His followers to come into agreement with Him?

Second, one must recognize/acknowledge God’s undeniable, irrefutable, sufficient and competent adequacy. “Our adequacy (sufficiency) is from God” and no other! The adequate and all sufficient resources for living the Christian life are to be found in Him and Him alone!

We are to be the beneficiaries, by/through His grace, and recipients of God’s full and adequate supply. Humans are not the source — even strong, dedicated, faithful believers are not the adequate, sufficient providers!

The Lord is the right and proper resource and supply … all that’s needed for life and godliness (fearless, faithful, victorious, righteous living — see II Peter 1:3)!

Can anyone simply agree with Him?

According to the scripture previously referenced (II Corinthians 3:4-6) the difference between living by God’s supply or by our own adequacy and resources is a matter of life and death . . . “for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.” Living the Christian life by our own capabilities will spiritually kill us. It will eventually leave us exhausted, discouraged, and condemned. Whereas, depending upon God’s Holy Spirit to supply the abundant grace of God will ultimately provide adequate strength, encouragement, and comfort.

Under the Old Testament Law and provisions of the Old Covenant, only the Levites were actually called and set apart to be officially God’s servants. They were not allowed to participate in “earthly” or what we would call secular work, and they were to be totally supported by the tithes received from the other tribes of Israel. It seems that modern- day Christianity may have unquantifiably and unreservedly adopted some of this Old Covenant philosophy and dumped it right out in the pews of today’s church.

Where does the New Testament teach that only those who give up their secular jobs can become servants of God? Undoubtedly, undeniably, irresponsibly, recklessly, negligently, and carelessly, this prominent teaching of human religion and tradition has been elevated as God’s will/purpose/truth. However this convoluted concept is without New Testament/New Covenant support, and stands in direct contradiction to the teachings of Christ and the biblical examples of New Testament church leadership. Consider Romans 6:22:

But now having been freed from sin and enslaved to God, you derive your benefit, resulting in sanctification, and the outcome, eternal life.

One is made free from sin — then as a result becomes “enslaved to God,” or in other words, a servant/bondservant of the Lord. The Greek word translated here “enslaved” is from the root word doulo/douloo, meaning both literally and figuratively to become (make) a servant and/or to bring into bondage/servitude. Obviously apparent, this passage has nothing to do with how one makes a living, or someone giving up their secular job in order to become God’s servant! The inexorable and unmistakable truth revealed here calls all those who believe in Jesus Christ to enter servanthood based upon them becoming eligible for that position and opportunity through God’s grace and provision for the removal of one’s sin found only in Jesus Christ! It’s ultimately HIS adequacy and sufficiency that allows our privileged calling as adequate/sufficient servants of the New Covenant!

Perhaps Christ’s followers should simply come into agreement with Him? This prayer may help turn one’s heart and embrace this abiding Truth.

Lord of Grace, I humbly admit that I have often held a perspective so different from Yours on this subject of adequacy and sufficiency. I have repeatedly behaved as though my entire Christian life experience depended upon what I thought I could do with/from my own abilities and resources. Lord, as You have declared, it has brought forth spiritual deadness. Please teach me to trust You and God’s Holy Spirit to birth (into my Christian life experience) the full adequacy and sufficiency of Your immeasurable grace.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Simply try it … Pastor Frank