acts

ASSEMBLY

Posted on May 19, 2026 by West Oaks Fellowship

As spring quickly approaches and summer is just around the corner, it is essential for believers to consider the significance of a New Testament word that only appears twice in the biblical text. Often, little attention is given to such things that would be considered by some to be a minor issue due to its frequency of use. However, the actual context declares a much different importance!

Human weaknesses continue pretty much the same as always, even for 1st century believers who faithfully followed Jesus Christ (“The Way” – Acts 9:2). However, in the era in which we find ourselves, modern day Christians have acquiesced, accumulating many more excuses for forsaking the assembly of Christ’s church than could have ever been imagined, mustered up, or even comprehended by the author of Hebrews when penning . . . “And let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together (GREEK – ‎e)pisunagwgh/ ‎episunagoge), as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” (10:24-25)

Certainly, in this modern age, one can always just listen to a sermon podcast or online (Websites / YouTube), allowing the opportunity to pick up that extra overtime shift for some extra dough or just sleep in a little longer. Then, there’s all the travel sports tournaments and athletic events that the kids can’t possibly miss out on! After all, families can just make it up to the Lord whenever the season is over. What does that teach our children and youth in today’s church?

Since many types of technology are readily available in our western societies and one is free to use them 24/7 — anyone can just tap in at their own convenience without any regard for the instruction of scripture or needs of any others, other than themselves. But here’s the truth: you cannot replace the experience of participating in a live worship service with a recording and call it church. Digital “attendance” is a misnomer. Even the best sermon podcast or livestream is not in actuality church, and should not, in any way whatsoever, be compared to one participating in a local church service … a vital part of abundant / successful Christian living (See John 10:10).

Active involvement in a New Testament based church ministry is not an “add-on option” — like a round of golf, going on a cruise, or out for a nice dinner. Theologian Brad East, a writer for Christianity Today Magazine, in reference to church attendance / participation states, “It is how we learn to be human as God intended. Indeed, it makes possible truly human life before God.”

Sometimes, believers may find themselves in extenuating circumstances where there exist legitimate reasons for missing church. Some people have to work, because many businesses are now open on Sundays. Others are incapacitated or ill, making it impractical (physically impossible) to be actively involved. In those cases, local congregations have a ministerial duty to bring church to them, insofar as that is feasible. Therefore, many caring churches, like ours, attempt to provide easily accessible live streaming access and libraries of recorded teachings on-line for their benefit and blessing. In addition, some church members may be working, or are stationed overseas, live under persecution, or are in places where there literally are no local congregations. While these services cannot substitute for attending live services, they do provide an encouraging connection for those in these types of circumstances.

Now. Let’s dig into the scripture. Here are a few questions for every believer to contemplate.

How can every believer in Christ Jesus be faithful, “to stimulate one another to love and good deeds” if they are not participating in the on-going gatherings (assembling) of Christ’s Church?
How can fellow believers actually be, “encouraging one another” if they are not participating in the on-going gatherings (assembling) of Christ’s Church?
What does “all the more” mean for those in a church body?
Finally, what does “not forsaking” mean?

It is impossible to fulfill this straight forward admonition in absenteeism! Not as from a religious legalistic perspective, but from a Holy Spirit directed response to the Lord’s will … let us regard the welfare of others as we assemble! May we endeavor to stimulate one another for perseverance in this Christian life by mutual loving and through biblical exhortation! We are not to be selfish or take into regard only our own interests (See Philippians 2:4), but have genuine concern for each other, our fellow brothers and sisters in the Body of Christ / His Church. Are we to carry on the same ministries now, accepting the same responsibilities, as those gathered in that early Hebrew Church? Can we help each other face the trials, meeting them head on, strengthening each other and allocating appropriate time for encouraging one another? Should we? Indeed, as a small church (relatively speaking when compared to many others in Houston, Texas), most everyone can actually know most everyone else! What a unique opportunity for our assembling together! Nonetheless, individual participation becomes the crucial, underlying element. What shall we do with what’s been afforded us?

Our Lord’s Church, universal and local, is a divine institution, created and designed specifically for the Lord’s purposes and the benefit, as well as the blessing, of humanity. It’s just like as part of the original creation, He designed family! In fact, as part of the body of Christ, are we not all His sons and daughters (See 2 Corinthians 6:18) uniting us all as one divinely created / ordained family ultimately for His purposes and glory? Apparently, Christ Jesus desired for us to have His family reunions on a fairly regular / consistent / weekly basis! Actually, they are designed to continue in an unwavering manner right up until that last congregational assembly / gathering as clearly described in 2 Thessalonians 2:1-2 (where we find the second biblical use of this word)!

Now we request you, brethren, with regard to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together (GREEK –‎e)pisunagwgh/ ‎episunagoge) to Him, that you not be quickly shaken from your composure or be disturbed either by a spirit or a message or a letter as if from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord has come.

When I was a kid, we went to church! When we went on vacation to visit my grandparents and cousins in Oceanside, California, we went to church. When we went camping at Garner State Park for weeks every summer, we went to church in Leakey, Texas. If, when visiting my grandfather in San Antonio, we stayed over the weekend, we went to church. Today most would say that seems a little extreme, but let me tell you after my own personal emotional, spiritual, mental, and personal battle with the whole concept of “church”— I am deeply appreciative for my heritage of consistent church participation; I’m even more grateful to my Lord, that when in my hyper-critical, idealistic, judgmental thinking, as a mere human, my Lord said to me … “It’s My church, who are you to criticize it!”

It’s His Church, here for each and every one of us, what then shall we do?

-PF

HYPOCRISY/HYPOCRITE

Posted on February 12, 2026 by West Oaks Fellowship

A simple definition of hypocrisy states: the practice of claiming to have certain moral standards or beliefs while one’s own behavior does not conform or actually align with those principles, which makes that individual a hypocrite. Other words may sometimes be used to describe this seemingly common condition like sanctimoniousness, pharisaism, and duplicity.

In ancient Greek theaters, a hypocrite was an actor—someone who wore a mask and stepped into a specific role, performing not as himself, but as another. It was a term used to describe a performer skilled in their craft. However, the word moved beyond the stage plays and came to describe anyone who pretended to be something they were not!

Most everyone has experienced levels of hypocrisy as a common occurrence within the framework of everyday life. We see it everywhere—from politicians to preachers, authority figures to common people, family members and friends to business associates and team members, those hailed as heroes and even exalted athletes and social leaders. Sadly, but honestly, most of us have been in that state at one point or another in our lives! Prevalent forms of obvious hypocrisy display themselves frequently, perhaps even habitually within our culture and society:

1. Personal / Social: A person who advocates for honesty but lies continually, sometimes even about insignificant or unimportant issues.

2. Political: Leaders proclaiming certain honorable values while engaging in corrupt actions, acting as if they are above the law or somehow exempt because of the powerful positions or offices they hold.

3. Behavioral: A person criticizing others’ actions or words, like critiquing someone’s tardiness while they are known for showing up consistently late.

4. Religious: Performing outward acts of devotion while having a selfish, ungodly, unethical or immoral private life.

In the Bible, we find considerable attention given to hypocrites and their hypocrisy. Memorably, Jesus Christ denounced those who outwardly appeared to be highly religious but were inwardly filled with corruption, and woefully lacked spiritual qualities, while claiming to be experts in biblical law and its multiple applications in their society. A religious hypocrite may not be an actor on a literal stage, but puts on a show, on their own stage, before other humans and God Himself!

“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which on the outside appear beautiful, but inside they are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness. So you, too, outwardly appear righteous to men, but inwardly you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness. Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you build the tombs of the prophets and adorn the monuments of the righteous, and say, ‘If we had been living in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partners with them in shedding the blood of the prophets.’ So you testify against yourselves, that you are sons of those who murdered the prophets. Fill up, then, the measure of the guilt of your fathers. You serpents, you brood of vipers, how will you escape the sentence of hell?”

Matthew 23:27-33

The scriptures teach us to think about hypocrisy and hypocrites in several different ways, each clearly demonstrating what it may look like (appearance) or sound like (activity). The warning is articulated so all believers can be alert and identify the duping methods of the hypocrite! (Sometimes they even can fool themselves into thinking / believing they are what they claim to be.) If unrecognized and allowed to continue, this poses a potential devastating internal spiritual, as well as eternal danger! Remember the upsetting words of our Lord spoken to the exorcist and miracle workers in Matthew 7:23 – “And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; DEPART FROM ME, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS.”

Consider:

The hypocrisy of performative worship. While we worship our Lord outwardly, He desires our hearts and minds to be engaged as well or one’s worship becomes meaningless and shallow. A hypocrite goes through the motions, doing and saying the right things, while his heart is actually distant from Him.

Then the Lord said, “Because this people draw near with their words and honor Me with their lip service, but they remove their hearts far from Me, and their reverence for Me consists of tradition learned by rote, therefore behold, I will once again deal marvelously with this people, wondrously marvelous; And the wisdom of their wise men will perish, and the discernment of their discerning men will be concealed.”

Isaiah 29:13-14

The hypocrisy of performative faith. Faith that is only a matter of words, one declaring, “I believe” at all the right and appropriate times, but fails to demonstrate itself by good fruit is useless. It is dead!

Even so faith, if it has no works, is dead, being by itself. But someone may well say, “You have faith and I have works; show me your faith without the works, and I will show you my faith by my works.” You believe that God is one. You do well; the demons also believe, and shudder. But are you willing to recognize, you foolish fellow, that faith without works is useless?

James 2:17-21

The hypocrisy of performative service / ministry. The Pharisees, who were the primary antagonists during the earthly ministry of Jesus Christ, tithed from their mint and dill. That kind of meticulous attention to detail looked impressive to most, but not in the eyes of our Lord. He sharply rebuked those hypocritical spiritual leaders.

“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier provisions of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness; but these are the things you should have done without neglecting the others. You blind guides, who strain out a gnat and swallow a camel!”

Matthew 23:23-24

The hypocrisy of performative displays. Jesus cautioned His followers, that believers must not be like the hypocrites! Through their voices, gestures, and wordiness, they would seek to draw attention for themselves. The hypocritical heart is attention seeking, dissatisfied with doing things away from eyes, in contrast to silent, unrecognized acts of prayer, worship, service, or ministry.

“When you pray, you are not to be like the hypocrites; for they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and on the street corners so that they may be seen by men. Truly I say to you, they have their reward in full. But you, when you pray, go into your inner room, close your door and pray to your Father who is in secret, and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you.”

Matthew 6:5-6

The hypocrisy of performative judgement / disgust.

“Do not judge so that you will not be judged. For in the way you judge, you will be judged; and by your standard of measure, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ and behold, the log is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye.”

Matthew 7:1-5

The hypocrisy of performative generosity. Christ’s New Testament Church of committed believers has generally been marked by generosity, even providing for those who had various needs, as recorded in the book of Acts, as well as in the Epistles. Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1-11) sold a piece of property and secretly held back some of the profits, but gave the appearance of donating all the proceeds to the church’s on-going ministry.

“Why is it that you have conceived this deed in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God.”

Acts 5:5 – (Peter to Ananias)

“Why is it that you have agreed together to put the Spirit of the Lord to the test? Behold, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out as well.”

Acts 5:9-10 – (Peter to Sapphira)

The hypocrisy of performative speech /speaking. As the book of James reminds us, the tongue can be a restless, relentless evil that’s full of deadly poison. Too often, words are used to defame someone, disguise one’s true feelings, speak lies, break hearts, and even distort God’s Word (the Truth) for one’s own agenda or benefit.

If anyone thinks himself to be religious, and yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this man’s religion is worthless.

James 1:26-27

See how great a forest is set aflame by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire, the very world of iniquity; the tongue is set among our members as that which defiles the entire body, and sets on fire the course of our life, and is set on fire by hell. For every species of beasts and birds, of reptiles and creatures of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by the human race. But no one can tame the tongue; it is a restless evil and full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the likeness of God; from the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be this way. Does a fountain send out from the same opening both fresh and bitter water? Can a fig tree, my brethren, produce olives, or a vine produce figs? Nor can salt water produce fresh.

James 3:5-12

Undoubtedly there exists internal and spiritual causes that serve to support the hypocrite. Personal insecurities, shame, fear, guilt, pride, as well as desires for social approval and / or cultural acceptance ultimately top the list. Thus, hypocrisy erodes trust and destroys one’s credibility.

While the Bible does not provide a dictionary definition of hypocrisy, one example after another exposes the spiritual performances that deceive others and, more dangerously, one’s own self. Behind every outward display lies a heart either far from God or moving in that direction. Christ’s warnings are not for a staged presentation, but are urgent and extremely relevant for today’s Church. May we be a people whose worship, faith, service, and speech are sincere, not theatrical performances of an excellent masked actor, but true reflections of one’s own heart and mind that’s being transformed by God’s mercy and grace.

Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality.

Romans 12:9-13

His & Yours, Pastor Frank

APOSTLE PAUL

Posted on May 30, 2025 by West Oaks Fellowship

And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve the things that are excellent, in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ; having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.
Philippians 1:9-11

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pastor Frank

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

LIFE

Posted on March 2, 2023 by West Oaks Fellowship

Acts 17:24-29 – “The God who made the world and all things in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands; nor is He served by human hands, as though He needed anything, since He Himself gives to all people life and breath and all things; and He made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their habitation, that they would seek God, if perhaps they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us; for in Him we live and move and exist (are, have our being), as even some of your own poets have said, ‘For we also are His children.’”

Perhaps, in reality, one doesn’t actually see or fully understand things as they are; instead one most likely sees and understands them from the somewhat skewed perspective of either fallen or redeemed humanity. In actuality, sometimes sad to say, the way one views life (and in particular their own life) actually shapes / forms one’s own existence! At that crossroad, the way one defines “life” serves to determine one’s own destiny. Beliefs will influence how one invests their time, money, skills / talents, and even, as a believer in Christ Jesus and His Word, the intrinsic value of worship, fellowship, study, prayer, and relationships!

Individuals often outwardly express their beliefs through clothes, jewelry, cars, hairstyles, bumper stickers, social media connections, tattoos, sports / hobby interests, and social circles. These somewhat unspoken influences make an impact and bring about effects (positive or negative) in life much more than one may realize or even understand. Too often they actually serve to determine expectations, moral / ethical values, spirituality, relationships, goals, and of course priorities. If life is a party, the primary value in life will be having fun. If life is in itself a battle or a game, winning will be of highest importance! However, If life on earth is viewed as a pilgrim, and one is simply passing through, the Lord’s view, God’s divine perspective, about everything becomes essential!

The Scripture (above) declares, “He Himself gives to all people life and breath and all things!” If life is from the Lord, (the Lord God formed man … and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being. From Genesis 2:7-8) then the perhaps simplified, but absolutely and undeniably the best way to view life is from His perspective! If then, “In Him we live and move and have our existence (being),” what other view should be effectively applicable?

Is life a test? Is life something entrusted to humanity? Is life a race? Is life as we know it a temporary assignment?

Study the TRUTH and receive the ANSWERS!

James 1:12, Hebrews 11:6, Jude 1:3

Jeremiah 1:5, Psalm 139:14, Romans 14:7-9

Hebrews 12:1, 1 Corinthians 9:24

Psalm 39:4-5, James 4:14, Hebrews 13:14, Philippians 3:20

This is my constant prayer for those that participate in the ministries of West Oaks Fellowship, “May the Word of God / Christ richly dwell within each of you /us!”

– taken from Colossians 3:16

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

Pastor Frank

December 26, 1972

Posted on December 9, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

It was before dawn. Youth age students, young adults, and a handful of more mature sponsors gathered in the church parking lot with luggage in hand. Everyone was pretty excited – it was the day after Christmas, and most had never been snow skiing! There they were, a large group, anxiously waiting to load up on 2 buses and head out on the church’s first ever Christmas break retreat.

Youth and young adult summer retreats were common events for this church’s ministry, but this one was super cool – in the lingo of the participating young people, “far out man.”

The luggage was all loaded, the guys all chipped in to help the sponsors, and some final instructions were given. The trip to the New Mexico Ski Retreat would be really long, but that didn’t matter to this enthusiastic group – in fact that was nothing unusual for this youth and student ministry. Everyone then gathered around for a prayer, and the final, eagerly-awaited command, “load up!” was announced. Of course, the seats in the busses were quickly filled as young men and women jockeyed to sit with friends, those they were dating, and/or those they were interested in going out with. The busses were rolling, right on schedule – perfect!

Some slept, many played games, youthful pranks were in abundance, others just talked, sang, and laughed. A joyful spirit prevailed throughout both busses and all the young people had their good behavior turned on which made the journey a delight for the small group of sponsors (2 or 3 on each bus).

Fuel stops were planned to allow for the necessary restroom breaks as the busses rolled toward Lubbock, Texas to pick up the church’s youth pastor, who had been spending Christmas with his family. This adjustment didn’t really make the journey any longer, but did modify the route which was adjusted to travel through Clovis and Ft. Sumner, New Mexico on Highway 60 on the way to the Ski Retreat.

After lunch, things kind of mellowed out with lots of retreat participants napping, yet some still sharing and laughing. After all, west Texas highways can seem be to be incredibly long and somewhat boring!

Supper was exhilarating, everyone sensed that the long bus ride would soon be over. As young people loaded up for the final segment, singing was in the air accompanied by much joyful loudness. What was formerly bus 1 now became bus 2. The sunset was beautiful as the busses traveled west, and as darkness set in, the outside temperature quickly dropped into the mid -20s.

About 45 minutes out from Clovis, as bus 2 was singing “Lean On Me,” the driver of bus 1 (now) suddenly noticed in his rearview side mirrors that the headlights of bus 2 had disappeared. He stopped so he and the youth pastor could see if there was some sort of problem.

An east bound, loaded cattle truck had lost control of his vehicle trying to avoid having an accident on the 19’9” wide bridge where bus 2 and his 18-wheeler would have difficulty passing. The largest loss-of-life vehicle accident (at that time) in the USA had just occurred. 19 were dead, everyone on bus 2 was injured, and diesel fuel was covering the site of the accident. Those severely injured were taken to a hospital in Clovis (45 miles away), those with minor injuries to a clinic in Ft. Sumner (15 miles away). This was before cell phones – ambulances and emergency responders had to be notified … it was the day after Christmas and they were all a long way out. Those traveling along the highway, which was totally blocked by the wreckage on the bridge, assisted in whatever way they could. With broken fingers, hands, and wrists, I was taken to the hospital in the back of a pick-up truck with a little camper cover. My mom and dad, Jerry (41) and Gloria (42), volunteer youth workers, both died at the scene along with many of my friends (including a former girlfriend plus a guy from my Jesus band, Sonburst).

Acts 17:28 – In Him we live and move and exist (have our being).

Romans 14:8 – If we live, we live for the Lord, if we die, we die for the Lord, therefore whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s.

Psalm 31:15 – My times are in Your hands (Psalm 139:16)

On December 26, 2022, Brenda (who was in the other bus along with my closest friends) and I are hosting a 50 YearAnniversary Memorial Service and Monument Dedication at site of the accident (on the bridge) in New Mexico. We could sure use your prayers.

Thanks, His & Yours, PF

TURN

Posted on May 9, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

The word “turn” appears well over 250 times in modern translations of the Bible, and that doesn’t even include the words “turned” or “turning.” Why would a seemingly small, somewhat insignificant word find such a prominent place in Scripture?

In Acts 26, one finds the Apostle Paul giving his testimony (and defense) to King Agrippa. In the midst of a hearing, Paul is persuaded (no doubt, by God’s Holy Spirit) to give the details of his personal conversion experience. In verse 14, Christ speaks directly to Paul (then called Saul) asking Him, “Why are you persecuting Me?” At that point, Paul learns God’s perspective concerning his life’s activity … “It is hard for you to kick against the goads.” Then the Lord reveals His plan and purpose for Paul’s life (Acts 26:16-18):

I have appeared to you, to appoint you a minister and a witness not only to the things which you have seen, but also to the things in which I will appear to you; rescuing you from the Jewish people and from the Gentiles, to whom I am sending you, to open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the dominion of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith in Me.

Here we see God’s will – that the Jew and Gentile (any non Jew) would have their (spiritual) eyes opened and turn from the darkness (they were trapped in due to sin, even Satan’s dominion) to the light of Christ, His Gospel and Truth. In this passage the word “TURN” is the compound word “epistrepho,” in the Greek text meaning “to revert” or “convert” either in a literal, moral or spiritual sense. Therefore, Paul’s new mission in life became reverting Jews, as well as Gentiles from their current path onto/into a new route or course.

It’s interesting to note that in describing the ministry of John the Baptist, Christ’s designated predecessor, the same word “epistrepho” is employed in Luke 1:17 to describe the purpose of JB’s ministry:

TO TURN THE HEARTS OF THE FATHERS BACK TO THE CHILDREN, and the disobedient to the attitude of the righteous, so as to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.

Fathers’ hearts needed to “turn” (revert/convert) back to their children; the hearts of the disobedient needed to “turn” (revert/convert) to an attitude of righteousness, all in preparation of meeting and believing the Christ (the anointed One sent from God above).

James also uses “epistrepho” in 5:19 concerning ministry to people in the church that “stray from the truth.” Those individuals who help someone “turn” or revert/convert back to the truth, save souls from death and assist in stopping sin’s destructive rampage in a life and Christ’s church.

Christ uses “epistrepho” (translated return) when He quotes the Prophet Isaiah in Matthew 13:10-17 while explaining the true spiritual need of the Hebrew people:

FOR THE HEART OF THIS PEOPLE HAS BECOME DULL, WITH THEIR EARS THEY SCARCELY HEAR, AND THEY HAVE CLOSED THEIR EYES, OTHERWISE THEY WOULD SEE WITH THEIR EYES, HEAR WITH THEIR EARS, AND UNDERSTAND WITH THEIR HEART AND RETURN, AND I WOULD HEAL THEM.

The whole concept of the word “turn” or “turning” speaks of a significant, life- changing transformation that God desires to occur in one’s life … thus its scriptural and spiritual importance! Consider the record given in Acts 11:22, “A large number who believed turned to the Lord.” Those who truly “believed” the message of Christ, also “turned!” This presents an interesting question: “Does believing in Christ actually automatically bring about a compelling, life-transforming, significant change?” While I know we all think it should, in reality, we all know people who claim to be believers, but there is no evidence of any moral, spiritual, and/or ethical alteration or transformation!

Truly believing in Christ requires an acknowledgement of one’s own sinful nature and condition – owning up to the fact that you are desperately wicked, removed from relationship with God because of your own actions and reprobate (defined as the following):

morally unprincipled.
One who is destined to damnation due to behavior/actions.
One rejected by God’s heart.

Then one must fully trust and rely upon Christ’s suffering and atoning sacrificial death as complete, 100% propitiation/payment for all your sin. In conjunction with this faith in Christ, one must also rely upon His promise of new life in/with Him now and into/throughout eternity. This requires a complete abandonment of one’s own resources and ability to obtain salvation, and demands an unrelenting need and dependence upon Jesus Christ.

The real question of true, life transforming belief and genuine salvation is, “Does one really need Jesus and what He has to offer humanity?” Don’t forget, “The demons also believe, and shudder” (James 2:19), but they aren’t looking into Christ’s salvation, they don’t “turn” to the things of the Lord, and/or have their thoughts, actions, deeds/behavior transformed by knowing Christ, and their minds/hearts certainly aren’t being renewed. Therefore the idea of someone making a “turn” to Christ has a much broader implication and application than an individual simply praying what we call the “prayer of salvation.” Instead it is a true conversion and redirection of one’s life.

In Acts 14:11 Barnabas and Paul tell the crowd (Gentiles), which is engaged in pagan worship under the leadership of a priest of Zeus, that “they preach the gospel” in order for them to have an opportunity to “turn from these vain things to a living God!”

According to Acts 15:19, many Gentiles were “turning to God” as a result of hearing the liberating message of Christ’s gospel, and how about those Thessalonians who “Turned to God from idols to serve a living and true God, and to wait for His Son from heaven, . . . , that is Jesus, who rescues us from the wrath to come.”

So, how much do we actually need the Lord in 2011? Does one individually really need the Lord – one’s family, our church, our nation, this world? Whose resources (abilities and powers) will we actually place our trust in? Yes, every individual, every family, and our church/ministry will have to decide upon whom we rely? Will we “Turn To Heaven In Twenty Eleven” or continue status quo?

As your pastor and friend, I request the honor of helping you make the right decision/choice and experiencing a God-blessed New Year, beginning Sunday morning 01/02/2011.

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

A NATION UNDER GOD

Posted on May 5, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

A little over a half century ago, at the height of anti-Communist fervor, Congress added the words “under God” to our Pledge of Allegiance in an attempt to link patriotism and religion, clearly distinguishing the United States of America from its number one cold war enemy, those “godless” Soviets! Now, over the years, and after many repetitive declarations, this phrase has become part of American life, just like the words ”In God We Trust” on our coins and ”God bless America” uttered by presidential candidates and politicians at the end of important speeches.

However, in June of 2002, the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in California ruled 2 to 1 that those words in our pledge violate the First Amendment, which says that ”Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion.” The majority sided with Michael Newdow, who complained that his daughter was injured when forced to listen to public school teachers lead students daily in a pledge that includes the assertion that there is a God. However, the assertion “under God” is not a violation of the First Amendment establishment clause as some have suggested.

While this case, and others like it are way off the radar screen in the pantheon of First Amendment cases that have followed, no one really wants to honestly consider the lie and/or religion that’s perpetuated if “under God” is disallowed or removed. What are the impending consequences for a nation/people who willfully and purposefully refuse to acknowledge its/their appointed, preordained position, place, standing, rank, or status? The wisest man in the world clearly expresses God’s heart on this issue in Proverbs 14:34:

Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people.

Certainly it’s sin . . . absolute rebellion, for a nation or people to decide they are not “under God.” God’s prophet, Isaiah was told to, “Cry loudly” against such people, “Do not hold back; Raise your voice like a trumpet and declare to My people their transgression.” (See Isaiah 58:1) In contrast, the nation of Israel was instructed by the Lord in Deuteronomy 28:1-2:

Now it shall be, if you diligently obey the Lord your God, being careful to do all His commandments which I command you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth. All these blessings will come upon you and overtake you if you obey the Lord your God.

Ultimately every believer, and in reality, every American, must both ask and answer questions concerning the reason/purpose for this nation’s initial formation and continued existence, and in so doing must incontestably recognize:

1) God raised up Israel to be a witness to the world of the one true and living God.

Deuteronomy 4:6-8 – So keep and do them, for that is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the peoples who will hear all these statutes and say, ‘Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.’ For what great nation is there that has a god so near to it as is the Lord our God whenever we call on Him? Or what great nation is there that has statutes and judgments as righteous as this whole law which I am setting before you today?

2) God establishes and removes nations according to His will/purposes.

Daniel 2:21 – It is He who changes the times and the epochs; He removes kings and establishes kings; He gives wisdom to wise men And knowledge to men of understanding.

Acts 17:26 – And He made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their habitation.

Romans 13:1 – For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.

3) God, in His sovereign dominion governs and convenes over all nations and people.

Psalm 22:28 – For the kingdom is the Lord’s and He rules over the nations.

Psalms 47:8 – “God reigns over the nations, God sits on His holy throne.
Psalms 66:6 – He rules by His might forever; His eyes keep watch on the nations; Let not the rebellious exalt themselves. Selah.

Psalms 82:8 – Arise, O God, judge the earth! For it is You who possesses all the nations.

Therefore as we approach the birthday of our “One nation under God”, please dutifully consider, as David Manuel and Peter Marshall asked in their book, “The Light And The Glory” (a must read for every true Christian in America), “Did God have a plan for America?” If yes, was it to be free people “under God” who would boldly share/shine His light/truth and bring Him honor/glory? If one answers yes to that, then honestly contemplate the state of our nation. Have we receded, becoming as those mentioned in Psalms 135:15?

The idols of the nations are but silver and gold, the work of man’s hands.

As we celebrate our nation and freedom this July 4th, may we as one nation acknowledge our exact and proper position/place/standing/rank/status under the one true God while never forgetting the warning and promise found in Jeremiah 18:7-10!

At one moment I might speak concerning a nation or concerning a kingdom to uproot, to pull down, or to destroy it; if that nation against which I have spoken turns from its evil, I will relent concerning the calamity I planned to bring on it. Or at another moment I might speak concerning a nation or concerning a kingdom to build up or to plant it; if it does evil in My sight by not obeying My voice, then I will think better of the good with which I had promised to bless it.

Grace, peace, hope, and freedom for all through Christ Jesus– 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