death

THOUGHTS ON FREEDOM

Posted on May 10, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

Over the past 37 years (primarily ministry since I was 18, with a few years of construction company ownership and management thrown in) I’ve written innumerable articles and taught in excess of 35 lessons on freedom, liberty, independence, etc., and yet the Biblical revelation of these invigorating truths inexhaustibly continues to unfold. Christ is the only liberating agent that brings total freedom to the soul/spirit of humanity. He frees us from the bondage of sin and spiritual death, making true believers the only individuals able to volitionally respond to Him in an appropriate and affirmative manner.

While many creatures obey God simply by doing what they are created to do, or through Him directing their paths unbeknownst to them, only humans, born afresh through faith in Jesus Christ and empowered by His Holy Spirit, clearly distinguish His unique guidance as opposed to behavioral instincts, rote activities, and/or trained responses. In other words, one can get a pet or even wild animal to respond to commands by training, and they even have the opportunity to obey or not. Humans as well can be trained to respond contrary to instinct, desire, or passion.

However, the uniqueness for Christ’s disciples is that we have freedom to hear the Lord, and with clear understanding, not as a robot, surrender one’s will/purpose/agenda to His. In so doing, we freely choose to follow His desire, fully trusting His Holy Spirit to provide the wisdom, resources, and strength needed to faithfully and continuously follow.

Only freedom in Christ makes a believer independently dependent. One is granted opportunity to victoriously overcome any hold that sin, the flesh, the world, or the enemy attempts to extend, or threatens to impose into or over one’s life. Liberty in Christ means one no longer thinks or possesses the understanding, view, perspective, or even the reasoning that those without Christ arduously defend and cling to. Instead, Christ’s followers think, reason, and live independently! Way outside, above and beyond the limited understanding and precepts of unbelievers … even those considered intelligent, genius, and wise in the framework of their own system and human reasoning. That means true believers:

Are not governed by a foreign (anything other than God’s) power
Are free from the influence and control of another individual and/or philosophy
Are free to find value and purpose in things other than those determined to be important and meaningful by their culture, heritage, society, religion, worldly influences, etc.
Are free to rely on Christ (which includes His Word, His Holy Spirit, His people, and His divine institutions of family and church), rather than others for emotional, mental, physical and spiritual support and care
Are free from being dominated or controlled by “other” situations, circumstances, and or variables (known and/or unknown)

Therefore, if Christ’s followers are truly independent of all these things, then what remains? Ideally, an intent, longing desire, and even a love, to place one’s being under the control and dominance of the ultimate power and authority … the ONE who knows you best, created you, placed you in this world at the exact appointed/appropriate time (according to HIS purpose/plan) — even the ONE who sustains the universe and holds everything together.

What a privilege, what a great honor! You, along with every true believer, are eligible and pre-approved to become totally dependent upon the ONE who purchased and delivered your independence!

Quotes from Christ on a similar discussion from John 8:31-38:

If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.
Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is the slave of sin.
So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.
I speak the things which I have seen with My Father; therefore you also do the things which you heard from your father.

Are you free indeed? Think about it, and then choose freedom. I sincerely pray you become independently dependent today.

— Pastor Frank

SIN UNTO DEATH

Posted on May 3, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

Last week, when I was teaching from I John, two mature/growing believers texted me almost the exact same question from I John, but from chapter 5 verses 16-17, rather than from where I was teaching from chapters 1 and 2 in preparation for communion celebration. As a result of their questions, I assumed that perhaps others in the body might have similar questions and deemed it prudent to discuss the issue of “sin unto death.”

First, one must recognize that the Elder and Apostle John is speaking to believers and the immediate context (beginning in verse 14) is that of believers being faithful in praying for one another. However, there is a broader context revealed as well throughout the chapter related to an individual’s relationship with Christ. In addition, the subject passage also reveals several concepts that must be considered astutely relevant if one desires a proper interpretation of the text and/or a meaningful application, as well as an intrinsic spiritual understanding of the phrase “sin unto death.”

TWO PARALLEL OR ANALOGOUS (must be considered side by side without the exclusion of the other) TRUTHS.

According to verses 16 and 17, there is “sin not leading to death.”
According to verse 16, there is “sin leading to death.”

Obviously the discussion of these passages is not that of “original” sin and its encroaching penalty of physical death (see Ecclesiastes 7:20, Romans 3:23). Instead, one discovers a compelling sidebar to the original context that demands intentional consideration of each statement’s meaning, as well as an indispensable awareness of its implication or application.

WHAT WE KNOW SCRIPTURALLY (concerning specific sins leading to physical death):

From the Old Testament
1. Exodus 32 shows God’s wrath upon His people for making and worshiping the calf made of gold.
2. Leviticus 10 represents the one true God as requiring proper loyalty, respect, and honor from His servants when Aaron’s sons are devoured as they offered “strange fire before the Lord.”
3. Numbers 16 finds direct disobedience to the Lord’s instructions is punished severely as the ground opens up and “all that belonged to them went down alive to Sheol.”

From the New Testament
1. I Corinthians 11:28-32 clearly informs all believers concerning the potential consequences of improperly participating in Communion/The Lord’s Supper. One of those negative effects being physical death.
2. Acts 5:1-10 reminds us of extreme/severe consequences suffered by two early church participants related to their improper behavior and misrepresentations.
3. I Corinthians 5:5 presents a process of church discipline where one individual is turned over to “Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.”

Scripturally speaking, sin can apparently lead to both physical and spiritual death. Samson and King Saul serve as good examples of those experiencing spiritual death before their physical bodies ceased functioning. In the New Testament we find Demas, although we are not sure of his authentic salvation, who “loved this present world” … observably he is on death row spiritually. Perhaps in an act of mercy, and/or even to protect His church and His people, the Lord removes those from this world who live in such a manner that their lives serve nothing but fleshly passions and worldly purposes/pursuits. These are experiencing no real blessing, no true presence, nor power, since God’s Holy Spirit is constantly being loutishly quenched.

I’m sure we all know those in this, or similar situations … unquestionably, as well as undeniably, living in miserable mire from a spiritual perspective. This may have been the case in 1 Kings 13, when the disobedient prophet is abruptly and forcibly removed in verse 26, “therefore the Lord has given him to the lion, which has torn him and killed him.” However, in this passage, as is consistent throughout the biblical text, there is not one/some specific sin that automatically results in physical or spiritual death other than the blasphemy of God’s Holy Spirit. (see Matthew 12:31-32)

While the intended specific context of this passage is related to believers praying for one another and the book’s overall context is encouragement for righteous/faithful living, the seriousness of sin in a believer’s life is ominous/threatening to those desiring the abundant life in this world promised by Jesus Christ. Thanks to the Elder/Apostle John, the true, faithful believer is hereby reminded to continually walk/live in the glorious and radiant light/truth of Jesus Christ, finding oneself fully forgiven and free from sin’s eternal encroachment. Graciously, perhaps for proper theological understanding and support, I John also takes into account that even those who walk in the light will indeed sin, but not habitually (due to a transformed nature).

Therefore, he writes these encouraging words to all his brothers and sisters in Christ to keep them from sinning and providing understanding for the heart and soul on the occasion that one stumbles into sinful thoughts and/or behaviors. Remember, Jesus Christ didn’t come to make it easier for one to sin, or to do so with a clear conscience. No, HE came to set us free from the very bonds of sinful thoughts and sinful behaviors. (see Romans 8:2)

Nonetheless, the scriptures insist that when believers sin, they have the ultimate support system, ONE who runs to their aid and to Father God on their behalf (see I John 2:1-2). I know of no other book that takes sin more seriously than 1 John, but make no bones about it, while sin is very serious, and can have some deadly consequences, in Jesus Christ all sin and all sins are fully dealt with — past — present — future! Not that grace may abound … may it never be, but so that each and every believer can live a victorious Christian life in this world as preparation for the life to come!

— Blessings, Pastor Frank

TERRORISM

Posted on May 3, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

The word terrorism does not appear in our biblical text as one may currently employ the word in modern day English. Nonetheless, the Bible clearly addresses the concepts behind terrorism and those that “bring” or “strike” terror. Unquestionably in 21^st century America, and perhaps throughout the modern world, terrorism has become a constant on the minds of most individuals, and has worked to alter our lifestyles in one way or another. Psalm 34:14 offers clear instruction to those who resort to these ungodly, almost inconceivable acts, “Turn away from evil and do good, seek peace and pursue it.” Terrorism is good only in the eyes of those that seek peace through fear, and the destructive power of an ungodly, oppressive, legalistic regime that hides behind the words and works of works-based religious systems, and their false prophets who seek the total annihilation of all their opponents/enemies. Personal peace comes only through a meaningful and dynamic relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ – civil/world peace can only be envisioned and accomplished as Christ is enthroned as KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.

Proverbs 6:16-19 reminds us that:

There are six things that the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that make haste to run to evil, a false witness who breathes out lies, and one who sows discord among brothers.” How many of these traits are easily identified as common attributes of modern day terrorists and terrorism?

Conversely, as believers, we uphold these truths from Romans 12:19-21:

Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.’

To the contrary, ‘if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.’” In addition, certainly we cannot discount the message of Nahum 1:2-3 concerning God’s wrath against Nineveh:

The Lord is a jealous and avenging God; the Lord is avenging and wrathful; the Lord takes vengeance on His adversaries and keeps wrath for His enemies. The Lord is slow to anger and great in power, and the Lord will by no means clear the guilty. His way is in whirlwind and storm, and the clouds are the dust of his feet.

The word “terror” appears at least 7 times in the Old Testament, and all of them are derived from the Hebrew word “pachad” which relates to a sudden feeling of fear; by implication something dreadful; great alarm or being filled/full of fear. That’s the exact goal of modern day terrorism – cause feelings of fear in the hearts and minds of individuals … those being terrorized! In I Chronicles 14, David overwhelmingly defeats the Philistines, and according to verse 17, all the nations were in terror/great (almost paralyzing) fear (Hebrew text) because of him. This is the purposed/intended response of terrorism today, seeing whole communities and nations bow in terror/great (almost paralyzing) fear.

So how then shall we live in a world filled with terrorists and terrorism?

Pray (Ephesians 6:18): When suddenly our culture seems to uncharacteristically crave the necessity of supernatural intervention in the face of evil … we are the only ones with the direct link! So pray diligently.

Help/Take Action (Matthew 25:40): All humans are loved by God and made in His image – a divine creation. WWJD? Minister according to the leadership of God’s Holy Spirit in word and deed/action! A situation of terror will most likely present opportunity for selfless, sacrificial service.

Do Not Fear (II Timothy 1:7): As images of violence, hate, blood and panic flood our computer and television screens, it’s easy to be overcome with fear. Psalm 23:4 … “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” Followers of Christ should be seen as sources of mental/emotional/spiritual strength, courage, comfort and peace in times of trials. Unfortunately, Christians too often respond in the exact opposite manner.

Have/Demonstrate Hope (confident expectation in Christ): May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope! — Romans 15:13

In life’s worst situations, we must look to our Lord Jesus — not government, police, military, media, peers, or others — to stand firm in Christ alone. We live and move by faith in Him under the glorious and far reaching protection of His wings … the omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent ONE – TRUE — GOD! Therefore, prepare now to properly respond should a day of terror rudely assault your life, family, etc.

— Pastor Frank

RESURRECTION

Posted on May 3, 2022May 3, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

We are once again quickly approaching the anniversary of the greatest days in all of human history (His story) — Christ’s matchless atoning and sacrificial death, followed by His unsurpassed victorious resurrection! Biblically speaking, this one event is unquestionably incomparable to any other miracle when one considers its unparalleled theological and spiritual consequences when Christ forever conquers sin and death!

I Corinthians 15:55-57 – O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR VICTORY? O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR STING?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law; but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

While visiting earth, our Lord Jesus clearly explained that all humanity would die and be raised again from the grave at a designated point in the future.

John 5:28-29 – Do not marvel at this; for an hour is coming, in which all who are in the tombs will hear His voice, and will come forth; those who did the good deeds to a resurrection of life, those who committed the evil deeds to a resurrection of judgment.

In this passage, Christ actually reveals that human history awaits not one, but two resurrections. One, a resurrection of, or unto life, and another of, or unto judgment. Needless to say, as true believers, we affirm and avow our belief in a bodily (physical) resurrection. This hope (confident expectation) and promise rests at the cornerstone of our faith, and without it, our Christian beliefs are in vain … God’s promises are merely bursting bubbles of fantasy … the Scripture/Bible is an unreliable source, mendacity … Jesus Christ Himself, the world’s chief imposter and most prevalent scam artist.

I Corinthians 15:16-19 – For if the dead are not raised, not even Christ has been raised; and if Christ has not been raised, your faith is worthless; you are still in your sins. Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. If we have hoped in Christ in this life only, we are of all men most to be pitied.

Many individuals, among them true believers, have been taught and believe that there is one “general” resurrection at the end of the world when all the dead are raised. This is a very serious error, robbing many believers of their joy and victorious Christian living.

Nowhere in the Scriptures are we taught that the bodies of all humans will be raised simultaneously. It is absolutely true that all the dead will be raised at some point and brought into judgment, but neither the time, the place, nor the type of judgments will be the same. Unquestionably, the Bible distinguishes between a believer’s resurrection and that of an unbeliever. Two classes of individuals will be raised, one group to eternal life and immortality, with the other group facing banishment from the Lord’s presence … certainly a “resurrection of life” and a “resurrection of damnation.”

When Paul testified before Felix, he said, “that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust” (see Acts 24:15). John makes the same distinction speaking of the redeemed as those who “lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years” as part of the first resurrection (see Revelation 20:4-6). However, the rest of the dead “lived not again until the thousand years were finished” and subsequently face the “great white throne” of judgment.

Revelation 20:11-15 – Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat upon it, from whose presence earth and heaven fled away, and no place was found for them. And I saw the dead, the great and the small, standing before the throne, and books were opened; and another book was opened, which is the book of life; and the dead were judged from the things which were written in the books, according to their deeds. And the sea gave up the dead which were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead which were in them; and they were judged, every one of them according to their deeds. Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire. And if anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.

At the “Great White Throne” judgment, individuals are assessed “according to their deeds.” However, this judgment is not conclusive. Ultimately every individual who appears at the “Great White Throne” is carefully considered based upon only one issue … is their name “found written in the book of life?” Sadly, but absolutely just, no one’s name is inscribed! This is the second resurrection, that of the “unjust.” (see Acts 24:15) The same omnipotent power that raised our Lord from the dead, and that will reunite our redeemed eternal being with a resurrected body (as seen in Christ), will cause all the “dead” – “the great and the small” to rise and stand before Him who sits upon the throne.

Now, for the good, great news of Christ’s gospel. Every true believer has passed out of death into life (see John 5:24). Our lives are joined with His triumphant, sin and death conquering/overcoming resurrection, and are therefore, “hidden with Christ in God” (see Colossians 3:3). Not only that, but one must vigorously and continuously consider, “the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe.” (see Ephesians 1:19-21).

This power, that we as Christ’s followers, experience now and forever is,

in accordance with the working of the strength of His might which He brought about in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His (The Father’s) right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.

NOW, THAT’S SOMETHING WORTH CELEBRATING EVERY EASTER … actually, how about EVERY SINGLE SUNDAY! Let’s do it together in the presence of His people!

— Pastor Frank

IMMINENT

Posted on April 29, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord. — I Thessalonians 4:15-18

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

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

Therefore be on the alert, for you do not know which day your Lord is coming. But be sure of this, that if the head of the house had known at what time of the night the thief was coming, he would have been on the alert and would not have allowed his house to be broken into. For this reason you also must be ready; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not think He will. — Matthew 24:42-44

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

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

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

Blessings from our Lord above to you and yours always.

— Pastor Frank

RESURRECTION

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

Being raised from the dead has three primary meanings in our Old and New Testament Scriptures.

1. Miraculous Healings In this usage, resurrection refers to individuals who have been brought back to life from death (resuscitated). Such raisings are recorded in: I Kings 17:20-24 (a widow’s son), II Kings 4:32-37 (the Shunammite’s son), and when a dead man’s body touches Elisha’s bones in II Kings 13:21. Mark 5:41-43 records Christ raising Jairus’ daughter, and in John 11:43-44 Lazarus comes alive after already being entombed. Peter is used by the Lord to raise Dorcas in Acts 9:40-41, and Paul ministers resurrection to Eutychus in Acts 20:9-12. It is important to note that in each of these biblically recorded (as witnessed by many) resurrection cases, there is no suggestion or evidence that these individuals would not again experience physical death.

2. Our Lord’s Resurrection His resurrection is undeniably linked in the New Testament with victory over all the powers of both sin and death. For Paul, and us, Christ’s resurrection (as witnessed by many) is the basis for the doctrine of resurrection.

(See I Corinthians 15:12-19)

3. Human Resurrection Many of the Greek philosophers, such as Plato, believed that an immortal soul inhabited a body, and that at death the soul left its bodily prison and soared upward to the divine spirit. In the Old Testament, we learn that “Sheol” is actually the place of the dead, a form of weakened existence. However, it was a faithful Hebrew’s firm belief that the righteous dead would yet again see God. (See Job 19:26) Upon this expectation was laid the foundation concerning the resurrection of righteous individuals to life!

The Hebrew peoples’ concepts of the resurrection were born out of her relationship to God throughout their tumultuous history. The prophet Isaiah seems to express a view that the wicked would face eternal separation from God, while the faithful will come to experience a bodily resurrection. (See Isaiah 26:14 & 19)

In addition, God’s prophet Daniel announced:

Many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, some to shame and everlasting contempt. (See Daniel 12:2)

Our New Testament scriptures consistently teach a hope (confident expectation) in a physical resurrection unto life for every genuine believer, based upon the resurrection of Jesus Christ as the “firstborn from the dead.” (See I Corinthians 15:12-58; Colossians 1:18; I Thessalonians 4:14-18; I Peter 1:3-5) This concept of a physical, bodily resurrection is also expressed in terms such as a transformed body (See Philippians 3:21) and new clothing. (See II Corinthians 5:4; Revelation 6:11) The scriptures also contrast the resurrection unto life with a resurrection unto judgment. (See John 5:29; Acts 24:15) A similar contrast also lies behind the statements in Revelation 20 about the first resurrection (which is that unto life) (See verse 5), and those who are part of the resurrection unto judgment, who ultimately face the lake of fire and the second death. (See verses 12-14)

Sadly, not all who attempted to be identified with Christ’s Church proclaimed the truth of a future resurrection. In fact, some preached a spiritual awakening, or resurrection, that had already taken place. This view point was adopted by Hymenaeus and Philetus and later promoted by Gnostic heretics. Needless to say they were sternly rebuked and condemned by the Apostle Paul. (See II Timothy 2:17-19)

Do you believe in resurrection? If so, let’s gather as genuine believers for a earnest, heartfelt, jubilant celebration on Sunday, April 16! It’s victory over sin and death … a time for rejoicing in the precious gift of life, life abundant and everlasting, which has been bestowed upon us through faith in our Saviour and Lord, Jesus Christ! Let’s do it!

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

— PF

THE DEATH OF DEATH

Posted on March 24, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

Of all the fears that grip the hearts of modern humanity, one of the greatest seems to be the personal fear of one’s impending death. While genuine believers in Christ may not succumb as easily to these fears because of their faith and eternal hope, undoubtedly, terrorism, mass shootings, and the progress of warfare technology has contributed to the fact that many individuals are greatly troubled because death is constantly before everyone’s eyes. Someone, somewhere, in a somewhat remote office or at sea, can launch a missile that successfully finds its target from thousands of miles away, taking out a whole city block and killing thousands, and yet they still have time for a game of tennis or a round of golf after lunch.

Killing is also more efficient than ever … someone, somewhere, sends package bombs through delivery or postal services, someone else, somewhere else, loads up a vehicle with explosives and drives it into an occupied building, someone, somewhere else, decides to take vengeance on relatives and shoots up a church on Sunday morning, someone else, somewhere else goes after fellow students, or teachers and administrators, shooting up a school, or someone, somewhere else decides to eliminate fellow human beings by shooting at hundreds from an advantageous lofty perch. Death is aplenty everywhere, yet II Timothy 1:10 declares that our Savior, Christ Jesus, has abolished death and has brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel.

Hebrews 2:14-15 puts it this way:

Therefore, since the children share in flesh and blood, He Himself likewise also partook of the same, that through death He might render powerless him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, and might free those who through fear of death were subject to slavery all their lives.

The obvious question then is … If death has been “abolished” and is “powerless,” why do we still die? The most palpable answer is that one dies because of sin — See Romans 5:12. Sin always leads to death … not sickness, old age, accidents, cancer, stroke or heart attacks … as long as sin exists, death will never be very far away.

How certain is the fact of death? So certain that there are entire industries built upon the expectation of your death. Life insurance and all funeral/burial related trades are based totally upon the undeniable theological truth: Death reigns! (In reality, even cryonics and cloning.)

How did Jesus Christ then render death to death? When Christ rose from the dead, He resolutely broke the power of death. He died just like we die, just like all humans. According to the recorded accounts, He was really dead (the eye witness account of John 19:31-42), actually dead, fully and completely dead, not partially, or almost dead. He was as dead as any person could be dead. Then, from that state of death, God raised Him to life. He got up, unwrapped the face cloth around His head (See John 20:1-9), and then walked away victorious! (See Luke 24:1-7)

As a result, physical death takes on new meaning for the Christian, being simply a separation from the physical form/shell that we now live in, to await our own physical resurrection in the type of Christ’s. This is exactly what Jesus meant in John 11:25-27 when He said the following:

I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die.

See, there is good news from the graveyard today! There’s an empty tomb in Jerusalem’s Garden Cemetery. It’s the former tomb of Jesus Christ, Who died and was buried (according to Hebrew tradition). However, on Sunday morning His tomb was found to be empty by the power of God Almighty! This is God’s good news message for all humanity! Death could not keep Him, and that grave could not hold Him. Understand, He is truly the Lord of life, the King immortal and eternal (See I Timothy 1:17). How did He render death to death? He conquered death by entering the realm of death in human flesh, then marching out on Resurrection Sunday — triumphant over both sin and death!

In Revelations 1:17-18, Jesus Himself declares:

Do not be afraid; I am the first and the last, and the living One; and I was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of death and of Hades.

As faithful Christians, when it concerns our own physical death, we daily align ourselves with the statement of the Apostle Paul in Philippians 1:21-23, “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. But if I am to live on in the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which to choose. But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better!”

Consider I Corinthians 15:54-57:

DEATH IS SWALLOWED UP in victory. O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR VICTORY? O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR STING?

The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law; but thanks be to God, who gives us (all genuine believers) the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Let’s come together to celebrate life over death, and life over the fear of death because of Christ’s resurrection victory this Sunday morning!

I’m looking forward to seeing you and yours (bring some friends along too).

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

— Pastor Frank

RESURRECTION

Posted on March 21, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

Our New Testament scriptures employ two pairs of Greek terms with reference to our Lord’s resurrection: the verb, anístemi and its derivative noun, anástasis; and the verb, egeírœ, with its noun form, egersis. The noun “egersis” occurs only once, in a reference to Christ’s victorious resurrection (Matthew 27:53). Anástasis is used, almost universally, as the noun for “resurrection” of the dead, which happens in the realm of, and in reference to, human experience!

Now if Christ is preached, that He has been raised from the dead, how do some among you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there is no resurrection of the dead, not even Christ has been raised; and if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is vain, your faith also is vain. Moreover, we are even found to be false witnesses of God, because we testified against God that He raised Christ, whom He did not raise, if in fact the dead are not raised. For if the dead are not raised, not even Christ has been raised; and if Christ has not been raised, your faith is worthless; you are still in your sins. Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. If we have hoped in Christ in this life only, we are of all men most to be pitied. But now Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who are asleep – for since by a man came death, by a man also came the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all will be made alive.
I Corinthians 15:12-22

Obviously, the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the future resurrection of believers is at the very root of our faith/beliefs. His victory over death took the doctrine of the resurrection out of the realm of hopeful, speculative Old Testament eschatology (things to come) into present reality. Henceforth, it became fact … a genuine, historical, documented experience, the basic foundation for authentic Christianity and the promise, assurance for every true believer!

For if we have become united with Him in the likeness of His death, certainly we shall also be in the likeness of His resurrection, knowing this, that our old self was crucified with Him, in order that our body of sin might be done away with, so that we would no longer be slaves to sin; for he who has died is freed from sin. Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, is never to die again; death no longer is master over Him.
For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God. Even so consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus.
Romans 6:5-11

On Sunday morning, April 21st, we, as believers in Christ Jesus, will gather in His name to celebrate not only His victorious, death-conquering resurrection, but also the life we now enjoy in Him — along with our promised, future resurrection in a glorified body to abide with Him forever and ever and ever and ever!

(But God) Raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.
Ephesians 2:6-7

Let’s celebrate Jesus … He has risen, come on and celebrate the resurrection of our Lord!

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

— Pastor Frank

FEAR OF DEATH

Posted on March 9, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

Of all the fears that grip the hearts of modern humanity, one of the greatest seems to be the personal fear of one’s impending death. While genuine believers in Christ may not succumb as easily to these fears because of their faith, undoubtedly COVID-19, mass shootings, the regular flu, terrorism (of all sorts), and the progress of sophisticated warfare technology have contributed to the fact that many individuals are greatly troubled because death is constantly before their eyes. Even serious economic issues can stir up some of these unwelcomed feelings.

Just think, somewhere, somehow, a deadly virus has invaded the human population. While this is actually nothing new, social media, paganism, improper world view, and global news all contribute to the orchestration of unimpeded emotional and mental reactions! It’s almost as if someone in a remote underground bunker or from a weaponized cargo ship launched a deadly missile strike, killing thousands, right in the heart of population centers across the globe! Yes, death is everywhere, from many, many sources, yet II Timothy 1:10 declares that our Savior, Christ Jesus, has “abolished death” and “brought life and immortality to light” through His Gospel!

Hebrews 2:14-15 puts it this way,

Therefore, since the children share in flesh and blood, He Himself likewise also partook of the same, that through death He might render powerless him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, and might free those who through fear of death were subject to slavery all their lives.

The obvious question then is … If death has been “abolished” and is “powerless,” why do we still die? The answer, though unpopular and somewhat alarming, is that one dies because of sin according to Romans 5:12. Sin always leads to death — not sickness (viruses and cancer), old age, accidents, strokes, or heart attacks — as long as sin exists, death will never be very far away.

How sure is the fact of death? So certain that entire industries build upon the expectation of it. Life insurance and all funeral/burial related trades are based totally upon this undeniable truth: death reigns! (In reality, even with cryonics and cloning.) However, Jesus Christ dealt a fatal blow to death and its seemingly unescapable fears! When Christ rose from the dead, He resolutely broke the power of death itself – rendering it powerless! He died just like we die, like every human.

According to the recorded accounts, He was certainly dead (the eye witness account of John 19:31-42) – actually, really, fully, and completely dead, “as dead as door nail.” However, from that state, God raised Him to physical life. He got up, unwrapped the face cloth that was around His head (See John 20:1-9), and walked away victorious (See Luke 24:1-7)! As a result, physical death takes on new meaning for the believer! It’s simply a separation of our soul/spirit from the physical form/shell. At that point, one enters the presence of Christ where we await our own physical resurrection … walking out of our own grave in the type of Christ’s. While the process of death may bring about elements of fear, death itself has no hold on authentic Christians!

In John 11:25-27 our Lord declared,

I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die.

Today, great news comes from a Garden Cemetery in Jerusalem, where there’s a rich man’s empty tomb! It’s the borrowed tomb of Jesus Christ, Who died and was buried (according to Hebrew tradition). However, on Sunday morning, this clearly marked, well known, guarded tomb was found vacant by the power of God Almighty! Death could not keep Him; the grave could not hold Him! He is the Lord of life, the King immortal and eternal (See I Timothy 1:17). He struck down death and its fear by actually entering into the realm of human death. Then, on Resurrection Sunday morning, He marched out – triumphantly victorious over both sin and death!

In Revelation 1:17-18, Jesus Himself declares to the Apostle John,

Do not be afraid; I am the first and the last, and the living One; and I was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of death and of Hades.

Therefore, as faithful Christians, when it concerns our own physical death, we come to align ourselves with the statement of the Apostle Paul in Philippians 1:21-23:

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. But if I am to live on in the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which to choose. But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better!

Consider I Corinthians 15:54-57:

DEATH IS SWALLOWED UP in victory. O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR VICTORY? O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR STING? The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law; but thanks be to God, who gives us (all genuine believers) the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Let’s come together and celebrate – the obituary of death and fear, because of Christ’s resurrection triumph — on Sunday morning, April 12, 2020! Yes, we’re still practicing social distancing guidelines. I’m looking forward to seeing you and yours, if you so choose, on Fear-Defeating, Death-Conquering, Resurrection Sunday 2020!

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

— Pastor Frank