Tag: ephesians

ARMOR

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

As you’re reading this article, it’s likely that I’ve already started teaching on God’s Armor as part of our new year sermon series … “You’ll Need More Sonscreen In Twenty Thirteen.”  We’re all becoming fully equipped to stamp out SINBURN!  However, there are numerous concepts concerning armor presented in God’s Word that should be considered as one heeds the New Testament’s admonition to … “put on the full armor of God” in accordance with Ephesians 6:11. 

Generally speaking, biblical references to “armor” in both the Old and New Testaments refer to military equipment designed for the protection of the body/person, and are clearly distinguished from arms or weapons.  Heretofore, as offensive weapons developed and improved, combatants quickly learned that defensive counter-measures had to be taken in order to ensure a degree of security while engaged in battle. The types of defensive armaments employed depended on the offensive weapon of the attacker(s), on the weapon(s) that complemented the defensive protection, on the required mobility, and upon the nature of each individual battle (e.g., siege, open field, chariot, etc.)

The apostle Paul meticulously and systematically describes the “panoplía” (the New Testament Greek word for armor) and the various defensive armaments of the Roman soldier in Ephesians 6:14-17 (which we’ve been studying).  In this context, the word armor is all inclusive, meaning the inclusion of every individual piece.  However, it’s very interesting to note the occurrence of a seemingly purposeful  overemphasis in the scriptural text, encouraging the absolute need and effectiveness of every piece, thus the “full (nothing excluded) armor (all inclusive) of God.” The superb English translation, “whole” of the Greek text that is found in the American Standard Version and Revised Standard Version — both predecessors of the NASB/NASV (New American Standard)  — is excellent and admirably precise, equally in the sense of a literal translation and the idea or message being conveyed/communicated.     

While the armor was intentionally designed as body protection, to shield vital parts of the warrior, it also required a fit that allowed full mobility of a soldier’s arms and legs.  You may recall the situation in I Samuel 17:4-8.  Goliath was six cubits and a span tall (9’9″), had a bronze helmet, and was clothed with scale-armor which weighed five thousand shekels of bronze (125 pounds). He also had bronze greaves on his legs, a bronze javelin slung between his shoulders, and the shaft of his spear was like a weaver’s beam, with the head weighing in at six hundred shekels (15 lbs).   

In addition, his shield-carrier walked in front of him.  Not only was he  huge, he was fully protected and fully armed … “the whole armor.”  When young David (biblically speaking still in his youth — I Samuel 17:33) determined to take on Goliath, King Saul (I Samuel 17:38-40) clothed David with his armor, including his sword and bronze helmet (a whole or complete armament).  However, David was totally immobilized by the armor … it didn’t fit and he couldn’t walk!  Therefore, David said to Saul:

I cannot go with these, for I have not tested them.

Subsequently, David took off the ill-fitting armor and proceeded against Goliath with the weapons he knew … a stick in his hand, five smooth stones (perhaps one for Goliath and each of his four brothers), and his trusted, proven sling.  

As true believers, enlisted and called as good soldiers (see II Timothy 2:3-4) in our Lord’s army, how can one stand firm or plan to launch a victorious battle against the enemy, if God’s armor lies in a corner without familiarity, untested, not trusted and unproven?  

He trains my hands for battle, so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze.

—David, Psalms 18:34

Can one proceed in the same confidence as David, so familiar with the weapons of our warfare that one would stand upon the irreversible, unalterable conviction that the one and only immutable, omnipotent God is with you?  Is there such proficiency in/with God’s armor (not someone else’s, but that which Christ has designed and provided for you)?  In other words, are your hands trained and ready for war?  Unless one has spent time in God’s whole/full armor, one is obviously and undoubtedly unprepared for the conflicts and giants that lie ahead.

The way of the Lord is a stronghold to the upright, But ruin to the workers of iniquity.

— Solomon (David’s son), Proverbs 10:29

Unquestionably, we … every faithful follower of Jesus Christ, have a few  Goliaths to face and slay!  Some are 10′ tall and others, miniature in proportion.  Nonetheless, we have a duty and calling — stand firm, having “put on the full armor of God.”  Then, as you are trained and learn to be effective in His battle apparatus, mobilize your resources and cast a defeating blow into the forehead of your enemy (the darkness of this age), mercilessly severing its head.  Certainly the time has come!

— Pastor Frank   

MISSION TRIP 2014 PART I

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

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

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

— Ephesians 3:20-21

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

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

— II Corinthians 5:14-15

For not one of us lives for himself, and not one dies for himself;  for if we live, we live for the Lord, or if we die, we die for the Lord; therefore whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s.     

— Romans 14:7-8

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

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

— Titus 2:6-8

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

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

— II Corinthians 8:1-6

– MISSION TRIP 2014 – OUR PURPOSE –

  1. Introduce children & youth to Jesus Christ!  We strategically plan to provide every child with an opportunity to experience Christ’s love, coming to know forgiveness of sin and salvation that He alone offers.  See I Timothy 2:3-7
  • Provide opportunity for WOF’s youth and young adults, as well as those from other churches, to participate in a meaningful, life-changing ministry event where they are the Lord’s primary ministers/servants.  See I Timothy 4:12
  • Assist other churches/ministries in their efforts to reach a community with Christ’s message of grace and forgiveness.  See Romans 16:1-2
  • Provide a unique opportunity for WOF youth to serve and minister alongside youth from other churches/ministries.  See Psalm 33:1
  • See the purposes of God accomplished as both youth and adult believers work together in unity.  See John 17:22-23

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

See John 4:35      

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

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

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

— Pastor Frank  

TOLERANCE

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

Tolerance, in our current culture, both politically and socially, is often defined as open-mindedness, broadmindedness, leniency, acceptance, and forbearance. Consequently, as Bible believing, evangelical Christians, we are often accused by unbelievers, as well as some religionists, of being totally intolerant.  Isn’t it interesting that those that strive to accuse faithful believers of intolerance have no room in their philosophy for our views or beliefs, which in essence clearly displays their own shrewd, hardheaded, hypocritical intolerance?  Perhaps, with that in view, we should consider the teachings of our Lord, Jesus Christ in Luke 6:22, recognizing that we are blessed when others reject us due to our faith in Him!

Paul Thomas Mann (1875-1955 — a German novelist, short story writer, social critic, philanthropist, essayist, 1929 Nobel Prize in Literature) once stated, “Tolerance becomes a crime when applied to evil.”   That quote should boldly and unreservedly challenge every Christian to consider one’s own view/perspective of “tolerance.”  While it may be very difficult to distinguish between a political/social view and that of a purely biblical perspective, the Truth of God’s Word should serve as the unshakable foundation for every believer’s political/social view of tolerance!  Committed, Bible believing Christians are actually some of the most “tolerant” people on the face of the earth.  We don’t kill those that disagree with us, nor do we condemn individuals whose values and behavior doesn’t align with ours.  In I Corinthians 6:9-11 we are reminded of the absolute, inalterable Truth: … 

Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God?  Do not be deceived; neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate (by perversion), nor homosexuals,  nor thieves, nor the covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God.  Such were some of you; but you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the Spirit of our God. (Also see Galatians 4:8)

While our Lord may appear to be tolerant of sin, in reality He is  completely intolerant of sin (See Ezekiel 18:20 & Romans 5:12).  However, He graciously and mercifully provides all humanity with a way out of their sin, as well as an escape from one’s past and the dominating control of human nature! 

 But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together]with Christ (by grace you have been saved).  — Ephesians 2:4-5

For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God.  — Ephesians 2:9

Then, as believers, we become intolerant of sin in our own lives because one’s nature has changed, and God’s transformation process creates in true believers a desire to be “Holy, as He is Holy” (See I Peter 1:16 & I Peter 2:5) in contrast to remaining a sin-filled individual and living according to values and ideals that stand in contradiction to God’s Word and His Truth.

Needless to say, the concept of tolerance becomes difficult due to the fact that God loves every human being in spite of his or her sin, but at the same time literally hates sin (See Proverbs 6:16).  Unquestionably, the original definition of tolerance and the way in which the word is used today are quite different. Tolerance once meant acknowledgement of differing beliefs and accepting that others had the right to believe differently. In this way, we as believers are to be absolutely tolerant.  

However, since tolerance has come to mean accepting that other beliefs are valid or true … we must reject those beliefs – and even stand against them when they are sin and promote values contrary to those of our God!  Actually, to embrace the world’s type of tolerance makes no logical sense and precludes any personal opinion or belief in full acceptance of whatever other belief may be presented.  Therefore, tolerance, as it’s now presented, rejects the possibility that objective truth actually exists, even though Jesus Christ came to give/reveal truth (See  John 1:14, John 1:17, John 8:32, & Romans 6:16-23).

 
Christians can acknowledge the right of others to have different beliefs, however, we cannot allow those beliefs to go unchallenged.  Therefore, it’s inevitable that the world will call us intolerant, but we can mitigate the damage by being intolerant in the way God instructs us. First, we must know what we believe (See I Peter 3:15).  Second, we must effectively share and teach what we believe and why we believe it  (See II Timothy 2:23-26).  Certainly we are called to tolerate – and even to love — people, yet without accepting their false beliefs, sin packed values, and humanistic/pagan/hedonistic agendas.                

— Pastor Frank

MOHAMMED V JESUS

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Mohammed was the prophet of war;

       Christ is the Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6-7)

Mohammed’s disciples killed for the faith;

       Christ’s disciples were killed for their faith. (Acts 12:2; II Timothy 4:6-7)

Mohammed promoted persecution against the “infidels”;          

Christ forgave and converted even His chief persecutor. (I Timothy 1:13-15)

Mohammed was the taker of life;

       Christ is the giver of life. (John 10:27-28)

Mohammed and his fellow warriors murdered thousands;

       Christ murdered none but saved mllions. (John 12:46-48)

Mohammed practiced FORCE;

       Christ practiced and preached FAITH. (John 6:29, 35)

Mohammed was a WARRIOR;

       Christ is a DELIVERER. (Col. 1:13; I Thess. 1:10)

Mohammed said to the masses, “Convert or die!”;

       Christ said, “Believe and live!” (John 6:47; 11:25-26)

Mohammed was swift to shed blood (see the evil spoken of in Romans 3:15-17);

       Christ shed His own blood for the salvation of many. (Ephesians 1:7)

Mohammed preached “Death to the infidels!”;

       Christ declared “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34)

Mohammed declared a holy war (Jihad) against infidels;

       Christ achieved a holy victory on Calvary’s cross (Colossians 2:14-15) and His followers share in that victory. (John 16:33)

Mohammed constrained people by conquest;

       Christ constrains people by love. (II Corinthians 5:14)

Modern terrorists derive their inspiration from Mohammed and carry out their despicable atrocities in the name of his god;

Christians derive their inspiration from the One who said, “Blessed are the peacemakers.” (Matthew 5:9)

Modern day disciples of Mohammed respond to the terrorist attacks by cheering in the streets;

Modern day disciples of Christ are deeply grieved by atrocities carried out by those who were   “Christians” in name only (the Crusades, the Spanish Inquisition, Westboro Baptist Church, etc.).

Many Muslims claim to be peaceful and peace-loving because they are not strictly following the teachings of their founder;

Many Christians are peaceful and peace-loving because they do strictly follow the teachings of their Founder. (Romans 12:17-21)

Mohammed called upon his servants to fight;

Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world; if My kingdom were of this world, then would My servants fight . . . but now is My kingdom not from here.” (John 18:36)

Mohammed ordered death to the Jews (see A. Guillaume, The Life of Muhammad, Oxford University Press [1975], p. 369);     

Christ ordered that the Gospel be preached “to the Jew first.” (Romans 1:16)

The Koran says, “Fight and slay the Pagans (idolaters, polytheist) wherever ye find them” (Qu’ran 9.5);

Christ said, “Preach the Gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15)

Mohammed’s mission was to conquer the world for Allah;

Christ’s mission was to conquer sin’s penalty and power by substitutionary atonement, (II Corinthians 5:21;I Peter 3:18)

Mohammed claimed that there was but one God, Allah;

Christ claimed that He was God. (John 10:30-31; John 8:58-59; John 5:18; John 14:9)

Mohammed’s Tomb: OCCUPIED!  No assurance of eternal life.

Christ’s tomb: EMPTY!  Full assurance of life.  (John 3:16)

JIHAD VS THE GOSPEL Jihad is the “peak” of Islam, held up by the five and the second greatest command of Muhammad. It is not only commended, but clearly commanded in the Quran. Even though the crusades ended many centuries ago, Islamic Jihad is carried   out right now, to this day! Millions of people have been slaughtered throughout the centuries by Islamic militants – such as in 1915, the slaughter of 1.5 millions Armenians in Turkey. Christians have continued to be slaughtered by Islamic militants throughout the world as well. We don’t kill people because they fail to believe, instead we pray!

Therefore, before faithful New Testament believers buy into the lie of this so called “peaceful religion” or accept some responsibility for the atrocities of the Catholic endorsed crusades, which ended over 700 years ago … it would be extremely wise to first learn from reliable sources what the crusades were all about, study Islamic teachings, and consider the track record of Jihad over the last 14 centuries.

Do it!                                                          His & Yours, Pastor Frank

POWER

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

This word throughout the biblical text is indicative of might, strength, and force.  It is used in the Old Testament to render many Hebrew words like that for valor, rule, and dominion.  The principal words for “power” in the New Testament are ‎dunamis‎, from which we get the word dynamite in English, and ‎exousia which refers to jurisdiction over a certain realm, a right, privilege, or ability.  In Mark 3:15 and 6:7 Jesus gives His followers authority over demons and/or unclean spirits; and in Ephesians 1:21 Christ Himself is depicted with strength, “far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and (above and over) every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.” Romans 9:21 reinforces this understanding of “power” when asking, “does not the potter have a right over the clay?”

This type of “power” is attributed preeminently to God, whose absolute attribute of omnipotence (almighty, all-powerful) is referenced in I Chronicles 29:11-13:    

Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, indeed everything that is in the heavens and the earth;  Yours is the dominion, O Lord, and You exalt Yourself as head over all.  Both riches and honor come from You, and You rule over all, and in Your hand is power and might; and it lies in Your hand to make great and to strengthen everyone.  Now therefore, our God, we thank You, and praise Your glorious name.

In Revelation 7:12 the testimony of God’s power is expressed as those gathered around the throne fall on their faces and declare,   

Amen, blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might, be to our God forever and ever.  Amen.

God’s supreme manifestation of this “power,” as in His wisdom, His mercy, His grace, and His love, is redemption.

For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.  — I Corinthians 1:18

For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not come to know God, God was well-pleased through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe.  For indeed Jews  ask for signs and Greeks search for wisdom; but we preach Christ crucified, to Jews a stumbling block and to Gentiles foolishness, but to those who are the called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.     — I Corinthians 1:21-2

In addition, the preaching of Christ’s gospel is often accompanied by a display, manifestation, or demonstration of “power” as affirmed in I Corinthians 2:4.  Paul reminds us in I Thessalonians 1:5 that this transforming message of grace, forgiveness, love, joy, peace, and hope, “did not come to you in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction!”  Miracles are also noted by Jesus Christ, when translated literally, as “works of power” in reference to His own supernatural ministry on earth in Matthew 11:21, 23.  

As we’ve been studying on Sunday mornings and most recently on Wednesday evenings, we, as faithful followers of JC, recognize and are fully aware of these truths.

1.  The power of God raised Christ from the dead.

2.  That same power will raise all true believers who are Christ’s as part of the first resurrection.

3.  This power, God’s supernatural, incomparable, immeasurable, restorative, rejuvenating omnipotence, resides within us.

Therefore, we shall not be moved, we shall remain steadfast through all things (even physical persecution which may lay at our doorstep) in the hope and confidence of our Lord, Jesus Christ and His provision of great “power” … “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.” I  John 4:4.  In the consideration of “power” I’m challenging all of us to study, meditate upon, and fully embrace  II Timothy 1:7:

For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power (dunámeoos – dynamite) and love and discipline.

His & Yours, PF

HONOR

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

Last Sunday Brenda and I were honored by the presentation of a beautiful appreciation award commemorating 30 years of service at Grace Ministries & Fellowship, now known as West Oaks Fellowship (since our relocation to Richmond Ave). I was deeply moved and humbled by your recognition of my service to this body of Christ and to our Lord.  Even though I successfully held back a public display of emotion for the purpose of moving on in that particular service, which I believed was very important, I could have wept; and certainly, I wanted to speak and express my thanks — but time would not allow.

Nonetheless, it’s difficult to adequately articulate or effectively express how grateful I am for the honor that’s been bestowed upon us by you, the congregation of West Oaks Fellowship, as well as the Lord, Jesus Christ.  He  provided this implausible opportunity and unique occasion for me to serve as His under shepherd and your lead pastor since the founding of this ministry in mid June 1985.  Unquestionably, it’s been a lifelong journey of tears, pain, and disappointments, always consistently and steadfastly outweighed by magnificent victories, immeasurable blessings, and the incomparable and unsurpassed joy of seeing our Lord at work — transforming and shaping many lives into His glorious image!   Thank you.   

The idea of honor is something distinct and significant in the lives of faithful believers when compared to that bestowed upon fellow humans by a secular society/civilization, which generally chooses to honor individuals for some form/type of human achievement.   

Similarly, Romans 13:5 instructs and encourages believers to …

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

The Greek word translated “honor” in this text is “timeén,” pronounced “tee-may” and means to value, money paid as a tribute, to esteem (especially to the highest degree), and/or the idea of dignity itself.  However, in Hebrews 5:4 this word is used differently in reference to the honor being afforded an individual who is called out by the Lord God for a specific or unique task in His work.  In this case, Aaron is set apart for the ministry of the Hebrew priesthood. 

In Hebrews 2:9, our Lord, Jesus Christ, is rightly crowned with the highest “honor” on account of His sufferings and willingness to experience death on our behalf …

who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (See Hebrews 12:2) 

Here one sees the Lord worthy of honor as the answer to humanity’s dilemma. Christ came in the flesh so that He might suffer and die for mankind’s sin and restore us into a relationship with God that was lost as a result of our sin.  As the Lord ministered here on earth, He clearly exercised supreme authority over many aspects of creation; and then as the second/last Adam (see I Corinthians 15:45),

Jesus Christ was established with glory and honor…

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.” (see Ephesians 1:21)  Accordingly, today and forever, all things are … yes everything is … in “subjection under His feet! (see Ephesians 1:22)

Spiritually and biblically speaking, true honor comes from the Lord and is granted to humanity in numerous forms … children, positions of responsibility and service in His church, career and leadership opportunities in business and society, etc. In reality, humans honor other humans, but the Lord honors all humanity first through their position in creation, then distinctly and uniquely as His people!  Shall we therefore honor Him?  “Worthy are You, our Lord and our God to receive glory and honor and power.”

Just do it! — PF

FORGIVENESS

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Several words, from both the Greek and Hebrew, are used to convey the idea of forgiveness throughout our biblical text.

1) Apoluein (Gk),as used by Christ in Luke 6:37, is translated pardon, and or “forgive.” Thus, the analogy in this verse provides instruction to “forgive” and in turn, one will be “forgiven,” because the actual meaning of this word relates to the full release of a debt and/or the punishment due the perpetrator as a result of sin.

2) In Romans 3:25, Paul uses ‎paresis (Gk), ‎translated remission, in relation to humanity’s sinful nature and deeds — meaning to “forgive” by putting away or aside completely and unreservedly/absolutely!    

‎3) Charizesthai (Gk) (found only in the writings of apostles Luke and Paul) expresses, as no other word or words possibly can express, the concept of God’s pardon and “forgiveness” through grace (unmerited and/or undeserved favor) as articulated in Colossians 2:13!

“And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses.”

4) Kaphar ‎(Heb) is found in Old Testament scriptures and refers exclusively to divine “forgiveness” as in Psalm 78:38!

But He, being compassionate, forgave their iniquity and did not destroy them; And often He restrained His anger and did not arouse all His wrath.

5) In I Kings 8:30, one finds the word calah ‎(Heb) as Solomon stands before the Lord’s altar and humbly cries out for God’s (divine) “forgiveness” . . . “Listen to the supplication of Your servant and of Your people Israel, when they pray toward this place; hear in heaven Your dwelling place; hear and forgive.”

6) Nasa’ (Heb) in the Old Testament scriptures also refers to divine pardon or “forgiveness” as well as that of pardon or “forgiveness” granted by one human to another.  A perfect example of this is found in I Samuel 25 where Abigail appeals to King David on behalf or her husband, Nabal (vs 32-34):

Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, who sent you this day to meet me, and blessed be your discernment, and blessed be you, who have kept me this day from  bloodshed and from avenging myself by my own hand.

“Forgiveness,” generally speaking, is not a virtue of pagan religions, societies, or cultures.  The big-hearted human might flamboyantly disregard offences in cases where he/she considers the wrongdoing or debt to be insignificant and/or beneath one’s notice, but to “forgive” was by and large considered weak-spirited.  Even in the Old Testament Hebrew traditions, “forgiving” another for a wrong, or a debt, is infrequent.  However, there are cases where individuals are found asking for “forgiveness” from a position of subservience. In such cases, a person is petitioning for that which one has no just or granted right(s). (See Genesis 50:17; Exodus 10:17; I Samuel 15:25) However, we as true and faithful believers of Jesus Christ have a much higher calling — in fact, according to Colossians 3:12-13 and Ephesians 4:32, we are instructed to “forgive one another just as God in Christ also forgave you.”

Most have heard the quote by Alexander Pope, “to err is human; to forgive divine.”  In reality, because of our new nature in Christ, we have been given the opportunity to participate in, and partake of, this divine event!  Certainly a true mark and distinguishing characteristic of a Christ-centered, Bible-believing, New Testament church/ministry — where relationships are more important than programs — is the continual (on-going) practice of Christ’s instruction to His disciples in Matthew 18:21-22! 

Then Peter came and said to Him, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him?  Up to seven times?”    (no doubt expecting some accolade)  Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.”

How many times?                          

Let’s do this, Pastor Frank           

ABUNDANT

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The word “abundant” is used throughout our Old Testament scriptures to describe Yahweh’s unlimited love and His covenant faithfulness. The authors readily confess that their God is abounding in (Hebrew ‎ra»-µese¼‎‎), or has an abundance of (Hebrew rœ» µese¼‎) steadfast love!

Psalm 86:5

For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive, and abundant in lovingkindness to all who call upon You.

    Isaiah 63:7

I shall make mention of the lovingkindnesses of the Lord, the praises of the Lord, according to all that the Lord has granted us, and the great goodness toward the house of Israel, which He has granted them according to His compassion and according to the abundance of His lovingkindnesses.

In Isaiah 55:7, the Lord’s prophet calls upon the people of Israel to repent of their wickedness and return to Yahweh, “for He will abundantly pardon” (Hebrew ‎yarbeh lislô(a)µ‎, literally meaning to “multiply pardon”).

In the New Testament, (Greek gk perisseúœ‎, hyperperisseúœ‎) abound, abundance, abundant, and abundantly are usually translated — “to be or make extremely rich” — “to overflow” — “cause to overflow” or “to be present in greater abundance” as proclaimed concerning God’s grace in Romans 5:20-21:

The Law came in so that the transgression would increase; but where sin increased, grace abounded all the more, so that, as sin reigned in death, even so grace would reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

The familiar passage of scripture in John 10:10 speaks of an “abundant” life afford those who truly believe in Jesus Christ:

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.

The Biblical text repeatedly warns against putting one’s trust in the abundance of material things. In Psalm 37 we are advised against envy when seeing the wicked prosper … knowing that they, along with their wealth, will be destroyed, and that the Lord is faithful to preserve those who put their faith/full trust in Him. (see Psalm 37)  Therefore, the little that the righteous may have is ultimately better than the abundance of the wicked (see Psalm 37:16).  Consider:

Proverbs 15:16

Better is a little with the fear of the Lord, Than great treasure and turmoil with it.

Proverbs 16:8

Better is a little with righteousness, Than great income with injustice.

Unquestionably, Yahweh promised — and gave — to Israel an abundance of material blessings (see Deuteronomy 28:11); but He also warned that if this prosperity did not lead to the faithful service it could/would be taken away (see Deuteronomy 28:47). In fact, this is exactly what happened to Israel, as prophesied by Ezekiel (see 7:11) and recounted by Ezra (see Nehemiah 9:25).

Nonetheless, Israel was promised that when she repented of her disobedience, her fortunes would be restored and she would experience prosperity greater than she had known before (see Deuteronomy 30:9; Isaiah 66:10; Jeremiah 31:12-14; 33:6-9; Ezekiel 36:29). Therefore, it appears that God’s desire throughout history (HIS STORY) has always been to abundantly bless His people.  

In the NT, abundance takes on many forms much greater than that of material possessions. Knowing abundance is an absolute characteristic of one’s new life obtained through genuine salvation — faith in Christ Jesus!  This abundance is unlike anything previously known, and is stimulated by spiritual growth. The Lord’s abundance is appropriated (poured out, received and acted upon) in every Christian’s life to bring about complete transformation.

This fullness is not manifested in the realm of material blessings, but in the abundance of grace that is, according to the scriptures, lavished upon His Church (see Ephesians 1:3-14). Thus the believing, Christian community is empowered to do far more than it could dare to imagine (see Ephesians 3:20)!  

While the NT does not denounce material abundance, it stresses its imperfect value and its dangers. Jesus warned that “a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions” (see Luke 12:15).  Remember, Paul testified that he had learned to face both material abundance and deprivation with equanimity (see Philippians 4:12).  One value of material abundance lies in the opportunity it provides for generosity (see II Corinthians 8:14); and to those who give generously, there is the promise that:

God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that you may always have enough of everything and may provide in abundance for every good work.

In this regard, my consistent prayer for all of us at WOF is that each one will prosper and be in good health, even as one’s soul prospers.  — From III John 2                          

II Corinthians 9:8

His & Yours, PF

AMERICA

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

When one thinks about America, what pops into your mind?  Currently, the greatest nation on earth?  What a blessing it is to be an American?  The “land of the free” and “the home of the brave?”  A nation once again thrown into the divisiveness of minority/equal rights struggles?  A country at war with terrorism?  A people embattled with economic, health-care, social security, immigration, and defense issues?  Perhaps we are seeing what once upon a time may have been referred to as a “Christian” or “Judeo-Christian” America/nation, quickly sinking into the vast cavity and hollowness of pagan secularism. 

In addition, while I’m not proposing that these United States of America were ever 100% Christian, nor were its founding fathers all believers in the Jesus Christ of the Bible, or our faith and practice, unquestionably these brave individuals were influenced by a both a belief in deity and fear/respect of Almighty God! Nonetheless, in these latter times of the “Information Age,” is it possible that our nation’s obsession and quest for data, digital communication, and information has actually exalted itself above a need/desire for God?  In II Timothy 3, the scriptures declare that difficult times will come, and thus issue a clear and distinct warning concerning this scenario. All those who choose to listen and truly/faithfully believe, are provided with the Lord’s counsel concerning those who are “lovers of money” and “lovers of self,”  that they are, or always will be, “learning and/but (are) never able to come to the knowledge (or understanding) of the truth!” They would rather have gratification and information than become subject to the transformation of our Lord and the presence/indwelling of His Holy Spirit!

Doesn’t all information require proper sorting and thorough sifting before it can be effectively applied to any situation?  As faithful believers, we must, “take every thought captive” (II Corinthians 10:5-6) by applying the discerning and discriminating filter of God’s Holy Word/Truth to each and every slice of information that comes our way.  One might ask, “Exactly how does one select information and use it in the process of personal transformation?”  When it comes to a nation, or people group, how does one determine the authenticity and proper value/importance of information, and then select and process pertinent information in order to affect or impact national transformation?

Listed below you’ll find some biblically-based concepts, that if incorporated into your Christian life and that as an American, will help provide some spiritual understanding as we move into the difficulties of serving Christ within the framework of a pagan secular society.  

  • Confront current issues with an eternal perspective (divine viewpoint).  (See Colossians 3:1-2)
  • Move your personal life “from information to transformation (in Christ Jesus) … from rhetoric to righteousness (living righteously)… from finger-pointing and blame-shifting to personal responsibility.  (See Titus 2:11-14)
  • Stop being a labeler . . .  we must avoid labeling. Labels have become “libels” (vilifications).  (See Ephesians 4:31) They increasingly paralyze relationships, legitimate conversation, communication and the exchange of creative and/or beneficial ideas.
  • Be committed to the restoration of Biblical/Scriptural authority in every aspect of one’s life. (See II Timothy 3:16-17)  It is not talk, but living the truth, which has the potential to restore the foundations of faith and freedom in Christ’s church and our society/nation.
  • Always remember, we are first Christians! God did not call us to be conservative, liberal or libertarian, but men and women of faith in Jesus Christ and His Word. We must call things as they are (by “The Book”) (See Ephesians 5:25) — not by our political persuasions, political correctness, or in light of our rhetoric defined by any/various label(s).
  • Never forget, we speak the truth in love when confronting issues, as well as people who disagree with us.  (See Philippians 2:3-4)  People are sinful and driven by fleshly passion(s)  … we all know that!  (See Ephesians 2:1-5)  Therefore, let us rise above with a proper attitude towards every individual, because every human is created in the image and likeness of God — whether we agree with their lifestyle or not! Our attitude towards the confused, lost, and dying world speaks volumes.  (See James 3:8- 18) 
  • We must overturn the rotting logs and mossy rocks that hide our personal sins (See Psalm 32:1-5) as well as those of our nation (See Proverbs 14:34) . . . openly, yet honestly confronting the deepest issues of our society and Americans’ hearts and homes.
  • Let’s be solution-oriented . . . not just provide tough talk. (See James 2:14-26) Transformation can always occur — even in the toughest and most troubled times! Let’s demonstrate Christian hope and Christ’s healing in our own hearts and homes, as well as for America’s broken families and our nation/society. (See II Timothy 2:23-26)

By employing these concepts and principles, we might just see a genuine transformation.

Don’t just think about it, let’s do it! — PF

ANGER/ANGRY

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

Do we live in an “angry” world?  Seems everywhere one turns someone is “angry” about something!  What does one really need to understand in order to control the emotional, stressful, hateful, sometimes extremely violent, enraged, or even vengeful, outbursts or other displays of anger, which include deep-rooted bitterness and even clamming up (silent treatment)?  How does an individual find genuine healing from the conflicts within one’s own heart/spirit, as well as others’ hurt feelings, the experiences of social isolation, and a trail of damaged relationships spoiled by uncontrolled and improperly managed “anger” which is horrifically destructive?   

Proverbs 29:11 declares:

A fool always loses his temper, But a wise man holds it back.

 In Colossians 3:8 faithful believers are reminded of  their strength through new life in Christ Jesus:

 But now you also, put them all aside: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive speech from your mouth.

James 1:19-21 also speaks plainly and distinctly:

But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God.

Yes, we all know, and are possibly too familiar with, the words of human justification, reasoning/reckoning, and rationalization — “I just can’t/couldn’t help it!” or the blame-shifting response of _______________ (the devil, whomever, whatever) made me do it!” 

I’m often amazed how Christians stumble right into this lie and fail to understand that “anger” and what we do with our “anger” is a choice (that’s even true in a case of being “angry without sin” as referenced in Ephesians 4:26). People routinely get angry at others, situations, things, circumstances, themselves, and even God, but in each event, one ultimately decides if “anger” is the reasonable choice/option.

We even choose how much anger to display, and selectively pick the style exhibited to various people, generally based upon feelings and the condition of existing, or non-existing relationships with that individual, thing, circumstance, or situation. In addition, many will choose “anger” to manipulate, control or dominate a certain individual/situation. Being or becoming “angry” may also be used as a form of communication or emotional expression to those we hold dear (loved ones, close friends, spouses, children, etc.). If that is the case, one must ask, “what is actually being communicated?” because “anger” is a devastating, destructive and divisive force that must be checked in the lives of every true follower of Jesus Christ.   

Consider Proverbs 14:29:

He who is slow to anger has great understanding, But he who is quick-tempered exalts folly.

Do parents refuse to hug, love, or even properly discipline their children because they are angry?  Do husbands and wives deny one another care, concern, and intimacy because of their anger? Do employees waste time, or employers refuse proper compensation due to anger?  Are friendships damaged, ruined, and even severed on a routine basis because of anger?  It just goes on and on, invading lives and our society! Did KKK members formerly hang American black men because they were angry?  Are police officers of all nationalities being assassinated today because of anger?  Billy Graham once said, “Hot heads and cold hearts never solved anything.”

TRUTH: Either we control our “anger” or “anger” will control us, because one’s “anger” is always that of one’s own choosing!  In reality, that’s the first step to healing … recognizing that any time you’re angry, you determine that this is the path you prefer, and any emotional displays of that “anger” is also your own choice. 

Second, when dealing with “anger” one must run headlong to the Lord!  He has promised to be our strength and help in any/every time of trouble (See Psalm 46:1) … any unbridled, sinful anger, is trouble for you and everyone around you!

Psalm 37:8

Cease from anger and forsake wrath; Do not fret; it leads only to evildoing.

Third, in the life of a true Christian, unchecked “anger” generally represents a lack of godly character, and a loss of control over one’s  own thoughts and behavior/actions. This fails to represent righteousness, but instead, the sinful nature of a carnal/fleshly mind that should be surrendered to God’s alteration! (See Romans 8:5-8). 

By learning to properly handle anger, we will empower healing of damaged relationships and make our daily lives more peaceful, rewarding, and meaningful … all to HIS glory!

                  Together, let’s rid Christ’s Church of this menace … anger!  — PF