Tag: exodus

HOLINESS

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

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

“Holiness, holiness

Is what I long for

Holiness is what I need

Holiness, holiness

Is what You want from me.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pastor Frank

JUSTICE

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

This word is tossed around like a hot potato or kicked around like a soccer ball in our modern society.  So misused, so distorted and abused, its meaning is becoming insensately meaningless.  Does anyone really know what’s meant or intended when someone passionately cries out or humbly appeals for “justice?”  Has the whole idea of justice become simply what one thinks or believes is right in a given situation within the framework of certain circumstances? 

It’s interesting to note that in both the Old and New Testaments, the Hebrew and Greek  words for “justice” are generally translated or rendered the same …  “righteousness” in our English Bibles.  While this may not seem important, it is highly significant because spiritually and scripturally speaking these two ideas are essentially the same.  Therefore, one must keep this in mind when reading and/or studying the biblical text, and not insert a modern, human, westernized definition or understanding of either word (which one may tend to do).    

In the Old Testament, a lot of emphasis is placed upon human justice, primarily dealing with one’s conduct in relation to others, especially in regard to the property, privileges, and rights of others. It applied to business — where just weights and measures are demanded (Leviticus 19:35-36; Deuteronomy 25:13-16; Amos 8:5; Proverbs 11:1; 16:11; Ezekiel 45:9-10). It is demanded in courts — where the rights of rich and poor, Israelite and sojourner, are equally to be regarded.  Neither station, nor bribe, nor popular clamor, shall influence judges or witnesses.  In actuality, all of God’s people are instructed . . .

Justice, justice shalt thou follow (Deuteronomy 16:18-20; Exodus 23:1-3,6-9). 

This justice is what we, as faithful believers/followers, might call, “righteous living” — as contrasted with the wickedness and evil of those who fail to fear God and/or give due respect to other human beings.  Remember the parable of the “unrighteous judge” in Luke 18:1-8?  Jesus stated that he, “did not fear God and did not respect man” . . . So why was he called an unrighteous judge? 

In a broader sense, justice is not only honoring others by granting them their rights, but may actually involve the duty and/or activity of establishing someone else’s rights.  Remember the problem found in Acts 6:1-6, Christ’s first church meeting in Jerusalem? A specific group of individuals were being overlooked in the fellowship.  It did not matter if that was intentional or unintentional, it simply wasn’t appropriate/right. 

Therefore, justice was needed/demanded, and was promptly and forthrightly established!  Those living righteously were, in an unprecedented manner, able to establish righteousness/justice for all.  Please note, this wasn’t through the establishment of a governmental program or action, but the supreme  execution of a better system . . . righteous people simply doing righteousness, thus justice was established and prevailed!  In addition, consider the outward impact that occurred as His Church successfully resolved (without any outside influence) an internal problem —

The word of God kept on spreading; and the number of the disciples continued to increase greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were becoming obedient to the faith.

Throughout the scriptures, the idea of seeking justice means to:

  1. “relieve the oppressed”
  2. “aid the fatherless”
  3. “plead for and assist the widow” (Deuteronomy 24:12-13; Isaiah 1:17, 11:4; Jeremiah 22:15-16; Psalms 37:21,26, 82:2-4, 112:4-6).  

However, this conception of justice falls short of its full spiritual denotation and significance. Remember, biblically speaking, the concept of justice and/or righteousness is essentially the same. That idea becomes even more profound and focused within the spiritual, moral, and ethical aspects of a New Testament Christian’s life. It’s a matter of character, not some wishful norm of good human behavior.  For believers, the absolute, prevailing standard is clearly established in 1 John 3:7:

Little children, make sure no one deceives you; the one who practices righteousness is righteous, just as He is righteous; the one who practices sin is of the devil; for the devil has sinned from the beginning.

A mere give-and-take justice, defined by humans for humans, is not justice at all, and it is consistently never/not enough! The unfailing ideal is righteousness/justice, not simply extra rights or more privileges that somehow are supposed to give the less-advantaged the advantage. Yes, “the folly of fools is foolishness” (Proverbs 14:24) and “The naive inherit foolishness.“ (Proverbs 14:18)  While the ways of humanity may seem right to humanity (see Proverbs 16:2), God clearly reveals that even American justice is supremely deficient and flawed, because those that live justly/righteously are the only ones qualified to identify, establish, and implement true justice!  Think about it –

How blessed are those who keep justice, who practice righteousness at all times!(Psalms 106:3)

May the just arise from among us, may the righteous step up!

                   — His & Yours, Pastor Frank

DWELL

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

In Exodus 25:8 God said, “Let them construct a sanctuary for Me, that I may dwell among them.”  Here one finds God’s heart — to dwell among His people!  A similar statement is found in Exodus 29:45-46.  Then in I Kings 6:13 … the Lord tells Solomon, David’s son, “I will dwell among the sons of Israel.”  Shall we forget the incredible statement found in II Corinthians 6:16, “we (a clear reference to believers) are the temple of the living God?” 

There the scripture continues:

I will dwell in them and walk among them; I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

   Undeniably, this Old Testament quotation is drawn directly from Exodus 25:8 (above), but properly applied then and now to Christ’s New Testament Church and each of us as His individual disciples.

It’s a somewhat overwhelming thought to consider that God Himself fully desires and intentionally purposes to dwell with/among and in (within) His people.  Consider, our God walked in the garden, having direct contact and communication with Adam and Eve before human sin severed the cherished connection.  Therefore, from the very beginning, all the way to the very end of this world as we know it, His objective has been clear … “He will dwell among them, and they shall be His people and God Himself will be among them.” (Revelation 21:3-4) 

In John 1:1 we read, “the Word was God.”  In John 1:14, “the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us.”   YES!   This is the incarnation (a person who embodies in the flesh a deity – the union of divinity and humanity) … An event which is not about humans becoming gods, or a god – absolutely impossible – but instead, God adapting to the form of humanity (with God all things are possible). This almost incomprehensible, mind-bending, worship-inciting truth is profoundly proclaimed when we sing:

Veiled in flesh the Godhead see; Hail, the incarnate Deity.  Pleased with us in flesh to dwell, Jesus our Emmanuel! (from Hark The Herald Angels Sing)

The English word translated here as “dwelt” is the Greek word “eskenosen” which means “to encamp” – “to pitch a tent” – “to tabernacle.”  A quality literal translation of this text might read, “the Word became flesh and did tabernacle or tabernacled among us.”  From the Old Testament, we think of the Tabernacle as the somewhat portable, divinely designed, yet humanly constructed, tent that provided the primary point of contact between God and mankind.  

In the New Testament, and in our faith, Jesus Christ – the incarnate Son of God – who became flesh and “tabernacled” (dwelt) among us, is the one and only point of contact capable of bridging the great chasm between God and humanity. 

In the Old Testament scriptures, the Table of the Bread of the Presence, the Lampstand, the Altar of Incense, and the Ark of the Covenant furnished the Tabernacle.  These pieces of furniture all portrayed Christ and were a “type” or “shadow” of things to come.  However, we now know Jesus as “the Bread of Life” – “the Light of the world” – “the great High Priest who intercedes for God’s redeemed Church” and He who abides (dwells) with and in His people.

God’s glory is also associated with the Old Testament Tabernacle. Exodus 40:34 states, “Then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle.”  The glory of God expresses His worthiness and the honor due Him.  Nonetheless, Jesus Christ offers the full expression of God’s glory for us to behold – “and we beheld His glory, the glory of the only begotten from the Father.” II Corinthians 4:6 expresses:

For God, who said, ‘Light shall shine out of darkness,’ is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the Light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. 

Then, Hebrews 1:3 explains Jesus Christ as:

Being the radiance (brightness) of His (God the Father’s) glory and the exact representation of His nature (express image of God the Father as a person), and (the one who) upholds all things by the word of His power.

Continuing in John 1:14, we also learn that this “glory as of the only begotten from the Father,” is, “full of grace and truth.”

Consider this description of God’s glory from Exodus 34:6:

The LORD, the LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth.

During His visit to earth, the incarnation, Christ demonstrates this grace and truth (from the Father) to the lost, the needy, and undeserving sinners.  He extends God’s grace to people through His actions and His words … He cares for the outcast, heals the broken, feeds the hungry, embraces the lonely, and lifts  the downtrodden from their pit.  Not only were these demonstrations and manifestations irrefutable evidence of His divinity, but fully revealed His divine character … the very nature of God Himself on public display for all to see!  

As He communicated God’s truth, lives were dynamically impacted and complete transformations occurred through the supremacy and potency of the very Word becoming flesh and tabernacling (pitching His tent and encamping) among/with us!  Our Lord, Jesus Christ continues to show us the fullness of God’s grace and truth today – chiefly through the incorruptible message of His Word and the transforming effects of God’s Holy Spirit. 

The Lord regenerates us into new individuals because

He’s living on the inside, roaring like a lion. (David Crowder – Like A Lion)  

Jesus Christ is the all-glorious, incarnate God, and this alone is reason enough to trust Him as our one and only Savior, worship Him as our one and only Lord, and follow/serve Him as our one and only Master/King. 

Are you living in this reality today?  Don’t just think about.  Don’t just talk about it. 

Let’s just do it!

– Pastor Frank

SIN UNTO DEATH

Posted on 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.

  1. According to verses 16 and 17, there is “sin not leading to death.”
  2. 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

MOTHER

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Genesis 3:20 declares, “The man called his wife’s name Eve, because she was the mother of all the living.”  Two very interesting concepts are uniquely intertwined in this verse.  First, we see the name Eve given to the first female of the human race.  Second, we learn that this name is given because she is “the mother of all the living.”  Previously, she had been called woman (“Ishah” in the Hebrew), as a wife; but now, even before conception, she is called the Life-giver or Life-spring (“chavvah” in the Hebrew) as a mother!  

As the human Life-giver, Eve, along with all mothers of all times, is uniquely called by God and blessed by Him in her inimitable position of honor.  The degraded position which mothers and/or women occupy in many modern cultures, such as in the middle/far east, principally in countries under intense Mohammedan influence, is absolutely unbiblical and totally erroneous!  The false views held by some in western cultures and in liberal socialism that our Bible, and/or Christianity somehow dishonors, debases, or attempts to enslave women is totally unfounded, unacceptable, and illogical when compared to the actual biblical text!

Throughout the O.T.,  there is plenty of evidence that moms move on a social plane equal to men and enjoy a unique significance. While the roles of male/female may be distinct, neither party is presented as of less importance. Among the Hebrews, mothers occupied a higher position than that enjoyed by women in other nations. While a mother’s duties may have been primarily domestic, she was held in high regard by her family, as well as the entire Hebrew society, with many moms/women occupying leadership positions. 

In Exodus 15:20-21, Miriam the prophetess (Aaron’s sister) leads in worship with expressions of praise offered through timbrels and dancing. Judges 4:4-6 reveals that Deborah, a prophetess, (wife of Lappidoth) judged Israel and the “sons of Israel came up to her for judgment.”  Later in that chapter, she commands the military leader, Barak, and provides leadership in a battle against Sisera. Biblically/spiritually speaking, her rule was extremely successful because “the land was undisturbed for forty years.” (See Judges 5:31)  Undoubtedly the love for family/children was deeply imbedded in the heart of every Hebrew mother/woman — consider the actions of Moses’ mom! 

Among the patriarchs, women, especially mothers, occupy a prominent place as well.  In Rebekah’s marriage, her mother seems to have had equal voice with her father and Laban, her brother.  (See Genesis 24:28, 50-55) In Genesis 28:7, Jacob “obeyed both his father and mother.”  Evidently, mom was his chief counselor.  I Kings 2:19 states that Solomon rose up to meet his mom, Bathsheba, bowing, and preparing a throne for her at his right hand.

All human life (matchlessly designed and incomparably created in the plans of our omnipotent Creator) would be conceived and developed within, as well as birthed through, God’s Eves (mothers) in fulfillment of His commission to mankind, “be fruitful and multiply!”  Not only would all human life spring forth from woman, but she would be chosen to bear God’s Son and birth the one and only Messiah/Redeemer to/for/in our world!  In her (mother Eve), and through her descendants, via Abraham, “all the families of the world would be blessed” (see Genesis 18:18, Acts 3:25, Galatians 3:8), and Satan’s head would be ultimately, permanently, and victoriously crushed. (See Genesis 3:15)     

Initially, Adam named his “woman” (see Genesis 2:23) in reference to her relationship with him and her gender; however, now she is distinguished by a new name (just as Abram became Abraham in Genesis 17:5 and Sarai became Sarah in Genesis 17:15-16), according to her circumstances, position in life, and God’s enduring, immutable covenant with humanity through her seed and  offspring.  She now stands as a memorial, a prophetic intimation (hint, inkling, indication), of her importance and the destiny of all her promised descendants.

While Adam’s wife appears to be the mother of death, having participated in condemnation upon all mankind, now, she is called “Eve” … the mother of all the living, preeminently of Christ, and all who live and have life through Him.  According to II Timothy 1:9-11:

[He] has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity, but now has been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.

John 1:4 reminds us, “In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men.“  

Thus, an entire history was comprised within the folds of a single word.  Eve would be mother, and in the early ages of our world continuing generation after generation, preserving among God’s people the promise (covenant) and blessed hope of our Saviour/Redeemer!  

When I think of my mom (God’s Eve for me), I’m assuredly grateful for life, nurturing, practical and spiritual training, godly counsel, and the wisdom I received under her wings.  Indeed, I certainly regret that by the age of 18, when my parents were taken home to be with the Lord, that I wasn’t fully cognizant of her blessing in my life and wasn’t personally afforded the opportunity to offer her appropriate praise and thanksgiving before she departed. 

Nonetheless, few days pass that I don’t thank my God upon every remembrance of her (my dad as well), gratefully rejoicing in the time and experiences I enjoyed with them throughout my childhood and adolescence.  Indisputably, I fully recognize that not everyone has a mother whose “children rise up and bless her.” (Proverbs 31:28)

Nevertheless, mom’s position was designed and appointed by God and you’re here right now according to God’s purpose through Eve.  So, whether she was lacking in much or extremely awesome, you can still praise God for His impregnable and indestructible blueprint established in/through “Eve … the mother of all the living.“ HE IS INDISPUTABLY WORTHY!                             

Think about it.   — Pastor Frank      

FIRST-FRUITS

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The Hebrew people, in acknowledgement of their God, YAHWEH (the one True God), offered the “first-fruits” offerings in gratitude and thankfulness in accordance with His abundant, plentiful provisions.  According to Exodus 23:19; Numbers 15:20; 18:12; Deuteronomy 26:2; and Nehemiah 10:35; 10:37, these offerings were to include everything that was produced from their land or that was sustained as a result of the land.  Items like grain and fruit were offered in their natural state, while others were prepared for consumption like musk, oil, flour, dough, etc.  

You shall bring the very first of the first fruits of your soil into the house of the Lord your God. — Exodus 34:26

The concept of “first-fruits” is also applied figuratively throughout the scriptures as well.  In Jeremiah 2:3, Israel is called “re’shith” the “first-fruit” of His harvest in the original Hebrew text.  Our New Testament employs the Greek word “aparche” translated “first-fruit” which is applied figuratively to several biblical/theological concepts.

Paul uses this word in Romans 16:5 concerning new believers, “Epaenetus, my beloved, who is the first convert (“aparcheé” — “first-fruit”) to Christ from Asia.”  The same is true concerning the household of Stephanas as the first believers from Achaia in I Corinthians 16:15. 

In James 1:18 we find a reference to the first generation of Christian believers:

In the exercise of His will He brought us forth by the word of truth, so that we would be a kind of first fruits (aparcheén) among His creatures.

A similar reference is made concerning Christ’s church in Thessalonica …

But we should always give thanks to God for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God has chosen you from the beginning (aparcheén) for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and faith in the truth.  — II Thessalonians 2:13

The 144,000 Jewish witnesses raised up to testify concerning Christ’s Gospel in the last days during the tribulation are deemed “first-fruits” in Revelation 14:4-5:

These are the ones who have not been defiled with women, for they have kept themselves chaste. These are the ones who follow the Lamb wherever He goes. These have been purchased from among men as first fruits (aparcheé) to God and to the Lamb. And no lie was found in their mouth; they are blameless.

Consider Romans 8:23:

And not only this, but also we ourselves, having the first fruits (aparcheén) of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body.

In this passage, early Christians are depicted as the “first-fruits” of those that have been blessed and endowed with the unique incomparable gift of God’s Holy Spirit.

These selected verses all represent figurative uses of “first-fruits” in the biblical text.  However, one of the most significant utilizations is found in I Corinthians 15:20-25 …

But now Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits (aparcheé) 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. But each in his own order: Christ the first fruits (aparcheé), after that those who are Christ’s at His coming, then comes the end, when He hands over the kingdom to the God and Father, when He has abolished all rule and all authority and power.

Christ is the “first-fruit” of the resurrection! This precise application documents several theological/spiritual truths/perspectives/concepts.

1.  There is resurrection of the dead, of which Christ is the first.

2. Just as humanity brought death into the world, Jesus Christ, the man/human being, brings life and resurrection.

3. The declaration “first-fruit” implies, in fact demands, the existence of a coming harvest, a gathering/bringing in of all that’s been produced.

4.  While we, as believers are not “first-fruits,” we are part of the guaranteed harvest that follows (which is to come)!

As we quickly approach our Good Friday Communion Service  and Resurrection (Easter) Sunday celebration, let us never forget the almost indescribable promise brought by “first-fruit”!    

— His & Yours, Pastor Frank

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           

CONSIDERATIONS FOR GIVING THANKS

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

As most believers already know, the first thanksgiving celebration was held in December of 1621.  The first winter had killed 44 of the original 102 colonists and at one point their daily food ration was down to five kernels of corn for each person.  However, history records that an unexpected trading vessel arrived, and the early American settlers were able to swap beaver pelts for corn which provided for their severe need.  The next summer’s abundant crop brought great hope, and Governor William Bradford decreed that December 13, 1621, be set aside as a day of feasting and prayer for the colonists to express their gratitude to the Lord, which continued for three consecutive days.


These settlers openly and willfully gave thanks to God for His provision of:

1. 20 acres of cleared land.

2. Peaceful, non-hostile Indians in the region

3. The freedom they enjoyed allowing them to live openly and worship as Bible believing Christians.

4. Squanto, (A member of the Patuxet tribe, Wampanoag Confederacy. who had previously crossed the Atlantic Ocean six times, traveling with colonists to London and back) who could interpret for the 80+ friendly local Indians (who contributed to the first thanksgiving feast by bringing wild turkeys and venison).

From that time forward, Thanksgiving has been celebrated as a day to give thanks to God for His gracious and sufficient provision. US President, Abraham Lincoln, officially set aside the last Thursday of November, in 1863, “as a day of thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father.”  Then In 1941, Congress declared that the fourth Thursday of November should be set aside as “Thanksgiving Day”  and observed as a legal holiday.

As believers, the biblical admonitions related to the ideas of giving thanks far proceed that of our American culture and celebrated holiday.  Almost cover to cover throughout the scriptural text, one finds continued references to the idea of thanksgiving or the giving of thanks. The Israelites sang a song of thanksgiving when they were delivered from Pharaoh’s army after their crossing of the Red Sea (See Exodus 15:1-18) declaring …

The Lord is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation; this is my God, and I will praise Him; my father’s God, and I will extol Him. The Lord  is a warrior; the Lord  is His name.

Later, the Mosaic Law set aside three times each year when the Israelites were to assemble and give thanks to the Lord for His provision and grace:

1. Unleavened Bread (also called the Feast of the Passover) — Exodus 12:15-20

2. Harvest or Pentecost —  Leviticus 23:15-21

3. Feast of Tabernacles or Ingathering —  Leviticus 23:33-36

The celebrations of both Harvest and Tabernacles took place specifically in relation to God’s provision as related to certain fruit trees and crops. In addition, the book of Psalms is packed full of songs declaring thanksgiving to the Lord God for His grace to the Israelites, as a people/nation, as well as for His outpouring of blessings upon individuals. (See Psalm 36:1, 106:1; 107:1; 118:1)

As Christ’s faithful followers, we must consider these following New Testament scriptures as well, where we are consistently prompted and coached to offer God  thanksgiving:

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. — I Thessalonians 5:16-18

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. — Philippians 4:6

Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men.– I Timothy 2:1

For God’s greatest gift, that of His Son, which meets our greatest need, the Apostle Paul says, “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift! — II Corinthians 9:15

Nonetheless, just like the early colonists, we have many choices in life.  There will always be those things that we can find adequate reason, or at least some personal justification to complain about (those early settlers had lost many loved ones).  However, there will also always be much to be grateful/thankful for!  As our society becomes increasingly secular, the actual “giving of thanks to God” during our annual Thanksgiving holiday is being severely neglected and generally overlooked, leaving behind only feasting with family and friends.

 I’m praying for all of us at WOF, that He might grant us much better understanding and a heart filled with genuine gratitude – not just as we approach the holiday season, but that we be found grateful/thankful every day for all of His precious gifts, both spiritual, relational, and material!  According to His Word, He is good and “every good gift comes from Him” (See James 1:17). In addition, for those that know Christ and are called according to His purpose(s), we know that He causes all things … “Everything to work together for good,” even events we would not necessarily consider good (See Romans 8:28-30).

In light of these truths, Lord please help us to become, and find us to be, grateful children who continually, openly, and unashamedly offer an abundance of thanksgiving to You … from Whom all blessings flow!

His & Yours, PF

PRAYING FOR A NATION

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I was recently eating lunch with Brother Colin (Powell) – (so delighted he has returned to Houston!) and he shared some thoughts from his study of Daniel 9 where we find the prophet diligently praying and even repenting before God for the Hebrew nation/people.  After retuning to my office at WOF, I started contemplating all the times in the Bible that individuals effectively interceded on behalf of a nation.  While I was certainly aware of all the accounts I found, I was taken-back, and literally somewhat stunned by the historical record.     

Numerous times, the intercession and faithful prayers of one person brought about the nation’s deliverance from judgment!  On two different, distinct occasions, the Lord God was ready to obliviate (literally forget or wipe from existence) the entire nation/people group.  In Exodus 32:7-14, the Lord actually offers to alternatively make Moses a great nation and utterly destroy this “obstinate people.”

Again, in Numbers 14:11-25, the Lord is ready to “dispossess” His people because they “spurn” Him in spite of all the “signs” He had “performed in their midst.”  The Lord once again makes a proposal to His faithful servant, Moses … “I will make you into a nation greater and mightier than they.”

In each of these cases, Moses prayed, and the Lord graciously and mercifully withheld the full judgment that the nation/people undisputedly and forthrightly deserved. 

In II Chronicles 20, the Lord heard Jehoshaphat’s prayer and gave Israel a decisive victory over the large and powerful invading armies of the Moabites and Ammonites. King Hezekiah cried out to God in II Kings 19:1-7 and Isaiah 37:1-7 when the Assyrian army surrounded Jerusalem, and the Lord sent His angel to slay 185,000 enemy soldiers (19:35 and 37:36).

A righteous individual is powerful and effective in prayer … “

“The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.” (James 5:16) 

Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the earth for three years and six months. Then he prayed again, and the sky poured rain and the earth produced its fruit.

James 5:17-18

God doesn’t have to wait for an entire nation to repent and/or cry out for His mercy; He works when and as He hears the prayers of believing, faithful intercessors. Apparently, according to Truth from God’s Word even … only one!

In Daniel 9:3-6 one encounters a great amount of spiritual transparency as the prophet openly and volitionally acknowledges the sins of the people/nation.

So I gave my attention to the Lord God to seek Him by prayer and supplications, with fasting, sackcloth and ashes.  I prayed to the Lord my God and confessed and said, “Alas, O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps His covenant and lovingkindness for those who love Him and keep His commandments, we have sinned, committed iniquity, acted wickedly and rebelled, even turning aside from Your commandments and ordinances. Moreover, we have not listened to Your servants the prophets, who spoke in Your name to our kings, our princes, our fathers and all the people of the land.

Then in verses 13-14 …

all this calamity has come on us; yet we have not sought the favor of the Lord our God by turning from our iniquity and giving attention to Your truth.  “Therefore, the Lord has kept the calamity in store and brought it on us; for the Lord our God is righteous with respect to all His deeds which He has done, but we have not obeyed His voice.

If this sounds familiar, portraying our nation currently, and the people of our land, what shall believers do? Just simply think about it, discuss it, or write about it?              

Not!  –PF

THE BATTLE BELONGS TO THE LORD

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War, killing, and the shedding of blood (guilty and/or innocent) appear throughout humanity’s history. From the entrance of sin into the human race (Genesis 3), mankind has successfully devised ways to inflict pain and/or eliminate one another. The first messianic prophecy (Genesis 3:15) even announces hostility between the offspring (seed) of Eve (all mankind and ultimately the second Adam, Jesus Christ) and the seed of the serpent (Satan/Devil/demons/evil spirits/etc.). This great war of spiritual dimension is concluded when Jesus Christ overthrows Satan’s dominance on earth (Revelation 6-19), removing the regime, control, and power of all God’s enemies! Christ triumphantly and gloriously returns “King of kings & Lord of lords,” establishing His rule of truth, justice, and righteousness throughout the entire earth. During His reign (The Millennium, 1000 years) peace will be enjoyed, yet one final combat still must occur. Then, in irrevocable defeat, our Lord’s enemy, Satan, along with all his followers (those that reject Jesus Christ) face second death, and are cast into the “Lake Of Fire” (Revelation 20:1-3, 7-10).

In the light of this spiritual/biblical struggle of good -v- evil, Christ -v- Antichrist, God -v- Satan, it is not at all surprising that wars would be prominent in the Scripture, as well as throughout all mankind’s history. Humans without Christ simply wage war. Ecclesiastes 3:8 reminds us, “There is a time for every purpose under heaven,” which includes, “a time for war.” Some wars are just and holy, others political, and some totally absurd and sinful — based in greed, pride, dominance, etc. War too often illustrates the malignity of the wicked (Psalm 55:21). However, Jehovah (Lord God) is declared to be “a warrior” (literally — a man of war, Exodus 15:3-19) as One who knows how to wage war successfully and possesses the ordnance necessary to destroy His enemies! Thus the concept of a “Holy War” (Exodus 17:16; Numbers 31:3) emerges, where every warrior/soldier considers himself a servant of God, consecrated to the Lord (Isaiah 13:3) and willing to totally abstained from certain activities in order to sanctify (set apart/purify) themselves (Judges 20:26; II Samuel 11:11) for His Holy purpose and service. I’m not sure mankind can actually declare a “Holy War,” however we can declare “just war” if asked to stand against the lies and evil of Satan.

The devaluation of human life, slavery, forms of oppression and persecution certainly fall into this category. Figuratively, in a spiritual sense, and literally, each person is at war with sin and ultimately the consequences of sin – physical and spiritual death (Romans 7:23-24). However, this conflict is not ours to fight alone. God recognizes that no matter how hard we try, or how good we are, everyone eventually succumbs to sin and surrenders the war in humiliating defeat and death.

However, a mighty Warrior was dispatched to conquer sin and death, literally handing us (believers) a great victory (I Corinthians 15:56-57), even in the midst of our own capitulation (Romans 6:23). As Jesus Christ hung on the cross, a holy war raged in His flesh and spirit. He ultimately surrendered, becoming sin (II Corinthians 5:21) and a casualty of this war as all other humans. However, Sunday was on its way, indeed the war was not over, but a short pause occurred in the conflict while preparation was made for one final assault. Then,

“Up from the grave He arose (Acts 10:40-41), with a mighty triumph o’er His foes. He arose a victor from the dark domain (of sin and death) and He lives for every with His saints to reign! He arose, He arose, Halleluiah Christ arose!”

Just Think About It! — Pastor Frank