Tag: gospel

THE KING

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

Matthew’s gospel is geared primarily to present Jesus Christ as the King and God’s Son as the Messiah — with the rightful claim (and heir) to King David’s throne.

It all begins in chapter 1 by showing our Lord as the One who should rightfully reign because of the legal Messianic bloodline (See Romans 1:3, John 7:42) — indeed the descendent of David. Then, In chapter 2, the authenticity of His reign was affirmed by the Magi from the east, who, in their own understanding of Old Testament prophecy and through the direction of God’s Spirit, were led to Jerusalem, then Bethlehem in search of the One who had been born, “King of the Jews.” (See Matthew 2:2) This confirmation of the Christ Child as King is a remarkable event – an outstanding occurrence! 

In chapter 3 we have the powerful unrelenting testimony of John the Baptist, the ordained / Holy Spirit-anointed forerunner of the King, declaring, “Repent for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (See Matthew 3:2)

Matthew chapter 4 presents Messiah, the King, whose power and authority is attested to by His one-on-one conflict with Satan.  The very fact that Jesus Christ overpowered the onslaughts of the enemy, overcoming the kingdom of darkness, was a clear testimony to the fact that He was God’s chosen and anointed King.  For only God’s King could fully resist and incapacitate the ultimate enemy of the Word and the Truth – our King’s Gospel message! 

Matthew 4:10-11

Then Jesus said to him, “Go, Satan! For it is written, ‘YOU SHALL WORSHIP THE LORD YOUR GOD, AND SERVE HIM ONLY.’” Then the devil left Him; and behold, angels came and began to minister to Him.

Unquestionably Jesus is proven by His power and authority … The King!

Consider chapters 5, 6, and 7 where He teaches and speaks with authority, much different than others (See Matthew 7:28-29, Luke 4:22, Mark 1:22), continuously revealing principles of His kingdom. Just look at the incredible, unsurpassed “Sermon on the Mount!” (See Matthew 5:1-7:27)

Then, in chapters 8 – 10, one finds further credentials of our King with three chapters of miracles which prophetically prove His Kingship as well as His Lordship … even over various laws of nature itself. (See Matthew 8:5-13) Running parallel with these credentials, seemingly in a very strange element, is also a mounting and ascending rejection of Him, His Gospel, and Kingdom message.  The greater the evidence reveals that He is truly the King, the greater the rejection of His message and His kingdom – thus demonstrating the profound blindness of the Hebrew people.

Finally, one turns to chapter 11 where Jesus denounces the sinful nation of Israel for rejecting Him – declaring a severe judgment! (See Matthew 11:20)

Nonetheless, our gracious Lord and King closes chapter 11 with an invitation …

Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.

(See Matthew 11:28-29)

Incredibly, out of His warning of judgments comes once again the message of grace, an invitation to accept Him. However, in chapter 12 the rejection of King Jesus, His Gospel, His Truth, and His Kingdom reaches its climax, and His pronouncement of judgment also reaches its climax. The final rejection is fully clarified and summed up when they unashamedly accuse Jesus of being Demonic / Satanic (See Matthew 12:23-24). At that point Christ pronounces a detrimental final judgment on the Jewish leaders and says, “You’re beyond the point of being forgiven.” (See Matthew 12:30-32)

Dr. Toussaint, in his commentary on Matthew says, “Not seeing the Messiahship of Jesus in His words and works, they have separated the fruit from the tree.”  It is not necessarily that they denied the King’s miracles, or that they were not fascinated by Christ’s words, as He taught with authority. They were even fully aware of His miraculous power … however, they could never trace the fruit, the works of Jesus, to their logical conclusion. 

They separated them (fruit / works) from the reality of who He was … THE KING who came offering HIS KINGDOM!

Can one have the Kingdom without it’s King?

Undoubtedly, they desired that; however, it was                                                                      not possible without accepting the Kingdom’s King!

Please, never ignore or forget this simple, but profound truth!

His & Yours, PF

GOSPEL

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

The Gospel is under serious attack in today’s secularized church.  It’s impossible to properly stress the imperative need of getting the Gospel right … understanding both the person, the message, and the completed / finished work of Jesus Christ. In addition, we must permanently lock-on-to the personal dimension of how we, as individual believers, benefit from the Gospel through the means of GRACE (unmerited/undeserved/unearned favor) combined with genuine FAITH.

Preachers, Pastors, Evangelists, Bible Teachers, etc. say they “preach the gospel” — but if one listens carefully, with a biblical mindset (world view), we may find very little “Gospel” in what’s being presented. The term “Gospel” has become a nickname for preaching almost anything, rather than something with definitive scriptural-based content and objective. The word for “GOSPEL” comes from the Greek word euangelion.  Notice it has the prefix “eu” which is translated into English meaning something “good” or “pleasant”. The Greek word angelos or angelion is translated into English as “message”. Combined, euangelion, basically and simply means a “good message” or “good news”. Matthew 4:23 declares:

Jesus was going throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every kind of disease and every kind of sickness among the people.  

In ancient times, when armies marched out into battle, the people waited anxiously for a report from the battlefield concerning the outcome of the conflict. Once the results were known, a highly skilled / trained marathon runner would dash back and give a report. This is the concept found in Isaiah 52:7 when God’s prophet penned:

How lovely on the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who announces peace and brings good news of happiness!

The watchman in the tower would gaze out as far as he could see, hoping to catch a glimpse of the runner.  Eventually he would see the dust flying as the runner approached the city, and an excellent watchman could even tell by the way the runner’s legs were churning whether it was going to be good news or not.  If the runner was struggling, it indicated a grim, forbidding report, but if his legs were flying, with dust kicking up, that meant good news … which is the fundamental concept of the Gospel!

While the term “Gospel” may be used in literature referring to the first 4 books of the New Testament, as previously stated, Gospel means good news. Christ’s forerunner, John the Baptist, boldly proclaimed as good news, “the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand!” Putting it simply, nonetheless, the Gospel (good news message) is Jesus Christ!

The announcement of MESSIAH, who He is, and what He accomplished, is the pinnacle, as well as the culmination of GOOD NEWS!  If we share our salvation testimony with others saying, “I became a Christian last year, or I gave my heart to Jesus,” we are certainly and unashamedly bearing witness about Christ, but we are not sharing the Gospel. The gospel is not about us!  The gospel is only about Jesus Christ – all that He accomplished … His sinless life of perfect obedience, His atoning and sacrificial death on the cross, His victorious resurrection from the dead (conquering forever sin and death), His ascension into heaven, and the powerful outpouring of God’s Holy Spirit upon Christ’s Church on that glorious day of PENTECOST! 

These crucial elements are the objective aspects of the Gospel as presented and reiterated time and time again throughout the New Testament scriptures.  So as believers, will we be determined to stand with the Apostle Paul and the pure good news of Christ’s message, or yield to the influence of another or different gospel? (See Galatians 1:6-8)      

It’s certainly time to consider and verify your position.

His & Yours, Pastor Frank

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.

For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written,   

“BUT THE RIGHTEOUS man SHALL LIVE BY FAITH.”

Romans 1:16-17

RESURRECTION

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

— Pastor Frank 

TRUTH & LIBERTY

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

Every year, as July 4th approaches, my heart and my mind turn to the ideals and concepts of social/political freedom as well as those at the root of a believers’ spiritual liberty.  While these freedoms are not the same, they are birthed from the same underpinnings, and in fact, social and/or political freedom cannot thrive, or ultimately even survive, without God’s people faithfully living in and experiencing individual spiritual liberty!  While some would disagree with that statement, the reality is undeniable … True liberty rests upon the laurels of God’s absolute truth and Christ’s gospel of grace and redemption.

In John 8, one finds Jews that don’t even recognize the bondage they are experiencing, both politically and spiritually.  A lack of, shortage of, or denial of truth has resulted in their blindness in both realms.  In John 8:31-32, Jesus states:

If you continue in My word, (then) you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free. 

Their response to His words in John 8:33 are incredibly revealing:

We are Abraham’s descendants and have never yet been enslaved to anyone; how is it that You say, ‘You will become free’?

  At that exact moment, their nation was controlled by the Romans! They hadn’t experienced any social/political liberty in hundreds of years and each of them was individually under the spiritual bondage of religion as well to the law of sin and death. Inevitably, the absence of God’s absolute truth breeds contempt for truth itself.  Perhaps we all need to be reminded of Christ’s prayer for His followers/disciples/us in John 17:17:

Sanctify them (set them apart from the things of this fleshly/sinful world for a sacred/spiritual use … unto the things that are holy/of God) by the Truth; Your Word is Truth.

Genuine liberty works in an unusual manner.  It liberates one from someone or some condition of bondage and offers (liberates one to/unto) new opportunity.  You may recall how Moses initially served the Lord by demanding of Pharaoh liberty for God’s people from the bondage of Egyptian slavery.  Eventually, they were set free and the Lord offered tremendous liberty, allowing them the opportunity and privilege of following and serving the one true God. Their initial freedom brought a separation from Egypt and all the things of that land and the life they previously lived. 

In addition, their liberty uniquely set them apart (sanctified) to be/become God’s people.  In John 8, Jesus offered those present liberty from their condition of bondage in much the same manner. Nonetheless, they were so blinded by years of truth drought, that they were unable to even recognize their own spiritual, as well as social/political bondage. 

As truth decreases, bondage increases.  Ultimately it takes hold of an individual or even a whole society and enslaves him/her/it.  At that point, a blindness starts to occur and the truth becomes harder and harder to identify.  Simply put, most people would hold that 1+1=2.  Is that the truth?  In  George Orwell’s book/film,  “1984,” 2+2 no longer equals 4 … instead, according to the “Party” … 5.  Who has/holds the power or right to control truth?  In “1984” the “Party” determines truth and tells every citizen what they believe.  Therefore, without any absolute, 2+2=5.  That’s bondage, but this slavery is not necessarily recognized for what it is!  As long as the “Party” continues perpetuating the lies, the people are kept in slavery. 

However, according to Jesus Christ, if one continues in His Word, one will know TRUTH and that TRUTH will bring freedom/liberty.  The society in “1984” was forever bound-up in darkness until 2+2=4.  At that point other freedoms follow — once people know the truth, they are at liberty to leave bondage and free to pursue something else like God’s eternal, immutable truth that will ultimately offer spiritual, as well as social/political liberty.  However, if the there is no sincere and diligent quest for/of truth, another form of bondage will encroach.  

Galatians 5:1 — It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.

I say all this because difficult times are ahead according to the truth …

II Timothy 4:3-4 — For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires,  and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths.

I Timothy 4:1-2 — But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons, by means of the hypocrisy of liars seared in their own conscience as with a branding iron.

Now concerning truth, its absence or presence … concerning spiritual liberty, it’s absence or presence, and without too big of a stretch Christ words in Matthew 6:22-23 might be applied to social/political freedom, its absence or presence as well:

The eye is the lamp of the body; so then if your eye is clear, your whole body will be full of light.  But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light that is in you is darkness, how great is the darkness?

Therefore, this is my prayer, please Lord, nothing but truth, light, grace, peace, hope, liberty, and freedom for all who know you, Christ Jesus, as their source of life and godliness!   — Pastor Frank                         

MISSION TRIP 2014 PART II

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

Mission Trip 2014 is upon us!  Every year, our relatively small congregation accepts the challenge of ministering to literally hundreds of children in the South Texas Valley.  We see numerous children and youth make life-changing decisions for Christ, as well as a refreshing work of the Lord in each participant.  

For many years, we have stayed on a consistent theme during  our Mission Trip VBS ministry, emphasizing what we refer to as “A-B-C.”

One may ask, What’s it all about? A-B-C stands for “ADMIT – BELIEVE – CONFESS”.  Our three-day ministry program is uniquely designed for K-5th grade students, whereby each day’s lesson, craft, and memory verse and even the Extreme Scraise Team skits all focus on one of the A-B-C letters.

The idea of the A, ADMIT, brings a focus on biblical truth from Romans 3:23, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” and encourages the children to recognize sin and then admit that they too are indeed sinners in need of forgiveness.  This emphasis leads perfectly into verses like Romans 5:8, “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”  This step, admitting one’s spiritual condition, is very liberating and really unlocks the closed heart leading to an understanding of God’s grace and genuine love.    

The B, BELIEVE, introduces the concept of believing (with knowledge/understanding) in Jesus Christ, God’s one and only (unique) Son as presented in God’s Word.  This ties perfectly with scriptural passages like John 3:16 and the truth of New Testament Christianity that one must believe that Jesus Christ, God’s Son, gave up/laid down His life allowing whoever   believes in Him to have their sins forgiven and be granted everlasting/eternal life.  In John 12:46 Jesus promised, “I have come as Light into the world, so that everyone who believes in me will not remain in darkness.”  We sincerely hope and pray that all these children will not continue to live in the spiritual darkness of confusing religion and the mystical practice that is  prevalent in much of their culture.    

C, CONFESS, clearly establishes the teachings of Romans 10:9-13, “That if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation.  For the Scripture says, “WHOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED.”  For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, abounding in riches for all who call on Him;  for “WHOEVER WILL CALL ON THE NAME OF THE LORD WILL BE SAVED.”

While some are critical of our plan’s simplicity, it is clearly effective and much easier to communicate than other A-B-C plans for evangelism.  The A-B-C plan we employ allows our youth to communicate the gospel with great confidence and also provides a long-lasting witness for every child that is exposed to 3 days of A-B-C.  From songs to crafts, from memory verses to teaching, Admit, Believe, and Confess announces the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ and rings aloud the truth of God’s grace and salvation every time it is heard or repeated.

Ultimately each of us must also consider A-B-C and determine if we’ve walked down the gospel path of Admit, Believe and Confess.  If not, why not?  Isn’t it time to admit that you’re a sinner?  Isn’t it time to fully believe in/on Jesus Christ, God’s one and only (unique) Son who surrendered His life to give life?  Brothers and sisters, just do it … believe in your heart and openly confess with your mouth, Jesus as Lord … you will not be disappointed!                                      

— His & Yours, 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

BELIEVE

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In Acts 16 one finds Paul and Silas ministering the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the community of Thyatira.  However, they have been tossed into jail by local magistrates for disrupting some of the town’s commerce when they cast a demon out of a female fortune-teller who was hindering them.  According to the biblical text (Acts 16:24) they were placed in the inner prison and their feet were secured in stocks. 

Then around midnight (Acts 16:25), while they were praying and singing praises, a great earthquake causes the foundation of the prison to shake (Acts 16:26) and amazingly all doors are opened and everyone’s shackles are unfastened.  Needless to say, at that point it’s only logical that all the prisoners would have escaped, but not in this case, instead they all stay, which ultimately saves the life of the jailer (Acts 16:27).   Acts 16:28-30 reveals what happened next:

But Paul cried out with a loud voice, saying, ‘Do not harm yourself, for we are all here!’ And he called for lights and rushed in, and trembling with fear he fell down before Paul and Silas, and after he brought them out, he said, ‘Sirs, what must I do to be saved?

Isn’t it incredible how the Lord literally moves heaven and earth to bring one soul … one family, into His Kingdom!  Notice their clear answer to the jailer’s question in Acts 16:31:

Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.

The directive is, “Believe in the Lord Jesus” … it’s simple and to the point, only requiring a genuine belief/faith in one thing/person, Jesus Christ!  There are no, ZERO, conditions attached!    

The Greek word for “believe” used in this passage, “pisteuo” (pronounced – pist-yoo’-o), means to fully commit, put in trust with, to have faith in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing. By implication, in this case, it means to fully (whole-heartedly) entrust one’s spiritual well-being to Christ!

But the righteousness based on faith speaks as follows: “DO NOT SAY IN YOUR HEART, ‘WHO WILL ASCEND INTO HEAVEN?’ (that is, to bring Christ down), or ‘WHO WILL DESCEND INTO THE ABYSS?’ (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead).”  But what does it say? “THE WORD IS NEAR YOU, IN YOUR MOUTH AND IN YOUR HEART” — that is, the word of faith which we are preaching, that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation.  

For the Scripture says, “WHOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, abounding in riches for all who call on Him; for “WHOEVER WILL CALL ON THE NAME OF THE LORD WILL BE SAVED.” — Romans 10:6-13

Ever since SALVATION IN CHRIST ALONE came into view, humans have attempted to add something of individual merit to the process without understanding that this approach takes away from the completed work of Jesus Christ.  This methodology actually denies the teaching of Christ Himself, the apostles, Christ’s early church, and the revelation of Scripture!  In Acts 15:11, after a hearty debate concerning salvation and the part that the “Law of Moses” should play in the conversion of Jews and non-Jews/Gentiles, our early church leaders boldly declared:

We believe that we are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, in the same way as they also are.

However, here is the persisting problem — salvation doesn’t come by simply stating, “I believe Jesus.”  James reminds us that one does well to believe, but according to 2:19 … “the demons also believe, and shudder.”  Genuine salvation is placing your full faith/trust in Jesus Christ.  When that occurs, a process of spiritual transformation begins which makes one’s belief and/or faith in Jesus Christ absolutely and undeniably evident.   According to James 2:18-20 the works of one’s living faith becomes obviously apparent (dynamically observable)!  I John 5:1-10 speaks of such undeniable proof … true believers love God, love other believers, follow the Lord’s commandments, overcome the world (its philosophies, lies and fleshly passions), and possess an inner testimony of our Lord’s work that ultimately shines forth from within the heart and soul of Christ’s faithful.

As one looks further into this matter of believing, genuine salvation, and understanding who is a true believer, Hebrews 12:4-11 cannot be ignored. Our Lord is faithful to discipline those He loves for their own benefit (eventual blessing), as well as in accordance with His definitive and decisive plan/purpose.  Unquestionably, if one isn’t receiving discipline, then no relationship exists according to Hebrews 12:7:

For what son (child/heir) is there whom his father does not discipline?

Certainly other spiritual qualities confirm one’s position in Christ such as the indwelling presence and abiding power of God’s Holy Spirit in causing believers to bear fruit (John 15:1-11), equipping them with spiritual gifts for service in His Body (Romans 12:3-8), providing supernatural manifestations (I Corinthians 12:7-11), and the substantiating Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-25).

Please hear the essential, indispensable questions: Are these qualities/traits yours and are they ever increasing as you live a life of faith (trusting and relying/believing in/on Jesus Christ)? (II Peter 3:4-11)  As the Lord’s people, are we laying aside every encumbrance, the sin that so easily entangles us and running with endurance the race He has set before us with our eyes fixed upon Jesus? (Hebrews 12:1-2)  If not, isn’t it time to truly, (full-heartedly) believe?  Call upon the name of the Lord, Jesus Christ and experience His abundant mercy and grace, then the transformation will begin and you’ll never wonder again if you’re truly saved because the evidence will be apparent, noticeable by you and others as well! 

Just do it! 

His & Yours,

Pastor Frank 

For we also once were foolish ourselves, disobedient, deceived, enslaved to various lusts and pleasures, spending our life in malice and envy, hateful, hating one another. But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by His grace we would be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. 

— Titus 3:3-7

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  

MOHAMMED V JESUS

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

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

I AM

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

John’s gospel contains seven (God’s perfect number) distinct miracles displayed during Christ’s ministry here on earth, as well as seven unique “I am” declarations of Jesus our Lord. Primarily, the focus of these statements, in context, was to His Hebrew audience that could easily connect through their heritage to each phrase He used, including “I Am” (Exodus 3:14, John 8:58) However, there is a powerful underlying message for all those that will ultimately come to believe in Christ and accept His gospel (good news) message.

“I AM” Statement 1:

In John 6:35, Jesus declared:

I am the bread of life; he who comes to Me will not hunger.

“I Am” statement 1 tells us that Jesus is the spiritual sustenance, or essential bread, for every believer’s spiritual hunger.

“I AM” Statement 2:

In John 8:12, Jesus boldly states:

I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.

“I Am” statement 2 literally means that those who follow and unite with Jesus through faith will not be ignorant on spiritual matters, but will have the endowment, power, and blessing of spiritual understanding.

“I AM” Statement 3:

It refers to back to Psalm 23:2 where the faithful are given free/unlimited access to His Kingdom. In John 10:9 Jesus says:

I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture.

True salvation is found only in and through Jesus Christ (the only door/gate) whereby one engages the promise of Psalm 23:6, “Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

“I AM” Statement 4:

I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.

These are the words of our Lord recorded in John 10:11. “I Am” statement 4 demonstrates the value God places on each individual. Certainly sheep are incapable of caring for themselves; therefore, their owners hire shepherds who are dutifully charged with the safety and well-being of all the sheep. However, many/most hired shepherds will only take that responsibility to the point where it doesn’t threaten their own personal safety/well-being.  Nonetheless, there are a few … “good shepherds” … who are willing to risk their own lives and protect all the sheep!  Our Shepherd knowingly and willingly laid down His life to save all the sheep of His pasture.

“I AM” Statement 5:

It teaches that whether one dies physically before the snatching away of Christ’s church, or are taken up alive at His appearing, He has guaranteed all believers that their eternal destiny is with Him!

I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. John 11:25-26.

“I AM” Statement 6:

Christ explains in “I Am” statement 6, that He is the only – exclusive — way/path to God the Father, as well as being the ultimate, inexhaustible source of truth and life.  John 14:6 proclaims:

I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.

“I AM” Statement 7:

This last, Christ’s final, “I Am” statement from the Gospel of John 15:5:

I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.

This reflects the ideal balance for every believer’s life on Earth … bearing much fruit through a life of gratitude that’s reliant upon one’s relationship and connection with Him.

What a life we have now and forever because of the Great I AM!  Take a moment right now to contemplate these things, and offer sincere praise to our Lord.  — PF