Tag: hebrews

INSPIRATION

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

II Peter 1:19-21 declares … “So we (as followers of Jesus Christ / believers) have the prophetic Word made more sure, to which you do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts. But know this first of all (as an order of importance), that no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of one’s own interpretation, for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved (carried, impelled, driven) by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.”

PLEASE NOTE THIS SIGNIFICANT TRUTH:

  1. “The Word is made more sure!” Why? “for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved (carried, impelled, driven) by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.”
  2. “You do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place!” Why? “for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved (carried, impelled, driven) by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.”
  3. “But know this first of all (as an order of importance), that no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of one’s own interpretation!” Why? “for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved (carried, impelled, driven) by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.”

What a blessing! The Lord employed His Holy Spirit to inspire some of His faithful servants to write down what God was teaching and revealing in their day, so His WORD could / would be passed on to successive generations, like us, all the way forward into 2026!

One may ask, “How did all this occur?”

Hebrews 1:1-2 provides the perfect answer to your inquiry … even for us in this generation and every generation to come.

“God, after He spoke long ago to the fathers in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, in these last days has spoken to us in His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the world.”

Who spoke? How did He speak? How is He speaking, even today?

Our Lord God is not somehow limited to revealing Himself in any one particular manner. Sometimes He spoke directly (see Genesis 12:7; 16:7; Exodus 3:2) to individuals. At other times He spoke in a different form, revealing His truths to His prophets through visions and dreams (see Isaiah 1:1; Ezekiel 1:1; Daniel 2:1, 19; Acts 10:10: Revelation 1:10). He once even decided to use a talking donkey (Numbers 22:28)! The Lord’s will was also revealed to His first disciples through the casting of lots (see Acts 1:23-26), much as He did through the Urim and Thummim to Israel (see Numbers 27:21).

Nonetheless, most importantly, God spoke through His Son, Jesus Christ, who effectively revealed the nature of the one true God to humanity.  (see John 1:14)

Hebrews 1:3 clearly and boldly states this Truth, “And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power.”

Christ is uniquely qualified to speak for God because, as the apostle John describes Him in John 1:1-2, 14, 17, He is certainly God! Jesus as the “Word” (Greek – Logos, from John 1:14) is the computation of divine expression for everyone!  He is the Spokesman of God, communicating to humanity, and even more specifically and directly to His people (those who believe and are called by His name). This allows us know the will of God, and unfolds the path to live in a genuine relationship with Him!

From God’s perspective, every word He speaks, or inspires one to understand, is absolutely 100% true! Nothing else is possible or probable if it’s from the Lord. This concept is reinforced by Psalm 119:160: “The sum of Your Word is truth, and every one of Your righteous ordinances is everlasting” and then from the prayer of Christ Jesus Himself in John 17:17: “Sanctify them in the truth; Your Word is truth.” See, the Lord God considers the Word His promise and guarantee that we receive only the very best / perfect instruction and information from Him and about Him!  In fact, He would not be God at all if He spoke anything other than the Truth which is totally His Truth (Numbers 23:19; Titus 1:2; Hebrews 6:18).

Consequently, that brings us to our word for this month, “INSPIRATION” … as the Apostle Paul wrote to his “son” in the faith, Pastor Timothy.  

“All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.”

2 Timothy 3:16

The phrase, “inspired by God” literally, in the New Testament Greek text, means “God-breathed.” Scripture, then, is the direct product of God’s mind, nature and very being!  The words “all Scripture” can also be rendered to mean “every text,” “the whole scripture,” or “all the writings,” meaning that the Lord actually revealed spiritually exactly what He wanted for His followers to know and understand!  It was INSPIRIED by Him and inscribed by His servants under the control of The ALMIGHTY! In reality, nothing can compare and nothing should be considered as valuable as God’s provision for those He loves, calls, redeems and are Holy Spirit filled! 

Therefore, my always prayer… for all of us, is, “May the Word of God richly dwell within you!” – From Colossians 3:16. Lord, let us understand, embrace, and faithfully use this incomparable gift / blessing!

How then, what then, shall we do?

His & Yours,

-PF  

HOPE, PERSERVERANCE, AND PRAYER

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

In Romans 12:12 the Apostle Paul reminds us of 3 concepts… “Rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, and devoted to prayer”… that are essential in the life of maturing / growing believers who are vibrantly walking by faith and not by sight! (see 2 Corinthians 5:7)

These are not isolated personal virtues, but interconnected spiritual disciplines that form the very backbone of authentic bible-based faith! In an age marked by uncertainty, anxiety, and unprecedented challenges, the church desperately needs believers who embody this triad of grace.

“Hope” – Hope serves as a firm foundation and solid anchor for our lives when circumstances seem threatening or overwhelming!

“Persevering in tribulation” – Perseverance refines our nature / character when various trials appear in life seeking to challenge one’s faith, bringing about compromise, fear, or destructive doubt!

“Devoted to prayer” – Prayer connects us to the inexhaustible eternal resources of our Lord every time in our human frailty and weakness our own strength falters!

Together, these three practical elements of genuine faith-living create a resilient believer who is capable of withstanding the stormy conditions of life in a pagan (godless), pleasure seeking world /culture.

Christian hope is not wishful thinking or blind optimism; it is confident expectation rooted in the unchanging character/ nature of God and His faithful promises. This hope transforms how one views every present circumstance, and should dominate believers’ thinking as they look to the future and their ultimate destiny.  Paul the Apostle prayed, “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (see Romans 15:13). Notice that hope is not self-generated but flows from the very “God of Hope” through the power and presence of God’s Holy Spirit! This genuine hope rests solely upon God’s demonstration of love towards humanity (see John 3:16-17, Romans 5:8) … a love so certain that the author of Hebrews describes this hope as “an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast” (see Hebrews 6:19), which provides unprecedented, unimaginable stability throughout all of life’s issues!        

The great preacher, Charles Spurgeon, whom I often quote, understood this transformative power:

“Hope itself is like a star—not to be seen in the sunshine of prosperity, and only to be discovered in the night of adversity.”

Pastor John Piper has some profound insight:

“Hope is not a granted wish or a favor performed; no, it is far greater than that. It is a zany, unpredictable dependence on a God who loves to surprise us out of our socks.”

Then, Christian Apologist Tim Keller reminds us,

“The Christian Gospel is that I am so flawed that Jesus had to die for me, yet I am so loved and valued that Jesus was glad to die for me. This leads to deep humility and deep confidence at the same time.”

This hope fundamentally transforms our response to difficulties. When we rejoice in hope, we are not denying any present pain, but affirming future glory — enabling us to see beyond immediate circumstances to God’s ultimate purposes.

Persevering in Tribulation is somewhat like a refiner’s fire, not an interruption to one’s faith-walk, but an integral part of the ongoing spiritual formation within each committed believer. God uses trials to produce character, deepen faith, and conform us to the image of Christ. Romans 5:3-4 reminds us to “Exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope!” Tribulation initiates a divine process that ultimately produces hope. The writing of James clearly echoes this truth: “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing” (see James 1:2-4).                                                                   

Puritan pastor Thomas Watson observed, “Affliction is the diamond dust that heaven polishes its jewels with.”Elisabeth Elliot, who fully knew the meaning of profound suffering, wrote, “The fact that I am a woman does not make me a different kind of Christian, but the fact that I am a Christian makes me a different kind of woman. For I have accepted God’s idea of me, and my whole life is an offering back to Him of all that I am and all that He wants me to be.”

Believers endure / persevere through tribulation and times of suffering because we all know it is producing eternal glory. One faces trials with joy, understanding that’s it’s our Lord’s refining purposes, which improves everything about life as a committed, faithful believer! In essence, we endure with / in / through / faith because whatever difficulty one faces, the Lord uses it to deepens our confidence in Him and mold us for whatever future challenges are ahead.

Being or becoming devoted to prayer provides a continued lifeline of support for one’s personal relationship of faith in Christ Jesus.  Author, E.M. Bounds, a great prayer warrior, declared, “Prayer is not learned in a classroom but in the closet.” Andrew Murray, another Christian leader and faithful man of prayer, wrote, “The man who mobilizes the Christian church to pray will make the greatest contribution to world evangelization in history.”

Prayer is not merely a religious duty; it is vital communion with the Lord that sustains every aspect of one’s Christian experience. Through prayer, we access divine resources and align ourselves with God’s will, as well as with His purposes, as we undergo His transforming presence / process! Therefore, we “pray without ceasing!” (see 1 Thessalonians 5:17) Continuous communication with the Lord is a pathway to supernatural peace.

Through prayer, Christ’s followers cultivate hope though communion with the Lord, and find incredible strength to persevere through tribulation! When one is devoted to prayer that’s not merely crisis-driven, but consistent and fervent … the believer is positioned to receive everything the Lord desires to bestow upon them. Prayer keeps hearts tender, minds focused, and spirits sensitive to the leadings of God’s Holy Spirit … a supernatural link, through which divine power flows right into human weakness.

Rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, and devoted to prayer are not three separate Christian ideals, but the actual dimensions of an integrated, healthy, spiritual life of genuine faith! When these three concepts work in concert, they produce believers who cannot be shaken by circumstances, discouraged by opposition, or defeated by various trials or difficult situations! They create Christians who glorify God in every season — not because life is easy, but because our God is always faithful.

“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit”

Romans 15:13

May hope an anchor for your soul, may perseverance refine your character, and may prayer connect you to the very heart of our Lord, Saviour and King, Jesus Christ!

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

-Pastor Frank

GOD’S DISCIPLINE IN A FALLEN WORLD

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

On Sunday, April 26, 2026, I received the following inquiry from a faithful, serving, long-term member of West Oaks Fellowship … “How can we tell the difference between God’s discipline and bad things happening because we live in a fallen world?” Needless to say, I love these questions, but I only could offer a short, concise answer at that moment after church. Since then, I’ve developed many outlines on the topic, but all way too long to publish in Fusion or even teach on Sunday or Wednesday evenings, because it would take several weeks.

Here is a condensed version of my study, research, and writings.

Few questions cause more spiritual anguish and confusion for believers than this one: When suffering or difficulty enters our lives, what’s really happening?

Is the Lord God trying to correct us? Is He teaching us something we desperately need to learn? Or are we simply experiencing the brokenness of a world marred by sin—the kind of pain that comes to everyone who lives in a fallen creation?

The distinction matters deeply. For a committed believer desiring to live a faith-based life that glorifies the Lord, knowing the difference between these two realities can reshape how we respond, what we repent of, and how we move forward.

If we’re under God’s discipline, we need to examine our own hearts… if err is found, repent, and then realign our lives with His Word. However, if we’re suffering simply because we live in a fallen world — where catastrophe strikes, friends and family die, accidents happen, and hearts become broken for numerous reasons, then our enemy’s tool of guilt will only compound our pain and anguish or the confusion we may be experiencing. Yet in the midst of hardships, when emotions run high and clarity feels elusive, discerning between these two life-long realities may be difficult or seem almost impossible.

This confusion is not a sign of weak faith. Even mature believers struggle to interpret their various sufferings, especially when well-meaning friends (remember Job’s buddies), and or fellow believers may offer conflicting counsel. Some insist that all hardship is discipline, leaving sufferers to search desperately for hidden rebellion and sins that might not even exist. Others dismiss the possibility of divine correction entirely, potentially missing opportunities for maturing growth, impending correction and spiritually liberating repentance. The truth is more complex than either of those somewhat extreme positions. The Scriptures and God’s Holy Spirit provide us, as Christ’s disciples, with wisdom and direction to navigate these difficult waters. We don’t always enjoy absolute certainty, but we know the light of God’s Truth and the voice of our “Good Shepherd” enough to move forward in faith, trusting our Lord’s direction!

Psalm 119:105 declares, “Your Word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path.” Proverbs 4:18-19 reminds us, “But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, that shines brighter and brighter until the full day. The way of the wicked is like darkness; They do not know over what they stumble”.

When our house flooded as a result of Hurricane Harvey, I did break down crying one short time in the arms of brother Joseph Hay at the sight of the pile of all our really nice furniture (that we had had all of our lives together) and irreplaceable family heirlooms that had been accumulated for years and years. The loss was real. The grief was genuine. In that moment, standing in the wreckage of our home, the question at the heart of this entire essay became intensely personal: Were we being punished or disciplined due to our rebellion or sin? Was this simply the consequence of living in a fallen world where hurricanes destroy homes? Or was it somehow both?

The answer, I discovered, reveals exactly why discerning between God’s discipline and fallen-world suffering is so challenging—because they often operate simultaneously, on multiple levels, in the same event. Ultimately the Lord had many, many plans in play. Undoubtedly some were being disciplined, or even punished … individuals, families, and perhaps even communities or businesses. Others were appointed to die (see Hebrews 9:27) and still others would experience severe consequences. The damage to our home alone would cost 80-100K to repair.

Isaiah 55:8-9 speaks clearly – “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.

Yet at the same time—and this is crucial—opportunities arose. Churches and Christians saw the needs and mobilized to minister to anyone and everyone, including those involved in their ministries that were suffering. In our case, church members and friends came to completely demo everything under 4 feet throughout our entire house. Someone set up a Go Fund Me account which we didn’t ask for, but it became a huge blessing! Many people were indeed blessed by giving and simply helping out in many, many ways. I will never forget Melanie and Connie showing up with their special cleaning supplies and Filipino style brooms! FEMA helped nominally, providing some temporary housing, and Fort Bend County came along and replaced our entire A/C unit and water header over a year after the flood because it was considered a bio-hazard.

Psalm 145:17-19 expresses the Truth, “The Lord is righteous in all His ways and kind in all His deeds. The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth. He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him; He will also hear their cry and will save them.”

Throughout the whole process, we suffered lots of difficulties and discomfort, but we just kept going in the strength our Lord was providing every day. This is what makes the distinction between discipline and fallen-world suffering so complex in real life: both realities can be present in the same circumstance. The flood was a consequence of living in a broken creation. God’s redemptive purposes were simultaneously at work through His people. Some were experiencing correction. Others were experiencing loss. And many—like us—were experiencing both suffering and blessing, woven together in ways only God could orchestrate. Ultimately, we suffered greatly, but at the same time, were abundantly blessed!

Romans 11:33-36 lays it out –“Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways! For WHO HAS KNOWN THE MIND OF THE LORD, OR WHO BECAME HIS COUNSELOR? Or WHO HAS FIRST GIVEN TO HIM THAT IT MIGHT BE PAID BACK TO HIM AGAIN? For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen.”

The good news is that God is not playing games with us, hiding His intentions while we guess frantically at the meanings of our struggles or pain. He is a loving Father who communicates with His children, a Good Shepherd who guides His flock, and a faithful God whose character remains constant (unchanging / unchangeable / immutable – see Hebrews 13:8, James 1:17) even when our circumstances feel chaotic. While absolutely perfect discernment may elude us this side of eternity, we can know and learn to recognize the distinguishing marks of His discipline and the fingerprints of a fallen world that continually remain under His sovereignty. However, more importantly, we can fully trust that whether we’re experiencing correction from our loving Lord, or simply living in a broken creation, God’s purposes for us remain redemptive and purposeful! His presence (omnipresence) remains, and His unending love remains perfectly steadfast.

So if God is truly this good, this communicative, this committed to our growth—then what does His discipline actually look like in practice? How do we recognize it when it comes? The answer lies in learning to see the distinguishing marks of divine correction; the particular fingerprints God leaves on our lives when He’s calling us back to Himself. Let’s explore what biblical discipline looks like so you can move forward with confidence, knowing whether the Lord is speaking correction into your life or whether you’re simply weathering the storms that come to all of us in this broken world.

The Character of God’s Discipline

When God disciplines His children, He does so with the precision of a skilled surgeon and the tenderness of a devoted, godly parent. Biblical discipline is never arbitrary, vindictive, or designed to crush us; rather, it is corrective, purposeful, and redemptive. Hebrews 12:5-11 provides the definitive framework for understanding divine discipline, reminding us that “the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and He chastens everyone He accepts as His son.” This discipline targets specific areas of rebellion, sin, spiritual immaturity, or dangerous trajectories in our lives. It comes with conviction, a very clear, Holy Spirit-led awareness of that which needs modification, rather than invoking shame, guilt, or some form of paralyzing despair. When the Lord corrects us, there is typically a discernible connection between the area of our disobedience and the nature of the discipline we are experiencing. A person who has been dishonest in business dealings might face exposure or financial consequences; someone who has neglected their family might experience relational breakdown that forces them to confront their priorities. This discipline feels personal because it is personal! God always knows exactly what we need to mature and grow into Christlikeness. Moreover, His discipline is always proportionate and apparently time-limited.

Hebrews 12:11 reminds us – “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.”

Our Lord, Jesus Christ’s goal is not punishment but transformation (See Romans 12:1-2), not retribution but restoration. His discipline is an expression of His commitment to our total sanctification, which proves that He loves us too much to leave us as we are!

This concludes part 1. I will try to get part 2 out ASAP, but perhaps it won’t be finished until it’s time for next month’s Fusion.

His and yours, Because of G R A C E (God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense),

PF

“FAITH OVER FEAR”

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

In a world increasingly characterized by uncertainties, anxieties from numerous sources, and persistent fears such as global pandemics, economic instability, political corruption, media deception, general turmoil stirred by social media, moral / ethical compromise, and individual / personal challenges, the timeless Biblical concept / principle of “FAITH OVER FEAR” stands as a beacon of strength for us as believers. This phrase should become a rallying cry for each and every faithful follower of Jesus Christ – not just in 2026, but as a deeply embedded lifestyle.

Genuine faith in our sovereign Lord, the God of all the known and unknown throughout the entire creation / universe, is a divinely appointed antidote to the potentially paralyzing grip of human fear. But what does “FAITH OVER FEAR” actually mean from an exclusive biblical perspective? It must rise above, being far more than some catchy promotion slogan or motivational cliché. At its core, this basic biblically based principle represents a fundamental choice that every believer must make daily … an intentional / deliberate decision to trust the Lord God’s character, His promises, and the absolute truth of His providence … rather than surrendering to the worries, concerns / apprehensions, and fears that seek to engage, even controlling, our minds and hearts.

FAITH OVER FEAR requires an anchoring of one’s soul in the unchanging, immutable Truth found only in the Word of God rather than the shifting circumstances and experiences of one’s life. It means believing that Jesus Christ is exactly who and what He says He is … that He will do and accomplish all He has promised to do, and that His purposes for our lives are not only good, but perfect, even when we don’t fully understand them. This means choosing to walk in faithful obedience to God’s Word, the Lord’s callings, and the direction / leadership of His Holy Spirit even when every natural instinct screams at us to shrink back in fear (retreat), hide, or surrender in some mental / emotional compromise.

The Apostle Paul beautifully captures this tension that all believers routinely deal with while encouraging Pastor Timothy to be steadfast and fulfill his ministry / calling / life-purpose in 2 Timothy 1:7!

For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline.

This verse reveals that paralyzing fear, as “a spirit of timidity,” can attempt to control, thwart, or even destroy divine purposes! This “spirit of timidity” obviously does not originate from God, as the biblical text clearly states, but instead, the Lord has properly equipped believers with power (dunamis in Greek, from which we get “dynamite”), love (agape, the self-sacrificing, benevolent love that comes from God – 1 John 4:19), and a sound mind (sophronismos, meaning self-discipline / control and sound / good judgment)! These divine endowments purposefully enable believers to continually face our life challenges with spiritual courage and discernment that’s rooted in faith rather than cowering in fear.

Throughout the Scriptures, recurring commands like “Fear not” or “Do not be afraid” appear at least 365 times. (Side note — one for every day of the year, as if God knew we would definitely need this daily reminder). This repetition is not coincidental, but directly reflects God’s understanding of our human nature / weaknesses, and His desire for His children to live an abundant life (John 10:10) in the framework of His freedom with genuine faith, rather than being captivated by one’s worldly fears. Authentic faith in the Lord is designed to overcome any “spirit of timidity!”

Biblical faith is far more than intellectual assent to certain propositions or wishful thinking about particular desired goals / outcomes / objectives. The writer of Hebrews provides us with the description of God-centered / Christ-centered / Word-centered / Truth-centered faith that some might deem as a little confusing.

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the men of old gained approval.

Hebrews 11:1-2

The Greek word for “assurance” (hypostasis) carries the meaning of “confidence” — genuine biblical faith provides reality / substance. Then the word for “conviction” (elenchos) means “evidence” or “proof” — faith provides convincing proof of realities one cannot yet see / experience in the framework of our human understanding. This is exactly how the “men of old gained approval” as exemplified in the balance of Chapter 11.

As one reads through that text, notice this kind of faith is not passive or abstract. It is active, dynamic, and transformative. It is a confident trust (biblical hope) in God that produces action, obedience, and much perseverance – even in the face of overwhelming odds and obvious obstacles. Those mentioned in this “Hall of Faith” clearly demonstrate, by their obedient actions, that biblical faith always results in courageous action, rather than the paralysis of human fears.

Furthermore, biblical faith is not faith in faith itself — not something stirred up from the human spirit (as often being taught by many ministers in many modern-day churches). No, it’s faith in God Himself and His Truth – removed and separated from the best efforts, wisdom and thinking of any human being! This single, proper, object of one’s faith holds all the power and determines faith’s effectiveness. The woman with the issue of blood (Matthew 9, Mark 5, Luke 8) had been suffering from a hemorrhage of some 12 years and had spent all her money seeking healing from the doctors. This ailment deemed her socially and spiritually “unclean” and forced her into isolation. Nonetheless, her persistent, single-minded faith in Jesus Christ caused her, in unwavering belief, to reach out and touch His garment. Notice her thoughts as recorded in Mark 5:28 . . .

“If I just touch His garment, I will get well”

Her belief was not based on anything other than the known works and reputation of Jesus Christ! One does not overcome fear by mustering up more positive thinking or by believing harder in our own abilities. No, fear is overcome by knowing God / Truth more deeply and trusting Christ more fully and completely!

As one matures spiritually, growing in a better / fuller understanding of our Lord’s nature / character, His sovereignty, love, power, and faithfulness towards those who believe, one’s genuine faith increases, and the fears that creep in, making us timid and holding us back, will continually weaken! Ultimately, faith-living becomes the lifestyle of every believer as one trusts the Lord more and more each and every day of our lives. Therefore, Christ’s genuine followers come to comprehend and actively experience Hebrews 11:6!

And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.

Help us Lord Jesus, may we be / become Your men and women of genuine biblical faith that will indeed triumph over all our worldly, cultural, religious, relational, situational / circumstantial, family, and personal fears!

We can do this … FAITH OVER FEAR … let’s work on it together by encouraging one another to actually LIVE OUR FAITH OUT LOUD!

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

Pastor Frank

APOSTLE PAUL

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

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

Philippians 1:9-11

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pastor Frank

A CHALLENGE FROM PASTOR FRANK

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

On Tuesday evening we gathered as believers in preparation for the year 2025, reaffirming our commitment to Christ Jesus by participating together in Communion (The Lord’s Supper).

Before the partaking of Communion, the Lord encouraged me to take the opportunity that was available and share a few things that He was stirring my heart with. For those of you that attended the New Years Eve service Tuesday evening, this is simply a reminder of the challenges I shared. For those that weren’t able to make it, here are a few things “the Church” (at large) and our local New Testament Church body, aka West Oaks Fellowship, needs to focus in on immediately, as we say goodbye to 2024 and shift our focus to what lies ahead in 2025 and beyond!

Believers are called to live a life of spiritual awareness (alertness),  spiritual fulfillment, and faith because we are made alive (have life, are now living) in and through our Lord and Christ Jesus! As the Lord’s people, we have an open (standing) invitation to live moment by moment, fully embracing these concepts as essentials for successful and productive Christian living.

However, the challenge started with a reminder that our God / Lord is the same yesterday, today, and forever from Hebrews 13:8 and Psalm 102:25-28. Therefore, no matter whatever is going on in our lives and / or in our world. . . in good days of celebrating and rejoicing, or difficult ones . . . we must rest in the confident assurance of our Lord’s faithfulness with all our hope fixed solely on HIM! We serve the same Lord, who remains the same in every one of our situations … suffering or in prosperity, strong or weak, meek or bold, doubting or fearless, sad or in joyful celebration!

YOUR LORD IS NOT CHANGING — even though you will be, and according to James 1:17 there is no variation or “shifting shadow” in the framework of His character / nature!

CHALLENGE #1 – Be SPIRITUALLY ALERT (aware) IN 2025!

1 Peter 5:8 reminds every one of Christ’s genuine followers to be of “sober spirit” and to be “on the alert” (spiritually aware). Know this, spiritual awareness is essential according to 1 Corinthians 16:13; believers are not asked, but told / commanded to “be alert” and “stand firm” – acting like grown-ups instead of babies!

CHALLENGE #2 – Be SPIRITUALLY FULFILLED IN 2025!

John 10:10 confirms that Jesus Christ came so that we might have “life” and have life “abundantly!” Spiritual fulfillment is a vital aspect because, according to 1 Corinthians 3:20, our Lord is able to work in and through us, as believers, far more “abundantly” than we even can “ask” or “think!”

CHALLENGE #3 – LIVE BY FAITH IN 2025!

In Galatians 2:20, New Testament Christians are challenged to this perspective and calling. This is not about religious participation, but a responsive life lived in conjunction with Christ’s purposes and goals for each individual believer. Death – the crucifixion of one’s own flesh – opens the door to this exhilarating life of faith! One must forever stop living by sight, or human perspective, and according to 2 Corinthians 5:7, walk by faith in Christ Jesus, His Word, and the Holy Spirit, because as stated in Romans 1:7 and Habakkuk 2:4, the just or “the righteous live by faith!”

Will you accept this challenge? If so, it will positively change you, making you more into the image of Jesus Christ, which will dynamically change our church, making us a stronger and more cohesive body, which will change our community / society, then hopefully our country and our world!

May our hearts unite with many, many generations of faithful brothers and sisters in Christ who have relentlessly decided to follow Jesus … “no turning back, no turning back” … the world behind me, the cross before me, no turning back, no turning back!”

His & Yours, because of GRACE

(God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense)

-PF

        

GOVERNMENT (PLUS- VOTING OPPORTUNITY IN THE USA)

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

Biblically speaking, we find several forms of government all primarily emerging or developing from what I would refer to historically as nomadic. While there is much evidence of early monarchies like Melchizedek, King of Salem (Genesis 14:18, Hebrews 7:1-2) and the Pharaohs of Egypt (which mostly followed the principals of heredity) (Genesis, Exodus, Deuteronomy), most humans lived and survived in what I would classify as tribal units with some form of chieftains as their leaders to uphold laws and regulations.

Abram / Abraham is an excellent example, being literally an Arab, which originally referred to a semitic group of people (all descendants of Abraham) who lived in nomadic people groups.

For the Hebrew people, their governments varied significantly during different periods of time throughout their existence / history: (1) the nomadic period, from the Exodus to the entrance into Palestine; (2) the period of transition from nomadic to civil life military / spiritual leaders and judges; (3) the monarchy; (4) the period of subjection to other nations such as the Assyrians, Babylonians, Medio Persians; (5) the period from Ezra to the Greeks; (6) Greek rule; (7) Roman rule; and then most recently, since 1948, (8) a parliamentarian democracy.

God’s purpose for government is multifaceted: (1) regulate a sinful, rebellious society by establishing law and order for a people group; (2) to promote safety, peace, well-being, and justice for the good of individuals and nations (Romans 13:4); (3) for His purposes and glory.

However, just like churches, government is made up of human beings, some bad / evil / corrupt and some good, desiring to lead and govern in a proper and righteous manner. The intent of government, according to Romans 13:4 was never intended for the good or prosperity of those engaged in the governing, but instead for the progress and benefit of the governed . . . “for it is a minister of God to you for good.”

That was the philosophy of the majority of our founding fathers and why politician Daniel Webster, in a speech to the Senate in 1830 said, “It is, Sir, the people’s Constitution, the people’s Government, made for the people, made by the people, and answerable to the people!” And, as you most likely know, President Abraham Lincoln (republican) modified this statement along with one borrowed from Preacher Theodore Parker, in his famous Gettysburg address declaring “that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom — and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”

THAT’S EXACTLY WHY CHRISTIANS SHOULD VOTE! In addition, we should only vote our godly, biblically-based values as believers, if we actually hope for God’s blessing and protection to be upon our nation! If you can’t vote the truth and things of your faith in Christ and the Truth of His Word, then don’t vote.

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

Proverbs 14:34

By the blessing of the upright a city is exalted, but by the mouth of the wicked it is torn down.

Proverbs 11:11

He changes rivers into a wilderness and springs of water into a thirsty ground; A fruitful land into a salt waste, because of the wickedness of those who dwell in it.

Psalm 107: 33-34

While I totally agree, there is no perfect candidate, for president or any other office, nor is there a perfect political party platform (which is why I’m a constitutional independent – not voting for a person, or culture, but instead for a position – actual held belief), we should vote to uphold the concept of, “a nation, under God . . . government of the people, by the people, for the people” in hope and prayer that it “shall not perish from the earth” (while highly unlikely) until CHRIST JESUS IS RULING and REIGNING AS KING!

Then, and only then, each of us and our world will experience a perfect leader who will organize and direct a perfect government!

Just in case you were wondering, what is a perfect government? There’s only one . . . A benevolent, righteous theocracy where the perfect will of the perfect leader is established and upheld 24/7. This removes the unrighteousness of humanity!

And I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse, and He who sat on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and wages war. His eyes are a   flame of fire, and on His head are many diadems; and He has a name written on Him which no one knows except Himself. He is clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God. And the armies which are in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean, were following Him on white horses. From His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the wine press of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty. And on His robe and on His thigh He has a name written, “KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.”

Revelation 19: 11-16

Until then, pray and vote, vote and pray. Come Lord Jesus!

The king’s favor is toward a servant who acts wisely, But his anger is toward him who acts shamefully.

Proverbs 14:35

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

-PF

GUILT -V- CONVICTION

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

Too often believers (true followers of Jesus Christ) ask, “Is what I’m experiencing (feeling)guilt or conviction?”

Initially, one must come to recognize the ultimate goal / purpose of these sentiments and responses or reactions as an elementary (basic / foundational) part of successful, abundant Christian living (John 10:10). The ultimate objective or purpose of biblical / spiritual conviction is to bring about behavior modification / transformation, working to shape or mold an individual into a stronger, more mature, disciple of the Lord. The overriding objective of guilt is spiritually destructive, working to make one feel worthless, unlovable, unacceptable, and even, perhaps, as useless as possible, due to recent or even past improper, sinful behavior. Feelings of guilt leave out the most critical, spiritual step of “turning from”from something of disgrace and rebellion and “turning to” something of righteousness and truth!

The palmist put it this way … “Depart from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. The eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous, and His ears are open to their cry.” (Psalm 34:14-15) Romans 10:9b declares, “Abhor (shudder from) what is evil; cling to what is good.” Then consider 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22, “But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil.”

Christ’s church / believers in Thessalonica had an incredible testimony among those in Macedonia and Achaia because they had, “turned to God from idols to serve a living and true God!” (1 Thessalonians 1:9-10)

So genuine conviction, either in the aspect of salvation, or in the process of spiritual development and growing into maturity, embraces the concept of a significant turning! This behavior is the turning away from something, as in laying something aside (those things which so easily entangle us – Hebrews 12:1), and turning to and fully embracing something else. That’s turning from known sin / rebellion, as a result of spiritual / biblical conviction, and then turning fully to … wholeheartedly embracing the Lord’s (biblical) Truth on the matter through spiritual, mental, and behavioral transformation / extreme modification. (Romans 12:1-2) Our Lord’s objective in conviction is always change for the better, His people becoming permanently more like Him! (2 Peter 1:4)

“For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed (fashioned or shaped, having likeness) to the image of His Son!”

Romans 8:29

Therefore, conviction, as a result of God’s Word and the working of God’s Holy Spirit in one’s life, is an awesome gift and incontestable blessing from the Lord to assist each and every one of His followers while remaining in life on this earth as His children, servants, ministers, and ambassadors.

With all that said, guilt, on the other hand, is not good and is not a gift from above, but instead a tool of the enemy to cripple and render useless the Lord’s people. That’s why being able to discern each feeling(guilt or conviction) – and its true source – is a highly valuable tool in the daily walk of every believer. By the way, the way we use the word, in relation to “feeling guilty” about something isn’t really in the scriptures, although the word for shame may in some biblical references be similar. Our enemies, whether that be self, one’s own flesh, the world or the devil himself, are always actively presenting the human emotions of guilt, regret, blame, and shame. They want these emotions to plant voices and negative, destructive feelings right inside believers; telling us that we are no good, that we are not free (to obey Christ rather than one’s sin nature), that we will undoubtedly do that ugly sin and rebellion again (over and over), and that if anyone finds out — the hat of unworthiness will surely rest upon one’s head for everyone to see, and surely God’s love, as well as His redemption, is nullified due to one’s own actions / behavior!

Remember …“he is a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44). In reality, guilt declares that we are responsible for saving ourselves, and that because, for humans, Christ’s disciples know and understand that that saving oneself is impossible, therefore the enemy throws accusations at believers (remember he is the accuser of Christ-followers – Revelation 12:10), declaring that grace is exhausted (all used up because of one’s sinful behavior)and there remains no hope, no peace, no deliverance, etc., etc.!

An individual’s feelings of guilt will result in hiding from the Lord in shame, just like Adam and Eve did in the Garden. One either runs to Christ or runs away … hiding in guilt and shame! There are all kinds of issues, mental and physical, related to living in guilt and shame, besides the spiritual consequences, which are not addressed in this document. However, there is a way out, a path to victory, if guilt has its debilitating stranglehold on you!

“Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.”

Ephesians 6:11-13

“Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”

James 4:7

Deal with one’s sin before the Lord

“How blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered! How blessed is the man to whom the Lord does not impute iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit! When I kept silent about my sin, my body wasted away through my groaning all day long. For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me; My vitality was drained away as with the fever heat of summer. Selah. I acknowledged my sin to You, and my iniquity I did not hide; I said, ‘I will confess my transgressions to the Lord’; and You forgave the guilt of my sin. Selah.”

Psalm 32:1-5

Never let the past have a place in or control your future

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.”

2 Corinthians 5:17

“Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

Philippians 3:13-14

Guilt is not for us, but spiritual conviction is a precious tool for the Lord to keep us moving forward on the right path for His glory!

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

PF 

ONE BODY

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

In June of 1985, 12 young people (mostly early 30’s or younger) sat in a living room, all pretty hurt and confused by the situations at our church, and reluctantly decided it would be best to form a new church. At that moment, we had hoped to be an outreach mission of our former church, and had no idea we wouldn’t be a member of the Southern Baptist denomination.

As things evolved, neither of those falsely presumed opportunities played out, which kind of left us hanging out on a limb.

We all knew the scriptures pretty well, and fully understood that the Baptist Church we were involved in wasn’t operating scripturally, but on the other hand, due to our Baptist heritage, had no real idea about being an independent, New Testament-based body of believers.

That reality forced us to dive deeper into God’s Word / Truth, longing for clarification and understanding to answer the question, “What is a New Testament Church and how should it operate?” We wrote letters to many churches (this was way before easy access web pages) asking them to share their doctrinal and organizational documents. In addition, for the next six months, mainly on Wednesday nights and Sunday evenings, we studied the biblical text alongside the documents provided by other ministries. We even actually discouraged other people from coming, stating that we didn’t know … have a clue … what we were going to do, and what the forming of a biblically-based New Testament Church actually looked like, and we certainly had no vision of becoming multi-ethnic as we are today!

We learned:

  • Sharing / Speaking the Truth (God’s Word) in Love should be at the very foundation of the new ministry.

Ephesians 4:14-16

  • That people, by considering the ministry of Jesus Christ, were more important than programs.

1 Corinthians 12:14-19

  • That we needed proper, biblically-qualified and spiritual leadership to serve Christ’s Church in biblically-defined roles.

Titus 1:6-9; 1 Timothy 3:1-7; 1 Timothy 3:8-13; 1 Peter 4:10-11

  • That the praise and worship of Jesus Christ, combined with ministry to / for one another, was absolutely essential, even though it was quite difficult to find a functioning scriptural model for us to emulate.

Psalm 34:1-3; Romans 12:10-13; Romans 12:15-16; Romans 15:7-8; Philippians 2:1-4; James 5:16

Needless to say, over the last 39 years, it has been difficult to stay focused and remain on path, and I have failed time and time again to keep things moving in the right direction. As I look back, perhaps the hardest years were those that hopefully have just passed – with the COVID issues, along with people leaving and, completely contrary to the scriptures (Hebrews 10:23-25), deciding that being connected to and active in a church body (attending worship services and fellowship opportunities) is not important … devaluing some of the very reasons Christ established His Church. It’s truly heartbreaking to see individuals become less and less connected, eventually just removing themselves from being a vital part of the body’s function, which actually causes every other member of the body to suffer and struggle a little.

Certainly, our church body is not perfect, nor are the humans (all of us, including the ministerial staff) perfect, but that doesn’t excuse or exempt us from attempting to function according to Christ’s design as a legitimate New Testament Church, founded and operating on that foundation without reference to various forms of denominationalism and / or religion.

Therefore, I really, genuinely need and fully appreciate your prayers and faithful support. WOF must maintain its course! To do that we must uphold, as absolutely essential, the parameters originally established at our inception, while embracing the need for reaching and training faithful individuals who are committed to growing in Christ, and whole-heartedly yielding (no matter what our world says or promotes), respecting and honoring the adherence to biblically-qualified leadership who will sacrificially serve Christ and His church.

Over the last couple of years, months, and even weeks, our Lord has brought new believers into our body, which is really encouraging. With that in mind and the opportunity that presents, we must as “one body” move forward once again (in year 39) in complete, unhesitant, and over-flowing response to Christ’s imperative command of making disciples (and disciple makers) from His declaration in Matthew 28:19-20!

I’m all in, even in my old age! How about you?

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

PF

THE HAMAS (RELIGIOUS/POLITICAL) CULT

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

How is it that Hamas protesters (hiding under the concept of being pro-Palestine), some now rioters, can openly / publicly chant, “From the river to the sea,” “death to Israel / death to America,” “we are Hamas” and / or “intifada” and at the same time, in the same breath, accuse the IDF (Israeli Defense Force) of genocide? Those very mantras promote, and are undoubtedly, inexplicably, declaring the complete elimination / annihilation of an entire people group from the face of the earth! That, in essence, ties in perfectly with the ideology of Hitler and his Third Reich (within its first 6 years issued 400 legal restrictions against Jews with them ultimately becoming “Enemies of the State” – nationalizing their businesses, confiscating their assets / property, encampment, and promoting their total elimination) which exalts the value of one people group (Aryans) as superior to all others (instigating Aryanization and the “popular anger” movement within Germany), while discounting and eradicating the value of one group to being useless (Jews), therefore not even worthy of life itself (The Holocaust)!

As believers in Christ Jesus, we recognize the value of human life, holding, that according to the scriptures, all humans are created in the image and likeness of the Creator (see Genesis 1:27) and that life is viewed as precious (see Psalm 139:13-16)! Job 12:10 asks, “In whose hand is the life of every living thing, and the breath of all mankind?”

Humanity is not some cosmic accident, as many who desire to live unaccountable lives promote and encourage others to believe, but instead is the product of a carefully executed creation by a perfect, holy, sovereign, and eternal superior being … God. Human dignity is therefore derived directly from God Himself, with individuals being finite, dependent creatures who have been assigned a high value / worth by their own Creator (enough value for Christ Jesus to suffer in accordance with the consequences of humanity’s sin and offer then full and complete restoration – see John 3:16-17).

The current pro-Hamas / anti-Israel students and professional demonstrators / students and non-student imported protestors are now using the phrase “Free Gaza / Free Palestine.” (I guess they all must have skipped out on their modern-day history classes.)  In the January 2006 Palestinian legislative election, Hamas defeated the ruling Fatah (political party) by winning 74 of 132 seats. Since that time, there have been no (yes, “zero”) free elections in the Hamas-controlled Gaza. Then in 2007, a presidential decree was issued abolishing all legislative seats that were not in agreement with Hamas’ leadership / ideology. While the western media reports that 70-72% of the Palestinians currently support the Hamas regime, there is no credible evidence to document that figure and no consideration of any potential/possible persecution “fear factor” incorporated within that questionable statistic.

Do the current American pro-Hamas protestors even understand the core values of Hamas? If they did, their public outcries would most likely be drawn back in deep silence.  Is anyone even asking, “What’s the role of women within the framework of the Hamas religious / political cult society?”

Women make up approximately 50% of the population in Gaza, but have very limited influence, and their basic individual rights are systematically denied. The women’s importance is that they, “manufacture men (Hamas warriors), and play a great role educating and guiding the (new) generation.” There remains widespread discrimination, contrary to Hamas’s public statements, along with extremely limited employment opportunities, and virtually no pathways to financial independence. Female abuse is rampant, adultery laws are codified according to gender, divorcees must pay their husbands to get out of a marriage, but the men can divorce their wife cost-free for any reason, and in Hamas controlled Gaza, a woman’s testimony is only worth half (½) of a male’s.  In addition, Hamas engages a “Modesty Police,” which is empowered to enforce a “Code Of Modesty” upon the women of Gaza, severely restricting basic freedoms of movement and expression. Hijah (Islamic head coverings) should be worn while in schools, at courthouses, and on beaches. This code also prohibits the riding of motorcycles, learning to drive without the presence of a man, using a male hairdresser, submitting an incest complaint, and / or even engaging in some sporting / athletic events. In 2013 a UNRWA (United Nations Relief And Works Agency For Palestine) Marathon was cancelled due to the Hamas “Code Of Modesty.”

Hamas’ ideology combines nationalism and the political Islamism of the Muslim Brotherhood. In terms of the religion, they are Salafist, which means they adhere to Islamic Sharia law and believe that a Palestinian state should be governed in that manner.  However, within the framework of that religious system, Hamas attempts to achieve its political ambitions by combining social mobilization, political organization / negotiation, and the use of severe violence. Therefore, they should be considered a jihadist group given that it does not rule out violence as a political strategy to further or obtain its objective. It’s a religious cult whose “modus operandi” merits the use of extreme violence, in numerous /various forms, as means to accompany political bargaining. Therefore, it can and does, spiritually, morally, and ethically, justify carrying out grotesque terrorist actions against civilians (even slaughtering babies and raping children) and even a country’s military, such as the massacre launched on October 7, 2023 during the Re’im Music Festival in Israel.

It’s not difficult to see how genuine believers, true followers of Christ and the doctrines / theology of the New Testament find great conflict with any support for Hamas, its activities, and its ideology.  While certainly a person can be / should be concerned with the loss of life of life caused by war … Hamas’ ongoing war with Israel, is no different. Don’t forget, war is all about destroying things and killing / disabling an enemy. However, current social media and some regular media sources are referring to Israel’s retaliatory actions as a disproportionate response and genocide. Undocumented sources claim 30,000+ have died in Gaza — about 18,000 is actually more accurate, and yes that’s a lot of individuals! However, Hamas doesn’t value human life as committed Christians do and even other cultures / societies — that’s why they are willing to use brain-washed children and women as human shields for their soldiers and military stronghold if that action achieves their objectives!  Therefore, it is impossible to attack Hamas’ military without inflicting civilian casualties (as is the case in most armed conflicts). The real victims in Gaza are the civilians who are being used / sacrificed in a ludicrous / preposterous manner by their own “elected” government! 

Remember, Cain of Genesis? He was a violent human being. Humanity is still violent… while at times historically, we see the decrease and increase of wars and violence … currently our world is in a season of escalated violence and war. Jesus Christ, while visiting earth, warned us concerning these days … “For nation (people group) will rise against nation (people group), and kingdom against kingdom, and in various places there will be famines and earthquakes. But all these things are merely the beginning of birth pangs.” (See Matthew 24:7-8, Mark 13:8, Luke 21:10-11) “Nation against nation, kingdom against kingdom” is simply an idiom for war in and around the world or perhaps even world war … a global conflict that is signaling the approaching end of this current age. The “birth pangs” will continue and, of course grow more frequent. Deception and division in both society and the church will increase, which we clearly see and are encountering, but our Lord Jesus spoke this to His disciples / followers as well, “See to it that no one misleads you. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will mislead many.  You will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not frightened, for those things must take place, but that is not yet the end. (See Matthew 24:4-6)

What we are currently witnessing / experiencing on our college campuses, in the Middle East, with Ukraine and Russia, and even on our own borders, should not be unexpected, but anticipated. The consummation of the ages is coming and these type of issues and conflicts will certainly arise!

What then shall we do? How then should we live?

Encourage one another, don’t grow weary in doing good, stay connected to your church (too many are disconnected), and remember to pray for the peace of Jerusalem which will only be ratified when our Lord, Jesus Christ sits upon His throne, ruling and reigning in righteousness! (see 1 Thessalonians 5:11, 2 Thessalonians 3:13, Ephesians 2:10, Hebrews 10:24-25, Psalm 122:6, 1 Corinthians 15:24-25, Revelation 11:15)

His and Yours, Because of GRACE (God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense)

–PF