Tag: john

FAITH & FREEDOM

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

Over the past 34 years of our newsletters, I’ve written numerous articles on various aspects of “faith” and volumes on the subject of “freedom.”  They are undoubtedly 2 of my favorite topics because both are absolutely essential elements of abundant and successful Christian living this side of Heaven or Christ’s Kingdom!  Today, I will connect some of the dots between faith and political, as well as spiritual, freedom.  

The USA is unquestionably the freest, strongest, and most prosperous nation in all of history. This miraculous development is in large part thanks to one American leader’s significant contribution of bravery in battle, perseverance through hardships, patience with those who opposed him, and wisdom while in power. This astonishing, gallant, Virginian rode a majestic white horse and actually lived by the ideals of which he spoke. There were not many dry eyes in America on September 17, 1796 when George Washington announced his final farewell from public life. At that moment, he stated that the survival of freedom in our nation would have nothing to do with him, and everything to do with the character of its people and the government that they would elect.  He said,

Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, … religion and morality are indispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of patriotism who should labor to subvert these great pillars of human happiness, these firmest props of the duties of men and citizens. The mere politician, equally with pious man, ought to respect and cherish them. A volume could not trace all the connections with private and public felicity. Let it simply be asked where is the security for property, for reputation, for life, if the sense of religious obligation desert the oaths, which are the instruments of investigation in Courts of Justice?  And let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion. Whatever may be conceded to the influence of refined education on minds of peculiar structure, reason and experience both forbid us to expect that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle.

Washington knew well that a nation’s laws spring from its morals and that its morals spring from its “religion.” The religion of which Washington spoke was clear to all who knew him: “It is impossible to govern rightly without God and the Bible.”  Unquestionably, “religion,” as used by President Washington, was faith in God/Jesus Christ and His Word, the Bible!

In his essay, “What I Saw In America,” the Englishman G. K. Chesterton observed that

America is the only nation in the world that is founded on a creed. That creed is set forth with dogmatic and even theological lucidity in the Declaration of Independence.

Chesterton was referring to the second paragraph of America’s founding document which states:

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

The very starting point of the Declaration’s argument was faith in the “Creator!” Have you ever considered the similarity of this statement to the Apostle Paul’s initial proposition in Romans 1:19-20? …

because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.

YIKES-seems like our founders believed, by faith, in the CREATOR referenced in Romans 1!

While I’m constantly amazed at the bondage many believers choose to live in (Galatians 3:1-5), as well as gaps of faith that destroy one’s joy and peace in everyday life, one must come to recognize that spiritual freedom is the free gift from God (Romans 5:15), and that it only comes to individuals who believe the truth of Jesus Christ (John 8:32).

Then, upon that faith, one is able to live daily by faith (in God/Christ and His Word – Galatians 2:20), free from the bondage of this world’s system’s  sin and death (Romans 8:2-4). That faith is the very root of one’s own spiritual freedom in Christ, and the only valid, sustaining basis of political freedom/liberty in society.

Remember, without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6). Is that true for a nation and its leaders as well?  What is a nation without faith in the one true God?  Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord! (Psalm 33:12)

Are we, as the people of America, able to declare, “In God we trust,” or is that so politically incorrect that it’s being swept under the carpet in absolute denial and complete rejection of the Creator that was openly acknowledged at the birth of our great nation?  Only a fool declares, there is no God (Psalm 14:1) … and whose country is it anyway … our government’s, the politicians’, the people’s or the Lord’s (Job 12:23-25)?     

I know, lots to think and pray about …                      His & Yours, PF

FEAR OF DEATH

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

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

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

Hebrews 2:14-15 puts it this way,

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

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

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

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

In John 11:25-27 our Lord declared,

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

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

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

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

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

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

Consider I Corinthians 15:54-57:

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

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

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

— Pastor Frank  

ABRAHAM’S BOSOM

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

In Luke 16:22, one finds a distinct contrast in the temporary destiny of two individuals after each of their physical deaths. One, Lazarus – a poor man, is found in “Abraham’s Bosom,” while the other, a rich man, is found being tormented and bound up in a place called Hades (the place of departed souls or aka – hell).

According to verse 23, there is a great separation or distance  (a great, permanently-fixed chasm according to vs 26) between the rich man (who is experiencing on-going suffering and unquenchable, insatiable thirst … “in this flame” – vs 24) and Lazarus (who is resting in the comfort of Abraham’s Bosom – vs 25).

In this biblical text, Jesus is teaching within the framework and context of Hebrew / Jewish / Rabbinical understanding, which divides the place where departed souls abide … allowing only two very distinct categories.  One holding place is for the righteous — known as the Bosom of Abraham or Abraham’s Bosom, and one for the unrighteous … known as Hades, Hell, Death’s Domain, the Underworld and / or Realm of the Dead. Here, the lost await the 2nd resurrection unto judgment (the Great White Throne -Revelation 20:11-15) and ultimately, as well as finally, the Lake of Fire.

However, the New Testament presents a different perspective for genuine believers, with our souls departing to be in the presence of Christ (Philippians 1:21-23, John 12:25-26, 2 Corinthians 5:6-9, 2 Timothy 6:4-8) while awaiting the continuation / completion of the first resurrection unto life and reward.

Abraham’s Bosom is a place of rest and peace, with the idea being born out of genuine fellowship / relationship. The custom of reclining on couches at a table was prevalent among the Jews, as well as some other middle eastern cultures. This type of seating arrangement brought the head of one person almost into the bosom area of the one who sat or reclined above, beside, or behind another. Thus, to be in the “Bossom of Abraham” meant to be comfortably enjoying that arrangement / alignment in the happiness and rest of whatever event, celebration, or banquet had brought everyone together. In Matthew 8:11, Christ makes reference to this symbolic arrangement, “recline (or dine) at the table with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven.”

Each person leaned on his left arm, as to lay, in the bosom of the next.  The highest place of honor was this position in the bosom of the honored guest, or the master of the host house.

This is clearly depicted in John 13:23 –

There was reclining on Jesus’ bosom one of His disciples, whom Jesus loved.

To be in, lie in, or rest in Abraham’s Bosom, was a phrase illustrating the most highly-blessed repose in close nearness to the patriarchal father of the faithful at a feast / celebration in paradise!

This is a beautiful image for God’s people, but our promise as New Testament believers seems more delightful as we come to rest in the presence of the Creator (Colossians 1:15-20) … and that, my friends, is certainly something worthy of all our praise … and indeed, something to shout about! 

His & Yours, PF  

MONEY

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

MONEY, MONEY, MONEY – some say you can’t live without it, and yet so many can’t live with it! Often, it’s so vital to an individual that it directly competes with one’s ability to even know and/or faithfully serve the Lord. Even though “money” itself is not inherently evil, wicked, or sinful, the undeniable truth is that any amount of money can be accompanied by many temptations and much danger.

King Solomon, who in today’s economy would have had a net worth of around two trillion (2,000,000,000,000 – two thousand billion) in US dollars (source – lovemoney.com), stated in Ecclesiastes 5:10,

“He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves abundance with its income.”

Here’s an individual who may have earned as much as 2,000,000,000 (yes, billion) a year through trade/commerce, tributes, and taxation (enough to spend a million dollars a day for 2000 years, or $5,479,452,054.70 a day for one full year) and what’s he really saying?

  1. The love of money is never satisfied, kind of like what’s found in Proverbs 30:15-16!

“There are three things that will not be satisfied, four that will not say, “Enough”: Sheol, and the barren womb, earth that is never satisfied with water, and fire that never says, “Enough.”

2.    Abundance (Hebrew root, hamon; in this text, meaning a great number of things, wealth, and / or funds) will never satisfy! Isn’t there always something else, something more, something better? 

Augustine of Hippo (early church father, aka St. Augustine) declared, “Until we find our rest in Him, no amount of wealth can ever satisfy.”

While undoubtedly greed is an instigator, a motivational chauffeur that drives individuals to dissatisfaction … who will actually come before the Lord with the heavy load of their unquenchable desire for more and place it on the altar?  Is there genuine peace … a full release of the restlessness in one’s heart with the sacrifice of “wants” and all its embellishments? Remember, those trappings are “never satisfied!”

Scripturally speaking, money / wealth / the accumulation of things is one of the greatest areas for a believer to demonstrate one’s trust in the Lord.  Isn’t that why our scriptures are overflowing with references to money and possessions?  

While certainly many have been blessed materially all their lives, Brenda and I included, that doesn’t mean there weren’t tough or difficult times. In fact, everyone who has, perhaps what some would call an abundance, directly dealt with, or is currently dealing with, the spiritual issue of money, wealth and possessions. Specifically, the devastating sin of greed, which according to Proverbs 28:22, a person with a evil eye (stingy, covetous, greedy) hastens and searches for wealth not knowing or understanding that “want,” in essence, poverty, is the ultimate result.  That’s why believers are reminded:    

Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, “I WILL NEVER DESERT YOU, NOR WILL I EVER FORSAKE YOU,” so that we confidently say, “THE LORD IS MY HELPER, I WILL NOT BE AFRAID. WHAT WILL MAN DO TO ME?”

Hebrews 13:5-6

For this to happen (become realty in one’s life), one must adopt a clear biblical view of money and wealth, recognizing that we are actually called to wealth creation and sound economics by God’s mandate to humanity in Genesis 1:28 concerning the earth (the word subdue in the Hebrew text means to conquer, subjugate and bring into subjection). Our Lord provides all the resources of this world for us to properly manage as good and faithful stewards. When this actually occurs, within the redeemed framework of human responsibility, it inevitably prompts and directs us towards sound, principle / value-based ethical and moral financial action along with decisions that are sensible, knowledgeable, not hasty, and God-honoring. 

Money, wealth, possessions, etc. are all intertwined with one’s spiritual maturity, daily walk, and development. Way too many Christians stagnate right here … ultimately hindering or even draining their spiritual vitality.  Sadly, this huge issue is either unrecognized or ignored, often crippling the effectiveness of one’s peace, service and testimony.  Now is the time for change and decisive action – may God’s people fully, unrelentingly, uncompromisingly, and willfully align themselves properly with our Lord and His Word /  Truth on MONEY, MONEY, MONEY.  The world wants to gobble you up … kill, steal, and destroy you on this issue.  However, Christ came that you may have life, and have it more abundantly!  While the primary focus of this statement from John 10:10 is spiritual, MONEY, for a believer, is spiritual!

His & Yours, PF      

TOLERANCE

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The basic goal of tolerance is a noble one— to eliminate hatred towards other people by encouraging respect for differing ideas and opinions. However, over the past few decades, the word has evolved to mean, “Show respect by approving whatever another person chooses to believe or do.” In this way, our culture touts tolerance as one of the greatest of all virtues.

Actually, this is a pagan/worldly/fleshly/carnal attempt to dethrone the very action God cited as highest: love (see I Corinthians 13:13). Instead of simply acknowledging the values of fellow humans, we are now being asked, or even commanded, to accept and embrace them. This type of “tolerance” is based on the false idea that “truth” is whatever anyone decides or determines it to be, making it relative to each individual. In other words, each individual establishes what is right and wrong, good or evil, sinful or righteous for themselves in their own heart. Such a tenet creates an unavoidable chasm between God’s concept of love and our culture’s tolerance, because the actions of biblical love are rooted in absolute truth from His Holy Word, the Bible.

This shift in paradigm represents a dangerous and real trend that puts all of us on the front lines of a major cultural and spiritual battle. Is it a battle worth fighting? The answer is a resounding yes! Tolerance, as currently defined by our culture, will ultimately result in a society devoid of a biblical foundation. When the philosophy of relativism and the practice of absolute tolerance are adopted as the highest virtues by a society, the truth of Jesus Christ can no longer be proclaimed because it may be, and will be viewed as, offensive to some people. Eventually, in total hypocrisy, claims that our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ is the way and the truth (see John 14:6) will be dismissed as bigotry. Unfortunately, it seems those times are quickly approaching, or perhaps already here!

As Christians, we can fight and win this battle. We must ask ourselves, “Am I afraid of being labeled “intolerant,” or do I care enough to take a real interest in others and share Christ?” While Christians are exhorted to hate evil (see Amos 5:15), we are nonetheless commanded to love our enemies as well as our neighbors (see Leviticus 19:18, Matthew 5:44). For all true disciples of Jesus Christ, this directive relates to all humanity without respect to their gender, race, nationality, heritage, position in life, fame, fortune, looks (good or bad), abilities (great or limited), idiosyncrasies, beliefs, etc. We, as believers, have no business being condescending under any circumstances. Arrogance on our part not only builds a wall between us and others, but it also shows a complete lack of understanding of Christ’s sacrifice and our dependence upon Him.

I Corinthians 13:4 states, “Love does not brag and is not arrogant.” In other words, rather than criticizing harshly, we should gently minister to people whose morality differs from our own biblical principles. Furthermore, displaying true love requires placing a priority on the needs of those around us. Otherwise, it becomes evident that we are not acting out of genuine love for others, but instead are only concerned with ourselves.

Additionally, I Corinthians 13:6 says, “Love does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth.” That means, we should not at all agree with everything/anything! True love means supporting absolute biblical truth. In order to do so, we must know the truth, God’s Word, or else we will have nothing left to stand upon except our own ideas and opinions, similar to those who do not know the truth or its Author. Now, I Corinthians 13:7 teaches, “Love bears all things and endures all things.” However, that doesn’t mean, “Tolerates all things.” No, it actually means that when we take a stand, do what’s right, and/or “speak/share the truth in love,” whether in personal interactions or in the public arena, some people will hate and despise us.

In Matthew 5:44, Jesus tells us to pray for those who persecute us. It is a fact, that no matter how kind we are, we will be persecuted for proclaiming God’s absolute truth. But, if we are genuinely demonstrating His love, we will be motivated to lift our antagonist in prayer, bearing and enduring whatever insults and persecution they deliver. In so doing, your constant prayer for those who insult and persecute you will become a great and powerful weapon to pry open their spiritual eyes and penetrate their stone cold heart!

We must remember that Jesus Christ Himself was not tolerant of all ideas and philosophies. He allowed those He encountered the right to hold and adhere to ridiculous opinions and erroneous philosophical ideas (see Matthew 10:13-14; 12:30). However, our Lord effectively tailored His replies and comments to each individual’s level of spiritual understanding. By so doing, He challenged and expanded their thinking in a God-ward direction (see John 3:3-12; 4:7-29). We might call this approach, “loving the sinner while hating the sin.” It would be extremely wise for us to become “intolerant” exactly in this same way; the way Jesus Himself was. We must become counter-cultural by learning to act out of, and pro-actively respond through, the powerful and holy combination of true biblical love and absolute truth! Jesus was the world’s best at this, but I’m confident He has not failed to equip us with this exact same ability!

Today, there is a desperate need in our church, our families, our diverse culture(s), and in our society to see God’s glory revealed by the application of this divine formula — absolute truth + matchless love (see I Corinthians 13:8). Remember, this fight is not against the intellect of a particular man/woman, against our peers, or others from perhaps different cultures (see Ephesians 6:12). In fact, it is a battle for our friends, loved ones, and all of humanity, which must boldly stand in direct opposition to the wiles and schemes of a tolerant contemporary culture, promoted by Satan himself. Not everyone is going to like us — some will not tolerate us! Yet, as you and I practice love, and develop the right kind, the Jesus kind, of “intolerance,” may you find strength and courage from God’s Holy Spirit and the words of our Lord in John 16:33, “In this world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” YES! In Him we can/will know and experience the victory!

Just think about it – Pastor Frank

ABBA

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

In Romans 8:15, the Apostle Paul employs a Hebraic-Chaldaic word for “Father” to help believers understand their freedom in Christ and their current relationship with God. In ancient Jewish households, the servants and slaves were never permitted to address the head of the household in the same manner as those belonging to that household either by blood or by legal adoption. Descendants and legal adoptees could, and would properly address their Father as “ABBA,” a word corresponding to our “Daddy” or “Papa.” In the time of Christ, and the New Testament era, “ABBA” was commonly used in a child’s life, from infancy on, as an expression of warm, genuine affection and supreme confidence. Sadly, there is no perfect equivalent in our English language.

In Mark 14:36, Christ uses “Abba,” crying out to His Father in genuine affection and supreme confidence when declaring, “All things are possible for You; remove this cup from Me; yet not what I will, but what You will.” Therefore, the right to call God “Abba” (Father) is a special privilege afforded to only a few, those, to whom by relationship have been granted that right. That’s why Paul uses this very specific word and terminology in Romans 8:15 – “For you (true believers) have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we (can and are privileged to) cry out, ‘Abba! Father!’”

Further explanation of this concept is offered in Galatians 4:6-7 – “Because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son (Jesus Christ) into our hearts, crying, ‘Abba! Father!’” Therefore you are no longer a slave (or servant who cannot and should not address the Father), but a son; and if a son, then an heir (joint heir with all His other children and Jesus Christ) through God.

Christ offers additional reinforcement concerning our liberty and position when, immediately after His resurrection, He addresses Mary Magdalene in John 20:18 saying, “Go to My brethren and say to them, ‘I ascend to My Father and your Father, and My God and your God.’” Christ’s Father is my Father too — Christ’s God is my God too — What a deal! What a privilege, what an honor! A slave or servant lives under constant fear and alarm. But we live in freedom and confidence as His children. The spirit of adoption brings the assurance – because you were adopted (picked, chosen) – accompanied by feelings of affection, love, and confidence which as children, looking to any goodly father, not the servile, trembling spirit of slaves. Adoption requires taking and treating a stranger as one’s own child. It is applied to Christians because God treats us as His own, and receives us into relationship, though in the natural, we would be/feel as strangers and enemies in that relationship.

  1. By nature we have no position.
  2. God’s act towards us is one of kindness, of pure, sovereign love.
  3. Now we are under his protection and care.
  4. Now, we as His children, bear His image and character, and yield to Him through our obedience.
  5. Now we express toward Him the feelings due to a Father.
  6. Now we can call upon Him; addressing Him in the language of affection and endearing confidence, seeking His protection and assistance in all things.

Just think about it! – PF

VISION II

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Last week, I challenged every believer to recognize the need for and the power of “vision;” vision from God in their individual lives, family, and ministry; by reflecting on some principles revealed in the first few chapters of Nehemiah. His life was dynamically changed and impacted by his willingness to; 1) believe God, 2) embrace God’s vision, 3) actively participate in the vision, and 4) pass it on to God’s people. Nehemiah provides an excellent example for every believer as God entrusts him (as He does us) with many opportunities. His clarity of vision, commitment, and faith is directly linked to success —

“The God of heaven will give us success (after all, it’s His purpose and vision conveyed to His people for His glory and their blessing/benefit); therefore we His servants (God’s athletes, builders, stewards, soldiers, workmen) will arise (by faith – trust and obey) and build, but you (cynics and hecklers) have no portion, right, or memorial in Jerusalem.”

As with any true vision from God, Nehemiah faced opposition and attacks from the enemy. That’s true in our lives as well. If God is with you, and for you, you can usually count on someone or something rising-up against you, even though the enemy is powerless against the hand of our Lord! Nehemiah faced overt opposition numerous times in Chapters 4-6:14.

In Chapter 4, the initial attack comes from those on the outside, who openly ridicule the Jewish people, their abilities, craftsmanship, and even their God. Tobiah says, “What they are building – if a fox should jump/climb upon it, he will break their stone wall down.” I find it interesting that this cynic/heckler can make this statement without even evaluating the wall, its design or structural integrity! Nehemiah and God’s people simply cry out to God concerning this attack (vs. 4-5) and continue steadfast and immovable with their faith and trust in God – “So we built the wall and the whole wall was joined together to half its height, for the people had a mind to work!”

Next, the enemies of God’s people form an allegiance and threaten to launch a military campaign against Jerusalem which is intended as a distraction to ultimately stop the wall reconstruction project. Once again, God’s people “prayed” (vs9), however they were also compelled (by God’s Holy Spirit as he directed Nehemiah) to post guards and develop military strategies to effectively respond to an enemy attack (vs. 13-23). It’s interesting how forces which normally can’t agree on anything, unite together against a common enemy -– in this case the work of God.

Christ experienced the Pharisees, Sadducees, and other Jewish leaders (Sanhedrin & Chief Priests– who disagreed and constantly fought with each other over spiritual and political issues) coming together in unity, jointly conspiring to eliminate Jesus Christ, as well as Lazarus, whom He raised from the dead (John 11:45-12:11). As believers, we must recognize, and stand firm against, the “schemes (devices/wiles) of the devil” (Eph. 6:11) who is a thief and a liar. We must prepare and post our guards while continuing the work, being adequately equipped in the full armor of God!

The next difficulty faced by Nehemiah (Chapter 5) comes from within, as God’s people fail to live righteously and violate one another by refusing to honor the truths and values established in God’s Word. Satan’s obvious attempt is to stir up strife and divide the body. Many, many times, the enemy is given a foothold in an effective ministry or church, simply because God’s people fail to obey the Word in dealing with one another. This sin was a form of extortion, “Exacting usury each from his brother” (vs7). In verse 6 we learn that this injustice makes Nehemiah “very angry” and according to God’s wisdom and instruction he institutes complete economic reform which brings relief for God’s people.

Nehemiah faces three more onslaughts from the enemy in Chapter 6. The first is through compromise, when Sanballat and Geshem try to set up a meeting with Nehemiah in the “plain of Ono” to talk things over. I love Nehemiah’s response in verses 3-4 as he says O NO, “Why should the work (of God) stop” for me to come down and meet with you? Once again God’s Spirit is directing Nehemiah because they were planning to “do Him harm” (vs2). In verses 5-9 the enemy tries slander against Nehemiah, but his character is true and he trusts God to defend his name.

Next the enemy conspired to entrap Nehemiah (vs10-14) but once again, God’s Holy Spirit leads Nehemiah, providing discernment, and he remains above reproach. You may recall several attempts like this made against Christ in the Gospels. Nehemiah and God’s people find victory, triumph, and success – the wall is completed in 52 days (vs15) and the enemy was completely defeated (vs16)! This type of conquest requires faith, discipline, hard work, and commitment. But, without a clear vision, the project could have been delayed or even dismantled by the enemy’s attacks. Nehemiah continued steadfast, refusing to be sidetracked, and resisting every form of attack (“Resist the devil and he will flee”).

How often is the enemy successful not because we fall into some gross sin, but simply because we get sidetracked and fail to achieve the vision(s) and life purpose(s) God has entrusted to us? Can we trust and obey our Lord, Jesus Christ, believing He wants to accomplish His vision(s) and purpose(s) in us and through us, both personally and as a body, united together in the ministry of West Oaks Fellowship?

Just think about it. –Pastor Frank

STUFF

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

“STUFF” – an old French word, “estoffe” that derived its meaning from “stopfon,” which means “to stop up.” In English we see this understanding when stuff is used in the verb form, like cramming “stuff” into a closet, filling the trunk of one’s car, or jamming clothes into a closet or suitcase. Exactly how one feels after consuming too much lunch or supper!

Additionally, according to Webster’s New World Dictionary, “stuff” in our vocabulary speaks of material goods, like household items and personal belongings and/or the substances out of which things are produced or manufactured. In a general sense, unspecified items may also be referred to as “stuff.” I don’t know about you, but my world consists of (and seems to be filled with), lots of “stuff!”

Some “stuff” is worthless junk, while other is of significance and valuable, yet it’s all still called “stuff.” There’s good stuff and bad stuff, big stuff and small stuff, fun stuff and sad stuff, great stuff and petty stuff, excellent stuff, average stuff, and inferior stuff, strong stuff and weak stuff, important stuff and trivial stuff, beautiful stuff and ugly stuff, healthy stuff and some stuff that’s not so good for you. Some stuff is material and physical, while other stuff is physiological, emotional and spiritual — whatever the stuff, there’s plenty of it.

In Genesis 25:30, Esau (a godless person according to Hebrews 12:16) begs his brother Jacob

Please let me have a swallow of that red stuff (NASU) (translated pottage in KJV however the word does not appear in the Hebrew text or Greek Septuagint) there, for I am famished (worn out, weary). Therefore his name was called Edom (red).

By his own choice of immediate gratification and pleasure, Esau became a godless person, choosing to love and embrace the things (stuff; in this case food) of this world and his earthly life in exchange for the blessings of God, spiritual peace, and hope (confident expectation) for his future.

Esau gave up:

  1. His right to the priesthood – Ex. 22:29.
  2. A double portion of his father’s estate – Deut. 21:17.
  3. His role in the family – Gen. 27:29, 37; 49:3.
  4. His potential role in the Messianic promise/linage of first born sons.
  5. His rights of primogeniture (conveying special blessings upon his descendants – which were among the most noble, honorable, and spiritual in the ancient world).

Esau undervalued “God stuff” and overvalued “red stuff” which filled his belly and brought temporary satisfaction.

In John 6:27-28, Jesus issues a warning that might help us gain some understanding about “stuff,”

Do not work for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you, for on Him the Father, God, has set His seal.

Nearly everyone can recall the Parable Of The Sower And Soils in Mark 4:18-19 where the good seed of God is sown among thorns, “but the worries of the world (stuff), and the deceitfulness of riches (stuff), and the desires for other things (stuff) enter in and choke” out God’s Word/Truth. Instead of trading the “stuff” of God for the “stuff” of this world, have you ever considered doing the exact opposite? May we, as believers in Christ, be found laying down the “stuff” of this world in order to gain “God stuff!” II Peter 1:8 says “For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

I pray all our “stuff” becomes useful and fruitful! Just think about it. — Pastor Frank

DISCERNMENT

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

Are you operating in biblical discernment, or are you allowing various fears from multiple sources to direct your daily life?  In the midst of our current situation with COVID-19, Floyd’s unfathomable murder, legal protests, and illegal rioting and vandalism, I’m always shocked to learn how many believers allow themselves to be entrapped by penalizing and paralyzing fear, rather than actively partnering with divinely authorized, supernatural power (God’s Holy Spirit).

2 Corinthians 10:3-6 offers very clear and precise instruction for Christ’s faithful:

“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ, and we are ready to punish all disobedience, whenever your obedience is complete.”

1 Corinthians 12:7 declares that

“to each one (individual, faithful followers of Jesus Christ) is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.”

One of those manifestations (displays of our Lord’s presence and power through the indwelling of God’s Holy Spirit) being “the distinguishing of spirits” from 1 Corinthians 12:10. This is an essential component of a successful spiritual, yet fearless life of faith in Christ Jesus.

The Greek word, diakrisis, used in the biblical text stated above, literally means discerning, making a judicial estimation, distinction and/or determination.   Therefore, according to the context, a believer is given this manifestation for their own good or that of Christ’s Body/His Church. According to 1 Corinthians 12:11 (same context), “one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually just as He wills.”

At this point, it’s really important that one comes to understand the manifestation of “distinguishing” or “discernment of spirits.” The need for this manifestation is obvious in our world and within the life of each and every believer. Who doesn’t need to have spiritual insight into what’s actually going on in the realm of the unseen — the spirit world? We all experience individuals or certain entities (government, religious organization, political, business, etc.) behaving in certain questionable ways (immoral, unethical, etc.).  What are the forces and/or powers motivating their actions?  Are they those of angelic beings interfering in the affairs of humanity, are they evil, demonic spirits attempting to control a situation, spirits of our world system directly challenging the Truth of God, and/or carnal fleshly motivations empowered by human desires/lusts (strong passions) — or the  workings of God’s Holy Spirit? 

Fear easily slips into one’s mind and heart when this type of question and confusion prevails. Have we become so accustomed to applying human reasoning to a situation or circumstance (just like the unredeemed in our world, who do not have the mind of Christ) that we are actually, perhaps even unknowingly, embracing lies and concepts completely foreign to the Truth of God’s Word and the ways of our Lord?  

How did Peter know (properly discern) what was actually going on with Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5:1-10? Their sin certainly wasn’t holding back some of the funds from the sale of property, but in reality, pretending to give a sacrificial offering of the whole amount that had been gained through the real estate transaction. Ananias was under no biblical compulsion or mandate to give all! (The common sharing that occurred within the early Jerusalem church was not absolute communism, but purely voluntary. — See Acts 5:4) Falsehood and total hypocrisy (“lying to God’s Holy Spirit” – See Acts 5:3), rather than greed, were the sins for which each of them was severely punished.

Peter experienced the manifestation of spiritual discernment! Nothing of a natural, human process would have revealed this Truth without some investigation!  Peter supernaturally saw the unseen, a spiritual realm that he could have never known unless God’s Holy Spirit provided the miraculous manifestation of discernment (the distinguishing of spirits)! 

1 John 4:1 reminds us

“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.”

This means one must ask God for His help, seeking His perspective (DVP – divine viewpoint) on all of life’s issues! What are the things He is planning/desiring?  Then ask, how do I fit in?  What is it You’re asking of me — Your faithful, loyal servant?

Beloved, we have incredible opportunities to partner with the Lord, God Almighty Himself!  How then shall we live?                            

His & Yours, PF