Tag: life

LIFE

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

Acts 17:24-29 – “The God who made the world and all things in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands; nor is He served by human hands, as though He needed anything, since He Himself gives to all people life and breath and all things; and He made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their habitation, that they would seek God, if perhaps they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us; for in Him we live and move and exist (are, have our being), as even some of your own poets have said, ‘For we also are His children.’”

Perhaps, in reality, one doesn’t actually see or fully understand things as they are; instead one most likely sees and understands them from the somewhat skewed perspective of either fallen or redeemed humanity. In actuality, sometimes sad to say, the way one views life (and in particular their own life) actually shapes / forms one’s own existence! At that crossroad, the way one defines “life” serves to determine one’s own destiny. Beliefs will influence how one invests their time, money, skills / talents, and even, as a believer in Christ Jesus and His Word, the intrinsic value of worship, fellowship, study, prayer, and relationships!

Individuals often outwardly express their beliefs through clothes, jewelry, cars, hairstyles, bumper stickers, social media connections, tattoos, sports / hobby interests, and social circles. These somewhat unspoken influences make an impact and bring about effects (positive or negative) in life much more than one may realize or even understand. Too often they actually serve to determine expectations, moral / ethical values, spirituality, relationships, goals, and of course priorities. If life is a party, the primary value in life will be having fun. If life is in itself a battle or a game, winning will be of highest importance! However, If life on earth is viewed as a pilgrim, and one is simply passing through, the Lord’s view, God’s divine perspective, about everything becomes essential!

The Scripture (above) declares, “He Himself gives to all people life and breath and all things!” If life is from the Lord, (the Lord God formed man … and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being. From Genesis 2:7-8) then the perhaps simplified, but absolutely and undeniably the best way to view life is from His perspective! If then, “In Him we live and move and have our existence (being),” what other view should be effectively applicable?  

Is life a test? Is life something entrusted to humanity? Is life a race? Is life as we know it a temporary assignment?

Study the TRUTH and receive the ANSWERS!

James 1:12, Hebrews 11:6, Jude 1:3

Jeremiah 1:5, Psalm 139:14, Romans 14:7-9

Hebrews 12:1, 1 Corinthians 9:24

Psalm 39:4-5, James 4:14, Hebrews 13:14, Philippians 3:20

This is my constant prayer for those that participate in the ministries of West Oaks Fellowship, “May the Word of God / Christ richly dwell within each of you /us!”

– taken from Colossians 3:16

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

Pastor Frank 

APOCALYPSE

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

Obviously if you’re reading Fusion, January 2013, the heretical prophesies of the Mayan calendars (see the WOF web site for article in 2010 on the movie 2012) and other ancient sacrileges such as the writings of so-called prophets like Montanus and his prophetesses (Prisca and Maximilla), St Malachy, Saint Columba (aka Columbkille), Paracelsus, and Nostradamus are proven bogus and counterfeit. In addition, we have all seen and heard the “doomsday” predictions that inevitably surround international crises and other notable events such as national tragedies, catastrophes, political and/or governmental upheavals etc.

Remember the millennial-bug scare of 2000, which gave good fodder for many apocalypse and doomsday preppers?  Who can forget doomsday cults, such as the People’s Temple, David Koresh, and the Heaven’s Gate Community? Such outlandish views, as well as incessant, inevitably incorrect predictions about the future cause many to scoff at any talk of future world-wide cataclysm, devastation, and /or regional disasters.   

As a result, many in our world classify those who address these issues biblically in the same camp as other “stranger than fiction” individuals and conspiracy theorists. Surprisingly, some “bible-believing” Christians react regimentally, even vehemently opposing discussions and biblical studies on topics related to humanity’s future.  In reality there will be tribulation, unquestionably a great tribulation in which wrath consumes the earth, and all of its people/nations face the great and terrible day of our Lord.  

Sometimes our modern day media gets on board as well, presenting documentaries with “scholars” and “specialists” from many different perspectives and disciplines, which only serve to erode the credibility and authority of our biblical narative and distinctively Christian world-view.  Thus, popular misconceptions arise, distorting the true Christian viewpoint of escatology (study of end times – literally “things to come”) and any apocalypse. Undeniably, ignorance, continuous confusion, and perpetual misunderstandings of Christ’s return and its purpose prevail.  Wonder whose work that is?    

The word “apocalypse” (Ancient Greek: ἀποκάλυψις apocálypsis, from ἀπό and καλύπτω meaning ‘un-covering’), translates literally from Greek into English as disclosure of knowledge, a revealing (possibly of something hidden), a lifting of the veil, or a revelation … as in the Revelation of Jesus Christ to the Apostle John in what we biblically refer to as the book of Revelation.

Your reading of this publication is evidence, once again, that our God, the one and only true God, reigns eternally as the sovereign and supreme authority over all humanity and His glorious handiwork (Creation … all that’s seen and unseen)!  The fact that all these soothsaying prophets missed the apocalypse, or the “end of the world,” simply proves the fallacy and error of their technique.  God’s true prophets are never wrong, they never miss!  In fact, as you’ve heard me say before, while close counts in the games of horseshoes or washers, as well as in warfare with hand-grenades, mortars, and atomic bombs, close certainly doesn’t score anything in futuristic prophecy, apocalyptic considerations, or eschatology.  Only direct hits are credited with accuracy and success. 

Therefore, why would any consideration be given to the mystical, demonically-inspired predictions of a pagan culture’s calendar, or the bizarre ramblings and writings of mediums, shamanists, and spiritualists who claim to have some special gifting and unique, obscure understanding or revelation. Only the inerrant (without error in the original form/manuscript) scriptures declare the things to come before they happen — not as some complex formula with multiple variables that might or might not be fulfilled!  No, exact, direct hits are the only writings and messages worthy of one’s consideration … and consequently only a supreme being that knows the end at the beginning, the outcome before the inception, can be totally and inexplicably infallible. 

Therefore, as true believers, when considering “things to come” and the future apocalypse, let us rest assured that what God has said will surely be.  We are never to be tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine or the contemporary ideas that so easily sweep through the non-discerning, doctrinally compromised modern church, society, philosophy, or culture.  Our faith and future must rest extraordinarily in Christ Jesus and His complete revelation of apocalyptic events and “things to come.”  Any and all other sources will be proven inaccurate and fallible — just like the erroneous Mayan calendar stands today!

There will come a time when each of us is called upon to express our belief/faith in an apocalyptic mode. Done properly, with biblical authority and inspiration of God’s Holy Spirit, it becomes a powerful witness to both believer and unbeliever alike.  Unquestionably our world-view includes an end … the Ancient of Days enthroned as King of Kings and Lord of Lords.  This is not an expression of our own self-importance and arrogance, but a genuine desire for the world to know Christ’s forgiveness, the power of His victorious resurrection, and His abundant life, now and forever!  To have this capability, as empowered by God to change/reach our world, and yet retreat to non-apocalyptic mode because of all the heretical nonsense, denies our Lord’s ability to redeem even the darkest history and squanders a precious treasure. Undoubtedly, Christ asks and prepares His people to speak clearly in every opportunity!

— His & Yours by GRACE, 

Pastor Frank

MOTHER

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Think about it.   — Pastor Frank      

MOHAMMED V JESUS

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Mohammed was the prophet of war;

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

Mohammed’s disciples killed for the faith;

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

Mohammed promoted persecution against the “infidels”;          

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

Mohammed was the taker of life;

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

Mohammed and his fellow warriors murdered thousands;

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

Mohammed practiced FORCE;

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

Mohammed was a WARRIOR;

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

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

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

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

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

Mohammed preached “Death to the infidels!”;

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

Mohammed declared a holy war (Jihad) against infidels;

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

Mohammed constrained people by conquest;

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mohammed called upon his servants to fight;

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mohammed claimed that there was but one God, Allah;

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

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

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

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

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

Do it!                                                          His & Yours, Pastor Frank

SEEKING THE LIVING AMONG THE DEAD

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Why do you seek the living among the dead?

That is the question asked of the women in Luke 24:5 as they stood before the borrowed tomb (belonging to Joseph of Arimathea) where the body of Christ had been placed after His public execution. They knew Jesus was dead, that was indisputable.  Yes, their hearts were tattered — their souls devastated by the tragic events of the past few days, and now they came to the place were His body had been laid … behind a wax-sealed rolling stone … guarded by Roman centurions. 

They came to honor their teacher and friend, Jesus Christ, by finishing the appropriate and customary preparation so His body could be permanently interred.  A dead Jesus, a cold shredded corpse was all they hoped for and expected to find.  In reality, they came seeking the dead in the place of the dead (among the dead, as in a cemetery) while bringing along all the supplies and spices needed to complete their arduous and undeniably emotional task.  Surely they weren’t looking for, or even possessing an ounce of hope for discovering anything different. 

According to the scripture (Luke 24:2-3), when they arrived, the tomb was open (obviously not for Christ to escape, but for His faithful followers to observe/witness), and the body of Jesus Christ somehow missing.  Nonetheless, for whatever reason, the ladies, “Mary Magdalene and Joanna and Mary the mother of James; also the other women” (Luke 24:10) still don’t get it!  It’s interesting for us to note that even His enemies, while in total disbelief, fully understood and acknowledged Christ’s well-known teachings and impassioned declarations … that death and the grave could not – in fact – would not be able hold Him! (‎Matthew 16:21; 17:9,23; 20:19; 26:32; 27:63; 28:6, Mark 8:31; 9:9,31; 10:34; 14:28, Luke 9:22; 18:33; 24:7,46, etc.) 

Every believer should carefully note how easy it was to forget the powerful, plentiful, and inexhaustible promises of our Lord.  In this case, it took the frightful appearance of two men in “dazzling clothing,” to successfully jog our sisters’ memories as the men started accurately proclaiming Christ’s exact teachings concerning His own death and victorious resurrection.  It seems the disciples had the same mental block and spiritual lapse according to Luke 24:11 where the testimony of these women was considered “nonsense” and “they would not believe them.”

What’s the problem/issue?  One might wonder, “How are the words of Jesus Christ so easily forgotten, quickly ignored, or discounted by His followers?”  At least, according to the biblical text (Luke 24:12), Peter gets up, runs to Christ’s tomb — stoops down — looks in, and sees the linen wrappings that were once upon the body of Jesus.  What was He expecting?  What does He find/witness/observe?  NO DEAD JESUS — NO CORPSE OF CHRIST’S SHREADED FLESH, but even then there is no clear statement or testimony of faith as the disciple, “went away to his home, marveling at what had happened.”

Perhaps as we approach Resurrection Sunday, we should ponder the question of how or why the words of Jesus are so easily forgotten, misunderstood, or discounted in our own everyday lives.  The truth of life in Christ Jesus, including all His powerful, plentiful, and inexhaustible promises, is that life can never be found among the dead … in/from unbelievers … in/from relationships with those that seek after all the world has to offer … in/from those that attempt to join themselves to the world … in/from a convenient faith in Christ, nor in/from the things of world themselves.  Even if one has the opportunity to pursue and gain everything our world offers, will it actually bring life?  Mark 8:36 asks this question:

For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul?

Life is not found from the world, nor is it found in the dead fleshly works of religious law, which in essence is lifeless legalism.  Brothers and sisters, why would one seek to find anything living among the dead?  Life abundant (John 10:10) is only found, and is only available, in and through the living words of our living, risen Savior, Jesus Christ!

Jesus said,

It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing; the words that I have spoken to you are spirit and are life.  

John 6:63

Therefore, will we, as Christ’s followers, seek to find the living among the dead, or seek and turn to the living from the dead/world to find life, life abundant?

Here’s my prayer for all of us at WOF throughout the next few months:

1)      If one does not know the words of Christ, come and learn, become a student of His Word, allowing us, in cooperation with His Holy Spirit, to teach you the words of life.

2)     If one already knows His Word, let us help you apply it to your daily life, making it a truly “Living Word” for your spiritual journey and sojourn on earth. (See Hebrews 4:12)

3)    May we, His people/church, never become forgetful, allowing His words to be void. Instead let them be the very backbone and essence of the faith-based lives we breathe with our eyes fixed upon Jesus Christ!

So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.  

Romans 10:17

Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you!  

Colossians 3:16

For this reason we also constantly thank God that when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but for what it really is, the word of God, which also performs its work in you who believe.     

I Thessalonians 2:13-14

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

Pastor Frank

ABUNDANT

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

Psalm 86:5

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

    Isaiah 63:7

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Proverbs 15:16

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

Proverbs 16:8

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

II Corinthians 9:8

His & Yours, PF

I AM

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

“I AM” Statement 1:

In John 6:35, Jesus declared:

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

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

“I AM” Statement 2:

In John 8:12, Jesus boldly states:

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

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

“I AM” Statement 3:

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

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

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

“I AM” Statement 4:

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

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

“I AM” Statement 5:

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

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

“I AM” Statement 6:

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

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

“I AM” Statement 7:

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

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

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

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

BETTER

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

So, we ask this question, “Will 2022 be better than 2021?”

The answer lies in one’s definition of “better” and how much one allows our distressed world to impact that definition. 

Psalm 63:3-4 reminds us …

Because Your loving kindness is better than life, my lips will praise You. So I will bless You as long as I live; I will lift up my hands in Your name.

The Hebrew word, “towb” is an adjective (rarely used in the O. T. language) which denotes a clarification or serves as a modifier to another word.  In this usage, “better” implies delightfully good in every sense!  Therefore, in essence and context, our Lord’s lovingkindness is better than life itself! 

In this case, King David feasted upon the spiritual delicacies of his relationship with the Lord, rather than any material objects or anything this world offered/afforded him. This human found extreme satisfaction in simply praising God! It brought great joy and abiding comfort to his own soul. He praised God for His “lovingkindness” (Hebrew – checed; meaning His steadfast love; grace; mercy; faithfulness; goodness; and devotion) which according to Psalm 63:1, David thought more of than life-sustaining water! Wow, what an implausible perspective – a genuine, as well as authentic, understanding of that which actually makes life a blessing – and well worth the living. 

Then we have the marvelous revelation of Psalm 118:8-9 …

It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man (an individual, human being, mankind). It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in princes (any form of governmental authority or power).

It is far wiser, more comfortable, and safer — in fact, there is more reason to trust in the Lord than anything — if one is devoted to His guidance and governing with an entire dependence upon God’s wisdom, power, goodness and grace.

True confidence in one’s Lord, if it’s Christ alone, works to make a human believer invincible and fearless. Consider the courage of Moses, Daniel, the three Hebrew young men, Nehemiah, and the statement of the apostle Paul to the Elders at Ephesus in Acts 20:24 concerning his own unknown future as he traveled to Jerusalem.

But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God.

In the account given in Hebrews 10:32-36, the author speaks to believers who have suffered for Christ’s sake, declaring that they all have a “better possession and a lasting one” than that of the properties they lost to seizure.  Then they are reminded in the midst of their suffering to, “not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised.”

Paul has a somewhat confusing outlook about “better” — at least from a human viewpoint.

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; yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sake.

So, will 2022 be a better year?  

Is the Lord’s lovingkindness better than life?

Is the Lord truly one’s refuge, better than that of any human or institution?

Is the possession of Christ’s promises better than any other possession?

For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand outside. I would rather stand at the threshold of the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness. For the Lord God is a sun and shield; The Lord gives grace and glory; No good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly. O Lord of hosts, how blessed is the man who trusts in You!

Psalm 84:10-12

I’m sincerely and steadfastly praying for you, your family, and our entire ministry at WOF, that 2022 will be a better year as we fully embrace His promises, recognizing that His lovingkindness is better than life itself, find our refuge in Him, and dwell in His courts. -PF   

GROW

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

“Like newborn babies, long for the pure (spiritual) milk of the Word, so that by it you may GROW (up) in respect to (your) salvation.”

I Peter 2:2

God’s plan for all believers is growth! If that’s the case, then one must ask, what causes or stimulates this growth? In plant life, growth occurs through proper exposure to the sun, appropriate quantities of water and fertilizer, protection from plant enemies like bugs, fungi, etc., and occasional pruning.

Human physical growth, in much the same manner, demands suitable nourishment as well as a safe/protected environment. Spiritually, the same concepts hold true! This verse clearly demonstrates that the intake of God’s Word is what nurtures our spiritual development and Christian maturity.

Ephesians 4:15 (from where we derive our church’s slogan, “Sharing The Truth In Love”) reminds believers to speak the truth in love and “to grow-up in all aspects” of Christianity. This growth/maturity is achieved by craving – just as a new baby intensely yearns for the milk of mother’s breast – the spiritual food that flows from God’s Word into your mind/soul/spirit! The primary Greek verb used here, “auzano” or “auxanoo,” means to increase. Just as a healthy tree continues to increase throughout all of its life, continually adding dimensions of its circumference, the depth and strength of its roots, and its height, the work of God is increased, becoming greater and greater, stronger and stronger!

As we read on in I Peter 2:4-6, we find a transition, our spiritual transformation into “living (lively) stones,” “rejected by men, but choice/precious in the sight of God.” Believers are built up in their growth and maturity as a “spiritual house for a holy priesthood” in order “to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ!” This transformation occurs as that fresh, pure (holy) spiritual milk of God’s Word occupies our minds and hearts, growing us up in our salvation and strengthening us to become like the tree mentioned in Psalm 1:2. This tree (representing an individual) is big, strong, healthy, and deeply rooted in the stream of God’s living water. This water is His Word and Holy Spirit which are providing proper nourishment, causing the tree to bear and continually produce, for picking and distribution, a high good quality fruit. Psalm 1:3 tells us that this tree’s leaf does not wither (grow weary in doing good i.e. producing fruit – Gal. 6:9, II Thess. 3:13); and whatever this particular, spiritually strong, mature tree (individual life) engages in is success/prosperous in God’s economy/viewpoint.

Now to the more difficult matter. . . What kind of tree are you? A little twig bent over by the smallest breeze, struggling for survival, or a maturing, stately, majestic fruit producing tree? The choice seems to be 100% ours with the end result depending on our intake/consumption of God’s pure Word. Certainly an intake of once or twice a week from the preacher can’t be enough to make you the righteous man/woman who will flourish like the palm tree, GROW like a cedar in Lebanon, be planted in the house of the LORD, flourish in the courts of our God, still yield fruit in old age, always be full of sap, and very green! (–From Psalm 92:12-14)

Just think about it! Hope to see you & yours this Sunday. — Pastor Frank