Tag: mark

“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

CHOICES

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

As we enter this Advent season, I find myself reflecting on a simple yet profound truth: Christmas doesn’t just happen — we choose how we will celebrate it. The choices each of us make in these upcoming weeks will reveal exactly what one truly treasures. As a child growing up, even though raised in a faithful Christian home, I never really thought about anything other than the presents I’d receive. Certainly, there was always the shared understanding of Christ’s birth, but it seems we always chose the exact same patterns year after year.

I often wonder if you’ve also felt the strange, but obvious tension that builds starting about Thanksgiving and invading December. The world around us accelerates into a frenzy of activity: shopping lists grow longer, social calendars fill to overflowing, decorations seem to demand serious attention, and everywhere we may turn, someone is trying to sell a neat experience, a distinct product, or some special feeling(s).

Meanwhile, at the heart of it all, a quiet voice whispers the most revolutionary announcement in human history: “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” (See John 1:14)

The question before each of us is not whether we will be busy this Christmas season — we will be! However, the question that should be asked is: What will all our busyness actually mean or serve?

For sure, I’m not suggesting that we abandon all our celebrations or family traditions. There is most likely nothing inherently wrong with festive meals, thoughtful gifts, or beautifully decorated homes. But I am asking us to examine our hearts and even our motives this Christmas season.

When we crawl into bed, most likely exhausted on the night of December 25, will we have encountered Christ our Lord, or merely survived another holiday? Will we have worshiped the Savior, or simply participated in cultural rituals that attempt to bear His Holy Name?

Consider how easily our focus shifts. We plan elaborate meals but neglect the very Bread of Life. We stress over finding the perfect gifts while forgetting that God gave us the best Gift ever given, never before offered, or even deserved! Some of our homes are filled with guests, friends, family and glitter, but little room left for the One whose visit to earth began by being laid in a very humble feed trough.

We sing carols about His birth but rarely pause to marvel at this staggering reality: the Creator of the entire universe entered His creation as an infant. The One who declared light to be light came as the true light to shine in a world of darkness! (See Genesis 1:3, Isaiah 9:2, John 1:4, 9)

This Christmas, each and every one of us will make choices – perhaps even deliberate, counter-cultural choices. As believers, will we choose to create space for silence and reflection in a season that demands noise and activity? We must choose to prioritize worship and spiritual gatherings — even when family obligations, traditions, and travel plans actively compete for our time. Will believers choose to serve others as Christ did (See Mark 10:45), actively remembering the example of Jesus Himself? Will we choose to engage in conversation about the Lord’s incarnation, not just enthusiastically sharing about our special holiday plans?

These choices may, most likely will, cost us something. They may even mean disappointing others’ expectations. It may require us to say “no” to good things in order to say “yes” to better things. Perhaps we will be judged as less festive by our world’s standards, or unenthusiastic about Christmas trees, decorations, and lights or the season’s overplayed pop songs.

Here is what I know: the Messiah Who came to us through a miraculous, one-of-a-kind birth still shows up for us today—in His Word, through the presence of His Holy Spirit, in the gatherings and fellowship of His people, and in quieter moments of reflection and meditation when we turn our hearts, thoughts, and activities toward Him. He is not forcing us to draw near – no, He is simply offering Himself as the primary focus! After all, it is CHRISTMAS, and He is undoubtedly worthy of our wholehearted, undistracted devotion and sacrificial praise.

Therefore, my fellow, faithful servants of Jesus Christ, make some intentional choices! Choose Christ over the crazy chaos. Choose worship over senseless worry. Choose the eternal over the temporal. Choose to celebrate the first coming of our Savior and King in the sincere reverence of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love that has been so graciously and lavishly poured out upon us! (See Ephesians 1:7-8)

The world will have its Christmas. Let us have ours — centered on the One who was, and is, and is to come!

Please consider these words, perhaps some implementation, and have a great Christmas!

-PF

ABOMINATION

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

This biblical word, which occurs at least 170 times in the scriptures, is not familiar to many New Testament believers, primarily because it is mainly associated with the event known as “the abomination of desolation” during the last days tribulation period (Daniel 11:31, Matthew 24:15, Mark 13:14). However, it has substantial and significant use for those who desire to more fully understand the very nature of our God and our Savior, Christ Jesus.

The dictionary definition of “abomination,” which is typically a noun, reads, “something that causes disgust or hatred,” and was common terminology during the 1800s. Biblically speaking, “abomination” is a powerful term, generally referring to something that is absolutely and unequivocally detestable, and / or profoundly contrary to God’s Holiness. This encompasses willfully ignoring His instructions, participating in idolatry, improper worship, acts of immorality, unethical behavior, and dishonesty. Spiritually and fundamentally “abomination” refers to any practice or attitude that distances individuals from God’s desired purposes and plans, which includes both His Truth and His Love, accompanied by His Holiness, Righteousness and Justice.

There are six things which the Lord hates, yes, seven which are an abomination (Hebrew – ‎tow`ebah; repulsive, even dangerous and destructive, abhorrent) to Him: 1) haughty eyes, 2) a lying tongue, 3) and hands that shed innocent blood, 4) a heart that devises wicked plans, 5) feet that run rapidly to evil, 6) a false witness who utters lies, 7) and one who spreads strife among brothers.    

Proverbs 6:16-19

Be assured, all 7 fall into the same category of being an “abomination” to our Lord, and if that’s the case exactly where do we stand?

HAUGHTY EYES – displaying a proud look, being unkind and irreverent toward others!  See Psalm 101:5, Proverbs 21:4, 30:13

A LYING TONGUE – speaking falsehood, which implies a wrong motive. Vanity, improper ambition, and even cowardice serve as the generators and patrons of lies. A pure heart has no motive for falsehood; however, sadly, there exist social pressures that work to loosen the mind and tongue… such as expectations, and the somewhat confused human need for acceptance and approval! 

See Psalm 31:18, 120:2, Proverbs 12:22, Ephesians 4:25

HANDS THAT SHED INNOCENT BLOOD – heartless cruelty. A lack of understanding for God’s created creatures … inflicting needless pain, incivility, and death upon any human, as well as other life forms!

See Isaiah 1:15, 59:7, Proverbs 28:17, Exodus 20:13

A HEART THAT DEVISES WICKED PLANS – this is vicious scheming. This is birthed from pagan concepts and wicked thoughts / imaginations. These individuals are continuously inventing some form of evil behavior, usually with the intent of damaging others, for satisfying some demented dream, or to fulfill some delusional pleasures! See Genesis 6:5, Proverbs 24:2

FEET THAT RUN RAPIDLY TO EVIL – an eagerness to participate in mischievous sinful / wicked activities / behavior. These have an unrestrained passion / vigilance and a lust to participate in questionable, improper and / or immoral activities.

See Proverbs 1:15-16, Isaiah 59:7, Romans 3:10-18

A FALSE WITNESS WHO UTTERS LIES – a slanderer. Socially attempting to destroy another’s reputation, credibility, or successful good / positive achievements. This ungodly behavior may be motivated by jealousy, a lack of purpose or acceptance, poor training, and / or a desire for some type of social recognition!                                                                                                            

See Proverbs 12:17-18, 19:5, 19:9, 21:28, Matthew 15:19

ONE WHO SPREADS STRIFE (sows discord) AMONG BROTHERS – here lies wicked, evil intentions. Someone who intentionally works to damage, disrupt, destroy, and / or sever relationships, friendships, and / or even quality organizations (like Christ’s True / Believing Church)!

See Proverbs 6:14-15, 16:28, 22:10, 26:20, 2 Timothy 2:23, James 3:6, 14-16

All of these things are an “abomination” to God, who desires exactly the opposite for His people . . . wanting harmony, peace, unity, love and truth to prevail among those of the kingdom even while stationed in this world. The moral hideousness of the world is obvious where these seven evils abound. However, the righteousness and holiness of our Lord clearly emerges when one considers His displeasure / hatred for these things which are 100% foreign to the nature and character of the ONE! TRUE! LIVING GOD! 

While we live in a world set on “abomination,” it is not our responsibility to rid the world of these evils except through the spreading of the Gospel. Therefore, we should individually and corporately, as Christ’s Church body, consider these behaviors totally, unquestionably, and absolutely reprehensible – never to be found or tolerated among us!

“For the devious are an abomination to the Lord; But He is intimate with the upright. The curse of the Lord is on the house of the wicked, but He blesses the dwelling of the righteous.”

Proverbs 3:32-33

Meditate on His Word, day and night and you’ll find an unbelievable escape and freedom from the mindset of those who are perishing. (see 1 Corinthians 1:18-19)

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

Pastor Frank

RIGHTEOUS LIVING -V- LEGALISM

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

If one knows me at all, it’s pretty clear that I’m anti-legalism and that I uphold the concepts of GRACE, as well as living by FAITH, as the true essentials for abundant, successful Christian living.

I’ve held this theological position since I was a very young man in ministry, due to my study of scriptures, godly men that I considered my mentors, and my experiences within the framework of western religion / churchanity, as well as with genuine Christ followers.

“I do not nullify the grace of God, for if righteousness comes through the Law, then Christ died needlessly.”

Galatians 2:21

For if a law had been given which was able to impart life, then righteousness would indeed have been based on law. But the Scripture has shut up everyone under sin, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe.

Galatians 3:21-22

Here’s why I stand so decisively and resolute:

  1. Legalism promotes unbiblical standards, leading individuals to self-ordained, self-recognized convictions, self-authorized permission, as well as personal mandates that may even be imposed on others!
  2. Legalism is performance based, promoting and even authorizing self-righteous attitudes and the ungodly, extremely biased judgment of others!
  3. Legalism creates, and ultimately embraces division!
  4. Legalism downgrades and actually works to devalue Jesus Christ and His preeminence, His righteousness, His victory over sin / death, and His sufficiency for all genuine believers!

These are matters which have, to be sure, the appearance of wisdom in self-made religion and self-abasement and severe treatment of the body, but are of no value against fleshly indulgence.

Colossians 2:23

As our current teaching series, “Complete In Jesus Christ” (Sunday AM and Wednesday PM), is so plainly revealing . . . legalism is a hazardous and treacherous system as the Lord Himself warned in Mark 7:9.

He was also saying to them, “You are experts at setting aside the commandment of God in order to keep your tradition.”

Any type of religious legalism, which is appealing to humanity’s fleshly nature, can be quite attractive. However, in it the Lord’s sheep are hurt (spiritually, mentally and emotionally damaged) and manipulated, as the redeeming, life-giving, good news of Christ’s Gospel is veiled, Jesus Christ is marginalized, and human efforts, along with the philosophies of our world with practices birthed in paganism, become exalted

See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Christ. For in Him all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form, and in Him you have been made complete, and He is the head over all rule and authority; and in Him you were also circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, in the removal of the body of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ; having been buried with Him in baptism, in which you were also raised up with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead. When you were dead in your transgressions and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He made you alive together with Him, having forgiven us all our transgressions, having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against us, which was hostile to us; and He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross. When He had disarmed the rulers and authorities, He made a public display of them, having triumphed over them through Him.

Colossians 2:8-15

Perhaps, even right now, as you read this article, please stop for a moment, bow before our gracious and glorious Lord, join my life pursuit, making the TRUTH of the following passage a life-long purpose / intent, which you can mentally, emotionally, and spiritually firmly cling to forever! 

“For if I rebuild what I have once destroyed, I prove myself to be a transgressor. “For through the Law I died to the Law, so that I might live to God. “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the  flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.  “I do not nullify the grace of God,  for if righteousness comes through the Law, then Christ died needlessly.”

Galatians 2:18-21

How else then shall we live?

His & 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

THE KING

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

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

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

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

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

Matthew 4:10-11

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(See Matthew 11:28-29)

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

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

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

Can one have the Kingdom without it’s King?

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

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

His & Yours, PF

JOINED

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Almost everyone is familiar with the phrase, “what God has joined together, let no man (one) separate (put asunder).”   This statement of Christ is found in Matthew 19:6 and Mark 10:9 as He expounds on the concept of monogamous marriage relationships and its significance for humanity.  A Greek word of similar meaning, “proskollao,” also appears in that same context, usually translated in English as “cleave to” or “cleaving to” one’s spouse as in Matthew 19:5, Mark 10:7, and Ephesians 5:31. “Proskollao” is the strengthened form of the word, “kollao” which expresses the idea of something being glued or cemented together, making “proskollao” even a stronger joining, perhaps like glue versus superglue.

Who doesn’t remember those over-the-top KRAZYGLUE commercials where a construction worker is holding on to his hardhat which is supposedly inseparably attached to a metal beam with the superbly powerful grip of their product. Certainly we all know it’s a “crazy” demonstration, but it definitely communicates the conceptual meaning of this biblically significant word.   

In Romans 12:9, believers are encouraged to “cling” or in a more literal translation, “be joined to” that which is good!  Obviously it’s appreciably better to be identified with, and joined (cemented or glued) to that which is called “good” (as defined by the Lord) than anything of lesser value.  According to 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22, Christ’s faithful “examine everything carefully,” holding “fast to that which is good,” while intentionally, with commitment and determination, abstaining “from every form of evil” (again, using the Lord’s definition of evil).

As members of Christ’s body (His church) in Ephesians 2:12, we are uniquely joined and precisely fitted together into our Lord’s “Holy Temple.”  Ephesians 4:16 further expands on this useful illustration stating that the whole body is “fitted and held together by what every joint supplies, according to the proper working of each individual part.”  In other words, we are perfectly joined by the Lord so that each individual (part/member) supplies (brings to the table) exactly that which is needed in/by His church so Christ’s body functions properly, fully, efficiently, and effectively!  

After considering all these examples of “join” or “joined,” there remains one passage in 1 Corinthians 6:16-17 that demands our sincere and solemn consideration. “Do you not know that the one who joins himself to a prostitute is one body with her?  For He says, ‘THE TWO SHALL BECOME ONE FLESH.’  But the one who joins himself to the Lord is one spirit with Him.”  Each individual determines to whom or what they are joined … either to Christ Jesus, becoming “one spirit with Him,” or to the enchanting enticements of this world and all of its willful suppressions!    (Romans 1:18-19, “who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them.”)  To Whom or what shall we/you be joined?            

— Pastor Frank       

WINTER

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When you think of winter, what do you think of?  In the south, not many of us really think about a change of lifestyle and a significant impact on our daily routine and activities as some farther north might experience.  A white Christmas is generally an unlikely dream, as are sleigh rides or sledding, snowball fights, and making snow angels or snowmen.  While I do have pictures of our church covered in snow, as well as our home, those are definitely out of the ordinary!  Nonetheless, on the fourth day of creation (Genesis 1:14-15) one learns that God planned the seasons on earth and placed the stars in the heavens so humanity would know and understand times and seasons.  Genesis 8:22 clearly reveals the Lord’s post-diluvian purposes, “While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease,” along with His covenant promise (Genesis 9:8-17) of His “bow in the cloud!” Even the psalmist is moved to expressions of praise when considering God’s attributes of supremacy and sovereignty as revealed through His handiwork:

Yours is the day, Yours also is the night;

You have prepared the light and the sun.

You have established all the boundaries of the earth;

You have made summer and winter.

–Psalms 74:16-17

While incontestably there are specific reasons (ultimately being benefits for humanity and creation) for all of God’s design, it seems somewhat awkward from a merely human perspective that one is thrilled with the goodness and blessing of winter… blizzards, sleet, cold, ice, slippery walks and steps, snow blindness, hypothermia, black ice, etc., etc., etc.!   However, when I think of winter, for some unknown reason my mind recalls a somewhat obscure verse buried at the end of the Apostle Paul’s second letter to his son in the faith, Pastor Timothy.

Make every effort to come before winter.

II  Timothy 4:21

Surely there were some practical reasons for this encouragement. In fact, according to II Timothy 4:13, Paul had left his cloak at Troas with Carpus along with some books and parchments. Obviously, with winter approaching Paul would need this loose fitting outer garment for protection from the elements. In addition, travel to Rome would involve both overland and sea transportation which is potentially much more hazardous during the winter months.  On the other hand, perhaps there is more to this statement than one immediately comprehends in a cursorily pass. 

Is this the heartfelt desire of the mentor, a spiritual father yearning to see his student and beloved son in the faith one last time before departing earth?  Incontestably, Paul’s days were numbered and any knock on the door or opening of the latch could be guards coming to escort the apostle to his impending Roman execution. Hypothetically, can you imagine Timothy thinking … well ok,  let me wrap some things up here in Ephesus, go down to Miletus to set apart and ordain a couple of elders, swing by Colossae to celebrate communion with some brothers and sisters there, and then head on to Italy … ?  Then, upon arriving in Rome, Pastor Tim seeks out Paul’s place of imprisonment, only to be cursed and repulsed by the guards.  Then he goes to the house of Claudia or Pudens, or Narcissus, or Mary, or Ampliatus searching for his coach … asking where to find the apostle.  It seems one can actually experience the haunting of their reply, “Are you Timothy? He was longing to see you, but he was beheaded in the first week of December!”

Come before winter or never!

Remember Christ’s reply to the disciple who complained that Mary’s costly and beautiful gift of ointment might have been expended on behalf of the poor?

For you always have the poor with you, but you do not always have Me.

John 12:8

Perhaps the true call of our Lord, Master Jesus is often, “Come before winter” — not tomorrow, when you’re ready, or after you get things straightened out and in proper/perfect order!  Never again would three sleeping disciples be asked to watch and pray with Jesus in his hour of agony. Sure, they were faithful in service and even death, but that unique opportunity  vanished and was gone forever just like Christ’s invitation to a follower in Luke 9:59/Mark 8:21! 

Just as winter comes, irrespective of one’s agenda, readiness, or timetable, so does a new year … and that’s every year.  Prepared and ready, or not — 2014 is here — right now and right on time!  And sure, it’s another year of opportunity, just like last year and every year, but let’s change that perspective into a year of action now! Why not fully accept and use the opportunities Christ lays before us? Speak those words of encouragement, demonstrate kindness, give cheerfully, confirm appreciation, pray in faith believing, be led by God’s Holy Spirit, let His Word richly dwell within you, serve with gladness, and rejoice evermore, all before winter!   

— By GRACE, His & Yours, 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

POWER

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This word throughout the biblical text is indicative of might, strength, and force.  It is used in the Old Testament to render many Hebrew words like that for valor, rule, and dominion.  The principal words for “power” in the New Testament are ‎dunamis‎, from which we get the word dynamite in English, and ‎exousia which refers to jurisdiction over a certain realm, a right, privilege, or ability.  In Mark 3:15 and 6:7 Jesus gives His followers authority over demons and/or unclean spirits; and in Ephesians 1:21 Christ Himself is depicted with strength, “far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and (above and over) every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.” Romans 9:21 reinforces this understanding of “power” when asking, “does not the potter have a right over the clay?”

This type of “power” is attributed preeminently to God, whose absolute attribute of omnipotence (almighty, all-powerful) is referenced in I Chronicles 29:11-13:    

Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, indeed everything that is in the heavens and the earth;  Yours is the dominion, O Lord, and You exalt Yourself as head over all.  Both riches and honor come from You, and You rule over all, and in Your hand is power and might; and it lies in Your hand to make great and to strengthen everyone.  Now therefore, our God, we thank You, and praise Your glorious name.

In Revelation 7:12 the testimony of God’s power is expressed as those gathered around the throne fall on their faces and declare,   

Amen, blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might, be to our God forever and ever.  Amen.

God’s supreme manifestation of this “power,” as in His wisdom, His mercy, His grace, and His love, is redemption.

For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.  — I Corinthians 1:18

For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not come to know God, God was well-pleased through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe.  For indeed Jews  ask for signs and Greeks search for wisdom; but we preach Christ crucified, to Jews a stumbling block and to Gentiles foolishness, but to those who are the called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.     — I Corinthians 1:21-2

In addition, the preaching of Christ’s gospel is often accompanied by a display, manifestation, or demonstration of “power” as affirmed in I Corinthians 2:4.  Paul reminds us in I Thessalonians 1:5 that this transforming message of grace, forgiveness, love, joy, peace, and hope, “did not come to you in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction!”  Miracles are also noted by Jesus Christ, when translated literally, as “works of power” in reference to His own supernatural ministry on earth in Matthew 11:21, 23.  

As we’ve been studying on Sunday mornings and most recently on Wednesday evenings, we, as faithful followers of JC, recognize and are fully aware of these truths.

1.  The power of God raised Christ from the dead.

2.  That same power will raise all true believers who are Christ’s as part of the first resurrection.

3.  This power, God’s supernatural, incomparable, immeasurable, restorative, rejuvenating omnipotence, resides within us.

Therefore, we shall not be moved, we shall remain steadfast through all things (even physical persecution which may lay at our doorstep) in the hope and confidence of our Lord, Jesus Christ and His provision of great “power” … “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.” I  John 4:4.  In the consideration of “power” I’m challenging all of us to study, meditate upon, and fully embrace  II Timothy 1:7:

For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power (dunámeoos – dynamite) and love and discipline.

His & Yours, PF