matthew – Page 4

AUTHORITY

Posted on March 18, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

The Greek word “exousia” is often translated in the English New Testament as “authority” — as in the sense of having the ability and/or power/force coupled with the right, freedom, or privilege.

Through a little diligent study of the New Testament, one will discover 5 ranges or scopes (areas) of “authority” clearly distinguished within the biblical text.

GOD – is the ultimate source of all power and authority with the absolute freedom of action without being controlled by necessity nor restraint. This is plainly illustrated in Romans 9:21 – “Or does not the potter have a right over the clay, to make from the same lump one vessel for honorable use and another for common use?”
RULERS & LEADERS – are granted subordinate power/authority in society (kings, magistrates, owners, stewards, etc.), as well as in the Church (pastors, elders, leaders, etc.), with Christ being seated above all “rule and authority and power and dominion” in Ephesians 1:20-21. While it may seem odd, this is also true of Satan and his agents in connection with their sphere of power/authority. When humanity rebelled against God and sinned against Him, He withdrew His presence, but not His ownership! Remember, “The earth is the Lord’s, and all it contains, the world, and those who dwell in it.” — Psalm 24:1 In addition, the devil could not assault Job without permission!
CHRIST – the authority and power exercised by the Lord within the framework of His commission is incomparable, unmatched by any individual! He has the authority, power, and the right to forgive sins (Mark 2:10), cast out demons (Mark 3:15), teach as no other (Matthew 7:29), raise the dead (Luke 7:12-15), heal the blind (Luke 18:35-43), calm the sea (Mark 4:38-41), even exercise judgment (John 5:27), and demonstrate irrefutable discernment (John 4:17-18) … all of which is granted by the Father to reveal Christ’s divinity and enhance His Gospel.
THE APOSTLES – were sent forth by Christ Himself with great authority! In one case they were celebrating because the demons were subject to them. (Luke 10:17-19) However, the Lord quickly reminded them in verse 20 … “Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are recorded in heaven.”

This is not, of course, an absolute or inherent authority. It is an authority granted by the commissioning of Christ. Hence, the elements of responsibility are prominent with the charge, and it is essential that the apostles make proper use of this (HIS) authority/power. In addition, these leaders are provided financial support by the believers, while they teach and guide — with authority — the development and ministries of Christ’s Church.

5. CHRIST’S CHURCH – which is made up of individual believers, is a divine institution created by Christ for the benefit of its membership, the continuation of Christ’s earthly ministry in His physical absence, and the fulfillment of His great commission of making disciples. Therefore, each individual, as well as each New Testament Church body, has authority granted to it by its head/leader, Jesus Christ, according to Matthew 28:18-20:

And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.

What shall we, as believers, make of / say to these things?

NOW — think about that! –Pastor Frank

HARVEST

Posted on March 10, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

For most of us in urban or suburban America, harvest time is of little concern because in the complexity of our lives we are far removed from the actual production of our food supply. However, for the Hebrew people of the Bible, the “harvest” was a most important season, just like those that reside in agricultural areas today. In Genesis 8:22, the Lord insures the significance of this season for humanity; “While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease.”

The three principal feasts of the Jews corresponded to their three harvest seasons (Ex 23:16; 34:21-22).

1. The feast of the Passover in April is at the time of the barley harvest (Ruth 1:22)

2. The feast of Pentecost is 7 weeks after Passover, which is the wheat harvest (Ex 34:22).

3. The feast of Tabernacles is in the fall at the end of the Hebrew yearly calendar (October), which is the fruit harvest.

The first-fruits of these harvests were to be presented to Yahweh and used as a wave offering (Lev 23:9-14).

Figuratively speaking from the Old Testament, a destroyed harvest typified devastation or aspects of affliction (Job 5:5; Isa 16:9; 17:11; Jer 5:17; 50:16). The “time of harvest” frequently referenced a day of destruction (Jer 51:33; Hos 6:11; Joel 3:13); however, “Joy in harvest” typified great joy (Isa 9:3). A “harvest of the Nile” spoke of an abundant harvest (Isa 23:3), while “The harvest is past” meant that an appointed time or opportunity was gone (Jer 8:20).

In the New Testament Gospels, Jesus uses the Greek word “therismos” in a new context, referring to the harvest of souls. In Matthew 9:37-38, Christ speaks to His disciples, which is inclusive of us, concerning the need for laborers/workers who are available to gather His harvest — Then He said to His disciples:

The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Therefore, beseech the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest.

John 4:23 also speaks to our Lord’s harvest when He challenges all believers:

Do you not say, ‘There are yet four months, and then comes the harvest’? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look on the fields, that they are white (ready) for harvest.

According to Christ’s statement, the Gospel would be effective … very effective! Therefore, there would be a harvest of individuals that would need to be gathered! This need would be evident very soon and continue throughout the ages until our Lord comes and establishes His Kingdom on earth.

Christ explains the parable of the wheat and tares (Matthew 13:24-30) in Matthew 13:36-43 in which He uses the word “harvest” in an extremely sad and dreadful context:

Then He left the crowds and went into the house. And His disciples came to Him and said, “Explain to us the parable of the tares of the field.” And He said, “The one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man, and the field is the world; and as for the good seed, these are the sons of the kingdom; and the tares are the sons of the evil one; and the enemy who sowed them is the devil, and the harvest is the end of the age; and the reapers are angels. “So just as the tares are gathered up and burned with fire, so shall it be at the end of the age. “The Son of Man will send forth His angels, and they will gather out of His kingdom all stumbling blocks, and those who commit lawlessness, and will throw them into the furnace of fire; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. “Then THE RIGHTEOUS WILL SHINE FORTH AS THE SUN in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears, let him hear.

May we have ears to hear! Which harvest will you be part of? –PF

ABRAHAM’S BOSOM

Posted on March 4, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

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

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

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

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

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

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

This is clearly depicted in John 13:23 –

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

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

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

His & Yours, PF

TOLERANCE

Posted on March 8, 2021 by West Oaks Fellowship

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Just think about it – Pastor Frank

EXPEDIENT

Posted on February 8, 2021February 8, 2021 by West Oaks Fellowship

In 1 Corinthians 10:23, the Apostle Paul declares, “All things are lawful, but not all things are profitable (expedient). All things are lawful, but not all things edify.” The Greek root word “sumphero” used here, translated as expedient, might also be profitable or useful in your biblical text, depending on the version/translation.

We understand that in the principle/Truth of spiritual freedom and liberty, our activities are not regulated by religious law, but by one’s desire to please the Lord (see Ephesians 5:7-10). Obviously, “pleasing the Lord” is of great benefit in our lives, thus making it a profitable (expedient) venture. However, the verse goes on to include engagement with other individuals, as the focus of the verse emphasizes things that edify. This is actually a very constructive concept if fully grasped … implying that as believers, we have some obligation to involve ourselves … actively engaging (intentionally) in that which promotes the building up (Gk root – oikodomeo; edification; emboldenment) of others (in context, believers in the body of Christ, but not exclusive of other humans)!

In addition, things that are not profitable and not good for edification should actually be avoided! Paul acted … apparently living his life for the welfare and benefit of Christ’s church. His object was to save individuals, make disciples, and assist in the establishment of Christ’s Church in various areas as the selected vehicle to accomplish the Great Commission of our Lord. (see Matthew 28:19-20). Anything that would promote that objective was proper; anything which would hinder it, though in itself it might not be strictly classified as sinful or unlawful, was in his view … to be avoided/evaded.

At the outset (initially), this seems to be a relatively simple guideline for believers, and we would probably all agree to its importance. However, within the realities of life, particularly in 2020/2021 and COVID-19, this becomes a difficult proposition.

At the forefront of most of our thinking and activities, we ultimately, if given the opportunity, pursue what makes us feel good, happy, fulfilled, etc.

However, if an individual truly has their mind/heart set upon the conversion of others and their spiritual development, when and where do our personal desires, wants, etc. take a back seat? How do we regulate our conduct in reference to many things concerning life to which there may be no exact biblical directive?

Certainly, we, as faithful followers of Jesus Christ, already do much to regulate our lifestyles – dress, methods/types of entertainment; modes/styles of speech, expenses, values, and behavior as we fellowship with believers and interact with others in our world. However, at times (perhaps due to our culture or pure selfishness) it is quite difficult to say that this or that article of clothing is improper; that this or that piece of furniture is absolutely forbidden because it’s just too expensive; or that this or that activity is improper, because it interferes with life’s objective of accomplishing that which is “expedient” (profitable) from our Lord’s perspective! Nonetheless, such a Holy Spirit-directed, Truth-guided purpose for living is a much better controller than any and all legalistic concepts of religion’s law!

Therefore, that which is actually spiritually “expedient” (profitable) in this life is only birthed and refined to maturity through a genuine relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. The more one knows Him, and interacts with Him, the more one is apt to become like Him!

For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren.
Romans 8:29

For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, so that by them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust.
1 John 3:2

Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.… Not seeking my own profit but the profit of the many, so that they may be saved.
1 Corinthians 10:31, 33b

Help me (us) Lord! HIS & yours, Pastor Frank

FUSION

Posted on December 16, 2020 by West Oaks Fellowship

FUSION, not to be confused with fission, is defined as a union, combination, mixture, or blending, according to contemporary English dictionaries. Beginning right now, I’d like you to join me in beseeching God to make this year of increased “fusion” at West Oaks Fellowship. As this dynamic occurs, each of us will be challenged to alter some of our “church“ thinking, opening our hearts (extremely wide) to the new opportunities our Lord has “prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.” (Eph 2:10)

Too often, God’s people stumble, trip, and even fall down over what they believe or think “ought to be,” rather than recognizing what Christ is actually accomplishing in the midst of the congregation or attempting to carry-out in their own lives and ministry. This was certainly true in many Old Testament accounts like Sari, who laughed at God’s promise, Joseph’s jealous brothers who simply had no clue about God’s mechanisms, or the children of Israel who desired to return to Egypt, preferring quail instead of God’s supernatural provision. Later, their descendants chose Saul to rule over them as king, rather than God, not to mention his folly of turning to satanic powers for spiritual guidance. Nehemiah knew God’s purpose and plan, yet met tremendous opposition similar in spirit to that encountered by Joshua and Caleb when they returned with a good report about the Land of Promise.

Consider Christ’s own ministry in the New Testament, and the deep anguish of His heart in Matthew 13:13-15 when He said,

Therefore I speak to them in parables; because while seeing they do not see, and while hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand.

In their case the prophecy of Isaiah is being fulfilled, which says,

YOU WILL KEEP ON HEARING, BUT WILL NOT UNDERSTAND; YOU WILL KEEP ON SEEING, BUT WILL NOT PERCEIVE; FOR THE HEART OF THIS PEOPLE HAS BECOME DULL, WITH THEIR EARS THEY SCARCELY HEAR, AND THEY HAVE CLOSED THEIR EYES, OTHERWISE THEY WOULD SEE WITH THEIR EYES, HEAR WITH THEIR EARS, AND UNDERSTAND WITH THEIR HEART AND RETURN, AND I WOULD HEAL THEM.

How about the frustration of Paul with the Corinthian church, when they “do not lack any spiritual gift” (1:7), yet in reality are “worldly, fleshly, mere babes?” (3:1) Let us agree – “not me,” and, “not at WOF!” God’s desire for the Corinthian church was increased “FUSION,” NOT FISSION! “Now I exhort you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all agree and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be made complete in the same mind and in the same judgment.” (1:10-11) However, they were too immature to achieve a true spiritual blending or combining. They were selfish, pridefully debating the superiority of certain ministries, suing each other, bragging about sinful behavior, offering preferential treatment to some, and misusing their spiritual gifts while allowing complete disorder in the church’s ministry.

The days that lie ahead will offer everyone at WOF many new opportunities for growth and service. Neighborhood fellowship groups are on the near horizon, new member ministries are in waiting, and discipleship classes are starting. Many existing, new and/or struggling ministries are just waiting for you to jump in with resources and support. All this presents each person with an opportunity to either recognize what God is doing in our midst, or loose sight of His work. Are we mature enough to reach forward with increased FUSION? Can we stay focused on Christ, sacrificial offering our service and support in order to impact others lives and our community with Christ’s Gospel, in spite of what we think “ought to be?” Will we get tripped-up, seeing but not seeing, hearing but not hearing or understanding? Believe me, there will be plenty to gripe, complain and even gossip about, but instead, why not choose FUSION and pray?

Ask to see, hear, and understand. Just think about it. – Pastor Frank

EYE

Posted on November 4, 2020 by West Oaks Fellowship

In our Old Testament scriptures, the word “eye” is translated from the Hebrew word ‘ayin, generally speaking, literally, of the physical organ of sight, which is one of the chief channels of information for human beings. David is described as having beautiful eyes (1 Samuel 16:12), and in Canticles (Song of Songs or Song of Solomons), the lovers describe each other as having eyes like doves (1:15; 4:1; 5:12) and comparable to the pools in Heshbon (7:4). You may also recall from Genesis 29:17, that Leah (Jacob’s first wife) had “weak” eyes, although the meaning of the Hebrew word in this passage could mean faint as well as soft, delicate, or tender hearted.

A very cruel, fully-sanctioned custom among heathen nations was gouging out the eyes of one’s enemies or rivals because this significantly and effectively shattered their power (Judges 16:21; 2 Kings 25:7; Jeremiah 39:7). The judgmental blinding or putting out of the “right eye” was also considered a deep form of societal humiliation, robbing the victim of beauty, and making one unfit or ineligible for military service (1 Samuel 11:2; Zechariah 11:17).

In Deuteronomy 7:16, the Israelites were instructed by Moses, in the execution of Yahweh’s judgment upon nations and wrongdoers (Deuteronomy 19:13,21; 25:12), that their “eye shall not pity,” … therefore not deflected from the dictates of God’s laws by feelings of sympathy. In a similar way, God, in Ezekiel 5:11 warned, “My eye will have no pity and I will not spare” the execution of judgment upon those who, “defiled My sanctuary with all your detestable idols and with all your abominations!” Even the Hebrew laws, “lex talionis” (law of retribution or retaliation), at times demanded … “life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot” (Exodus 21:23-25; Leviticus 24:20; Deuteronomy 19:21). By the way, genuine believers are enlisted by a different calling and standard in Matthew 5:38-48 … check it out!

The New Testament generally uses the Greek root word, ophthalmos for “eye” which is akin to opis, commonly translated as “sight” in English Bibles. When Christ restores the sight of two blind men alongside the road while leaving Jericho, this Greek root word is referring to the eye as the physical organ, which clearly demonstrated His power over eyesight, proving His Messiahship according to the Luke 4:18-19!

Our Bibles also use the word “eye” figuratively to beautifully illustrate the intimate relationship (in Hebrew thought) between spiritual and physical realities. The brightness of eyes is a sign of well-being (Psalm 19:8 compared to Psalm 38:10). In addition, eyes provide a path of expression for a variety of emotions and/or mental attitudes – grief (Psalm 6:7); tears (Psalm 119:136); expressions of mockery and or hatred (Psalm 35:19; Proverbs 10:10, 30:17), haughtiness (Psalm 18:27; Proverbs 6:18), evil sexual desires/lusts (2 Peter 2:14; Matthew 5:29).

Next, to “lift up the eyes” is an important phrase found in the scriptures. Largely, it means looking around for information, direction, and sometimes for help. To “close the eyes” or “hide the eyes” indicates carelessness or lacking sympathy as in Matthew 13:15. Proverbs 28:27 declares, “He who gives to the poor will never want, but he who shuts his eyes will have many curses.” Setting or fixing one’s “eyes upon,” means focusing attention to something or toward a particular individual(s). In Psalm 119:6 the focus is turned to all the Lord’s commandments, and in Luke 4:20 all the eyes of those in the synagogue are fixed upon Christ as He reads about Himself from Isaiah 61 and declares, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.”

Biblically speaking, often the eye(s) represents the total process of perception and understanding … the organs of spiritual cognizance that may be enlightened, awakened, or opened as is the request found in Psalm 119:18, “Open my eyes, that I may behold wonderful things from Your law.” This action is accomplished by the Word (Psalm 19:8) and/or by the works of God’s Holy Spirit within believers (Ephesians 1:18-19). Sadly, a person’s eyes may also be “darkened” and/or “blinded” as found in 2 Corinthians 4:3-4.

Undoubtedly, in this very moment/hour, it’s essential that we, as believers carefully consider the admonition of our Lord, Jesus Christ from Matthew 6:22-23, “The eye is the lamp of the body; so then if your eye is clear, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light that is in you is darkness, how great is the darkness!” (Also see/study Luke 11:34-36)

Please take time to study these many verses, and as Hebrew 12:2 states, fix your eyes upon Jesus, “the author and perfector of faith!”

His & Yours,

SALT

Posted on August 6, 2020 by West Oaks Fellowship

Have you ever heard the term, “not worth his/her salt?” That concept comes from the Latin word “salarium” from which we get the English word, salary. The “sal” of “salarium” actually means salt. A soldier in the Roman Empire might have actually have been paid in salt blocks due to the fact that it was a valuable commodity and could easily be traded or sold in any country or region’s market place.

In biblical times, salt was recognized as a necessity for life as referenced in the extra biblical writing, Ecclus 39:26:

“The principal things for the whole use of man’s life are water, fire, iron, and salt, flour of wheat, honey, milk, and the blood of the grape, and oil, and clothing.”

In Judaism, according to Leviticus 2:13, salt was a required additive to offerings and was spiritually symbolic within a covenant.

“Every grain offering of yours, moreover, you shall season with salt, so that the salt of the covenant of your God shall not be lacking from your grain offering; with all your offerings you shall offer salt.”

In the Middle East, when men ate together, they became friends – thus the Arabic expressions, “there is salt between us” or “he has eaten of my salt,” which means partaking of hospitality which cemented friendships. Since salt was valuable, needed as a preservative, and used to enhance taste, it became symbolic of an enduring covenant relationship.

Abimelech, a judge of Israel, sowed salt over his own capital city, Shechem, after quelling a revolt against him around 1050 BC (See Judges 9:35). We know historically, that this became a common practice in the Roman Empire as well. They also used this same sowing process to sterilize soil and keep vegetation from damaging their roadways.

Turning to the New Testament, we find salt used practically, as well as symbolically. In Matthew 5:13, Christ Jesus declares,

“You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.”

It is clearly understood that sodium chloride is a stable compound that does not disintegrate … losing its “saltiness.” However, the common salt in Israel was primarily salt from the Dead Sea, aka Salt Sea, which was highly contaminated with other minerals. As a result, it would dissolve and could become (in the process of evaporation which was used to separate the salt from the water) a tasteless substance. These salts all diminished in flavor and/or usefulness over time. Therefore, this fact provides contextual understanding to Christ’s statement in this passage.

Here, our Lord is speaking to His followers and those gathered to hear Him teach, which is a Hebrew/Jewish audience. He also makes similar references in the other Synoptic Gospels (see Mark 9:50 and Luke 14:34). Jesus’ potential followers could/should have ultimately (as their faith developed) become like salt in that they would create a thirst in others for greater information and understanding … enhancing the taste. When one sees a unique individual, who possesses superior qualities in specific areas, one desires to discover why that person’s life is distinctly different from others in the world. It’s also possible that salt, as a preservative (a means and method familiar in that society – particularly among fishermen), means these individuals would/could/should serve as a preservative restraint against the evils in society. Whichever view is taken, the important and significant quality to denote in Christ’s teaching is that the salt must absolutely maintain its basic trait/characteristic. If, somehow it fails to be salty, then it has definitely lost its purpose for existence and should be discarded.

Is there a message here for believers in Christ’s 21^st century church? While I, personally, use little salt on my food, and frankly don’t understand why some people ruin an excellent food’s taste by over-salting it, or even salting before tasting — in this case the more salt/saltiness the better! Shake it out.

Are you salty? Think about it, pray about it … then do something about it. Let’s all agree to be — worth our salt!

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