paul

SEALED

Posted on October 6, 2023October 6, 2023 by West Oaks Fellowship

The word “sealed” has many meanings and is used in numerous ways in our everyday language; however, when it comes to its use in Scripture, therein one finds great spiritual significance for each and every true disciple of Jesus Christ!

As an example, let’s consider Ephesians 1:13-14 …

In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation — having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of God’s own possession, to the praise of His glory.

In this incredible passage that speaks volumes to every believer in Christ Jesus, Paul employs the Greek root word “‎‎sphragizo” – to stamp (with a signet or private distinguishing mark) for security reasons or preservation and/or permanency (both literally or figuratively); by implication, to keep, seal up, or plug (as in stopping something up / keep from leaking). In Matthew 27:66, Christ’s tomb was “sealed” for security purposes. Revelation 20:3 reminds us that Satan is “sealed” (to shut him both up and out) in the abyss for 1000 years during the millennial reign of Christ and His redeemed, resurrected, glorified saints / priests! (see Romans 8:17; 2 Timothy 2:12; Revelation 5:10, 20:6)

Accordingly, we as believers have been “sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise” (PTL) “as a pledge of our inheritance!” Now I’m not sure any of us can really understand or comprehend privilege, unless we can fully wrap up this undeserved spiritual endowment that’s been abundantly poured out upon His people. We carry the distinguishing mark of Jesus Christ in the presence, power, preservation, and permanency of God’s Holy Spirit. Unique in all of creation and humanity … we are the ones sealed up by Him “as a pledge on our inheritance!”

“Pledge” – as used in this text, is a Greek word coming from a Hebrew origin, meaning the front-end part of the purchase-money, or in reference to assets that are given / paid in advance as security / a guarantee that the rest of a specific price will be paid in full. This is paid in earnest, from which modern-day real estate contracts derive the term earnest money. As a spiritual and theological application, Jesus Christ has purchased us for / on behalf of God the Father by His own shed blood (see Revelation 5:9), and then, for one’s own assurance, God’s Holy Spirit has been dispatched to be with us and in us, as His possession, “a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation.” (See 1 Peter 2:9) This is security / a guarantee that our Lord’s sacrifice and atoning death, coupled with His indescribable grace and our simple faith / belief in Him, provides every genuine believer with their inheritance … everlasting life, as well as an eternity in His presence. As His people, we are even boldly instructed to confidently rest in and fully rely on this perpetual, immutable truth. (see Hebrews 4:1-16)

For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, “Abba! Father.” The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him.
— Romans 8:14-17

Later, in Paul’s letter to the church at Ephesus, he reminds believers not to grieve the Holy Spirit of God in Whom they have been “sealed” while awaiting the day of redemption. (see Ephesians 4:30) Note, believers are “sealed,” not by anything one may achieve or instigate according to their own will or power, but as the authoritative, commanding act of God! One is brought into a life lived by faith in Christ Jesus by a supernatural act of God according to His lovingkindness, mercy, and of course, sovereignty and providence. Then by that same mechanism, “sealed” by Him, for Him, and ultimately stamped with this distinguishing mark for His glory!

To be “sealed” with God’s Holy Spirit as a pledge of our inheritance in Christ is the gracious gift of God, whereby He demonstrates the authenticity of a believer’s relationship with Him. Here is full-fledged proof / evidence of His authority, His ownership, and His commitment to each one of us forever!

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

Pastor Frank

GOSPEL

Posted on June 13, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

The Gospel is under serious attack in today’s secularized church. It’s impossible to properly stress the imperative need of getting the Gospel right … understanding both the person, the message, and the completed / finished work of Jesus Christ. In addition, we must permanently lock-on-to the personal dimension of how we, as individual believers, benefit from the Gospel through the means of GRACE (unmerited/undeserved/unearned favor) combined with genuine FAITH.

Preachers, Pastors, Evangelists, Bible Teachers, etc. say they “preach the gospel” — but if one listens carefully, with a biblical mindset (world view), we may find very little “Gospel” in what’s being presented. The term “Gospel” has become a nickname for preaching almost anything, rather than something with definitive scriptural-based content and objective. The word for “GOSPEL” comes from the Greek word euangelion. Notice it has the prefix “eu” which is translated into English meaning something “good” or “pleasant”. The Greek word angelos or angelion is translated into English as “message”. Combined, euangelion, basically and simply means a “good message” or “good news”. Matthew 4:23 declares:

Jesus was going throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every kind of disease and every kind of sickness among the people.

In ancient times, when armies marched out into battle, the people waited anxiously for a report from the battlefield concerning the outcome of the conflict. Once the results were known, a highly skilled / trained marathon runner would dash back and give a report. This is the concept found in Isaiah 52:7 when God’s prophet penned:

How lovely on the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who announces peace and brings good news of happiness!

The watchman in the tower would gaze out as far as he could see, hoping to catch a glimpse of the runner. Eventually he would see the dust flying as the runner approached the city, and an excellent watchman could even tell by the way the runner’s legs were churning whether it was going to be good news or not. If the runner was struggling, it indicated a grim, forbidding report, but if his legs were flying, with dust kicking up, that meant good news … which is the fundamental concept of the Gospel!

While the term “Gospel” may be used in literature referring to the first 4 books of the New Testament, as previously stated, Gospel means good news. Christ’s forerunner, John the Baptist, boldly proclaimed as good news, “the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand!” Putting it simply, nonetheless, the Gospel (good news message) is Jesus Christ!

The announcement of MESSIAH, who He is, and what He accomplished, is the pinnacle, as well as the culmination of GOOD NEWS! If we share our salvation testimony with others saying, “I became a Christian last year, or I gave my heart to Jesus,” we are certainly and unashamedly bearing witness about Christ, but we are not sharing the Gospel. The gospel is not about us! The gospel is only about Jesus Christ – all that He accomplished … His sinless life of perfect obedience, His atoning and sacrificial death on the cross, His victorious resurrection from the dead (conquering forever sin and death), His ascension into heaven, and the powerful outpouring of God’s Holy Spirit upon Christ’s Church on that glorious day of PENTECOST!

These crucial elements are the objective aspects of the Gospel as presented and reiterated time and time again throughout the New Testament scriptures. So as believers, will we be determined to stand with the Apostle Paul and the pure good news of Christ’s message, or yield to the influence of another or different gospel? (See Galatians 1:6-8)

It’s certainly time to consider and verify your position.

His & Yours, Pastor Frank

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.

For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written,
“BUT THE RIGHTEOUS man SHALL LIVE BY FAITH.”
Romans 1:16-17

COUNT

Posted on May 5, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

How do you count? The idea of the Greek word “hegeomai,” translated in Philippians 3:7 as “counted,” and twice in verse 8 as “count,” deals with one’s own thinking, viewpoint, or thought process. In other words, in respect to all the credit and honor I have been afforded through my zealous achievements in Judaism, I consider them all absolutely no value for the purpose(s) of Jesus Christ. Then he further expounds on this consideration in verses 8-11:

More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ, and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith, that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; in order that I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.

Please notice how Paul now moves to an even greater intensity by audaciously declaring that he is counting “all things” worthless or of no consequence when compared to what he has gained in/through Christ! This includes not only his Jewish privileges, but all other things of every kind that humans count/consider valuable or profitable.

Now, let’s momentarily shift from counting to accounting. The Greek word “zemia,” translated here as “loss,” refers to something becoming damaged or useless. Something that once was considered a valuable asset, is now being written-off 100% as if it has lost all value and become “rubbish” or “dung” (KJV) … in other words — useless, worthless, or absolutely of no value. Interestingly, the Greek word “skubala” translated here as “rubbish” or “dung,” implies the vilest dross or refuse of anything; the worst excrement. This word is employed to show how utterly insignificant, hollow and meaningless, the apostle esteemed everything except the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

With his very best assets and achievements he freely parted, judging them all a total loss and putting in their place his relationship with Christ, the Lord, which he valiantly esteems as infinite/unlimited/countless gain. What Paul’s former life and religion could not do, gain, or give, Jesus Christ accomplished/provided. The Apostle Paul stands as incontrovertible proof … He tried the accolades of humanity and religion, but found it vanity; he tried the Gospel and found it to be the power of God unto his salvation. By “counting” (considering) all that the world called excellent of no value, he gained Christ in relationship NOW and eternal salvation in/through Him FOREVER.

To/for the surpassing greatness and value of Christ’s Gospel and its liberating, transforming power in a true believer’s life and Christian experience, Paul remains an unimpeachable witness. The difficult question for us as committed followers of Jesus Christ is, will we learn to count as Paul counted? Has there ever been a true renovation, an accounting adjustment where one actually sits down and starts evaluating the value of all that one is and has in direct comparison to the value of knowing Christ, the righteousness that comes from God through faith, the power of Christ’s resurrection, and the fellowship of His suffering? What have you moved to the “dung” column? What have you charged off (removed from the asset column and considered it a total loss)? Perhaps it’s time for all believers to do a complete audit. Can we actually get to a place in our lives where we fully appreciate and decidedly value the things of our Lord, and freely devalue, as well as part with, those things our world and humanity wrongly hold in high esteem?

This process actually starts with small steps in the right direction. It’s difficult for me to imagine that Paul got to this profound position and understanding overnight, but ultimately he did it. He had to start somewhere, and that’s true for each of us as well. I know, you’re not the Apostle Paul! Perfect – all the more the reason to start the process in an unrelenting manner sooner than later. Since you’re not him, it may take less time or more time. Nonetheless, what will you call “dung” so it will not distract your pursuit of Him, and His of you?

Our goal must be to stand in the same light as Paul did, counting the same way he learned to count, parting with all that which has no true value, and present ourselves as unimpeachable witnesses of Christ’s redemption and transforming power. So what if the world’s value system goes topsy-turvy? Our counting and theirs, just like our lives as faithful believers, should never … will never be the same.

Think on it, pray on it, act on it.

— Pastor Frank

What saves a man is to take a step. Then another step.
— C. S. Lewis

APPEARANCE

Posted on May 5, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

The appearance of stars marks the end of the day . . . In Nehemiah 4:21, those rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem had to split their efforts between half standing guard and half diligently laying stones, both working long hours … “from the break of dawn till the stars came out.” One may recall that one of the reasons our Lord placed lights (including the stars) in the heavens was “to separate the day from the night, and let them be for signs and for seasons and for days and years.” However, God uses the “star” and our “stars” throughout the scriptures for many distinctive purposes.

The OT shows awareness of the stars’ immense number, which many explain why so many humans looked to them for spiritual direction, or even worshiped individual stars and constellations as gods. Of course, consulting their alignment for spiritual guidance (astrology, not astronomy or geography) or worshiping them in any manner was strictly forbidden because it completely disregarded and rebelliously denied God’s purpose in their creation. (Perhaps one should take a moment right now just to consider how many other things in God’s creation have crumpled into this same type of demise.)

Stars were created by God … their task is only that which is established by God. They are totally subordinate to God, under His absolute authority and control, and intended for His glory/ purpose(s). (See Psalm 19:1-6) This status is tenaciously reinforced in Psalm 147:4:

He counts the number of the stars; He gives names to all of them.

Thus, their existence and destiny are completely according to His will, even including whether they shine or not! (See Job 9:7-10). Actually, they respond as creatures, in the same manner we as Christ’s followers, God’s children, should. While the language in Judges 5:20 is certainly poetic, stars fighting against Israel’s enemies clearly demonstrates that the Lord can deliberately and unreservedly use any and all the forces of the universe to accomplish His purpose(s). After all, whose universe is it?

Accordingly, throughout the universe, all stars are to “praise Him.” (See Psalm 148:3)

Is there any different calling for humanity?

Interestingly, in the Bible, perhaps because of their brilliance and glory, the word “star” is used symbolically of creatures, both enemies and servants of God, as well as individuals. In an unique play on words, according to Isaiah 14:12, the symbolic king of Babylon, Lucifer, imagining himself to be the “Day Star,” “son of Dawn,” or the “Star of the Morning,” was not satisfied with his dominant position, but sought to ascend above the stars (a place reserved for God alone). His desire to take the place of God presented a direct challenge to God’s authority and power.

As a result, the king was cast down in defeat (14:12-15). By the way, astronomically speaking, Venus is the morning star because it’s seen first from the earth’s perspective. Jesus Christ is not the “Star of the Morning” (that’s Lucifer/Satan), as presented by some biblically illiterate or confused Christian musicians, but He is undeniably the Bright Morning Star described in II Peter 1:19 and Revelation 22:16.

Jude 13 audaciously and fearlessly declares the opponents of God as:

wandering stars, for whom the black darkness has been reserved forever.

Conversely, the OT compares the coming Messiah to a rising star and scepter in Numbers 24:17, and in one case, stars symbolize the glory of the resurrected life for true believers … Those who turn many to righteousness will rise in the resurrection, and will shine “like the stars for ever and ever.” (See Daniel 12:1-3). In addition, Paul compares the glory of a Christian’s exclusive resurrected body to the glory and distinction of the stars in I Corinthians 15:40-49.

Agnostic pantheist Carl Sagan, American astrophysicist, cosmologist, exobiologist, author (“Contact”) and TV host (“Cosmos”), stated, “we are star stuff.” However, the God who created the stars and their shine — the One who declared:

Light shall shine out of darkness, is the One who has shone in our (every true believer’s) hearts to give the Light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. (See II Corinthians 4:6)

Simply “star stuff” — or partakers and bearers of the True Light? God’s call, not ours or Sagan’s. See, knowing Him is knowing Truth … that’s GOD’S star stuff!

— Pastor Frank

BELIEVE

Posted on April 29, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

In Acts 16 one finds Paul and Silas ministering the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the community of Thyatira. However, they have been tossed into jail by local magistrates for disrupting some of the town’s commerce when they cast a demon out of a female fortune-teller who was hindering them. According to the biblical text (Acts 16:24) they were placed in the inner prison and their feet were secured in stocks.

Then around midnight (Acts 16:25), while they were praying and singing praises, a great earthquake causes the foundation of the prison to shake (Acts 16:26) and amazingly all doors are opened and everyone’s shackles are unfastened. Needless to say, at that point it’s only logical that all the prisoners would have escaped, but not in this case, instead they all stay, which ultimately saves the life of the jailer (Acts 16:27). Acts 16:28-30 reveals what happened next:

But Paul cried out with a loud voice, saying, ‘Do not harm yourself, for we are all here!’ And he called for lights and rushed in, and trembling with fear he fell down before Paul and Silas, and after he brought them out, he said, ‘Sirs, what must I do to be saved?

Isn’t it incredible how the Lord literally moves heaven and earth to bring one soul … one family, into His Kingdom! Notice their clear answer to the jailer’s question in Acts 16:31:

Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.

The directive is, “Believe in the Lord Jesus” … it’s simple and to the point, only requiring a genuine belief/faith in one thing/person, Jesus Christ! There are no, ZERO, conditions attached!

The Greek word for “believe” used in this passage, “pisteuo” (pronounced – pist-yoo’-o), means to fully commit, put in trust with, to have faith in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing. By implication, in this case, it means to fully (whole-heartedly) entrust one’s spiritual well-being to Christ!

But the righteousness based on faith speaks as follows: “DO NOT SAY IN YOUR HEART, ‘WHO WILL ASCEND INTO HEAVEN?’ (that is, to bring Christ down), or ‘WHO WILL DESCEND INTO THE ABYSS?’ (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead).” But what does it say? “THE WORD IS NEAR YOU, IN YOUR MOUTH AND IN YOUR HEART” — that is, the word of faith which we are preaching, that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation.
For the Scripture says, “WHOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, abounding in riches for all who call on Him; for “WHOEVER WILL CALL ON THE NAME OF THE LORD WILL BE SAVED.” — Romans 10:6-13

Ever since SALVATION IN CHRIST ALONE came into view, humans have attempted to add something of individual merit to the process without understanding that this approach takes away from the completed work of Jesus Christ. This methodology actually denies the teaching of Christ Himself, the apostles, Christ’s early church, and the revelation of Scripture! In Acts 15:11, after a hearty debate concerning salvation and the part that the “Law of Moses” should play in the conversion of Jews and non-Jews/Gentiles, our early church leaders boldly declared:

We believe that we are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, in the same way as they also are.

However, here is the persisting problem — salvation doesn’t come by simply stating, “I believe Jesus.” James reminds us that one does well to believe, but according to 2:19 … “the demons also believe, and shudder.” Genuine salvation is placing your full faith/trust in Jesus Christ. When that occurs, a process of spiritual transformation begins which makes one’s belief and/or faith in Jesus Christ absolutely and undeniably evident. According to James 2:18-20 the works of one’s living faith becomes obviously apparent (dynamically observable)! I John 5:1-10 speaks of such undeniable proof … true believers love God, love other believers, follow the Lord’s commandments, overcome the world (its philosophies, lies and fleshly passions), and possess an inner testimony of our Lord’s work that ultimately shines forth from within the heart and soul of Christ’s faithful.

As one looks further into this matter of believing, genuine salvation, and understanding who is a true believer, Hebrews 12:4-11 cannot be ignored. Our Lord is faithful to discipline those He loves for their own benefit (eventual blessing), as well as in accordance with His definitive and decisive plan/purpose. Unquestionably, if one isn’t receiving discipline, then no relationship exists according to Hebrews 12:7:

For what son (child/heir) is there whom his father does not discipline?

Certainly other spiritual qualities confirm one’s position in Christ such as the indwelling presence and abiding power of God’s Holy Spirit in causing believers to bear fruit (John 15:1-11), equipping them with spiritual gifts for service in His Body (Romans 12:3-8), providing supernatural manifestations (I Corinthians 12:7-11), and the substantiating Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-25).

Please hear the essential, indispensable questions: Are these qualities/traits yours and are they ever increasing as you live a life of faith (trusting and relying/believing in/on Jesus Christ)? (II Peter 3:4-11) As the Lord’s people, are we laying aside every encumbrance, the sin that so easily entangles us and running with endurance the race He has set before us with our eyes fixed upon Jesus? (Hebrews 12:1-2) If not, isn’t it time to truly, (full-heartedly) believe? Call upon the name of the Lord, Jesus Christ and experience His abundant mercy and grace, then the transformation will begin and you’ll never wonder again if you’re truly saved because the evidence will be apparent, noticeable by you and others as well!

Just do it!

His & Yours,

Pastor Frank

For we also once were foolish ourselves, disobedient, deceived, enslaved to various lusts and pleasures, spending our life in malice and envy, hateful, hating one another. But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by His grace we would be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
— Titus 3:3-7

WINTER

Posted on April 29, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

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

PROSPERITY

Posted on April 19, 2022April 19, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

“Beloved, I pray that in all respects you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers”

… a remarkable and extraordinary prayer from the Lord’s Apostle/Elder, John, for the believer Gaius from 3 John 2. Here, this faithful New Testament church leader expresses a strong and earnest desire for the side-by-side development of spiritual maturity, physical well-being, and material blessing. While certainly it is appropriate to seek God for any of these as significant aspects of one’s life, the coupling or joining of them together in this passage is unprecedented in the biblical text. In addition, there is supportive evidence that physical health and spiritual well-being are uniquely intertwined, and surely success and/or prosperity in one’s career or business affairs can play a role as well in any individual’s overall well-being.

Here, in 3 John 2 we find the Greek word, ‎euodoo (yoo-od-o’-o), which is a compound expression meaning to succeed along the road, to reach successfully, and/or to prosper in business affairs. The continuous tense in this scripture suggests consecutive, uninterrupted circumstances of varying prosperity as weeks follow weeks. This concept is in the likeness of the inner man being renewed “day after day” as in II Corinthians 4:16. In other words, this prayer finds Gaius’s faith father (see 3 John 4) praying for his spiritual, monetary/material, and physical well-being … prosperity!

Most committed Christians can either quote or find a verse related to God’s material blessings being poured out (like Luke 6:38), God’s provision of health and/or strength (as in Proverbs 3:7-10), or concerning spiritual growth/maturity (such as Colossians 1:10), but how about all three, spoken together in one powerful and discerning prayer passage? WOW! How do you think brother Gaius must have felt when he received and read this prayer from Elder John?

Undoubtedly, this experienced apostle/elder fully understood the concept conveyed by his co-laborer, the Apostle Paul, in his instructions to the Philippian church:

Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. (Phil 2:3-4)

Isn’t it interesting to note that this prayer ties both the physical health and material blessing directly to one’s spiritual growth and development as a vital/essential priority? It appears, according to 3 John 3, that Gaius is growing spiritually and that there is distinct/clear evidence of this maturing being manifested throughout his life. Apostle/Elder John seems to be delighted as well, even elated with his progress …

For I was very glad when brethren came and testified to your truth, that is, how you are walking in truth. I have no greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth. (3 John 3-4)

This simple, yet broad-reaching, unelaborate prayer would include success in business ventures and investments, happiness and peaceful fulfillment in domestic/family interactions, as well as within one’s spiritual relationships (with the Lord and other believers). In addition, this intercession is inclusive of all the activities, engagements, and/or transactions in which a committed believer might lawfully engage within one’s society (pagan or not). It shows that it is absolutely and unhesitatingly right for us to encourage our friends through prayer, whether in good times or bad, lean or abundance, that they may have success and growth in their spiritual lives, be in good health, physically/ mentally/ emotionally and prosper through the works of their hands and in their plans of life. John must surely have learned this from Jesus, whose concern for people’s physical troubles is attested to in all four Gospels. Certainly this is a biblical warrant for Christians today to pray for the temporal as well as the spiritual and physical needs of our peers in Christ.

At West Oaks Fellowship, we’ve learned to actively embrace our cultural differences, as well as the distinctions in our widely diversified heritages. We are truly “nations gathered for worship” who at the same time are actively “sharing the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15). Now let us embark on praying for one another — not just when needs arise — but as the Apostle/Elder John prayed for Gaius, that each one in our body will be in good health and prosper even as his/her soul prospers!

Let’s just do it! -PF

GRATEFUL

Posted on April 18, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.
William Arthur Ward – Christian Inspiration Writer

In our New Testament scriptures, the word “grateful” is not often found; but when employed, it has some very powerful implications for us as believers in Christ Jesus. The compound Greek words eucharisteo and eucharistia, from which the word Eucharist is derived, are translated in English Bibles as meaning gratitude–to be (actively) grateful, to express gratitude and/or thankfulness (towards God or an individual). It is also used in the sense of an attitude or feeling, particularly as related to acts of worship, expressions, statements, prayers of thanksgiving, and can even be connected to the idea of saying grace before a meal.

Therefore as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude.
Colossians 2:6-7

Here we find a thought-provoking concept. Since no limitation is ever set on the undertakings and transforming work of God’s Holy Spirit in one’s soul, or maximum capacity established on one’s spiritual growth and development in the true knowledge, love, and image of God, those who are brought into such a state of salvation and life in Christ Jesus should abound with gratitude as they grow and mature in the grace afforded them. Actually this verse is the closing statement of an argument set forth by the Apostle Paul beginning in Colossians chapter one:

A. In Christ, true Christians have reconciliation to/with God (1:22-23)

B. In Christ, true Christians are granted revelation concerning the mystery of Christ and the Gospel to the Gentiles (1:24-27)

C. In Christ, true Christians are brought to perfection (1:28-29)

D. In Christ, true Christians gain education/knowledge/wisdom (2:1-5)

As a result, active, on-going expressions of gratitude begin overflowing from the heart as believers begin to grasp and more clearly understand the great privilege and opportunity afforded them to become intimately acquainted with all of God’s precious and glorious promises toward those who trust in Him. If there is anything for which we ought to be “grateful,” it is for the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, who is the Truth and the abundant life we joyously experience. Perhaps our gratitude, both spiritually and practically, would flow much more freely to the Lord and others if we were more diligent about taking every thought captive. (See II Corinthians 10:5)

In I Timothy 4:3, we are reminded that God has “created” many things to be “gratefully shared in by those who believe and know the truth.” Then the apostle Paul continues — encouraging Christ’s followers to carefully consider their attitudes and perspective on life …

For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with gratitude; for it is sanctified by means of the word of God and prayer.
I Timothy 4:4

Perhaps this is a manifestation, a genuine outward display of spiritual growth — undoubtedly an individual who is continually abounding in gratefulness is making real progress!

Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe; for our God is a consuming fire.
Hebrews 12:28-19

Therefore, the purposeful demonstration of being authentically grateful becomes the indisputable expression of, and the undeniable/irrefutable proof, concerning the habitation of spiritual joy — whether directed towards God, an individual(s), or a situation/ circumstance.

Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.
William Arthur Ward

Fruit of God’s Holy Spirit (See Galatians 5:22) are both seen and heard, visible and perceived — consequently, believers are encouraged by all these biblical passages to abound in them. Nonetheless, while gratefulness is a key ingredient and building-block for experiencing joy in our daily Christian sojourn while confined to earth, we all know it’s really difficult to be “grateful” 24/7. Here are some tips for acquiring a grateful attitude and perspective for the life you now live in the flesh through faith in the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who loves you and gave Himself for you! (see Galatians 2:20)

1. Learn to say thanks, meaning it from your heart!

2. Consider your blessings, count them, instead of focusing on what you don’t have!

3. Give (money) as you earn (money) and sacrifice some time to serve Christ’s church!

4. Do nothing from selfishness/empty conceit, but in humility regard others as more important than yourself; not merely looking out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others — have this attitude in yourself which was also in Christ Jesus.

LET’S BECOME A GRATEFUL PEOPLE … ALL OF US AT WOF. We can do it! His & Yours, PF

WALK

Posted on March 31, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

Yes, I walk my dog (Wof-E-Too) twice a day, morning and evening (Brenda usually goes with us in the evening), rain or shine, except on Saturday, when I do the morning, and Sunday when I do the evening. Brenda catches Saturday night because we work late and Sunday morning because I head out to our early service and I’m usually on a tight schedule. This has been a consistent pattern for me for many years, first with Wof-E and now with Too. Recently, one of my doctors told me that people who walk their dogs regularly/daily live better, more productive, and even longer lives, which, while I don’t know the source of his data, certainly sounds valuable and there is plenty of data on the benefit of walking in general (dog excluded).

As we approach 2017, going for a daily “walk” may be an excellent New Year’s resolution; however, the Apostle Paul reminds us in I Timothy 4:8 that “bodily discipline is only of little profit (which doesn’t mean no benefit), but godliness is profitable for all things.” Therefore, I’d like to challenge you to also seriously consider another “walk” this year.

In the Old Testament there is a very interesting Hebrew word, yeelkuw, translated into English as “walk” in Micah 4:5. This passage provides hope for Israel’s future restoration (including Christ’s Kingdom on earth), where two types of individuals/people are referenced. Some “walk” after their own god while others “walk” in the name of the one true Lord God. The Hebrews must, in confident reliance, stand upon God’s promises and covenant, being steadfast in preserving and participating in continuous obedience as true and faithful worshipers of their one true Lord. However, the nations around them, who were superior in power, military, and economic strength, as well as in numbers/population, continued to “walk” after their (own) many gods.

Obviously the word “walk” in these passages is referring to something other than walking the dog around the block or walking for health benefits. This “walk” is uniformly used throughout the biblical text in reference to an individual or nation’s (people group) moral and spiritual life or direction/path/lifestyle … meaning some lived in agreement with God’s statutes that guided their lives, while others lived in accordance with different/pagan views/beliefs and lifestyles.

Below are five clear examples of this concept from our Old Testament scriptures. 1) Genesis 5:22 – Enoch walked with God. 2) Isaiah 2:5 – The prophet issued a challenge to walk in the light of the Lord rather than in the ways of other pagan religions. 3) II Chronicles 17:4 – Jehoshaphat walked in the ways of David and did not seek the baals. 4) Genesis 17:1 – God Almighty (El-Shaddai) challenged Abram (Abraham) to walk before Him (in His presence, in relationship with Him) and be blameless. 5) Ezekiel 36:27 – Through His prophet, the Lord promised to put His Spirit within His people and cause them to walk according to His statutes.

The New Testament, also provides similar statements, affirmations, and encouragements:

II Corinthians 5:7 – “For we walk by faith, not by sight.”

II Corinthians 10:3-4 – “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses.”

Galatians 5:16-17 – “But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh.”

Ephesians 2:10 – “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.”

Ephesians 4:1-3 – “Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love, being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”

Ephesians 5:8-10 – “For you were formerly darkness, but now you are Light in the Lord; walk as children of Light (for the fruit of the Light consists in all goodness and righteousness and truth), trying to learn what is pleasing to the Lord.”

Seems we may all have some more walking to do! Would you like to have a different walk in 2017? Perhaps a more fruitful, productive, and beneficial walk? Based on these scriptures, and many more, I am confident that the Lord desires each of us to walk with Him. In this new year, each of us will walk … either under the influence of deceitful, lying, pagan deities/philosophies which attempt to define life, goodness, and happiness, or in a genuine relationship with Christ as one’s Saviour, friend, and Lord.

Will you choose to walk with HIM?

BETTER

Posted on March 7, 2022 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