privilege

THOUGHTS ON FREEDOM

Posted on May 10, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

Over the past 37 years (primarily ministry since I was 18, with a few years of construction company ownership and management thrown in) I’ve written innumerable articles and taught in excess of 35 lessons on freedom, liberty, independence, etc., and yet the Biblical revelation of these invigorating truths inexhaustibly continues to unfold. Christ is the only liberating agent that brings total freedom to the soul/spirit of humanity. He frees us from the bondage of sin and spiritual death, making true believers the only individuals able to volitionally respond to Him in an appropriate and affirmative manner.

While many creatures obey God simply by doing what they are created to do, or through Him directing their paths unbeknownst to them, only humans, born afresh through faith in Jesus Christ and empowered by His Holy Spirit, clearly distinguish His unique guidance as opposed to behavioral instincts, rote activities, and/or trained responses. In other words, one can get a pet or even wild animal to respond to commands by training, and they even have the opportunity to obey or not. Humans as well can be trained to respond contrary to instinct, desire, or passion.

However, the uniqueness for Christ’s disciples is that we have freedom to hear the Lord, and with clear understanding, not as a robot, surrender one’s will/purpose/agenda to His. In so doing, we freely choose to follow His desire, fully trusting His Holy Spirit to provide the wisdom, resources, and strength needed to faithfully and continuously follow.

Only freedom in Christ makes a believer independently dependent. One is granted opportunity to victoriously overcome any hold that sin, the flesh, the world, or the enemy attempts to extend, or threatens to impose into or over one’s life. Liberty in Christ means one no longer thinks or possesses the understanding, view, perspective, or even the reasoning that those without Christ arduously defend and cling to. Instead, Christ’s followers think, reason, and live independently! Way outside, above and beyond the limited understanding and precepts of unbelievers … even those considered intelligent, genius, and wise in the framework of their own system and human reasoning. That means true believers:

Are not governed by a foreign (anything other than God’s) power
Are free from the influence and control of another individual and/or philosophy
Are free to find value and purpose in things other than those determined to be important and meaningful by their culture, heritage, society, religion, worldly influences, etc.
Are free to rely on Christ (which includes His Word, His Holy Spirit, His people, and His divine institutions of family and church), rather than others for emotional, mental, physical and spiritual support and care
Are free from being dominated or controlled by “other” situations, circumstances, and or variables (known and/or unknown)

Therefore, if Christ’s followers are truly independent of all these things, then what remains? Ideally, an intent, longing desire, and even a love, to place one’s being under the control and dominance of the ultimate power and authority … the ONE who knows you best, created you, placed you in this world at the exact appointed/appropriate time (according to HIS purpose/plan) — even the ONE who sustains the universe and holds everything together.

What a privilege, what a great honor! You, along with every true believer, are eligible and pre-approved to become totally dependent upon the ONE who purchased and delivered your independence!

Quotes from Christ on a similar discussion from John 8:31-38:

If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.
Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is the slave of sin.
So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.
I speak the things which I have seen with My Father; therefore you also do the things which you heard from your father.

Are you free indeed? Think about it, and then choose freedom. I sincerely pray you become independently dependent today.

— Pastor Frank

REDEMPTION

Posted on May 10, 2022 by West Oaks Fellowship

The idea of redemption originates in the Old Testament, and is initially used when money is paid to buy back property (Leviticus 25:25-28; Ruth 4:4-6) or something which must be protected or rescued. (Numbers 3:44-51; Nehemiah 5:6-13) As the term “redemption” is repeatedly employed throughout the scriptures, it becomes a common term referencing any form or type of deliverance. God, by example, is the “Redeemer” of Israel . . . their “Deliverer.” Deuteronomy 9:26 reveals this perspective:

I prayed to the Lord and said, ‘O Lord God, do not destroy Your people, even Your inheritance, whom You have redeemed through Your greatness, whom You have brought out of Egypt with a mighty hand.

In addition, consider the point-of-view revealed in II Samuel 7:23-24:

And what one nation on the earth is like Your people Israel, whom God went to redeem for Himself as a people and to make a name for Himself, and to do a great thing for You and awesome things for Your land, before Your people whom You have redeemed for Yourself from Egypt, from nations and their gods? For You have established for Yourself Your people Israel as Your own people forever, and You, O Lord, have become their God. (also see Isaiah 52:3-6)

Ultimately, the concept of “deliverance” includes liberation from any/all forms of evil such as national misfortune (Isaiah 52:9; 63:9; compare Luke 2:36-38), plagues (Psalm 78:35, 52), and calamity of any sort (Genesis 48:16; Numbers 25:4-9). However, in general, the relationship of Israel and/with God included His claim to them (Deuteronomy 15:15), as well as an obligation to them as seen in the Psalmist’s declaration (25:22):

Redeem Israel, O God, out of all his troubles. (also see I Chronicles 17:21)

Without a doubt, Israel belonged to Him; therefore in the original, truest sense of “redemption,” He moved and worked in/with Israel as their legitimate (rightful, perhaps even somewhat legally obliged) “Redeemer.”

In the New Testament, the Greek word “apolutrosis,” translated “redemption” and/or “deliverance,” encompasses the idea of ransom.

All humanity is held under the curse:

of the law according to Galatians 3:13, “Christ redeemed us from the curse of the Law, having become a curse for us — for it is written, “CURSED IS EVERYONE WHO HANGS ON A TREE”;
of sin itself according to Romans 7:23, where Paul views himself as a “prisoner” to sin;
of death as a result of sin in Romans 6:23. In this context, and proper biblical application, the person who purchases one’s freedom or deliverance by paying a ransom is considered the/their “redeemer.”

It’s in this light that believers see Christ, the One Who purchased our freedom/deliverance by offering Himself as the entire/full payment/ransom for one’s sin. Ephesians 1:7-8 provides foundation for this perspective by declaring:

In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace which He lavished on us.

In I Peter 1:18, one sees the incomparable value of Christ’s work and deliverance:

Knowing that you were not redeemed with perishable things like silver or gold from your futile way of life inherited from your forefathers, but with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ.

As Easter 2011 approaches, perhaps a clear focus on Jesus Christ as your individual “deliverer” or “redeemer” will enhance the spiritual meaning/purpose of this season and stimulate participation. What no one else could do, Christ did for you! May we never forget the redeeming truth of Romans 8:3-4:

For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did: sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh, so that the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.

This “deliverance” wasn’t because any of us deserved it, but because Christ owns us, and He faithfully assumed the role as our “redeemer,” offering “redemption” to His most highly valued creation (those created in His own image/likeness and whom He loves – according to John 3:16-17), humanity! What a great privilege, what honor and blessing has been bestowed upon us . . . we do not have a human “redeemer” paying a ransom, but the Lord Himself fully satisfying the entire demand – permanently and eternally conquering the curse of law, sin, and death! Hallelujah!

Now, what shall we say to this redemption? How shall we respond to this humanly incomprehensible deliverance and selfless demonstration? Is there anything that compares to this rescue? If the answer is no, then please don’t view Easter as simply another holiday where you work-in some time off, visit relatives, play golf, and gather for a nice meal. No – we must not! In fact, as true believers, how can we settle into such a ridiculous gesture and call it Easter?

I’m not saying a family celebration is inappropriate, especially if that gathering is focused on the events of our Lord’s redemption (His suffering, atoning death, and victorious resurrection); however, the only fitting and suitable spiritual response for each true believer is participation in a gathering of God’s people where praise and worship is distinctly and uniquely presented to Jesus Christ our Lord in view of REDEMPTION!

As your pastor, the one who is required to protect, watch over, and feed Christ’s flock (I Peter 5:1-3), face judgment for all the activities and teachings in our fellowship (James 3:1, I Corinthians 3:10-15), and give an account for your souls (Hebrews 13:17), I assure you that WOF’s focus for this year’s Good Friday Communion (Lord’s Supper) and Easter (Resurrection Celebration) will remain steadfast and exclusively fixed upon Jesus Christ and the gracious redemption/deliverance He alone brings to humanity. However, what will you say – what will you do – what will you offer – in light (illumination and radiance) of such a great deliverance/redemption?

— Pastor Frank

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

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