Anticipation of Renewal
If only we could start over and begin anew. Sometimes, that may be possible. A pile of wadded balls of paper flowing out of the waste basket attest to the desire for fresh starts. While it may be possible to start with a clean sheet of paper when writing a letter or a novel, in many things it is simply impossible to have such an easy solution. A new beginning is a coveted commodity.
Life, for example, cannot just be scrapped so you can begin again. Those who “end it all” with a vain hope of coming back in a better form, foolishly forfeit their only opportunity to live a life of meaning. While all will suffer with mistakes and regrets, what matters is the ability to pick up and try again. It is not a new start, but the opportunity to incorporate yesterday’s lessons of failure with tomorrow’s hope and faith.
Christ came with a promise of new life, “I have come that they might have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). He did not promise that we could be born of a natural birth a second time, but the opportunity to be “born again” of the water and of the Spirit. Jesus explained the difference in the natural and the spiritual birth to Nicodemus in John 3. Jesus emphasized to him, “You must be born again!”
While we may not be able to start as a brand new baby, we have the privilege of a new life in Christ. The stark memories of the past help us to appreciate the new life afforded by God’s grace. The joy is more abundant against the backdrop of sin’s misery. The peace of His presence stands in sharp contrast to the turmoil of past conflicts. The hope for the future and the promise of everlasting life replaces the emptiness of despair over life’s futility.
Paul wrote, Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17). You can have a new beginning with a new life in Christ!
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Another Wave Rolls In!
Anticipation of Renewal
“And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, That I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, Your young men shall see visions, Your old men shall dream dreams. And on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days; And they shall prophesy” (Acts 2:17-18).
Some of my wife’s favorite places to visit are along the Pacific coast where we can watch the ocean waves cascading on the shore. On an occasional trip out of town we find ourselves heading to Half Moon Bay, Monterey, or to some other spot along the coast. These are scenes of nature that brings an awareness of God’s presence.
There is something peaceful and serene about the sound of the surf and consistency of the waves. Some of the waves crash with such force they rush far upon the beach while others shrug and gently spread out on the smooth wet sand. There seems to be a random rhythm and irregular rotation to the waves that come with such prominence. Yet, they come. The tides rise and fall; the waves ebb and flow and occasional strike with tremendous energy.
And so it is with flow of the Spirit. The waves of renewal and the surge of spiritual baptisms seem to come like the rising of the tide. When there is a flow of the Spirit and the demonstration of God’s power in evidence, it is time to dive into the depths of the wave.
There is a moving of the Spirit in our day. Many are finding a new reality in the powerful demonstration of the Spirit. Those who once resisted an emotional response to God are now embracing the fresh wave of spiritual renewal. It is time for another wave to roll in!
What we are seeing is evidence of the “last days” prophesied by Joel and preached by Peter. Allow the wave of the Spirit to engulf your life and sweep you into the midst of revival tide. Now is the time to move forward in the Spirit and believe for the greatest wave of renewal that has ever been witnessed!
“And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, That I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, Your young men shall see visions, Your old men shall dream dreams. And on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days; And they shall prophesy” (Acts 2:17-18).
Some of my wife’s favorite places to visit are along the Pacific coast where we can watch the ocean waves cascading on the shore. On an occasional trip out of town we find ourselves heading to Half Moon Bay, Monterey, or to some other spot along the coast. These are scenes of nature that brings an awareness of God’s presence.
There is something peaceful and serene about the sound of the surf and consistency of the waves. Some of the waves crash with such force they rush far upon the beach while others shrug and gently spread out on the smooth wet sand. There seems to be a random rhythm and irregular rotation to the waves that come with such prominence. Yet, they come. The tides rise and fall; the waves ebb and flow and occasional strike with tremendous energy.
And so it is with flow of the Spirit. The waves of renewal and the surge of spiritual baptisms seem to come like the rising of the tide. When there is a flow of the Spirit and the demonstration of God’s power in evidence, it is time to dive into the depths of the wave.
There is a moving of the Spirit in our day. Many are finding a new reality in the powerful demonstration of the Spirit. Those who once resisted an emotional response to God are now embracing the fresh wave of spiritual renewal. It is time for another wave to roll in!
What we are seeing is evidence of the “last days” prophesied by Joel and preached by Peter. Allow the wave of the Spirit to engulf your life and sweep you into the midst of revival tide. Now is the time to move forward in the Spirit and believe for the greatest wave of renewal that has ever been witnessed!
Friday, August 15, 2008
Leadership through Discipleship #28
Aquila and Pricilla, The Power of Team Ministry
“Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who risked their own necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. Likewise greet the church that is in their house” (Romans 16:3-5).
Two Jewish tentmakers traveled from Rome to Corinth seeking a new beginning. They were expelled from Rome under the command of Claudius who began his own version of ethnic cleansing requiring all Jews to leave the city. These tentmakers were a husband and wife team named Aquila and Priscilla. Their common occupation brought them into an acquaintance with the Apostle Paul who stayed with them and worked his trade for a while in Corinth (Acts 18:2-3).
While it is unclear if this married couple were converted to become followers of Christ at the beginning, it is obvious that they came to faith either before or during the time of Paul’s association with them. Their friendship and mutual faith caused them to travel together for Syria (Acts 18:18). Paul left them in Ephesus while he returned to Jerusalem.
These events caused Priscilla and Aquila to be in Ephesus when Apollos, the Alexandrian Jew, came to town teaching in the public synagogue. Priscilla and Aquila listened to him, determined that he had limited knowledge of Jesus, and purposed to enlighten him in the faith of Jesus Christ. Working together they accomplished a great ministry. They are credited with the conversion and discipleship of Apollos. Their success was evident, because when Apollos left the city it was noted that “he vigorously refuted the Jews publicly, showing from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ” (Acts 18:28).
These passionate disciples of Christ are mentioned six times in Scripture, and always together. Half of the references place Aquila first; the other three mention Priscilla initially. So integrated is their work and ministry they are always spoken of in tandem. They hosted a church in their house. Paul commended them as fellow workers, courageous enough that they risked their own safety for the life of Paul, and were the object of his sincere thanksgiving (Romans 16:3-5).
While there are a number of women mentioned in the New Testament, both as prophetesses and those involved in other ministries in the early church, none are more prominent than Priscilla, who worked consistently at the side of her husband, Aquila. Even today many women have achieved a higher level of success in ministry as they work as a team with their husbands. Women in ministry are often more accepted by the larger church body in the context of a team ministry. Though it is not required that a woman be married to be involved in ministry, the record of this dynamic team ministry certainly gives credibility to the team approach.
“Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who risked their own necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. Likewise greet the church that is in their house” (Romans 16:3-5).
Two Jewish tentmakers traveled from Rome to Corinth seeking a new beginning. They were expelled from Rome under the command of Claudius who began his own version of ethnic cleansing requiring all Jews to leave the city. These tentmakers were a husband and wife team named Aquila and Priscilla. Their common occupation brought them into an acquaintance with the Apostle Paul who stayed with them and worked his trade for a while in Corinth (Acts 18:2-3).
While it is unclear if this married couple were converted to become followers of Christ at the beginning, it is obvious that they came to faith either before or during the time of Paul’s association with them. Their friendship and mutual faith caused them to travel together for Syria (Acts 18:18). Paul left them in Ephesus while he returned to Jerusalem.
These events caused Priscilla and Aquila to be in Ephesus when Apollos, the Alexandrian Jew, came to town teaching in the public synagogue. Priscilla and Aquila listened to him, determined that he had limited knowledge of Jesus, and purposed to enlighten him in the faith of Jesus Christ. Working together they accomplished a great ministry. They are credited with the conversion and discipleship of Apollos. Their success was evident, because when Apollos left the city it was noted that “he vigorously refuted the Jews publicly, showing from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ” (Acts 18:28).
These passionate disciples of Christ are mentioned six times in Scripture, and always together. Half of the references place Aquila first; the other three mention Priscilla initially. So integrated is their work and ministry they are always spoken of in tandem. They hosted a church in their house. Paul commended them as fellow workers, courageous enough that they risked their own safety for the life of Paul, and were the object of his sincere thanksgiving (Romans 16:3-5).
While there are a number of women mentioned in the New Testament, both as prophetesses and those involved in other ministries in the early church, none are more prominent than Priscilla, who worked consistently at the side of her husband, Aquila. Even today many women have achieved a higher level of success in ministry as they work as a team with their husbands. Women in ministry are often more accepted by the larger church body in the context of a team ministry. Though it is not required that a woman be married to be involved in ministry, the record of this dynamic team ministry certainly gives credibility to the team approach.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Leadership through Discipleship #27
James, Son of Alphaeus, The Power of Anonymity
“Nor did we seek glory from men, either from you or from others, when we might have made demands as apostles of Christ” (1 Thessalonians 2:6).
James, the son of Alphaeus, was one of the Twelve, one of the disciples of Jesus. He is mentioned in four passages of Scripture, always in the ninth position in the lists of the disciples (Mt. 10:3; Mk. 3:18; Lk. 6:15; and Ac. 1:13). We have no record of anything outstanding in his life. There is no quote or question attributed to this disciple. He is always just one of “the Twelve.” He is neither outspoken advocate or background betrayer. He is simply a disciple of the Lord, called, committed and constant.
In our culture, success is often equated with notoriety. For one to be successful he should also be well known. The mention of his or her name should bring a nod of recognition, an association with accomplishment. Fortunately, being famous is not one of the requirements of Christian discipleship. Rather, the Scripture elevates the virtues of meekness, submission, and preferring others rather than seeking glory for oneself.
Today, James, the son of Alphaeus, would be instructed by a public relations specialist that he should be more assertive. He should let people know that he is associated with Jesus of Nazareth. He would be told to build his network. Expand his resume. Consider a publicist. After all, if you want to be remembered right up there with Peter, John, and (oh yeah) the other James you will have to get your name noticed. (The sons of Zebedee are always getting the spotlight!)
Being a discipleship leader is recognizing that it is about Jesus, not about us. Our success is making sure people know Him, not us. A discipleship leader becomes a success by doing the will of God, not by achieving notoriety.
Fame will come to few in the kingdom of God. Paul cautioned, “For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence” (1 Corinthians 1:26-29).
Paul never sought notoriety. It came to him but with it the pain of persecution. It was his passion and should be ours to declare Jesus Christ alone. Paul said, “And I, brethren, when I came to you, did not come with excellence of speech or of wisdom declaring to you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified. I was with you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God” (1 Corinthians 2:1-5).
One can be a fervent follower of Christ and never be noticed. It is possible to be a discipleship leader and never receive recognition or acclaim! Just follow Him!
“Nor did we seek glory from men, either from you or from others, when we might have made demands as apostles of Christ” (1 Thessalonians 2:6).
James, the son of Alphaeus, was one of the Twelve, one of the disciples of Jesus. He is mentioned in four passages of Scripture, always in the ninth position in the lists of the disciples (Mt. 10:3; Mk. 3:18; Lk. 6:15; and Ac. 1:13). We have no record of anything outstanding in his life. There is no quote or question attributed to this disciple. He is always just one of “the Twelve.” He is neither outspoken advocate or background betrayer. He is simply a disciple of the Lord, called, committed and constant.
In our culture, success is often equated with notoriety. For one to be successful he should also be well known. The mention of his or her name should bring a nod of recognition, an association with accomplishment. Fortunately, being famous is not one of the requirements of Christian discipleship. Rather, the Scripture elevates the virtues of meekness, submission, and preferring others rather than seeking glory for oneself.
Today, James, the son of Alphaeus, would be instructed by a public relations specialist that he should be more assertive. He should let people know that he is associated with Jesus of Nazareth. He would be told to build his network. Expand his resume. Consider a publicist. After all, if you want to be remembered right up there with Peter, John, and (oh yeah) the other James you will have to get your name noticed. (The sons of Zebedee are always getting the spotlight!)
Being a discipleship leader is recognizing that it is about Jesus, not about us. Our success is making sure people know Him, not us. A discipleship leader becomes a success by doing the will of God, not by achieving notoriety.
Fame will come to few in the kingdom of God. Paul cautioned, “For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence” (1 Corinthians 1:26-29).
Paul never sought notoriety. It came to him but with it the pain of persecution. It was his passion and should be ours to declare Jesus Christ alone. Paul said, “And I, brethren, when I came to you, did not come with excellence of speech or of wisdom declaring to you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified. I was with you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God” (1 Corinthians 2:1-5).
One can be a fervent follower of Christ and never be noticed. It is possible to be a discipleship leader and never receive recognition or acclaim! Just follow Him!
Friday, August 1, 2008
Leadership through Discipleship #26
James, the brother of Jesus, The Power of Works
“What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? … For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also” (James 2:14, 26).
James, the brother of Jesus, added his inspired writing to the canon of Scripture. Prominent in the wisdom of the book is a challenge to bring action into our discipleship. His practical approach to Christian living brings fresh reality to those who deal in the theoretical. He states that you can’t be one who just hears the teaching of Christ without a proper response. Of what value is it to hear His teaching and life-altering message and do nothing about it? We must be “hearers” of the word, but also “doers” of the word!
Faith is an action word, a verb as well as a noun. It is something we possess, but must also be something we live out. Our faith is demonstrated by a life of service, by acts of kindness, and by freely sharing our love in practical actions. James stressed the absurdity of those who hear but do nothing in response.
There is a promise of blessing to those who initiate action based upon the Scriptural teaching they receive. James said that one who “is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does” (1:25). A discipleship leader will live out the message of Christ in his or her life.
In the second chapter of the book of James there are further instructions concerning the action of faith. He posed questions that we should ask: Is faith valid without action? One can say “I believe,” but if he does not act accordingly, does he indeed have faith? James used the illustration of a brother or sister who is hungry and unclothed. He asks a rhetorical question, “If one of you says to them, ‘Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,’ but do not give him the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit?” (James 2:16). The answer was so obvious it did not need to be stated. So he said, “Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead” (vs. 17).
We are not “saved by works” but in our effort to demonstrate grace, often works have been neglected and we miss the blessing that comes from obedient action. To truly have faith one must act upon it. If we believe we would be saved from a burning house we must run from the flames to the voice and outstretched hands of the rescuer. Obedience to the voice of the Savior will produce deliverance and blessing.
“What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? … For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also” (James 2:14, 26).
James, the brother of Jesus, added his inspired writing to the canon of Scripture. Prominent in the wisdom of the book is a challenge to bring action into our discipleship. His practical approach to Christian living brings fresh reality to those who deal in the theoretical. He states that you can’t be one who just hears the teaching of Christ without a proper response. Of what value is it to hear His teaching and life-altering message and do nothing about it? We must be “hearers” of the word, but also “doers” of the word!
Faith is an action word, a verb as well as a noun. It is something we possess, but must also be something we live out. Our faith is demonstrated by a life of service, by acts of kindness, and by freely sharing our love in practical actions. James stressed the absurdity of those who hear but do nothing in response.
There is a promise of blessing to those who initiate action based upon the Scriptural teaching they receive. James said that one who “is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does” (1:25). A discipleship leader will live out the message of Christ in his or her life.
In the second chapter of the book of James there are further instructions concerning the action of faith. He posed questions that we should ask: Is faith valid without action? One can say “I believe,” but if he does not act accordingly, does he indeed have faith? James used the illustration of a brother or sister who is hungry and unclothed. He asks a rhetorical question, “If one of you says to them, ‘Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,’ but do not give him the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit?” (James 2:16). The answer was so obvious it did not need to be stated. So he said, “Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead” (vs. 17).
We are not “saved by works” but in our effort to demonstrate grace, often works have been neglected and we miss the blessing that comes from obedient action. To truly have faith one must act upon it. If we believe we would be saved from a burning house we must run from the flames to the voice and outstretched hands of the rescuer. Obedience to the voice of the Savior will produce deliverance and blessing.
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