Esther 3:1 - 15
Evil is a part of every one of our lives and is a theme that goes right through the book of Esther. In this section, we see it rear its ugly head in a very real and evident way - the plot of Haman to eradicate the Jewish people. Whilst we might say that this evil comes about only because of Haman, we need to look deeper to see the way that the characters in the story, and we ourselves are all responsible for the evil in this world. In Job 14:1 Job admits, “mortals, born of woman are of few days and full of trouble.” He goes on to ask, “who can bring what is pure from the impure?” (Job 14:4).
There is a long running feud between Haman as a Agagite and Mordecai as a Jew (see 1 Samuel 15 for the origins of this feud). This unresolved conflict has become exaggerated. Mordecai acts in unreasonable ways and it leads to a disproportional response on behalf of Haman. We need to consider how our unresolved conflict with others, our long term prejudices and even attitudes that we have inherited allow us to introduce evil into this world.
Xerxes allows evil to occur not through what he does, but through what he doesn't do. In giving his signet ring to Haman and saying "do what you want" he abdicates his responsibility. We need to explore our actions and ask where we're looking the other way and refusing to act when we should be taking a stand for justice, on behalf of the weak and powerless.
Finally, the unnamed court officials who dob on Mordecai for not bowing to Haman introduce evil. There is a blurred line between telling someone something they need to know and telling them something we want them to know. We need to make sure that we're not passing on stories for the sake of our own entertainment, but that we're seeking the best for the person we're speaking to.
Evil is always going to be a reality in this broken world. That's why we wait in this period of Advent for the return of the king who will bring about a new heaven and earth that is free of evil. Until then, as new creations in Jesus Christ, we have the Holy Spirit who leads us to holiness, where we say no to evil and yes to the good of God.
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Monday, November 22, 2010
Expect the Unexpected
Esther 2:1 - 18
One of the sub themes that appears in the book of Esther is that of power and powerlessness. In Xerxes need to find a new queen, we are shown the raw power of the king, that disrupts families, and the powerlessness of girls like Esther to stop him. Despite what appears to a massive power imbalance, by the end of the story, it is Esther who is the powerful one and Xerxes plays to her tune. What brings about this change? The unseen presence of God, who acts in ways that we can never expect.
The theme of power and powerlessness applies to our world today. What are those instances of injustice, and oppression that can leave you feeling despondent and believing that nothing will ever change? When we align with God he is able to work through us and bring about change the upsets the powers of injustice in this world.
One of the sub themes that appears in the book of Esther is that of power and powerlessness. In Xerxes need to find a new queen, we are shown the raw power of the king, that disrupts families, and the powerlessness of girls like Esther to stop him. Despite what appears to a massive power imbalance, by the end of the story, it is Esther who is the powerful one and Xerxes plays to her tune. What brings about this change? The unseen presence of God, who acts in ways that we can never expect.
The theme of power and powerlessness applies to our world today. What are those instances of injustice, and oppression that can leave you feeling despondent and believing that nothing will ever change? When we align with God he is able to work through us and bring about change the upsets the powers of injustice in this world.
Monday, November 15, 2010
The unseen presence of God
Esther 1:1 - 1:22
For a book that sits within the Christian bible, the book of Esther is fairly unusual. Not once is God mentioned, and the characters, both Jewish and non-Jewish sit comfortably in a secular society where God is not named and the people seem to be indifferent to him. Esther therefore has a lot to say to people in 21st century Australia. Both Christian and pre-Christian people, too often see to be unaware and unconnected with God in our daily lives.
The overarching theme of Esther is that this unnamed and apparently unconnected God is active throughout bringing salvation to his people. The marvellous thing about God in this book is that whilst he works to bring about his people, he does it through the invidual actions and choices of the characters. There are no great miracles like in Daniel.
Through the characters in Esther we can learn that God is present in the places where we might never think to look.
Xerxes shows us that God is present in our stupidity - no decision that we make is bad enough that God can't bring his good out of it.
Vashti shows us that God is present in the silence. When we are surrounded by noise, and prefer that God speak to us directly, sometimes we need to still ourselves so that we can find God in the silence.
Mordecai shows us that God uses coincidences. What we may see as unrelated events in our lives, can be drawn together to fulfil God's plan, we need to be willing to act when God prompts.
Esther shows us that God uses our brokenness. We see value in strenght, but God uses our weakness.
Haman shows us that God uses our enemies. We need to ask what we can learn from our enemies and how they can help us grow in grace and as children of God.
For a book that sits within the Christian bible, the book of Esther is fairly unusual. Not once is God mentioned, and the characters, both Jewish and non-Jewish sit comfortably in a secular society where God is not named and the people seem to be indifferent to him. Esther therefore has a lot to say to people in 21st century Australia. Both Christian and pre-Christian people, too often see to be unaware and unconnected with God in our daily lives.
The overarching theme of Esther is that this unnamed and apparently unconnected God is active throughout bringing salvation to his people. The marvellous thing about God in this book is that whilst he works to bring about his people, he does it through the invidual actions and choices of the characters. There are no great miracles like in Daniel.
Through the characters in Esther we can learn that God is present in the places where we might never think to look.
Xerxes shows us that God is present in our stupidity - no decision that we make is bad enough that God can't bring his good out of it.
Vashti shows us that God is present in the silence. When we are surrounded by noise, and prefer that God speak to us directly, sometimes we need to still ourselves so that we can find God in the silence.
Mordecai shows us that God uses coincidences. What we may see as unrelated events in our lives, can be drawn together to fulfil God's plan, we need to be willing to act when God prompts.
Esther shows us that God uses our brokenness. We see value in strenght, but God uses our weakness.
Haman shows us that God uses our enemies. We need to ask what we can learn from our enemies and how they can help us grow in grace and as children of God.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Lament
Haggai 1:15b - 2:9
This Sunday we explored the ancient concept of lament. Lament is a cry of utter helplessness to God, where we name the misery of our current circumstances. As individuals and a church there is much that we would say is not what we want it to be. Too often we want to hide from the harshness of our present reality. But lament is the very opposite of denial. It involves naming our presnet reality and giving ourselves the permission to grieve. We don't do this well in our western society. We want to maintain a stiff upper lip, and pretend that everything is alright, but things are not always right for us and for others.
Lament though is not about wallowing in misery. The upside of lament is that we also name the hope that we have in Jesus Christ. Through him we have an assurance that things will be restored, that what is broken will be restored, and that the best is always yet to come.
This Sunday we explored the ancient concept of lament. Lament is a cry of utter helplessness to God, where we name the misery of our current circumstances. As individuals and a church there is much that we would say is not what we want it to be. Too often we want to hide from the harshness of our present reality. But lament is the very opposite of denial. It involves naming our presnet reality and giving ourselves the permission to grieve. We don't do this well in our western society. We want to maintain a stiff upper lip, and pretend that everything is alright, but things are not always right for us and for others.
Lament though is not about wallowing in misery. The upside of lament is that we also name the hope that we have in Jesus Christ. Through him we have an assurance that things will be restored, that what is broken will be restored, and that the best is always yet to come.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Raising great kids
Deuteronomy 6:1 - 9
In a classic passage on passing on the faith, two things stand out for me this week. The first is that Moses instructs us to live out our faith in God, as a means of being a model for our children in growing in faith. "Don't do as I say, do as I do" is such an appropriate way for us to live and witness to our children. Secondly, raising children in the faith is not just for their parents. It will also be the primary responsibility of parents. But grandparents, youth group leaders, Sunday School teachers and all members of the church have a responsibility to live out their faith and witness to our children.
In raising children in the faith, there are five things we should teach our children to value:
In a classic passage on passing on the faith, two things stand out for me this week. The first is that Moses instructs us to live out our faith in God, as a means of being a model for our children in growing in faith. "Don't do as I say, do as I do" is such an appropriate way for us to live and witness to our children. Secondly, raising children in the faith is not just for their parents. It will also be the primary responsibility of parents. But grandparents, youth group leaders, Sunday School teachers and all members of the church have a responsibility to live out their faith and witness to our children.
In raising children in the faith, there are five things we should teach our children to value:
- their faith in Jesus Christ as lord and saviour;
- their family as the source of unconditional love and acceptance;
- themselves as someone uniquely made in the image and likeness of God;
- other people, especially those who are needy or vulnerable;
- the old and the new, finding the creative spot between innovation and tradition.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Core Values
Core Values are the values of Jesus Christ that are considered the most worthy and important for our congregation. They define why we do what we do and drive the ministry of the congregation. Being able to name, own and express our Core Values has the power to give our congregation and its members alignment in what we do, to identify what is distinctive about our congregation, to communicate what we think is important, to give us a positive direction through change, to influence our behavior, inspire us to action, shape our ministry character and affect our strategic planning. On the other hand, not being clear about our Core Values does lead to confusion, conflict, poor choices and indecision.
A healthy church discerns and clearly communicates a clear, concise and shared set of Core Values, so that everyone understands and can contribute. This is the process that we are in at the moment.
About five years ago, the following statement of Core Values was drawn up.
• A community of love, acceptance and forgiveness
• Dynamic worship of God in our services
• Reaching lost people in our community, helping them develop a personal relationship with Christ
• Spiritual growth via small group communities
• Ministry involvement, unleashing the gifts in people to help them grow through serving others.
Please read it and please comment on your reaction to it.
Please also consider how well these reflect our congregation at the moment.
A healthy church discerns and clearly communicates a clear, concise and shared set of Core Values, so that everyone understands and can contribute. This is the process that we are in at the moment.
About five years ago, the following statement of Core Values was drawn up.
• A community of love, acceptance and forgiveness
• Dynamic worship of God in our services
• Reaching lost people in our community, helping them develop a personal relationship with Christ
• Spiritual growth via small group communities
• Ministry involvement, unleashing the gifts in people to help them grow through serving others.
Please read it and please comment on your reaction to it.
Please also consider how well these reflect our congregation at the moment.
Monday, October 4, 2010
The Discipline of worship
John 4:7- 26
One of the great and enduring debates of Australian society revolves around which is the iconic, classic Australian car - Ford or Holden. A similar debate exists within churches, and that revolves around the style of worship. Throughout the history of the church we have been conflicted about what is appropriate and what is not appropriate. When ultimately, like the debate about cars, worship is just a vehicle to get us to a destination. If we want to get to the destination badly enough, we'll use any vehicle (including an Hyundai).
Our corporate worship services are different, because they reflect the diversity of our people, and we have the choice to choose a preference. But each service needs to take us to a destination. That destination is a greater sense of the awe and wonder of the greatness of God, a renewed sense of his unconditional grace and the ongoing transformation by the Holy Spirit so that we may continue to live as Christ followers, pursuing God's mission in the world.
To reach this destination we need to ensure that we prepare ourselves for worship, before the service starts. During the service we actively participate in each element of worship, not being observers, there to be entertained, by co-workers in giving God that which is due to him. Finally, we leave the service transformed to continue our walk with Jesus.
Worship helps shrink our magnificent egos so that there is more room for the Holy Spirit to work in our souls.
How do you see worship fitting into your spiritual disciplines?
One of the great and enduring debates of Australian society revolves around which is the iconic, classic Australian car - Ford or Holden. A similar debate exists within churches, and that revolves around the style of worship. Throughout the history of the church we have been conflicted about what is appropriate and what is not appropriate. When ultimately, like the debate about cars, worship is just a vehicle to get us to a destination. If we want to get to the destination badly enough, we'll use any vehicle (including an Hyundai).
Our corporate worship services are different, because they reflect the diversity of our people, and we have the choice to choose a preference. But each service needs to take us to a destination. That destination is a greater sense of the awe and wonder of the greatness of God, a renewed sense of his unconditional grace and the ongoing transformation by the Holy Spirit so that we may continue to live as Christ followers, pursuing God's mission in the world.
To reach this destination we need to ensure that we prepare ourselves for worship, before the service starts. During the service we actively participate in each element of worship, not being observers, there to be entertained, by co-workers in giving God that which is due to him. Finally, we leave the service transformed to continue our walk with Jesus.
Worship helps shrink our magnificent egos so that there is more room for the Holy Spirit to work in our souls.
How do you see worship fitting into your spiritual disciplines?
Monday, September 20, 2010
Giving with thanks
Luke 17:11 - 19
Saying thank you is something that we need to learn from a young age, it doens't come naturally, and we need to practice it repeatedly for it to become an ingrained habit. But all too often, we find that people don't take time to say thank you. One of the reasons I think this is the case is that they believe they have a right or entitlement to something, and therefore that avoids the need to be grateful. Is one of the reasons why the nine lepers didn't return, because they believed they had a right to health? The tenth leper though was different. He returned to give thanks. But he just didn't give thanks, his relationship with Jesus changed. Prior to his healing he stood at a distance, after his healing he lay at Jesus' feet. The leper who had been an outcast from society and God, is now brought near into intimate, close relationship.
The Samaritan leper turned back from going his own way, from self-justification, from the protection of distance, and lay at Jesus' feet. And there he proclaimed his ultimate dependence on God. In the end, gratitude is an expression of our need for others, of our need for God.
When we have an attitude of gratitude we will recognise that we are connected to God and each other. This is expressed through our willingness to give thanks and through our giving of our offerings.
Saying thank you is something that we need to learn from a young age, it doens't come naturally, and we need to practice it repeatedly for it to become an ingrained habit. But all too often, we find that people don't take time to say thank you. One of the reasons I think this is the case is that they believe they have a right or entitlement to something, and therefore that avoids the need to be grateful. Is one of the reasons why the nine lepers didn't return, because they believed they had a right to health? The tenth leper though was different. He returned to give thanks. But he just didn't give thanks, his relationship with Jesus changed. Prior to his healing he stood at a distance, after his healing he lay at Jesus' feet. The leper who had been an outcast from society and God, is now brought near into intimate, close relationship.
The Samaritan leper turned back from going his own way, from self-justification, from the protection of distance, and lay at Jesus' feet. And there he proclaimed his ultimate dependence on God. In the end, gratitude is an expression of our need for others, of our need for God.
When we have an attitude of gratitude we will recognise that we are connected to God and each other. This is expressed through our willingness to give thanks and through our giving of our offerings.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Giving what is not ours
Deuteronomy 26:1 - 11
In an episode of MASH, Hawkeye allows Radar to borrow a record player that belongs to Charles, without Charles being aware that his property is being lent. Hawkeye makes the comment "gee it's easy being generous with other people's things." This is the sentiment that lies behind the first fruits offering that the Israelites were required to give. In a liturgical action, the ancient Israelites are combining an action that demonstrates their response to God's provision (the handing up of the first fruits) and remembering the provision of God throughout their history (reciting the litany). Combined, this action and words reinforce for the Israelites the relationship they have with God. This relationship is characterised by a proper recognition between the creator and the created, the relationship between the provider and the grateful recipient and the relationship of trust on the provision of God.
This reading adds to our understanding of the complexity of what is involved in giving our offering. In giving generously to the mission of God through Emmanuel Uniting Church, in part we are declaring that who we are and what we have is God's, to be used for his worship and mission. The idea of tithing (giving a fixed proportion of our income, in the Old Testament between 10% and 23%) provides an objective means of determining the level of returning to God what is ultimately his.
In an episode of MASH, Hawkeye allows Radar to borrow a record player that belongs to Charles, without Charles being aware that his property is being lent. Hawkeye makes the comment "gee it's easy being generous with other people's things." This is the sentiment that lies behind the first fruits offering that the Israelites were required to give. In a liturgical action, the ancient Israelites are combining an action that demonstrates their response to God's provision (the handing up of the first fruits) and remembering the provision of God throughout their history (reciting the litany). Combined, this action and words reinforce for the Israelites the relationship they have with God. This relationship is characterised by a proper recognition between the creator and the created, the relationship between the provider and the grateful recipient and the relationship of trust on the provision of God.
This reading adds to our understanding of the complexity of what is involved in giving our offering. In giving generously to the mission of God through Emmanuel Uniting Church, in part we are declaring that who we are and what we have is God's, to be used for his worship and mission. The idea of tithing (giving a fixed proportion of our income, in the Old Testament between 10% and 23%) provides an objective means of determining the level of returning to God what is ultimately his.
Monday, September 6, 2010
Live to give generously
2 Corinthians 9:6 - 15
One of the key spiritual disciplines is the discpline of giving our money to God. Paul encourages us to sow generously into the mission and work of God. In writing this part of his letter, he is seeking to give encouragement to the Corinthians to maintain their giving to the needs of the Christians in Jerusalem, after the impressive start they had had. However, he writes to encourage them to give from the basis of the grace and blessings given by God, not from the basis of guilt.
This should be the starting point for our giving too. The life we live is always a response to the life of Christ - we love because he first loved us, we forgive as we have been forgiven, we serve because Christ first served us.
The offering that we give builds into the ministry of Christ through this congregation. Our offering provides for ministry staff, building upkeep and funds for mission in our local area and across Australia and overseas. We give so that God's work may be carried out.
In the coming weeks, please ask yourself how your offering contributes to God's work through Emmanuel Uniting Church. Consider the ways that you are sowing generously so that there will be a generous reaping in God's kingdom.
One of the key spiritual disciplines is the discpline of giving our money to God. Paul encourages us to sow generously into the mission and work of God. In writing this part of his letter, he is seeking to give encouragement to the Corinthians to maintain their giving to the needs of the Christians in Jerusalem, after the impressive start they had had. However, he writes to encourage them to give from the basis of the grace and blessings given by God, not from the basis of guilt.
This should be the starting point for our giving too. The life we live is always a response to the life of Christ - we love because he first loved us, we forgive as we have been forgiven, we serve because Christ first served us.
The offering that we give builds into the ministry of Christ through this congregation. Our offering provides for ministry staff, building upkeep and funds for mission in our local area and across Australia and overseas. We give so that God's work may be carried out.
In the coming weeks, please ask yourself how your offering contributes to God's work through Emmanuel Uniting Church. Consider the ways that you are sowing generously so that there will be a generous reaping in God's kingdom.
Monday, August 30, 2010
Raising great families
Genesis 2:18 - 25
Amongst many things the creation story reminds us that God's plan for humanity includes relationships with other people, most particularly within the confines of a family relationship. When families are acting the way God intends for them, they can offer the very best of relationships. Families can offer their members deep love, unconditional acceptance, unswerving allegiance and absolute support. But for this to be requires that each family member, at each stage of the family's life, needs to be intentionally acting to make the family great. Three ways in which this can happen is through:
In our congregation there are already many families that do things that help make their families great. What are some of the things that you do?
Amongst many things the creation story reminds us that God's plan for humanity includes relationships with other people, most particularly within the confines of a family relationship. When families are acting the way God intends for them, they can offer the very best of relationships. Families can offer their members deep love, unconditional acceptance, unswerving allegiance and absolute support. But for this to be requires that each family member, at each stage of the family's life, needs to be intentionally acting to make the family great. Three ways in which this can happen is through:
- Spending quality time together and lots of it - families need to be around each other often, having fun times, sharing experiences, creating memories for the future.
- Expressing love - where feelings and words are placed in action. In Ephesian 5:21 Paul starts his household code by telling each family member to submit to each other. Deep love in a family is found when each person humbles themselves before the other in love, service and honour.
- Honouring God - great families are united in their allegiance to Jesus Christ, find their values shaped by scripture and share a common purpose and destiny. In Ephesians 6:4 Paul reminds fathers that it is their responsibility to raise their children in the faith of Jesus Christ.
In our congregation there are already many families that do things that help make their families great. What are some of the things that you do?
Monday, August 16, 2010
Grander Vision Living
Luke 5:1 - 11
Any fisher person, amateur or professional, would have to be ecstatic about the catch of fish that Peter and his mates caught after they listened to Jesus and lowered their nets. But the great irony of this story, is that Jesus calls them to fish for something even greater and more important and that has a longer lasting impact. This is to fish for people. The call that Jesus makes to the disciples and us, is a call to a larger vision of what life can be like.
In our relationship with Jesus we experience love, peace, joy and hope, we have a promise of the hungry being fed, the homeless finding shelter and justice being offered for all. But for people to experience this life, and for this life to be seen by all, they need to be invited into a life transforming relationship with Jesus Christ.
This requires a commitment and passion on behalf of Christ followers, to live with a priority for other people. The call to fish for people is the call to place as our top priority being people who walk across rooms, develop friendships, discover stories, discern next steps and dare to believe that people will come to faith in Jesus Christ.
But it all starts with us having the passion and commitment to place loving people into the kingdom as our top priority.
Any fisher person, amateur or professional, would have to be ecstatic about the catch of fish that Peter and his mates caught after they listened to Jesus and lowered their nets. But the great irony of this story, is that Jesus calls them to fish for something even greater and more important and that has a longer lasting impact. This is to fish for people. The call that Jesus makes to the disciples and us, is a call to a larger vision of what life can be like.
In our relationship with Jesus we experience love, peace, joy and hope, we have a promise of the hungry being fed, the homeless finding shelter and justice being offered for all. But for people to experience this life, and for this life to be seen by all, they need to be invited into a life transforming relationship with Jesus Christ.
This requires a commitment and passion on behalf of Christ followers, to live with a priority for other people. The call to fish for people is the call to place as our top priority being people who walk across rooms, develop friendships, discover stories, discern next steps and dare to believe that people will come to faith in Jesus Christ.
But it all starts with us having the passion and commitment to place loving people into the kingdom as our top priority.
Monday, August 9, 2010
The Power of story
John 5:31 - 47
As we continue with our Just Walk Across the Room story we think this week about the power of story. We each have a story to tell about our relationship with God and his invovlment in this world and our lives. Becasue our friends are interested in us, they are interested in our stories. For this reason we need to be able to tell our stories with passion, clarity, and honesty. Our stories can be used to shine light onto Jesus in a way that discussion about doctrine will never be able to. Stories have the capactiy to draw people in and see themselves in the picture and the application for their lives.
This is why it is important for us to be able to share the story of how we came to faith. Based on Paul's testimony in Acts 26, we see a three fold structure for telling our faith story. What we were like before we knew Christ (verses 4 - 11), how we came to know and acknowledge him as lord and saviour (verses 12 - 18) and then how you are different after you committed to Jesus (verses 19 - 23). In our groups this week we will spend time working on this story. I encourage you to make the effort and be able to tell the story of your encounter with Jesus.
As we continue with our Just Walk Across the Room story we think this week about the power of story. We each have a story to tell about our relationship with God and his invovlment in this world and our lives. Becasue our friends are interested in us, they are interested in our stories. For this reason we need to be able to tell our stories with passion, clarity, and honesty. Our stories can be used to shine light onto Jesus in a way that discussion about doctrine will never be able to. Stories have the capactiy to draw people in and see themselves in the picture and the application for their lives.
This is why it is important for us to be able to share the story of how we came to faith. Based on Paul's testimony in Acts 26, we see a three fold structure for telling our faith story. What we were like before we knew Christ (verses 4 - 11), how we came to know and acknowledge him as lord and saviour (verses 12 - 18) and then how you are different after you committed to Jesus (verses 19 - 23). In our groups this week we will spend time working on this story. I encourage you to make the effort and be able to tell the story of your encounter with Jesus.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Living in 4D
Luke 15:1 - 10
In the second week of our Just Walk Across the Room series, we look at the need to live in 4 D.
Dare to believe - to overcome some of our cynicism and hopelessness because we haven't seen the power of God at work in people that we've been praying for and hoping that they will come to faith, we need to continue to have faith, trusting only in God. This means daring to believe that God will act in people's lives to bring them into relationship with him. Daring to believe that lost people matter to God. Daring to believe that small steps are important. Daring to believe that God wants to use us, regardless of how insecure or inadequate we think we are.
Develop friendships - Jesus spent time with people who were not yet his followers. It was the only way he could increase the number of people who heard his message and committed to him. As his followers we need to break out of our church circles and connect with people who are not yet Christians.
Discover stories - everyone has a story, by listening to other people we find out more about them, what is important to them, and we find things that we have in common. Listening to others respects them and deepens friendships.
Discern next steps - listening to the Spirit is crucial in any evangelism. Jesus promises to be with us always to tell us when to speak, act and walk, and when not to.
In John 21 Jesus questions Peter about his love for him. In this interplay, we learn that our love for Jesus is expressed in our love for others. The challenge that lies before us is to take care of Jesus' sheep who are lost.
When you think of living your life in 4D, which of these dimensions do you find the hardest?
In the second week of our Just Walk Across the Room series, we look at the need to live in 4 D.
Dare to believe - to overcome some of our cynicism and hopelessness because we haven't seen the power of God at work in people that we've been praying for and hoping that they will come to faith, we need to continue to have faith, trusting only in God. This means daring to believe that God will act in people's lives to bring them into relationship with him. Daring to believe that lost people matter to God. Daring to believe that small steps are important. Daring to believe that God wants to use us, regardless of how insecure or inadequate we think we are.
Develop friendships - Jesus spent time with people who were not yet his followers. It was the only way he could increase the number of people who heard his message and committed to him. As his followers we need to break out of our church circles and connect with people who are not yet Christians.
Discover stories - everyone has a story, by listening to other people we find out more about them, what is important to them, and we find things that we have in common. Listening to others respects them and deepens friendships.
Discern next steps - listening to the Spirit is crucial in any evangelism. Jesus promises to be with us always to tell us when to speak, act and walk, and when not to.
In John 21 Jesus questions Peter about his love for him. In this interplay, we learn that our love for Jesus is expressed in our love for others. The challenge that lies before us is to take care of Jesus' sheep who are lost.
When you think of living your life in 4D, which of these dimensions do you find the hardest?
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Just walk across the room - The greatest gift
Luke 5:27 - 32
As we start our series called Just Walk Across the Room, we're reminded that God himself was the first room crosser. Throughout history, in the stories of Adam and Eve, Abraham and Sarah, Moses and the Israelites God has come close to his people and acted so that they may live in a close and loving relationship with him. Whilst we continued to rejected him, he made the ultimate crossing of a room and entered our time and space as a human. The birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus is the greatest news that we can ever receive. Knowing that Christ has saved us and brings us new life, changes us now and forever and gives us the motivation to cross rooms and share our faiht withe others.
The metaphor to Just Walk Across the Room helps reminds us of how we can move from a circle of comfort where we're with our friends, to a place where we can contact others, connect with them in a deeper way and communicate the good news of Jesus with them. All the time praying that the inspiration of the Spirit will lead them to make a commitment to Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour.
As we start our series called Just Walk Across the Room, we're reminded that God himself was the first room crosser. Throughout history, in the stories of Adam and Eve, Abraham and Sarah, Moses and the Israelites God has come close to his people and acted so that they may live in a close and loving relationship with him. Whilst we continued to rejected him, he made the ultimate crossing of a room and entered our time and space as a human. The birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus is the greatest news that we can ever receive. Knowing that Christ has saved us and brings us new life, changes us now and forever and gives us the motivation to cross rooms and share our faiht withe others.
The metaphor to Just Walk Across the Room helps reminds us of how we can move from a circle of comfort where we're with our friends, to a place where we can contact others, connect with them in a deeper way and communicate the good news of Jesus with them. All the time praying that the inspiration of the Spirit will lead them to make a commitment to Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Creating your legacy
Acts 20:17 - 24
As Paul leaves Asia on his way to Jerusalem and into the unknown, he takes time to say a final farewell to the Elders of the church in Ephesus. During his speech he reminds them of the life that he has lived among them. We are reminded that as we live our lives that we are creating our legacy. As inevitable as death and taxes, so too is our legacy, the question though is what type of legacy do we want to leave.
Paul's legacy is one of an alive and growing faith in Jesus Christ. One in which he served God where he was called, and one in which he proclaimed Jesus Christ and brought others into a living relationship with Jesus.
How are you creating a legacy for yourself? We can live our lives now in a way that frames the legacy that we will leave and have an impact on people for years to come, even into eternity.
As Paul leaves Asia on his way to Jerusalem and into the unknown, he takes time to say a final farewell to the Elders of the church in Ephesus. During his speech he reminds them of the life that he has lived among them. We are reminded that as we live our lives that we are creating our legacy. As inevitable as death and taxes, so too is our legacy, the question though is what type of legacy do we want to leave.
Paul's legacy is one of an alive and growing faith in Jesus Christ. One in which he served God where he was called, and one in which he proclaimed Jesus Christ and brought others into a living relationship with Jesus.
How are you creating a legacy for yourself? We can live our lives now in a way that frames the legacy that we will leave and have an impact on people for years to come, even into eternity.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Resuced
Acts 12:1 - 19
The harsh reality of life is that many of us carry around within us things that trap and imprison us - addictions, emotional scars, behaviours, attitudes, temptations that we give into too often. We try and often/always succeed in hiding this undesirable part of our lives, but they keep us being less than God wants for us, and keep us imprisoned in guilt, shame and unsociable behaviour. But this is not the way life should be. Jesus came to “proclaim freedom to the prisoners” (Lk.4:18). This is more than the physical freedom that Peter experiences in Acts 12.
To achieve this freedom from the internal things that trap us, we first need to admit that we can't do it on our own. Peter's freedom came through the miraculous power of the Spirit, but was partnered by the church that "was earnestly praying to God for him" (v 5). Two things to reflect on, to find your own freedom, is there someone you can share with, a person who is trustworthy and mature, and can they and you commit to praying earnestly?
When Peter's release came, he went to the gathered believers who furthered his escape (v 17). Living in a broken world, means that the temptation and possibility of becoming re-imprisoned is always present. We need friends around us to help keep us free. Friends who will hold us accountable, point out blind spots, encourage and distract us. Who are these people for you?
Finally, we need to believe through action that God can release. The early church didn't do this, they argued with Rhoda that Peter couldn't be at the door. Too often we miss out on the power of God to rescue us because we think that it can't be done. Believe and see what he will do.
The harsh reality of life is that many of us carry around within us things that trap and imprison us - addictions, emotional scars, behaviours, attitudes, temptations that we give into too often. We try and often/always succeed in hiding this undesirable part of our lives, but they keep us being less than God wants for us, and keep us imprisoned in guilt, shame and unsociable behaviour. But this is not the way life should be. Jesus came to “proclaim freedom to the prisoners” (Lk.4:18). This is more than the physical freedom that Peter experiences in Acts 12.
To achieve this freedom from the internal things that trap us, we first need to admit that we can't do it on our own. Peter's freedom came through the miraculous power of the Spirit, but was partnered by the church that "was earnestly praying to God for him" (v 5). Two things to reflect on, to find your own freedom, is there someone you can share with, a person who is trustworthy and mature, and can they and you commit to praying earnestly?
When Peter's release came, he went to the gathered believers who furthered his escape (v 17). Living in a broken world, means that the temptation and possibility of becoming re-imprisoned is always present. We need friends around us to help keep us free. Friends who will hold us accountable, point out blind spots, encourage and distract us. Who are these people for you?
Finally, we need to believe through action that God can release. The early church didn't do this, they argued with Rhoda that Peter couldn't be at the door. Too often we miss out on the power of God to rescue us because we think that it can't be done. Believe and see what he will do.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Acting with boldness
Acts 4:23 - 31
The nanny state and its attendant decline in risk aversion is striking at the very core of what it means to be the church today. Rather than following in the footsteps of the early church and being bold in our willingness to speak out in the name of Jesus (see Acts 4 - 12 for example), we are being people who generally huddle within our church walls, trying to make ourselves as small, minimising the risks that could come our way when we speak about faith, or Christian values in our society.
The early church were able to be bold because they recognised that their number one priority was to be witnesses to Jesus Christ in the world. They let nothing get in the way of doing this (see Acts 4:19). Secondly, they prayed for boldness. They realised that the Holy Spirit could make them bold when they were not naturally bold (see Acts 4:29). Thirdly, they knew that the opposition that came their way was against God, and that they were part of his mission in this world (see Acts 4:25, 26).
Where do you start with being bold? What are the situations that you are in, where empowered by the Holy Spirit, you could speak God's truth and in doing so advance the work of his kingdom?
The nanny state and its attendant decline in risk aversion is striking at the very core of what it means to be the church today. Rather than following in the footsteps of the early church and being bold in our willingness to speak out in the name of Jesus (see Acts 4 - 12 for example), we are being people who generally huddle within our church walls, trying to make ourselves as small, minimising the risks that could come our way when we speak about faith, or Christian values in our society.
The early church were able to be bold because they recognised that their number one priority was to be witnesses to Jesus Christ in the world. They let nothing get in the way of doing this (see Acts 4:19). Secondly, they prayed for boldness. They realised that the Holy Spirit could make them bold when they were not naturally bold (see Acts 4:29). Thirdly, they knew that the opposition that came their way was against God, and that they were part of his mission in this world (see Acts 4:25, 26).
Where do you start with being bold? What are the situations that you are in, where empowered by the Holy Spirit, you could speak God's truth and in doing so advance the work of his kingdom?
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Just walk across the room
Starting on 25 July our congregation is going to participate in a campaign called Just Walk Across the Room. For many of us, the whole idea of evangelism is a scary concept. It is intended that through this campaign we'll reduce our anxieties about faith sharing and start to realise that it can be as easy as just walking across the room to talk to another person. I hope that you will participate by being part of a week small group and worshipping each Sunday.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Fully devoted
Acts 2:42 - 47
The picture that Luke gives us of the early church is one of people who were fully devoted to Christ and living his life. Amongst many other things, we see that the church was devoted to worship, community, spiritual growth, serving others and sharing faith with others.
These things have continued in the church down throughout the ages, and indeed are reflected in the four focus areas of our congregation's strategic map.
The question for you is not whether you do these things, but what is your level of devotion to them. Jesus commands us to love the Lord our God with all our heart, mind, soul and strength. Is that love evident in your life and the devotion you give to God?
The picture that Luke gives us of the early church is one of people who were fully devoted to Christ and living his life. Amongst many other things, we see that the church was devoted to worship, community, spiritual growth, serving others and sharing faith with others.
These things have continued in the church down throughout the ages, and indeed are reflected in the four focus areas of our congregation's strategic map.
The question for you is not whether you do these things, but what is your level of devotion to them. Jesus commands us to love the Lord our God with all our heart, mind, soul and strength. Is that love evident in your life and the devotion you give to God?
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Motivated by Grace
Matthew 21:28 - 32
In our Christian lives there are many things that we do - worship, engage in private devotions, serve, share our faith, read the bible, act in particular ways. Why do you do what you do? For some it may be obligation, duty, routine, guilt. But none of these are an authentic life lived in grace.
As we've explored over the past weeks, we are made right with God not on the basis of anything we do or don't do, but purely and solely because of the work of God. Therefore our worship, witness and service is to be motivated by a response of gratitude and reverence for a God who draws us near.
This motivation should actually move us to action. In James 1:22 he writes, "do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says." Similarly, in the book Discipleship, David Watson writes "Christians in the west have largely neglected what it means to be a disciple of Christ. The vast majority of Western Christians are church members, pew fillers, hymn singers, sermon tasters, Bible readers, even born again believers or spirit filled charismatics - but not true disciples of Jesus". (pg 16)
How are you motivated by grace to act in this world. In what ways does your service for God and others reflect the grace you have received? More importantly, is the life you are living one that is a reflection of the grace you have been received? Does God's grace in your life cause you to act for justice for others and to pursue fairness and equity? Is your life one that reflects the values of Jesus? Do you seek the best for others?
In our Christian lives there are many things that we do - worship, engage in private devotions, serve, share our faith, read the bible, act in particular ways. Why do you do what you do? For some it may be obligation, duty, routine, guilt. But none of these are an authentic life lived in grace.
As we've explored over the past weeks, we are made right with God not on the basis of anything we do or don't do, but purely and solely because of the work of God. Therefore our worship, witness and service is to be motivated by a response of gratitude and reverence for a God who draws us near.
This motivation should actually move us to action. In James 1:22 he writes, "do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says." Similarly, in the book Discipleship, David Watson writes "Christians in the west have largely neglected what it means to be a disciple of Christ. The vast majority of Western Christians are church members, pew fillers, hymn singers, sermon tasters, Bible readers, even born again believers or spirit filled charismatics - but not true disciples of Jesus". (pg 16)
How are you motivated by grace to act in this world. In what ways does your service for God and others reflect the grace you have received? More importantly, is the life you are living one that is a reflection of the grace you have been received? Does God's grace in your life cause you to act for justice for others and to pursue fairness and equity? Is your life one that reflects the values of Jesus? Do you seek the best for others?
Monday, May 10, 2010
Grace abuse
Romans 6:1 - 10
It is possible to both understand and misunderstand the message of God's grace. The grace is God is such that it washes over anything that we have done or will do, to the extent that it is possible to say, as people have, "I don't need to be good and avoid sin, God will forgive me anyway."
But that is to miss the point of the new creation we become in Jesus Christ as we are dead to sin and alive in Christ. The grace of God changes the very people that we are that sin is no longer attractive to us. We have the ability to sin, and indeed being fallible humans we will sin, but we will not be caught by it, nor desire to engage in it.
It is through our partnership with the Holy Spirit that we are able to grow in holiness. By allowing him to work in us, we will put more of the sinful nature behind us and express more of the spiritual nature in us.
It is possible to both understand and misunderstand the message of God's grace. The grace is God is such that it washes over anything that we have done or will do, to the extent that it is possible to say, as people have, "I don't need to be good and avoid sin, God will forgive me anyway."
But that is to miss the point of the new creation we become in Jesus Christ as we are dead to sin and alive in Christ. The grace of God changes the very people that we are that sin is no longer attractive to us. We have the ability to sin, and indeed being fallible humans we will sin, but we will not be caught by it, nor desire to engage in it.
It is through our partnership with the Holy Spirit that we are able to grow in holiness. By allowing him to work in us, we will put more of the sinful nature behind us and express more of the spiritual nature in us.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Being transformed by grace
Romans 12:9 - 21
The words that Paul writes in this passage are not simply another list of things for us to be guilty about not doing. In his letter, they come after a long build up of explaining the nature of grace, and a challenge at the beginning of chapter 12 to be transformed by the Holy Spirit. The words that Paul writes here, are therefore a description of a life lived in grace.
I summarise them into two categories:
- be generous with your possessions, your approach to other people, and your life in Christ.
- be reconcilers with your enemies.
It is about living a life big and large in the grace of God, and reflecting the very nature of Jesus in our world.
How different would this world be if we lived in the state of continual transformation by the Holy Spirit to be people who were overwhelmingly generous and who actively sought to be nice to our enemies? Where would you see differences in your approach to others? What would your home, church, workplace, world be like if we were always taking a further step into God's good, pleasing and perfect will as we lived in a state of grace?
The words that Paul writes in this passage are not simply another list of things for us to be guilty about not doing. In his letter, they come after a long build up of explaining the nature of grace, and a challenge at the beginning of chapter 12 to be transformed by the Holy Spirit. The words that Paul writes here, are therefore a description of a life lived in grace.
I summarise them into two categories:
- be generous with your possessions, your approach to other people, and your life in Christ.
- be reconcilers with your enemies.
It is about living a life big and large in the grace of God, and reflecting the very nature of Jesus in our world.
How different would this world be if we lived in the state of continual transformation by the Holy Spirit to be people who were overwhelmingly generous and who actively sought to be nice to our enemies? Where would you see differences in your approach to others? What would your home, church, workplace, world be like if we were always taking a further step into God's good, pleasing and perfect will as we lived in a state of grace?
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Beyond expectations
John 20:1 - 18
On that first Easter morning, Mary,Peter and the other disciple all acted toward Jesus as if he was dead. There previous experience pointed to one inescapable conclusion, that they expected to see the tomb closed and to know that the body of Jesus was safely inside, wrapped and anointed for death. But that is not the way of the expectation shaking God. Instead of death, what greeted them that morning was life. Life that confounded expectations and which today continues to confound expectations.
In our world there is so such much that robs us of hope and we think that things will only get worse. We think this based on our previous experiences. But the truth of the resurrection means that God works in marvellous ways in our world today. When all we see is hopelessness, death and black endings, God can and will bring about hope, life and new beginnings. We need the ears of faith, like Mary, to hear our master speak in the middle of our hopelessness.
What signs of resurrection life do you see today for our world, church and for yourself?
On that first Easter morning, Mary,Peter and the other disciple all acted toward Jesus as if he was dead. There previous experience pointed to one inescapable conclusion, that they expected to see the tomb closed and to know that the body of Jesus was safely inside, wrapped and anointed for death. But that is not the way of the expectation shaking God. Instead of death, what greeted them that morning was life. Life that confounded expectations and which today continues to confound expectations.
In our world there is so such much that robs us of hope and we think that things will only get worse. We think this based on our previous experiences. But the truth of the resurrection means that God works in marvellous ways in our world today. When all we see is hopelessness, death and black endings, God can and will bring about hope, life and new beginnings. We need the ears of faith, like Mary, to hear our master speak in the middle of our hopelessness.
What signs of resurrection life do you see today for our world, church and for yourself?
Monday, March 29, 2010
Getting it
Luke 19:28 - 40
Whilst we're used to shaking our head in disbelief at the crowds on the first Sunday at the way that they failed to get the point about Jesus' ministry, the question for us is whether we today get what his ministry is about.
We acknowledge that the ministry of Jesus was to inaugurate a new heaven and a new earth and to bring to all who believe in him forgiveness of sins and an entry into eternal life. But do we get that this starts here and now? Do we get that as Christ followers our task isn't just to stand on the sidelines and wave branches and cheer the work of Jesus, but that we are also to be actively pursuing the realisation of heaven here on earth?
We are called to live the life of Jesus, and to enter into his sacrificial self giving. This is something that we do not just for the six weeks of Lent, but for our entire lives. We are to have the same attitude that Jesus had. An attitude where we don't seek to be served, but to serve. An attitude where we don't seek to make life comfortable for ourselves, but to make it comfortable for others. An attitue where we give ourselves obediently to the call of God.
After Lent has finished, how are you going to maintain a life of self denial and sacrifice for the sake of others in this world who are poor and in need?
Whilst we're used to shaking our head in disbelief at the crowds on the first Sunday at the way that they failed to get the point about Jesus' ministry, the question for us is whether we today get what his ministry is about.
We acknowledge that the ministry of Jesus was to inaugurate a new heaven and a new earth and to bring to all who believe in him forgiveness of sins and an entry into eternal life. But do we get that this starts here and now? Do we get that as Christ followers our task isn't just to stand on the sidelines and wave branches and cheer the work of Jesus, but that we are also to be actively pursuing the realisation of heaven here on earth?
We are called to live the life of Jesus, and to enter into his sacrificial self giving. This is something that we do not just for the six weeks of Lent, but for our entire lives. We are to have the same attitude that Jesus had. An attitude where we don't seek to be served, but to serve. An attitude where we don't seek to make life comfortable for ourselves, but to make it comfortable for others. An attitue where we give ourselves obediently to the call of God.
After Lent has finished, how are you going to maintain a life of self denial and sacrifice for the sake of others in this world who are poor and in need?
Sunday, March 21, 2010
How bizarre
John 12:1 - 8
Was Mary some madly infatuated woman, engulfed in her love and gratitude toward the charismatic messianic figure of Jesus? I don't think so. In her bizarre actions Mary points the way forward to the death of Jesus and indicates the manner in which he is going to bring about salvation for the world. Her annointing of Jesus feet with an abundance of expensive perfume was done in a way that was generous, sacrifical and an act of service. In the same way the death of Jesus, in atonement for our sins, was generous, sacrificial and an act of service.
Mary indicates the true nature of discipleship which combines both worship and service. One without the other is a nonsense, worship becomes just an empty ritual, and service becomes a striving for merit points.
Examine your own discipleship, does it combine both worship and service, are you telling God you love him and showing him that you love him through your actions?
Was Mary some madly infatuated woman, engulfed in her love and gratitude toward the charismatic messianic figure of Jesus? I don't think so. In her bizarre actions Mary points the way forward to the death of Jesus and indicates the manner in which he is going to bring about salvation for the world. Her annointing of Jesus feet with an abundance of expensive perfume was done in a way that was generous, sacrifical and an act of service. In the same way the death of Jesus, in atonement for our sins, was generous, sacrificial and an act of service.
Mary indicates the true nature of discipleship which combines both worship and service. One without the other is a nonsense, worship becomes just an empty ritual, and service becomes a striving for merit points.
Examine your own discipleship, does it combine both worship and service, are you telling God you love him and showing him that you love him through your actions?
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Coming into the party
Luke 15:1 - 3, 11b - 32
We are told that we are to rejoice in the Lord. Yet how often is it that in our Christian lives aren't times of rejoicing. Like the younger son, we might be mired in sin, know that it is wrong, but find no way back to the father. Or like the older son, our relationship with the church is one of hard work, tireless effort and resentment. In the midst of this might be times of joy and experiences of the overwhelming love of God, but this too often pass away.
Jesus offers us an invitation into the party. Whether we are an older or younger brother, the opportunity is there for us to experience the gracious, overwhelming love and grace of God. God wills and wants us to be sharing in the party. What is it that you need to do, to enter the party? How do you need to come to your senses, how do you need to lay down your burden of work and just accept all that God has to offer?
We are told that we are to rejoice in the Lord. Yet how often is it that in our Christian lives aren't times of rejoicing. Like the younger son, we might be mired in sin, know that it is wrong, but find no way back to the father. Or like the older son, our relationship with the church is one of hard work, tireless effort and resentment. In the midst of this might be times of joy and experiences of the overwhelming love of God, but this too often pass away.
Jesus offers us an invitation into the party. Whether we are an older or younger brother, the opportunity is there for us to experience the gracious, overwhelming love and grace of God. God wills and wants us to be sharing in the party. What is it that you need to do, to enter the party? How do you need to come to your senses, how do you need to lay down your burden of work and just accept all that God has to offer?
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Worse sinners?
Luke 13:1 - 9
Recently there have seems to have been a significant number of tragedies being reported in our media. Floods in western Queensland, earthquakes in Haiti and Chile, murders of children in Brisbane and Bundaberg. The age old question that the people around Jesus asked, comes back to our minds, "why do these people suffer?" "Did they do something to deserve what happened to them?" Jesus makes it clear that the suffering of people is not dependant upon their sin, God does not punish in this way, God does not choose to let out his rage selectively. Jesus calls us all to repentance, reminding us again that we will all face punishment for our sins, unless we turn back to God.
Ultimatley there will be complete healing and an end to suffering when Christ returns, and until then everything that we have here on earth will be less than it could be.
But, as a new creation in Christ, we have the opportunity to declare and make now the coming kingdom of heaven and allow it to be seen here on earth. How do you do that? What are your practices, where in the power of the Holy Spirit, you proclaim the new heaven of Christ and reduce the suffering of this world? Our participation in Lent Event, our efforts to save the environment, our Community Helping Hand are all instances where we have declaring now the new thing that God is bringing to us.
Recently there have seems to have been a significant number of tragedies being reported in our media. Floods in western Queensland, earthquakes in Haiti and Chile, murders of children in Brisbane and Bundaberg. The age old question that the people around Jesus asked, comes back to our minds, "why do these people suffer?" "Did they do something to deserve what happened to them?" Jesus makes it clear that the suffering of people is not dependant upon their sin, God does not punish in this way, God does not choose to let out his rage selectively. Jesus calls us all to repentance, reminding us again that we will all face punishment for our sins, unless we turn back to God.
Ultimatley there will be complete healing and an end to suffering when Christ returns, and until then everything that we have here on earth will be less than it could be.
But, as a new creation in Christ, we have the opportunity to declare and make now the coming kingdom of heaven and allow it to be seen here on earth. How do you do that? What are your practices, where in the power of the Holy Spirit, you proclaim the new heaven of Christ and reduce the suffering of this world? Our participation in Lent Event, our efforts to save the environment, our Community Helping Hand are all instances where we have declaring now the new thing that God is bringing to us.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
What happened?
This Sunday we experienced a pulpit swap. Ben Webb from St Paul's Stafford shared with you at Emmanuel, whilst I led worship at Wilston Uniting Church.
What happened at Emmanuel? As you listened to Ben, open to the prompting of the Holy Spirit, how were you challenged, inspired, confronted, led to a deeper understanding? Please post a comment and share with others.
What happened at Emmanuel? As you listened to Ben, open to the prompting of the Holy Spirit, how were you challenged, inspired, confronted, led to a deeper understanding? Please post a comment and share with others.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
When temptation looks appealing
Matthew 4:1 - 11
Taken from the point of view of the devil, the temptations that Jesus faced all seemed reasonable, indeed could even be God honouring. The temptation to feed himself, to test God before he went into battle, to get power and glory without pain and suffering, can all be spun as a way of achieving God's purposes. Indeed, therein is the greatest deception of the devil. It's found in those temptations that are so obviously wrong, although still appealing. But more so in those things that it takes alot of pray, discernment and waiting on God, to identify the evil temptation.
For example, God wants his church to grow and prevail, isn't it right then, that I should do everything in my power to make the church grow? Wrong. That's the temptation of the devil. My part in God's church is to surrender to his will, to serve where I am called, to use his gifts in ways that honour him.
Abiding in scripture like Jesus did helps us identify what is of God, and what is of the devil, because temptation can all too often seem very appealing.
Taken from the point of view of the devil, the temptations that Jesus faced all seemed reasonable, indeed could even be God honouring. The temptation to feed himself, to test God before he went into battle, to get power and glory without pain and suffering, can all be spun as a way of achieving God's purposes. Indeed, therein is the greatest deception of the devil. It's found in those temptations that are so obviously wrong, although still appealing. But more so in those things that it takes alot of pray, discernment and waiting on God, to identify the evil temptation.
For example, God wants his church to grow and prevail, isn't it right then, that I should do everything in my power to make the church grow? Wrong. That's the temptation of the devil. My part in God's church is to surrender to his will, to serve where I am called, to use his gifts in ways that honour him.
Abiding in scripture like Jesus did helps us identify what is of God, and what is of the devil, because temptation can all too often seem very appealing.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Evidence
Matthew 3:1 - 12
In response to the Pharisees and Sadducees coming out to see what he's doing in the wilderness, John the Baptist gives them an earful and a challenge to "produce fruit in keeping with repentance." I am fascintated by this phrase.
It would be very easy for us today to produce fruit. How much of what we do in church and life is just "stuff". Activity for the sake of activity? Our protestant work ethic, our action orientated society, our results based culture gives us a natural bias toward doing something and showing some sort of results. But that's not what John challenges us to do. He challenges us to show an outward response to our inner relationship to God. Jesus teaching in John 15:1 - 8 where he says "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing" is a natural extension of John's command.
As disciples who follow Jesus, we are challenged to do no more, and no less, than that which he calls us to do. Our fruit, the service we give and our sharing of faith needs to be an authentic response to his grace in our lives and our growing relationship with him.
The challenge for us is to be willing to serve just where he wants. To lay down our egos, and desire for power and control and stop doing more than he would have us do. To also be willing to lay down our pursuit of the easy life, and fear of being "trapped by the church" and serve more than we are now. What do you need to do?
The challenge also comes through our sharing of faith. Where our faith is genuine and deeply held by us, the passion for Christ will result in authentic sharing of that faith with our friends and families. How are you leading those around you, who do not yet know Jesus Christ, closer to his saving presence?
In response to the Pharisees and Sadducees coming out to see what he's doing in the wilderness, John the Baptist gives them an earful and a challenge to "produce fruit in keeping with repentance." I am fascintated by this phrase.
It would be very easy for us today to produce fruit. How much of what we do in church and life is just "stuff". Activity for the sake of activity? Our protestant work ethic, our action orientated society, our results based culture gives us a natural bias toward doing something and showing some sort of results. But that's not what John challenges us to do. He challenges us to show an outward response to our inner relationship to God. Jesus teaching in John 15:1 - 8 where he says "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing" is a natural extension of John's command.
As disciples who follow Jesus, we are challenged to do no more, and no less, than that which he calls us to do. Our fruit, the service we give and our sharing of faith needs to be an authentic response to his grace in our lives and our growing relationship with him.
The challenge for us is to be willing to serve just where he wants. To lay down our egos, and desire for power and control and stop doing more than he would have us do. To also be willing to lay down our pursuit of the easy life, and fear of being "trapped by the church" and serve more than we are now. What do you need to do?
The challenge also comes through our sharing of faith. Where our faith is genuine and deeply held by us, the passion for Christ will result in authentic sharing of that faith with our friends and families. How are you leading those around you, who do not yet know Jesus Christ, closer to his saving presence?
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Turning around
"Repent, for the kingdom of God is at hand" (Matt 3:2).
Repentance may not be the most welcome word to hear. It has connotations of fundamentalist preachers, bringing a message of despair and foreboding, a bit like John the Baptist. It is a word that Christ-followers need to hear and act upon. We all fall short of the glory of God, we sin, in our thoughts, words and actions, and need to turn again to the life that Christ has for us.
As we continue to explore our Strategic Map, we recognise that two parts of the pathway are about our inner journey toward being more like Christ. The first is to grow in our Christ like character, and to humbly learn to submit to the transformative work of the Spirit in us. Our pathway into the future will challenge us to reflect deeper, and more intentionally on our ongoing alignment with Christ's life in us. The map gives us guidance on how we are going to do this.
Our work of transformation is also about learning new and better skills for conducting our ministry. Proverbs 1:5 tells us that the wise will listen and add to their learning. Our journey into the future entails better equipping us for the work of serving that we're called to do.
Take some time, pray, reflect, journal, talk to a trusted friend, in what areas do you need to grow spiritually to more authentically reflect the life of Christ? Also, what are the skills that you need to learn or improve to continue to faithfully serve as God has called and equippped you?
Repentance may not be the most welcome word to hear. It has connotations of fundamentalist preachers, bringing a message of despair and foreboding, a bit like John the Baptist. It is a word that Christ-followers need to hear and act upon. We all fall short of the glory of God, we sin, in our thoughts, words and actions, and need to turn again to the life that Christ has for us.
As we continue to explore our Strategic Map, we recognise that two parts of the pathway are about our inner journey toward being more like Christ. The first is to grow in our Christ like character, and to humbly learn to submit to the transformative work of the Spirit in us. Our pathway into the future will challenge us to reflect deeper, and more intentionally on our ongoing alignment with Christ's life in us. The map gives us guidance on how we are going to do this.
Our work of transformation is also about learning new and better skills for conducting our ministry. Proverbs 1:5 tells us that the wise will listen and add to their learning. Our journey into the future entails better equipping us for the work of serving that we're called to do.
Take some time, pray, reflect, journal, talk to a trusted friend, in what areas do you need to grow spiritually to more authentically reflect the life of Christ? Also, what are the skills that you need to learn or improve to continue to faithfully serve as God has called and equippped you?
Saturday, January 30, 2010
A map for our journey
Matthew 4:1 - 11
At the beginning of his public ministry, Jesus encounters the devil and is tempted. Amongst the many things that the temptations represent, they are all temptations that lead Jesus, and us, to think of ourselves first, before we think of God, God's mission and God's people. Too often we fall into this temptation. We think about the importance of a large bank balance, buildings that are used for our comfort, activities and worship that is pleasing to us, only then thinking of others.
The corrective to this inward focus, can be found in John 21:15 - 19. In response to Peter's declarations of love for Jesus, Peter is commissioned to care for the people of God and to follow Jesus in his mission.
Our strategic map, seeks to plot a course for us to follow Jesus. We have prayed, reflected, met and discussed, and believe we have heard the direction that God is calling us to take. The time has now come for us to put our faith and obedience into action. The strategic map is a declaration that we are ready to move beyond ourselves and more intentionally move outward embracing the ministry of Jesus.
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