The Old Testament's Gospel

“The most urgent task facing evangelical Christianity today is the recovery of the Gospel”  J.I. Packer

  Many liberal Bible scholars and Bible deniers consider the Old Testament sub-Christian and not to be considered authoritative. For them, it’s a closed chapter with zero relevance for the Church and little meaning for us today. The common claim is the God of the Old Testament is harsh, brutal…even evil. Maybe you’ve heard questions like these: How could God kill all those innocent people, even children, in the Flood? Why would God send the Israelites into Canaan to exterminate the innocent Canaanites living in the land? Why did God continually require blood sacrifices?

  A logical and initial response to this can simply be, “How can a skeptic or non-Christian say God is harsh, brutal, and evil when they deny the Bible, the very book that defines harsh, brutal, and evil?” Add to that, for atheistic, materialistic or evolutionary worldviews, such things are neither morally right nor wrong because there’s no transcendent God in their view to establish what is right or wrong. It’s all subjective. Those who believe in a naturalistic worldview accept as “natural” animals raping, murdering and eating their own kind yet attack the God of the Bible and call Him evil.

  But even the most fanatical atheists have an innate sense of right and wrong, wanting justice. They’d be outraged if Omar Mateen, the Islamic Orlando shooter, had survived and were allowed to go free without facing justice or consequences for his cold blooded massacre of 49 victims. Yet, if God really doesn’t exist and the Bible isn’t His Word, then those who attack God and His Word by calling Him harsh and evil shouldn’t care. If Naturalism rules, if it’s a dog eat dog world, justice is only a cultural or subjective human derivative. For example, what is justice for us in America would be heroism for much of the Islamic world.

  It’s only in Scripture, we find true justice and grace. They go all the way back to the beginning, Creation and the Fall. From an honest human standpoint, God’s mercy is counter-intuitive. We wouldn't expect a God of perfect justice and righteousness to put up with stubborn sinners. No, we’d expect Him to stamp out evil entirely. After all, aren't we tempted to avenge ourselves for much lesser faults?

  The Old Testament is the Bible Jesus and the early church used to explain His coming, His sacrifice and God’s plan of grace. It’s what Jesus shared after His resurrection with the two disciples on the road to Emmaus: “‘O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into His glory?’ And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, He interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself” (Luke 24:25-27).

  Even many well-meaning Christians have a file cabinet view of the accounts from the Old Testament. In that paradigm, the book of Psalms contains files of reassuring words for hard times. The Genesis file folder is full of interesting moral lessons. The book of Proverbs file is useful when one needs good advice. The Law and Minor Prophets? Many aren’t sure of their purpose. The file folders containing those stories often gather dust.

  This separate file folder approach to the Old Testament misses the connections between those accounts and the Gospel that Jesus explained on the road to Emmaus. As we look for the Gospel in the Old Testament, the file folders begin to open up and the characters stumble out of our filing cabinet, joining hands from Genesis until Jesus appears in person in the New Testament. Each story feeds the next, teaching us of God’s good plan before time even began – to forgive, show grace and redeem His people.

  This morning we’re beginning a new study: The Gospel in the Old Testament. God’s plan of forgiveness and redemption is not Plan B, or a New Testament God plan. It began in the Old Testament with the Fall when our first parents disobeyed God’s one command, bringing death upon themselves and the entire human race. If God had not rescued Adam and Eve, and the human race, if there had been no death and no plan of rescue, we’d have been forced to live in a sin-cursed world for all eternity.

  It’s why the path to the Tree of Life was guarded by an angel. Yet, by dying in this sin-cursed world with Jesus Christ as our Savior, one inherits the new heaven and new earth which will be restored to perfection, where there is no curse, death, or suffering for all eternity. Death will have no sting (1 Corinthians 15:53-56) for those in Christ. That’s the seed of the Gospel and goes all the way back to Genesis 3.

  Man sinned and God acted justly by punishing that sin, yet in love God also provided three blessings: a grace period, a means of salvation and a perfect place to live an eternal life without sin, death, or the curse. The New Testament simply can’t be understood in isolation from the Old Testament. The Scriptures which Jesus and the Apostles used in the authoritative proclamation of their message were those of the Old Testament. “The Gospel of God, which He promised beforehand through His prophets in the holy Scriptures…” Romans 1:1-2. We miss so much of the force, as well as the richness and depth of the gospel, when we fail to see it against the backdrop of the Old Testament.

  The Old Testament is written in the context of the tragic human situation. Man, who was made in the image of God to rule, to inherit thrones and dominions and to enjoy God forever, is in a dire situation. He’s enslaved, oppressed and afflicted. The Old Testament rudely reminds us we’re victim to countless disorders and prey to the cruel tyrants of sin, misery and death. But there is hope...

  The Old Testament is filled with promises and prophecies of hope. They find their fulfillment in Jesus Christ and the Gospel. The Gospel announces God has acted in Christ to fulfill what He’d promised in the Old Testament. In Jesus these promises are no longer future tense. God has acted in Christ to do all He said He would do. It’s truly The Gospel in the Old Testament. 

  Please join us each Sunday this summer as we unpack God’s wonderful plan of grace for us from the dawn of time!

Looking for quality used Christian books and other types of books at prices lower than even Amazon. Check out our family's online used bookstore at resurrectedreads.com or visit our store at the Waterford Unique Antique Market at 209 North Milwaukee Street in Waterford, WI --  262.534.3500. 

Where have all the heroes gone?

“The most critical need of the church at this moment is men, bold men, free men. The church must seek, in prayer and much humility, the coming again of men made of the stuff of which prophets and martyrs are made.”  

A.W. Tozer

  A true hero died earlier this month but you’ve probably never heard of him. Other than some Christian periodicals and websites, his passing went virtually unnoticed. For twelve years he served as a missionary to Japan. That’s not why he was a hero. For a time he was a headmaster of a well-known school in North Carolina. That’s not why he was a hero. For twenty-two years he was president of a Bible college. That’s not why he was a hero. Under his leadership, that Christian college made major advancements in accreditation standing and faculty development, growth in the graduate and seminary programs, the initiation of radio ministry and the expansion of campus facilities. That’s not why he was a hero. In 2010 he was honored for his decades of work in Christian missions and received the 2010 Lifetime of Service Award from Missio Nexus. That’s not why he was a hero. On June 2^nd, Robertson McQuilkin went Home the age of 88. Why was he a hero? Robertson McQuilkin took his vows seriously.

  His life challenged me. His story always brings tears to my eyes. After serving as president of Columbia International University (CIU) for 22 years, in 1990, Robertson McQuilkin famously chose to resign though he was just eight years shy of his retirement. He resigned so he could care for his wife, Muriel, who had Alzheimer’s. His resignation speech is a classic godly example. Even today he still inspires many around the world on what it means to be a man, a husband and committed to his marriage.

  In his resignation he said: “I haven't in my life experienced easy decision-making on major decisions, but one of the simplest and clearest decisions I've had to make is this one, because circumstances dictated it. Muriel now, in the last couple of months, seems to be almost happy with me, and almost never happy when not with me. In fact, she seems to feel trapped, becomes very fearful, sometimes almost terror, and when she can't get to me there can be anger…she's in distress. But when I'm with her, she's happy and contented, and so I must be with her at all times…It's not only that I promised in sickness and in health, 'till death do us part — I'm a man of my word. But as I have said, (I don't know with this group, but I've said publicly), it's the only fair thing. She sacrificed for me for 40 years, to make my life possible…So, if I cared for her for 40 years, I'd still be in debt. However, there's much more…It's not that I have to. It's that I get to. I love her very dearly, and you can tell it's not easy to talk about. She's a delight. And it's a great honor to care for such a wonderful person.” And he did, for the next 12 years, until the Lord took Muriel Home.    

  Today it seems to be more confusing on what it means to be a godly man than perhaps at any other time in history, at least in Church History. Young men are very confused on what manhood is all about. Perhaps it’s because those of us who should know better send the wrong message. We attain our values from a sinful world, rather than God’s eternal Word.

  Being a godly man has nothing to do with being able to throw, catch, hit or even putt a ball. One of the greatest athletes in Scripture was a big dude named Goliath. Like many athletes, he ended up losing his head to his own arrogance. One can be very talented, whether it be athletically, musically or even academically and have zero character.

  So what are we modeling for our sons and grandsons when we’re on the edge of our seats during a game, but are bored or can’t stay awake during worship? What are we modeling when we know every iota of sports trivia, yet when it comes to biblical truth we’re essentially illiterate?

  Being a godly man has nothing to do with business or financial success. God was so impressed with the man on the cover of the Forbes of his day, the man ready to expand and tear down his barns to build bigger ones, God called him a “fool” and took him out (Luke 12:13-21). Nebuchadnezzar makes Warren Buffet look like a pauper. It wasn’t until he realized everything he had was a gift from God, just as it is for you and me, that he became a true success.

  Being a godly man has nothing to do with sexual prowess. King Solomon had a miserable life though he had 700 wives and 300 concubines. Jack Nicholson, one of Hollywood’s most famous womanizers, in a recent interview, admitted how lonely he is and dreads dying alone. Because we believe the Bible, as Christians we must be unapologetically pro-life. Many miss that a biblical worldview of pro-life starts before sex. We victimize children when we don’t model or encourage a committed marriage. Children deserve more than a father whose wages are garnished, has minimal visitation rights, lives in his parents’ basement, and is flushing his life away playing Grand Theft Auto, and whose idea of gainful employment is flipping burgers.

  Being a godly man has nothing to do with being sensitively spineless. Godly men have backbone. They step up. They live out Joshua’s words, “as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD” (Joshua 24:15). He spiritually leads, even makes decisions. He initiates and is even willing to take heat, even from his wife or children because what he believes is right ticks them off. He’s responsible and dependable. He realizes God called him to be his kid’s father, not their buddy. He doesn’t wait to take a stand until he’s pushed and pushed and pushed, finally blowing his stack. That’s not leadership, courage or maturity, and certainly not godliness.

  Scripture clearly lays out qualifications for godly men (1 Timothy 3:1-13; 2 Timothy 2:1-13; Acts 6:1-6) which be summarized in four words. Commitment. Are you clearly committed to Jesus Christ? Different personalities express passion differently, yet there must be evidence of a fire inside to know and obey the Lord Jesus. Conviction. Do you have biblically informed convictions…about who God is, who you are, the meaning of human history, the nature of the church, and especially the meaning of Jesus’ death and resurrection? Are you learning what it means to be transformed by the renewal of the mind (Romans 12:2), to think biblically about every dimension of your life (money, time, sex, family, recreation)? Competency. Do you know God’s Word? Are you applying it to your life? Can you help others with biblical counsel? Character. Are you becoming more like Jesus? Not perfection, but direction. Do you exhibit self-control, hospitality, gentleness, a quest for holiness? Are you selfless? Are you lovingly faithful to your wife and a committed father? 

  I’ve known a lot of godly men like Robertson McQuilkin, sadly not enough. This world is dying for godly men! Will you be one? 

Looking for quality used Christian books and other types of books at prices lower than even Amazon. Check out our family's online used bookstore at resurrectedreads.com or visit our store at the Waterford Unique Antique Market at 209 North Milwaukee Street in Waterford, WI --  262.534.3500. 

Harriet Tubman: A True Christian Hero

“The good and the great are only separated by the 

willingness to sacrifice.”   Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

  Remember the commercial, “What have you got in your wallet?” Okay, I’ll confess. The favorite face I like to have inside my wallet is Benjamin Franklin. Unfortunately, he’s not there very often and leaves too quickly. When you hand him over at McDonald’s to be replaced by some of his lesser friends, the clerk will probably give you a look of disdain as she marks him up to make sure he’s for real.

  President Jackson is probably the most common face in my wallet. Having been raised in Atlanta, it’s rare for me to go anywhere without at least one Jackson tucked away. It’s called “mug money.” While I live in small town America where muggings are as common as traffic jams, old habits die hard. Add to that, I’m the only male in my family who’s never been mugged…I’d like to keep it that way.

  Too many of us tend to be resistant to change, especially if we’re conservative and the change smells like “political correctness” to us. Personally, I’m very pleased with the recent choice of Harriet Tubman to grace our $20 bills. I’d surmise many who are having such strong visceral reactions to this change don’t know much about either President Andrew Jackson or Harriet Tubman, other than he’s white and she’s black.

  In a day of growing political correctness and sensitivity, there could hardly be a more politically incorrect choice than Harriet Tubman. While she was a former slave, she could easily be the face for the NRA. She was known as the “Black Moses” because of the many slaves she rescued prior to the Civil War. Her rescue missions were very dangerous, so Tubman wisely demanded strict obedience from her escapees. A slave who returned to his master would likely be forced to reveal information which would compromise her mission. If a slave wanted to quit in the midst of a rescue, she’d hold a revolver to his head and ask him to reconsider. Asked whether she’d actually kill a reluctant escapee, she replied, “Yes, if he was weak enough to give out, he’d be weak enough to betray us all and all who had helped us, and do you think I'd let so many die just for one coward man?”

  While she never had to shoot a slave she helped, she did come close with one: “I told the boys to get their guns ready, and shoot him. They'd have done it in a minute; but when he heard that, he jumped right up and went on as well as anybody.”

  A foolish blunder today with our oversaturation of political correctness is the incessant judgment of yesterday’s choices by today’s standards. For example, do we think Harriet Tubman was right to threaten someone’s life? Personally, I can’t make that call. I’m just thankful she never had to make that choice. Yet, let’s not forget many innocent lives were at stake if her missions was discovered.

  The same is true of Andrew Jackson. One of the arguments made for this change is Jackson was a slave holder. But so was nearly everyone else. Do I believe he was correct or it can ever be rationalized? No, but I do believe there are things culturally accepted that even believers never evaluate in light of God’s Word because they’re so engrafted into the culture. Let me share just one example. Smoking today is a cultural taboo, yet not many years ago nearly everyone smoked, including many pastors like Spurgeon.

  As believers, we need to be biblically wise and cognizant that there are no good people, only a great God. We all have blind spots and chinks in our armor, often cultural ones. We must be cautious in judging others, particularly those from history. Yet, we often need to be better at judging ourselves and so thankful for God’s grace that He loves us in spite of our own spiritual blindness. It’s all of grace!

  Harriet Tubman was a Christian and a heroine. Raised in slavery in Maryland, she escaped in 1849. When she first reached the North, she said later, “I looked at my hands to see if I was de same person now I was free. Dere was such a glory ober eberything, de sun came like gold through de trees and ober de fields, and I felt like I was in heaven.” Yet, she was not satisfied with her own freedom and made 19 return trips to the South, helping to deliver at least 300 fellow slaves, boasting “I never lost a passenger.” Her friends and fellow abolitionists claimed the source of her strength came from her faith in God as deliverer and protector of the weak.

  “I always tole God,” she said, “I'm gwine to hole stiddy on you, an' you've got to see me through.” Incensed slave owners offered a $40,000 reward for her capture but she was never apprehended. “I can't die but once” became the motto of her life. With that philosophy she continued on with her mission of deliverance. For eight years, as America moved toward Civil War, she made many dangerous trips back to Maryland, leading slaves north to freedom. On each rescue mission she relied on God to guide and protect her. She gave all the credit to Him, explaining, “‘Twant me, ‘twas the Lord. I always told him, ‘I trusts to you. I don’t know where to go or what to do, but I expect you to lead me,’ and he always did.” No wonder she was known as Moses. Her faith deeply impressed others. Abolitionist Thomas Garrett said of her, “I never met with any person of any color who had more confidence in the voice of God, as spoken direct to her soul.”

  Later, during the Civil War, she served the Union as a scout, spy, cook, and nurse to wounded and sick soldiers. She even led an armed assault on Southern plantations, during which 750 slaves were rescued. In later years, she donated property to be turned into a home for indigent former slaves.

  Harriet Tubman was someone we all can learn from and emulate. She lived out being salt and light before a wicked world. Today there is even more evil that needs resisting. Each time we see her face on our money, may it remind us, as those who’ve been rescued, we, too, have a mission to rescue slaves…slaves of sin. As we grow weary, let’s remember her unflinching courage and unfailing faith in God’s guidance—renewing our efforts to be a “Moses” to the ones God has called us to rescue.  

Looking for quality used Christian books and other types of books at prices lower than even Amazon. Check out our family's online used bookstore at resurrectedreads.com or visit our store at the Waterford Unique Antique Market at 209 North Milwaukee Street in Waterford, WI --  262.534.3500. 

Not the same old face....

“We don’t grow older, we grow riper.”  

Pablo Picasso

Probably the biggest problem with Facebook is you’re supposed to post pictures of your face…at least periodically. Recently, Jane and I had lunch with her sister, Susan, and husband, Fred Froman. We then posted a picture of the four of us on Facebook. Darlene Gomes, a mutual friend who’d been in both of our youth groups many years ago in Warren, Michigan wrote underneath, “How did you guys get so old when I’ve only aged a little?”

  She was teasing (I hope). Darlene is a few years younger than us, yet she makes a valid point. No one can slow down the aging process. While we can’t keep ourselves from growing old, we have complete control over how we will grow old and what kind of older person we will be. Even if you’re already “older,” it’s not too late to make some needed adjustments.

  Unfortunately, most of us in our twenties or thirties, rarely consider what kind of older person we want to be. We tend to age purposelessly, much like bread grows mold. Habits or attitudes acquired early on often become entrenched in our sundown years. Yet, there’s something wonderful and fulfilling about being someone who’s “grown old in Jesus.” I’ve had the privilege of knowing a few. By God’s grace, I want to be one...don’t you?  

  The first funeral I conducted was for a dear saint, Bess Norum. She was nearly 95 years young when Jesus called her Home. Bess was sweet, yet a bit of a firecracker. When she was younger, she’d sung in Billy Sunday’s choir during one of his revivals. Even at 94, she had a powerful Christlike influence on others. Her closest friends had essentially dropped out of church yet because of Bess’ encouragement, came back. Back then, our church didn’t have air conditioning. For a small church of 40 people, to put it in was a chunk of change. At the information meeting, Bess quipped we could make a lot of lemonade for what it was going to cost. Yet, she was one of the early givers who helped pay for the new air conditioning.

  If we’re not already there, each of us will reach that stage where there’s more of life’s road in the rearview mirror than in the windshield. While there’s no shortage of old men and women, yet if you list out those you want to be like, who you want to emulate, the list will be alarmingly short.

  This is true for a variety of reasons. Too many drift into self-centeredness. Life becomes about “ME.” I remember trying to feign interest on one occasion as a retired couple droned on and on about the wonders of their RV and all the gadgets it had. Life was about travelling for them and all the things THEY were going to do, but nary a word about what they might do for someone else, even their own grandchildren. Many succumb to impatience, which is ironic if you stop and think about it – what pressing matters do they have? Others become critical or petty. Some sour with bitterness. Most live in the past and no longer lean forward into the future.

  You’ll find that those who are examples of quality aging will not attract you because of their achievements or success, as we often define it. What makes for an attractive aged person has much more to do with character, attitude, the fruit of the Spirit and Christlikeness. By God’s grace, all of us can make our twilight years our highlight years. Scripture has many examples of older saints, many who are well worth emulating like Abraham, Caleb, Simeon or Anna. Can I though focus on two elderly Bible saints often overlooked that we can learn so much from?

  One is Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist. Scripture gives us just a glimpse of this godly matriarch. I’d encourage you to take time to study her story for yourself in Luke 1. Elizabeth is well up in years but childless. Rather, than allowing that fate to embitter her, Elizabeth chose to be gracious, trusting the Lord. When she miraculously conceives yet learns her younger cousin, Mary, is expecting, though it means her son will play 2^nd fiddle to Mary’s Son, Elizabeth rejoices with her. She completely trusts and submits to God’s sovereign plan. She’s willing to go against the tide when it comes to naming her son. Her commitment is to pleasing the Lord even though it causes tongues to wag and say harsh things about her.

  I meet many older folk who’ve had hard lives. Some, every opportunity they have, let others know how unhappy they are. While others may not know the cause of the bitterness, they know this elderly person has more wrinkles on their soul than their face. They’re miserable to be around. Often they will bemoan, “None of my family or friends call me.” They fail to connect their dark outlook with others’ absence.

  The other one is Jacob. Here’s an individual who truly fits the words of famed Bible commentator, Matthew Henry, “The last days of the saints are sometimes their best days, and their last work is their best work.” Early in his life, Jacob had been a conniving, manipulative, deceitful and sour person. He was a success as far as this world is concerned, but true success came to him in the last two decades of his life.

  Jacob believed his son, Joseph, was dead. But when he learned Joseph was alive and went to Egypt to be taken care of by Joseph, it was then Jacob had a one man revival. He allowed the faith, forgiving spirit and graciousness of Joseph to influence him and re-direct the trajectory of his life. The man who’d lived most of his life in fear became a man of faith and vision. Prior to the Egypt years, Jacob’s children and grandchildren gave him a wide berth, but something happened. Jacob changed and grew a tender heart for God. He became a godly testimony to others. It’s why I love Jacob. His last years demonstrate there’s always hope. With Christ working in your life, anyone can change, no matter how old you are.

  Even if your life hasn’t turned out like you expected, ask yourself a vital question: What kind of old man or woman do I want to be? You can’t undo the past or always control your circumstances. You do have a choice about the life you’re going to live. Many of us have a gut-wrenching choice to make. We can put our lives on autopilot, drifting into becoming a grumpy geezer. Or, by God’s grace, we can do the hard work of reinventing ourselves, reworking the last chapters of life so we truly end “Happily Ever After with Jesus.” Do you need to write a new chapter? It’s never too late!

Looking for quality used Christian books and other types of books at prices lower than even Amazon. Check out our family's online used bookstore at resurrectedreads.com or visit our store at the Waterford Unique Antique Market at 209 North Milwaukee Street in Waterford, WI --  262.534.3500. 

Drink & Drunk: More than a Grammatical Difference

“I’m tired of hearing sin called sickness and alcoholism a disease. It’s the only disease I know of that we’re spending hundreds of millions of dollars a year to spread.”   Vance Havner

  This may get me voted off the island or at least get my official Boy from the South card pulled. Often, when Northerners (also referred to as Yankees), visit the South, they return raving about the friendliness of Southerners. There is some authentic friendliness, yet much of it today is merely cultural. One lie Southerners will say to visitors is, “y’all come see us some time.” Mark it down, it usually means nothing. It’s just something polite to say. Sometimes, as you’re pulling out of their driveway, they’re even mumbling under their breath, “Let’s hope they never come back.”

  Every part of the country has cultural nuances. Until I came to Wisconsin, I thought a brat was the neighbor’s kid, pop was something a weasel did…and bubbler, well, I didn’t have a clue. Things from our culture become so much a part of our lives, we fail to evaluate them from a biblical worldview. As Christians, we’re to be a “Christian Counterculture” (to quote John Stott). Southern Christians need to evaluate their “politeness” to see if it’s sincere, lining up with Scripture. And in Wisconsin need to evaluate parts of our culture which we’ve accepted as normative yet potentially violates what God’s Word teaches or commands.

  You probably heard about a new list of the “Drunkest Cities in America.” It put a very bad spotlight on Wisconsin, home to 12 cities in the top 20, ranked by highest rates of binge drinking in adults. Heavy drinking refers to the number of alcoholic beverages consumed per week (15 or more for men and 8 or more for women). On average, 18% of adults drink unhealthy amounts of alcohol. Wisconsinites consistently imbibe on a grander scale, with more than 25% of adults reporting they binge or drink heavily throughout the week. Drinking is very much a part of Wisconsin culture. Yet, as Southern believers rarely question their own sincerity, Wisconsin believers often fail to evaluate their drinking habits in light of God’s Word and a biblical worldview…but we must. We are no longer just Wisconsinites, we have a new Father and are now “Heavenites.”

  First, let’s be clear: Scripture does not prohibit drinking. Jesus’ first miracle was making wine. The Bible does prohibit intoxication (Ephesians 5:18, Proverbs 23:29-35). And please do not rationalize drunkenness by comparing it to overeating. Here’s the difference: if you go to Texas Roadhouse and eat 5000 calories of saturated fat, you’re not going to be pulled over by the police because of your fat saturation level. You’re not likely to drive into a SUV, killing a whole family because of it. Even a binge smoker is less dangerous than a drunk driver. I’ve never been run off the road by a smoker; I have been though by a drunk. If you’re arrested for drunk driving, you’ll not only be embarrassed, you also hurt your testimony and the cause of Christ.

  Yet, because alcohol is so much a part of Wisconsin culture, one can be a problem drinker or even an alcoholic, and not know it. Please take a few moments and honestly answer these questions. If drinking is a concern, work through them with your spouse or a spiritually mature friend: Does alcohol interfere with your work? Do you sometimes lie about your drinking? Do you constantly use the phrase “I need a drink”? When you start drinking, do you find it hard to stop? Are you often coming up with new ways to control your drinking? Has addiction been a problem in your family history? Have family/friends confronted you about your drinking?  If you answered “Yes” to any or all of these questions, you need to seriously consider whether your alcohol consumption is a sin issue.

  We’re entering into the summer, the family reunion, backyard party and wedding season. Lots of booze will be available. We must remember we’re Christians first and must be a testimony for Christ, though we have the liberty to imbibe. Let me share some concerns a believer should consider.

  I must not be a stumbling block for a younger believer. The Bible is clear, it’s a sin to cause another Christian to stumble into addiction (Romans 14, 1 Corinthians 8). We all have a responsibility for the rest of our spiritual family. If my “rights” are a tripping point for a young believer, I must limit my liberty. Now this is not a warning for believers who walk in grace to be stifled because they’re worried about legalistic Christians criticizing them. It’s a warning to make sure we never harm the work of Christ in another weaker believer’s life by abusing our freedom. 

  What am I modeling about biblically handling problems or stress? What am I saying about God’s grace and His work on my life, when after a hard day, I head to the bar for some “Margarita time”? Doesn’t that sound like self-medication rather than Christ dependency? Most believers who use alcohol to self-medicate are appalled at pot smokers who use pot to relax. But what’s the difference, if it’s pot or alcohol? The purpose is the same. Scripture says, “God’s grace is sufficient for me,” (2 Corinthians 12:9). When I depend on alcohol to help me handle stress, am I not questioning God’s promise to give me grace to handle life?

  Am I sending a message, I want to send? Isn’t Hugh Hefner sending an identity message, when nearly every picture of him has his arms draped about some young woman who’s scantily clad? On the opposite end of the equation, wasn’t Mother Teresa sending a message when picture after picture has her either holding a young child or surrounded by young children? So what message am I sending when picture after picture is of me holding a drink in my hand? Doesn’t it potentially say something about what I value? Is it a message I want to send? Is it a message that makes it easier for me to glorify Jesus and share my faith? I think we also should consider what we’re modeling for our children. Do I want to model that good times, social occasions, fun times with friends only take place when there is alcohol present? 

  It’s not wrong to drink. It’s not wrong to enjoy drinking. Martin Luther, the great Reformer was famous for brewing beer and said, “Beer is made by men, wine by God.” But the Bible is clear drunkenness is always wrong.

  As a believer, my life is no longer mine. I’ve been bought back from the slave market of sin. I have the privilege with what I say and do to bring honor to the One who loved me and died for me. By His grace, let’s do that even while enjoying the liberty we have in Christ (1 Corinthians 10:31). 

Looking for quality used Christian books and other types of books at prices lower than even Amazon. Check out our family's online used bookstore at resurrectedreads.com or visit our store at the Waterford Unique Antique Market at 209 North Milwaukee Street in Waterford, WI --  262.534.3500. 

 

When helping isn't...

“Enabling is a way of helping a person that feeds the dysfunction. Helping is being there in a way that does not support the dysfunction.”  Dr. Noelle Nelson

  

  Sometimes being kind, just isn’t…You may have heard the recent news story of some visitors at Yellowstone National Park. On May 9^th, these well-meaning visitors encountered a bison calf. According to witnesses, they thought the calf was “cold,” so they put it in the back of their SUV, and then drove it to a nearby park facility.

  According to the park service, regulations require visitors to maintain a distance of least 25 yards from all wildlife, including bison, elk and deer, and at least 100 yards from bears and wolves. The National Park Service stated, too, moving the calf was “a dangerous activity.” Adult animals are very protective of their young and act aggressively to defend them. They also noted interference can cause the mother bison to reject her offspring.

  When rangers tried to reunite the calf with its mother, it was ostracized by its herd. Later, because the calf was found wandering among visitors’ cars, making it a danger to itself and others, the park service decided to euthanize it after its own herd refused to accept it back. A statement posted on the park service website stated: “Approaching wild animals can drastically affect their well-being and, in this case, their survival…The safety of these animals, as well as human safety, depends on everyone using good judgment.”

  As believers, it can be difficult for us to watch someone, particularly those we love, suffer…so we interfere. Yet, we forget God is sovereign. Suffering, trials, or pain are not accidental. A loving God is in control of the fire with His sovereign hand on the gauge controlling the temperature.  

  On May 29^th, it will be 46 years since the Lord took my Mom Home. One of her best friends, along with her husband, prayed about taking me into their home to rescue me from my prescription drug addicted father (they’d previously taken in many missionary kids over the years). But God did not give them peace to proceed. I am so thankful they didn’t. Yes, it would have made my life much easier but God would have not been able to prune, mold and shape me as He has, if my formative years had been less difficult.
  As the youngest of five children and with my father’s issues, my Mom was sheltering me and spoiling me. She was very well intentioned, yet, I believe if it had continued, I might have had great difficulty ever coming into a healthy adulthood. Yes, it has brought some burdens in my life which I’ve had to work through, including Who God really is and what my relationship with Him is. But, I would not trade my past for anything. I live in the reality of my Mom’s life verse, “As for God, His way is perfect” (Psalm 18:30). My life verse from the book of Job echoes a similar truth, “Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him” (Job 13:15).

  Please do not conclude I have my life all together or think in any way that I do. I don’t. I struggle on this spiritual journey just like everyone else. My greatest obstacle is often trusting God. I sometimes wonder if I doubt more than I trust. Yet, I do not believe I would be as far along as I am in my walk with the Lord, if I had not first gone through some fiery trials.  

  Some years back Jane and I had a very serious discussion about the future of our children. If you know Jane, you probably know one of her greatest gifts is kindness. If Jane struggles with anything, it’s being too kind. As a result, I felt she was helping our three children too much. I asked her, “What if something happened to us? Would they be ready for life…for a healthy adulthood?” I firmly believe, after a godly inheritance, the best gifts we can give our children are roots and wings.

  But it’s very difficult for a parent to watch their child “suffer.” Yet, in suffering, character and maturity are developed. For example, a parent should never talk to their child’s employer. If they’re old enough to hold a job, they’re old enough to problem-solve for themselves. It’s best when children move into the teen years, to not intervene on their behalf with teachers or coaches. Sure, they’re going to be bruised and battered a bit, yet that’s how you grow and mature.

  Tragically, I know of parents who when their child gets in legal trouble, they bail them out, often over and over again. The same happens with finances. You may know an adult in their forties or fifties who’s still financially dependent on their parents. Wow! Talk about being kept an emotional and fiscal invalid. Obviously, each case is different. The normal pattern though is for those in adulthood to take on adult responsibilities. The transition to that begins in those interim years of adolescence.

  This lack of facing consequences and responsibility is a major source of the perpetual immaturity in our society. It’s morally wrong and foolish for our government to rescue those who refuse to take responsibility for themselves. Sadly, the Great Society has resulted in generational dependency and perpetual adolescence. Scripture commands tough love. Check it out for yourself. “For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat” (2 Thessalonians 3:10).

  “Scott, are you saying we should let people go hungry?” No, the Bible says that, not me. Please understand there is also a world of difference between working poor and idle poor. We must always be gracious and generous to the disenfranchised, i.e. children, the disabled, widows, etc. Yet, we are being cruel when we enable people who could take care of themselves in the name of “kindness.” It’s unkind and we’re sentencing them to dependence and perpetual adolescence.

  One of my favorite quotes is from an old Southern Baptist evangelist, Vance Havner, “If they had a social gospel in the days of the prodigal son, somebody would have given him a bed and a sandwich and he never would have gone home.” He was right.

  Sadly, we have become a culture of emotional adolescents, screaming for our rights. We give others control over us when we fail to take personal responsibility for our own well-being. The clear biblical pattern is responsibility precedes rights. Oftentimes saying, “No” and not rescuing someone is the kindest act you can do for them and it’s supremely biblical. 

Looking for quality used Christian books and other types of books at prices lower than even Amazon. Check out our family's online used bookstore at resurrectedreads.com or visit our store at the Waterford Unique Antique Market at 209 North Milwaukee Street in Waterford, WI --  262.534.3500. 

R-E-A-D!

“It seems odd that certain who talk so much of what the Holy Spirit reveals to themselves, should think so little of what He has revealed to others.”  Charles Spurgeon

  To many (including me), the thought of curling up by the fire with a good book sounds like an ideal way to while away an evening or a rainy day. Yet, according to recent studies, about one-quarter of American adults would sooner throw a book — or themselves — in the flames than ever crack the cover.

  The words of Pastor Brad Bigney of the Grace Fellowship Church are very insightful. Oftentimes when Pastor Brad is counseling someone, he will encourage them to read some book which he believes will help them with the issue they are having difficulty with and came to see him about. Many times though the counselee will respond, “But I don’t read.” To which Pastor Bigney responds, “You do now. You’re a Christian!”

  It is nearly impossible to grow spiritually and not read. Being a Christian non-reader typically results in one of two extremes. You end up succumbing to worldliness because you have no idea what the Bible and other good Christian books teach, so you’re stuck in spiritual infancy with minimal growth. Unfortunately, much of what you ingest mentally is from a godless worldview. A key part of spiritual growth and maturity is thinking, being stretched. It’s difficult for that to happen to a non-reader.

  Or, you succumb to Legalism. One of the attractions of Islam is rules. Someone tells you the rules, you do them and you’re a good Muslim. It’s no accident that some 40% of Muslims are illiterate. A large percentage of Muslims are dependent on others to do their thinking for them. Yet, a Christian who will not read might as well be illiterate. What is really the difference between not being able to read and refusing to read?

  Sadly, our educational system is the often the source of a distaste of reading by so many. As students in school, they were forced to read many books which were irrelevant and boring. To add to the repugnance, it was often labeled with that four letter word, home “work.” Pleasure, fun and satisfaction was associated with recess and sports, not reading or academia.

  Just an important side note for parents. If you want to help your children be readers, encourage them to read books which are enjoyable to them, not necessarily educational. The same is true for adults who have fallen off the reading wagon. If they would begin reading again by reading something they truly enjoyed, it would help them grow in their love for reading.

  It’s a bit like eating vegetables. At one point in my life, I despised asparagus. Now that I’ve had asparagus cooked tastefully, I actually enjoy it (I’m still working on cauliflower J). We develop a taste for reading. And reading quality Christian books helps us grow more Christlike.

  Yet, many of us feel we are far too busy to read. What can we do to improve our own reading practices and encourage a culture of reading in our church and family?

  Make time for it. If we’re honest with ourselves, we know we always make time to do what we like. If we begin to cultivate a love of reading, we’ll find each day contains some time to read. If you start with easier books and start by reading during times ordinarily spent watching television or “vegging,” you’ll have an easier time making reading a habit.

  Begin with books which are interesting to YOU. Most non-readers are avid TV or movie watchers. There are certain sports, shows or movies they prefer. Consider reading Christian books which fall into categories which already interest you. For example, if you love chick flicks, consider reading something like Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers. Is your TV stuck on ESPN? Read a book by Christian coach, Tony Dungy. Do you love documentaries? Read a good Christian biography. Are you starting out in marriage or childrearing? Read a quality book on those concerns. I’d suggest ones by Leslie Vernick or Gary Thomas. Even if you love hunting and fishing, there are interesting Christian books written by committed believers about their own experiences of hunting and fishing. Is there an area where you’d like to grow spiritually? Find a quality book in that area.

  Read good books. All of us have watched a movie and wondered as the end credits roll, “Why did I even watch that? What a waste of my time!” I believe I learned this from famed movie critic, Roger Ebert. If a movie doesn’t catch my attention in the first 15 minutes or so, I walk out or turn it off. The same is true with a book. If you read a chapter or two, and it’s not clicking, find another one. Now I find I rarely go to a movie that turns out to be a “turkey.” Do you know why? I rarely will watch a movie without first reading a review on the movie. And I do the same with books.

  For most books, Amazon.com has reviews of the book. They also let you take a look inside of the book at the table of contents and the first few pages. Because books are expensive, I often request a book from our local library, have them secure it for me on library loan. When it comes in, I peruse it to determine if it’s a book I actually want to read or own. In other words, I often “test drive” a book before I buy it.

  I look for books my friends are reading and recommend. In fact, the book we’re reading for our summer reading, The Gospel by J.D. Greear was first recommended to me by a friend

  Make reading your default setting. Unfortunately, smart phones have become our default setting today. If someone is waiting at the doctor’s office or in a restaurant, they immediately look at their phone. Get disconnected. Always keep a book on hand. I don’t go anywhere without a book. If I’m stuck with a train or waiting for an appointment, I have something to read and stretch my soul.

  A charge made by a lost world of Christians is we’re bunch of ignoramuses. Sadly, sometimes it’s true. We haven’t invested the time to read and think through the issues. If we look at the great world shapers of the past couple of centuries, each of them were readers: Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr., Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Gandhi, William Wilberforce, etc. It was said that Theodore Roosevelt read a book a day while serving as president! Of course, if we want to look at the history of Christian thought and influence the list is endless: Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, Martin Luther, John Calvin, John Wesley, or C.S. Lewis. They read the Bible but they went beyond Scripture to read some of the greatest books of history, both fiction and nonfiction. They were avid readers and God used them to impact the Church because of that! Do you want to make a significant difference? You must be a reader! So book it…start today! 

Looking for quality used Christian books and other types of books at prices lower than even Amazon. Check out our family's online used bookstore at resurrectedreads.com or visit our store at the Waterford Unique Antique Market at 209 North Milwaukee Street in Waterford, WI --  262.534.3500.