THE SPIRIT OF ADOPTION

According to Scripture, how a Christian thinks about his relationship with God can go one of two ways ... 

For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, 'Abba, Father'. (Romans 8:15) 

This verse contrasts the mindset of believers who continue to carry the guilt and shame of past sins ... versus those whose faith is in the sufficiency of Christ's atoning sacrifice. 

• The 'spirit of bondage' comes from an inward-looking, legalistic approach to religion. It views God as a temperamental taskmaster, and we ... His trembling subjects. 

• The 'spirit of adoption' is an intimate relationship with our Creator, paid for on Calvary's cross. It views God as a loving Father, and we ... His treasured children. 

There is a vast difference between the way a son serves his father and the way a slave serves his master. Slaves are dutiful, motivated by fear. Sons are eager to be used, motivated by love. 

Many cults (and some Christian denominations) put such an emphasis on 'rule-keeping' that an unrelenting sense of dread hovers over their members. The Lord is presented as an ominous, distant Ruler ... never quite satisfied with anything they do. 

On the contrary, God so loved us that ... He predestined and lovingly planned for us to be adopted to Himself as His own children through Jesus Christ, in accordance with the kind intention and good pleasure of His will. (Ephesians 1:5)

Your walk of faith is crippled when you continue to fight for acceptance with God in your own strength. Guard your heart against that prideful premise ... Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage. (Galatians 5:1)

Receive the 'Spirit of Adoption' by placing all of your faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ. 

VENGEANCE

The Bible lists the attributes of Christian love. One verse in particular mentions what it is not ... It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. (1 Corinthians 13:5)  

Godly love not only forgives an assailant in the 'now', it refuses to keep track of any ill-treatment in the 'past'. Our scars remind us how wounded we were at the hands of an enemy, and any new attack can trigger a defensive, retaliatory reaction. 

Christians are called to lay their weapons down ... Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. (Romans 12:19)

From Calvary's cross, Jesus demonstrated what we're to do ...

The Son of God not only forgave those who had wrongfully condemned Him, He petitioned His Father to do the same ... Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do. (Luke 23:34)

Refusing to keep a record of wrongs is what separates believers from nonbelievers. It is a clear expression of God’s love from a transformed heart. 

Sadly, most justify their personal 'ax to grind' and refuse to 'bury the hatchet'. When they are offended ... out comes the list of past indiscretions, accusations fly, and bygones are no longer bygones.  

But followers of Christ are admonished to ... Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. (Colossians 3:13)

Dredging up painful memories merely opens up old wounds. Don't do that. 

THE MEANING OF LIFE

Throughout history, human beings have reflected on 'the meaning of life'. It is shaped by personal beliefs, values, and experiences ... so there is no universally accepted resolution. Man's worldly mindset and philosophical approach cannot explain his own existence.  

The Bible approaches 'life' in three ways: 

• Physical life is the animating force that takes place between one's birth and death. We are created to move, grow, and reproduce, yet the time we're here is fleeting ... For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. (James 4:14)

• Spiritual Life is unique to humans. We are created with 'souls' in order to have fellowship with God and experience moral consciousness ... And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. (Genesis 2:7)

• Eternal Life is everyone's destiny; a 'never-ending' span, after your physical existence on earth comes to an end. It consists of two outcomes ... All shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation. (John 5:29)

You need not drift along on a sea of soul-vexing contemplation:

A Christian understands that ... The Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life. (Job 33:4)

The definition of 'life' is in Jesus Christ ... I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. (John 14:6)

We belong to Him ... For none of us lives to himself, and no one dies to himself. For if we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. Therefore, whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s. (Romans 14:7-8). 

A 'rebirth' comes with salvation ... For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. (Colossians 3:3). 

Blessed assurance is ours ... Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have God’s Son does not have life. (1 John 5:12)

The meaning of life is found in God's Word, and is divinely imparted into the heart of the redeemed ... not in the egocentric theories of a lost and dying world. 

 

GET OUT OF THE WAY

John the Baptist was sent by God to prepare the way for the Messiah. His message was simple, yet direct ... Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand! (Matthew 3:2)

Down through the ages, faithful pastors, evangelists, and lay people have proclaimed that same profound edict. A lost and dying world has been introduced to Jesus Christ as Savior, and countless souls have been redeemed through faith in His finished work. 

Sadly, in today's churches, the 'messenger' often overshadows the 'message'. We are witnessing preachers become wealthy 'celebrities' who bask in the limelight of their own religious kingdoms. 

The Bible says ... God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. (James 4:6)  

Untold numbers fall at the feet of some charismatic spiritual leader, filtering their religion through their misguided devotion to a man. 

When those who embraced John the Baptist's teaching saw that Jesus was gaining popularity and drawing men to Himself, they were conflicted. John addressed the matter in no uncertain terms ... He must increase, but I must decrease. (John 3:30)

The mission of the church should be to encourage men and women to be followers of Jesus Christ on a personal level. Yet some preachers refuse to do that ... choosing instead to undermine that relationship by appointing themselves as 'the conduit' between the Lord and His people. 

It only leads to an empty false faith. 

When we 'get out of the way', the Gospel message has a tremendous impact on the souls of men. Don't block their view of Calvary.

TRUE REPENTANCE

The short biblical definition of repentance is 'a change of mind that results in a change of action'. Paul summarized it this way ... I preached that they should repent and turn to God and demonstrate their repentance by their deeds. (Acts 26:20) 

The Holy Spirit convicts an unbeliever of his sin and 'grants' repentance. It is not 'self-induced' ... For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)  

True repentance is prompted by ... Godly sorrow that leads to salvation. (2 Corinthians 7:10) 

It is impossible to have genuine faith in Christ as Savior without first having a God given change of perspective. When He allows you to see yourself through His eyes ... your sin, your mortality, your due punishment, and the Gospel message come to light.

Repentance comes from God, is applied by God, and results in glory to God ... 

• The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9)

• Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance? (Romans 2:4)

An invitation to respond to His call ... Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord. (Acts 3:19)

He's waiting, pilgrim ... 

 

HONESTY

Because of mankind's fallen condition, 'honesty' is the exception, not the rule ... Everyone deceives his neighbor, and no one speaks the truth; they have taught their tongue to speak lies; they weary themselves committing iniquity. (Jeremiah 9:5)

The law of God condemns dishonesty ... You shall not testify falsely [that is, lie, withhold, or manipulate the truth] against your neighbor. (Exodus 20:16)

There are eternal consequences for disobedience to His command ... No one who practices deceit will dwell in My house; no one who speaks falsely will stand in My presence. (Psalm 101:7)

Honest people make truthful, accurate, trustworthy statements about life, self, others, and the Lord. Outside of a saving relationship with Jesus Christ, we have no hope. Redemption of the soul brings the transformation required to set things right ... 

You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Therefore, each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. (Ephesians 4:22-25)

Those who claim Christ as Savior but contradict Him, add to His words, or refuse to follow Him are considered 'dishonest' ... Whoever says, 'I know Him', but does not do what He commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. (1 John 2:4)

But remember: 'honesty' is not to be confused with 'transparency' (i.e., expressing everything that goes through your mind) ... When there are many words, wrongdoing is unavoidable, but one who restrains his lips is wise. (Proverbs 10:19)

Truthfulness is a clear sign that the Holy Spirit’s work of sanctification has taken root in your soul. That said ... it should always be accompanied by gentleness.

 

MAKE UP YOUR MIND

Being 'indecisive' about something may be wise at times, especially if you lack pertinent information. However, to be 'irresolute' about the truths found in Scripture is spiritually debilitating ... He who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways. (James 1:6,8)

The Word of God is the sure foundation upon which one's faith is built ... It is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

What the Bible does not condone is wishy-washiness. Having one foot in 'the world' and one foot in 'the Kingdom' creates the war within ... No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. (Matthew 6:24)

Faithless prayer is also considered 'indecisiveness'. The Lord is never brusque ... nor is He impatient with His children. Answers flow unabated from His throne of Grace ... If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. (James 1:5)

Any doubts concerning what God has declared to be true can cripple your walk of faith. But if you remain true to your convictions, you'll not be shaken by some 'new wind of doctrine' ... or swayed by 'political correctness'.

Make up your mind.

THE PREPARATION

We have not yet reached that which decidedly marks the end of the church age - i.e., the rapture, the tribulation, and the unveiling of the Antichrist.

What we are witnessing in the world today is 'the preparation' for those events.

Paul warned of a 'falling away' ... In latter times, some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons. (1 Timothy 4:1) 

Today's church has embraced 'moral relativism', a liberal philosophy that redefines 'right and wrong' and justifies sin in the name of tolerance. 

This apostasy has dire consequences ... Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter. (Isaiah 5:20)  

The Word of God perfectly describes our modern age ... But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. (2 Timothy 3:1-5)

Jesus also spoke of these 'last days' ... For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many. And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows. (Matthew 24:5-8).

The end of the age of Grace is at hand ... Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man. (Luke 21:36)

Make your election sure, pilgrim. 

TRUE WORSHIP

On His way to Galilee, Jesus talked with a Samaritan woman and made this statement ... But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshipers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship Him. (John 4:23)

'True worship' is not an 'outward' expression ... but an 'inward' attitude that acknowledges God’s worthiness and honors Him as the supreme authority over your life. 

Brian Bell - It’s the quickening of conscience by His holiness; the nourishment of mind with His truth; the purifying of imagination by His beauty; the opening of the heart to His love; the surrender of will to His purpose. True worship is not a certain place, a certain time in the week, or a certain format. True worship is a relationship.

Drawing attention to yourself is the opposite of true worship. Adoration is meant for God, for He alone is deserving ... Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created. (Revelation 4:11)

True worship is devoted to an audience of One. 

• They don’t genuflect or lift their hands to be seen by others.
• They don’t sing or play an instrument to be applauded by men. 
• They don’t fast or pray in order to be recognized as pious. 

Jesus said we are to worship 'in spirit'. From His indwelling it must flow ... For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. (Romans 8:5) 

Jesus said we are to worship 'in truth'. There is to be no hidden agenda or unconfessed sin ... Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. (Psalm 139:23-24)

True worship can only come from one whose soul has been redeemed ... he cannot help but offer the sacrifice of praise to the Author and Finisher of his faith. 

REDEMPTION ROAD

The Gospel of Jesus Christ is the path that leads to eternal life. Here are the Lord's 'mile markers' ...

• Acknowledging sin allows honest feelings of remorse to rise to the surface ... For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23) 

• The penalty 'earned' for sin is revealed, and the good news of a 'gift' explained ... For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. (Romans 6:23)

• Grace is defined, faith is defined, and one's inability to earn the gift is made clear ... For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. (Ephesians 2:8,9) 

• Even in your sinful state, love is extended, revealing God's true nature ... But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8)

• God's plan was put in motion, His promise of redemption through faith in Christ ... For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved. (John 3:16-17) 

• The opportunity to receive the gift of salvation is extended ... That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. (Romans 10:9) 

If you have yet to receive Christ as Savior, you may find that reading these verses stirred something within. It is Jesus' personal invitation to lay your burden down ...

Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28) 

Reach out to Him in prayer. It's time ...

Lord, forgive me. I know that I am lost in sin and that I cannot save myself. I believe that you are the only begotten Son of God, that you bore my iniquity on Calvary's cross, and that the grave could not hold you. By faith, I receive the gift of salvation and surrender my life to your Lordship.

Take 'Redemption Road', pilgrim. 

SAVING GRACE

Today's organized religion has corrupted the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Untold numbers are made to believe that they play a part in their own salvation ... 

These people honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me. They worship Me in vain, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men. (Mark 7:6-7)

We have absolutely nothing of value with which to negotiate ... 

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)

Saving Grace is defined as the 'unearned favor' of God toward lost mankind. It was made possible by the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ ...

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. (John 3:16-17)

Salvation is the Lord's work. It begins with Him, it is applied by Him, and it is maintained through Him. 

It's easy to assume that 'our' faith is a contributing factor in a peaceful relationship with God. It's hard to grasp that faith was never 'ours' to begin with ...  

Looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:2)

Don't allow the truth of a 'JESUS PERIOD' theology slip through your fingers. 'Saving Grace' is His gift ... and even your ability to accept it comes from Him.

HIS HEART ... IN YOUR HAND

Like rain to a parched and barren land, the Word of God is what satisfies man's thirsty soul ...

For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. (Isaiah 55:10-11) 

By His Spirit, 'infinite' truths are poured into 'finite' minds, assuring us that the Lord is worthy of all our trust and veneration. The Bible reveals the attributes that belong to God alone: omniscience, omnipotence, omnipresence, immutability, and transcendence ... 

For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts. (Isaiah 55:8-9)

A burgeoning and prolific transformation takes place when you routinely consume the Word of God. 

The truths of Scripture are what bring spiritual vitality and steadfast endurance to your walk by faith. When you commit it to memory, you hold the richness of God’s Word in your soul's repository ... a ready resource protecting you from this world's dark and destructive influence. 

Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly. (Colossians 3:16)

The Bible was given to us for a reason ...

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

Be diligent, take it in, soak it up ... 

Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth. (2 Timothy 2:15)

J C Philpot - To understand scripture, to see in it the mind of the Holy Spirit, to be deeply penetrated with, and inwardly possessed of the heavenly wisdom, holy instruction, and gracious revelation of the counsels and will of God unfolded therein, demands much and continual patient and prayerful study.

God's heart lies within the pages of that Book in your hand. 
Drink deeply from the well, pilgrim. 

THE GATEKEEPER

Gatekeepers were guards stationed at the entrances of ancient cities. They would warn of an approaching enemy who sought to breach their defenses and plunder their resources. 

John Bunyan, the English writer and preacher, likened humanity to a city with five gates. He called them the Ear-gate, Eye-gate, Mouth-gate, Nose-gate, and Feel-gate. In other words, our five senses are the entryways through which we interact with this lost and dying world. 

Sadly, unbelievers inevitably fall prey to Satan's devastating encroachment.  

But when temptation seeks to gain entrance into the life of a believer, the Holy Spirit acts as the Divine Gatekeeper of his soul. He warns of any threat to a Christian's spiritual wellbeing (and the consequences of yielding to its 'siren song') ... 'This is dangerous, don't open the gate'. 

A promise ... God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation make also the way of escape, that ye may be able to endure it. (1 Corinthians 10:13)

If you choose to ignore the Gatekeeper, you've put yourself in jeopardy. But if the promptings of the Spirit and the Word of God are heeded, peace and security are yours ...

My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge, my savior. (2 Samuel 22:3)

The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him. (Nahum 1:7)

But the Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard you from the evil one. (2 Thessalonians 3:3)

He 'stands at the ready' ... and will steadfastly guard your walk of faith.  

THE GREAT I AM

Biblically, calling a man a 'fool' is not a criticism of his mental acuity, but the casting of aspersions on his immoral behavior. 

In order to have a reprobate lifestyle free of guilt ... The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. (Psalm 53:1)

But there is no defense for that arbitrary conclusion ... For the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse. (Romans 1:20) 

Though mankind has nature's witness of God's existence and character, the 'fool' chooses to suppress the evidence ... They turned the truth of God into a lie and worshipped and served created things rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen. (Romans 1:25)  

Man was made to 'worship' something. If it isn't God, he commits idolatry. He'll put his faith in a compelling influencer, a man-made institution, unprovable scientific theories, worldly possessions, or the most ungovernable of all idols ... himself.

Without an admission that God exists, the 'fool' leads a lawless life. He has no moral compass and defines 'right and wrong' according to his own moment-by-moment preferences ... There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death. (Proverbs 14:12)

There is a soon-coming day when the 'fool' will confess he was wrong. 

Jesus announced ... As surely as I live, says the Lord, every knee will bow before Me; every tongue will acknowledge God. (Romans 14:11)

For He is 'The Great I Am' ... 

EXPIATION AND PROPITIATION

These two words perfectly describe the finished work of Jesus Christ, yet they refer to different aspects. 'Expiation' focuses on the removal of sin's consequences, while 'propitiation' focuses on the appeasing of God's wrath. 

Expiation: The Son of God gave His life to atone for man's sin. For a believer, the record of offenses has been expunged. 'Guilt' is replaced by 'innocence' ... If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)

Propitiation: Jesus' death satisfied divine justice. God's righteous anger toward sin was poured out on the sacrificial Lamb who bore it ... There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. (Romans 8:1)

Then the 'walk of faith' begins ...  

'Justification' is the one-time act wherein the sinner is made clean in the eyes of God ... For he hath made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him. (2 Corinthians 5:21). 

'Sanctification' is the ongoing process whereby believers are delivered from the power of sin in their lives ... And I am sure of this, that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1:6)

'Glorification' is when we are removed from the very presence of sin ... And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. (1 Peter 5:10) 

Expiation, propitiation, justification, sanctification, and glorification - we've many reasons to praise the Lord.

TWO WERE TAKEN

Two individuals in the Bible never died... 

Enoch was a seventh-generation descendant of Adam through Seth. He was the father of Methuselah and the great-grandfather of Noah. A significant Biblical patriarch ... Enoch walked with God, and then he was no more because God took him. (Genesis 5:24) 

Elijah lived several centuries after Enoch during the reign of kings Ahab and Ahaziah (when Israel existed as a divided kingdom). A great prophet and miracle worker ... Suddenly, a chariot of fire and horses of fire appeared, and Elijah went up to heaven in a whirlwind. (2 Kings 2:11)

What they held in common was an uncompromised faithfulness to God and His purpose.  

There are those who believe that Enoch and Elijah play a strategic role in end-time events. One theory is that they represent the two witnesses appointed by God during the tribulation (neither is mentioned by name) ... And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy one thousand two hundred and sixty days, clothed in sackcloth. (Revelation 11:3) 

Other passages are less ambiguous, specifically concerning Elijah:

• God announced ... Behold, I am going to send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and terrible day of the Lord. (Malachi 4:5). 

• Some thought Christ was Elijah returned ... When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, He asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”(Matthew 16:13-14)

• On the Mount of Transfiguration... As He prayed, the appearance of His face was altered, and His robe became white and glistening. And behold, two men talked with Him, who were Moses and Elijah, (Luke 9:29-30)

The specific reason for taking Enoch and Elijah to heaven without dying is a mystery for now. And according to God, that's okay ... For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts. (Isaiah 55:9) 

Even though our finite minds cannot fully comprehend the Lord's intent, we are to trust that His way is perfect. 

THE DEAFENING SILENCE

Those who truly abide in Christ know to reign in their human emotions when troubles come. They've learned to instantly lay aside 'knee-jerk' reactions to life's difficulties. Paul's admonition has proven to be a trustworthy course of action ...

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)

But what about the times when prayer appears to fall on deaf ears? 

When a heart-wrenching situation drags on with no relief, the mind can take a dark turn. You conclude that God doesn’t care about your personal struggle, and you're tempted to rely on your own devices to resolve it.

Don't do that. 

For your sanctification to take root, faith must be tested ... Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you. (1 Peter 4:12)

God sometimes uses 'deafening silence' to transform you into the likeness of His Son. Crushed under the weight of doubt and fear, seemingly exiled to a spiritual wilderness, your soul finally issues a desperate cry of unconditional surrender ... and that parched desert place is flooded with 'living water'. 

And ... you come to realize that He never left your side. 

 

SACRILEGE

That word has Latin roots: sacer (sacred) and legere (steal). The term has come to mean 'irreverence toward anything related to God'. A notable example can be found in Matthew 21:12-13 ...  

Then Jesus went into the temple of God and drove out all those who bought and sold in the temple, and overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who sold doves. And He said to them, “It is written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer,’ but you have made it a ‘den of thieves.’ ” 

Sadly, this type of 'sacrilege' continues today. Many churches have become places of business, rather than sanctuaries of worship. If Christ came now ... how many things that are practised under the 'cloak of religion' would He find abhorrent?

Certain denominations 'steal' that which is meant for God alone and apply it to people, canonizing biblical characters and historical figures. Those who pray to saints and foster reverence toward icons and relics are also guilty of 'sacrilege' ...

For they exchanged the truth of God for falsehood, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen. (Romans 1:25)

Of course, one of the more blatant (yet shamefully common) forms of sacrilege is the profaning of God’s name, or that of His Son. It is in direct violation of the commandment in Exodus 20:7. When blasphemous words fall upon our ears, it should make us cringe. ... 

Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh His name in vain.

Spurgeon viewed 'sacrilege' as a serious offense against God. He emphasized that it extends beyond physical acts to include spiritual hypocrisy ... the preaching of holiness while indulging in sin. 

The warning comes ... But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. (James 1:22-24)

Refuse to be tainted by those things which come against the holiness of God. 

OUR SUSTAINER

Scripture reveals that it is by Jesus Christ that everything exists ...  

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. (John 1:1-3)

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:14)

And Jesus continues to uphold His creation ... 

The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being, sustaining all things by His powerful word. (Hebrews 1:3)

He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. (Colossians 1:17)

Mankind represents the pinnacle of the 'created' and 'sustained' universe. Every breath, every heartbeat, every moment of your life ... is under His Lordship.

But know this: The Gospel changed the natural order of things. 

The idea that a sinner can be transformed from a 'made' thing into a 'birthed' child of God is amazing. Heaven stands in awe, and hell shakes at the thought. 

We have an all-powerful Father who lovingly cares for His own ... The Lord is the sustainer of my soul. (Psalm 54:4)

If you feel that your life is falling apart, bring that brokenness before the Throne of Grace ... Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you. (Psalm 55:22)

The same God who keeps the planets in orbit ... holds your life in His hands. 

THE TROUBLED HEART

Picture the upper room. 

Jesus and His disciples have assembled to partake of the 'last supper'. They listen intently as He reveals what is about to take place ... that one of them will betray Him, that His death by crucifixion has arrived, and that Peter will deny he even knows Him.

His words greatly upset them. Christ sees both the confusion and trepidation that rose in their minds and offers the following admonition ... 

Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. (John 14:1-3)

Even though today's believers aren't in the same exact situation as those early followers of Christ, this beloved passage still resonates. As we navigate the stormy sea of end-time events and an ever-increasing evil, anxiety and fear can take root ...

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. (Ephesians 6:12)

Jesus' precious promise is meant to comfort our weary souls. Under His Lordship, there exists a perfect place of rest. We are hidden in Him, and the indwelling Holy Spirit equips us for the battle ... 

And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. (Romans 5:3-5)

Unbelievers are watching how you respond to all that's going on in the world. Your 'untroubled' demeanor speaks volumes, so don't be surprised when questions come ... 

Sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear. (1 Peter 3:15)

Keep your eyes fixed on eternity, pilgrim. 

JESUS AND THE SUBJECT OF HELL

Churches that preach an 'ethereal' kind of Jesus picture Him as a loving, gentle, and forgiving Savior who accepts all people as they are. They brush aside any Scripture that calls for total surrender to His Lordship and a death to 'self'. 

They've corrupted the term 'grace' ... turning it into a license to sin.  

True 'saving faith' bears this testimony ... I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)

To only think of Jesus as a 'meek and mild' deity who came to serve mankind in general ... is nothing but an egocentric religious worldview. The Bible paints a much different image of His divine purpose and nature. 

His teachings are authoritative, and His words were meant to shake one's soul. 

As a matter of fact, Christ never shied away from the subject of 'hell'. He boldly addressed five things about it: 

Reality: Jesus taught that hell is not merely 'figurative or symbolic', but a real destination for the lost ... where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.(Mark 9:48)

Rebellion: He revealed that hell is for those who (like Satan) have rebelled against God ... Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels'. (Matthew 25:41)

Regret: Christ doesn't portray hell as a pleasant place for those steeped in sin (or even a neutral type of existence). To the contrary, it is full of pain and regret ... There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Matthew 8:12)

Relentlessness: Based on Jesus’ teaching, hell is not temporary. There is absolutely no 'exit' or 'respite' from the eternal consequences of unforgiven sin ... His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire. (Luke 3:17)

Reconciliation: Thankfully, there is a way to escape hell before entering. Through faith in Christ, you can be reconciled to God ... Truly, truly, I say to you, the one who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life. (John 5:24)

If you have yet to trust Him, do it now. 

There is a hell to shun and a heaven to gain. 

GOD'S GOODNESS

Satan would have you think of God as an ill-tempered, unbending taskmaster. Yet the Gospel of Jesus Christ paints a much different picture ... 

For God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. (John 3:16-17)

Paul came against the hypocrisy of those who maliciously denounced the sins they saw in others. Their self-righteous indignation was undoubtedly rooted in a false impression of God's character ...

And do you think this, O man, you who judge those practicing such things, and doing the same, that you will escape the judgment of God? Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance? (Romans 2:3-4)

'The goodness of God' in the original Greek refers to His unconstrained kindness toward lost mankind ... the quality of being warmhearted, considerate, humane, gentle, and sympathetic.

His righteous anger was forever appeased when Jesus bore our sins on Calvary's cross ... Therefore, since we have now been justified by His blood, we will be saved from the wrath of God through Him. (Romans 5:9)

It is not the fear of eternal punishment that leads people to repent of their sins. The revelation of God's unwarranted kindness toward sinners is what brings us to our knees. He is not a heartless dictator but a merciful, forgiving, loving God ... Who desires that all people be saved and come to a knowledge of the truth. (1 Timothy 2:4)

But know this ... 
There remains an intense fury toward those who reject the Lord's sacrifice for sin ...  He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him. (John 3:36)

Experience 'God's goodness'.