Transformed Lives Transforming The World

Questions...Sin

Question: Are there levels of sin?

Answer:  No.  As far as I can see Scripture does not establish levels of sin.  All sin is disobedience to God, and all sin separates us from Him because He is holy.  All sin separates us from God but for those who repent and follow Christ sin can be forgiven through Jesus' death on the cross.

Someone might mention the sin of blaspheme against the Holy Spirit (which Jesus speaks of in Matthew 12 and Mark 3) as an exception to the statement that there are no levels of sin, because Jesus says that this particular sin will never be forgiven.  However, in the context in which this sin comes up the blaspheme of the Holy Spirit is also a complete rejection of who Jesus Christ is.  The Pharisees had attributed the miracles that Jesus had performed to the power of Satan.  Since Jesus was doing these by the power of the Holy Spirit he pointed out to the Pharisees that they were blaspheming the Holy Spirit, an unforgivable sin.  So this is not really an exception, because in willfully rejecting Jesus Christ the Pharisees are denying the only means of forgiveness for their sins and their sin will receive the same punishment as all other sin that is not covered by the blood of Jesus Christ.

Although there are no levels of sin, the temporal ramifications and consequences of sin can differ greatly.  The negative effects and consequences of murder are far greater than the consequences of speaking a harsh word to someone.  Both are sin, God hates both, and both incur the same eternal punishment.  However, murder is going to incur greater temporal consequences.  As Christ followers we should seek to avoid all sin as a loving act of worship toward God.

(Mike Crain)

Questions from Sunday Continued... On Divorce

Question: How can people doing something labeled as adultery in the books of Matthew and Mark enter the kingdom of God since Paul says in 1 Corinthians 6 that the adulterer won't enter the kingdom of God, and is the second marriage forever adultery?

See Matthew 5:32, Mark 10:11, and 1 Cor. 6:9-10 

First and foremost it is incredibly important that we understand that it is impossible for anyone to live a righteous enough life to enter into the Kingdom of God.  Because we have all sinned and if we only sinned once it would be enough to tarnish us to the point that we could not enter in to a relationship with a pure and perfect (Holy) God.  That one sin would keep us out of heaven.  Paul says in Romans 3 that no one is righteous.

We would all probably admit to much more than just one sin.  So at this point we are all doomed to hell based on our own personal righteousness.  This is why it is awesome to know that Christ lived, died, and rose so that we could take on his righteousness.  He was perfect and without even one sin, yet he died in our place as a sinner/adulterer/liar/cheat/idolaterer.  He took my sin and I received his perfection. Because of Christ no matter what my area of unrighteousness might be, God looks on me as perfect like Christ.  Our salvation is because of what Christ did, not based on our own personal righteousness.  This is one reason Paul says in Ephesians we are saved by grace not by works.

Salvation doesn't come through our works but through Christ's work.  Therefore, living absent of adultery or some other sin is not going to get us to heaven.  

When Paul makes the statement that he made in 1 Corinthians 6 it is important to read on to verse 11 and following.  We see that he was saying that many of us were these things in the past.  It was something that was no longer part of who they were.  Because those sins were paid for with the work of Christ we are no long labeled with those labels.  We are new creations.  Those were the old ways that we lived in.  Now we are reborn, made new, born again.  

If we are using this grace as a license to freely sin then we are probably not new creations, but just religious people that are playing games and we have never really accepted the grace that Jesus offered to us on the Cross.  We are probably not really followers of Christ.

The second way I want to answer would be similar to the way we answered this question in our sermon on Matthew 19 on February 1st, 2009.

For those that have been remarried is the second or third marriage continually adultery? No, but it is important for the persons to acknowledge and ask for forgiveness and turn from that way of life, God will forgive.  I think that Jesus legitimizes the second marriage in Matthew 19, and He never says divorce your current wife and go back to your first.  I think it is important to recognize the the beginnings of a relationship might have been adultery, now we must repent and probably apologize to those that have been hurt, but Jesus is not asking anyone to go and get another divorce, for God hates divorce.  It is important to not go back to the old ways but to live as God desires from that moment on.  Remembering that obedience doesn't save us, but obedience is our grateful response to the forgiveness that Jesus has given us.

To Drink or Not to Drink...

Here's a question that comes across my desk from time to time..."What is the church's position on drinking alcohol?" From early on I made the decision that we would always endeavor to position ourselves regarding social issues in a fair and responsible manner based on our understanding of biblical truth. The case here is no different.

To begin with, the Bible does not prohibit drinking, nor does it say it's sinful to do so. Drinking too much, or drinking irresponsibly is certainly prohibited, and is sinful (cf. Ephesians 5:18). The first thing I always say when asked this question is; if a person decides to include drinking alcohol as a part of their lifestyle, it should always be consumed in moderation, never in excess, and always responsibly.

The next point to this discussion, as if the first one weren't hard enough to digest for a lot of us, is that we're instructed not to let anyone else make judgments about us for the decision we make about what we choose we make (cf. Colossians 2:16-23). It stands to reason that if we aren't supposed to let others judge us, then we aren't supposed to judge them when our opinions differ in matters of personal choice. There's only one judge, and it's not you or me (cf. James 4:12).

Close on the heels of this sentiment is the teaching of Paul that whatever decision a person makes about personal preference issues, the best thing to do is to mind your own business and let everyone else do the same, all while remembering our obligation to set good examples to younger or less mature believers (Romans 14:1-22). What someone else does really isn't any of my business...or yours.

Personally, I don't drink. I just don't, and I never have. I've tried it, and personally, I'd rather have a Coke. I see too many problems associated with drinking alcohol to let it be a part of my life. That's the decision I've made, and I'm happy with my decision.

So you get to make your own decision...in fact you have to. Whatever decision you make, I won't judge you, but I will remind you, that whether you choose to drink alcohol or not, the above responsibilities are yours to attend.

(Ed Saucier)

Hate

The following question was emailed in regarding our sermon series Shout or Silent. 

Q:  Concerning sermon #5 (sex is more than a moment:  marriage, divorce, adultery, remarriage, and homosexuality), how does one deal with these issues without sounding condemning or even without adding to the hate that is already out there?

A: I think the only possible way for us to accomplish this task is to approach these issues with a proper view of God and humanity.  Hate is most often born out of a confusion about who we are and who God is.  The only thing that makes hate possible for those that struggle with other sins is to forget or minimize my own sin.  We we remember God's holiness we are then reminded of our own imperfections.  Seeing those imperfections makes it impossible to feel judgment or hatred for someone else who has their own imperfections.  And imperfections is the wrong word--it lacks power or honesty.  Sinfulness has become a churchy word.  What about hideousness?  Isn't that how we see the sins of others?  We have imperfections, but others are hideous.  How else can we explain someone listening to a sermon and while the preacher is talking about the sins of another, they can whisper, "it's gross; its an abomination."  I'll bet they didn't repent of their sin with those terms.  They probably said, "Well, God I sort of messed up.  I'm not perfect." Yet the sin of another is an abomination, a hideous sight.  Only when we view our own sin with that same lens are we then able to honestly and compassionately approach the topics which we have recently covered.  It is why that sermon began with Romans 3.23 "For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God."  All of us have sexually sinned.  Once we admit that, feel that, and recognize our own hideous nature, can we then properly approach the words of Jesus in the way that we did.  It is tempting to ignore tough sermons or to edit the Bible to our own liking.  Yet honesty to the text demands that we preach the whole Bible, but honesty to God and ourselves demands that we do so while admitting our own failures for every command.  I am a sinner that speaks to other sinners guiding them to the same Source of salvation that rescued me and called me his own.  It would take a total lack of compassion for me to remain silent--the same lack of compassion that causes others to shout in hate.

(Kevin Thompson)   

Lingering Thoughts on Monday, February 22nd...

Lingering Thoughts...

"Questions"

Our teaching time at Community Bible was reserved for questions from our home groups and for those in attendance in worship today.  It was a great time of looking at the issues that are important to our community of believers.  I am thankful for both Kevin and Ed faithfully handling some difficult questions and subjects during all four services at CBC. 

When Kevin asked me to handle receiving and asking questions for the Q & A at the Fort Smith campus I really thought it would be a breeze.  Just field some questions and pass the hot potatoes up to Kevin.  This was dashed quickly as the questions began being asked, passed to me, and sent via text to my phone.  I was overwhelmed by the struggle, doubt, and need represented by the questions being asked. As Kevin would answer a previous question I was in mental torment wondering which of the questions I should ask next.  Many of them screamed to be answered.  As a result (and without thinking) I suddenly was committing our pastoral team to answering many of the remaining questions on the blog this week!

The result of this "shout" is this week's blog series will deal with some of the questions texted in this morning that went unanswered during our discussion during worship this week.  Each day a different member of our leadership team will respond to two or three questions.  I hope you enjoy reading the blog this week.

________________________________________________________

1. How do I keep going strong and in my faith with God even though my parents are splitting up and it is effecting me tremendously, with church and in school?

Dear questioner this was one of the most heart breaking questions submitted to me this morning.  I tried my hardest to get this question to the stage but we just ran out of time.  I pray for this situation and am encouraged by your hope to remain faithful amidst a very difficult season in your life.  My greatest word of encouragement to you is to continue to trust in the God who has inspired your faith.  It will be easy in the days ahead to trust in your strength to remain a good child, student, and Christian...however at the root of who you are is a failed human being.  No matter how hard you try to please all the people in your life you will ultimately fail.  It is clear that the cross has meant something to you for salvation.  Nevertheless, the cross remains as the true and only source of strength for your day to day life as well.  Your only hope in this dark time in your life is the light of Jesus.  It may not seem that you have the strength to lift and bear the cross...however, that is exactly why we have the gospel!  In your greatest time of weakness Jesus can be proclaimed yet again as your savior and your sustainer.

2. How can you disagree with your parents “over the top” views while still honoring them especially since they are your financial provider?

I do not believe that honoring your parents mean you have to agree with them across the board on every issue.  It is difficult to distinguish what you mean about "over the top" views because it could be their theological leanings or their political ones.  That would add some weight to what specifically you must do.  However, not know the specifics I would suggest charting a course not of agreement to keep the peace (or the money) but of open and respectful discourse.  Again you do not have to agree with them to respect them, but you do need to make sure the conversation does not turn ugly.  If it is a particular subject that provides tense moments (and are simply philosophical) then agree to discuss other things.  If the subject matter is theological or ideological you may have to peacefully disagree while still respecting the boundaries created by your parents with these things in mind.  Either way you can honor your parents greatly by hearing what they have to say, not arguing over it, and respectfully stating your case. Now when the money dries up its every family member for themselves :)

Hard to Take

• Reminder from Sunday's sermon: hard words lead to life and harsh words lead to destruction
• Sometimes the hard words that we say to people will feel harsh to them.  Sometimes hard words are confrontational words, as we have seen in several sermons from the Shout or Silence series. Even though the these words will hopefully lead to life they are not always received well by the person to whom we speak them.  Depending on their personal circumstances and on how sensitive they are they may receive hard words as harsh words, but that does not necessarily make them harsh words.  It is our duty to speak hard words even if they are taken as harsh words, but we must do so discerningly, in love, with grace, and with a clear conscience while seeking life for the other person. 
• On the flip side, we need to be willing to receive hard words.  Sometimes those hard words may feel harsh, and it seems very natural to become defensive when something difficult is spoken to us.  However, if we desire for others to receive hard words from us then we need to be willing to listen to hard words from other people.  Sometimes we have to get past our own hurt feelings and bruised ego in order to see how the hard words we receive from others are leading to life. 
• So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. - Matthew 7:12 

(Mike Crain) 

MEMORY VERSE: Matthew 7:12

“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.

DAILY READING: Matthew 28

FOR DEEPER STUDY OF MATTHEW:

In this final reading out of the book of Matthew the great lesson is that we are to take the Resurrection of our Savior to the world.  We are to teach them the truth about the Christ.  We can study this gospel and have vast knowledge of the truth, but if we aren't communicating the truth practically as we live our lives then we are doing something that is very unchristian.  Christ gave his disciples their marching orders, "Go and make disciples..." We all have this challenge as well.  We are all gifted and responsible for the unique way that God wants us to accomplish our part of this mission.  Here at Community Bible Church our paraphrase of the Great Commission is..."Transformed Lives Transforming the World"

(Mark Kincannon) 

The closer they are the harsher the words

As we are wrapping up this sermon series about the words that we speak, one of the things that occurred to me is the fact that the closer people are to me, the easier it is for me to speak words that are harsh.  You would think that the people that I love the most would be the last people for me to hurt with my words.  Yet, I've noticed that I feel more free with my words with the people that I'm the closest to.  I guess I think that since they are close to me that they know what I really mean and that I don't really want to hurt them.  Or, maybe I think that since they are my loved ones that they will forgive me. With some family members I probably figure that they are just stuck with me so I tend to not be as careful about what I say to them.  It could be that I'm just lazy and selfish and I don't want work hard to be kind to them and put them and their feelings before my own.  Who knows what the real reason is.   

Have you notice how easy it is to speak harsh words to your spouse or kids or parents or siblings or other close family or friends? Or is it just me that has this tendency? 

MEMORY VERSE: Matthew 7:12

“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.

DAILY READING: Matthew 26-27

FOR DEEPER STUDY OF MATTHEW:

Read Psalm 22 and compare it to the situation that Jesus was encountering, as Jesus was hanging on the cross he quotes the first line from this Psalm.  Notice how the following verses of this Psalm are similar to the situation that Jesus was in hundreds of years later.  

 Take a look at this selection from the ESV Study Bible regarding Psalm 22 and Matthew 27.

Psalm 22. This psalm has the appearance of an especially anguished individual lament, where the suffering comes from the attacks of unscrupulous people and is intensified by the mockery of those who should feel sympathy; this person, nevertheless, looks forward to vindication and joyful worship with the rest of God's people. However, in view of its prominent place in the crucifixion story, Christian readers have found in it a description of the sufferings of Jesus. Many Christians have taken it as a straight prediction of Jesus' sufferings, as if the primary function of the psalm was to foretell the work of the Savior; others have read it as a lament in its OT context, with a “fuller meaning” revealed by Jesus' use of it. It is better to see the psalm as providing a lament for the innocent sufferer, and then to see how all the Gospels use this to portray Jesus as the innocent sufferer par excellence. Consider how Matthew 27 uses the psalm. Matthew 27:35 echoes Ps. 22:18 (dividing the garments by lot); Matt. 27:39 echoes Ps. 22:7 (wagging heads); Matt. 27:43 echoes Ps. 22:8 (the derisive challenge for God to rescue him); and Matt. 27:46 cites Ps. 22:1 (Jesus crying out). See chart. Matthew presents Jesus as a thoroughly good and faithful person who is brutally and unjustly executed, and mocked by those who should have supported him. But this portrayal of Jesus in light of Psalm 22allows Christ's followers as well to expect some kind of vindication, as vv. 22–31 describe; and they are not disappointed as they read the resurrection account. Hebrews 2:12 cites Ps. 22:22, from the vindication section, to show that Jesus shares the humanity of his followers, since he calls them “brothers.” To make this argument, the author of Hebrews must also see Jesus as the ideal human being, which means he is using the psalm much as the Gospels do.

(Mark Kincannon) 

Restrained Speech

"Whoever restrains his words has knowledge, and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding.  Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent." Proverbs 17.27-28

One might think that with knowledge comes more speech.  It seems like it should be that way.  I would write this verse, "whoever gains knowledge has less need to restrain his/her words."  Yet the Bible isn't written by me and verse 27 gives the opposite projection--as knowledge increases so does the amount that we restrain our speech.  There is a direct correlation between restraint and knowledge. 

Whenever we speak a word without restraint, that is evidence that our vision of God is lacking.  Our ignorance about him is expressed in careless words.  This concept changes how we respond when we feel conviction over the words we speak.  Instead of working harder to keep from saying something careless the next time, the only effective way to restrain our speech is to pursue a better vision of God.  As our understanding of God increases, our speech improves as a simple byproduct. 

If you have felt conviction in this series; if this passage in Proverbs is convicting or if the words of Jesus from Matthew 12.36 are frightening, understand them as an invitation by God to get a better glimpse of who he is.  For it is no accident that after the prophet Isaiah saw God he responded by saying, "Woe is me!  For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips." (Isaiah 6.5) 

(Kevin Thompson)   

MEMORY VERSE: Matthew 7:12

“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.

DAILY READING: Matthew 24-25

FOR DEEPER STUDY OF MATTHEW:

The 3rd section of this chapter deals with the type of attitude that Jesus' followers should have during the last days?  Verse 32 and following describe the attitude we should have.  Sum up this attitude in your own words?  In Matthew 24:42-25:46 Jesus tells four parables that drive home his point.  Which parable makes this point most clear for you?

(Mark Kincannon) 

Simple Things...

     I was given a good piece of advice several years ago that I’ve tried to follow ever since in regard to doing the work of a pastor and a teacher; keep it simple enough for kids to understand it, then maybe the adults will stand a chance. Not that simple is hard for me, because it isn’t. It’s my preferred approach. So I want to pass along a few simple things…

            First, John Blanchard, a long time friend of mine, passed along one of his favorite quotes to me not long after I graduated from college and was working toward my seminary degree. It was from the works of John Calvin: “There is nothing more slippery or loose than the tongue.” I’ve never forgotten that.

A few years after that Chuck Swindoll wrote a book called, Growing Strong In The Seasons of Life. I bought it, read it, loved it, loaned it out and haven’t seen it in years. If you have my copy…give it back…you’ve had it long enough. In the early chapters (and that’s as close as I can get because, as I said, I haven’t seen my copy in years) Chuck tells a story about an old slate grave marker in a very old English churchyard. The barely visible words let the reader know the words were written in memory of a lady whose name was Arabella Young. Let me quote it for you, because I have it firmly committed to memory:

 

‘Neath This Stone, a Lump of Clay,

Lies Arabella Young,

Who, on the Twenty-fourth of May,

Began to Hold her Tongue.

 

I think I’ll add one more easy-to-remember point worth pondering, but I don’t have a clue where I got it. If you know, let me know and I’ll give her or him their props first chance I have.

 

If your lips would keep from slips,

Five things observe with care;

Of whom you speak,

To whom you speak,

And what, and when, and where.

 

            If it doesn’t make sense to you, maybe you can ask a kid. I bet they get it.

 

(Ed Saucier)

MEMORY VERSE: Matthew 7:12

“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.

DAILY READING: Matthew 24

FOR DEEPER STUDY OF MATTHEW:

The second section of Jesus' response to the disciples questions about the end times is found in Matthew 24:15-31.  In these verses we see a general description of the times leading up to the 2nd coming and then some comments about the 2nd coming.  Verse 15 refers us to the prophet Daniel.  You can read in Daniel 9-12 more about this.  What are some characteristics of this age that Jesus describes before he comes again?

What do you think about the verses that describe Christ's return?  There are different views of how to interpret verses 27-31?  Some believe this is a literal description, others believe these are figurative descriptions that are basically reemphasizing that it will be clear when the return of the Christ happens, so don't be led astray by false-Christ's? 

What do you think, and why?

(Mark Kincannon) 

Lingering Thoughts on Monday February 16th...

Lingering Thoughts...

"Lets Give This a Try!"

 

As we draw to a close the Shout or Silent (what I think has been a powerful and thought provoking)  Series this week its time for us to consider putting into action the points we have talked about over the past two months.  This is not a matter of agreeing or disagreeing some of the specific opinions shared.  What I am considering is the key point of the potential healing or harm that our voice can bring.  As we have learned there are moments where we not only should but must shout about certain hot button topics.  On the other hand there are times where we should remain silent and in doing so are probably speaking louder than you would if you were shouting.  As our pastor Ed said today, "perhaps the thing that is needs to be changed most in our world is the way we speak.  Anything less would be hypocrisy."  Why don't we then give this a try today.

 

Now obedience is a daily undertaking done through grace, faith, and discipline.  With this in mind I am not asking us to restructure every bit of our speech today, tomorrow or this week.  However, we will NEVER remove the harsh words from our language and heart until we start....somewhere...anywhere.  My test for us is to begin with that one small, nagging, and rude part of our personal lectionary. 

 

For me, as I mentioned last week, is the harsh words that so easily spill when driving...aimed at my fellow motorists.  I tend to get frustrated,quick, and down right mean towards other driver saying, "get off my tail you knucklehead."  Confessionaly, sometimes my knucklehead is a bit more colorful.  I shoot dirty looks, shake my head, and grit my teeth at them all of which are non-verbal harsh words!  This is a very small part of my day but nevertheless it is a consistent part and a struggle for me.  Honestly, how dare I come to the church to write, speak, and teach words of grace when I have shown none on the commute there?

 

What is yours?  Driving?  With and toward your children? How about with a co-worker or employee?  Your spouse?  In your emails?  Is it gossip?

 

When you have yours then jump down to the number one.  Now I am not looking for the big daddy words today...just those small, yet consistent parts of your daily speech (remember we have to start somewhere).

 

Now here are our action steps:

1. Pray wherever it is you struggle with your harsh words.  A quick prayer for reminder during your time of struggle.  Mine will be from the wheel of my car.

2. Think and find words of praise to fill the void left by our lack of harsh words.  Consider a podcast of a preacher you like or maybe a new worship CD.  If you drive like me you will need to be creative and have lots of praise gap fillers!

3. A humility to seek grace when you let a harsh word fly!  Never forget you a fallen, sinful, fleshly human constantly in need of being reminded of the grace of Jesus Christ.

4. Thanksgiving for Jesus for the moments that used to be filled with harsh words that are now filled with silence.  You can only do what you do because of the mercy of our loving God so never forget to thank Him.

5. Readiness to add any steps you may personally need.  Get creative because you may have an irritating boss that is easier to hit with harsh words who you see many times throughout the day. 

 

There are five small steps you can take to remove harsh words from your vocabulary in a constant situation.  Start with one specific relationship or area and by grace move forward.   Go ahead give it a shot.  I dare you, you knucklehead!  Oops, I have to get to work on step one!

 

(Joel Reynolds writes every day at the Converge Students Blog)

 

 

MEMORY VERSE: Matthew 7:12

“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.

DAILY READING: Matthew 24

FOR DEEPER STUDY OF MATTHEW:

As we talked about yesterday it is easier to look at Jesus' teaching about the last days if we look at it in sections.  The first section is the state of the world found in 24:1-14.  What do you notice about the way Jesus describes the world before his 2nd coming in verses 4-8?  Verse eight mentions the phrase birth pains, this is a commonly used phrase which was used to describe terrible suffering.

Verse 9-13 begin with Jesus saying "they will deliver you up and you will be put to death,"  who is the you he is talking about?  See verse 1 and 3.  What do these verses tell us about the state of things leading up to Jesus 2nd coming?

Finally amidst the overwhelmingly negative atmosphere we have a something positive happening during the last days.  What does verse 14 tell us will be happening?

(Mark Kincannon) 

The Way

Matthew 7:13-14 - Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. 14 For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.

A couple of observations about the gates and the ways that lead to them.

The gates/ways have to do with the end result- Wide and easy describe the gate and the way that lead to destruction, but what defines them is that they lead to destruction.  The same is true of the gate and the way that lead to life.  What defines them is that they lead to life.  A lot of times I do not think of where my thoughts, choices, and actions are leading to, because it is easier to focus on their immediate results.  However, everything we do is leading to destruction or to life, not just eternally (Christ has handled that) but in our own earthly lives and in the lives of others.  What are your thoughts, choices, and actions leading to? 

The way that leads to life is not the default way- This passage says that few people find the way that leads to life.  The word find is not used at all in regards to the road that leads to destruction. Apparently it is not something that people need to look for.  It does not need to be sought out, because it is the way that most people are on anyway.  It is the default path.  However,the way that pleases God is not natural to us.  We need the leading of the Holy Spirit and the revelation of Scripture in order to follow the hard path that leads to life.  What way are you traveling on?    

MEMORY VERSE: Matthew 5:23-24

So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.

DAILY READING: Matthew 24

FOR DEEPER STUDY OF MATTHEW:

A lot of people are interested in the last days.  Some way more than they should be.  It is easy to get focused on the end times, because it is interesting and it would be nice to know the future.  This passage of Scripture tells us the future, kind of.  Although it doesn't give a whole bunch of details, it gives us the important information.  Unfortunately, the details are what some people get too focused on.  In the next couple of blogs we are going to look at a few things that we do know about the future.  Jesus discusses this topic with the disciples, because I guess they were interested in knowing the future also.  

Jesus' teachings are easier to look at if we divide them up into subsections.  1.  24:1-14 the general condition of the age when Jesus will return.  2. 24:15-31 a description of the terrible times and the 2nd coming.  3. 24:32-41 is a description of how his followers should prepare for his 2nd coming.  4.  Then the following parables are ways of explaining how we should prepare for his 2nd coming.

(Mark Kincannon) 

Golden Rule

Matthew 7:12--"So what you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets."

When I look at this verse it is easy for me to go in to the "I've known this verse for a long time" attitude, and kind of start to tune it out.  I try to explain this command of Jesus to Mason and Maddax and I'm sure that I was taught it when I was a young child too.  Despite the fact that I've been taught this truth for a long time I think that it is easy for me to exclude certain aspects of my life from obedience to this command of Jesus.  

One in particular has to do with my speech.  Now, I usually obey it when it comes to speaking words directly to someone.  I don't try to hurt people with my words, and believe it or not I usually try very hard not to hurt people with my words when I'm talking directly to them.   But when it comes to speaking words about someone when they are not around it is much more difficult.  I don't believe that I'm near careful enough when it comes to talking negatively about people to someone else.   

Clearly, I would rather people not talk negatively about me when I'm not around.  So why would I do that which I wouldn't want done to me to some one else?  May God help me to remember this verse in all aspects of my life.  May he help me to know when to remain silent.

MEMORY VERSE: Matthew 5:23-24

So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.

DAILY READING: Matthew 23

FOR DEEPER STUDY OF MATTHEW:

Yesterday we looked at who the Pharisees and the Sadducees were and now in chapter 23 we have Jesus talking about another group that are doing harm to the Israelites by teaching them improperly.  This was the scribes.  The scribes were so called experts in the Law of Moses (also known as the first five books of the Old Testament, the Pentateuch, or the Torah).   They were the interpreters of the first five books of the Old Testament.   The Pharisees dealt with the theological applications of the scribes interpretations.  The Pharisees might have seen themselves more practical in some ways than the scribes.     

Jesus has a series of "woes" to explain how he felt about the scribes and the Pharisees interpretations and applications.  

(Mark Kincannon) 

Be Salty

"Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person." (Colossians 4.6)

When I was leaving teenage-hood and entering into my twenties I had lunch with Ed one day when the conversation turned to my future.  We had spoken on many occasions regarding this topic from the day I told him I wanted to be a preacher through the college application process and into a few internship, yet on this day the conversation was far different.  Instead of speaking about what I should do, Ed looked into my eyes and told me who he saw me becoming.  It was a heartfelt conversation that was so important I still remember the booth in which we sat at Calico County and the words which he said.     

If there has been one recurring practical application from our teaching series Shout or Silent it has been our need to be silent more often.  Far too often we sin by speaking.  We say the wrong thing or say it in the wrong way or with the wrong motive.  Understanding the heart of God should result in us speaking less on many topics.  Yet the series is not simply called Silent, there is the Shout aspect as well.  Once we have stopped saying the wrong things, we then have opportunity to say the right things.  Our sermon this week and this text from Colossians encourages us to speak, but to do so in the right way.

There are few things more powerful than the correct word said at the correct time, spoken with the correct motive.  My guess is that everyone has moments that they can remember where someone important said the right thing.  Whether it be a parent affirming their love, a coach encouraging ability, or a friend speaking directly to our heart, words can be used for a tremendous good.  That good, however, can only come if we stop using our words to do harm. 

The only logical response by someone who has been transformed by the gospel of Jesus Christ is to start using their one tongue to speak a gracious truth.  We simply do not have time to waste our words on anything else.  Why curse the world when we can bless it?  Why gossip when we can encourage?  Why speak words that hurt when we can speak words that heal?  Why speak words of death when we could speak words of life?  Why tell a twenty year-old what he should do when you could tell him what he could be?

Jesus has called us the salt of the earth.  That salt should pour forth in our speech.  

(Kevin Thompson)    

MEMORY VERSE: Matthew 5:23-24

So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.

DAILY READING: Matthew 22:15-46

FOR DEEPER STUDY OF MATTHEW:

In this passage we see two groups of people that are scheming to try to get Jesus in trouble.  The Pharisees and the Sadducees.  The Holman Bible Dictionary is a helpful tool that can give us help in understanding these two groups and why they asked some of the questions of Jesus that they asked.

 "The name “Pharisee” means “the separated ones.” It may mean that they separated themselves from the masses of the people or that they separated themselves to the study and interpretation of the law. It is usually assumed that they were the spiritual descendants of the Hasidim, the loyal fighters for religious freedom in the time of Judas Maccabeus. They appear to be responsible for the transformation of Judaism from a religion of sacrifice to one of law. They were the developers of the oral tradition, the teachers of the two-fold law: written and oral. They saw the way to God as being through obedience to the law. They were the progressives of the day, willing to adopt new ideas and adapt the law to new situations.

The Pharisees were strongly monotheistic. They accepted all the Old Testament as authoritative. They affirmed the reality of angels and demons. They had a firm belief in life beyond the grave and a resurrection of the body. They were missionary, seeking the conversion of Gentiles (Matthew 23:15). They saw God as concerned with the life of a person without denying that the individual was responsible for how he or she lived. They had little interest in politics. The Pharisees opposed Jesus because He refused to accept the teachings of the oral law.

Sadducees The Sadducees were the aristocrats of the time. They were the party of the rich and the high priestly families. They were in chargeof the Temple and its services. They claimed to be descendants of Zadok, high priest in the time of Solomon. However, the true derivation of their name is unknown. In all our literature, they stand in opposition to the Pharisees. They sought to conserve the beliefs and practices of the past. They opposed the oral law, accepting the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Old Testament, as the ultimate authority. The Sadducees were materialistic in their outlook. They did not believe in life after death or any reward or punishment beyond this life. They denied the existence of angels and demons. They did not believe that God was concerned with what people did. Rather people were totally free. They were politically oriented, supporters of ruling powers, whether Seleucids or Romans. They wanted nothing to threaten their position and wealth, so they strongly opposed Jesus.

This info was collected on Studylight.org.

(Mark Kincannon) 

The Point Is?

I think I’m right about this. You won’t find many stories in the New Testament where people apologized to Jesus. I couldn’t find any… But he talked a lot about how important it was to learn how to get along with each other. It makes me wonder if there’s ever been anyone other than Jesus that thought it was such a good idea.

            Jesus told us it was a good idea in Matthew chapter 5. It’s so good that we’re supposed to do everything we can to get along with anyone and everyone in spite of anything and everything, big things and little things, and it isn’t limited only to those occasions when someone sins against us. If there’s anything that makes us look down on someone else, any attitude of superiority toward someone else over matters of opinion, if we don’t like the way they dress, the way they wear their hair or makeup; if we don’t like the music they listen to, or the way they run their company…if anything like that is going on, then we’re charged with the responsibility of taking control of our attitudes and changing the way we’ve been thinking, talking and acting. If you’d like my opinion of a good way to kick-start the process, read on,.

            I think the best first step is always confession. “I’m sorry,” is the kind of thing I have in mind at this point, not; “If I've done anything to upset you I'm sorry.” Remove "if" from the equation. You've offended them. Just brace up and take your medicine with no attempt to shift blame. You did it, so confess it. But confess your sins only to each other…not to everybody in the county. A suggested guideline for those who should be included in your confession is; the circle of confession should not exceed the circle of offense. If you called you neighbor a fat cow, you don't need to tell the entire church. But you certainly do need to apologize to your neighbor.

            A great second step is to correct any damage that your actions have caused. When it’s possible, you should undo what you've done for the sake of the other person. It won't always be possible. But give it a shot before you can’t, and make sure it your best shot.

            The third step is to quit doing whatever you were doing before that led to the mess in the first place. That’s transformation, and that’s where we’re headed. The idea isn’t that we need to spend all of our time apologizing to people. It’s that we stop doing stuff that we’ll need to apologize for.

            I’ll bet a triple espresso at Starbuck’s you can remember this: confess it, correct it, and quit it.

(Ed Saucier)

MEMORY VERSE: Matthew 5:23-24

So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.

DAILY READING: Matthew 22:1-14

FOR DEEPER STUDY OF MATTHEW:

Many people will tell you this is one of the most shocking passages of Scripture they have ever read.  It is hard for people to grasp Jesus teaching here.  Especially when we view the story from our natural humanistic vantage point, rather than from a God centered perspective.  There are several parts of this passage that are difficult, but lets focus on verse 14.  I will let you read what the ESV Study Bible says about this verse.

" Many (Gk. polloi) are called means that many have been invited to the wedding feast. But not all those invited are actually the ones who are supposed to be there, because few are chosen. This has been described as the doctrine of a “general calling”: the gospel is proclaimed to all people everywhere, both those who will believe and those who will not. However, Paul also mentions another kind of calling, an effective calling from God that comes powerfully to individuals and brings a positive response. When the gospel is proclaimed, only some are effectively called—that is, those who are the elect, who respond with true faith (1 Cor. 1:24, 26–28). This is consistent with Jesus' statement that “few are chosen,” for the ones “chosen” (Gk. eklektos, “selected, chosen”) are “the elect,” a term used by Jesus to refer to his true disciples (cf.Matt. 11:27; 24:22, 24, 31; on the theme of election, see note on Rom. 9:11)."

For those that are really interested in discussing this idea further I recommend you signing up for our Foundations classes.  We will have one that will begin this Sunday during first service on both campuses.  If you are interested please let me know mark@communitychurch.com 

(Mark Kincannon) 

Lingering Thoughts on Monday, February 9th...

Vocabulary Words...

Since my arrival in Arkansas people continually tell me that I need to learn to "call hog."  This seems strange from a simple man from Northern Virginia because it is the start of a new vocabulary.  It does not matter if your calling hog or war eagle or Vol power chant...each people in each area have their vocabulary.  To be brought into their culture you must gain a new vocabulary. 

Is this what Jesus is asking of us in our focal verses for today in Matthew 5:21-24? Does our union with Christ mean we must gain a whole new vocabulary?  It sure seems like it from the outset.  We gain a whole new lexicon with words like atonement, immorality, and communion. These words seem foreign unless you are in union with Christ and his people and are important for us.  This question had lingered with me today as I have considered our message from this morning.

However, what Jesus is implying in the Sermon on the Mount is not a new vocabulary but rather a whole new way of speaking.  There difference here is not words but intentions behind them.  We as followers of Jesus are not to come up with a list of replacement words for such insults like, "you fool" when someone cuts us off during our commute.  No new vocabulary will fix the reality that we sought to diminish someones character.

One day when driving my daughter somewhere I was cut off by a thoughtless and insensitive driver.  Out of my mouth came a common word in my daily usage, "knucklehead" towards said driver.  This in my mind is not a bad word in the spoken sense. However, to my 6 year old daughter Rachel it was a bad word because she caught the tone of my voice when I said this word.  In the way that only my child can get away with she said, "daddy is that how we should talk about other people?"  Instantly conviction fell on my heart as I realized that I don't need a new vocabulary to keep from breaking the 6th commandment because I can use the one I have.  The reality that it is not the word it is the tone, the meaning, the hurt hurled behind it that can cause us to devalue another and devalue the clear call on our lives to love with grace and mercy.

What are words you use that is mild enough to not make a movie script, but hurtful enough to tear someone down?  Do you have words like that in your vocabulary?

As new creations in Christ we need not create a new vocabulary (we need not use our old one either) but we do need to temper our words with a desire to heal others and honor God.

(Joel Reynolds)

 

MEMORY VERSE: Matthew 5:23-24

So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.

DAILY READING: Matthew 21:12-46

FOR DEEPER STUDY OF MATTHEW:

Some might recall the difficult question that we asked on January 27th.  The question had to do with why Jesus made the comment that he only came for the lost sheep of Israel.  There is a great illustration here in Matthew 21:33-46 of God's dealings with Israel.  The most stunning part of the passage to me is the idea that the son was sent to the tenants and he was rejected and killed just as the servants.  I can't help but see this as a bit of foreshadowing of the life of Jesus.  In this passage Jesus tells the religious leaders that there will be a new people who will hear the message.  This people will not be just the Israelites.  This will be a people made up of Jews (Israelites) and Gentiles.  This new people will the church.  I think this parable helps with my understanding of the comment that Jesus made in Matthew 15:24.

(Mark Kincannon) 

Reconciliation

Matthew 5:23-24 - So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go.  First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.

It seems fairly clear from these verses that if we offend a brother, a fellow believer, we must take responsibility for seeking reconciliation.  In fact, Jesus puts emphasis on the importance of making things right, because he says that we should even delay offering our gift to God in order to be reconciled to the person that has something against us.  According to these verses the responsibility for reconciliation falls to the guilty, the person who has done the offending.

But a few weeks ago when we looked at Matthew 18:15-21 we concluded that the responsibility for reconciliation falls to the innocent.  According to those verses it is actually the person who has been offended that needs to seek reconciliation.  It looks like these two passages of Scripture are saying the opposite thing.  Do they stand in contradiction to each other?

Actually they don't, because the end goal in both instances is reconciliation.  The fact that these two passages both approach reconciliation but from opposite view points shows God's great desire for unity and harmony amongst his people.  He instructs both the offended and the offender to seek reconciliation that way if one person drops the ball and ignores Jesus' command, then reconciliation will still be sought by the other party.  These two passages work together to show God's heart for his church.  He wants us to live in harmony and unity.

John 13:35 - By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.

Psalm 133 - Behold, how good and pleasing it is when brothers dwell together in unity!

   It is like precious oil on the head, running down the beard,

   on the beard of Aaron, running down on the collar of his robes!

   It is like the dew of Hermon, which falls on the mountains of Zion!

   For there the Lord has commanded the blessing, life forevermore!

We are often content with a being at odds with a person or two as long as we still have friends that we are in good standing with, but God desires that none of his people hold grudges against each other.  As difficult as it may be for us to initiate reconciliation, God wants us to be reconciled to anyone brother or sister that we are estranged from.  How good and pleasing it is when we dwell together in unity.

(Mike Crain)

MEMORY VERSE: Matthew 19:5-6

"Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and v the two shall become one flesh’? 6 So they are no longer two but one flesh.w What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”

DAILY READING: Matthew 21:1-11

FOR DEEPER STUDY OF MATTHEW:

Ever since I was young I've always considered certain words "church words".  These words are words that people say in church, but most people don't really know what they mean.  They know they have to do with church, but who knows what they really mean.  Words like Hosanna.  We sing songs that have that word in it, and the people in this passage in Matthew 21 were saying it when Jesus entered the city.  What does it really mean?  The word is a Hebrew word often directed towards royalty.  It means something similar to "O save us".  What were these people wanting to be saved from?  Was it their sin or was it Roman rule?  Were they wanting a military earthly savior or an eternal savior?  What do you think?

(Mark Kincannon) 

Careful what you say...

“You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.’ But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be liable to the hell of fire. So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift."  Matthew 5:21-24

Words have impact.  Even if the words are received differently than they were intended to be received they still have impact.  Have you ever had someone say something negative to you that you know you took out of context, but it still hurts?  I remember one situation when I was told something that I'm sure I took out of context, yet the words as they were spoken hurt me deeply.  I still remember the feeling that I had as a kid when the hurtful phrase was spoken to me.  The words, "I don't love you like I love them," hurt really bad.  The words were said by someone that I know loves me.  I know they love me greatly.  They have since told me so many times.  The words are still stuck in my mind, though they were said in the heat of a confrontation, though they were taken out of context by me, it didn't matter they still had a huge negative impact on me.   Words are powerful.  And, unfortunately we have to take extra caution as Christians to speak our words carefully to make sure they are received as intended.  Especially in circumstances that involve confrontation.  This is hard for me to do.  

(Mark Kincannon)

MEMORY VERSE: Matthew 19:5-6

"Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and v the two shall become one flesh’? 6 So they are no longer two but one flesh.w What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”

DAILY READING: Matthew 20

FOR DEEPER STUDY OF MATTHEW:

As we were planning our next sermon series we were discussing the use of this portion of the blog.  The sermon series influences the deeper study portion of the blog each day.  Therefore, as we are planning our next sermon series, we are planning this section as well.  I wanted to get your some feed back from those that use this section regularly.  What aspects of the deeper study section are useful and what parts are not?  Is this a section that you would be disappointed if it was not provided?  Please respond to mark@communitychurch.com

(Mark Kincannon) 

“You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.’ But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be liable to the hell of fire. So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift."  Matthew 5:21-24

Words have impact.  Even if the words are received differently than they were intended to be received they still have impact.  Have you ever had someone say something negative to you that you know you took out of context, but it still hurts?  I remember one situation when I was told something that I'm sure I took out of context, yet the words as they were spoken hurt me deeply.  I still remember the feeling that I had as a kid when the hurtful phrase was spoken to me.  The words, "I don't love you like I love them," hurt really bad.  The words were said by someone that I know loves me.  I know they love me greatly.  They have since told me so many times.  The words are still stuck in my mind, though they were said in the heat of a confrontation, though they were taken out of context by me, it didn't matter they still had a huge negative impact on me.   Words are powerful.  And, unfortunately we have to take extra caution as Christians to speak our words carefully to make sure they are received as intended.  Especially in circumstances that involve confrontation.  This is hard for me to do.  

(Mark Kincannon)

MEMORY VERSE: Matthew 19:5-6

"Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and v the two shall become one flesh’? 6 So they are no longer two but one flesh.w What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”

DAILY READING: Matthew 20

FOR DEEPER STUDY OF MATTHEW:

As we were planning our next sermon series we were discussing the use of this portion of the blog.  The sermon series influences the deeper study portion of the blog each day.  Therefore, as we are planning our next sermon series, we are planning this section as well.  I wanted to get your some feed back from those that use this section regularly.  What aspects of the deeper study section are useful and what parts are not?  Is this a section that you would be disappointed if it was not provided?  Please respond to mark@communitychurch.com

(Mark Kincannon) 

“You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.’ But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be liable to the hell of fire. So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift."  Matthew 5:21-24

Words have impact.  Even if the words are received differently than they were intended to be received they still have impact.  Have you ever had someone say something negative to you that you know you took out of context, but it still hurts?  I remember one situation when I was told something that I'm sure I took out of context, yet the words as they were spoken hurt me deeply.  I still remember the feeling that I had as a kid when the hurtful phrase was spoken to me.  The words, "I don't love you like I love them," hurt really bad.  The words were said by someone that I know loves me.  I know they love me greatly.  They have since told me so many times.  The words are still stuck in my mind, though they were said in the heat of a confrontation, though they were taken out of context by me, it didn't matter they still had a huge negative impact on me.   Words are powerful.  And, unfortunately we have to take extra caution as Christians to speak our words carefully to make sure they are received as intended.  Especially in circumstances that involve confrontation.  This is hard for me to do.  

(Mark Kincannon)

MEMORY VERSE: Matthew 19:5-6

"Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and v the two shall become one flesh’? 6 So they are no longer two but one flesh.w What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”

DAILY READING: Matthew 20

FOR DEEPER STUDY OF MATTHEW:

As we were planning our next sermon series we were discussing the use of this portion of the blog.  The sermon series influences the deeper study portion of the blog each day.  Therefore, as we are planning our next sermon series, we are planning this section as well.  I wanted to get your some feed back from those that use this section regularly.  What aspects of the deeper study section are useful and what parts are not?  Is this a section that you would be disappointed if it was not provided?  Please respond to mark@communitychurch.com

(Mark Kincannon) 

Words and Anger

Words and Anger

"Whoever says, 'You fool!' will be liable to the hell of fire." (Matthew 5.22)

If there are any words we are quick to justify, it is the words spoken in anger.  At least our words spoken in anger, the words of others when spoken in anger we hold against people for their entire lives.  However, we are quick to justify our angry words as being born from a fit of anger and not a true revelation of who we are. 

It's a shame the Bible does not hold the same perspective.  Jesus once again makes it clear that our words reveal our hearts when he promises judgment, stern judgment, for words that we often excuse.  

I doubt there is a more tempting time to sin then when we experience anger with another.  Anger often has the ability to skew reality and allows us to devalue another person to such an extent that we are able to  speak to them in a manner in which we normally would not speak to an animal.  Anger can be such a powerful emotional force that we feel and act in a way completely contrary to our normal nature.  We assume this other person is not the real us, but Jesus has a different take.  

The truth is that our words reveal our hearts, even words spoken in anger.  So Jesus warns his listeners to beware of their angry words for they carry within extreme consequences.  

The next time you get angry and are unable to control your tongue, realize that is the real you and then fall on you face before a Holy God begging for his forgiveness.  For few things reveal our need for God's grace as much as the words we say when we are angry.

(Kevin Thompson)   

MEMORY VERSE: Matthew 19:5-6

"Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and v the two shall become one flesh’? 6 So they are no longer two but one flesh.w What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”

DAILY READING: Matthew 19:12-30

FOR DEEPER STUDY OF MATTHEW:

After Jesus says how difficult it is for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven Peter ask a question about what kind of blessing the 12 disciples will receive since they did what the rich man couldn't, they gave up everything.  Jesus says that after Jesus' second coming they will sit with Him on twelve thrones and judge the 12 tribes of Israel.  What are the 12 tribes of Israel that they will judge?  To get this answer we must go back to the book of Genesis and remember where Israel originated.  

Remember, God made a most important promise to a childless old man named Abraham.  God said that Abraham would have many descendants. God said that all the families of the world would be blessed through his descendants.  

This is a very interesting story that you can learn more about by reading the book of Genesis.  You can also sign up for the Survey of the Old Testament Foundations Class that will begin in two weeks, both in Fort Smith and Van Buren.  This topic will be discussed.  Email me if you are interested.  mark@communitychurch.com . 

Long story short, Abraham had a son named Isaac.  Isaac had a son named Jacob.  Jacob eventually received a new name.  It was Israel.  Israel (Jacob) had twelve sons which had descendants.  The descendants of Jacob's twelve sons divided up the land in Palestine and these were the twelve tribes of Israel (See Genesis 49).  These twelve tribe's land would basically make up the land of Israel, which was another part of the promise that God made to Abraham (God promised his descendants land they would call their own).  One of the Sons of Jacob, named Judah would have a descendent named David.  David had a descendent named Jesus.  All of the nations of the world are blessed through this Jesus.  This is how God's promise to Abraham in the book of Genesis is fulfilled. 

(Mark Kincannon) 

Who's Calling the Shots?

            It’s probably not a good idea to put me in charge of making movies, unless you want all of them to be westerns void of computer generated graphics, cussing, and gratuitous sex scenes; and it’s probably not a good idea to let actors talk without a script, at least when the conversation is about anything that’s important. I was watching a televised interview with a well-known actor when he made the announcement to the world that he was going to get married. Everyone in the audience applauded…maybe they thought they’d get an invitation. The host seemed genuinely surprised, and then explained by saying he’d never thought of his guest as the till death do us part kind of guy. The audience was once again entertained by the wit of the host, and proved as much with their laughter. Not to be outdone the celebrity said, Well I’m not—with me it’s more like till boredom do we part, at which point the audience voted again with their applause that he too, was a comic genius. And I suppose it would be funny, if it weren’t so tragically true. That bothers me.

            Have you ever heard anyone say marriages are made in heaven? I’ve probably performed a couple hundred weddings, although when you include the rehearsals and wedding coordinators, it feels like thousands. But occasionally a couple makes me think that theirs is a marriage made in heaven—very occasionally… More often I just wonder how in the world these two people ever got together in the first place and what in the name of good sense ever made them think they ought to get married. But marry they do...but way too many of them don't stay that way. And that bothers me.

            If marriages are made in heaven it makes you wonder about who’s in charge of quality control. That’s not an indictment on the way things get done in heaven by the way… It’s an observation that while marriages might be made in heaven they’re experienced here on earth! And it’s not always such a heavenly experience. And that bothers me.

            When Jesus said, In the beginning God made them male and female (Matthew 19:4), I think he was trying to clue us in to the fact that the idea of marriage goes all the way back to the beginning when God created Adam and Eve. The reason I think it’s so important for us to know that is that it’s so easy to let culture define life for us and so hard to let God do it. And part of life that culture seems to get to define is marriage. And that bothers me.

            It troubles me that marriage, the most basic pier of our existence as human beings, is pretty much a 50-50 proposal these days and has been for the last several years. I can’t help thinking it’s because we’ve looked at marriage more from the point of view of the movies than from the perspective of our faith. If we would learn and follow the teachings of Scripture before marriage, and maintain those teachings throughout our marriages, I wonder what kind of difference might reward us. For me it’s worth thinking about. I hope you’ll give it some thought too.

(Ed Saucier)

MEMORY VERSE: Matthew 19:5-6

"Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and v the two shall become one flesh’? 6 So they are no longer two but one flesh.w What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”

DAILY READING: Matthew 19:1-12

FOR DEEPER STUDY OF MATTHEW:

If you didn't get a chance this past Sunday to hear the sermon from this passage you can listen to it hear "Defining Moment"

Read the accounts of this passage in Mark 10 and Luke 16:18.  What do you notice that is similar and what do you notice is different about the three accounts?  I'll give you a hint that there is one main difference.  What is it?  Why do you think this difference is added to Matthew's account?

(Mark Kincannon) 

MEMORY VERSE: Matthew 19:5-6

"Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and v the two shall become one flesh’? 6 So they are no longer two but one flesh.w What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”

DAILY READING: Matthew 19:1-12

FOR DEEPER STUDY OF MATTHEW:

If you didn't get a chance this past Sunday to hear the sermon from this passage you can listen to it hear "Defining Moment"

Read the accounts of this passage in Mark 10 and Luke 16:18.  What do you notice that is similar and what do you notice is different about the three accounts?  I'll give you a hint that there is one main difference.  What is it?  Why do you think this difference is added to Matthew's account?

(Mark Kincannon) 

Lingering Thoughts on Monday February 2nd...

 

A letter to my son, Eli

Sunday was my third born child Eli's birthday.  As a relatively new parent of six years I am still figuring out how to lead, discipline, serve, and love my children.  Parenting is the second hardest thing I have ever done (marriage is the first).  This painful truth perpetually keeps me humble.  This painful truth is also helping me learn more and more about being a parent every day.  Today I am learning that my children grow up to fast and there seems to be nothing I can do to stop it.  To cope with this bittersweet reality I have begun writing a letter to each of my children on their birthday (this is my second.  My first, written to my 6 year old daughter can be read HERE). 

Writing these letters to them has been a spiritual exercise that also helps me deal with the pain of watching my babies grow up.  I share it with you today not to show off as a father because truth be know I am a below average father most days.  I allow you to read it because the father I want to be is contingent on the grace of Christ manifest in my salvation and in my marriage to my wife.  As we discussed the great challenge of marriage today in our Shout or Silent Series I felt it was fitting to provide this letter to you...I hope you will agree.

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To My Precious Son, Eli David...

Today I celebrate your first birthday by writing you my first letter to you.  It is a joy to pause and reflect on God's grace in providing us a third child.  It is a joy to pause and reflect on the sweet gift that you are to your mother and I.  It is a joy to pause and reflect on what an honor it is to be your father.  You can not know this yet but you have completed our family in such a rich and special way.  I cannot fathom our empty your home would sound without your laugh in it. 

I want you to know how much I love each and every thing about you.  From your inquisitive brown eyes that are always search to know more about your family and your world.  To your sweet presence that just wants to be where the fun and the action are.  Eli since your arrival you have made our family better.  Your sister Rachel, who adores you, has become more of the leader and big sister she needs to be.  Luke, your brother and hero, is always seeking to make you laugh and enjoy life.  Your mother, who calls you her rainbow, has an even deeper capacity to love now.  Since your arrival I, more than ever, am searching for ways to serve my children and wife.  I cannot thank God enough for creating a son who is such a perfect fit for our family.

This does not mean you are perfect however! In the years ahead I will begin to share more and more with you about the unrighteousness in your life and how you have the same need of everyone in the world, the need for a perfect savior in Jesus Christ.  I can think of no higher purpose for me as your father than to consistently share from the Bible about our great and glorious gospel of Jesus Christ.  Until that day where I can faithfully proclaim it to you and you have a mind ready for comprehension know that there is not one day where I do not pray that your heart will be ready to receive the teaching of the gospel.

Honestly, it hurts a little to think about you growing up because you have been the most precious baby boy.  Yet, the adventure of boyhood is just before you so I look forward to the adventure of being your dad.  This adventure will be marked with both great and painful events.  The path will consist of trail, glory, temptation, mercy, and sin...all of which are what makes life, life.  I cannot promise you a pain free existence (and knowing you I don't think you would even want that).  I can however promise you a few things.

First, I promise to love Jesus Christ with all that I have.  The love I have for my savior will be more than I have for you.  However, because of the grace of Jesus my great passion for Him will allow me to love you more and more each day.  I know this does not make sense to you but I promise to show it, teach it, and live it until it does.  Son I must love Christ above all because He loved His father above all and it is through that, that we can experience salvation.

Second, I promise to love your mother, my bride, more than any other on this earth.  Son I want you to see me in your life first as the husband to your mom.  She is the the one person in our home that I share all of who I am with.  As you grow older I promise to love your mother with such passion, dedication, and adoration that you will never ever doubt my deep respect and honor for her.

Third, I promise to love you in such a way that you will allow you to search out the great mysteries of the gospel of Jesus.  We will talk, pray, sing, and serve Jesus Christ. 

Fourth, I promise to show you a love for the bride of Christ. I will expect you to go to church and honor your family's commitment to church above all other educational, athletic, or social endeavors.  You will also, until your 21, provide a tenth of what you make each week to your church.  Finally as you grow into a young man you will serve in one ministry of our church where you can give of your time, talents, and energy. I do this not to overwhelm you but to nurture you with a love not only for God, but for God's people.

Finally, I promise to pray for, talk about, and prepare you to love a bride of your own.  Eli please know that I am praying right now for your future wife.  I cannot explain it but I love her already!  I love her because she will love you.  Moreover, I can already see in a capacity in you to love her in great ways...what girl will be able to resist your brown hair and dimples?  Until the day comes where that love can be felt in a physical way I will walk with you as you deal with issues of purity, dating, courtship, and marriage.  There will never be a question so big about girls that you will not be able to ask it. 

These things will not make life easy at all.  Nevertheless know my son that these things will make life more understandable.  As you grow, learn, seek, and trust these things I promise to you will be foundation points for you to live a life of faith.  Right now as you wear your footie, monkey pajamas they seem too big and outrageous.  That is a good thing because the most important thing right now is for you to rest and grow.  However, know that right down the hall is a dad who is praying that he will, in the power of Christ alone, fulfill these promises in your life.

I love you and love being your dad!

February 1st, 2009.

(Joel Reynolds)

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MEMORY VERSE: Matthew 19:5-6

"Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and v the two shall become one flesh’? 6 So they are no longer two but one flesh.w What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”

DAILY READING: Matthew 18:7-35

FOR DEEPER STUDY OF MATTHEW:

1. Go back and review the FOR DEEPER STUDY on Jan. 23 and use the rules for interpreting a parable to interpret Jesus parable about forgiveness found in Matthew 18.  What is the main principle that Jesus is teaching in this passage? 
2. A couple of interesting notes about the amount of money that is owed by the two different people the first guy owed the equivalent to around 6 billion dollars while the person he wouldn't forgive owed him around 12 thousand dollars.  These details are just to help us see the big picture don't get bogged down in the details.  These drastically different amounts of money do help make the big picture point of Jesus.
3. How does this principle apply to your life? 

(Mark Kincannon)