Greetings in the lovely name of Jesus.
Today we begin a series of studies originating from Psalm 23, the most famous passage in the Old Testament.
As you study along with me on this blessed Psalm , keep before you at every verse the basic premise that the 23rd Psalm, rightly understood, must be looked at through the eyes of a shepherd. Keep in mind it was written by a shepherd.
As a sidenote, I would recommend anyone taking the time to read Phillip Keller's books , A Shepherd looks at Psalm 23 accompanied by A Shepherd Looks at The Good Shepherd and His sheep. (Taken from John's Gospel, Chapter 10.)
I) Background
Sheep and shepherds are favorite metaphors in Scripture.
Most Christians are familiar with "The Parable of the Lost Sheep" in Luke 15. In Isaiah we read, "All we like sheep have gone astray" (Isaiah 53:6). Psalm 100 reminds us "We are his people and the sheep of his pasture." (Psalm 100:3) 6 times in the New Testament Jesus makes the statement "Sheep which have no shepherd". Ezekiel 34 looks to the future when the true shepherd of Israel will fully care for his own.
Some of the greatest men of the Old Testament tended sheep at one time. Abel is the first shepherd of record; Jacob, Moses, Amos were all shepherds. And then there is David, often referred to by theologians as the shepherd-king.
It is an arresting fact that shepherds played such an unsual and important role at the Birth of the Lord Jesus:
It is to shepherds that the announcement of the birth of the Christ child (Luke 2:8-11) first comes.
It was these shepherds who came first to see the Christ Child (Luke 2:16) Dr. Luke records "They came with haste and found Mary and Joseph and the babe lying in a manger."
These shepherds became the first evangelists preaching the Gospel of the Christ Child. Dr. Luke emphatically records "And when they had seen it, They made known abroad the sayings which were told them concerning this Child." (Luke 2:17)
This whole episode is an irony of irony's indeed. Here's why.
Shepherds were considered the outcasts of their society. They were at the bottom of the bottom of the social totem pole. Jewish shepherds were deemed to be ceremonially unclean. They were ostracized from traditional Jewish life; barred from temple worship and other privileges of Judasim.
The Egyptians really told us how they felt about shepherds. In Genesis 46:34 we read that the Egyptians considered them to be an abomination to society.
Outside of their own circle, shepherds were not endearing to the masses; could never expect to have any privileges in life and most often lived in virtual solitude from mainsteam society.
So what is the point? Several points really. (As a sidenote, have you ever known of a preacher to have only one point?) Not very often. I have several.
Jesus would one day take up the metaphor of shepherding during His ministry. "I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth His life for the sheep." John 10:11
Peter calls Him "The Chief Shepherd" I Peter 5:4
The writer of Hebrews calls Jesus "That great shepherd of the Sheep." Hebrews 13:20.
I find it quite ironic that Jesus saw Himself as our Shepherd because He brings outcasts into His family. He is the champion of the ostracized. We who are indeed unclean, He makes clean.
What is equally amazing is that the Lord Jesus takes up the role of Shepherd at His own personal expense. He was not unclean, He was sinless. He is King of Kings, God of gods and Lord of Lords and yet He humbles Himself to the role of being our Shepherd. He treasures this because He treasures us.
The second point is this. Return to the shepherds for a moment. The announcement, their coming to Bethlehem and their subsequent sharing the good news of Christ's birth set a precedent and principle. The Heavenly Father could have dispatched the angelic host to the throne of Caesar Augustus, Cyrenius or King Herod. The news could have been broken first to the High Priest of Israel, the Sanhedrin or others in the religious hierarchy, or to the arisocrats of that society.
But the amazing, earth shattering, once in a lifetime event was heralded to those society would call low lifes.
This might seem paradoxical to us , but it was God's way of stating that His Son would be Savior and Lord to all and for All. Jesus was born in the most humble of circumstances and the revelation of His coming was given to those who shared this commonality. Had He been born as a normal infant king; common folks like myself would question is He really Lord of all, or just Lord of the privileged. He is Lord of All. A Clear message to that fact is established at His birth.
A third thought emerges with the shepherds as well. Since they were deemed unclean by the Law of Moses it reinforces the simple fact: The Law of Moses was never meant to save anyone ; it was meant to do the exact opposite. It was intended to drive mankind to their need of the One who would indeed be their Messiah, the One who would and could forgive their sins based upon His own merit. The law was intended to show that we are all unclean and in need of the true Sacrifice for our sin. As Paul wrote to the Galatians "Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith." (Galatians 3:24
This thought comes into bold relief when Jesus began His earthly ministry. He confronts a whole generation of people who held to the belief that keeping the Law of Moses outwardly rendered them fit for heaven. Sadly many today hide behind many forms of legalism, or fabrications of religion meant to touch any part of their being except their heart.
This is just my opinion and take it for what it's worth, but I believe that the flocks these shepherds were tending were destined for sacrifice at the time of the Passover. These sheep were in the sheep fold at the spring of the year awaiting the Passover. How provocative is it to think that the shepherds left their sheep to worship the One who years later would be declared as the "Lamb of God, that taketh away the sin of the world." John 1:29 They came to worship the one whose ultimate sacrifice would indeed pay their sin debt. And yours, and Mine.
And a final thought. A sheep or a flock of sheep without a shepherd would be a disaster just waiting to happen. I see first hand every day individuals whose lives fit this description because of one reason: They have no shepherd. Everyone who lives, who ever lived or will ever live on this planet needs the Good Shepherd. No exceptions.
How appropriate that shepherds were so intimately involved at the birth of the Good Shepherd.
Now, on to the Psalm itself.
II) The Structure of the Psalm.
David begins "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want." He ends the psalm with this statement "surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."
I want you to notice what is said between v2 to v5. There are seven (7) activities of care that David sees the Good Shepherd conveying to His sheep. In order they are:
#1. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures
#2. He leadeth me beside the still waters
#3. He restoreth my soul
#4. He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness
#5. Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me
#6. Thou preparest a table before me
#7. Thou anointest my head with oil
Bullinger considers the number seven (7) as the great number of spiritual perfection. I would add that the seven-fold care of the Shepherd for His Sheep is the perfect care. As you take each one individually, and that's the way it was intended, you will begin to focus clearly on the Shepherd's real care for His own.
It is my intent to share each of these seven (7) activities of care in greater detail. But to a final thought as we return to Verse 1.
III) The Personal Shepherd.
Our culture has popularized all kinds of personal relationships. It's common for a person to have a personal physician. Those into physical fitness have personal trainers. Some in Hollywood even have personal cosmetic surgeons. In the sports world fans have personal sports heros. On and on we could go.
Yet, you don't often hear someone say: I have a personal shepherd; but David said it. "The Lord is my shepherd. I stand with David on this and say "Jesus is my personal shepherd." I truly hope and pray you can emphatically say the same.
The Psalm opens with these words "Jehovah is my Shepherd." As Christians, we believe Jesus is my Shepherd, for Jesus is Jehovah incarnate.
The idea of incarnate could be understood by the phrase "putting a name with a face" for that is what Jesus did for us. He shows us the Father. The thought of incarnation brings to bear all the character and attributes of God that He willingly makes known to man.
Hebrew linguists tell us that when we speak of God as Jehovah, the Hebrew uses present tense language. Jehovah is outside time/space/matter that confines us. His existance is eternal. There is no need to argue that point. You either believe it or you don't.
He is eternal---------present tense. Past/present/future rolled into one.
David sees Him as the ever present shepherd. David lays out in the psalm His present tense care of His own. We will look at His care found in the remainder of the verses, but for now the point to establish is this: The Lord is My Shepherd.
There's another significant word in the opening verse. It is the simple word "MY". David sees himself in a role reversal. He had been a shepherd. He knew what it was to tend a flock. He sees himself here as a sheep. The role is reversed. Jesus is His shepherd. He is my shepherd.
Catch the emphasis here. Let me illustrate. If my neighbor's house burns to the ground, that's sad, that's reason to jump in and help them. But if my house burns down, that puts it in a totally different perspective, doesn't it?
If my wife has a toothache, maybe to the point of abscess; that's pretty close to home. You want to get her to the dentist for relief. But if the pain is mine, that totally changes the equation.
It is fine to say Jesus is the good shepherd (He is), others say he is our shepherd (He is); I have even heard someone say Jesus is your shepherd, but it is crucial that you can personally say He is MY shepherd. Is He?
Till next time!
Glenn Bentley
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Saturday, June 13, 2009
What is Truth? Part II
What is Truth? Part II
I) Introduction:
Truth by definition is reality stated with nothing hidden.
We hold to the premise that all truth originates with God. Truth can be possessed as well .You do not have to be rich or privileged; you do not have to be born into a aristocratic family nor educated at Harvard. You simply must accept Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord.
By accepting Jesus by Faith you possess all the truth necessary to live a life that produces meaning and fulfillment.
That leads us to our next observation: Truth is to be Expressed.
II) The Expression of Truth.
Jesus said to Pilate in Verse 37 "Everyone that is of the Truth heareth my voice."
Notice the word "heareth". It is "akouo" in the Greek text. Here the tense of the verb is in present indicative. That simply means that the action.......in this case hearing...........is going on at the present time. To put it another way those who Possess the Truth of Christ are continually hearing His voice.
And the word heareth has its own twist here. Jesus' use of the word implies not only hearing but heeding simultaneously. As we hear His voice, we heed His voice.
The late E.V. Hill told of his early childhood in depression stricken Texas. He said that Momma would be on one end of the cotton field and him on the other. When Momma cried "Edward" he said that was my call to get to where she was immediately. He heard and he heeded.
This is the way the "Truth of Jesus" operates in our lives. It is not just that we hear His voice, we do more than that. We heed that call and command. I believe we express this hearing in three ways in our daily Christian lives.
A) We will Love the Truth.
A person will not express the truth of God in their lives until they first come to love the Truth. It must become personal.
We can take the Apostle Paul as a classic example. Before his Damascus Road conversion to Christ he was the greatest enemy of Jesus Christ and the infant church. All through his writings he gives insights into his hatred toward the Lord and His chosen ones.
Dr. Luke's record in Acts 9:13 states Ananias' skepticism toward Saul of Tarsus "I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem." Even those of the Jewish synagogues in Damascus are startled when Saul preaches Christ in verses 20-21. "But all that heard him were amazed and said; "Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came here for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests?"
What happened?
Saul of Tarsus encountered the one who is "the way the truth and the life."..... and he made a complete 180 degree turn. He went from a man who despised and persecuted the Truth to one who with all his being "loved the truth."
While writing of the coming anti-christ in his second letter to the Thessalonians he says of those who will embrace the Satanic one "they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved." II Thess 2:10. Lost people do not love the Truth.
While Paul's conversion is unique in church history, your conversion to Christ, will produce the same result: "a love for the truth."
If you are indeed a Christian you will "love the truth." That is an acid test of authentic faith in Christ. When a baby is born, there is no debate about the infant's sexuality. The body parts give us the truth. And I believe it is the same way with a genuine believer. Your love for the truth will give you away.
I frequently talk with people who profess Christ and that's all. They cannot prove their possession of Jesus however, because they show no love for the Truth.
B) We will Learn the Truth.
Jesus said "everyone that is of the truth heareth my voice." Not only will there be an evidential love of the Truth, there will be a yearning to learn the truth.
Are you a disciple of Christ? We define discipleship as a follower and a learner. If a person is a true disciple of Jesus, they will have a desire to learn of Him. We do that by studying His Word. The more we study we more we learn.
The Psalms are filled with this instruction.
Psalms 25:4-5 "Show me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth (oh, there's our word) and teach me."
Psalm 86:11 "Teach me thy way, O Lord; I will walk in thy truth (there's that word again), unite my heart to fear thy name."
On and on we could go!!!!!!!!!!!! Suffice it to say, if you are authentic you will learn more of truth. Make it a life long quest! You will never be disappointed; you will never conclude you were wasting your time.
Learn the truth. We have such resources and more options than did our forefathers. We have no excuse.
C) We will Live the Truth.
"Everyone that is of the truth heareth my voice." As I read that statement again, I am struck by the fact that hearing the Lord's voice equates with Living His Truth in our daily lives.
That should be evident in those who really love the truth and are learning the truth. They will and do live the truth. Just as children reflect the behavioral patterns of their parents, Christians in the pursuit of truth will reflect their Heavenly Father.
I refer you again to the 86th Psalm quoted above: "Teach me thy way, O Lord. I will walk in thy truth, unite my heart to fear thy name."
Scripture is replete with this simply principle. It is stated in a myriad of metaphorical premises but always comes back to this principle. If you belong to the Lord, you will live out His truth.
Conclusion:
I am keenly aware that I cannot get my arms completely around the subject of truth. No one can, but we are instructed to keep trying.
Let me offer you a challenge. If you read this, take the Lord up on his promise. His phone number is Jeremiah 333. Try it. "Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not." I believe He is speaking of truth!!!!!
Amen!!!!!!!!
I) Introduction:
Truth by definition is reality stated with nothing hidden.
We hold to the premise that all truth originates with God. Truth can be possessed as well .You do not have to be rich or privileged; you do not have to be born into a aristocratic family nor educated at Harvard. You simply must accept Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord.
By accepting Jesus by Faith you possess all the truth necessary to live a life that produces meaning and fulfillment.
That leads us to our next observation: Truth is to be Expressed.
II) The Expression of Truth.
Jesus said to Pilate in Verse 37 "Everyone that is of the Truth heareth my voice."
Notice the word "heareth". It is "akouo" in the Greek text. Here the tense of the verb is in present indicative. That simply means that the action.......in this case hearing...........is going on at the present time. To put it another way those who Possess the Truth of Christ are continually hearing His voice.
And the word heareth has its own twist here. Jesus' use of the word implies not only hearing but heeding simultaneously. As we hear His voice, we heed His voice.
The late E.V. Hill told of his early childhood in depression stricken Texas. He said that Momma would be on one end of the cotton field and him on the other. When Momma cried "Edward" he said that was my call to get to where she was immediately. He heard and he heeded.
This is the way the "Truth of Jesus" operates in our lives. It is not just that we hear His voice, we do more than that. We heed that call and command. I believe we express this hearing in three ways in our daily Christian lives.
A) We will Love the Truth.
A person will not express the truth of God in their lives until they first come to love the Truth. It must become personal.
We can take the Apostle Paul as a classic example. Before his Damascus Road conversion to Christ he was the greatest enemy of Jesus Christ and the infant church. All through his writings he gives insights into his hatred toward the Lord and His chosen ones.
Dr. Luke's record in Acts 9:13 states Ananias' skepticism toward Saul of Tarsus "I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem." Even those of the Jewish synagogues in Damascus are startled when Saul preaches Christ in verses 20-21. "But all that heard him were amazed and said; "Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came here for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests?"
What happened?
Saul of Tarsus encountered the one who is "the way the truth and the life."..... and he made a complete 180 degree turn. He went from a man who despised and persecuted the Truth to one who with all his being "loved the truth."
While writing of the coming anti-christ in his second letter to the Thessalonians he says of those who will embrace the Satanic one "they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved." II Thess 2:10. Lost people do not love the Truth.
While Paul's conversion is unique in church history, your conversion to Christ, will produce the same result: "a love for the truth."
If you are indeed a Christian you will "love the truth." That is an acid test of authentic faith in Christ. When a baby is born, there is no debate about the infant's sexuality. The body parts give us the truth. And I believe it is the same way with a genuine believer. Your love for the truth will give you away.
I frequently talk with people who profess Christ and that's all. They cannot prove their possession of Jesus however, because they show no love for the Truth.
B) We will Learn the Truth.
Jesus said "everyone that is of the truth heareth my voice." Not only will there be an evidential love of the Truth, there will be a yearning to learn the truth.
Are you a disciple of Christ? We define discipleship as a follower and a learner. If a person is a true disciple of Jesus, they will have a desire to learn of Him. We do that by studying His Word. The more we study we more we learn.
The Psalms are filled with this instruction.
Psalms 25:4-5 "Show me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth (oh, there's our word) and teach me."
Psalm 86:11 "Teach me thy way, O Lord; I will walk in thy truth (there's that word again), unite my heart to fear thy name."
On and on we could go!!!!!!!!!!!! Suffice it to say, if you are authentic you will learn more of truth. Make it a life long quest! You will never be disappointed; you will never conclude you were wasting your time.
Learn the truth. We have such resources and more options than did our forefathers. We have no excuse.
C) We will Live the Truth.
"Everyone that is of the truth heareth my voice." As I read that statement again, I am struck by the fact that hearing the Lord's voice equates with Living His Truth in our daily lives.
That should be evident in those who really love the truth and are learning the truth. They will and do live the truth. Just as children reflect the behavioral patterns of their parents, Christians in the pursuit of truth will reflect their Heavenly Father.
I refer you again to the 86th Psalm quoted above: "Teach me thy way, O Lord. I will walk in thy truth, unite my heart to fear thy name."
Scripture is replete with this simply principle. It is stated in a myriad of metaphorical premises but always comes back to this principle. If you belong to the Lord, you will live out His truth.
Conclusion:
I am keenly aware that I cannot get my arms completely around the subject of truth. No one can, but we are instructed to keep trying.
Let me offer you a challenge. If you read this, take the Lord up on his promise. His phone number is Jeremiah 333. Try it. "Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not." I believe He is speaking of truth!!!!!
Amen!!!!!!!!
Monday, April 13, 2009
What Is Truth?
I) Introduction:
Under the cloud of darkness, the traitor Judas has lead the Roman soldiers to the Garden of Gethsemane to arrest Jesus. The soldiers then take Him to Caiaphas, the high priest (Matthew 26:57). The Sanhedrin (the religious hierarchy of Israel) had assembled. In spite of being forbidden by the law of Moses, the Jews hold a night trial to pronounce judgement upon Jesus.
Now, as we turn to John's account in Chapter 18, we see the Jews have one remaining hurdle to cross. Since Judea was occupied by Rome, only the Romans could execute someone. The Jewish hatred of the Romans, at least in this instance, is surpassed by their hatred for Jesus. They must get Jesus before Pilate, the Roman governor, and convince him to issue a death warrant. Jewish complicity with the Romans was unheard of, but it fulfills their purpose here.
As we read the account beginning in verse 28 we find Jesus and Pilate face to face. In John's account, Pilate asked Jesus five (5) questions. The questioning begins along the line of the charge they have brought against the Savior. They have accused Him of being an insurrectionist, a rebel against Rome, the leader of a rebellion awaiting the right moment to commence.
Obviously, Pilate sees through the false charges. Jesus is no threat to Rome. But Pilate's fourth question brings us to the heart of our discussion.
"Art thou a king then?" (verse 37). At this point, he turns from the mob's accusation to his own personal inquisitiveness. Are you a king?
Jesus replies, "Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born (note that) and for this cause (reason) came I into the world. May I pause for a moment and say that no other human being could truthfully make this statement. No human being is pre-existent ----No one but Jesus.
Jesus continues "To this end was I born and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Everyone that is of the truth heareth my voice.
And then comes Pilate's fifth (5th) and final question in verse 38 "What is truth? "These questions launches us into this discussion of truth.
II) The Definition of Truth.
The question as Pilate stood before Jesus(that's really the way it was) soon progressed from a trumped up political charge to the subject of truth. Not politics, nor philosophy, but truth.
So, to get to the heart of the passage and any study of truth for that matter, we must come up with a workable definition for the idea of truth. Even Pilate wanted a definition. More about Pilate's question next time.
Let me give you a simple definition of truth. The word is "alethia" in the Greek text. The word appears as a noun, or a verb, sometimes as an adjective and even as an adverb according to Vine's Word Study. I would simply define truth as reality stated with nothing hidden. I think that would describe what Jesus means. Truth is indeed reality stated regardless where it occurs. Reality is truth.
An illustration will help. Suppose you have one apple and a friend gives you another apple, you then have two (2) apples. That is what we would call a mathematical truth. One plus one equal two regardless of language, culture, circumstances. Anywhere and everywhere on this planet this is true. We would call that fact TRUTH.
In fact we would call this Absolute Truth. It is not abstract nor debatable. I have two apples. That is a fact, that is Truth.
We would also call this Objective Truth. You might say the guy has three apples, but if he has two friends with him and all three are hungry, then someone won't get an apple, unless you share. That is not subjective, it is Objective. One and one equal two.
You and I did not come up with the concept of truth. Before you were born one plus one equaled two. That was true before you got here, while you are here and will be true long after you are gone.
Under the cloud of darkness, the traitor Judas has lead the Roman soldiers to the Garden of Gethsemane to arrest Jesus. The soldiers then take Him to Caiaphas, the high priest (Matthew 26:57). The Sanhedrin (the religious hierarchy of Israel) had assembled. In spite of being forbidden by the law of Moses, the Jews hold a night trial to pronounce judgement upon Jesus.
Now, as we turn to John's account in Chapter 18, we see the Jews have one remaining hurdle to cross. Since Judea was occupied by Rome, only the Romans could execute someone. The Jewish hatred of the Romans, at least in this instance, is surpassed by their hatred for Jesus. They must get Jesus before Pilate, the Roman governor, and convince him to issue a death warrant. Jewish complicity with the Romans was unheard of, but it fulfills their purpose here.
As we read the account beginning in verse 28 we find Jesus and Pilate face to face. In John's account, Pilate asked Jesus five (5) questions. The questioning begins along the line of the charge they have brought against the Savior. They have accused Him of being an insurrectionist, a rebel against Rome, the leader of a rebellion awaiting the right moment to commence.
Obviously, Pilate sees through the false charges. Jesus is no threat to Rome. But Pilate's fourth question brings us to the heart of our discussion.
"Art thou a king then?" (verse 37). At this point, he turns from the mob's accusation to his own personal inquisitiveness. Are you a king?
Jesus replies, "Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born (note that) and for this cause (reason) came I into the world. May I pause for a moment and say that no other human being could truthfully make this statement. No human being is pre-existent ----No one but Jesus.
Jesus continues "To this end was I born and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Everyone that is of the truth heareth my voice.
And then comes Pilate's fifth (5th) and final question in verse 38 "What is truth? "These questions launches us into this discussion of truth.
II) The Definition of Truth.
The question as Pilate stood before Jesus(that's really the way it was) soon progressed from a trumped up political charge to the subject of truth. Not politics, nor philosophy, but truth.
So, to get to the heart of the passage and any study of truth for that matter, we must come up with a workable definition for the idea of truth. Even Pilate wanted a definition. More about Pilate's question next time.
Let me give you a simple definition of truth. The word is "alethia" in the Greek text. The word appears as a noun, or a verb, sometimes as an adjective and even as an adverb according to Vine's Word Study. I would simply define truth as reality stated with nothing hidden. I think that would describe what Jesus means. Truth is indeed reality stated regardless where it occurs. Reality is truth.
An illustration will help. Suppose you have one apple and a friend gives you another apple, you then have two (2) apples. That is what we would call a mathematical truth. One plus one equal two regardless of language, culture, circumstances. Anywhere and everywhere on this planet this is true. We would call that fact TRUTH.
In fact we would call this Absolute Truth. It is not abstract nor debatable. I have two apples. That is a fact, that is Truth.
We would also call this Objective Truth. You might say the guy has three apples, but if he has two friends with him and all three are hungry, then someone won't get an apple, unless you share. That is not subjective, it is Objective. One and one equal two.
You and I did not come up with the concept of truth. Before you were born one plus one equaled two. That was true before you got here, while you are here and will be true long after you are gone.
If you hold to Jesus' use of the word truth, He means that Truth is reality revealed, with nothing hidden. Truth is absolute and objective.
III) The Origination of Truth.
Pilate ask, "What is truth?" He was not only asking for a definition from Jesus, his question implies another vital thought. Where does truth originate?
Where does truth originate? It depends on who you ask, right? Regardless of your answer or lack thereof, I hold to a basic premise that truth must originate somewhere. Back to the apples for a moment. Someone had to determine that one apple plus another one gives you two. Who came up with that? Did Johnny Appleseed come up with that? Nope, it wasn't Johnny.
You could ask another question involving apples. If an apple fell from a tree and hit Isaac Newton on the noggin, what caused the gravitational force that caused an object of weight to descend downward? Newton didn't cause it. But the fact of gravity is Truth, and it had to originate somewhere.
What about morality? Man is a complex being. He is unlike all other species in that he has a built conscience. Standard equipment for all human beings. You may not have a GPS Navigation system in your vehicle, but you do have a moral barometer or compass built into the essence of your being. That fact separates man from all others of the created order. Where did the concept of right and wrong originate?
There is an indisputable, universal moral sense of right and wrong. By their actions, many demonstrate that their view of such is woefully skewered and warped. But that does not change the fact that in each of use, there is a sense of right and wrong. Where did that originate?
I contend that all truth has a supernatural beginning. Truth is outside the material realm, the natural realm and the moral realm. It must begin with God. He is the only source of truth and there is no other logical explanation when you really think about it.
All truth that man has discovered (regardless of the realm) is from the hand of God. Period!!!!!
I have often done business with people for years without meeting them face to face. There have been times when I have been privileged to put a name and a voice with a face. It is a unique human experience for the most part. The ancient Name and Voice of Truth has a face as well. His name is Jesus. And as He tells Pilate "I came..........that I should bear witness unto the truth."
He is the truth. He is "the way, the truth and the life." All truth originates with Him.
IV) The Possession of Truth.
Ponce de Leon came to America searching for the mythical "Fountain of Youth." We know he never found it in Florida or anywhere else on the planet. It does not exist.
There are many today that tell us that Truth ----that which is absolute and objective----does not exist. How foolish to make that assertion . Unlike the fountain that de Leon never found, truth does exist. It exists in the one who is its author.
Jesus proclaims to Pilate "Everyone that is of the truth heareth my voice." Our Lord affirms that people can possess Truth. Just as sheep hear and heed the voice of their shepherd, everyone that possesses truth hears and heeds the voice of the Lord Jesus.
Are you "of the truth" ? That is the question that begs to be asked! I think most would agree that Pilate missed his opportunity to possess the truth for himself. History records nothing of him coming to Christ at a later date. For all we know he never was counted among those "of the truth." Are you counted among that group today?
V) Conclusion:
Can you answer the question Pilate asked "What is Truth"? If you are "of the truth" you can. You are of the truth if you know Jesus as your Savior and Lord. If you can't answer that question truthfully, ackowledge that you are a sinner in the sight of God and ask Jesus to forgive you of this state. Surrender your life to Him by faith. You will be "of the truth" because you possess the Truth. Simple, isn't it?
We will come back to our study of truth next month. I hope you can honestly say I possess the Truth. After all, truth is reality revealed; all truth originates with God and His truth can be possessed.
All truth resides in Jesus. Amen!!!!
Sunday, January 4, 2009
The Me or We Generation
January 4, 2009
America's finest fought and won a world war in Europe and the South Pacific simultaneously. Perhaps some of your relatives were involved in this massive undertaking. Tom Brokaw calls them "The Greatest Generation" and he was right.
Fast forward 70 plus years to present day America. Could you give the present day generation a fitting name?
Try the TV ads. They are geared to the various demographics for the sole purpose of selling their wares.
Do you recognize this? "It's my money and I want it now." Or "I want it all and I want it now."
Did you see the guy who is at the drive thru window paying for his order? A vehicle right behind him stomps his gas pedal and proceeds to push the guy past the window so he can take his place.
With tires squealing and smoke bellowing, he gets to the window and his line is "I just had to have my Arby's.
Maybe you heard the sad and shocking news of the man who was trampled to death by Wal-Mart shoppers on Black Friday.
And now there is an insurance advertisement stating that a certain company sponsors the NFL and Sundays. Since when did the Lord sell the sponsorship of Sunday? I must have missed the news.
I think I can give the present generation a name. I call it the "Me Generation." It's fitting because this comes straight from the word of God.
I) "The Me Generation." II Timothy 3:1-4
In this particular section of Scripture the Apostle Paul uses two (2) Greek words that appear no where else in the Greek New Testament The first is found in verse 2 "men shall be lovers of their own selves".
The second comes in verse 4 speaking of the same generation that Paul describes as "lovers of pleasure."
Some speculate that Paul coins these two words himself and applies them to a generation of men that would someday exemplify and typlify all that the apostle describes here.
An interpretative rule of Scripture states that whenever a word is used only one time, it is almost without exception worthy of our utmost attention. It is used to emphasize a point of truth and not to be passed by lightly.
I propose to you that the words are bookends. If you omit all that appears between those two words you arrive at a simply conclusion.
What Paul sees prophetically is one generation, above all past generations, that will be characterized as a race of people that are "lovers of their own selves" and "lovers of pleasure."
The Scripture says it would come for notice verse 1 "This know also, that in the last days, perilous (or dangerous) times shall come. These dangerous times will come because mankind has only one lover: Himself.
In the movie "The Longest Day", the apex of the movie occurs in a German bunker along the Atlantic Wall at Normandy. An officer is aroused by a phone call from headquarters about possible enemy activity during the night. He dresses and proceeds to the bunker just before dawn. He peers out from the bunker. The fog and darkness has decreased his visibility. He sees nothing.
Convinced there is no danger, he spends a few minutes and prepares to return to his quarters.He takes one more look and through the fog and the fleeting darkness he spots a ship. And then another, and then, he sees the whole Allied armada awaiting off shore. The invasion has come.
Before our very eyes, the "Me Generation" has emerged. It started with the idea that man's self worth and esteem are too low. It must be corrected. It must be elevated. The psychological prescription was man must love himself more. And he has!!!!!
Verse 1 pinpoints the time, Verse 2-4 describes the traits of that generation. Is it on the horizon? Is it in the near future? No and No. It is here.
II) The We Generation. I Thessalonians 4:13-18
This particular passage is familiar to most Christians. It describes for us an event that is often called "The Rapture of the Church."
I personally believe the Rapture will take place once the "Me Generation" has taken center stage. It is a logical fit.
When Jesus came the first time, there was a small group of Jews (very small by all accounts) that anticipated His coming. William Barclay referred to these as the "Quiet Ones." We meet two of them in Dr. Luke's account of Joseph and Mary bringing the babe Jesus into the temple on the 8th day after his birth. (See Luke 2). One is Simeon, the other is Anna.
Just as with His first coming, When Jesus returns for the church, there will be a group of believers who are anticipating His coming.
Note the whole of Paul's writing to the Thessalonians in chapter 4 verses 13-18. While it is not our intent to explore the passage in detail it is striking to notice the term "we". While Paul so anticipated His Lord's return, it did not occur in his lifetime.
However, Paul prophetically is writing to people not yet even born. They are the "We" Generation.
Look to verse 15 "That we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord" and again in verse 17 "Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up"
Clearly there is a "We Generation". The generation of believers that will be eye witnesses too and participants in the Rapture of the Church.
As Paul writes to the Corinthians "Behold, I show you a mystery ; We shall not all sleep (there is the mention again of the "We Generation") but we shall all be changed" (includes those who died in Christ and will be resurrected along side the living ones) I Corinthians 15:51
So in the midst of the "Me Generation".....the lovers of self and the lovers of pleasure there will be a "We Generation". A group awaiting the next great event on the prophetic calendar.
And the truly blessed part, when the me generation emerges and it has, the event of the rapture can not be very far behind. Let us be looking up, "for our redemption draweth nigh." Luke 21:28
III) Conclusion:
You and I will find ourselves in one or the other. We belong either to the "Me Generation" or to the "We Generation." There are no other options.
As is always the case, Jesus is the dividing line in the sand, the decision of all decisions.
You do nothing to remain a member of the "Me Generation." You were born into the human race. You must be born again to be a member of the "We Generation". I trust you belong to Him.
Till next time.
Glenn Bentley
America's finest fought and won a world war in Europe and the South Pacific simultaneously. Perhaps some of your relatives were involved in this massive undertaking. Tom Brokaw calls them "The Greatest Generation" and he was right.
Fast forward 70 plus years to present day America. Could you give the present day generation a fitting name?
Try the TV ads. They are geared to the various demographics for the sole purpose of selling their wares.
Do you recognize this? "It's my money and I want it now." Or "I want it all and I want it now."
Did you see the guy who is at the drive thru window paying for his order? A vehicle right behind him stomps his gas pedal and proceeds to push the guy past the window so he can take his place.
With tires squealing and smoke bellowing, he gets to the window and his line is "I just had to have my Arby's.
Maybe you heard the sad and shocking news of the man who was trampled to death by Wal-Mart shoppers on Black Friday.
And now there is an insurance advertisement stating that a certain company sponsors the NFL and Sundays. Since when did the Lord sell the sponsorship of Sunday? I must have missed the news.
I think I can give the present generation a name. I call it the "Me Generation." It's fitting because this comes straight from the word of God.
I) "The Me Generation." II Timothy 3:1-4
In this particular section of Scripture the Apostle Paul uses two (2) Greek words that appear no where else in the Greek New Testament The first is found in verse 2 "men shall be lovers of their own selves".
The second comes in verse 4 speaking of the same generation that Paul describes as "lovers of pleasure."
Some speculate that Paul coins these two words himself and applies them to a generation of men that would someday exemplify and typlify all that the apostle describes here.
An interpretative rule of Scripture states that whenever a word is used only one time, it is almost without exception worthy of our utmost attention. It is used to emphasize a point of truth and not to be passed by lightly.
I propose to you that the words are bookends. If you omit all that appears between those two words you arrive at a simply conclusion.
What Paul sees prophetically is one generation, above all past generations, that will be characterized as a race of people that are "lovers of their own selves" and "lovers of pleasure."
The Scripture says it would come for notice verse 1 "This know also, that in the last days, perilous (or dangerous) times shall come. These dangerous times will come because mankind has only one lover: Himself.
In the movie "The Longest Day", the apex of the movie occurs in a German bunker along the Atlantic Wall at Normandy. An officer is aroused by a phone call from headquarters about possible enemy activity during the night. He dresses and proceeds to the bunker just before dawn. He peers out from the bunker. The fog and darkness has decreased his visibility. He sees nothing.
Convinced there is no danger, he spends a few minutes and prepares to return to his quarters.He takes one more look and through the fog and the fleeting darkness he spots a ship. And then another, and then, he sees the whole Allied armada awaiting off shore. The invasion has come.
Before our very eyes, the "Me Generation" has emerged. It started with the idea that man's self worth and esteem are too low. It must be corrected. It must be elevated. The psychological prescription was man must love himself more. And he has!!!!!
Verse 1 pinpoints the time, Verse 2-4 describes the traits of that generation. Is it on the horizon? Is it in the near future? No and No. It is here.
II) The We Generation. I Thessalonians 4:13-18
This particular passage is familiar to most Christians. It describes for us an event that is often called "The Rapture of the Church."
I personally believe the Rapture will take place once the "Me Generation" has taken center stage. It is a logical fit.
When Jesus came the first time, there was a small group of Jews (very small by all accounts) that anticipated His coming. William Barclay referred to these as the "Quiet Ones." We meet two of them in Dr. Luke's account of Joseph and Mary bringing the babe Jesus into the temple on the 8th day after his birth. (See Luke 2). One is Simeon, the other is Anna.
Just as with His first coming, When Jesus returns for the church, there will be a group of believers who are anticipating His coming.
Note the whole of Paul's writing to the Thessalonians in chapter 4 verses 13-18. While it is not our intent to explore the passage in detail it is striking to notice the term "we". While Paul so anticipated His Lord's return, it did not occur in his lifetime.
However, Paul prophetically is writing to people not yet even born. They are the "We" Generation.
Look to verse 15 "That we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord" and again in verse 17 "Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up"
Clearly there is a "We Generation". The generation of believers that will be eye witnesses too and participants in the Rapture of the Church.
As Paul writes to the Corinthians "Behold, I show you a mystery ; We shall not all sleep (there is the mention again of the "We Generation") but we shall all be changed" (includes those who died in Christ and will be resurrected along side the living ones) I Corinthians 15:51
So in the midst of the "Me Generation".....the lovers of self and the lovers of pleasure there will be a "We Generation". A group awaiting the next great event on the prophetic calendar.
And the truly blessed part, when the me generation emerges and it has, the event of the rapture can not be very far behind. Let us be looking up, "for our redemption draweth nigh." Luke 21:28
III) Conclusion:
You and I will find ourselves in one or the other. We belong either to the "Me Generation" or to the "We Generation." There are no other options.
As is always the case, Jesus is the dividing line in the sand, the decision of all decisions.
You do nothing to remain a member of the "Me Generation." You were born into the human race. You must be born again to be a member of the "We Generation". I trust you belong to Him.
Till next time.
Glenn Bentley
Sunday, November 30, 2008
7 Steps to Studying the Scriptures Part II
Greetings in the Lovely Name of Jesus:
In October we dealt with the Historical/Cultural and Grammatical steps in studying any passage of Scripture. Today, we lay out the four (4) remaining steps we pursue as we study the Word of God.
1. Step #4. The Contextual Perspective.
It is vitally important to understand any particular passage in light of the context in which it is written. The context defines the parameters the author has set.
For instance, take any parable Jesus gave and study it in light of the context. In fact, you can ask the question, what prompts His parable? This is generally a dead give away at what He was really saying and to whom it was said.
Down through the centuries the church has battled those who take a passage of scripture, dismiss the context and formulate a false thesis and platform to lead others astray.
If you have ever wondered how some who pretend to be biblical experts, arrive at their interpretations of Scripture, its really easy to get it. They simply take verses out of context to fit their preconceived ideas.
We would not have so many misguided teachers/followers and movements if people who study the bible would look at the Word of God in Context.
You can't cherry pick scripture and be a serious student of the Word of God at the same time.
Stay in context with your study.
2. Step #5. The Doctrinal Perspective.
I am automatically suspicious of any movement that relegates Christian doctrine to a less than central role in the life of the church. Movements such as the Seeker Friendly group and the Emerging Church growth crowd certainly fall into this category. Sadly many churches claiming bedrock Christianity have succumbed to the lie of Satan that doctrine is not really important.
So what is doctrine? The N.T. word for doctrine is literally teaching. We could call it an embodiment of ideas that someone formulates and presents to others. Inherent in the use of doctrine is the idea that whatever is believed will be taught to others.
Why is doctrine important? Many raise their voice and say Doctrine divides. It is irrelevant, boring and certainly divisive to many. I chose to disagree.
Biblical doctrine is important. In fact it is vitally important. Doctrine does not divide, it defines. Doctrine defines the great truths of Scripture that the church has rested upon down through the church age.
Think about the Doctrine of Salvation! What about the Doctrine of Justification or Sanctification? Are these truths no longer relevant to our church and the culture of the 21st century.
Anyone who tells you doctrine is not central to the Christian life is trying to lead you in an opposite direction or attempting to simply dumb you down so you won't know the different.
When you study the Scripture, look for the Doctrinal aspects of the passage. They may not always be in the forefront but they will certainly be in the background.
One example will do. In Genesis 3 we have the sin and fall of our first parents. The Lord God's response and dealing with Adam and Eve state at least four cardinal doctrines that run from "civer to civer" as an old timey preacher once said. What are they, you ask?
Genesis 3 gives us the first look at the Doctrine of Salvation, The Doctrine of Justification by Faith; The Doctrine of Original Sin; The Doctrine of Grace just for starters.
Because the Bible is a Symphony these doctrinal truths appear over and over again. A student who is cognizant of doctrinal truths will be rewarded in a deeper understanding of the Word of God.
3. Step #6. The Literal Perspective.
God has revealed Himself in His Word. His revelation is not mystical, nebulous nor mysterious.It was meant to be understood. His word is conveyed to rational minds in a simple and straight forward fashion.
In studying the Scripture I have always made it a point to abide by a basic principle: "If the literal sense makes good sense, seek no other sense." That's simple isn't it? If the passage in question makes literal sense, don't go get you a spiritual pick and shovel and start trying to unearth a meaning that is not there.
If you maintain this literal perspective God's word will make much more sense to you. And as a footnote, this literal approach will even help you identify those passages in the Word that are obviously symbolic. Revelation 14 comes to mind.
Remember, take it literal. As Stephen Olford often said, "God says what He means and He means what He says."
Once passage come to mind: Isaiah 55:6-7
"Seek ye the Lord while He may be Found
Call upon Him while He is near
Let the wicked forsake his way
And the unrigtheous man his thoughts
Let him return unto the Lord
And He will have mercy upon him
and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon."
I'm no Philadelphia Lawyer, but I think I get what my Lord is literally saying.
Step #7. The Personal Perspective.
I have saved this for last. The study of Scripture is not an academic exercise. Study and Prayer are the ways we stay in touch with our Master. It is the primary way He communicates with us. This S & P has nothing to do with the financial markets. It has to do with the real Him and the real You.
Now, if I want to hear from Him, it is essential I study His Word. If you will take the time to incorporate the six (6) steps mentioned -----Historical, Cultural, Grammatical,Contextual, Doctrinal, Literal------------He will speak to you. He will speak to your heart personally.
On numerous occasions, I have been approached many times as I arrived at church, "Brother Glenn, I need to speak to you after the worship service is over. I have an issue, a problem, a crisis,,,,,etc...etc....that I need some advise on."
More than once, that person that met me at the door comes back afterwards and says, We don't have to talk, God spoke to my heart through the message or the lesson that was just presented. Strange uh? No, not really. It is often the way the Lord speaks to us if we are really listening.
HE indeed will speak to US personally.
I'm sure there have been times in your life when you realized that an event, an endeavor, or some enterprise had simply wasted your time. No serious student of Scripture will say that.
Until December or His Call, have a blessed and holy Day.
Glenn Bentley
Sharing The Truth Ministries
In October we dealt with the Historical/Cultural and Grammatical steps in studying any passage of Scripture. Today, we lay out the four (4) remaining steps we pursue as we study the Word of God.
1. Step #4. The Contextual Perspective.
It is vitally important to understand any particular passage in light of the context in which it is written. The context defines the parameters the author has set.
For instance, take any parable Jesus gave and study it in light of the context. In fact, you can ask the question, what prompts His parable? This is generally a dead give away at what He was really saying and to whom it was said.
Down through the centuries the church has battled those who take a passage of scripture, dismiss the context and formulate a false thesis and platform to lead others astray.
If you have ever wondered how some who pretend to be biblical experts, arrive at their interpretations of Scripture, its really easy to get it. They simply take verses out of context to fit their preconceived ideas.
We would not have so many misguided teachers/followers and movements if people who study the bible would look at the Word of God in Context.
You can't cherry pick scripture and be a serious student of the Word of God at the same time.
Stay in context with your study.
2. Step #5. The Doctrinal Perspective.
I am automatically suspicious of any movement that relegates Christian doctrine to a less than central role in the life of the church. Movements such as the Seeker Friendly group and the Emerging Church growth crowd certainly fall into this category. Sadly many churches claiming bedrock Christianity have succumbed to the lie of Satan that doctrine is not really important.
So what is doctrine? The N.T. word for doctrine is literally teaching. We could call it an embodiment of ideas that someone formulates and presents to others. Inherent in the use of doctrine is the idea that whatever is believed will be taught to others.
Why is doctrine important? Many raise their voice and say Doctrine divides. It is irrelevant, boring and certainly divisive to many. I chose to disagree.
Biblical doctrine is important. In fact it is vitally important. Doctrine does not divide, it defines. Doctrine defines the great truths of Scripture that the church has rested upon down through the church age.
Think about the Doctrine of Salvation! What about the Doctrine of Justification or Sanctification? Are these truths no longer relevant to our church and the culture of the 21st century.
Anyone who tells you doctrine is not central to the Christian life is trying to lead you in an opposite direction or attempting to simply dumb you down so you won't know the different.
When you study the Scripture, look for the Doctrinal aspects of the passage. They may not always be in the forefront but they will certainly be in the background.
One example will do. In Genesis 3 we have the sin and fall of our first parents. The Lord God's response and dealing with Adam and Eve state at least four cardinal doctrines that run from "civer to civer" as an old timey preacher once said. What are they, you ask?
Genesis 3 gives us the first look at the Doctrine of Salvation, The Doctrine of Justification by Faith; The Doctrine of Original Sin; The Doctrine of Grace just for starters.
Because the Bible is a Symphony these doctrinal truths appear over and over again. A student who is cognizant of doctrinal truths will be rewarded in a deeper understanding of the Word of God.
3. Step #6. The Literal Perspective.
God has revealed Himself in His Word. His revelation is not mystical, nebulous nor mysterious.It was meant to be understood. His word is conveyed to rational minds in a simple and straight forward fashion.
In studying the Scripture I have always made it a point to abide by a basic principle: "If the literal sense makes good sense, seek no other sense." That's simple isn't it? If the passage in question makes literal sense, don't go get you a spiritual pick and shovel and start trying to unearth a meaning that is not there.
If you maintain this literal perspective God's word will make much more sense to you. And as a footnote, this literal approach will even help you identify those passages in the Word that are obviously symbolic. Revelation 14 comes to mind.
Remember, take it literal. As Stephen Olford often said, "God says what He means and He means what He says."
Once passage come to mind: Isaiah 55:6-7
"Seek ye the Lord while He may be Found
Call upon Him while He is near
Let the wicked forsake his way
And the unrigtheous man his thoughts
Let him return unto the Lord
And He will have mercy upon him
and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon."
I'm no Philadelphia Lawyer, but I think I get what my Lord is literally saying.
Step #7. The Personal Perspective.
I have saved this for last. The study of Scripture is not an academic exercise. Study and Prayer are the ways we stay in touch with our Master. It is the primary way He communicates with us. This S & P has nothing to do with the financial markets. It has to do with the real Him and the real You.
Now, if I want to hear from Him, it is essential I study His Word. If you will take the time to incorporate the six (6) steps mentioned -----Historical, Cultural, Grammatical,Contextual, Doctrinal, Literal------------He will speak to you. He will speak to your heart personally.
On numerous occasions, I have been approached many times as I arrived at church, "Brother Glenn, I need to speak to you after the worship service is over. I have an issue, a problem, a crisis,,,,,etc...etc....that I need some advise on."
More than once, that person that met me at the door comes back afterwards and says, We don't have to talk, God spoke to my heart through the message or the lesson that was just presented. Strange uh? No, not really. It is often the way the Lord speaks to us if we are really listening.
HE indeed will speak to US personally.
I'm sure there have been times in your life when you realized that an event, an endeavor, or some enterprise had simply wasted your time. No serious student of Scripture will say that.
Until December or His Call, have a blessed and holy Day.
Glenn Bentley
Sharing The Truth Ministries
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