Renewing of Your Mind

Meeting with God gives us the renewing of your mind, this incredible opportunity we have to change and develop beyond what is greater than ourselves.

 

This is an act of worship too, as our trust and obedience to think right without distraction or personal agendas.

 

We are called and empowered to change our pagan thinking, even our faulty or shallow Christian mindset away from our selfish nature unto His character. Until we do, the deeper things of God's will and His precepts, will be vacant and not even be available to us. This passage is a testament that our ideas and attitudes directly shape our values and lifestyle. To get it right, we are to be shaping our mind to God's Word (Rom. 8:5-9; 12; 13:11-14; 2 Cor. 4:18; 1 John 2:17).

When we are in Christ, we are His Christians called to be deep with friends that are bonded as family. Our relationship with the Lord must be transparent and not secretive (unless you live in a closed Muslim country)! And what flows from our reverence that prompts our obedience and conviction by our gratitude for what our Lord has done and for who He is; they are the compassion for the needy, and the lost.

• Our lives must be motivated by who we are in Christ and nothing else.
• Being freed from sin must show a response and a responsibility, so what is yours (Luke 10:36-37; Eph. 4:23)?

 

Jesus calls us, His people and passionately urges us that God's will is to think rightly of His precepts. That means to make our faith so real it impacts others around us. And, we are give a simple call on how we can do this: To see our life as an extension of God's grace and hands, so we are willing and able to be lined up to Him, so we can be better used by Him. Then as His living sacrifice, we can be living, growing and performing agents of God. We are not alone in this essential manner, remember as a Christian the Holy Spirit transforms us completely, all we are and then all that we are to do, our will, plans and our opportunities (2 Cor. 3:18).

 

Our prime motivator should be our gratitude, the essence of true worship, and how we respond to God.

 

This means we must have gratitude for what Christ did for us. We have been forgiven and saved; why fret and worry? This fuels all of our motives and contentment. If we do not have gratitude, we will not live out our Christian lives well and we may even become like our Jewish ancestors-stiff-necked and an insult to God Our sacrifice is not of animals; it is the offering Christ gave us, how we respond of ourselves with proper reverence and attitude. This also means that we now have a greater revelation, and thus a greater responsibility (Luke 10:20; John 4:19-24; Rom. 3:24-26; 4:23-25; 12:1-2; 2 Cor. 9:15; Heb. 11:40).

 

 

 

 

Meet God and be transformed agents of His Work!

We must do our best to immerse ourselves to meet Him, to know Him, to internalize His precepts and live them out for His glory and our mutual benefit. Therefore, we must listen, learn, and do (James 1:21-27).

How do I meet with God? Simple. How do you make friends?
How do you get to know them?
How do you nurture your rapport and build a relationship with them?

This is one of the applications of Romans 12, which is pretty much the same way we grow in Christ. To build friendships, we spend time with people to listen, learn, experience, and discover; our trust builds and our relationship builds. We do this also with God, spending time to nurture our relationship, in person to His Person by reading the Bible, studying His precepts, worship and praying amongst other spiritual disciplines.

Why? God wants us to know Him, and to do this we need to meet with Him. God wants you transformed and renewed. This means we must be in transformative engagement with Him through His Word to do this building and nurturing! We are to know Him, grow in Him by our adoring engagement with Him by listening so that we will be learning His calls, commands, instructions, history, even His poetry--all from in the Bible, in His Cradle of Instruction. To do this, we learn to trust and grow to obey; this is the essence of being a growing committed Christian and collectively as a vibrant church!

Meeting God is up to Him. Meeting with God is up to us.

There are certain things that must take place to know Him more. First, we believe. We accept. We have faith. Then, we cultivate to make the application of our faith real and effectual.

What a cultivation tool?

The Gospel is. The Gospel shows how we shall live in faith-from doctrine to duty-from what we glean, learning and living. This is the cultivation process of getting to know God. This translates our faith to the practical aspect of the Gospel. As Christians, we have received the greatest gift conceivable. We have been saved, not of any effort or reason on our part except by faith.

What do we do to live fully in Christ?

We meet with Him! We do this not by osmosis, birthright or wishfulness; rather, this faith-this beautiful and complete relationship with our Father-is cultivated by our due diligence in connecting with Our Lord, building relationships and increasing trust-just as we would do with any trusted friend.

 

Meet God and be transformed agents of His Work!

Nehemiah 8; Romans 12:1-3; Hebrews 3:12-13; 4:1-2; 5:11-6:3; James 1:22-25

 

 

The bottom line of why we are to study the Bible is so that we may know God, His Way, and grow in our knowledge and faith in Him so we can then be better used by Him.

We are called to spiritual growth-that is, the formation of the investment of faith Christ gives us that we give back to Him in dividends. This is a deep conviction of our faith, a practiced submission that shows our obedience, and a life of personal and relational maturity. We can't do this when we bring what we want into Scripture and not take out what God wants us to have! We have to listen to God; if not, we will not learn and then we will not grow and then we will not have a life of transformation. Instead, we will experience a storm-tossed sea of life, wayward in every perspective because our eyes and ears are not upon our Lord (James 1:2-8; Heb. 6:13-20).

What is the point of desiring to be a musician if you never intend to learn music and/or practice your instrument? What is the point of doing church if we do not equip the people to learn what we are about and what we are to do from the Bible? What is the point of being a Christian if we never read the directions to know what we should be doing? What point is there to the Christian life without the life-changing transformational life we can have through His Word, Work, and Holy Spirit? There is not much point without it. How do we achieve the transformation? The answer is simple: get into the Word! We have the tools to help you do this--Bible reading charts, plans, and insights for those just starting out to prepare sermons. You can, indeed, do it and remove Bible illiteracy from your life and church!

God desires us to be His, to listen to Him, and to trust and obey Him; He has designed us to be with Him in personal relationship, to seek Him and place Him first so that we might be more like Our Lord. We can meet with Him, we can trust in Him, we can expectantly be learners and doers of His Word and build an effectual church and life (2

Get into the Bible for Transformation

We meet with God to know Him; we open the Bible and read its words with anticipation and wonder as we commune with the Creator King of the universe who wants us to know Him.

The relationship building doesn't stop with heeding the simple glorious message of the Gospel; we must continue on, delving into God's Word. It is through this intentional learning that we capture His principles, letting us ponder His Truth and begin to apply ourselves to Him, conforming to His Word. Literally in John 6, we are called to 'feed' on Christ; we are to consume His work and principles both for living now and for eternity. This helps us have real meaning and a purposeful life by building our new life (2 Tim. 2:15).

Meeting with Our Lord is so important; it is how we are to grow in Christ! It is how we build our faith and spiritual formation in order to be our best for His Glory.

To do this, we must think beyond ourselves, beyond our past hurts, beyond past experiences and move from perception to concrete, living in the present. If we remain in our material thinking, only seeing what affects us personally or what hinders us or not seeing above and beyond where we are, we will remain in the world of selfishness and absurdity; life will not make sense, and we are left with only stress, despair, anxiety, and boredom. All this will be attributed to our alienation from God and/or our refusal to put our faith into a real able practice when we do know Him. When we 'feed' on our Lord, we will live an abundant and fulfilling life; only then, we can cross the obstacles and overcome life's ills and sin ( John 6:52-71; 14:17;16:1-15; Rom. 5:4-5; 7:21-25; 8:14, Gal. 4:6; 2 Cor. 3:18).

We commune with God to give Him our burdens and concerns. Think about these questions as you seek to deeper connection with the principles of God's Word into our lives, thinking, and behavior.

Seek Him and ask, what is my problem?
What am I doing wrong?
How can I be corrected?
What must I learn to grow in Christ?

We are enabled to grow By the Holy Spirit when our lives are transformed because we feed off Christ's precepts and life and get away from ourselves and the distractions that block our nurture of Him in order to apply ourselves to Him as He applied Himself for us (Neh. 8).

More here: http://www.intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?articleid=81337&columnid=3801
 

Satan the Roaring Lion

Satan is at war with Christianity; this is what Spiritual Warfare is all about.

Know 1 Peter 5:8 which reads: “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” Satan is not a wimp as some people teach, nor is he to be ignored; thus, we need to be prepared! Satan is not a cowardly lion like in the Wizard of Oz. A coward is someone who does not attract, and such a one invokes no fear; thus, no defense is needed. The term roaring lion comes from 1 Peter 5: 5-9, describing the most feared animal at that time. Such lions would strike absolute fear into the people who had no real defense against them (Psalm 7:2; 10:9-10; 22:13). This referred to Satan’s power and destructiveness, as he is someone who is out to get you and an enemy of God. He is your enemy, the devil/Satan, as his name means “the slanderer” and “our adversary.” This refers to the accuser or the prosecutor (Job 1:6-12; 2:12; Zech. 3:1-2; Rev. 12: 9-10). Peter says Satan is seeking to accuse us of wrong so he can blind us to God’s love and grace. He twists our mindsets to be ashamed, seek apostasy (because we think God does not care), or into not taking our faith seriously.

Satan seeks us out as the lion who seeks the weak prey. His prey is Christians, specifically those who are not mature and not always faithful. Christian maturity requires us to submit and to be humble. The result is respect, cooperation, unity, community, and the power of His Fruit at work. This is our armor and defense against Spiritual Warfare. But, if we do not submit, have no regard for unity, or have no respect for authority, our sinful nature will win out. The result will be Satan’s influence causing us to succumb to quarrels (because of pride), discord, and shame.

We have to see that God wants us to submit; this is best for us, both individually and collectively as a church. Keep in mind that when God talks about Spiritual Warfare in the Bible, it is in the context of who we are and how we are to be in Him! Humility, Fruit, and Character in the Word builds not only our precious relationship with Christ, but our defense in Him as well. He knows that his time is short. Satan knows that his authority and dominion are still under God’s sovereignty; he can do only what God allows for His purpose. Satan has lost and fights like a cornered animal as well as using all the weapons at his disposal to oppose God’s people and goodness. In the last days, he will become more intensely hostile toward the people of God (1 Peter 5:5-9).

Satan also seeks to destroy those who are doing a good work, those who are faithful and being used in service to Him for His glory. He hates those who live their lives for Christ, thus may wage war upon you. So, it is very important to remain in Him and stick to His precepts. Being a Christian and a church is about relying on Christ, not ourselves; it is about His mighty power at work in us—not our feeble ways! It is not allowing our frustrations, disappointments, and failures take hold of us and cause us to concentrate on them and not on Christ. His favor and power will be poured out on us when we are faithful, obedient, and meek (strength under control). Nevertheless, be warned; pride is the complete opposite of these. Pride is what Satan is all about; it will destroy relationships and churches fast and furiously. That is why God hates it so much! Thus, to be confident in Jesus and be used by Him, we need Him to empower us. With this mindset and empowering, we do not need to worry or fret because our mind is not on our status, situation, possessions, or experiences, but on Christ! We can then know the devil’s lies and ways. This comes about when we realize that Jesus does indeed care, and loves us ever so deeply!

The devil gets a hold on us when we fail to comply with the previous precepts of humility, Fruit, and Character! He will attack to discourage and sway us away from God and His ways. Our defense is simple; we are to stand firm in Christ, pray, and allow His work in us to be demonstrated; what we alone would bring to the table would just be fuel for the devil and his ways!

We also can be comforted that God is totally sovereign and Satan can do nothing to us other that what God allows. However, he still has power and has not been tamed yet. Consider that your will is the door through which he comes prowling and attacking; why give him an open door? Satan is still our adversary; he not only wants to take you away from God‘s love and precepts, he wants to utterly destroy you! Peter’s point in 1 Peter 5? Be on your guard and resist him; do not let Satan have that open door—as Peter personally experienced (Luke 22:31-34; Eph. 6:10-20)!

More here: http://70030.netministry.com/pages.asp?pageid=53505

Why does your church Exist?

The Church exists by what Christ has done for us in and for His Glory!

According to Scripture, the Church exists because of what Christ has done for us in His glory and the production of His love and work. The church exists for us to be in Christ our Lord, to be His people, His hands, and His feet to first worship Him as Lord, and then respond by our work to build His Kingdome.  

The church exits to glorify our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and it continues to be inhabited by the people God chooses, and the response we give back to Him. God is our God and we are called to be His people, so let’s do this, let’s do a better job at it. In all honesty, most of us suck at it! Because we are so engrossed with our petty desires and trend chasing we forget the main thing! That Christ is Lord over our Church and we are supposed to glorify Him, not please ourselves or others!   

Time for a history lesson on why we do church. What started as a system of sacrifices performed by a specific, chosen tribe of priests who were the primary teachers and caregivers, moved and transitioned through God’s covenants to the modern church of today. The early Jews had exclusive rights to the things of God, including the writings of Moses. The main part of the sanctuary was accessible by the high priest only, and that inner sanctuary journey happened only once a year. By the work of our Lord, the old church was broken down and became accessible to all that would accept and believe at any time—by the work of our Lord and not by any human effort. The Lord was accessible to one nation who had the responsibility to spread His Word to all nations. This is why the land of Israel was and is so important; in that day, just about every group of people in the world would travel through Israel to Egypt and back. As the principle trade route brought countless numbers of people through it, Israel had the opportunity to be the evangelists of the Glory of God to the world. When they did, they were blessed, such as in Solomon’s time.  

The cross replaced the old way of the church, and the veil of the temple was torn from top to bottom to lift up our Lord and the church became poured out by the Spirit to us, the body. Thus, the ministry and responsibilities became real and relevant to all rather than to just a handful of priests. The experience of the church was for all, and the ministry for all believers became our call.  

When Christ was put to death for our sins, the Temple veil was torn. The veil’s job was to separate the priests and the holiness of God from the people; it protected God from our sin, and protected us from the wrath of God. The veil has been lifted, or actually torn in two, because Christ paid that debt, and we now have access to God without fear of retribution.  

God still chooses people into the ministry as a call and vocation, and their responsibility is to administer the Word and Sacraments. They are responsible to equip and train the lay people, and do the priestly things of marriage, burial, the Lord’s Supper, and proclaiming the Word and most importantly, Worship Christ as Lord.  

The problem we run into is that most churches have forgotten that the veil has been torn, and expect the pastor to perform everything while they sit as spectators. They want their ears tickled; they want this, that and the other thing to make them happy. Therefore, they do not have to fulfill their responsibility and call, when one can sit and take no responsibility or determination in ones faith.  

We must ask the question do we have a healthy understanding of the purpose and mission of the church and the role of the lay person and the pastor? Do we know why we exist as a church, not the pastors pathetic or wayward vision; rather the call of our Lord? So, let’s do this, let’s do a better job at it!  

Not sure what that call is? It is here: Colossians 1:15-23

A good leader sets their lead from Jesus the Good Shepherd!

John 10:1-42

The key to being a good shepherd, to being a good church leader and effectual pastor, is the very principle of importance we so often forget as it is the simplest call--look to Jesus. Not look to what I can do, what I have done, what I see others do, what I want to do, simply look at our basic job description to care for His sheep. To look to Christ as He said, I am the good shepherd. Our calling is to fully take hold of the fact that we are as caretakers to His sheep; Jesus is the One who leads, equips, and guides us- aspect s we all urgently need. God is the Shepherd for His people, and His people are portrayed as a flock that needs His leading and provision. It is our call to hear His voice and obey, as a good sheep does, in order to be fed and not be eaten by predators (Gen. 48:15; 49:24; Psalm 23; 28:9; 77:20; 78:52, 71; 79:13; 80:1; 100:3; Isa. 40:11; 63:11; Jer. 23:1; 31:10; 34:11-16; Ezek. 34:6-16, 31; Hos. 6:6; Zech. 13:7; Matt. 26:31; John 10:1-8; 16:13-15; Rom. 10:7; Heb. 13:20; 1 Pet. 5:4; Rev. 7:17).

We must be true to His Word as leaders and as His children first. Jesus tells us that Scripture cannot be broken. God's Word is True and no one can do anything to hurt it or break it; it stands on its own and forever. To do our own thing, to water down His Word or lead others astray does us and them no good. To listen and trust in God is a prime statute in our covenant with God as His people. It is our call and duty to pay attention to God, His precepts in His Word, the Bible, and the leading of the Holy Spirit that will not contradict the principles or character of the Bible (2 Tim. 3:16; Heb. 4:12).

Jesus calls us to know and understand. If someone did not hear the teaching correctly, he would not understand. This refers to obedience and trust, and it stems from the person's motives as to whether he will obey or remain in their pride and sin. Jesus uses this feast day to challenge us to do as this feast testifies--to rededicate ourselves to our Most Holy God (Jer. 23:4; John 17:17).
Thus, to be a faithful leader, we garner the ability to assume a long-term personal responsibil­ity for the spiritual welfare of a group of Believers with love, care, discipleship, and counseling, moving them to a deeper spiritual connection and maturity with Christ. We come to our people with the empowered Fruit of the Spirit as guardians and protectors-like 'sentinels.' This was someone who protected an estate or farm and served its owners. Our 'Overseer' is Christ (John 10:1-18)! Anyone in church leadership (like Elders) now fill this role, as Christ's workmen, as both shepherds and overseers; we are to look out for the welfare of the flock-the church-by training, caring for, and administering His love and precepts (John 10:1-18; Acts 14:23; 20:17, 28;Eph. 4:11-14; 1 Tim. 3:1-7; 5:15; Titus 1:5-16; 1 Pet. 5:1-4).