Although we cannot know everything about the future, God knows everything about it and he has in Scripture told us about the major events yet to come in the history of the universe. There have been many debates in the history of the church over questions regarding the future. In this study we will deal specifically with the Return of Jesus. We will start with those things on which all evangelicals agree and then move to the more controversial issues.
The Return o fChrist is a major doctrine of Christianity which is often overlooked
I. There will be a Sudden, Personal, Visible , Bodily Return of Jesus
A. In the Old Testament.
Psalm 50:3-6 Our God shall come, and shall not keep silence: a fire shall devour before him, and it shall be very tempestuous round about him. 4 He shall call to the heavens from above, and to the earth, that he may judge his people. 5 Gather my saints together unto me; those that have made a covenant with me by sacrifice. 6 And the heavens shall declare his righteousness: for God is judge himself. Selah.
Isaiah 66:15,16,18,23,24 For, behold, the LORD will come with fire, and with his chariots like a whirlwind, to render his anger with fury, and his rebuke with flames of fire. 16 For by fire and by his sword will the LORD plead with all flesh: and the slain of the LORD shall be many. 18 For I know their works and their thoughts: it shall come, that I will gather all nations and tongues; and they shall come, and see my glory. 23 And it shall come to pass, that from one new moon to another, and from one sabbath to another, shall all flesh come to worship before me, saith the LORD. 24 And they shall go forth, and look upon the carcases of the men that have transgressed against me: for their worm shall not die, neither shall their fire be quenched; and they shall be an abhorring unto all flesh.
B. Predicted by Jesus
John 14:3And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.
Matthew 24:44 Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.
Revelation 2:25; 22:7,12,20 But that which ye have already hold fast till I come. 7 Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book. 12 And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. 20 He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.
C Predicted By Angels
Acts 1:11 Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.
D. Predicted By the early church
Acts 3:20,21 And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you: 21 Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.
1 Cor.1:7 So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ:
1 Cor 4:5 Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.
1 Cor 11:26 For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord’s death till he come.
1 Cor 15:20-25 But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. 21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. 23 But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his coming. 24 Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. 25 For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet.
1 Cor 16:22 If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema, Maranatha. (maranatha means come quickly)
Colossians 3:4 When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.
1 Thessalonians 4:16; 5:23 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
2 Thessalonians 1:7,8; And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, 8 In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:
2 Thess 2:1-2 Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him, 2 That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand.
1 Timothy 6:14 That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ:
2 Timothy 4:1,2,8 I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; 2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.
Titus 2:11-14 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, 12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; 13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; 14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.
Hebrews 9:28 So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.
James 5:8 Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.
1 Peter 1:7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:
This theme is the dominant hope of the NT church. That Jesus himself is coming to earth once again in bodily form. It is worthwhile to meditate on the many scriptures that testify to these truths.
Friday, April 27, 2007
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Spiritual Authority Conclusion
Concluding our study on Spiritual Authority
Authority exercised in the church is divine authority expressed through those in official authority.
Therefore, there is such a thing as spiritual leadership and oversight. Leaders would be good to exemplify the service that Jesus did and really play the role of servant. As they play the role of servant, they will have the greatest impact. When we Lord it over others we are going against the will of God.
All Christians should have an attitude of submission. Those that are more mature in the things of God, especially those who labor in the word and have proven their servanthood, should be respected and their words given great weight. We reject these at our peril and to the peril of the church. If all Christians cultivated this humble submission and sought out and heeded the instruction of elders, the church would thrive.
Those that are submitted to God’s authority will then sense divine authority in other places. In meekness and humility they will respect the instituted authorities and exercise the authority they were given to wield. As this happens the Kingdom of God is established!
The Church is not a pure democracy and it is not a dictatorship. The church is not led by majority vote as a matter of course. It is to be led by leaders. But leaders are to be proven by their servitude and when given official position it is merely a recognition of this.
Elders then are to lead not through command but through persuasion to obey what is perceived to be the will of God. Domineering issue of commands has no place in the church of Jesus Christ--especially when it is in a gray area or a subjective area.
Leaders are to be gentle servers and persuaders. If leaders led more as servants and the church were more submissive to their leaders we would have much greater order in the church.
Authority exercised in the church is divine authority expressed through those in official authority.
Therefore, there is such a thing as spiritual leadership and oversight. Leaders would be good to exemplify the service that Jesus did and really play the role of servant. As they play the role of servant, they will have the greatest impact. When we Lord it over others we are going against the will of God.
All Christians should have an attitude of submission. Those that are more mature in the things of God, especially those who labor in the word and have proven their servanthood, should be respected and their words given great weight. We reject these at our peril and to the peril of the church. If all Christians cultivated this humble submission and sought out and heeded the instruction of elders, the church would thrive.
Those that are submitted to God’s authority will then sense divine authority in other places. In meekness and humility they will respect the instituted authorities and exercise the authority they were given to wield. As this happens the Kingdom of God is established!
The Church is not a pure democracy and it is not a dictatorship. The church is not led by majority vote as a matter of course. It is to be led by leaders. But leaders are to be proven by their servitude and when given official position it is merely a recognition of this.
Elders then are to lead not through command but through persuasion to obey what is perceived to be the will of God. Domineering issue of commands has no place in the church of Jesus Christ--especially when it is in a gray area or a subjective area.
Leaders are to be gentle servers and persuaders. If leaders led more as servants and the church were more submissive to their leaders we would have much greater order in the church.
Monday, April 23, 2007
Apostolic Authority and Spiritual Submission
The twelve apostles surely held a unique place in God’s economy. But there were other apostles like Paul, Barnabus, James, Timothy and Silas. The chief work of an apostle is to raise up local assemblies. Do apostles have official authority to control the affairs of local churches?
There is a distinction between the church and the work. The work was the responsibility of the workers who raise and establish churches and then move on. The church is the responsibility of the responsible brothers (elders)who are part of the local assembly.
So, as the apostles raised up the assembly, they partially were responsible for the church but this was an incubation phase. That is why Paul rented his own house to conduct apostolic meetings alongside the church in Acts 28--and why he had meetings in the school of Tyrannus.
These meetings were "equipping" or "teaching" meetings. The apostles never settled down to “officially pastor” local churches. They always had their eye on moving on. The Work is roving, regional. The Church is local and resident. A careful study of Paul’s apostolic journeys reveal that he spent astonishingly little time in planting churches. Four months each in the case of the Galatian churches. He would lay a solid foundation and leave.
Paul had a delegated authority to build up the church
2 Corinthians 10:8 For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed:
But Paul encouraged churches to judge his words to see if they were of God. Not to accept them unconditionally.
1 Corinthians 10:15 I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say.
It is clear from the persuasive tone that permeates his letters, that Paul treated the churches as a father would treat his adult children, not as toddlers. In this way, Paul gave his judgment on church affairs not unilateral decrees.
1 Corinthians 5:3-5, 12-13 For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so done this deed, 4 In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, 5 To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord 12 For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within? 13 But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.
Paul reaches his own judgment, but then tells the entire church to discipline him on its own. Paul did not issue a unilateral decree settling the matter but urged the congregation to do so. Paul did not want the churches to be dependent on Him but on Christ! So he progressively moved then in this direction.
1 Corinthians 2:4-5 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: 5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
Paul refrained from using the very strong word "epitage" (commandment) to charge obedience to himself.
1 Corinthians 7:6 But I speak this by permission, and not of (epitage) commandment.
1 Corinthians 7:25 Now concerning virgins I have no commandment (epitage) of the Lord: yet I give my judgment, as one that hath obtained mercy of the Lord to be faithful.
When Paul did urge “commands”, it had to do with the authority of the Lord!
2 Thess 3:6-7 In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command (paraggello) you, brothers, to keep away from every brother who is idle and does not live according to the teaching you received from us.
2 Thess 3:12 Such people we command (paraggello) and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the bread they eat.
Paraggelllo means a message transmitted from someone else! He was communicating the command of God!
When Paul called the believers to action, we find him urging , “beseeching”, and appealing, rather than issuing authoritarian decrees.
Romans 15:30 Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ’s sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that ye strive together with me in your prayers to God for me;
1 Corinthians 1:10 Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.
At times, when he needed to be sharp, he enjoined obedience to Christ rather than himself.
Romans 14:14 I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean.
1 Thessalonians 4:15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.
Because Paul often spoke the word of the Lord. he could say that those who rejected his words , rejected not him but Christ.
1 Thessalonians 4:8 He therefore that despiseth, despiseth not man, but God, who hath also given unto us his Holy Spirit.
Paul’s whole outlook of apostolic authority is crystallized in the following
2 Corinthians 1:24 Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand.
So we see that apostolic authority is delegated by God for a specific region. This authority is not to issue authoritarian decrees. But the empowerment to build up the church through expressing the mind, will, word of God. As this Word is expressed, it is authoritative , not by virtue of it coming from the apostle, but as it reflects God’s Mind.
There is a distinction between the church and the work. The work was the responsibility of the workers who raise and establish churches and then move on. The church is the responsibility of the responsible brothers (elders)who are part of the local assembly.
So, as the apostles raised up the assembly, they partially were responsible for the church but this was an incubation phase. That is why Paul rented his own house to conduct apostolic meetings alongside the church in Acts 28--and why he had meetings in the school of Tyrannus.
These meetings were "equipping" or "teaching" meetings. The apostles never settled down to “officially pastor” local churches. They always had their eye on moving on. The Work is roving, regional. The Church is local and resident. A careful study of Paul’s apostolic journeys reveal that he spent astonishingly little time in planting churches. Four months each in the case of the Galatian churches. He would lay a solid foundation and leave.
Paul had a delegated authority to build up the church
2 Corinthians 10:8 For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed:
But Paul encouraged churches to judge his words to see if they were of God. Not to accept them unconditionally.
1 Corinthians 10:15 I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say.
It is clear from the persuasive tone that permeates his letters, that Paul treated the churches as a father would treat his adult children, not as toddlers. In this way, Paul gave his judgment on church affairs not unilateral decrees.
1 Corinthians 5:3-5, 12-13 For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so done this deed, 4 In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, 5 To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord 12 For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within? 13 But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.
Paul reaches his own judgment, but then tells the entire church to discipline him on its own. Paul did not issue a unilateral decree settling the matter but urged the congregation to do so. Paul did not want the churches to be dependent on Him but on Christ! So he progressively moved then in this direction.
1 Corinthians 2:4-5 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: 5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
Paul refrained from using the very strong word "epitage" (commandment) to charge obedience to himself.
1 Corinthians 7:6 But I speak this by permission, and not of (epitage) commandment.
1 Corinthians 7:25 Now concerning virgins I have no commandment (epitage) of the Lord: yet I give my judgment, as one that hath obtained mercy of the Lord to be faithful.
When Paul did urge “commands”, it had to do with the authority of the Lord!
2 Thess 3:6-7 In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command (paraggello) you, brothers, to keep away from every brother who is idle and does not live according to the teaching you received from us.
2 Thess 3:12 Such people we command (paraggello) and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the bread they eat.
Paraggelllo means a message transmitted from someone else! He was communicating the command of God!
When Paul called the believers to action, we find him urging , “beseeching”, and appealing, rather than issuing authoritarian decrees.
Romans 15:30 Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ’s sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that ye strive together with me in your prayers to God for me;
1 Corinthians 1:10 Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.
At times, when he needed to be sharp, he enjoined obedience to Christ rather than himself.
Romans 14:14 I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean.
1 Thessalonians 4:15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.
Because Paul often spoke the word of the Lord. he could say that those who rejected his words , rejected not him but Christ.
1 Thessalonians 4:8 He therefore that despiseth, despiseth not man, but God, who hath also given unto us his Holy Spirit.
Paul’s whole outlook of apostolic authority is crystallized in the following
2 Corinthians 1:24 Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand.
So we see that apostolic authority is delegated by God for a specific region. This authority is not to issue authoritarian decrees. But the empowerment to build up the church through expressing the mind, will, word of God. As this Word is expressed, it is authoritative , not by virtue of it coming from the apostle, but as it reflects God’s Mind.
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Abuse of Spiritual Authority
Conitnuing our study on Spiritual authority.
We are called to represent the Spirit’s will to each other--not to substitute for Him or replace His work. Mutual subjection is not a license to probe into the intimate affairs of our brethren. Nowhere does the Bible give Christians liberty to quiz brethren on financial investments, or how they make love to their wives. This kind of unnecessary probing in the name of accountability is what authoritarian cults are made of. A believer should willingly confide. This is a choice, not a duty.
The Bible puts a high premium on individual Christian liberty, freedom and privacy.
Galatians 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.
Colossians 2:16 Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days:
James 4:11-12 Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge. 12 There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?
As Christians , we are not to be busybodies.
1 Timothy 5:13 And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not.
1 Peter 4:15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters.
Unless there is good reason to suspect a brother is in sin, it is unchristian to poke and pry into their domestic affairs. Mutual subjection to divine authority is not control but aid. It is not official, legal, or mechanical but functional.
The Cost.
Mutual subjection is not morally relative, tolerant egalitarianism. Receiving correction, and reproof from others is difficult. That is why is serves as an antidote to the flesh. Exercising divine authority is also difficult. The task of reproving others is not fun but risky. It is far easier to let things go and just pray, than to lovingly confront.
We are called to represent the Spirit’s will to each other--not to substitute for Him or replace His work. Mutual subjection is not a license to probe into the intimate affairs of our brethren. Nowhere does the Bible give Christians liberty to quiz brethren on financial investments, or how they make love to their wives. This kind of unnecessary probing in the name of accountability is what authoritarian cults are made of. A believer should willingly confide. This is a choice, not a duty.
The Bible puts a high premium on individual Christian liberty, freedom and privacy.
Galatians 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.
Colossians 2:16 Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days:
James 4:11-12 Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge. 12 There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?
As Christians , we are not to be busybodies.
1 Timothy 5:13 And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not.
1 Peter 4:15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters.
Unless there is good reason to suspect a brother is in sin, it is unchristian to poke and pry into their domestic affairs. Mutual subjection to divine authority is not control but aid. It is not official, legal, or mechanical but functional.
The Cost.
Mutual subjection is not morally relative, tolerant egalitarianism. Receiving correction, and reproof from others is difficult. That is why is serves as an antidote to the flesh. Exercising divine authority is also difficult. The task of reproving others is not fun but risky. It is far easier to let things go and just pray, than to lovingly confront.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Who Should We Subject Ourselves To ?
We continue our study of spiritual authority. Last time we saw the difference betwn subjection and obedience. Now the question is: who do we subject ourselves to. Let's look at the scriptures.
1. Official Authorities should be obeyed as long as what they declare does not violate the will of a higher authority
a) Parents
Ephesians 6:1 Children, obey(hupakouo) your parents in the Lord: for this is right.
Colossians 3:20 Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.
b) Government leaders
Titus 3:1 Put them in mind to be subject(hupotasso) to principalities and powers(exousia), to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,
c) Employers
Ephesians 6:5 Servants, be obedient(hupakouo) to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ;
Colossians 3:22 Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God:
d) to church leaders – an attitude of submission
1 Corinthians 16:10-11 Now if Timotheus come, see that he may be with you without fear: for he worketh the work of the Lord, as I also do. 11 Let no man therefore despise him: but conduct him forth in peace, that he may come unto me: for I look for him with the brethren.
1 Corinthians 16:15-18 I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints,) 16 That ye submit yourselves (hupotasso) unto such, and to every one that helpeth with us, and laboureth. 17 I am glad of the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus: for that which was lacking on your part they have supplied. 18 For they have refreshed my spirit and yours: therefore acknowledge ye them that are such.
Philippians 2:29-30 Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation(value): 30 Because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me.
1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you (proistemi-forefront)in the Lord, and admonish you; 13 And to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves.
1 Timothy 5:17 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.
Hebrews 13:17 Obey(peitho) them that have the rule over you, (hegeomai)and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.
2 Corinthians 8:22 And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, upon the great confidence which I have in you.
Clearly the NT exhorts believers to esteem and to give weight to those who work tirelessly in spiritual service. But again, here we see Paul continually refer to the labor of those that should be esteemed. It is merited. Secondly, he never enjoins unconditional obedience but calls for an attitude of hupotasso or a submissive attitude to their instruction.
2 Thess 3:14 If anyone does not obey (hupakouo) our instruction (logos) in this letter, take special note of him. Do not associate with him, in order that he may feel ashamed.
One could say in the above scripture , that Paul was enjoining obedience not to his will but what he believed to be the clear will of God as expressed in this letter. The word for instruction used is "logos" which usually relates to the content.
e) Mutual subjection
Ephesians 5:21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
1 Peter 5:5 Likewise, ye younger, submit (hupotasso) yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.
The Bible teaches mutual subjection, not protective covering. Mutual subjection rests upon the idea that all believers are gifted and can all express Christ. It rests on the concept that the entire Body has been vested with Divine authority-- not just a small section of it.
Matthew 18:15-20 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. 16 But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. 17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. 18 Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. 19 Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.
Matthew 16:16-19 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. 18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. 19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
Ephesians 1:19-23 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, 20 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, 21 Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: 22 And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, 23 Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.
As the members of the community discharge their ministries, authority is dispensed through the gifts. We must be open for the Lord to correct us through one another. Mutual submission is subjection to Christ’s authority. When another believer is expressing divine authority in the church, we do well to recognize it and be subject to it. To reject someone’s words when they are expressing divine thought is to reject Divine authority. Love is always open to learn from and listen to what others have to say. At the same time, love is willing to admonish.
1. Official Authorities should be obeyed as long as what they declare does not violate the will of a higher authority
a) Parents
Ephesians 6:1 Children, obey(hupakouo) your parents in the Lord: for this is right.
Colossians 3:20 Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.
b) Government leaders
Titus 3:1 Put them in mind to be subject(hupotasso) to principalities and powers(exousia), to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,
c) Employers
Ephesians 6:5 Servants, be obedient(hupakouo) to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ;
Colossians 3:22 Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God:
d) to church leaders – an attitude of submission
1 Corinthians 16:10-11 Now if Timotheus come, see that he may be with you without fear: for he worketh the work of the Lord, as I also do. 11 Let no man therefore despise him: but conduct him forth in peace, that he may come unto me: for I look for him with the brethren.
1 Corinthians 16:15-18 I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints,) 16 That ye submit yourselves (hupotasso) unto such, and to every one that helpeth with us, and laboureth. 17 I am glad of the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus: for that which was lacking on your part they have supplied. 18 For they have refreshed my spirit and yours: therefore acknowledge ye them that are such.
Philippians 2:29-30 Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation(value): 30 Because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me.
1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you (proistemi-forefront)in the Lord, and admonish you; 13 And to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves.
1 Timothy 5:17 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.
Hebrews 13:17 Obey(peitho) them that have the rule over you, (hegeomai)and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.
2 Corinthians 8:22 And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, upon the great confidence which I have in you.
Clearly the NT exhorts believers to esteem and to give weight to those who work tirelessly in spiritual service. But again, here we see Paul continually refer to the labor of those that should be esteemed. It is merited. Secondly, he never enjoins unconditional obedience but calls for an attitude of hupotasso or a submissive attitude to their instruction.
2 Thess 3:14 If anyone does not obey (hupakouo) our instruction (logos) in this letter, take special note of him. Do not associate with him, in order that he may feel ashamed.
One could say in the above scripture , that Paul was enjoining obedience not to his will but what he believed to be the clear will of God as expressed in this letter. The word for instruction used is "logos" which usually relates to the content.
e) Mutual subjection
Ephesians 5:21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
1 Peter 5:5 Likewise, ye younger, submit (hupotasso) yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.
The Bible teaches mutual subjection, not protective covering. Mutual subjection rests upon the idea that all believers are gifted and can all express Christ. It rests on the concept that the entire Body has been vested with Divine authority-- not just a small section of it.
Matthew 18:15-20 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. 16 But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. 17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. 18 Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. 19 Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.
Matthew 16:16-19 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. 18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. 19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
Ephesians 1:19-23 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, 20 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, 21 Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: 22 And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, 23 Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.
As the members of the community discharge their ministries, authority is dispensed through the gifts. We must be open for the Lord to correct us through one another. Mutual submission is subjection to Christ’s authority. When another believer is expressing divine authority in the church, we do well to recognize it and be subject to it. To reject someone’s words when they are expressing divine thought is to reject Divine authority. Love is always open to learn from and listen to what others have to say. At the same time, love is willing to admonish.
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Subjection vs. Obedience
We have been looking at the topic of spiritual authority. If we understand that there is a purpose to divine authority, then we need to submit to that authority. The Greek word most often translated “submit” in the NT is hupotasso. It would be better translated "subjection." It is a voluntary attitude of giving in, cooperating with, and yielding to the admonition or advice of another.
This is a beautiful attitude. But we must begin with what God wants, and with our individual subjection to Christ, His Word, and to each other in the fellowship
a) Subjection vs. Obedience
Subjection is an attitude. Obedience is an action. Subjection is unconditional. Obedience is conditional. Subjection is an inward attitude. Obedience is an outward conduct. God summons us to have a spirit of humble subjection toward those whom He has placed in official authority, yet we cannot obey them if they command us to do that which violates God’s will.
Exodus 1:17 But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Egypt commanded them, but saved the men children alive.
Daniel 3:17-18 If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. 18 But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.
Acts 4:18-20 And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. 19 But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. 20 For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.
One can disobey an earthly authority while maintaining a spirit of humble subjection.
This is a beautiful attitude. But we must begin with what God wants, and with our individual subjection to Christ, His Word, and to each other in the fellowship
a) Subjection vs. Obedience
Subjection is an attitude. Obedience is an action. Subjection is unconditional. Obedience is conditional. Subjection is an inward attitude. Obedience is an outward conduct. God summons us to have a spirit of humble subjection toward those whom He has placed in official authority, yet we cannot obey them if they command us to do that which violates God’s will.
Exodus 1:17 But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Egypt commanded them, but saved the men children alive.
Daniel 3:17-18 If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. 18 But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.
Acts 4:18-20 And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. 19 But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. 20 For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.
One can disobey an earthly authority while maintaining a spirit of humble subjection.
Monday, April 16, 2007
Authority In The Church
We have been looking a the topic of spiritual authority. Last time, we saw that official authority flows from divine authority. Authority in the government realm, or family realm is easily understood, but how does authority operate in the Church? The church is a very specific jurisdiction. Many Christians believe in a “Sola Pastora” where the Pastor calls the shots and there is no accountability. Some have reacted to this extreme and now endorse what amounts to a leaderless egalitarianism where consensus is stressed. Both of these are extremes. The biblical truth is somewhere in the middle as we shall see.
a) Jesus and the Gentile political model
Matthew 20:25-28 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. 26 But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; 27 And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: 28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
Luke 22:25-27 And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. 26 But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. 27 For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth.
In these key passages, Jesus was condemning the high handed style of official authority and saying that it was not to be so in the church. Those that were to be esteemed and recognized in official position were to be proven servants of God.
b) Jesus and the Jewish, religious model
Matthew 23:8-12 But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren. 9 And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven. 10 Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ. 11 But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. 12 And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.
From this scripture we glean the following: In the Jewish world, there was a clergy system where, religious leaders were given honorific titles. These titles weren’t of themselves a problem, unless they exalted themselves into positions of public display, and leadership rooted in status, prestige and titles.
In the kingdom, Jesus wants us to look to Him as Lord. All are brethren in the same family. There is the priesthood of all believers. Leaders are to find themselves in the towel of servitude and humility and leadership is rooted in inward character and life. But this is not to deny that there would be offices in the NT church. But that they were to flow from the towel of servitude.
The church is neither a dictatorship nor a democracy. It is to be led by elders who have proven themselves as shepherds, and are usually in plural leadership. Their leadership is not dictatorial but one of godly example and persuasion.
c) Jesus has delegated His authority to the Church!
The New Testament Leadership Model
1) Function Vs. Position
Most of the world sees leadership in a positional model. But leadership in the NT is not just positional but first functional. Rather than do away with position, we must establish position based upon function of the Spirit. But a functional mindset portrays authority in terms of how things operate organically. In other words, a premium is given to the activity of each member, his maturity, giftedness, and service.
2) Elders
In the Greek language, elder (presbuteros) simply means older man, therefore elders were simply spiritually mature men- who superintended the affairs of the local church. They were not professional clergy but raised up through the ranks by what they did. Shepherding was how they functioned. They were recognized and given official position after they had been proven servants!
3) The tragedy of past movements
In the seventies came the discipleship/shepherding movement which degraded into extreme forms of control and manipulation. The false assumption was that submission is the equivalent of unconditional obedience and that God vested certain people with unquestioned authority over others. Spiritual abuse was dismissed under the excuse that God would hold the individual shepherds responsible for wrong decisions. "The sheep just need to obey!" In reaction to this movement, many swung to the other extreme, against any form of leadership. But the church is not a leaderless, egalitarianism nor is it a rigid authoritarianism.
4) Jurisdictions
The Bible teaches that exousia or authority is delegated to specific people for specific things in the body. Even within the church there are specific jurisdictions. Apostles have authority of support and for speaking into the churches they plant! Elders have authority to lead the local church. The congregation has authority to discipline sin, settle disputes and propose candidates for leadership. It is very important to understand jurisdictions.
1 Cor 9:12-13 If others have this right (exousia) of support from you, shouldn't we have it all the more? But we did not use this right(exousia). On the contrary, we put up with anything rather than hinder the gospel of Christ.
1 Cor 9:18 What then is my reward? Just this: that in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, and so not make use of my rights(exousia) in preaching it.
2 Cor 13:10 This is why I write these things when I am absent, that when I come I may not have to be harsh in my use of authority(exousia) -the authority the Lord gave me for building you up, not for tearing you down
One could say that even these examples only reveal the "exousia" Paul had with the Corinthian church because of his relationship to them--being that he planted the church, and edified it. So this exousia was a result of his relationship with them not the cause of his relationship.
2 Cor 10:13-16 We, however, will not boast beyond proper limits, but will confine our boasting to the field God has assigned to us, a field that reaches even to you. 14 We are not going too far in our boasting, as would be the case if we had not come to you, for we did get as far as you with the gospel of Christ. 15 Neither do we go beyond our limits by boasting of work done by others. Our hope is that, as your faith continues to grow, our area of activity among you will greatly expand, 16 so that we can preach the gospel in the regions beyond you. For we do not want to boast about work already done in another man's territory.
a) Jesus and the Gentile political model
Matthew 20:25-28 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. 26 But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; 27 And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: 28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
Luke 22:25-27 And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. 26 But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. 27 For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth.
In these key passages, Jesus was condemning the high handed style of official authority and saying that it was not to be so in the church. Those that were to be esteemed and recognized in official position were to be proven servants of God.
b) Jesus and the Jewish, religious model
Matthew 23:8-12 But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren. 9 And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven. 10 Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ. 11 But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. 12 And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.
From this scripture we glean the following: In the Jewish world, there was a clergy system where, religious leaders were given honorific titles. These titles weren’t of themselves a problem, unless they exalted themselves into positions of public display, and leadership rooted in status, prestige and titles.
In the kingdom, Jesus wants us to look to Him as Lord. All are brethren in the same family. There is the priesthood of all believers. Leaders are to find themselves in the towel of servitude and humility and leadership is rooted in inward character and life. But this is not to deny that there would be offices in the NT church. But that they were to flow from the towel of servitude.
The church is neither a dictatorship nor a democracy. It is to be led by elders who have proven themselves as shepherds, and are usually in plural leadership. Their leadership is not dictatorial but one of godly example and persuasion.
c) Jesus has delegated His authority to the Church!
The New Testament Leadership Model
1) Function Vs. Position
Most of the world sees leadership in a positional model. But leadership in the NT is not just positional but first functional. Rather than do away with position, we must establish position based upon function of the Spirit. But a functional mindset portrays authority in terms of how things operate organically. In other words, a premium is given to the activity of each member, his maturity, giftedness, and service.
2) Elders
In the Greek language, elder (presbuteros) simply means older man, therefore elders were simply spiritually mature men- who superintended the affairs of the local church. They were not professional clergy but raised up through the ranks by what they did. Shepherding was how they functioned. They were recognized and given official position after they had been proven servants!
3) The tragedy of past movements
In the seventies came the discipleship/shepherding movement which degraded into extreme forms of control and manipulation. The false assumption was that submission is the equivalent of unconditional obedience and that God vested certain people with unquestioned authority over others. Spiritual abuse was dismissed under the excuse that God would hold the individual shepherds responsible for wrong decisions. "The sheep just need to obey!" In reaction to this movement, many swung to the other extreme, against any form of leadership. But the church is not a leaderless, egalitarianism nor is it a rigid authoritarianism.
4) Jurisdictions
The Bible teaches that exousia or authority is delegated to specific people for specific things in the body. Even within the church there are specific jurisdictions. Apostles have authority of support and for speaking into the churches they plant! Elders have authority to lead the local church. The congregation has authority to discipline sin, settle disputes and propose candidates for leadership. It is very important to understand jurisdictions.
1 Cor 9:12-13 If others have this right (exousia) of support from you, shouldn't we have it all the more? But we did not use this right(exousia). On the contrary, we put up with anything rather than hinder the gospel of Christ.
1 Cor 9:18 What then is my reward? Just this: that in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, and so not make use of my rights(exousia) in preaching it.
2 Cor 13:10 This is why I write these things when I am absent, that when I come I may not have to be harsh in my use of authority(exousia) -the authority the Lord gave me for building you up, not for tearing you down
One could say that even these examples only reveal the "exousia" Paul had with the Corinthian church because of his relationship to them--being that he planted the church, and edified it. So this exousia was a result of his relationship with them not the cause of his relationship.
2 Cor 10:13-16 We, however, will not boast beyond proper limits, but will confine our boasting to the field God has assigned to us, a field that reaches even to you. 14 We are not going too far in our boasting, as would be the case if we had not come to you, for we did get as far as you with the gospel of Christ. 15 Neither do we go beyond our limits by boasting of work done by others. Our hope is that, as your faith continues to grow, our area of activity among you will greatly expand, 16 so that we can preach the gospel in the regions beyond you. For we do not want to boast about work already done in another man's territory.
Friday, April 13, 2007
Spiritual Authority and Submission
Is there authority in the church? If so, what is the nature of that authority? To whom do we submit ourselves? These are very important for the church today. This is an area of great misunderstanding and abuse. My contention is that God never instituted men in the church to have absolute authority over other men. But the authority in the church was an authority to serve. Let’s take a comprehensive look at the scriptures.
I. ALL AUTHORITY COMES FROM GOD
Authority is a God given privilege to carry out an action. The NT word that comes closest to our word is exousia. - the right to carry out a particular action.
Rom 13:1-4 Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. 4 For he is God's servant to do you good.
II THIS AUTHORITY HAS BEEN VESTED IN HIS SON
Matthew 28:18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power (exousia) is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
John 3:30-36 He must increase, but I must decrease. 31 He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all. 32 And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony. 33 He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true. 34 For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him. 35 The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand. 36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
III. GOD HAS DELEGATED HIS AUTHORITY TO MEN AND WOMEN ON EARTH FOR SPECIFIC PURPOSES.
All authority does not look the same. Authority over self, over family, over government, and in church all have their own distinctives. It is not a one size fits all.
1. OFFICIAL AUTHORITY AND DIVINE AUTHORITY
Official authority has to do with office, and position. Divine authority is what is given by God. So any official authority flows from divine authority. Some have gone so far as to say that there is no official authority in the church. But again, it is not either/or but both/and. One is the result of the other. Official authority flows from divine authority.
Romans 13:1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. (exousia) For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
1 Timothy 2:2 For kings, and for all that are in authority;(huperoche) that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
The Centurion compares his authority with the Lord’s:
Matthew 8:9 For I am a man under authority, (exousia) having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.
John 19:10-11 Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not that I have power(exousia) to crucify thee, and have power to release thee? 11 Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.
Acts 23:2-5 And the high priest Ananias commanded them that stood by him to smite him on the mouth. 3 Then said Paul unto him, God shall smite thee, thou whited wall: for sittest thou to judge me after the law, and commandest me to be smitten contrary to the law? 4 And they that stood by said, Revilest thou God’s high priest? 5 Then said Paul, I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest: for it is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler (archon) of thy people.
Paul recognized that he should have respected the office because it was given by God. Just as David respected Saul because of the office.
Acts 26:10,12 Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority (exousia) from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them. 12 Whereupon as I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests,
1 Peter 2:13,14,19 Submit(hupotasso) yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; 14 Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. 19 For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.
Ephesians 5:22-23 Wives, submit (hupotasso) yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.
Again, official authority is authority that is vested in a static office without regard to the action of person who has it. It is positional authority. It is fixed, external. It is for this reason that Christians are charged to be subject to the official leaders of government, regardless of their character as long as they do not go against the Word of God. But we shall see that this recognized office flows out of divine authority.
Acts 5:29 Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.
Here we see that when official authority went against the divine jurisdiction, that it was necessary to obey the divine over the official authority.
I. ALL AUTHORITY COMES FROM GOD
Authority is a God given privilege to carry out an action. The NT word that comes closest to our word is exousia. - the right to carry out a particular action.
Rom 13:1-4 Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. 4 For he is God's servant to do you good.
II THIS AUTHORITY HAS BEEN VESTED IN HIS SON
Matthew 28:18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power (exousia) is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
John 3:30-36 He must increase, but I must decrease. 31 He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all. 32 And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony. 33 He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true. 34 For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him. 35 The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand. 36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
III. GOD HAS DELEGATED HIS AUTHORITY TO MEN AND WOMEN ON EARTH FOR SPECIFIC PURPOSES.
All authority does not look the same. Authority over self, over family, over government, and in church all have their own distinctives. It is not a one size fits all.
1. OFFICIAL AUTHORITY AND DIVINE AUTHORITY
Official authority has to do with office, and position. Divine authority is what is given by God. So any official authority flows from divine authority. Some have gone so far as to say that there is no official authority in the church. But again, it is not either/or but both/and. One is the result of the other. Official authority flows from divine authority.
Romans 13:1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. (exousia) For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
1 Timothy 2:2 For kings, and for all that are in authority;(huperoche) that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
The Centurion compares his authority with the Lord’s:
Matthew 8:9 For I am a man under authority, (exousia) having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.
John 19:10-11 Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not that I have power(exousia) to crucify thee, and have power to release thee? 11 Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.
Acts 23:2-5 And the high priest Ananias commanded them that stood by him to smite him on the mouth. 3 Then said Paul unto him, God shall smite thee, thou whited wall: for sittest thou to judge me after the law, and commandest me to be smitten contrary to the law? 4 And they that stood by said, Revilest thou God’s high priest? 5 Then said Paul, I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest: for it is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler (archon) of thy people.
Paul recognized that he should have respected the office because it was given by God. Just as David respected Saul because of the office.
Acts 26:10,12 Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority (exousia) from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them. 12 Whereupon as I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests,
1 Peter 2:13,14,19 Submit(hupotasso) yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; 14 Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. 19 For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.
Ephesians 5:22-23 Wives, submit (hupotasso) yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.
Again, official authority is authority that is vested in a static office without regard to the action of person who has it. It is positional authority. It is fixed, external. It is for this reason that Christians are charged to be subject to the official leaders of government, regardless of their character as long as they do not go against the Word of God. But we shall see that this recognized office flows out of divine authority.
Acts 5:29 Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.
Here we see that when official authority went against the divine jurisdiction, that it was necessary to obey the divine over the official authority.
Thursday, April 12, 2007
THE RESURRECTION RELEASES THE HOLY SPIRIT!
John 7:37-39 On the last and greatest day of the Feast, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. 38 Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him." 39 By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. Up to that time the Spirit had not been given, since Jesus had not yet been glorified.
Here is an incredible scripture. Jesus first proclaims this greater release of the Holy Spirit that was coming, yet the scripture reveals that the Spirit could not come UNTIL the glorification o fJesus in his resurrection and ascension.
No Resurrection and Ascension --No Pentecost!
Acts 2:32-34 God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of the fact. 33 Exalted to the right hand of God, he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear.
On the day of Pentecost, when the Holy spirit was poured out in the way that had been predicted, Peter explains that when Jesus ascended that he received this ability to pour out the Holy Spirit. This is the Gift of the Holy spirit himself. The third person of the Trinity. Isn't that amazing that the third person of the Trinity was awaiting the arrival of the Son to be released from heaven unto men?
John the Baptist said "I baptize you with water but Jesus will baptize you with the Holy Spirit."
Jesus told the disciples, after he gave the Great Commission in Matt 28, that they were to wait in Jerusalem to receive the power from on high that would enable them to complete the mission.
The promise of the Holy Spirit is a present promise. It is a promise that has become a reality becasue of the Resurrection and Ascension of the Lord Jesus Christ! Blessings
Here is an incredible scripture. Jesus first proclaims this greater release of the Holy Spirit that was coming, yet the scripture reveals that the Spirit could not come UNTIL the glorification o fJesus in his resurrection and ascension.
No Resurrection and Ascension --No Pentecost!
Acts 2:32-34 God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of the fact. 33 Exalted to the right hand of God, he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear.
On the day of Pentecost, when the Holy spirit was poured out in the way that had been predicted, Peter explains that when Jesus ascended that he received this ability to pour out the Holy Spirit. This is the Gift of the Holy spirit himself. The third person of the Trinity. Isn't that amazing that the third person of the Trinity was awaiting the arrival of the Son to be released from heaven unto men?
John the Baptist said "I baptize you with water but Jesus will baptize you with the Holy Spirit."
Jesus told the disciples, after he gave the Great Commission in Matt 28, that they were to wait in Jerusalem to receive the power from on high that would enable them to complete the mission.
The promise of the Holy Spirit is a present promise. It is a promise that has become a reality becasue of the Resurrection and Ascension of the Lord Jesus Christ! Blessings
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
The Resurrection Gives Us Life And Hope
THE RESURRECTION GIVES US LIFE!
John 11:25-26 Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; 26 and whoever lives and believes in me will never die.
Eph 2:4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions
We have spiritual life because Jesus lives! If we had a dead savior we might have an historical faith, but it would be a dead faith. Yet Christ lives forevermore and he continues to do what he has always done and that is to give life and that abundantly, because He is the way , the truth and the life!
Many believers, don't understand their spiritual union with Christ right now. As we saw before we are seated with Christ. His life has become our life!
Col 3:1-4 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
If He is raised then so are we. We have been raised from spiritual death and given spiritual life. Paul says that we should set our minds on these spiritual realities not on the things of earth. Our greater reality is with Christ in heaven.
Think about it, if you had to heal a man who had died of cancer you would have to do two things: Raise him to life AND heal the cancer. If you just healed the cancer, you would have a cancer free corpse. If you only brought him back to life, he would die soon because of his disease. You need both. That is what Christ did. Not only did he make forgiveness possible by dying for the cancer of sin, he gave us spiritual life when we were spiritually dead to God.
As we fix our eyes on the heavenly realities and our hearts and affection on those things, the things of this earth lose their appeal.
THE RESURRECTION GIVES US HOPE!
1 Cor 15:19-22 If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men. 20 But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. 21 For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. 22 For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive
We have hope because we know that this life is not all that there is. We will overcome death itself, just like Christ, and will experience a resurrection and a new body! Since Jesus is the "first fruits", other fruit is sure to flow-- namely us. Paul cries out in triumph. "Death is swallowed up in victory!"
1 Peter 1:3-4 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade-kept in heaven for you
1 Thess 4:13-14 Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. 14 We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.
We don not have to grieve like the rest of men who have no hope. We have an afterlife with Christ and know that we will meet even those who departed this earth in the Lord. Every believer need not fear death, for we know where we are going because of what Jesus has done on the cross. He has destroyed the power of death for his people and will raise them to new life to be with him forever. "Behold I go ahead of you to prepare a place for you If it were not so I would have told you."
Therefore, we can live with boldness. To live is Christ, to die is gain. We don't have to fear the future because we know that God is faithful to keep what we have entrusted to Him.
We are living in a new era. The era between the comings of Christ. We know that Jesus is coming back the same way that he left the earth.
John 11:25-26 Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; 26 and whoever lives and believes in me will never die.
Eph 2:4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions
We have spiritual life because Jesus lives! If we had a dead savior we might have an historical faith, but it would be a dead faith. Yet Christ lives forevermore and he continues to do what he has always done and that is to give life and that abundantly, because He is the way , the truth and the life!
Many believers, don't understand their spiritual union with Christ right now. As we saw before we are seated with Christ. His life has become our life!
Col 3:1-4 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
If He is raised then so are we. We have been raised from spiritual death and given spiritual life. Paul says that we should set our minds on these spiritual realities not on the things of earth. Our greater reality is with Christ in heaven.
Think about it, if you had to heal a man who had died of cancer you would have to do two things: Raise him to life AND heal the cancer. If you just healed the cancer, you would have a cancer free corpse. If you only brought him back to life, he would die soon because of his disease. You need both. That is what Christ did. Not only did he make forgiveness possible by dying for the cancer of sin, he gave us spiritual life when we were spiritually dead to God.
As we fix our eyes on the heavenly realities and our hearts and affection on those things, the things of this earth lose their appeal.
THE RESURRECTION GIVES US HOPE!
1 Cor 15:19-22 If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men. 20 But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. 21 For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. 22 For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive
We have hope because we know that this life is not all that there is. We will overcome death itself, just like Christ, and will experience a resurrection and a new body! Since Jesus is the "first fruits", other fruit is sure to flow-- namely us. Paul cries out in triumph. "Death is swallowed up in victory!"
1 Peter 1:3-4 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade-kept in heaven for you
1 Thess 4:13-14 Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. 14 We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.
We don not have to grieve like the rest of men who have no hope. We have an afterlife with Christ and know that we will meet even those who departed this earth in the Lord. Every believer need not fear death, for we know where we are going because of what Jesus has done on the cross. He has destroyed the power of death for his people and will raise them to new life to be with him forever. "Behold I go ahead of you to prepare a place for you If it were not so I would have told you."
Therefore, we can live with boldness. To live is Christ, to die is gain. We don't have to fear the future because we know that God is faithful to keep what we have entrusted to Him.
We are living in a new era. The era between the comings of Christ. We know that Jesus is coming back the same way that he left the earth.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
The Resurrection is THE message!
Rom 10:9 That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
The doctrine of a Risen Christ is so essential to Christianity that a denial of it is a proof of a false faith. It is intimately tied in with salvation itself.
As we saw yesterday, not even justification was complete without the resurrection of Jesus. He is Risen!
Acts 1:21-22Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have been with us the whole time the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 beginning from John's baptism to the time when Jesus was taken up from us. For one of these must become a witness with us of his resurrection."
When the disciples were to choose a successor to Judas. They gave his job description . He was to give testimony of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Notice how the Resurrection of Jesus was shorthand for the gospel itself in this passage.
You see, so often we are guilty of preaching half a gospel. We talk about a Jesus who died on the cross for sins, so that we can be forgiven. That's amazing, but the story doesn't end there. Praise God, Jesus is not on the cross anymore. He is risen. He is not in the tomb. He is at the Right hand of the Father, and all things have been put under His feet. What an awesome Christ we have! the ohter half of the message is that we can have a new life in Him because he lives.
Jesus didn't just come to make it possible for you to be forgiven by dying on the cross. No, he cam to give you LIFE! He can do so because He lives! This is the neglected half of the gospel. Christianity is not just following the example of some dead prophet, it is walking with a risen KING! Glory to God!
THE RESURRECTION AND ASCENSION CHANGES BELIEVERS!
IT DEFEATED THE DEMONIC AND GAVE US AUTHORITY OVER THEM.
Eph 1:20-23 which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, 21 far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. 22 And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.
Now we are moving not into just Jesus' Resurrection, but His Ascension. The Bible says that Jesus has physically ascended to sit at the right hand of the Father. Every principality and power was put under His feet. That means that when Jesus was resurrected and ascended all the power of the enemy was put under him.
Back in the desert, the Devil was able to tempt Jesus three times. The devil can't mess with Jesus anymore. The power of death has been broken. Satan can't offer any kingdoms to Jesus now, because Jesus is Lord of all the universe now. It says that ALL things are under his feet!
Now watch it, here comes the really amazing part:
Eph 2:6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus,
Christ is seated. What does that mean? That means he is on a throne. It is finished. He has won the victory. By virtue of our faith, we are seated with Him--meaning that we have delegated authority over the enemy.
Jesus says, "I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you."
Not only that but Jesus is head of the church
Eph 1:22-23
22 And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.
So Jesus is Lord over all authorities of the world. They may not all be willing subjects but when it comes to the church, Jesus promises to be with us even to the end of the age. He says that where two or three come together, there he is in the midst. That means we have a living Christ who reigns over a living church. We don't just have a textbook , but we have a living Christ himself.
Buddha, Mohammed, and Moses are all in the grave. My Jesus lives! He lives! For the benefit of the church.
He is making intercession for them.
Heb 7:23-25 Now there have been many of those priests, since death prevented them from continuing in office; 24 but because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. 25 Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.
He gives gifts to equip it.
Eph 4:8
"When he ascended on high,
he led captives in his train
and gave gifts to men."
11 It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, 12 to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up
Jesus has not left us alone but is still giving gifts to bless his church. Isn't it awesome that we have a living Christ tht is currently baptizing people with the Holy spirit, making intercession for the church, and leading the church as King?
The doctrine of a Risen Christ is so essential to Christianity that a denial of it is a proof of a false faith. It is intimately tied in with salvation itself.
As we saw yesterday, not even justification was complete without the resurrection of Jesus. He is Risen!
Acts 1:21-22Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have been with us the whole time the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 beginning from John's baptism to the time when Jesus was taken up from us. For one of these must become a witness with us of his resurrection."
When the disciples were to choose a successor to Judas. They gave his job description . He was to give testimony of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Notice how the Resurrection of Jesus was shorthand for the gospel itself in this passage.
You see, so often we are guilty of preaching half a gospel. We talk about a Jesus who died on the cross for sins, so that we can be forgiven. That's amazing, but the story doesn't end there. Praise God, Jesus is not on the cross anymore. He is risen. He is not in the tomb. He is at the Right hand of the Father, and all things have been put under His feet. What an awesome Christ we have! the ohter half of the message is that we can have a new life in Him because he lives.
Jesus didn't just come to make it possible for you to be forgiven by dying on the cross. No, he cam to give you LIFE! He can do so because He lives! This is the neglected half of the gospel. Christianity is not just following the example of some dead prophet, it is walking with a risen KING! Glory to God!
THE RESURRECTION AND ASCENSION CHANGES BELIEVERS!
IT DEFEATED THE DEMONIC AND GAVE US AUTHORITY OVER THEM.
Eph 1:20-23 which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, 21 far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. 22 And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.
Now we are moving not into just Jesus' Resurrection, but His Ascension. The Bible says that Jesus has physically ascended to sit at the right hand of the Father. Every principality and power was put under His feet. That means that when Jesus was resurrected and ascended all the power of the enemy was put under him.
Back in the desert, the Devil was able to tempt Jesus three times. The devil can't mess with Jesus anymore. The power of death has been broken. Satan can't offer any kingdoms to Jesus now, because Jesus is Lord of all the universe now. It says that ALL things are under his feet!
Now watch it, here comes the really amazing part:
Eph 2:6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus,
Christ is seated. What does that mean? That means he is on a throne. It is finished. He has won the victory. By virtue of our faith, we are seated with Him--meaning that we have delegated authority over the enemy.
Jesus says, "I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you."
Not only that but Jesus is head of the church
Eph 1:22-23
22 And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.
So Jesus is Lord over all authorities of the world. They may not all be willing subjects but when it comes to the church, Jesus promises to be with us even to the end of the age. He says that where two or three come together, there he is in the midst. That means we have a living Christ who reigns over a living church. We don't just have a textbook , but we have a living Christ himself.
Buddha, Mohammed, and Moses are all in the grave. My Jesus lives! He lives! For the benefit of the church.
He is making intercession for them.
Heb 7:23-25 Now there have been many of those priests, since death prevented them from continuing in office; 24 but because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. 25 Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.
He gives gifts to equip it.
Eph 4:8
"When he ascended on high,
he led captives in his train
and gave gifts to men."
11 It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, 12 to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up
Jesus has not left us alone but is still giving gifts to bless his church. Isn't it awesome that we have a living Christ tht is currently baptizing people with the Holy spirit, making intercession for the church, and leading the church as King?
Monday, April 09, 2007
The Resurrection is the Cornerstone of the Faith
The Resurrection of Jesus Christ is a historical fact. If you remove this fact from Christianity you no longer have Christianity. You have a dead religion. But I am here to tell you today that we have a risen savior. He is risen! I don't want to spend my time dealing with those who are skeptics today about the resurrection. I want to dwell on the truth of the resurrected Christ that you might be encouraged and take heart.
First of all there are three aspects to the exaltation of Jesus Christ. First is his coming back from the dead which we mark today. But then there is his ascension, which means his rising to be with the Father, and also what is called in theological terms, his "session", which is his current ministry at the right hand of the Father.
I want to touch on each of these aspects this week and their significance. First of all ....
I. THE RESURRECTION IS A CORNERSTONE OF THE CHRISTIAN FAITH AND MESSAGE
A. The Resurrection was the ultimate Declaration that Jesus was the Son of God!
Rom 1:3-4 regarding his Son, who as to his human nature was a descendant of David, 4 and who through the Spirit of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord.
Jesus was always the Son of God. But to those who doubted, this was the ultimate affirmation of his deity. The resurrection of Jesus Christ was the final evidence that Jesus Christ indeed was the Son of God. Moreover, it is not an ordinary Resurrection because if there were any doubt about his being the Son of God before, it was dispelled. Even Doubting Thomas when he saw the Resurrected Christ could only say My Lord and My God!
The amazing thing about Jesus resurrection is that Jesus raised himself--proving His divine power.
John 2:19 Jesus answered them, "Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days."
B. The Resurrection was the Consummation of our Salvation.
1 Cor 15:14 And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.
17 And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.
Look how the Apostle Paul links our justification with the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. He states that if Christ was not raised, then we are still in our sins. In other words, without Jesus triumphing over sin, death, hell and the grave, our faith would be useless.
Even though Jesus died on the cross for our sins, if he had stayed locked up in the grave, there would have been no life and no salvation.
Rom 4:24-25 but also for us, to whom God will credit righteousness-for us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. 25 He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.
The Resurrection completed out salvation, because sin was not the only problem. Jesus had to conquer death itself.
2 Tim 1:10 but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.
By rising from the dead, Jesus won the victory over both sin and death. Through his death and resurrection, He broke the power of sin and death that the devil used against us. Blessings!
First of all there are three aspects to the exaltation of Jesus Christ. First is his coming back from the dead which we mark today. But then there is his ascension, which means his rising to be with the Father, and also what is called in theological terms, his "session", which is his current ministry at the right hand of the Father.
I want to touch on each of these aspects this week and their significance. First of all ....
I. THE RESURRECTION IS A CORNERSTONE OF THE CHRISTIAN FAITH AND MESSAGE
A. The Resurrection was the ultimate Declaration that Jesus was the Son of God!
Rom 1:3-4 regarding his Son, who as to his human nature was a descendant of David, 4 and who through the Spirit of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord.
Jesus was always the Son of God. But to those who doubted, this was the ultimate affirmation of his deity. The resurrection of Jesus Christ was the final evidence that Jesus Christ indeed was the Son of God. Moreover, it is not an ordinary Resurrection because if there were any doubt about his being the Son of God before, it was dispelled. Even Doubting Thomas when he saw the Resurrected Christ could only say My Lord and My God!
The amazing thing about Jesus resurrection is that Jesus raised himself--proving His divine power.
John 2:19 Jesus answered them, "Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days."
B. The Resurrection was the Consummation of our Salvation.
1 Cor 15:14 And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.
17 And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.
Look how the Apostle Paul links our justification with the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. He states that if Christ was not raised, then we are still in our sins. In other words, without Jesus triumphing over sin, death, hell and the grave, our faith would be useless.
Even though Jesus died on the cross for our sins, if he had stayed locked up in the grave, there would have been no life and no salvation.
Rom 4:24-25 but also for us, to whom God will credit righteousness-for us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. 25 He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.
The Resurrection completed out salvation, because sin was not the only problem. Jesus had to conquer death itself.
2 Tim 1:10 but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.
By rising from the dead, Jesus won the victory over both sin and death. Through his death and resurrection, He broke the power of sin and death that the devil used against us. Blessings!
Thursday, April 05, 2007
The Rejection of Jesus
We've been looking at the story of Jesus's entry into Jerusalem. Remember the parable Jesus told before he got on that donkey?
Luke 19:26-27"He replied, 'I tell you that to everyone who has, more will be given, but as for the one who has nothing, even what he has will be taken away. 27 But those enemies of mine who did not want me to be king over them-bring them here and kill them in front of me.'"
Here is a solemn end to the parable given just before Jesus entry to Jerusalem. Jesus says that if you act on the small amount of light you have, you will be given more. But if you reject the light you have, even what you think you know will be taken from you. Jesus predicted that rather than be embraced by the people that should embrace him. He wall be rejected by the same.
Here Jesus states that those who reject them are worthy of punishment. Now you wouldn't punish a blind man for walking into a wall would you? No! Jesus sees the rejection of Messiah as a blameworthy thing--a chosen thing--a will full rejection.
The Consequences of Rejection of the Son
Jesus weeps over the fate of Jerusalem.
Luke 19:41-44 As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it 42 and said, "If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace-but now it is hidden from your eyes. 43 The days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment against you and encircle you and hem you in on every side. 44 They will dash you to the ground, you and the children within your walls. They will not leave one stone on another, because you did not recognize the time of God's coming to you."
It was so ironic. Jerusalem means to "see peace", but yet Israel would not acknowledge the prince of peace. They would not acknowledge him who could bring peace with God. And because of this, Jesus foresees the destruction of Jerusalem. Which in fact did happen in 70 AD.
The judgment of God makes Jesus weep. A parallel passage sheds more light.
Luke 13:34-35"O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing!
NIV
Does the fate of those who reject Jesus make you weep? Is there an urgency in your heart , knowing that now is the time of salvation. Night is coming when no man can work ?
Luke 19:26-27"He replied, 'I tell you that to everyone who has, more will be given, but as for the one who has nothing, even what he has will be taken away. 27 But those enemies of mine who did not want me to be king over them-bring them here and kill them in front of me.'"
Here is a solemn end to the parable given just before Jesus entry to Jerusalem. Jesus says that if you act on the small amount of light you have, you will be given more. But if you reject the light you have, even what you think you know will be taken from you. Jesus predicted that rather than be embraced by the people that should embrace him. He wall be rejected by the same.
Here Jesus states that those who reject them are worthy of punishment. Now you wouldn't punish a blind man for walking into a wall would you? No! Jesus sees the rejection of Messiah as a blameworthy thing--a chosen thing--a will full rejection.
The Consequences of Rejection of the Son
Jesus weeps over the fate of Jerusalem.
Luke 19:41-44 As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it 42 and said, "If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace-but now it is hidden from your eyes. 43 The days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment against you and encircle you and hem you in on every side. 44 They will dash you to the ground, you and the children within your walls. They will not leave one stone on another, because you did not recognize the time of God's coming to you."
It was so ironic. Jerusalem means to "see peace", but yet Israel would not acknowledge the prince of peace. They would not acknowledge him who could bring peace with God. And because of this, Jesus foresees the destruction of Jerusalem. Which in fact did happen in 70 AD.
The judgment of God makes Jesus weep. A parallel passage sheds more light.
Luke 13:34-35"O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing!
NIV
Does the fate of those who reject Jesus make you weep? Is there an urgency in your heart , knowing that now is the time of salvation. Night is coming when no man can work ?
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
Palm Sunday Rejection
We are continuing our look at what happened on Palm Sunday. Yesterday we saw that Israel wanted and expected a political savior but did not recognize the Savior from sin. It is so sad that Israel failed to recognize who Jesus was. The scripture says they did not recognize the "time" of their visitation.. That means that there was a time period for them to recognize.
You see there are two words for time in the Greek. "Chronos" is chronological time, but "kairos" is the opportune time--the appropriate time--the due time of God. And this was the kairos moment; it was the moment of the release of His Son to the earth. Yet Israel failed to recognize it! What were the signs of the times?
A. Israel rejected precedent!
Luke 19:28-36 After Jesus had said this, he went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. 29 As he approached Bethphage and Bethany at the hill called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples, saying to them, 30 "Go to the village ahead of you, and as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. 31 If anyone asks you, 'Why are you untying it?' tell him, 'The Lord needs it.'"
32 Those who were sent ahead went and found it just as he had told them. 33 As they were untying the colt, its owners asked them, "Why are you untying the colt?"
34 They replied, "The Lord needs it."
35 They brought it to Jesus, threw their cloaks on the colt and put Jesus on it. 36 As he went along, people spread their cloaks on the road. NIV
Jesus came into Jerusalem riding a donkey. This was the same way that Solomon had been proclaimed King. Now here was an audacious move. The religious authorities already wanted to arrest Jesus but rather than hide, he makes this dramatic appearance to Jerusalem.
Notice two things: Jesus disciples put him on the donkey. They chose to make Jesus Lord and they chose to worship him as Lord. How many people claim to be Christians but refuse to serve him as Lord of their lives. They hailed him as king.
B. Israel rejected prophecy
Matt 21:4-5
4 This took place to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet:
5 "Say to the Daughter of Zion,
'See, your king comes to you,
gentle and riding on a donkey,
on a colt, the foal of a donkey.'"
NIV
This is a reference to the book of Zechariah which predicted this act of the Messiah. Again Israel should have seen it but would not. Jesus was constantly fulfilling prophecies, yet Israel refused to acknowledge it. Just like today, Jesus fulfillled over 300 specific prophecies, demonstrably written hundreds of years before hs birth, yet people still think of him as a "nice guy", maybe a little "deluded". But many don't worship him as the Son of God. They don't bow the knee to His Lordship. They are willfully deceived.
C. Israel rejected the signs and wonders
Luke 19:37 When he came near the place where the road goes down the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen:
The disciples recognized the miracles that Jesus did and that they were a sign of his being the Messiah over Israel. Israel in general refused to acknowledge the authenticating miracles of Jesus. So many miracles have ben performed in the name of Jesus, even up until this day and yet Israel and many today refuse ot acknowledge the Lordship of Jesus. Jesus is King, but like the subjects in the parable we looke at yesterday, many don't want him to be King over them.
D . Israel rejected to Praise Him
Luke 19:39-40 Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, "Teacher, rebuke your disciples!" 40 "I tell you," he replied, "if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out."
Here the disciples were so excited about what they were seeing. They began to shout praise to Jesus. But the Pharisees, and the wouldn't sees and the couldn't sees refused to worship . In fact, they tried to shut up the disciples. But Jesus refused to silence their praise but accepted it. Even we as Christians can become religious and leave our religion as a formal thing but something that doesn't come close to our hearts. We don't want to make a big fuss about Jesus. That's just not civilized. but your response to people exuberantly loving Jesus reveals your heart.
All these things: the prophecy ,the miracles, the precedent, the praise, all indicated that Jesus was much more than a prophet. Yet Israel missed these factors and then missed their time. This was the Kairos moment.
Similarly right now we are in a Kairos moment. We are in a time when there is still time to accept Jesus as Messiah. But will we miss the signs.?
Israel missed their time. We can miss ours.
All the mistakes that Israel made can be made today. People can deny that Jesus was the fulfillment of scriptures, deny that he fulfilled over 300 prophecies. Deny that he is not just another prophet but worthy to be worshiped as Lord. Even professing Christians can refuse to serve him as lord although they recognize his identity.
Have you not only recognized who Jesus is . But have you willfully put him on the proverbial donkey and hailed him as king of your life? Has the reality of His Lordship affected your heart for Him as well?
You see there are two words for time in the Greek. "Chronos" is chronological time, but "kairos" is the opportune time--the appropriate time--the due time of God. And this was the kairos moment; it was the moment of the release of His Son to the earth. Yet Israel failed to recognize it! What were the signs of the times?
A. Israel rejected precedent!
Luke 19:28-36 After Jesus had said this, he went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. 29 As he approached Bethphage and Bethany at the hill called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples, saying to them, 30 "Go to the village ahead of you, and as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. 31 If anyone asks you, 'Why are you untying it?' tell him, 'The Lord needs it.'"
32 Those who were sent ahead went and found it just as he had told them. 33 As they were untying the colt, its owners asked them, "Why are you untying the colt?"
34 They replied, "The Lord needs it."
35 They brought it to Jesus, threw their cloaks on the colt and put Jesus on it. 36 As he went along, people spread their cloaks on the road. NIV
Jesus came into Jerusalem riding a donkey. This was the same way that Solomon had been proclaimed King. Now here was an audacious move. The religious authorities already wanted to arrest Jesus but rather than hide, he makes this dramatic appearance to Jerusalem.
Notice two things: Jesus disciples put him on the donkey. They chose to make Jesus Lord and they chose to worship him as Lord. How many people claim to be Christians but refuse to serve him as Lord of their lives. They hailed him as king.
B. Israel rejected prophecy
Matt 21:4-5
4 This took place to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet:
5 "Say to the Daughter of Zion,
'See, your king comes to you,
gentle and riding on a donkey,
on a colt, the foal of a donkey.'"
NIV
This is a reference to the book of Zechariah which predicted this act of the Messiah. Again Israel should have seen it but would not. Jesus was constantly fulfilling prophecies, yet Israel refused to acknowledge it. Just like today, Jesus fulfillled over 300 specific prophecies, demonstrably written hundreds of years before hs birth, yet people still think of him as a "nice guy", maybe a little "deluded". But many don't worship him as the Son of God. They don't bow the knee to His Lordship. They are willfully deceived.
C. Israel rejected the signs and wonders
Luke 19:37 When he came near the place where the road goes down the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen:
The disciples recognized the miracles that Jesus did and that they were a sign of his being the Messiah over Israel. Israel in general refused to acknowledge the authenticating miracles of Jesus. So many miracles have ben performed in the name of Jesus, even up until this day and yet Israel and many today refuse ot acknowledge the Lordship of Jesus. Jesus is King, but like the subjects in the parable we looke at yesterday, many don't want him to be King over them.
D . Israel rejected to Praise Him
Luke 19:39-40 Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, "Teacher, rebuke your disciples!" 40 "I tell you," he replied, "if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out."
Here the disciples were so excited about what they were seeing. They began to shout praise to Jesus. But the Pharisees, and the wouldn't sees and the couldn't sees refused to worship . In fact, they tried to shut up the disciples. But Jesus refused to silence their praise but accepted it. Even we as Christians can become religious and leave our religion as a formal thing but something that doesn't come close to our hearts. We don't want to make a big fuss about Jesus. That's just not civilized. but your response to people exuberantly loving Jesus reveals your heart.
All these things: the prophecy ,the miracles, the precedent, the praise, all indicated that Jesus was much more than a prophet. Yet Israel missed these factors and then missed their time. This was the Kairos moment.
Similarly right now we are in a Kairos moment. We are in a time when there is still time to accept Jesus as Messiah. But will we miss the signs.?
Israel missed their time. We can miss ours.
All the mistakes that Israel made can be made today. People can deny that Jesus was the fulfillment of scriptures, deny that he fulfilled over 300 prophecies. Deny that he is not just another prophet but worthy to be worshiped as Lord. Even professing Christians can refuse to serve him as lord although they recognize his identity.
Have you not only recognized who Jesus is . But have you willfully put him on the proverbial donkey and hailed him as king of your life? Has the reality of His Lordship affected your heart for Him as well?
Monday, April 02, 2007
The Time of Visitation
Palm Sunday: The day we celebrate the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem where he would be sentenced to death a few days later.
I'd like to look at the time just before His triumphal entry:
Luke 19:11-14, While they were listening to this, he went on to tell them a parable, because he was near Jerusalem and the people thought that the kingdom of God was going to appear at once. 12 He said: "A man of noble birth went to a distant country to have himself appointed king and then to return. 13 So he called ten of his servants and gave them ten minas. 'Put this money to work,' he said, 'until I come back.' 14 "But his subjects hated him and sent a delegation after him to say, 'We don't want this man to be our king.' 15 "He was made king, however, and returned home. Then he sent for the servants to whom he had given the money, in order to find out what they had gained with it. 16 "The first one came and said, 'Sir, your mina has earned ten more.' 17 "'Well done, my good servant!' his master replied. 'Because you have been trustworthy in a very small matter, take charge of ten cities.' 18 "The second came and said, 'Sir, your mina has earned five more.' 19 "His master answered, 'You take charge of five cities.' 20 "Then another servant came and said, 'Sir, here is your mina; I have kept it laid away in a piece of cloth. 21 I was afraid of you, because you are a hard man. You take out what you did not put in and reap what you did not sow.' 22 "His master replied, 'I will judge you by your own words, you wicked servant! You knew, did you, that I am a hard man, taking out what I did not put in, and reaping what I did not sow? 23 Why then didn't you put my money on deposit, so that when I came back, I could have collected it with interest?' 24 "Then he said to those standing by, 'Take his mina away from him and give it to the one who has ten minas.' 25 "'Sir,' they said, 'he already has ten!' 26 "He replied, 'I tell you that to everyone who has, more will be given, but as for the one who has nothing, even what he has will be taken away. 27 But those enemies of mine who did not want me to be king over them-bring them here and kill them in front of me.'" NIV
Luke 19 is the setting for the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. He had been on his pilgrimage towards this place even though he knew rejection was in store for him.
Just before he gets to Jerusalem , he was in a little place called Jericho, and we have this incredible scripture which tells us the reason that Jesus was going to tell a parable. That is rare. Sometimes Jesus tells a parable and explains it afterwards, but it is rare that the writers of the scripture tells us the "why" of a parable before it is given.
The Bible tells us that he gives the parable for two reasons. 1) He was near Jerusalem which would be the place of his triumphal entry, and 2) the people thought that the kingdom was going to appear immediately.
Therefore we know that an express purpose of His telling this parable was to deflate their notions in some way that the kingdom was going to be manifested immediately.
I'd like to look at the time just before His triumphal entry:
Luke 19:11-14, While they were listening to this, he went on to tell them a parable, because he was near Jerusalem and the people thought that the kingdom of God was going to appear at once. 12 He said: "A man of noble birth went to a distant country to have himself appointed king and then to return. 13 So he called ten of his servants and gave them ten minas. 'Put this money to work,' he said, 'until I come back.' 14 "But his subjects hated him and sent a delegation after him to say, 'We don't want this man to be our king.' 15 "He was made king, however, and returned home. Then he sent for the servants to whom he had given the money, in order to find out what they had gained with it. 16 "The first one came and said, 'Sir, your mina has earned ten more.' 17 "'Well done, my good servant!' his master replied. 'Because you have been trustworthy in a very small matter, take charge of ten cities.' 18 "The second came and said, 'Sir, your mina has earned five more.' 19 "His master answered, 'You take charge of five cities.' 20 "Then another servant came and said, 'Sir, here is your mina; I have kept it laid away in a piece of cloth. 21 I was afraid of you, because you are a hard man. You take out what you did not put in and reap what you did not sow.' 22 "His master replied, 'I will judge you by your own words, you wicked servant! You knew, did you, that I am a hard man, taking out what I did not put in, and reaping what I did not sow? 23 Why then didn't you put my money on deposit, so that when I came back, I could have collected it with interest?' 24 "Then he said to those standing by, 'Take his mina away from him and give it to the one who has ten minas.' 25 "'Sir,' they said, 'he already has ten!' 26 "He replied, 'I tell you that to everyone who has, more will be given, but as for the one who has nothing, even what he has will be taken away. 27 But those enemies of mine who did not want me to be king over them-bring them here and kill them in front of me.'" NIV
Luke 19 is the setting for the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. He had been on his pilgrimage towards this place even though he knew rejection was in store for him.
Just before he gets to Jerusalem , he was in a little place called Jericho, and we have this incredible scripture which tells us the reason that Jesus was going to tell a parable. That is rare. Sometimes Jesus tells a parable and explains it afterwards, but it is rare that the writers of the scripture tells us the "why" of a parable before it is given.
The Bible tells us that he gives the parable for two reasons. 1) He was near Jerusalem which would be the place of his triumphal entry, and 2) the people thought that the kingdom was going to appear immediately.
Therefore we know that an express purpose of His telling this parable was to deflate their notions in some way that the kingdom was going to be manifested immediately.
Here Jesus tells the people a story that is in reality about himself. Jesus of course is the "king" and he goes to a "distant country" that He would be appointed king over them. In that day, that is how kingdoms were given in the Roman empire: The potential king would travel to Rome to receive the kingdom that was to be bestowed on him. In fact, at around that time, a king went to Rome to obtain from Caesar Augustus a confirmation of his title to reign over that part of Judea. The Jews, knowing the potential king's character sent an embassy of 50 men to Rome, to prevail on Augustus "not" to confer the title on him, but they could not succeed. He "received" the kingdom, and reigned in Judea. So Jesus' hearer's would understand exactly what He meant.
Now, this parable deals with two groups of people and their reaction to the nobleman.
1) Those who were supposed to be the citizens of his kingdom and 2.) Those that were the servants of the nobleman.
Let's concentrate on the potential citizens for a second and not on the servants. Those that were supposed to be his citizens sent a delegation saying that they did not want Him as King. This in fact was the picture of Israel. Jesus was about to ride into Jerusalem. His "servants" would praise Him as king, but Israel refused to acknowledge Him as such. Why?
One of the reasons is that Israel was looking for a conquering king. You see, they were expecting a triumphant king riding in on a horse to save Israel from Rome. Jesus was going to be rejected! Even His disciples didn't want to hear that. They didn't get it. They just wanted Jesus to defeat Rome and establish his kingdom immediately. No one really understood the idea of a suffering servant.
What becomes of the rejectors? Jesus parable is clear.
Luke 19:27 But those enemies of mine who did not want me to be king over them-bring them here and kill them in front of me.'"
By the behavior of the citizens in the parable, and their punishment, we are taught that Israel, would reject Jesus, and try to prevent His reigning over them in his spiritual kingdom, and would for that crime be severely punished.
Israel wanted a savior from their problems, they did not want a savior from their sin. Are we the same way?
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