Have you been thinking about making some New Year's resolutions?
Be encouraged 2010 may very well be a year when God will make momentous things happen in your life. Making resolutions can be a very helpful way to train ourselves to acknowledge the effects of God working in our lives. The book of Psalms affirms, "Commit your way to the Lord; Trust also in Him, and He will do it" (37:5). I am a firm believer that no matter what we do we can not move outside of God's plan for us. Our lives essentially consist of the exercise of our wills to think, act or speak and our wills are shaped by deep spiritual desires that are birthed in The Creator God. Therefore a resolution is simply the bringing together of our desire with our will and making a plan. If you are successful, the plan aligns with God's plan. If you are not, the plan deviates from His plan. Using that logic there is value in measuring the quality of our plans against what we know is right, their likelihood of success and our past experiences.
Are any of the things that you are planning to do have, what I will call, 'cumulative success'? Meaning, whatever degree to which you accomplish your goals you can add to that accomplishment next year and the year after and so on (ie. exercise, diet etc.). Because if that's the case you may have already made progress on these last year without declaring them a formal New Year's resolution.
So, here are some suggestions to improve the likelihood of seeing a New Year's resolution come to pass. Consider asking yourself these questions as you contemplate what you would like to change, begin or cease.
1) What good things have you been doing this past year which could get even better?
2) Has anything changed during this year that may have contributed to the increase of these good things? (ie. an encounter with God, friendships, books, teachers, church, media influences)
3) Are any of these good activities producing in you transferable habits or skills that could help you achieve other goals? (ie. you have been budgeting your spending money and that could be used to organize your groceries for the week ahead to have healthier food.)
One further thought to consider is this. Jonathan Edwards, a man often called the greatest mind America ever produced lived his life by a list of resolutions. Allow me to share with you one of my favourites of those. "52. I frequently hear persons in old age, say how they would live if they were to live their lives over again: Resolved, that I will live just so as I can think I shall wish I had done, supposing I live to old age." Hopefully you are feeling good about this year ahead, but whatever you are planning it is valuable to make optimistic goals for yourself; pray, write them down and tell people in your life about them. You never know, you might be successful with some of them.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Particular Redemption and Human Understanding
Recently, I contributed in a discussion on the theologian Jean Calvin, and the teachings that bear his name. Experience has shown that a lot of people are confused by some of these teachings, especially the doctrine of Limited Atonement. It seems that there is a determined effort to produce bad press against this way of thinking by those who don't agree with it. My feeling is that this negativity is not very accurate or biblical. I have provided my position on this subject in order to garner respect for the enlightening of the Holy Spirit that occurred in the 1500's.
There is a philosophical approach to making an argument for the doctrines of grace, including Limited Atonement; or as others have described it, the Biblical understanding of Particular Redemption. But, it seems more prudent to consider the weight of Scripture and that alone. Firstly, God has throughout human history shown to maintain a position of absolute authority over the lives of His people. In Numbers 24:23 the Lord speaks through the prophet and says "Alas, who can live except God has ordained it?" And this truth coincides exactly with John 1:13 that speaks of new life in Christ.
If this doctrine had been left to OT interpretation it would not have the same significance as it does. But because the most authoritative teacher of men has pressed this upon our understanding in two lengthy passages recorded in John chapter 6 and 10 we must give it serious consideration. In John 6 Jesus makes two statements "All that the father gives Me will come to Me" (v37) and "of all that He has given Me I lose nothing, but raise it up on the last day" (v39). Who are those that come? What has been given to Christ that He will raise up? Surely this is referring to the chosen people of God. Then later in this book Jesus teaches in one of His most moving and intimate lessons: "the sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name" (John 10:3) "I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep" (v11) "I know my own and My own know Me" (v14). It seems apparent that in these scriptures Jesus is connecting the idea of a particular people group, the elect, and his atonement for those He foreknew.
Now some might say; how can this be true and the statement of John 3:16 also be true that "whosoever believes..."? My response would be that we have there encountered the edge of human understanding. As it says in the prophet "With whom did He consult and who gave Him understanding?" (Isaiah 40:14). This is the place where faith takes position over reason and we simply believe it to be true because God said it. And He is faithful to meet us there and minister to our unbelief (Mark 9:24).
There is a philosophical approach to making an argument for the doctrines of grace, including Limited Atonement; or as others have described it, the Biblical understanding of Particular Redemption. But, it seems more prudent to consider the weight of Scripture and that alone. Firstly, God has throughout human history shown to maintain a position of absolute authority over the lives of His people. In Numbers 24:23 the Lord speaks through the prophet and says "Alas, who can live except God has ordained it?" And this truth coincides exactly with John 1:13 that speaks of new life in Christ.
If this doctrine had been left to OT interpretation it would not have the same significance as it does. But because the most authoritative teacher of men has pressed this upon our understanding in two lengthy passages recorded in John chapter 6 and 10 we must give it serious consideration. In John 6 Jesus makes two statements "All that the father gives Me will come to Me" (v37) and "of all that He has given Me I lose nothing, but raise it up on the last day" (v39). Who are those that come? What has been given to Christ that He will raise up? Surely this is referring to the chosen people of God. Then later in this book Jesus teaches in one of His most moving and intimate lessons: "the sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name" (John 10:3) "I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep" (v11) "I know my own and My own know Me" (v14). It seems apparent that in these scriptures Jesus is connecting the idea of a particular people group, the elect, and his atonement for those He foreknew.
Now some might say; how can this be true and the statement of John 3:16 also be true that "whosoever believes..."? My response would be that we have there encountered the edge of human understanding. As it says in the prophet "With whom did He consult and who gave Him understanding?" (Isaiah 40:14). This is the place where faith takes position over reason and we simply believe it to be true because God said it. And He is faithful to meet us there and minister to our unbelief (Mark 9:24).
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Season of Celebration
There seems to be a lot of celebrations this time of year. Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's and even some non-holiday related ones like the World Series, the Grey Cup and the Super Bowl. I also find that the general feeling of autumn makes me a little bit giddy. Maybe part of what got me thinking that there is a more significant aspect to all of this was something C.S. Lewis said in his book Surprised By Joy. In it he recognized that autumn produced a sense of joy in him; when I read it I thought, 'me too'. And by the end of the book Lewis referred to those things which produce joy as being 'pointers' or 'sign posts' to something greater. Well, I wanted to share a thought that can make this time of year better for us no matter how we feel about the holiday season.
What in general makes these celebrations so great? I think it comes down to three grand themes and most of our traditions fall into these. The first is the sense of community with family and friends gathered around us. The second is the sense of satisfaction by giving and receiving gifts, eating delicious meals and enjoying good drink. And the final theme is the sense of significance that comes from watching the winning team, recognizing a religious event or marking the passing of time. So why is it that not everyone thinks this is the most wonderful time of the year? What are some of the issues that face most of us in January? Why is it that if we are honest, even on Christmas morning there is something wrong?
It is fairly simple, there is something wrong. Community is broken, people are alone, we can't get along with everyone and some are sick or dying. All those wonderful gifts never seem to satisfy as they ought to, some folks can't afford to give the way they like and some people don't actually receive much of anything. We over-eat, over-drink, and over-spend and even if we don't we would always like to have another plate or another glass but with careful restraint we pass. Significance is missed by many of us; our team looses, we never kept one resolution from last year and the religious ceremonies seem nostalgic and irrelevant.
Thankfully that is not the end of my thought, I had promised an idea that would improve our outlook this year. There is one who walked through life with a different kind of perspective. One for whom weddings, sickness, loneliness, celebrations and ceremony all pointed to something greater. He is Jesus. During his life on earth Jesus fed people with an abundant supply, he provided the best wine when the party looked like it was in trouble, he healed the sick, freed the oppressed, and raised the dead. He comforted the sad and had compassion on the guilty and broken souls he met. He announced a new world order, won with a victory that would make the greatest sporting contest seem like nothing. He considered all the religious requirements and traditions and showed they had a meaning outside of themselves; they were to make us think of him. And in offering hope Jesus also offers access "I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved" (John 10:9). Consider that these times of celebration are just a season. One day this season will end, and another will begin that will never end. That season will be constant celebration for the person who now considers Jesus as the centre of community, the fullest satisfaction and the greatest significance.
What in general makes these celebrations so great? I think it comes down to three grand themes and most of our traditions fall into these. The first is the sense of community with family and friends gathered around us. The second is the sense of satisfaction by giving and receiving gifts, eating delicious meals and enjoying good drink. And the final theme is the sense of significance that comes from watching the winning team, recognizing a religious event or marking the passing of time. So why is it that not everyone thinks this is the most wonderful time of the year? What are some of the issues that face most of us in January? Why is it that if we are honest, even on Christmas morning there is something wrong?
It is fairly simple, there is something wrong. Community is broken, people are alone, we can't get along with everyone and some are sick or dying. All those wonderful gifts never seem to satisfy as they ought to, some folks can't afford to give the way they like and some people don't actually receive much of anything. We over-eat, over-drink, and over-spend and even if we don't we would always like to have another plate or another glass but with careful restraint we pass. Significance is missed by many of us; our team looses, we never kept one resolution from last year and the religious ceremonies seem nostalgic and irrelevant.
Thankfully that is not the end of my thought, I had promised an idea that would improve our outlook this year. There is one who walked through life with a different kind of perspective. One for whom weddings, sickness, loneliness, celebrations and ceremony all pointed to something greater. He is Jesus. During his life on earth Jesus fed people with an abundant supply, he provided the best wine when the party looked like it was in trouble, he healed the sick, freed the oppressed, and raised the dead. He comforted the sad and had compassion on the guilty and broken souls he met. He announced a new world order, won with a victory that would make the greatest sporting contest seem like nothing. He considered all the religious requirements and traditions and showed they had a meaning outside of themselves; they were to make us think of him. And in offering hope Jesus also offers access "I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved" (John 10:9). Consider that these times of celebration are just a season. One day this season will end, and another will begin that will never end. That season will be constant celebration for the person who now considers Jesus as the centre of community, the fullest satisfaction and the greatest significance.
Saturday, July 4, 2009
The Sun Is Shining
Let us take time to dwell on some ideas about Jesus. Just as the path of the righteous becomes brighter until the full day, this must surely represent the idea of becoming more like Jesus. But not only that, I have noticed of late, a number of scriptures that make a comparison between Jesus and the sun. One such very clear text is from Revelation 1:16 which records Jesus' face to be "like the sun shining in its full strength." So is it possible that the full day represents both becoming like and coming to be with Jesus? If so, what can we take from that understanding? Perhaps a careful consideration of the benefits of the sun will take us to a greater understanding of the pleasures of Jesus.
The sun is illuminating, making for a clear view of reality, and exposing any imperfection. Jesus also says of Himself that He will open eyes to allow people to turn from darkness to light (Acts 26:18). And in the gospel of John the Bible records that Jesus "enlightens every man" (John 1:9). Does not Jesus reveal things that are shrouded in darkness when he enters a person's life?
Sunshine is a source of life. We take from it important vitamins and plants need it to grow. I would suggest to you that we too need Jesus if life is what we want. The Bible tells us that Jesus also gives life and not just existing but living abundantly (John 10:10). Yet, surely this temporal life is not enough on its own. In Jesus is the hope of eternal life if we are joined to Him (Romans 6:8, 23).
What about an ice cube? The sun doesn't exactly produce the best results for the frostiest of natures. No it doesn't. The hard and life-suspending properties of ice are quickly dissolved under the heat of a noon-day sun and in like manner Jesus deals with those spiritual conditions which are frozen otherwise. In the book of the prophet Malachi, God tells of His Messiah (Jesus) and declares Him to be coming in a manner of heat that refines and purifies, like a blast furnace (Malachi 3:1-4). And in a letter to the early church Paul tells of a day when mankind will be tested by fire (1 Corinthians 3:13). So let us accept the closeness of Jesus which melts our icy cold hearts.
Why do so many Canadians escape the bitter cold winter to go south? I would suggest; the comfort provided by the sun. Well, time spent in deep relationship with Jesus is better than a Caribbean getaway, it will never end. The fourteenth chapter of the gospel of John records some of the most comforting words the Lord ever spoke. In verse one Jesus said, "Do not let your heart be troubled" and later He said, "My peace I give to you" (v27). What a welcome break from the harsh condition of this world. Jesus goes way beyond a holiday in providing for His own the peace that passes understanding (Philippians 4:7).
God is so good, His grace is so free and every day the sun rises in the east. We have such an opportunity in these days to remember Him. So, the next time you step out and the mid-day sun is overhead, take a minute to look up, close your eyes and smile. Feel the warmth of Jesus' love for you and soak it up.
The sun is illuminating, making for a clear view of reality, and exposing any imperfection. Jesus also says of Himself that He will open eyes to allow people to turn from darkness to light (Acts 26:18). And in the gospel of John the Bible records that Jesus "enlightens every man" (John 1:9). Does not Jesus reveal things that are shrouded in darkness when he enters a person's life?
Sunshine is a source of life. We take from it important vitamins and plants need it to grow. I would suggest to you that we too need Jesus if life is what we want. The Bible tells us that Jesus also gives life and not just existing but living abundantly (John 10:10). Yet, surely this temporal life is not enough on its own. In Jesus is the hope of eternal life if we are joined to Him (Romans 6:8, 23).
What about an ice cube? The sun doesn't exactly produce the best results for the frostiest of natures. No it doesn't. The hard and life-suspending properties of ice are quickly dissolved under the heat of a noon-day sun and in like manner Jesus deals with those spiritual conditions which are frozen otherwise. In the book of the prophet Malachi, God tells of His Messiah (Jesus) and declares Him to be coming in a manner of heat that refines and purifies, like a blast furnace (Malachi 3:1-4). And in a letter to the early church Paul tells of a day when mankind will be tested by fire (1 Corinthians 3:13). So let us accept the closeness of Jesus which melts our icy cold hearts.
Why do so many Canadians escape the bitter cold winter to go south? I would suggest; the comfort provided by the sun. Well, time spent in deep relationship with Jesus is better than a Caribbean getaway, it will never end. The fourteenth chapter of the gospel of John records some of the most comforting words the Lord ever spoke. In verse one Jesus said, "Do not let your heart be troubled" and later He said, "My peace I give to you" (v27). What a welcome break from the harsh condition of this world. Jesus goes way beyond a holiday in providing for His own the peace that passes understanding (Philippians 4:7).
God is so good, His grace is so free and every day the sun rises in the east. We have such an opportunity in these days to remember Him. So, the next time you step out and the mid-day sun is overhead, take a minute to look up, close your eyes and smile. Feel the warmth of Jesus' love for you and soak it up.
Monday, June 8, 2009
The Path of the Righteous leads to life
As I write the initial entry of my blog it seems suitable to explain the reason why Proverbs 4:18 is shown as the theme. This verse impacted me because in a beautiful and simple visual symbol it describes so much of the deepest struggles of my heart. My hope is that through writing down the insight I receive I will bring clarity to my own thoughts and offer something of value to my reader.
The first thing to consider is the question: Who is the righteous? To answer that most accurately we should turn to see what the scriptures tell us are the characteristics or marks of a righteous person. So as follows: The righteous man is a good man (Proverbs 2:20), her way is known by God (Psalm 1:6), he walks with God (Genesis 6:9), God is with her (Psalm 14:5), God blesses his dwelling (Proverbs 3:33), the desire of the righteous is only good (Proverbs 11:23) and I could surely go on. At first glance and then even with careful consideration this list is overwhelming. We should rightly ask: Who is like this, surely not I? The answer to this question is the story of the Bible. And Jesus is the centre of that story.
Simply put, no one is righteous and everyone deserves destruction for outright and universal rebellion. Although that may be an unpopular idea, if we referenced many of the verses that surround the above texts, we would see that the Bible describes the righteous and also describes the unrighteous in equal detail (Psalm 1:4-6). But God, in His infinite love, came to earth as the man Jesus Christ and took upon Himself, for all who put their trust in Him, the punishment they otherwise would have been served (1 Corinthians 5:21, Psalm 13:5). The Bible teaches that true belief in Jesus is accompanied by new spiritual life and a future hope of eternal life and happiness (Colossians 3:3,4).
It is this new life which is being compared to the light of dawn. This picture makes so much sense to me because when I first was given the new life, both to me and to those around me, nothing seemed different. But now, I see there were early signs of daylight. A hint of light crept in against the darkness of my life. The great reassurance which this passage gives is that just like the first light appearing when the sun begins to rise, there will be a gradual change in the person who trusts in Jesus.
Where does this dawning of new life take a person; you might ask? Well, that will be the subject of future posts as we explore the incredible brilliance of “the full day”. I hope you will join me.
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