There are puzzling instructions in the Bible. Are they just quaint quirks that the Lord threw in to keep us on our toes, or do they have a meaning? Here is one. Ezekiel 46: 9
But when the people of the land come before the Lord at the appointed feasts, he who enters by way of the north gate to worship shall go out by way of the south gate. And he who enters by way of the south gate shall go out by way of the north gate. No one shall return by way of the gate by which he entered but shall go straight out.
Did you catch the “quirk” there? The worshipers were instructed to leave by the opposite gate from which they entered. Why? One suggestion was to avoid congestion. If a lot of people were to enter through one gate and then try to leave by the same, it would be very crowded. A “flow-through” traffic plan would expedite access to the temple.
A second suggestion was to make the worshipers go “further” to get home as they would have to walk around the city, thus having more time to meditate. And get hungrier, and later, unless they left early to compensate for the extra “travel time.”
Ooookaaayyy. Not bad ideas, but is traffic control the best reason for taking space in the Scripture? Does the Holy Spirit get paid by the word? Sorry, not too reverent there. But maybe there is a little deeper meaning.
It drives me crazy when a preacher prays or says, “We will go away differently than when we came.” They usually mean that we will leave as a changed (or transformed–last post) person. I like that. Leaving differently is an adverb, modifying HOW we came and left. Different is an adjective describing our condition. Maybe the Holy Spirit wanted us to be aware of the change that should accompany us as we leave His presence. So pick a different door.
Just a thought. If we do enter and exit different doors, we might be more concerned to be different when we do leave.
Choose your door. Leave different and differently if necessary.
Thursday, September 29, 2016
Wednesday, September 28, 2016
Conformed or Transformed
Peter and Paul had a focus on the relationship between being conformed and transformed. They both mentioned that comparison. Take a look.
1 Peter 2:14-16 14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the desires of your former ignorance. 15 But as the One who called you is holy, you also are to be holy in all your conduct; 16 for it is written, Be holy, because I am holy.
Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.
Paul starts his comparison in Romans 12:1 where he “beseeches” the brethren to be living sacrifices. Peter uses the term “obedient children.” Both imply a willing, compliant participant in their situation. Peter invokes the family picture while Paul is more focused on a discipleship scenario. Both involve commitment of will and release of control to another authority. I would covet the designation for myself as a disciple or part of the “obedient children.”
After the classification or qualification phrase, Peter and Paul continue with the proscription. “Do not be conformed.” Conformed is translated by another as “being squeezed into a mold.” (Phillips) We can visualize that. A popular children’s toy in the past was play doh and some forms or molds. The kids would press the shapeless mass into the template and then express the final product out onto the table. The play doh was now the shape of its mold.
There are a lot of forces, or molds, if you please, that attempt to shape our lives and reality to fit their objectives. “Do not be conformed.” Notice that Peter designates the “shapers” as our ignorant desires. The operative, and blessed word here, is former. We have been released. How? By transformation.
Paul continues with an alternative tactic, the prescription. “Be transformed....” You control the result. His method is by “renewing your mind.” Too often we feel “trapped” in our circumstances.
Andy Stanley has a study that talks about this. He used an example of a greedy person. When asked to give, the greedy person responds, “I cannot give. I am greedy.” He will probably use a more polite “cover phrase” but it essentially means this.
And what is the solution for greed? Giving. We often break the power of our vices by doing the opposite. That takes an act of the will. We have to know what to do and determine to do it. We have to renew our mind. We must stop saying, “I am (you fill in the blank),” and use that as an excuse.
Personal example. I am out of shape. I need to exercise. But when I start, I inform myself that the stepper or Nordictrack makes me tired. Well, duh. I am out of shape. How do I get into shape i.e, not get tired so easily? Walk on the Nordictrack. I have to change my thinking to overcome the “rut” that I am in. And again, this transformation is based on a renewed mind. I decide to do it.
Paul says to renew your mind with the intent of being transformed. Peter implies that by banishing “ignorance.” And how does Peter combat ignorance? He appeals to the “One who has called you.” He is holy. Instead of being ignorantly forced into a destructive form, we choose to act with holiness. I decide to be holy.
This is not a self-help plan to escape bad habits, etc. It is a structured response to temptation. “I have to sin, because I am a sinner.” This is the common response to an alluring temptation. But a renewed mind can respond, “I am called by the Holy One, to be holy. I have a choice. I choose to be holy.”
We are not the victim of circumstance, trapped in an untenable situation. We can choose to “get into shape.” I am starting with five minutes a day on the machines. It will go up as I get “less tired.” Every habit begins with a deliberate decision to change.
And in our spiritual lives, we have the identical option. If we let the world shape our responses to life, it will be an unholy mess. We can choose the “shape” of our lives by following Peter and Paul. Do not be conformed, be transformed.
Are you conformed or transformed?
1 Peter 2:14-16 14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the desires of your former ignorance. 15 But as the One who called you is holy, you also are to be holy in all your conduct; 16 for it is written, Be holy, because I am holy.
Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.
Paul starts his comparison in Romans 12:1 where he “beseeches” the brethren to be living sacrifices. Peter uses the term “obedient children.” Both imply a willing, compliant participant in their situation. Peter invokes the family picture while Paul is more focused on a discipleship scenario. Both involve commitment of will and release of control to another authority. I would covet the designation for myself as a disciple or part of the “obedient children.”
After the classification or qualification phrase, Peter and Paul continue with the proscription. “Do not be conformed.” Conformed is translated by another as “being squeezed into a mold.” (Phillips) We can visualize that. A popular children’s toy in the past was play doh and some forms or molds. The kids would press the shapeless mass into the template and then express the final product out onto the table. The play doh was now the shape of its mold.
There are a lot of forces, or molds, if you please, that attempt to shape our lives and reality to fit their objectives. “Do not be conformed.” Notice that Peter designates the “shapers” as our ignorant desires. The operative, and blessed word here, is former. We have been released. How? By transformation.
Paul continues with an alternative tactic, the prescription. “Be transformed....” You control the result. His method is by “renewing your mind.” Too often we feel “trapped” in our circumstances.
Andy Stanley has a study that talks about this. He used an example of a greedy person. When asked to give, the greedy person responds, “I cannot give. I am greedy.” He will probably use a more polite “cover phrase” but it essentially means this.
And what is the solution for greed? Giving. We often break the power of our vices by doing the opposite. That takes an act of the will. We have to know what to do and determine to do it. We have to renew our mind. We must stop saying, “I am (you fill in the blank),” and use that as an excuse.
Personal example. I am out of shape. I need to exercise. But when I start, I inform myself that the stepper or Nordictrack makes me tired. Well, duh. I am out of shape. How do I get into shape i.e, not get tired so easily? Walk on the Nordictrack. I have to change my thinking to overcome the “rut” that I am in. And again, this transformation is based on a renewed mind. I decide to do it.
Paul says to renew your mind with the intent of being transformed. Peter implies that by banishing “ignorance.” And how does Peter combat ignorance? He appeals to the “One who has called you.” He is holy. Instead of being ignorantly forced into a destructive form, we choose to act with holiness. I decide to be holy.
This is not a self-help plan to escape bad habits, etc. It is a structured response to temptation. “I have to sin, because I am a sinner.” This is the common response to an alluring temptation. But a renewed mind can respond, “I am called by the Holy One, to be holy. I have a choice. I choose to be holy.”
We are not the victim of circumstance, trapped in an untenable situation. We can choose to “get into shape.” I am starting with five minutes a day on the machines. It will go up as I get “less tired.” Every habit begins with a deliberate decision to change.
And in our spiritual lives, we have the identical option. If we let the world shape our responses to life, it will be an unholy mess. We can choose the “shape” of our lives by following Peter and Paul. Do not be conformed, be transformed.
Are you conformed or transformed?
Tuesday, September 27, 2016
Know It All
Arguing with someone who knows it all and someone who does not know what he is talking about is essentially the same thing. The guy who “know it all” really doesn’t but he doesn’t know that he does not know. The guy who doesn’t know just doesn’t know. So any discussion with either party is bound to end in futility.
That is probably why it is so difficult to debate an atheist or an evolutionist. They usually think that they know it all, when in fact they do not. So any argument to evidence is lost on them. One example is the “old saw” of entropy. That is usually the response when I bring it up.
“Oh that old saw? Everybody knows” (did I tell you?) “that an open system with unlimited energy can overcome the problems of entropy.”
He has to have a larger “system” than the universe, since entropy is in effect all over it and the “unlimited” energy does not exist. Now he has two problems instead of the one, making three.
And furthermore, when has increasing the energy in a system increased its organization? If I place a stick of dynamite in a stack of bricks and detonate it, the result is less order than before. (More entropy) Would substituting an atomic bomb for the dynamite produce the Civic Center? Nope, Just a more disorderly mess. Now we have four problems. But I digress.
My granddaughter was correcting us on the word “flustrated.” “It is FRUStrated,” she informed us. But if you mix flustered and frustrated, you get flustrated. That is how I feel when discussing facts and evidence with athe-lutionists. You can make a lot of sense when you combine words.
From the Big Bang on, we encounter arguments that are based on ignorance. “We don’t know what, or how the what “banged,” but it did, and here we are.” “We don’t know how everything came to be out of the explosion, but here we are.” “We do not know why the universe is expanding and accelerating, so there must be something that we do not know about that is making it happen, like dark matter.” “We do not know how life actually started, but here we are.” “We do not know what made the DNA change to produce the changes, but here we are.” “We do not know why some of the ‘changes’ were preserved, while others were not, but here we are.”
Here we are. The explanation for every step in evolution is prefaced with, “We do not know...but.” So how can we debate the merits of the position? Just for the record, once we posit a supernatural creation, everything makes perfect sense and correlates with all known “natural” laws. There are some things that we cannot explain, but our belief is not based on being able to solve all of the puzzles.
The evolutionist and atheist accuse believers of attributing everything to the “God in the box.” Actually, it is the God NOT in the box. They have to explain everything based on what is in the universe (box) while we are convinced that the box and all that is within it was made by God from outside. We don’t appeal to God when we cannot explain something, we appeal to Him to explain everything.
Paul explained it in Colossians 1:17: “And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.” “Before all things” puts Him outside the box. (“In the beginning, God already was.) And “...by Him...” we have the explanation for “...all things.”
Which brings us back to our thesis. Most of the time, the one who “knows it all,” doesn’t and in fact often knows nothing. They are just reciting responses, as with the entropy example. This is not to glorify our knowledge and acumen. But since we know the Answer it is much more attractive to face the unknown than without Him.
This knowledge is not our own. It was given to us. Peter outlined it for us in his second book, 1:19.
So we have the prophetic word made more sure, to which you do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts.
We take no pride in knowing. But we can take pride in the knowledge that has been revealed to us. Francis Schaeffer wrote about The God Who Is There. Schaeffer followed it up with He Is There, and He Is Not Silent. That is how we can know.
John 14:31 and John 17:23 both repeat the phrase, “...that the world may know.” God sent His Son to give His message to men. We have examined the veracity of His claims (RAMP) in several posts.
Jesus’ claim is both that He came from God, and that He can take us to God. Since there is no other way, it is important to KNOW what we need to know. “We don’t know,” will not yield a suitable path nor conclusion to our quest.
I know.
That is probably why it is so difficult to debate an atheist or an evolutionist. They usually think that they know it all, when in fact they do not. So any argument to evidence is lost on them. One example is the “old saw” of entropy. That is usually the response when I bring it up.
“Oh that old saw? Everybody knows” (did I tell you?) “that an open system with unlimited energy can overcome the problems of entropy.”
He has to have a larger “system” than the universe, since entropy is in effect all over it and the “unlimited” energy does not exist. Now he has two problems instead of the one, making three.
And furthermore, when has increasing the energy in a system increased its organization? If I place a stick of dynamite in a stack of bricks and detonate it, the result is less order than before. (More entropy) Would substituting an atomic bomb for the dynamite produce the Civic Center? Nope, Just a more disorderly mess. Now we have four problems. But I digress.
My granddaughter was correcting us on the word “flustrated.” “It is FRUStrated,” she informed us. But if you mix flustered and frustrated, you get flustrated. That is how I feel when discussing facts and evidence with athe-lutionists. You can make a lot of sense when you combine words.
From the Big Bang on, we encounter arguments that are based on ignorance. “We don’t know what, or how the what “banged,” but it did, and here we are.” “We don’t know how everything came to be out of the explosion, but here we are.” “We do not know why the universe is expanding and accelerating, so there must be something that we do not know about that is making it happen, like dark matter.” “We do not know how life actually started, but here we are.” “We do not know what made the DNA change to produce the changes, but here we are.” “We do not know why some of the ‘changes’ were preserved, while others were not, but here we are.”
Here we are. The explanation for every step in evolution is prefaced with, “We do not know...but.” So how can we debate the merits of the position? Just for the record, once we posit a supernatural creation, everything makes perfect sense and correlates with all known “natural” laws. There are some things that we cannot explain, but our belief is not based on being able to solve all of the puzzles.
The evolutionist and atheist accuse believers of attributing everything to the “God in the box.” Actually, it is the God NOT in the box. They have to explain everything based on what is in the universe (box) while we are convinced that the box and all that is within it was made by God from outside. We don’t appeal to God when we cannot explain something, we appeal to Him to explain everything.
Paul explained it in Colossians 1:17: “And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.” “Before all things” puts Him outside the box. (“In the beginning, God already was.) And “...by Him...” we have the explanation for “...all things.”
Which brings us back to our thesis. Most of the time, the one who “knows it all,” doesn’t and in fact often knows nothing. They are just reciting responses, as with the entropy example. This is not to glorify our knowledge and acumen. But since we know the Answer it is much more attractive to face the unknown than without Him.
This knowledge is not our own. It was given to us. Peter outlined it for us in his second book, 1:19.
So we have the prophetic word made more sure, to which you do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts.
We take no pride in knowing. But we can take pride in the knowledge that has been revealed to us. Francis Schaeffer wrote about The God Who Is There. Schaeffer followed it up with He Is There, and He Is Not Silent. That is how we can know.
John 14:31 and John 17:23 both repeat the phrase, “...that the world may know.” God sent His Son to give His message to men. We have examined the veracity of His claims (RAMP) in several posts.
Jesus’ claim is both that He came from God, and that He can take us to God. Since there is no other way, it is important to KNOW what we need to know. “We don’t know,” will not yield a suitable path nor conclusion to our quest.
I know.
RAMP Inspired
Previously we discussed the RAMP presentation for the existence and authority of God. (Resurrection, Archeology, Manuscripts–or Miracles, and Prophesy.) That approach is not new or original. Take a look at the source. 2 Peter 1
16 For we did not follow cleverly devised tales when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty. 17 For when He received honor and glory from God the Father, such an utterance as this was made to Him by the Majestic Glory, “This is My beloved Son with whom I am well-pleased”— 18 and we ourselves heard this utterance made from heaven when we were with Him on the holy mountain.
19 So we have the prophetic word made more sure, to which you do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts. 20 But know this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of one’s own interpretation, 21 for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.
Peter was encouraging his readers to remember and stay true to the message that they had heard. He expands on this by declaring that what he and the other disciples had preached was not “cleverly devised tales.”
Look at the outline: R Resurrection. “...the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” He was not just talking about the incarnation. There was not a lot of power displayed there. But the “coming alive.’ That theme suffused Peter’s writings from Pentecost on. He was overwhelmed by the resurrection. And indeed the entire life of Jesus.
A Archeology. He and they did not need to dig up historical proofs of Jesus. As Peter put it, they were “eyewitnesses.” Not, “I was,” but “we were.” There were a bunch, over 500, and they all told the same story. One witness may be disbelieved. Two witnesses may contradict each other with differing interpretations or understanding of events, but if 500 agree and stick with the story for life, it is compelling.
And this witness was not confined to just the resurrection story. They saw His “majesty,” particularly when Jesus was transformed on the mountain. (Note: Not all 500 saw everything, but reliable witnesses did. Two or three witnesses are required to confirm anything. Deuteronomy 16:15.
M Miracles. They not need manuscripts, as they were the authors. But miracles did abound, beginning with the resurrection and the transfiguration. This also refers back to the “cleverly devised tales.” They were actual events and the attestation was impeccable. There was no doubt.
(Note: There are no contemporary historians that deny the credibility of Jesus or the miracles. Even that great and reliable source of scholarship, Wikipedia, lists none. The “doubt” about the historicity of these things is an artifact of 19th century critics and not real scholars. Ed comment.)
And P for Prophesy. Verses 19-21 expand upon that, because Peter knew that coming generations would need a “more sure word” to preserve their faith and enable them to persevere. (See note above) They (We) have the prophetic word and an assurance of its origin and author. (Notice the Trinity embedded in the passage. Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are all Witnesses to us. Excuse the pun.)
So our friends at GOT LIFE? did not invent this idea. They copied it from the Apostle Peter. Can’t think of a much better source than that. Peter wants us to RAMP up our efforts to persevere and present the message to the world. He wants the day star to rise in the hearts of everyone we meet.
Go and meet more. Tell them all.
16 For we did not follow cleverly devised tales when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty. 17 For when He received honor and glory from God the Father, such an utterance as this was made to Him by the Majestic Glory, “This is My beloved Son with whom I am well-pleased”— 18 and we ourselves heard this utterance made from heaven when we were with Him on the holy mountain.
19 So we have the prophetic word made more sure, to which you do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts. 20 But know this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of one’s own interpretation, 21 for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.
Peter was encouraging his readers to remember and stay true to the message that they had heard. He expands on this by declaring that what he and the other disciples had preached was not “cleverly devised tales.”
Look at the outline: R Resurrection. “...the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” He was not just talking about the incarnation. There was not a lot of power displayed there. But the “coming alive.’ That theme suffused Peter’s writings from Pentecost on. He was overwhelmed by the resurrection. And indeed the entire life of Jesus.
A Archeology. He and they did not need to dig up historical proofs of Jesus. As Peter put it, they were “eyewitnesses.” Not, “I was,” but “we were.” There were a bunch, over 500, and they all told the same story. One witness may be disbelieved. Two witnesses may contradict each other with differing interpretations or understanding of events, but if 500 agree and stick with the story for life, it is compelling.
And this witness was not confined to just the resurrection story. They saw His “majesty,” particularly when Jesus was transformed on the mountain. (Note: Not all 500 saw everything, but reliable witnesses did. Two or three witnesses are required to confirm anything. Deuteronomy 16:15.
M Miracles. They not need manuscripts, as they were the authors. But miracles did abound, beginning with the resurrection and the transfiguration. This also refers back to the “cleverly devised tales.” They were actual events and the attestation was impeccable. There was no doubt.
(Note: There are no contemporary historians that deny the credibility of Jesus or the miracles. Even that great and reliable source of scholarship, Wikipedia, lists none. The “doubt” about the historicity of these things is an artifact of 19th century critics and not real scholars. Ed comment.)
And P for Prophesy. Verses 19-21 expand upon that, because Peter knew that coming generations would need a “more sure word” to preserve their faith and enable them to persevere. (See note above) They (We) have the prophetic word and an assurance of its origin and author. (Notice the Trinity embedded in the passage. Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are all Witnesses to us. Excuse the pun.)
So our friends at GOT LIFE? did not invent this idea. They copied it from the Apostle Peter. Can’t think of a much better source than that. Peter wants us to RAMP up our efforts to persevere and present the message to the world. He wants the day star to rise in the hearts of everyone we meet.
Go and meet more. Tell them all.
Tuesday, September 20, 2016
P, P, J, and J (1 Peter 1)
Take a big breath. We are going deep. Or rather, our writer is going deep. Look at 1 Peter 1:3 to end of chapter. Verses 1 and 2 are salutation, but Peter throws in a good bit of theology that we will pass over for now. He is talking to believers who are scattered pretty much across the known world.
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, 5 who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
Whew that is a mouthful right there. And he has just begun. (The Carpenters We’ve only just begun...) Peter starts with “the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” That is a great place to start, but that is just opening the door. Who.... Now he has switched to the tool that God used.
Peter returns to the mercy and what it did: ...caused us to be born again to a living hope. It is getting good and it is “only just begun.” The focus has shifted to “us” (both Peter and the rest of us). We have hope that is alive. How did the hope arise? “Through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” We are in verse 3 and Peter is off on the resurrection. (We discussed that in an earlier post. Three Minute Drill RAMP, and More on R ) According to history, Peter requested to be crucified up-side down because he was not worthy to be executed in the same manner as his Lord.
Peter was obsessed with the resurrection. Check out his first sermon in Acts 2. And here, near the end of his life, he is still talking about it like it is important. It is. Peter was obsessed and here is why: we have the living hope and are enabled ...to obtain an inheritance... The inheritance has four characteristics. It will never decay or lose potency. It will never be contaminated. It will last forever. It is in an unassailable vault, heaven. And it is ours.
Peter continues with us: we are protected, and, by implication, like our salvation. We will persevere. Jesus calls us “overcomers” in Revelation 2 and 3. He says it seven times. (I will leave it to you to find them.) And now Peter begins his second sentence. (He is a little more concise than I am.) Grab another breath.
6 In this (ed. salvation) you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, 7 so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ; 8 and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, 9 obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls.
Could you read that on one breath? We rejoice in the salvation, but suffer some trials to prove our faith, which is more precious than gold...huh, huh, huh...this gold will perish, even though proved by fire, but our faith will not deteriorate and will bring praise and glory and honor to Jesus, Whom we have not seen, but love, and believe in him, rejoicing with unutterable joy that is gloriously fulfilling, and we produce the result of salvation by faith. Uhhh, huuuh. Just let those terms and thoughts wash over your consciousness. Whoa! And we are not done.
10 As to this salvation, the prophets who prophesied of the grace that would come to you made careful searches and inquiries, 11 seeking to know what person or time the Spirit of Christ within them was indicating as He predicted the sufferings of Christ and the glories to follow. 12 It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves, but you, in these things which now have been announced to you through those who preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven—things into which angels long to look.
The prophets who reported this to us did not understand what they wrote. They did not just mindlessly repeat what was shown them, they investigated and asked questions seeking more understanding. And then they ran into the Holy Spirit Who explained that their message was for us. And the song goes on. We have received the message, one that even angels do not understand. And how do we respond? We better tell it. Here’s how.
13 Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts which were yours in your ignorance, 15 but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; 16 because it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”
Prepare for action. (Notice that the mind is involved again. Not just emotions. Hearts and Stones) Prepare, keep sober, and fix your attention on the tools. A phrase in the military is “fix bayonets.” Our “hope” (see above) is strengthened by the grace that we receive when we see Christ. We fix our attention and are not conformed to the world. This conformation is effectuated by lusts. (Recall the difference between a heart of stone and one of flesh. It is the renewing of our mind that transforms us. Romans 12:1, 2) (Hearts and stones Sept 15, 2016)
And how do we defeat lust? Banish ignorance, and plan to be holy. It is not just an accident. We “fix” our minds on holiness, based on knowledge, and obey what we know.
Then Peter gets into the rewards. First the qualifier. If.... When we call Him Father, we are exercising the obedience and faith in the One who redeemed us.
17 If you address as Father the One who impartially judges according to each one’s work, conduct yourselves in fear during the time of your stay on earth; 18 knowing that you were not redeemed with perishable things like silver or gold from your futile way of life inherited from your forefathers, 19 but with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ. 20 For He was foreknown before the foundation of the world, but has appeared in these last times for the sake of you 21 who through Him are believers in God, who raised Him from the dead and gave Him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.
Time for more deep breaths. Peter threw in that foreknowing and choosing thing (v. 2) again. Must be important. And then he goes on...
22 Since you have in obedience to the truth purified your souls for a sincere love of the brethren, fervently love one another from the heart, 23 for you have been born again not of seed which is perishable but imperishable, that is, through the living and enduring word of God. 24 For,
“All flesh is like grass, And all its glory like the flower of grass.
The grass withers, And the flower falls off, 25 But the word of the Lord endures forever.”
And this is the word which was preached to you.
That was quite an introduction, wasn’t it? It starts and then each thought takes Peter down an explanatory rabbit trail. But it all makes perfect sense and drives us to the conclusion.
Doesn’t sound like a lowly fisherman does it? I agree. That is why spurious scholars, like Bart Ehrman doubt that Peter wrote the book. (Aside, Bart does not like much of the Book, and is wrong, so his criticism is not too troubling.) Peter has been transformed, perhaps by association with Paul and Silas, and probably even Mark. But more than that, the Holy Spirit is speaking through him. Remember back in Acts that the critics were amazed at how these ignorant, uneducated guys conversed? (Acts 4:13) There is still hope for us.
This message seems to saturate the writings of Peter, Paul, Jude, and John, who were probably the final writers in the New Testament. (Matthew, Luke, and James were the other authors and seemed to come earlier. Note, there is some question about Hebrews.) So the P, P, J, and J group finished off the message. (Sounds like a gospel quartet, doesn’t it? Our crew was D. D. R. and J. accompanied by D. Oh the places we could have gone...but I digress.)
I like the last phrase. We have had this message preached to us. Now we have the ball and it is time to run. Then the rest of 1 Peter builds on that. 1 Peter 2:1 Therefore....
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, 5 who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
Whew that is a mouthful right there. And he has just begun. (The Carpenters We’ve only just begun...) Peter starts with “the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” That is a great place to start, but that is just opening the door. Who.... Now he has switched to the tool that God used.
Peter returns to the mercy and what it did: ...caused us to be born again to a living hope. It is getting good and it is “only just begun.” The focus has shifted to “us” (both Peter and the rest of us). We have hope that is alive. How did the hope arise? “Through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” We are in verse 3 and Peter is off on the resurrection. (We discussed that in an earlier post. Three Minute Drill RAMP, and More on R ) According to history, Peter requested to be crucified up-side down because he was not worthy to be executed in the same manner as his Lord.
Peter was obsessed with the resurrection. Check out his first sermon in Acts 2. And here, near the end of his life, he is still talking about it like it is important. It is. Peter was obsessed and here is why: we have the living hope and are enabled ...to obtain an inheritance... The inheritance has four characteristics. It will never decay or lose potency. It will never be contaminated. It will last forever. It is in an unassailable vault, heaven. And it is ours.
Peter continues with us: we are protected, and, by implication, like our salvation. We will persevere. Jesus calls us “overcomers” in Revelation 2 and 3. He says it seven times. (I will leave it to you to find them.) And now Peter begins his second sentence. (He is a little more concise than I am.) Grab another breath.
6 In this (ed. salvation) you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, 7 so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ; 8 and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, 9 obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls.
Could you read that on one breath? We rejoice in the salvation, but suffer some trials to prove our faith, which is more precious than gold...huh, huh, huh...this gold will perish, even though proved by fire, but our faith will not deteriorate and will bring praise and glory and honor to Jesus, Whom we have not seen, but love, and believe in him, rejoicing with unutterable joy that is gloriously fulfilling, and we produce the result of salvation by faith. Uhhh, huuuh. Just let those terms and thoughts wash over your consciousness. Whoa! And we are not done.
10 As to this salvation, the prophets who prophesied of the grace that would come to you made careful searches and inquiries, 11 seeking to know what person or time the Spirit of Christ within them was indicating as He predicted the sufferings of Christ and the glories to follow. 12 It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves, but you, in these things which now have been announced to you through those who preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven—things into which angels long to look.
The prophets who reported this to us did not understand what they wrote. They did not just mindlessly repeat what was shown them, they investigated and asked questions seeking more understanding. And then they ran into the Holy Spirit Who explained that their message was for us. And the song goes on. We have received the message, one that even angels do not understand. And how do we respond? We better tell it. Here’s how.
13 Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts which were yours in your ignorance, 15 but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; 16 because it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”
Prepare for action. (Notice that the mind is involved again. Not just emotions. Hearts and Stones) Prepare, keep sober, and fix your attention on the tools. A phrase in the military is “fix bayonets.” Our “hope” (see above) is strengthened by the grace that we receive when we see Christ. We fix our attention and are not conformed to the world. This conformation is effectuated by lusts. (Recall the difference between a heart of stone and one of flesh. It is the renewing of our mind that transforms us. Romans 12:1, 2) (Hearts and stones Sept 15, 2016)
And how do we defeat lust? Banish ignorance, and plan to be holy. It is not just an accident. We “fix” our minds on holiness, based on knowledge, and obey what we know.
Then Peter gets into the rewards. First the qualifier. If.... When we call Him Father, we are exercising the obedience and faith in the One who redeemed us.
17 If you address as Father the One who impartially judges according to each one’s work, conduct yourselves in fear during the time of your stay on earth; 18 knowing that you were not redeemed with perishable things like silver or gold from your futile way of life inherited from your forefathers, 19 but with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ. 20 For He was foreknown before the foundation of the world, but has appeared in these last times for the sake of you 21 who through Him are believers in God, who raised Him from the dead and gave Him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.
Time for more deep breaths. Peter threw in that foreknowing and choosing thing (v. 2) again. Must be important. And then he goes on...
22 Since you have in obedience to the truth purified your souls for a sincere love of the brethren, fervently love one another from the heart, 23 for you have been born again not of seed which is perishable but imperishable, that is, through the living and enduring word of God. 24 For,
“All flesh is like grass, And all its glory like the flower of grass.
The grass withers, And the flower falls off, 25 But the word of the Lord endures forever.”
And this is the word which was preached to you.
That was quite an introduction, wasn’t it? It starts and then each thought takes Peter down an explanatory rabbit trail. But it all makes perfect sense and drives us to the conclusion.
Doesn’t sound like a lowly fisherman does it? I agree. That is why spurious scholars, like Bart Ehrman doubt that Peter wrote the book. (Aside, Bart does not like much of the Book, and is wrong, so his criticism is not too troubling.) Peter has been transformed, perhaps by association with Paul and Silas, and probably even Mark. But more than that, the Holy Spirit is speaking through him. Remember back in Acts that the critics were amazed at how these ignorant, uneducated guys conversed? (Acts 4:13) There is still hope for us.
This message seems to saturate the writings of Peter, Paul, Jude, and John, who were probably the final writers in the New Testament. (Matthew, Luke, and James were the other authors and seemed to come earlier. Note, there is some question about Hebrews.) So the P, P, J, and J group finished off the message. (Sounds like a gospel quartet, doesn’t it? Our crew was D. D. R. and J. accompanied by D. Oh the places we could have gone...but I digress.)
I like the last phrase. We have had this message preached to us. Now we have the ball and it is time to run. Then the rest of 1 Peter builds on that. 1 Peter 2:1 Therefore....
Thursday, September 15, 2016
Of Hearts and Stones
Our discussion of Psalm 19 and 119 was followed by this verse. Heb 10:16
“This is the covenant that I will make with them After those days," says the Lord: "I will put My laws upon their heart, And on their mind I will write them,”
From the focus on God’s law, we have turned to the practical application. During Moses’ time and onward the Law was written on stone tablets. Recall the scene as Moses returns from his 40 day stint on the mountain to find the Children of Israel basically in the middle of an orgy. They had pretty much trashed all ten, and to illustrate that, Moses smashed the tablets.
(Aside: They did not really “break the law” but broke themselves on it. That distinction is critical even today.)
Now picture Moses trudging back up the mountain carrying the two stone tablets that he had to carve out. I think that the first pair were provided gratis from the Lord. The second ones were “hand carved” by Moses.
Mini Lesson: Exodus 32:16 The tablets were God’s work, and the writing was God’s writing engraved on the tablets. And after the demonstration (or perhaps temper tantrum): Exodus 34:1
Now the Lord said to Moses, “Cut out for yourself two stone tablets like the former ones, and I will write on the tablets the words that were on the former tablets which you shattered."
God wrote on both sets, but I think that Old Mo had to replace the blanks. Lesson–even in a “good cause” losing your temper is probably not a good idea. End of mini lesson.
Those tablets with the law on them accompanied the Israelites during the 40 years in the wilderness, during the conquest of Canaan, all during the time of the judges, then the kings, and finally came to rest in Solomon’s temple. We lose track of them at this point. Whether they were taken to Babylon by Nebuchadnezzar or were secreted somewhere by zealous priests before the destruction of the temple is unknown.
It is perhaps propitious that they were “lost.” The Israelites worshiped the bronze snakes that Moses made in the wilderness to teach them about faith. (Numbers 21:6-9) It is possible that they would have made the tablets of the law an idol as well. Paul referred to this dichotomy of stone and hearts in 2 Corinthians 3:3
being manifested that you are a letter of Christ, cared for by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.
Does the “stony” heart we see in the Old Ttestament and even in the Jews of Jesus’ day reflect the stone medium carrying the law? But we can even see hard hearts in our lives today. God prefers to find a soft heart, one of flesh.
Our verse today stems from Jeremiah 31:33
"But this is the covenant which I will make with the house of Israel after those days," declares the LORD, "I will put My law within them and on their heart I will write it; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people."
The intent of this rewriting is to produce a perfect people as compared to the “rewrite” in Moses’ time. Ezek. 11:19–20
And I will give them one heart, and put a new spirit within them. And I will take the heart of stone out of their flesh and give them a heart of flesh, that they may walk in My statutes and keep My ordinances and do them. Then they will be My people, and I shall be their God.
This is actually a prophetic Scripture. It is fulfilled individually in the lives of believers. But it has not happened for the nation of Israel. There is a lot to anticipate. This recalls the old acrostic: GINFWMY “God Is Not Finished With Me Yet.” We could substitute GINFWIY. God is not finished with Israel yet.
Now focus on the verse. Repeat to help us remember:
“This is the covenant that I will make with them After those days, says the Lord: I will put My laws upon their heart, And on their mind I will write them,”
The laws are first placed on our hearts. This could apply to the conscience, but more importantly, the words and ideas become a natural outgrowth and expression of our life and love for Jesus. Then He writes them on our minds. This is the cognitive aspect of understanding and enforcing the laws in our actions.
The Lord wants us to do things because they are right, and be able to explain the rationale for doing so. Peter advises us to be ready to give an answer at any time. (1 Peter 3:15)
“Thy word have I hid in my heart, that I may not sin against Thee.” (Psalm 119:11)
“This is the covenant that I will make with them After those days," says the Lord: "I will put My laws upon their heart, And on their mind I will write them,”
From the focus on God’s law, we have turned to the practical application. During Moses’ time and onward the Law was written on stone tablets. Recall the scene as Moses returns from his 40 day stint on the mountain to find the Children of Israel basically in the middle of an orgy. They had pretty much trashed all ten, and to illustrate that, Moses smashed the tablets.
(Aside: They did not really “break the law” but broke themselves on it. That distinction is critical even today.)
Now picture Moses trudging back up the mountain carrying the two stone tablets that he had to carve out. I think that the first pair were provided gratis from the Lord. The second ones were “hand carved” by Moses.
Mini Lesson: Exodus 32:16 The tablets were God’s work, and the writing was God’s writing engraved on the tablets. And after the demonstration (or perhaps temper tantrum): Exodus 34:1
Now the Lord said to Moses, “Cut out for yourself two stone tablets like the former ones, and I will write on the tablets the words that were on the former tablets which you shattered."
God wrote on both sets, but I think that Old Mo had to replace the blanks. Lesson–even in a “good cause” losing your temper is probably not a good idea. End of mini lesson.
Those tablets with the law on them accompanied the Israelites during the 40 years in the wilderness, during the conquest of Canaan, all during the time of the judges, then the kings, and finally came to rest in Solomon’s temple. We lose track of them at this point. Whether they were taken to Babylon by Nebuchadnezzar or were secreted somewhere by zealous priests before the destruction of the temple is unknown.
It is perhaps propitious that they were “lost.” The Israelites worshiped the bronze snakes that Moses made in the wilderness to teach them about faith. (Numbers 21:6-9) It is possible that they would have made the tablets of the law an idol as well. Paul referred to this dichotomy of stone and hearts in 2 Corinthians 3:3
being manifested that you are a letter of Christ, cared for by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.
Does the “stony” heart we see in the Old Ttestament and even in the Jews of Jesus’ day reflect the stone medium carrying the law? But we can even see hard hearts in our lives today. God prefers to find a soft heart, one of flesh.
Our verse today stems from Jeremiah 31:33
"But this is the covenant which I will make with the house of Israel after those days," declares the LORD, "I will put My law within them and on their heart I will write it; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people."
The intent of this rewriting is to produce a perfect people as compared to the “rewrite” in Moses’ time. Ezek. 11:19–20
And I will give them one heart, and put a new spirit within them. And I will take the heart of stone out of their flesh and give them a heart of flesh, that they may walk in My statutes and keep My ordinances and do them. Then they will be My people, and I shall be their God.
This is actually a prophetic Scripture. It is fulfilled individually in the lives of believers. But it has not happened for the nation of Israel. There is a lot to anticipate. This recalls the old acrostic: GINFWMY “God Is Not Finished With Me Yet.” We could substitute GINFWIY. God is not finished with Israel yet.
Now focus on the verse. Repeat to help us remember:
“This is the covenant that I will make with them After those days, says the Lord: I will put My laws upon their heart, And on their mind I will write them,”
The laws are first placed on our hearts. This could apply to the conscience, but more importantly, the words and ideas become a natural outgrowth and expression of our life and love for Jesus. Then He writes them on our minds. This is the cognitive aspect of understanding and enforcing the laws in our actions.
The Lord wants us to do things because they are right, and be able to explain the rationale for doing so. Peter advises us to be ready to give an answer at any time. (1 Peter 3:15)
“Thy word have I hid in my heart, that I may not sin against Thee.” (Psalm 119:11)
Monday, September 12, 2016
Blot Out Your Name
There is an interesting statement in Revelation 3:5
He who overcomes will thus be clothed in white garments; and I will not erase his name from the book of life, and I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.
John MacArthur was asked a question about this that I have heard several times. Since Jesus said that He would not erase the name of the overcomer, does that mean that it could possibly be erased? MacArthur’s answer was to do a double take.
Essentially he suggested that it is not very good scholarship to ask if the name can be erased when promised that it would not be erased. This seems to take a statement, turn it upside down and then ask if that is a correct deduction. In short, it is an inference based on a deduction. Just read the statement.
In the context of Roman times, a person was born as a Roman citizen. Only for the most egregious violations, such as overt treason, could a born citizen lose his citizenship. Normally, it was a birthright for life. Jesus may have been referring to that and proclaiming that the overcomer would not ever lose his “place” in the book of life. But that leaves the possibility of losing it, however remote.
Let’s look at it another way. Einstein’s relativity theory says that a body cannot go faster than the speed of light. Does that mean that it could, but that it would not go faster? Astronaut A declares that he is going to a distant star but he will not exceed the speed of light. Does that mean that he could, but that he would not go faster than light speed? The theory of relativity answers that for us. No. (It might also question our intellect for asking. This may be the quintessential, "dumb question.") If something is impossible, agreeing that it is impossible does not raise the possibility that it is possible. Make sense?
The Book of Life can be likened to that. Five other places in Revelation mention the book and we can get some guidance from them. Revelation 13:8; 17:8; 20:12; 20:15 and 21:27. The two in chapters 13 and 17 give us some understanding.
Revelation 13:8 All who dwell on the earth will worship him, everyone whose name has not been written from the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb who has been slain.
The “him” is the anti-Christ. But the key phrase is that his worshipers are the earth dwellers whose names have NOT been written in the Lamb’s book of life–from the foundation of the world. (We won’t “rabbit” after the theology of that, but suffice it to say a name written in the Book has been there since the beginning of time, and according to Jesus will not be blotted out.) Chapter 17 repeats that. So like relativity and the speed of light, the answer to the “can” question is, “NO.” It cannot because it is impossible.
Our verse today is not a veiled threat that a name will be blotted out. It is an absolute assurance that we will overcome and not be blotted out.
That calls for a “Glory!”
He who overcomes will thus be clothed in white garments; and I will not erase his name from the book of life, and I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.
John MacArthur was asked a question about this that I have heard several times. Since Jesus said that He would not erase the name of the overcomer, does that mean that it could possibly be erased? MacArthur’s answer was to do a double take.
Essentially he suggested that it is not very good scholarship to ask if the name can be erased when promised that it would not be erased. This seems to take a statement, turn it upside down and then ask if that is a correct deduction. In short, it is an inference based on a deduction. Just read the statement.
In the context of Roman times, a person was born as a Roman citizen. Only for the most egregious violations, such as overt treason, could a born citizen lose his citizenship. Normally, it was a birthright for life. Jesus may have been referring to that and proclaiming that the overcomer would not ever lose his “place” in the book of life. But that leaves the possibility of losing it, however remote.
Let’s look at it another way. Einstein’s relativity theory says that a body cannot go faster than the speed of light. Does that mean that it could, but that it would not go faster? Astronaut A declares that he is going to a distant star but he will not exceed the speed of light. Does that mean that he could, but that he would not go faster than light speed? The theory of relativity answers that for us. No. (It might also question our intellect for asking. This may be the quintessential, "dumb question.") If something is impossible, agreeing that it is impossible does not raise the possibility that it is possible. Make sense?
The Book of Life can be likened to that. Five other places in Revelation mention the book and we can get some guidance from them. Revelation 13:8; 17:8; 20:12; 20:15 and 21:27. The two in chapters 13 and 17 give us some understanding.
Revelation 13:8 All who dwell on the earth will worship him, everyone whose name has not been written from the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb who has been slain.
The “him” is the anti-Christ. But the key phrase is that his worshipers are the earth dwellers whose names have NOT been written in the Lamb’s book of life–from the foundation of the world. (We won’t “rabbit” after the theology of that, but suffice it to say a name written in the Book has been there since the beginning of time, and according to Jesus will not be blotted out.) Chapter 17 repeats that. So like relativity and the speed of light, the answer to the “can” question is, “NO.” It cannot because it is impossible.
Our verse today is not a veiled threat that a name will be blotted out. It is an absolute assurance that we will overcome and not be blotted out.
That calls for a “Glory!”
Friday, September 9, 2016
Psalms in Psalms: 19 and 119
(See below for the original)
Memorizing Scripture is a great way to focus on the meaning of the passage and to integrate it into the context. Psalm 19 is an exciting example of this. I have been memorizing verses 7 through 11. They are excerpted here: (For full text follow link.)
7 The instruction of the Lord, the testimony of the Lord, the precepts of the Lord, the command of the Lord, the fear of the Lord, the ordinances of the Lord ...
Here is the final thought:
10 They are more desirable than gold—than an abundance of pure gold; and sweeter than honey, which comes from the honeycomb. 11 In addition, Your servant is warned by them; there is great reward in keeping them.
The descriptions of the Word of the Lord help to highlight and explain what and how we interact with them. Then verse 10 gives us the value proposition. Notice MORE desirable than gold, even pure gold. Pure gold is described as 24K. And David proclaims that God’s commands are more desirable. Some things that are valuable, are not really very attractive or “friendly.”
For instance plutonium would cost more than gold, but who wants a ring or other jewelry from that? So using the term “desirable” David is implying more than value. It is worthwhile, useful, and more meaningful than monetary value. Notice that the value is intrinsic. It is not derived from FOLLOWING them. It is there, regardless of what we do with it.
Second he says it is sweeter than honey. Honey out of the comb. Why would he specify that? I was looking at a bottle of honey years ago and noted that it had “sugared.” An expert heard my comment and informed me that when honey has sugared, it is evidence that it is pure honey.
A lot of commercial honey is mixed with syrup specifically to keep it from forming sugar. Ironic that a diluted product is chosen over a pure one. And syrup is not as sweet as honey. David’s comparison is the reverse of syrup mixtures. It is sweeter than honey.
Again, we do not need to taste honey for it to be sweet. It is inherently sweet and we realize and enjoy that when we consume it.
Which brings us to verse 11.
In addition, Your servant is warned by them; there is great reward in keeping them.
The value and sweetness of God’s Word becomes personal to us when we “keep” it. We are warned away from evil and have the “reward” of not being condemned as an evil doer–or criminal. Now that nicely couples with Psalm 119:101-104.
I have kept my feet from every evil path to follow Your word. 102 I have not turned from Your judgments, for You Yourself have instructed me. 103 How sweet Your word is to my taste—sweeter than honey in my mouth. 104 I gain understanding from Your precepts;therefore I hate every false way.
Note the reference to sweetness again. The writer is using a comparison. Which is better or more desirable, to keep on the straight and narrow–and out of prison–or run wild for a while and “do the time?” An old saying affirms that “stolen bread is sweet.” Psalms 19 and 119 both counter that keeping out of trouble, i.e. not stealing, is sweeter.
A popular exclamation when things go well, is, “Sweet!” Psalms gives us reinforcement. Keep clean and pure. Keep sweet.
Memorizing Scripture is a great way to focus on the meaning of the passage and to integrate it into the context. Psalm 19 is an exciting example of this. I have been memorizing verses 7 through 11. They are excerpted here: (For full text follow link.)
7 The instruction of the Lord, the testimony of the Lord, the precepts of the Lord, the command of the Lord, the fear of the Lord, the ordinances of the Lord ...
Here is the final thought:
10 They are more desirable than gold—than an abundance of pure gold; and sweeter than honey, which comes from the honeycomb. 11 In addition, Your servant is warned by them; there is great reward in keeping them.
The descriptions of the Word of the Lord help to highlight and explain what and how we interact with them. Then verse 10 gives us the value proposition. Notice MORE desirable than gold, even pure gold. Pure gold is described as 24K. And David proclaims that God’s commands are more desirable. Some things that are valuable, are not really very attractive or “friendly.”
For instance plutonium would cost more than gold, but who wants a ring or other jewelry from that? So using the term “desirable” David is implying more than value. It is worthwhile, useful, and more meaningful than monetary value. Notice that the value is intrinsic. It is not derived from FOLLOWING them. It is there, regardless of what we do with it.
Second he says it is sweeter than honey. Honey out of the comb. Why would he specify that? I was looking at a bottle of honey years ago and noted that it had “sugared.” An expert heard my comment and informed me that when honey has sugared, it is evidence that it is pure honey.
A lot of commercial honey is mixed with syrup specifically to keep it from forming sugar. Ironic that a diluted product is chosen over a pure one. And syrup is not as sweet as honey. David’s comparison is the reverse of syrup mixtures. It is sweeter than honey.
Again, we do not need to taste honey for it to be sweet. It is inherently sweet and we realize and enjoy that when we consume it.
Which brings us to verse 11.
In addition, Your servant is warned by them; there is great reward in keeping them.
The value and sweetness of God’s Word becomes personal to us when we “keep” it. We are warned away from evil and have the “reward” of not being condemned as an evil doer–or criminal. Now that nicely couples with Psalm 119:101-104.
I have kept my feet from every evil path to follow Your word. 102 I have not turned from Your judgments, for You Yourself have instructed me. 103 How sweet Your word is to my taste—sweeter than honey in my mouth. 104 I gain understanding from Your precepts;therefore I hate every false way.
Note the reference to sweetness again. The writer is using a comparison. Which is better or more desirable, to keep on the straight and narrow–and out of prison–or run wild for a while and “do the time?” An old saying affirms that “stolen bread is sweet.” Psalms 19 and 119 both counter that keeping out of trouble, i.e. not stealing, is sweeter.
A popular exclamation when things go well, is, “Sweet!” Psalms gives us reinforcement. Keep clean and pure. Keep sweet.
Thursday, September 8, 2016
Truth Project: Do Not Be Taken Captive
I had the privilege and joy of beginning to experience the Truth Project again last night. And believe it or not, someone else can do a good job in leading it. I was ready to jump in and help out if he ran into trouble, but no need. I think that I may have found a new friend. At least he is a potential friend. We should get along well.
If you have never been through the Truth Project let me encourage, no strongly enjoin you to do so. And do it as quickly as possible. (Link) This is a critical time in the life of our country and the world. The circumstances need, no require, clear, concise, Christian thinking. By Christian I do not mean sectarian, but Christ centered, Biblically based understanding and interpretation.
One of the key issues was R. C. Sproul repeating Romans 12:2.
Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.
He repeated this in response to the warning Paul gave in Colossians 2:8.
Be careful that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deceit based on human tradition, based on the elemental forces of the world, and not based on Christ.
How do we avoid being taken captive and deceived by philosophy? Do not let this world shape you, but let your mind be transformed or metamorphosed. Notice the progression. First resist the pressures of the world, but do not stop there. Renew your mind, transform it, change it as radically as a caterpillar (insect, not machine for my Peoria friends) caterpillar metamorphoses into a butterfly.
And here Dr. Sproul emphasizes that this is an intellectual process. Too often we find people who want to experience a “spiritual awakening” but want that experience to leap directly to their heart, bypassing the mind. Paul said that the ability to resist conforming is based on our intellectual preparation.
How else can we recognize the deceit of human tradition, the elemental forces of the world? The world uses what Del Tackett calls, assumptive language. They make an assumption and then reason from that as if it had been proved. Most often it has not and cannot be proved.
A recent headline on the Loch Ness monster began, “There is no doubt the shores of Scotland teemed with gigantic sea reptiles 170 million years ago.” Notice the assumption? First “no doubt.” Second “170 million years ago.” The author does not want to discuss his assumptions, so begins with, “No doubt,” despite the fact that there was no calendar on the remains of the particular specimen he is discussing. So he assumes 170 million years and buttresses his assumption with bravado–“No doubt.”
If we challenge it we appear to be simpletons or ignorant buffoons. Our pride keeps us quiet.
It is tempting to follow this attractive rabbit trail, but our point is assumptive language. “Get on the right side of history,” we are often challenged when discussing “archaic” or even reactionary ideas of morality and behavior. Assumption: this is right and you are wrong, but will eventually come around to our way of thinking. (It is a good thing old Chris Columbo did not “come around.” I guess literally he DID come around and they had to follow. Pun intended.)
Our minds are the defense against such camouflaged attacks. They attack our emotions. “Catch up with the times,” and the like. Cartoons are effective bazookas against our emotions and are utilized regularly.
Just thinking is not the answer. We have to have something to think about. This involves some basis for our thoughts and actions and ultimately beliefs and behavior. We study Scripture. Then we branch out into investigations of the other “proofs” God has given us.
Psalm 19:1 gives us a good starting place.
The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky proclaims the work of His hands.
Notice how the chapter continues:
Day after day they pour out speech; night after night they communicate knowledge.
3 There is no speech; there are no words; their voice is not heard.4 Their message has gone out to all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world.
Without spoken language, the message has gone out to the entire world. But we have to look and listen to it. Study. Learn. (See below.) And the transformation will produce a defense and armor against being a captive to the philosophy of this world. Notice that Paul does not call it a fake or false philosophy. It is real, but it is wrong.
“Study to show your self approved.” Join a Truth Project group. (2 Timothy 2:15)
Join a small group. https://www.mytruthproject.org/small_group_support/search_groups.aspx
See the Ps 19 Studies in Sweet 16 July
If you have never been through the Truth Project let me encourage, no strongly enjoin you to do so. And do it as quickly as possible. (Link) This is a critical time in the life of our country and the world. The circumstances need, no require, clear, concise, Christian thinking. By Christian I do not mean sectarian, but Christ centered, Biblically based understanding and interpretation.
One of the key issues was R. C. Sproul repeating Romans 12:2.
Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.
He repeated this in response to the warning Paul gave in Colossians 2:8.
Be careful that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deceit based on human tradition, based on the elemental forces of the world, and not based on Christ.
How do we avoid being taken captive and deceived by philosophy? Do not let this world shape you, but let your mind be transformed or metamorphosed. Notice the progression. First resist the pressures of the world, but do not stop there. Renew your mind, transform it, change it as radically as a caterpillar (insect, not machine for my Peoria friends) caterpillar metamorphoses into a butterfly.
And here Dr. Sproul emphasizes that this is an intellectual process. Too often we find people who want to experience a “spiritual awakening” but want that experience to leap directly to their heart, bypassing the mind. Paul said that the ability to resist conforming is based on our intellectual preparation.
How else can we recognize the deceit of human tradition, the elemental forces of the world? The world uses what Del Tackett calls, assumptive language. They make an assumption and then reason from that as if it had been proved. Most often it has not and cannot be proved.
A recent headline on the Loch Ness monster began, “There is no doubt the shores of Scotland teemed with gigantic sea reptiles 170 million years ago.” Notice the assumption? First “no doubt.” Second “170 million years ago.” The author does not want to discuss his assumptions, so begins with, “No doubt,” despite the fact that there was no calendar on the remains of the particular specimen he is discussing. So he assumes 170 million years and buttresses his assumption with bravado–“No doubt.”
If we challenge it we appear to be simpletons or ignorant buffoons. Our pride keeps us quiet.
It is tempting to follow this attractive rabbit trail, but our point is assumptive language. “Get on the right side of history,” we are often challenged when discussing “archaic” or even reactionary ideas of morality and behavior. Assumption: this is right and you are wrong, but will eventually come around to our way of thinking. (It is a good thing old Chris Columbo did not “come around.” I guess literally he DID come around and they had to follow. Pun intended.)
Our minds are the defense against such camouflaged attacks. They attack our emotions. “Catch up with the times,” and the like. Cartoons are effective bazookas against our emotions and are utilized regularly.
Just thinking is not the answer. We have to have something to think about. This involves some basis for our thoughts and actions and ultimately beliefs and behavior. We study Scripture. Then we branch out into investigations of the other “proofs” God has given us.
Psalm 19:1 gives us a good starting place.
The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky proclaims the work of His hands.
Notice how the chapter continues:
Day after day they pour out speech; night after night they communicate knowledge.
3 There is no speech; there are no words; their voice is not heard.4 Their message has gone out to all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world.
Without spoken language, the message has gone out to the entire world. But we have to look and listen to it. Study. Learn. (See below.) And the transformation will produce a defense and armor against being a captive to the philosophy of this world. Notice that Paul does not call it a fake or false philosophy. It is real, but it is wrong.
“Study to show your self approved.” Join a Truth Project group. (2 Timothy 2:15)
Join a small group. https://www.mytruthproject.org/small_group_support/search_groups.aspx
See the Ps 19 Studies in Sweet 16 July
Wednesday, September 7, 2016
RAMP Reviewed
RAMP Reviewed
(See three earlier posts below. Three Minute Drill and other RAMP posts.)
The Original RAMP used “miracles” instead of manuscripts. The manuscripts detail the miracles, so there is a lot of overlap there. And just recently a new edition of Lee Strobel’s The Case for Christ was published and it contains a treasure house of information on this topic.
I just recently received a link for another look at archeology.
Let’s take a quick look at Miracles as a proof for God, Jesus, and the Bible. Miracles involve a supernatural intervention into somebody’s daily life–or even death in the case of some, like Lazarus. The question, then is how do we know that these are not just fables or invented stories? Back to the earlier comments, particularly the manuscripts. These reports were written during the lifetimes of the witnesses.
One of my favorites is 1 Corinthians 15:6:
Then He appeared to over 500 brothers at one time; most of them are still alive, but some have fallen asleep.
Notice Paul’s qualifier. This does two things. First, it confirms that this epistle was written in the time frame of AD 50-55, because some people who were there about AD 35 were still present. The critics claiming that it was written 100 years later are out to lunch.
Second, this is another internal confirmation of the veracity of the report. If there are living witnesses, it is hard to promulgate a myth, especially such an outlandish one as a dead person being seen alive.
The other miracles ranging from changing water to wine; walking on water; healing the sick, lame, blind, and deaf; and even raising the dead were never denied or refuted by witnesses. Even the Jewish leaders admitted that He had done miracles, but attributed them to demonic powers. (Matthew 9, Matthew 12, and Mark 3)The two options become clear when the recipients of the miracles are repeatedly advised to “worship God” after receiving a miracle.
Combining the miracles with the manuscript evidence and confirmation produces a compelling and conclusive result. Adding the two times that God spoke from heaven concerning Jesus makes this a very difficult proof to logically and rationally deny.
Matthew 9 Particularly vs. 34
Matthew 12 Particularly vs. 24
Mark 3 Particularly vs.22
Matthew 3:17 and 17:5
(See three earlier posts below. Three Minute Drill and other RAMP posts.)
The Original RAMP used “miracles” instead of manuscripts. The manuscripts detail the miracles, so there is a lot of overlap there. And just recently a new edition of Lee Strobel’s The Case for Christ was published and it contains a treasure house of information on this topic.
I just recently received a link for another look at archeology.
Let’s take a quick look at Miracles as a proof for God, Jesus, and the Bible. Miracles involve a supernatural intervention into somebody’s daily life–or even death in the case of some, like Lazarus. The question, then is how do we know that these are not just fables or invented stories? Back to the earlier comments, particularly the manuscripts. These reports were written during the lifetimes of the witnesses.
One of my favorites is 1 Corinthians 15:6:
Then He appeared to over 500 brothers at one time; most of them are still alive, but some have fallen asleep.
Notice Paul’s qualifier. This does two things. First, it confirms that this epistle was written in the time frame of AD 50-55, because some people who were there about AD 35 were still present. The critics claiming that it was written 100 years later are out to lunch.
Second, this is another internal confirmation of the veracity of the report. If there are living witnesses, it is hard to promulgate a myth, especially such an outlandish one as a dead person being seen alive.
The other miracles ranging from changing water to wine; walking on water; healing the sick, lame, blind, and deaf; and even raising the dead were never denied or refuted by witnesses. Even the Jewish leaders admitted that He had done miracles, but attributed them to demonic powers. (Matthew 9, Matthew 12, and Mark 3)The two options become clear when the recipients of the miracles are repeatedly advised to “worship God” after receiving a miracle.
Combining the miracles with the manuscript evidence and confirmation produces a compelling and conclusive result. Adding the two times that God spoke from heaven concerning Jesus makes this a very difficult proof to logically and rationally deny.
Matthew 9 Particularly vs. 34
Matthew 12 Particularly vs. 24
Mark 3 Particularly vs.22
Matthew 3:17 and 17:5
Sunday, September 4, 2016
The Twelve
The Twelve
There are some web sites that seem to be dedicated to exposing errors and/or contradictions in the Bible. They are usually very simplistic arguments and simple explanations. I do not typically peruse them as it is a waste of time. But I do read the Bible very carefully and critically. I do not want to have some guy point something out to me that I do not already know and have an answer to.
The good news is, that there are no objections that cannot be answered. But some have taken a lot of time on somebody’s part to get the answer for me. I have a few of my own. Here is one.
1 Corinthians 15 is the classic statement of the Gospel.
3 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5 and that He appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve.
Christ died–according to the Scriptures. He was buried and was raised on the third day–according to the Scriptures. Notice the source. The Scriptures both predicted and announced these things. The veracity and reliability of the Scriptures is a key component in the Gospel.
Then he appeared to Peter (Cephas) and then to the twelve. This would have been Sunday sometime. Whoops! Did you just make a slip, Paul? The twelve? Wasn’t Judas dead at his own hand? Was this just a simple oversight or did Paul have a senior moment? There were only eleven. And Thomas was missing that night. John points that out. (See below) It was only ten of the apostles. This is getting more “seniory and seniory.”
Paul could have been using the term “the twelve” for the body of disciples, regardless of how many were actually present. Mark calls them the eleven. And Luke does too, in Chapter 24 which we will examine later. And later on, Peter appointed Matthias, so there were twelve.
But that ignores the fact that Paul was probably the one who was slated to take the place. (Some scholars believe this. You can decide. (Itdoughmatter. My little brother popularized that at home when discussing things important to me but not necessarily to anyone else. We did not hear of Matthias after that.)
But, technically there were only ten there. Is the generic explanation enough? Let’s go back and check the context. (Who ever thought of that?) Recall the story in Luke 24 of two guys going to Emmaus on Sunday evening. A stranger joined them and later they recognized Him as Jesus. They hustled back to Jerusalem, a distance of 19 or 20 miles, to tell the disciples.
33 And they got up that very hour and returned to Jerusalem, and found gathered together the eleven (See, I told you.) and those who were with them, 34 saying, “The Lord has really risen and has appeared to Simon.” 35 They began to relate their experiences on the road and how He was recognized by them in the breaking of the bread.
36 While they were telling these things, He Himself stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be to you.”
Luke even says that there were more than just the twelve, or the eleven, or what ever. So what is the deal? Is it a big thing? No, but is it right?
Let’s think. Ten were gathered and the two, only one of whom was named, entered and astounded them with more reports of “alive sightings.” At first the ten disbelieved, then Jesus stood in their midst. How many were there? Ten originals and Cleopas and Mr. No Name. That makes 12. Paul wasn’t wrong, any way you look at it.
Either it was the generic name for the guys, or the actual number of Christ “seers.” Even the smallest details come out right. Is that important? It is when the Infallible God is dictating or inspiring the message. He makes no mistakes.
We can count on it. Even down to the smallest point. Jesus said, “Jot and tittle.” He is watching the sparrows. And He is watching me, counting the tittles.
Mark 16:14
14 Afterward He appeared to the eleven themselves as they were reclining at the table; and He reproached them for their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they had not believed those who had seen Him after He had risen.
John 20
19 So when it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and when the doors were shut where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and *said to them, “Peace be with you.” 20 And when He had said this, He showed them both His hands and His side. The disciples then rejoiced when they saw the Lord. 21 So Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you; as the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” 22 And when He had said this, He breathed on them and *said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23 If you forgive the sins of any, their sins have been forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they have been retained.”
24 But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came.
There are some web sites that seem to be dedicated to exposing errors and/or contradictions in the Bible. They are usually very simplistic arguments and simple explanations. I do not typically peruse them as it is a waste of time. But I do read the Bible very carefully and critically. I do not want to have some guy point something out to me that I do not already know and have an answer to.
The good news is, that there are no objections that cannot be answered. But some have taken a lot of time on somebody’s part to get the answer for me. I have a few of my own. Here is one.
1 Corinthians 15 is the classic statement of the Gospel.
3 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5 and that He appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve.
Christ died–according to the Scriptures. He was buried and was raised on the third day–according to the Scriptures. Notice the source. The Scriptures both predicted and announced these things. The veracity and reliability of the Scriptures is a key component in the Gospel.
Then he appeared to Peter (Cephas) and then to the twelve. This would have been Sunday sometime. Whoops! Did you just make a slip, Paul? The twelve? Wasn’t Judas dead at his own hand? Was this just a simple oversight or did Paul have a senior moment? There were only eleven. And Thomas was missing that night. John points that out. (See below) It was only ten of the apostles. This is getting more “seniory and seniory.”
Paul could have been using the term “the twelve” for the body of disciples, regardless of how many were actually present. Mark calls them the eleven. And Luke does too, in Chapter 24 which we will examine later. And later on, Peter appointed Matthias, so there were twelve.
But that ignores the fact that Paul was probably the one who was slated to take the place. (Some scholars believe this. You can decide. (Itdoughmatter. My little brother popularized that at home when discussing things important to me but not necessarily to anyone else. We did not hear of Matthias after that.)
But, technically there were only ten there. Is the generic explanation enough? Let’s go back and check the context. (Who ever thought of that?) Recall the story in Luke 24 of two guys going to Emmaus on Sunday evening. A stranger joined them and later they recognized Him as Jesus. They hustled back to Jerusalem, a distance of 19 or 20 miles, to tell the disciples.
33 And they got up that very hour and returned to Jerusalem, and found gathered together the eleven (See, I told you.) and those who were with them, 34 saying, “The Lord has really risen and has appeared to Simon.” 35 They began to relate their experiences on the road and how He was recognized by them in the breaking of the bread.
36 While they were telling these things, He Himself stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be to you.”
Luke even says that there were more than just the twelve, or the eleven, or what ever. So what is the deal? Is it a big thing? No, but is it right?
Let’s think. Ten were gathered and the two, only one of whom was named, entered and astounded them with more reports of “alive sightings.” At first the ten disbelieved, then Jesus stood in their midst. How many were there? Ten originals and Cleopas and Mr. No Name. That makes 12. Paul wasn’t wrong, any way you look at it.
Either it was the generic name for the guys, or the actual number of Christ “seers.” Even the smallest details come out right. Is that important? It is when the Infallible God is dictating or inspiring the message. He makes no mistakes.
We can count on it. Even down to the smallest point. Jesus said, “Jot and tittle.” He is watching the sparrows. And He is watching me, counting the tittles.
Mark 16:14
14 Afterward He appeared to the eleven themselves as they were reclining at the table; and He reproached them for their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they had not believed those who had seen Him after He had risen.
John 20
19 So when it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and when the doors were shut where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and *said to them, “Peace be with you.” 20 And when He had said this, He showed them both His hands and His side. The disciples then rejoiced when they saw the Lord. 21 So Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you; as the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” 22 And when He had said this, He breathed on them and *said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23 If you forgive the sins of any, their sins have been forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they have been retained.”
24 But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came.
More on R (RAMP)
More on RAMP
We looked at the arguments for the God and the Bible earlier. Here is another perspective on the Resurrection. (R of the RAMP argument.) Two included below.
One theory is that the disciples did steal the body and concocted the story of resurrection, carrying the deception to their graves. We already discussed that as pretty preposterous for two reasons. First, it is highly unlikely fact that people who knew the story was false would persist in claiming it under torture and even death.
Second the sheer number of people involved was over 500 different individuals. Just for them to not inadvertently slip sometime in the next 20 or 30 or more years is pretty unlikely. And the temptation to “spill” the whole story on their deathbed would certainly have led to some leaks.
Consider a scenario that will help to clarify the situation. Two fairly prominent ball players got kicked out of games on Saturday. For our scenario, let’s have the guys change jerseys and helmets with another player and return to the field. (We will have smoked face plates to hide their identity.) Now one of these players makes a stupendous play and his team wins the game.
How long do you think the “secret” would remain undiscovered? His teammates and coaches would know what happened. Some of the fans who know the team really well would probably recognize the player, even without seeing his face. Would the substitution be concealed for very long? We all know the answer, even if there is no life and death issue involved.
This simple analogy reveals the futility of the disciples trying to either substitute a new “messiah” or even hide the death of the old one and pretend that He is alive. The idea is too preposterous to even consider. And oh yes, this scheme was hatched in less than 72 hours by a group of terrified and cowardly survivors.
The only way our story above could survive is if the “substitute” really was as talented as the ejected player, kept his own jersey, and utilized his opportunity to show off his talents. That has happened on several occasions. A “key” player went down for some reason and his backup took over and was never replaced.
The disciples did not have a backup “Messiah,” so their story had to be reality. The miracle working Messiah really did come to life and walk among them for 40 days. They were so instilled with courage and passion that they willingly went to their deaths proclaiming the story.
It is too outlandish and has too many participants to be other than true. He is alive.
We looked at the arguments for the God and the Bible earlier. Here is another perspective on the Resurrection. (R of the RAMP argument.) Two included below.
One theory is that the disciples did steal the body and concocted the story of resurrection, carrying the deception to their graves. We already discussed that as pretty preposterous for two reasons. First, it is highly unlikely fact that people who knew the story was false would persist in claiming it under torture and even death.
Second the sheer number of people involved was over 500 different individuals. Just for them to not inadvertently slip sometime in the next 20 or 30 or more years is pretty unlikely. And the temptation to “spill” the whole story on their deathbed would certainly have led to some leaks.
Consider a scenario that will help to clarify the situation. Two fairly prominent ball players got kicked out of games on Saturday. For our scenario, let’s have the guys change jerseys and helmets with another player and return to the field. (We will have smoked face plates to hide their identity.) Now one of these players makes a stupendous play and his team wins the game.
How long do you think the “secret” would remain undiscovered? His teammates and coaches would know what happened. Some of the fans who know the team really well would probably recognize the player, even without seeing his face. Would the substitution be concealed for very long? We all know the answer, even if there is no life and death issue involved.
This simple analogy reveals the futility of the disciples trying to either substitute a new “messiah” or even hide the death of the old one and pretend that He is alive. The idea is too preposterous to even consider. And oh yes, this scheme was hatched in less than 72 hours by a group of terrified and cowardly survivors.
The only way our story above could survive is if the “substitute” really was as talented as the ejected player, kept his own jersey, and utilized his opportunity to show off his talents. That has happened on several occasions. A “key” player went down for some reason and his backup took over and was never replaced.
The disciples did not have a backup “Messiah,” so their story had to be reality. The miracle working Messiah really did come to life and walk among them for 40 days. They were so instilled with courage and passion that they willingly went to their deaths proclaiming the story.
It is too outlandish and has too many participants to be other than true. He is alive.
Thursday, September 1, 2016
Three Minute Drill Extended--RAMP This follows the one below.
Three Minute Drill Extended--RAMP
Sometimes we get an extended version of the three minute drill discussed earlier. This may not be suitable to a final death bed scenario, but we often face people for the last time. Make good use of very opportunity.
A second answer may be that they think that they will get a second chance after they die. That, again is quickly answered with the same logic. The Bible says that there is no second chance. If I, and the Bible are wrong, and there is a second chance, both of us are again in the same boat, but for good this time. I will not need the second chance, and you can make it. But, if you are wrong, and there is no second chance, then this is the only chance we have. Why risk it? If you choose now, you win either way.
The answer of not believing in God (Jesus) or the Bible can be answered fairly quickly in more extended circumstances than our three minute drill. “I don’t believe in God, or Jesus, or the Bible. There is no reason to do so.”
The final statement is crucial in the argumentative process. If they simply refuse to believe, period, there is no reason to debate. They are adamant and at this point, it is probably not possible to “alienate” them. I have a test to determine that state.
(Not quotes from here on, but it is the argument.) You do not believe in God. Is that because you do not know the evidence for the existence of God, or you do know it and refuse to accept it? In other words, are you ignorant or stupid? (This is the extreme end of the argument. Smile when you say it, and go on the explanation quickly.)
IF you don’t know the evidence, are ignorant of it, I can provide a four prong argument in a few minutes to prove that God, and Jesus exist and the Bible is true. If you refuse to accept the evidence after it is presented, then you are refusing truth or fact or reality. That is not a smart position for a rational, thinking person.
May I go on? There are four phases of this argument for God. They are explained by the word, RAMP. R is for resurrection. A is for archaeology. M is for manuscripts. And P is for prophesy. These four combine to produce a compelling case to believe.
R is for resurrection. Only one belief system in the world hinges on the death and resurrection of its major teacher or leader. In fact all of the leaders have died, except for some new ones springing up. But their leader will also die and join the parade of dead leaders. Except for one.
Jesus came to earth, lived and died, and came back to life. He even predicted that He would do so. That singular incident in history sets Him apart from every other belief concept. All of the others celebrate the tomb of their dear departed leader. None of them claim that he is alive, in any other sense than a spiritual one. Jesus is alive and that is the distinctive that no other sect or belief even approaches.
The proof or documentation of this is critical and foundational in any consideration of the God, Jesus, and Bible question. Some claim that the resurrection of Jesus was fabricated or is merely a myth perpetrated to transform Him into a deity. Nothing persuades like evidence.
First, there were eye witnesses to His being alive after being dead. (Incidentally, let’s just spike the gun that “he swooned and recovered.” The Romans were adept killers. The final thrust through the side punctured the heart and death was demonstrated by the effluvium from the wound. Medically, a critically injured body subjected to the conditions of the tomb would get worse and result in lingering, inevitable death. A sedative may have been administered surreptitiously to mimic death, but the spear thrust into the heart circumvented that attempt to cheat the cross.)
We will discuss the documentation later, but for now will consider the witnesses. (This is apocryphal from Jim. You can skip down three paragraphs to “The Marys” if you want to stick with Biblical facts.) I think the soldiers saw Him first. The fact that they went to the religious leaders instead of or before going to their commander makes me think that they knew something extraordinary, even supernatural, had occurred.
Jesus did not need the stone to be removed. It was moved so that the witnesses could get into the tomb. The earthquake may have accompanied the angel moving the stone. Roman soldiers did not sleep on duty. But even if they did, imagine the dim light of dawn breaking and they see “something.”
Think Jesus greeted them? “Top o the morning to ya, boys!” He would not have ignored them. He had good news! They took off like the proverbial bats out of a hot spot (not free internet access) and went to the only logical place to get an explanation. The temple. I think that the four (probably) of them saw Jesus.
The Marys saw the empty tomb. Peter and John did too. Mary M talked to Jesus. The two guys on the road to Emmaus did too. (Luke 24) They started to eat dinner with Him before recognizing Him.
Then they hightailed it back to Jerusalem to the ten remaining disciples (since Thomas was gone). Then Jesus met them there. Paul clears it up for us in 1 Corinthians 15. He included a group of 500 who saw Him simultaneously.
Now before you trot out the “eye witnesses are notoriously fallible” objection, notice the extreme number. There were at least 515 eye witnesses. Not much chance for mass hallucination there.
In fact, one commentator suggested that the resurrection of Jesus was the best documented event in ancient history. Others have extended that comparison up to at least the 1700's but let’s not get greedy. We will address the documentation later, but suffice it to say, that the proof that Jesus rose from the dead is more believable than that Pilate ever lived. Or even Julius Caesar. If you deny Jesus is alive, you cannot logically or reasonably accept the inferior proof of any other event in history until at least the end of the middle ages.
And out of those witnesses, particularly the disciples, none ever recanted their story. Now it is possible for someone who THINKS something is true to die for it. But for someone who KNOWS something is false, to die for it is pretty far fetched. And for a large number of these knowing false witnesses, even just 12 if we restrict it to the apostles and Paul, to maintain the fabrication in the face of persecution and death is unbelievable.
All of them except John died for their participation in the story. And John did suffer tremendously, even though short of death. Yet in the AD 90's, when he would have been at least 80 years old, he was still pretty convinced that what he saw was true. Read the three Johns and Revelation. The chance of false doctrines creeping into these records is virtually impossible. The record is compelling. Jesus did rise from the dead.
R–Resurrection. A is for archaeology. We will focus on Biblical archaeology and pinpoint the manuscript evidence for Jesus in the M discussion.
Archaeology has unearthed literally millions of artifacts that verify the Biblical account of events and personnel from Genesis on. An archaeologist named William F. Albright was determined to prove the Bible wrong and was one of the first professionals to begin searching Biblical archaeology. Much to his surprise, and our benefit, everything that he uncovered verified the Biblical accounts. He became a believer.
And since the early 1900's enormous amounts of time and resources have been directed to excavating Biblical sites. And every one, every one of the discoveries has verified the Bible. There has not been one verified contradiction. Here are a couple of easy ones.
One I like best, is the argument, probably long forgotten now, that Moses could not have written the first five books of the Bible, because the Egyptian culture of that time did not have a written language. Boom! Did that argument ever blow up in someone’s face.
I also like Darius, the Mede. There is still some controversy about him, but even the fact of his existence was doubted, despite the fact that Daniel named him. Archaeological evidence confirmed that there WAS a Darius the Mede during Daniel’s time. We just do not know exactly who he was. The name was possibly a title, like Pharaoh, instead of his given name. Don’t confuse him with the Darius who was ruling during the time of Ezra. But I digress.
Archaeology has not uncovered one item that contradicts the Bible. But has literally produced train loads of confirmation for events and people.
Manuscripts give us the M. This will also support some of the earlier comments. Manuscripts are important, because we do not have an original copy of any ancient historical work. So how far from the original is the copy that we have? Or how many times has it been copied, with a chance to introduce variations?
Many arguments about the veracity of the accounts of Jesus being alive, the miracles He preformed, and the things He said are based upon this “drift” in the manuscript theory. This is true for the major ancient writers. Copies of Plato’s works are dated over 1200 years after he wrote them. Aristotle is over 1400 years. Julius Caesar has a 900 year gap. For all we know, Julie C was a household slave who wrote fanciful, imaginary novels about himself and they got interpreted into history. (Probably not, but you get the point.)
But the manuscripts about Jesus, mainly the four Gospels, are separated by only decades in some cases from the originals. No full manuscripts exist that early, but fragments do, and the earliest full manuscripts are from about AD 130-150. And these are copies, so the originals had to predate them. It is quite possible that some of the original witnesses had communicated to their descendants these stories and the manuscripts verified them.
For instance, assume someone claims that John F. Kennedy survived and recovered from his wounds in Dallas. JFK wrote a memoir and added the chapter to his “Profiles in Courage.” I would object to this because I was here in 1963 and he did not survive. I did not personally examine his body, but I have heard witnesses who did. He did not get out of Dallas alive. Anyone who claims that would be contradicted immediately, vigorously, and consistently.
First, some theories claim that the stories were handed down for hundreds of years and “grew.” The originals were not written hundreds of years later but between about AD 50-60 (Mark/Peter) up to AD 90-95 (John).
If the Jesus stories were fabricated “later” they would have had a very small window of time in which to complete that action. That would have had to happen between the time of the eyewitnesses, and the writing of the originals and the over 500 witnesses had to died and their testimony been forgotten and our first fragments. Otherwise there would be contradictions to the stories that arose later. Oops, no window or a lot of “drift” had to happen. It would have had to have been in 20 or 30 years. And the manuscripts remained essentially unchanged since.
All of the documents are consistent. The oldest ones confirm that the newer ones still say the same thing. The proximity to the originals and the sheer volume of manuscripts confirm that the stories are accurate. (Note: There are over 24,000 New Testament manuscripts and 5600 are actually in the Greek of the New Testament. The agreement is above 90% and none of the variants are critical. They might use “the Lord” instead of “Jesus.” No change in meaning of key issues exists in any of the 24,000 manuscripts.)
Even the Old Testament accounts are confirmed by later discoveries. The Dead Sea Scrolls confirm the contents of several Old Testament books, especially Isaiah. The reliability of these messages is beyond rational dispute.
The Manuscripts confirm the validity of the New Testament and indeed the entire Bible. That leaves P–Prophesy. God claimed that He could and would tell things that would happen before they did. He did.
These prophesies are specific, detailed pre-statements of events in the future. The Scripture is filled with them. Start with Isaiah 46:9, 10
For I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is no one like Me, 10 Declaring the end from the beginning, And from ancient times things which have not been done, Saying, ‘My purpose will be established, And I will accomplish all My good pleasure’;
The Scripture is filled with examples of the Lord predicting that something would happen before it did. There are over 353 prophesies about Jesus alone and over two thousand others that have been fulfilled in minute, intricate detail. And there are a lot more “just waiting.” But I digress.
God announced that He would predict history and He has done so, and in fact continues to do so. The return of Israel to their land is one that has happened in our slice of history. The “prophesy” plank of the ramp completes a compelling argument for the Bible.
These four major areas produce overwhelming proof that there is a God; Jesus did what He claimed; and the Bible is a reliable account of these actions and ideas. Now, understanding what we have just covered, is there any reason that you should not commit your life to Christ now?
Sometimes we get an extended version of the three minute drill discussed earlier. This may not be suitable to a final death bed scenario, but we often face people for the last time. Make good use of very opportunity.
A second answer may be that they think that they will get a second chance after they die. That, again is quickly answered with the same logic. The Bible says that there is no second chance. If I, and the Bible are wrong, and there is a second chance, both of us are again in the same boat, but for good this time. I will not need the second chance, and you can make it. But, if you are wrong, and there is no second chance, then this is the only chance we have. Why risk it? If you choose now, you win either way.
The answer of not believing in God (Jesus) or the Bible can be answered fairly quickly in more extended circumstances than our three minute drill. “I don’t believe in God, or Jesus, or the Bible. There is no reason to do so.”
The final statement is crucial in the argumentative process. If they simply refuse to believe, period, there is no reason to debate. They are adamant and at this point, it is probably not possible to “alienate” them. I have a test to determine that state.
(Not quotes from here on, but it is the argument.) You do not believe in God. Is that because you do not know the evidence for the existence of God, or you do know it and refuse to accept it? In other words, are you ignorant or stupid? (This is the extreme end of the argument. Smile when you say it, and go on the explanation quickly.)
IF you don’t know the evidence, are ignorant of it, I can provide a four prong argument in a few minutes to prove that God, and Jesus exist and the Bible is true. If you refuse to accept the evidence after it is presented, then you are refusing truth or fact or reality. That is not a smart position for a rational, thinking person.
May I go on? There are four phases of this argument for God. They are explained by the word, RAMP. R is for resurrection. A is for archaeology. M is for manuscripts. And P is for prophesy. These four combine to produce a compelling case to believe.
R is for resurrection. Only one belief system in the world hinges on the death and resurrection of its major teacher or leader. In fact all of the leaders have died, except for some new ones springing up. But their leader will also die and join the parade of dead leaders. Except for one.
Jesus came to earth, lived and died, and came back to life. He even predicted that He would do so. That singular incident in history sets Him apart from every other belief concept. All of the others celebrate the tomb of their dear departed leader. None of them claim that he is alive, in any other sense than a spiritual one. Jesus is alive and that is the distinctive that no other sect or belief even approaches.
The proof or documentation of this is critical and foundational in any consideration of the God, Jesus, and Bible question. Some claim that the resurrection of Jesus was fabricated or is merely a myth perpetrated to transform Him into a deity. Nothing persuades like evidence.
First, there were eye witnesses to His being alive after being dead. (Incidentally, let’s just spike the gun that “he swooned and recovered.” The Romans were adept killers. The final thrust through the side punctured the heart and death was demonstrated by the effluvium from the wound. Medically, a critically injured body subjected to the conditions of the tomb would get worse and result in lingering, inevitable death. A sedative may have been administered surreptitiously to mimic death, but the spear thrust into the heart circumvented that attempt to cheat the cross.)
We will discuss the documentation later, but for now will consider the witnesses. (This is apocryphal from Jim. You can skip down three paragraphs to “The Marys” if you want to stick with Biblical facts.) I think the soldiers saw Him first. The fact that they went to the religious leaders instead of or before going to their commander makes me think that they knew something extraordinary, even supernatural, had occurred.
Jesus did not need the stone to be removed. It was moved so that the witnesses could get into the tomb. The earthquake may have accompanied the angel moving the stone. Roman soldiers did not sleep on duty. But even if they did, imagine the dim light of dawn breaking and they see “something.”
Think Jesus greeted them? “Top o the morning to ya, boys!” He would not have ignored them. He had good news! They took off like the proverbial bats out of a hot spot (not free internet access) and went to the only logical place to get an explanation. The temple. I think that the four (probably) of them saw Jesus.
The Marys saw the empty tomb. Peter and John did too. Mary M talked to Jesus. The two guys on the road to Emmaus did too. (Luke 24) They started to eat dinner with Him before recognizing Him.
Then they hightailed it back to Jerusalem to the ten remaining disciples (since Thomas was gone). Then Jesus met them there. Paul clears it up for us in 1 Corinthians 15. He included a group of 500 who saw Him simultaneously.
Now before you trot out the “eye witnesses are notoriously fallible” objection, notice the extreme number. There were at least 515 eye witnesses. Not much chance for mass hallucination there.
In fact, one commentator suggested that the resurrection of Jesus was the best documented event in ancient history. Others have extended that comparison up to at least the 1700's but let’s not get greedy. We will address the documentation later, but suffice it to say, that the proof that Jesus rose from the dead is more believable than that Pilate ever lived. Or even Julius Caesar. If you deny Jesus is alive, you cannot logically or reasonably accept the inferior proof of any other event in history until at least the end of the middle ages.
And out of those witnesses, particularly the disciples, none ever recanted their story. Now it is possible for someone who THINKS something is true to die for it. But for someone who KNOWS something is false, to die for it is pretty far fetched. And for a large number of these knowing false witnesses, even just 12 if we restrict it to the apostles and Paul, to maintain the fabrication in the face of persecution and death is unbelievable.
All of them except John died for their participation in the story. And John did suffer tremendously, even though short of death. Yet in the AD 90's, when he would have been at least 80 years old, he was still pretty convinced that what he saw was true. Read the three Johns and Revelation. The chance of false doctrines creeping into these records is virtually impossible. The record is compelling. Jesus did rise from the dead.
R–Resurrection. A is for archaeology. We will focus on Biblical archaeology and pinpoint the manuscript evidence for Jesus in the M discussion.
Archaeology has unearthed literally millions of artifacts that verify the Biblical account of events and personnel from Genesis on. An archaeologist named William F. Albright was determined to prove the Bible wrong and was one of the first professionals to begin searching Biblical archaeology. Much to his surprise, and our benefit, everything that he uncovered verified the Biblical accounts. He became a believer.
And since the early 1900's enormous amounts of time and resources have been directed to excavating Biblical sites. And every one, every one of the discoveries has verified the Bible. There has not been one verified contradiction. Here are a couple of easy ones.
One I like best, is the argument, probably long forgotten now, that Moses could not have written the first five books of the Bible, because the Egyptian culture of that time did not have a written language. Boom! Did that argument ever blow up in someone’s face.
I also like Darius, the Mede. There is still some controversy about him, but even the fact of his existence was doubted, despite the fact that Daniel named him. Archaeological evidence confirmed that there WAS a Darius the Mede during Daniel’s time. We just do not know exactly who he was. The name was possibly a title, like Pharaoh, instead of his given name. Don’t confuse him with the Darius who was ruling during the time of Ezra. But I digress.
Archaeology has not uncovered one item that contradicts the Bible. But has literally produced train loads of confirmation for events and people.
Manuscripts give us the M. This will also support some of the earlier comments. Manuscripts are important, because we do not have an original copy of any ancient historical work. So how far from the original is the copy that we have? Or how many times has it been copied, with a chance to introduce variations?
Many arguments about the veracity of the accounts of Jesus being alive, the miracles He preformed, and the things He said are based upon this “drift” in the manuscript theory. This is true for the major ancient writers. Copies of Plato’s works are dated over 1200 years after he wrote them. Aristotle is over 1400 years. Julius Caesar has a 900 year gap. For all we know, Julie C was a household slave who wrote fanciful, imaginary novels about himself and they got interpreted into history. (Probably not, but you get the point.)
But the manuscripts about Jesus, mainly the four Gospels, are separated by only decades in some cases from the originals. No full manuscripts exist that early, but fragments do, and the earliest full manuscripts are from about AD 130-150. And these are copies, so the originals had to predate them. It is quite possible that some of the original witnesses had communicated to their descendants these stories and the manuscripts verified them.
For instance, assume someone claims that John F. Kennedy survived and recovered from his wounds in Dallas. JFK wrote a memoir and added the chapter to his “Profiles in Courage.” I would object to this because I was here in 1963 and he did not survive. I did not personally examine his body, but I have heard witnesses who did. He did not get out of Dallas alive. Anyone who claims that would be contradicted immediately, vigorously, and consistently.
First, some theories claim that the stories were handed down for hundreds of years and “grew.” The originals were not written hundreds of years later but between about AD 50-60 (Mark/Peter) up to AD 90-95 (John).
If the Jesus stories were fabricated “later” they would have had a very small window of time in which to complete that action. That would have had to happen between the time of the eyewitnesses, and the writing of the originals and the over 500 witnesses had to died and their testimony been forgotten and our first fragments. Otherwise there would be contradictions to the stories that arose later. Oops, no window or a lot of “drift” had to happen. It would have had to have been in 20 or 30 years. And the manuscripts remained essentially unchanged since.
All of the documents are consistent. The oldest ones confirm that the newer ones still say the same thing. The proximity to the originals and the sheer volume of manuscripts confirm that the stories are accurate. (Note: There are over 24,000 New Testament manuscripts and 5600 are actually in the Greek of the New Testament. The agreement is above 90% and none of the variants are critical. They might use “the Lord” instead of “Jesus.” No change in meaning of key issues exists in any of the 24,000 manuscripts.)
Even the Old Testament accounts are confirmed by later discoveries. The Dead Sea Scrolls confirm the contents of several Old Testament books, especially Isaiah. The reliability of these messages is beyond rational dispute.
The Manuscripts confirm the validity of the New Testament and indeed the entire Bible. That leaves P–Prophesy. God claimed that He could and would tell things that would happen before they did. He did.
These prophesies are specific, detailed pre-statements of events in the future. The Scripture is filled with them. Start with Isaiah 46:9, 10
For I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is no one like Me, 10 Declaring the end from the beginning, And from ancient times things which have not been done, Saying, ‘My purpose will be established, And I will accomplish all My good pleasure’;
The Scripture is filled with examples of the Lord predicting that something would happen before it did. There are over 353 prophesies about Jesus alone and over two thousand others that have been fulfilled in minute, intricate detail. And there are a lot more “just waiting.” But I digress.
God announced that He would predict history and He has done so, and in fact continues to do so. The return of Israel to their land is one that has happened in our slice of history. The “prophesy” plank of the ramp completes a compelling argument for the Bible.
These four major areas produce overwhelming proof that there is a God; Jesus did what He claimed; and the Bible is a reliable account of these actions and ideas. Now, understanding what we have just covered, is there any reason that you should not commit your life to Christ now?
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