What is it about your spouse that first caused you to love him or her? Was it who he or she was, or what he or she did? I think this is an interesting question. Can the answer be both? Michael Barber says, “A man might reveal his feelings for a woman by leaving her a bouquet of roses. We have all heard the phrase ‘actions speak louder than words,’ so we know that through our actions we truly reveal ourselves to other people. At the same time, we also understand another persons’ actions much better once we come to truly know that person. The woman who received the roses will understand more clearly the other actions of the man who gave them to her. Before he gave them to her, she might have noticed that he acted quirky around her, but now she realizes that he is nervous because he cares for her. She knows why he blushes, why he laughs so hard at all her jokes, and why he is always offering to do her favors. After he reveals his heart to her, she can better understand the things that he does.”1
If you want to truly know someone, watch what they do. If you want to know why people do what they do, get to know them. This is also true of God. If you want to know who God is, look at what He has done. If you want to know why God does what He does, study who He is.
Ladies, if your husband sends you flowers, what does it usually mean? For some it might be an expression of deepest love. For others, it might mean that the husband has messed up big time. Based on how much the wife knows her husband she will either be appreciative or suspicious.
I hate to break it to you fellas, but rarely do flowers and chocolates get us off the hook if we have done something bone headed. Our wives know us too well for that. Our actions are usually interpreted in light of who we are.
Let’s think about the Lord in those terms. How do you interpret the greatest gift ever given? The heavenly Father sent His only begotten Son to die a horrible death on a cross to be the atonement for our sins. He lived perfectly and, as representative head of humanity, became the mediator of The New Covenant so that in Him, we might be ushered into the Presence of the Father. What do God's saving actions teach us about Him? God is love – perfect self giving, self-sacrificing love. Because of Jesus’ passion we can be adopted into God’s family. God becomes our Father – and we share in His divine nature.
When I say the word “economy,” what comes to your mind? Of course we think of the current recession our country and the world are enduring. We think of commerce and business. In Scriptural terms, the word economy means God’s Fatherly plan. We may think of God's economy as His saving acts throughout history. Paul uses the term "economy" in 1 Timothy 1:4.
Theology and economy are different, but linked. Theology is the study of who God is. If you want to understand theology, you must study what God does – God’s economy. If you want to understand why God does what He does - economy, you must be familiar with God’s Character – that is, theology.
John 3:16 is an excellent place to test this idea. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that anyone who believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
First – why did God send His only begotten Son? The answer is found in the first sentence:“For God so loved the world.” We see that God acts out of His love for the world. God is love. That is great place to start theologically.
Second, what did God do because He is love? “He sent His only Son!” This is God’s economy - His plan to redeem humankind.
If you want to know God – look at what He does. If you want to know why God does what He does – learn who He is.
So, as we conclude, here is your final exam. What word describes our understanding of who God is? THEOLOGY
What word describes God’s saving actions on our behalf – His plan to redeem mankind? ECONOMY
Our country needs an economic recovery, but I am not talking about business. We need to learn HIStory. For when we learn the Truth of God’s acts, we will understand our Lord even better.
1. Michael Barber, Singing in the Reign p. 32-33
Friday, June 12, 2009
Monday, April 20, 2009
Apply Within
When you think of “The Gospel,” what comes to your mind? What is the “Good News” proclaimed by the Scriptures for the salvation of mankind? Because I am a pastor’s son I grew up hearing stories about Jesus. We attended Bible study and worship every time the doors were open. In those formative years I was taught that the Gospel consisted of the following:
Jesus died on the cross and on the third day rose again. In doing this, He paid the price for our sins and if we believe in Him, when we die, we will be raised like Jesus to live in heaven forever.
Does that match what you were taught? While those are indeed vital components of the Gospel, there is another component to the Gospel message that is not so readily taught. This concept was central to the Hebrew understanding of sacrifice and it is spelled out for us in the pages of the New Testament. But somehow this important aspect of the Gospel has been minimized as the centuries have passed. In this article we will revisit this concept and I pray that it will bring God’s great plan of salvation history into clearer focus.
In order to present this most meaningfully we really need to look back at the Old Covenant concept of sacrifice. Of all the sacrifices offered by the Hebrew people, none held more significance than the one offered on the Day of Atonement. On that day, the High Priest would take part in the ceremonial killing of a bull to atone for his own sins and then sacrifice a goat for Israel’s sins. Thomas Nash writes, “He would apply the blood of the bull and one goat as sin offerings to Yahweh’s mercy seat in the Holy of Holies.” The Day of Atonement was the only day that the High Priest could enter the Most Holy Place – a room deep in the temple curtained off from everyone but the High Priest and closely guarded by the Levitical Priests. Note here that the sacrifice consisted of two parts and was not complete until both actions had been taken. First the sacrifice was made – the animal was killed and his blood collected. Second, the High Priest would take the animal's blood into the Holy of Holies and apply the blood to God’s mercy seat. Both aspects are vital for the sacrificial mandate of God to be fulfilled.
The fact that this Old Covenant sacrifice had to be repeated every year demonstrates its inability to atone satisfactorily for Israel’s sins. But, the final sacrifice was coming as the Old Covenant was fulfilled in Jesus and His ushering in of the New and everlasting Covenant. Consider how Jesus’ sacrifice follows in the pattern shown to us in the Old Testament, particularly Leviticus 16. We will see that Jesus did become the atoning sacrifice and His blood was spilled. But, remember, the blood must be applied within the Temple – in the most Holy Place. Let’s turn to Hebrews 9:11-12 to see if this is what happens.
11When Christ came as high priest of the good things that are already here, he went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle that is not man-made, that is to say, not a part of this creation. 12He did not enter by means of the blood of goats and calves; but he entered the Most Holy Place once for all by his own blood, having obtained eternal redemption.
Jesus enters the Heavenly Temple and the Heavenly Holy of Holies and applies His blood to God’s mercy seat. He is there even now, mediating the new covenant. This helps explain John’s vision in Revelation 5:6. Jesus appears, “like a lamb as if slain.” Jesus was the sacrificial victim – the Lamb of God – but He is also the High Priest – whose ministry is that of mediating the New Covenant in the heavenly sanctuary – the ultimate Holy of Holies.
As a young Christian I was never taught the second part of Jesus’ sacrifice. We do a great job of teaching the cross and Jesus’ earthly task of dying for us was finished there. But, without the heavenly application of the blood, the sacrifice is not complete. Therefore, the resurrection and the ascension are absolutely vital. Without the ongoing priesthood of Jesus, mediating the New Covenant, the atoning sacrifice of the cross would not be available to us. The blood must be applied – to the mercy seat of God, and to our hearts. Hebrews 10:19-23 brings it all into focus:
19Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, 20by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, 21and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. 23Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.
Jesus died on the cross and on the third day rose again. In doing this, He paid the price for our sins and if we believe in Him, when we die, we will be raised like Jesus to live in heaven forever.
Does that match what you were taught? While those are indeed vital components of the Gospel, there is another component to the Gospel message that is not so readily taught. This concept was central to the Hebrew understanding of sacrifice and it is spelled out for us in the pages of the New Testament. But somehow this important aspect of the Gospel has been minimized as the centuries have passed. In this article we will revisit this concept and I pray that it will bring God’s great plan of salvation history into clearer focus.
In order to present this most meaningfully we really need to look back at the Old Covenant concept of sacrifice. Of all the sacrifices offered by the Hebrew people, none held more significance than the one offered on the Day of Atonement. On that day, the High Priest would take part in the ceremonial killing of a bull to atone for his own sins and then sacrifice a goat for Israel’s sins. Thomas Nash writes, “He would apply the blood of the bull and one goat as sin offerings to Yahweh’s mercy seat in the Holy of Holies.” The Day of Atonement was the only day that the High Priest could enter the Most Holy Place – a room deep in the temple curtained off from everyone but the High Priest and closely guarded by the Levitical Priests. Note here that the sacrifice consisted of two parts and was not complete until both actions had been taken. First the sacrifice was made – the animal was killed and his blood collected. Second, the High Priest would take the animal's blood into the Holy of Holies and apply the blood to God’s mercy seat. Both aspects are vital for the sacrificial mandate of God to be fulfilled.
The fact that this Old Covenant sacrifice had to be repeated every year demonstrates its inability to atone satisfactorily for Israel’s sins. But, the final sacrifice was coming as the Old Covenant was fulfilled in Jesus and His ushering in of the New and everlasting Covenant. Consider how Jesus’ sacrifice follows in the pattern shown to us in the Old Testament, particularly Leviticus 16. We will see that Jesus did become the atoning sacrifice and His blood was spilled. But, remember, the blood must be applied within the Temple – in the most Holy Place. Let’s turn to Hebrews 9:11-12 to see if this is what happens.
11When Christ came as high priest of the good things that are already here, he went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle that is not man-made, that is to say, not a part of this creation. 12He did not enter by means of the blood of goats and calves; but he entered the Most Holy Place once for all by his own blood, having obtained eternal redemption.
Jesus enters the Heavenly Temple and the Heavenly Holy of Holies and applies His blood to God’s mercy seat. He is there even now, mediating the new covenant. This helps explain John’s vision in Revelation 5:6. Jesus appears, “like a lamb as if slain.” Jesus was the sacrificial victim – the Lamb of God – but He is also the High Priest – whose ministry is that of mediating the New Covenant in the heavenly sanctuary – the ultimate Holy of Holies.
As a young Christian I was never taught the second part of Jesus’ sacrifice. We do a great job of teaching the cross and Jesus’ earthly task of dying for us was finished there. But, without the heavenly application of the blood, the sacrifice is not complete. Therefore, the resurrection and the ascension are absolutely vital. Without the ongoing priesthood of Jesus, mediating the New Covenant, the atoning sacrifice of the cross would not be available to us. The blood must be applied – to the mercy seat of God, and to our hearts. Hebrews 10:19-23 brings it all into focus:
19Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, 20by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, 21and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. 23Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
The Pattern for Authentic Spirituality
What is spirituality? We live in a culture that claims to be highly spiritual. For many, spirituality is an inward quest for God. Or, it is an attempt to find oneness with the life force of the universe. But for Christians, what does it mean that we are spiritual? For disciples of Jesus, spirituality is not rooted in some esoteric existential experience. Rather, it is to be found in unity with Christ. Robert Webber taught that we must "ponder and participate" in the salvific narrative of Christ. Becoming immersed in Christ means that we are taken up into HIStory - the Gospel. Further, as we are united to Christ we share in the divine nature of God (2 Peter 1:4). The Scriptures give no clearer image of this than baptism.
Spirituality centered in the concept of baptism focuses our attention not on water alone (even though there are many typologies of water and God's saving work), but on the cross and the empty tomb. Expressed simply, our spirituality may be seen in terms of "creation, fall and recreation." Obviously, God made humanity in His image at the creation. This image was broken by the sin of Adam and Eve. The subsequent curse infected all of humanity. Jesus came, as representative head of humanity, to recreate or restore us to the Edenic ideal. His sacrificial death on the cross and subsequent resurrection defeated sin, death and hell - thereby offering an antidote to the Adamic curse. Eugene Peterson said, "The Christian life...is a recovery of what was lost at the fall." Ranald McCaulay wrote similarly, "The whole purpose of the Christian life is the recovery of the original image of God." Baptismal images are evident in the creation as the spirit hovers over the waters. This typology springs to life at Jesus’ baptism – when the Spirit descended upon God's Son in that watery scene. Jesus' baptism served to identify Him with fallen humanity, and prefigure His death and resurrection.
Baptism is commended to US. Like the Eucharist, baptism is commanded by the Lord Himself which means IT IS VERY IMPORTANT. In fact, in the "Great Commission" baptism is one of two main tasks given to the Apostles as they were sent out to the world. Why is it so important? In Romans 5 and 6, Paul teaches an amazing mystery. He uses this same idea of "creation, fall, and recreation." Paul speaks of Adam's curse coming to all men and how Jesus reverses the curse. How does Paul say that we receive this restoration from Adam's rebellion? Our recreation, he declares, is found in connecting with the cross and empty tomb through baptism. In baptism we are united to Christ's death and resurrection. Webber claimed that baptism is a performative symbol. That is, it enacts what it signifies. Without Jesus' death and resurrection offered to us as we are united with Him in baptism, we would most assuredly perish under Adam's curse.
How does baptism, a one time rite, express and enact our ongoing spiritual lives rooted in Christ. We are baptized into Christ once - but we must die to self daily. Therefore the Scriptural mandate of "living out ones' baptism." This may be the easiest yet most profound way to communicate the essential truths of "creation, fall and recreation." Martin Luther concurred that the pattern of creation, fall and recreation in Christ is a worthy one by which to live. He said, "...in Baptism, every Christian has enough to study and to practice all his life. He always has enough to do to believe firmly what baptism promises and brings -- victory over death and the devil, forgiveness of sin, God's grace, the entire Christ, and the Holy Spirit with his gifts." Luther also said that baptism is to become..."the daily garment which the disciple is to wear all the time,...every day suppressing the old person and growing up in the new."
In an era when spirituality is suffering under the corrupting influences of man-made traditions and pseudo spiritual systems, we would do well to return to the ancient pattern of spirituality laid out for us in the Scriptures. Jesus said, "If you want to be my disciple you must deny yourself, take up your cross daily and follow me." This pattern is perfectly pictured in death, burial and resurrection - at Calvary and in a watery tomb.
Spirituality centered in the concept of baptism focuses our attention not on water alone (even though there are many typologies of water and God's saving work), but on the cross and the empty tomb. Expressed simply, our spirituality may be seen in terms of "creation, fall and recreation." Obviously, God made humanity in His image at the creation. This image was broken by the sin of Adam and Eve. The subsequent curse infected all of humanity. Jesus came, as representative head of humanity, to recreate or restore us to the Edenic ideal. His sacrificial death on the cross and subsequent resurrection defeated sin, death and hell - thereby offering an antidote to the Adamic curse. Eugene Peterson said, "The Christian life...is a recovery of what was lost at the fall." Ranald McCaulay wrote similarly, "The whole purpose of the Christian life is the recovery of the original image of God." Baptismal images are evident in the creation as the spirit hovers over the waters. This typology springs to life at Jesus’ baptism – when the Spirit descended upon God's Son in that watery scene. Jesus' baptism served to identify Him with fallen humanity, and prefigure His death and resurrection.
Baptism is commended to US. Like the Eucharist, baptism is commanded by the Lord Himself which means IT IS VERY IMPORTANT. In fact, in the "Great Commission" baptism is one of two main tasks given to the Apostles as they were sent out to the world. Why is it so important? In Romans 5 and 6, Paul teaches an amazing mystery. He uses this same idea of "creation, fall, and recreation." Paul speaks of Adam's curse coming to all men and how Jesus reverses the curse. How does Paul say that we receive this restoration from Adam's rebellion? Our recreation, he declares, is found in connecting with the cross and empty tomb through baptism. In baptism we are united to Christ's death and resurrection. Webber claimed that baptism is a performative symbol. That is, it enacts what it signifies. Without Jesus' death and resurrection offered to us as we are united with Him in baptism, we would most assuredly perish under Adam's curse.
How does baptism, a one time rite, express and enact our ongoing spiritual lives rooted in Christ. We are baptized into Christ once - but we must die to self daily. Therefore the Scriptural mandate of "living out ones' baptism." This may be the easiest yet most profound way to communicate the essential truths of "creation, fall and recreation." Martin Luther concurred that the pattern of creation, fall and recreation in Christ is a worthy one by which to live. He said, "...in Baptism, every Christian has enough to study and to practice all his life. He always has enough to do to believe firmly what baptism promises and brings -- victory over death and the devil, forgiveness of sin, God's grace, the entire Christ, and the Holy Spirit with his gifts." Luther also said that baptism is to become..."the daily garment which the disciple is to wear all the time,...every day suppressing the old person and growing up in the new."
In an era when spirituality is suffering under the corrupting influences of man-made traditions and pseudo spiritual systems, we would do well to return to the ancient pattern of spirituality laid out for us in the Scriptures. Jesus said, "If you want to be my disciple you must deny yourself, take up your cross daily and follow me." This pattern is perfectly pictured in death, burial and resurrection - at Calvary and in a watery tomb.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
A Frosty Face, A Birthday Bash, and A Cuddle in the Creche
Glenn Pease tells the story of a fairly typical last minute Christmas shopper. With little shopping time left, this bargain hunter was running furiously from store to store. Suddenly she became aware that the pudgy little hand of her three year old son was no longer clutched in hers. In a panic she retraced her steps and found him standing with his little nose pressed flatly against a frosty window. He was gazing at a manger scene. Hearing his mother’s near hysterical call, he turned and shouted with innocent glee: "Look Mommy! It’s Jesus - baby Jesus in the hay.” With obvious indifference to his joy and wonder, she impatiently jerked him away saying, "We don’t have time for that!"
What are we making time for this Advent season as we prepare for the celebration of Christmas? You see, how we spend our time reveals our priorities. And our priorities reveal our values. Are you like the mother in this story who did not have time to “ponder these things in her heart.” Or, are you like the little boy – nose smudging the frosty window trying to get a clearer view of little baby Jesus?
As parents and grandparents, our children are taking cues from us on the worth and meaning of Advent and Christmas. They see the way we are spending our time. They can easily discern our values as they watch us operate in this busy season of preparation leading to the celebration of Jesus’ birthday. The way many adults preparate for Christmas, you would think it was their children or grandchildren’s birthday celebration. Very early on, children learn to focus on themselves - “what they are getting.” Often the first question children ask each other is, “what did you get this year?” Where do they learn that Christmas is all about them? They learn it from us…because, sadly, we may have also been taught that it is all about us and we are passing that misguided notion right down the line.
Aaron Burgess shares that a family celebrated Christmas every year with a birthday party for Jesus. An extra chair of honor at the table became the family’s reminder of Jesus’ Presence. A cake with candles, along with the singing of "Happy Birthday" expressed the family’s joy in Jesus’ closeness. One year on Christmas afternoon a visitor to the home asked the five-year-old girl, "Did you get everything you wanted for Christmas?" After a moment’s hesitation, she answered, "No, but then it’s not my birthday!" What an extraordinary answer.
Are we doing enough to place Jesus at the heart of our celebration? It’s about time we did that.
Finally, a poignant illustration by Jim Kane. He writes that in 1994 two Americans answered an invitation from the Russian Department of Education to teach morals and ethics (based on Biblical principles) in the public schools. They were also invited to teach at prisons, businesses, the fire and police departments, and a large orphanage.
It was nearing Christmas and for the orphans it was their first time to hear the traditional Christmas story. The two Americans told them about Mary and Joseph arriving in Bethlehem and finding no room in the inn, and how the couple went to a stable, where Jesus was born and placed in the manger.
Throughout the story, the children, according to one of the Americans, “sat in amazement as they listened. Some sat on the edges of their stools, trying to grasp every word.”
As a follow-up activity to the story, each child was given three small pieces of cardboard to make a crude manger. Each child was also given a small paper square, cut from yellow napkins which the children tore into strips. The paper was then carefully laid in the manger for straw. Small squares of flannel from a thrown away nightgown were used for the baby’s blanket. From pieces of tan felt a doll-like baby was made.
As they made their way around the room to observe the children this is what one of the Americans noted, “All went well until I got to one table where little Misha sat. He looked to be about 6 years old and had finished his project. As I looked at the little boy’s manger, I was startled to see, not one but two babies in the manger. Quickly, I called for the translator to ask the lad why there were two babies in the manger.” The observer goes on to note that Misha very accurately recalled the story that had been told until he came to the part where Mary put Jesus in the manger. “Then Misha started to ad-lib. He made up his own ending to the story as he said, “And when Mary laid the baby in the manger, Jesus looked at me and asked me if I had a place to stay. I told him I have no momma and I have no papa, so I don’t have any place. Then Jesus told me I could stay with him. But I told him I couldn’t because I didn’t have a gift to give him like everybody else did. But I wanted to stay with Jesus so much, so I thought about what I had that maybe I could use for a gift. I thought maybe if I kept him warm, that would be a good gift. So I asked Jesus, “If I keep you warm, will that be a good enough gift?” And Jesus told me, “If you keep me warm, that will be the best gift anybody ever gave me. So I got into the manger, and then Jesus looked at me and he told me I could stay with him – for always.” As little Misha finished his story, his eyes brimmed full of tears that splashed down his little cheeks. Putting his hand over his face, his head dropped to the table and his shoulders shook as he sobbed and sobbed. The little orphan had found someone who would never abandon or abuse him, someone who would stay with him – FOR ALWAYS!”
Our children and grandchildren must hear this story from us. They must see themselves in this story and like little Misha realize that Jesus will never leave them or forsake them…FOR ALWAYS.
How will you spend your time this Advent and Christmas? Will you join the crowds at the mall who are much more interested in getting a good deal on gifts than sharing the best gift ever given? The day after thanksgiving, black Friday, a store clerk who was attempting to open the doors of the store for business, lost his life as rabid shoppers trampled him to death. What does this say about our culture's values at Christmas? I pray we will be consumed with letting our light shine before men – that they will see Jesus. We may need a fresh frosty face, an appropriately directed birthday bash, and a warm cuddle in the creche. Merry Christmas everyone!
What are we making time for this Advent season as we prepare for the celebration of Christmas? You see, how we spend our time reveals our priorities. And our priorities reveal our values. Are you like the mother in this story who did not have time to “ponder these things in her heart.” Or, are you like the little boy – nose smudging the frosty window trying to get a clearer view of little baby Jesus?
As parents and grandparents, our children are taking cues from us on the worth and meaning of Advent and Christmas. They see the way we are spending our time. They can easily discern our values as they watch us operate in this busy season of preparation leading to the celebration of Jesus’ birthday. The way many adults preparate for Christmas, you would think it was their children or grandchildren’s birthday celebration. Very early on, children learn to focus on themselves - “what they are getting.” Often the first question children ask each other is, “what did you get this year?” Where do they learn that Christmas is all about them? They learn it from us…because, sadly, we may have also been taught that it is all about us and we are passing that misguided notion right down the line.
Aaron Burgess shares that a family celebrated Christmas every year with a birthday party for Jesus. An extra chair of honor at the table became the family’s reminder of Jesus’ Presence. A cake with candles, along with the singing of "Happy Birthday" expressed the family’s joy in Jesus’ closeness. One year on Christmas afternoon a visitor to the home asked the five-year-old girl, "Did you get everything you wanted for Christmas?" After a moment’s hesitation, she answered, "No, but then it’s not my birthday!" What an extraordinary answer.
Are we doing enough to place Jesus at the heart of our celebration? It’s about time we did that.
Finally, a poignant illustration by Jim Kane. He writes that in 1994 two Americans answered an invitation from the Russian Department of Education to teach morals and ethics (based on Biblical principles) in the public schools. They were also invited to teach at prisons, businesses, the fire and police departments, and a large orphanage.
It was nearing Christmas and for the orphans it was their first time to hear the traditional Christmas story. The two Americans told them about Mary and Joseph arriving in Bethlehem and finding no room in the inn, and how the couple went to a stable, where Jesus was born and placed in the manger.
Throughout the story, the children, according to one of the Americans, “sat in amazement as they listened. Some sat on the edges of their stools, trying to grasp every word.”
As a follow-up activity to the story, each child was given three small pieces of cardboard to make a crude manger. Each child was also given a small paper square, cut from yellow napkins which the children tore into strips. The paper was then carefully laid in the manger for straw. Small squares of flannel from a thrown away nightgown were used for the baby’s blanket. From pieces of tan felt a doll-like baby was made.
As they made their way around the room to observe the children this is what one of the Americans noted, “All went well until I got to one table where little Misha sat. He looked to be about 6 years old and had finished his project. As I looked at the little boy’s manger, I was startled to see, not one but two babies in the manger. Quickly, I called for the translator to ask the lad why there were two babies in the manger.” The observer goes on to note that Misha very accurately recalled the story that had been told until he came to the part where Mary put Jesus in the manger. “Then Misha started to ad-lib. He made up his own ending to the story as he said, “And when Mary laid the baby in the manger, Jesus looked at me and asked me if I had a place to stay. I told him I have no momma and I have no papa, so I don’t have any place. Then Jesus told me I could stay with him. But I told him I couldn’t because I didn’t have a gift to give him like everybody else did. But I wanted to stay with Jesus so much, so I thought about what I had that maybe I could use for a gift. I thought maybe if I kept him warm, that would be a good gift. So I asked Jesus, “If I keep you warm, will that be a good enough gift?” And Jesus told me, “If you keep me warm, that will be the best gift anybody ever gave me. So I got into the manger, and then Jesus looked at me and he told me I could stay with him – for always.” As little Misha finished his story, his eyes brimmed full of tears that splashed down his little cheeks. Putting his hand over his face, his head dropped to the table and his shoulders shook as he sobbed and sobbed. The little orphan had found someone who would never abandon or abuse him, someone who would stay with him – FOR ALWAYS!”
Our children and grandchildren must hear this story from us. They must see themselves in this story and like little Misha realize that Jesus will never leave them or forsake them…FOR ALWAYS.
How will you spend your time this Advent and Christmas? Will you join the crowds at the mall who are much more interested in getting a good deal on gifts than sharing the best gift ever given? The day after thanksgiving, black Friday, a store clerk who was attempting to open the doors of the store for business, lost his life as rabid shoppers trampled him to death. What does this say about our culture's values at Christmas? I pray we will be consumed with letting our light shine before men – that they will see Jesus. We may need a fresh frosty face, an appropriately directed birthday bash, and a warm cuddle in the creche. Merry Christmas everyone!
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Is Worship Incarnational?
What would you say is the most important event in all of history? That’s a fairly easy question. Most Christians would say Jesus’ “Incarnation,” or in other words, His becoming flesh. Expressed in Jesus’ birth, life, death, resurrection and ascension, the Incarnation is the most pivotal event of all time. Theologian Scott Hahn states, “God became flesh. That is literally the central event in history.” John 1:14 records, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” In verse one we read that, “the Word was with God and the Word was God.” The importance of the Incarnation of Christ has been summarized in one sentence by Saint Athanasius (297-373 AD). He said, “(Jesus) became what we are in order that we might become as He is.” Few Church Fathers have more credibility on this topic than Athanasius who played a key role in battling the great heretic, Arius (256-336 AD). Arius claimed that Jesus and the Holy Spirit were creatures. Athanasius was used of God during the council of Nicaea to put forth language that has helped solidify our understanding of the Trinity, a concept under serious attack in 325 AD. Athanasius proposed terminology, embraced by the council, stating that Jesus was “con-substantial” with the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not created. Indeed, Jesus came to earth as the God-man. The Word became flesh.
As Christians, is our Sacred Assembly “Incarnational?” Does Jesus come to us in worship? Hans Urs von Balthasar suggests that in our worship, “The Word becomes more and more flesh, and the flesh becomes more and more Word.” How can this be? Jesus came to earth two-thousand years ago and ascended to the Father after His passion. He is at the right hand of the Father. How then can our worship be Incarnational?” And, how can we, who are flesh, become more and more Word?
In a previous article we discovered that our Sacred Assembly is for the purpose of Covenant renewal. Covenants create families. Our worship helps us remember the story of God’s redemptive acts on our behalf and how we become sons and daughters of God within the covenant relationship.
In the Old Testament, covenant renewal consisted of hearing again the word and revisiting the sign of the covenant – usually a sacrifice or a meal. Likewise, by hearing the word and sharing the sign, we actualize the sacred actions that have effected our status before God. Physically and spiritually we are swept into and participate sacramentally in the narrative of salvation history. By the re-presentation of the Word inspired – the written record of this narrative, and the Word made flesh – experienced at the Table of the Lord, Christ's incarnation is re-presented and experienced anew. As Jesus offers Himself to us, we are drawn deeper into Him.
Several New Testament passages clearly indicate the Incarnational Presence of Christ as found at His Table. In 1 Corinthians 10:16, Paul teaches us that the bread we break and the cup for which we offer thanks are our "participation in the Body and Blood of Jesus."
1 Corinthians 11:29 strongly pronounces the reality of Christ’s presence with us at the Table. “For anyone who eats and drinks without recognizing the body of the Lord eats and drinks judgment on himself.” According to Paul, because a number of the Corinthians had not rightly discerned Jesus' body and blood at the Table, they were weak, sick and some had died. This seems rather outlandish if Communion is merely symbolic!
Luke 24 further illustrates that we can “know Him in the breaking of the bread.” Jesus Himself said, as recorded in John 6:55, “For my flesh is real food and my blood is real drink. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in him.” The word John uses for flesh (sarx) is the same word used to describe the Incarnation in John 1.
When we come the Table of the Lord, Jesus becomes more and more real, more and more personal to us. Indeed, "Word becomes more and more flesh." And, as we feast on the Word made flesh, we recognize, rightly discern and participate in the body and blood of Jesus. John 6 says that when we eat His body and drink His blood, we abide in Him and He abides in us. In that sense, Balthazar was correct. “Flesh becomes more and more Word.”
This kind of thinking is quite foreign to many evangelical worshipers. I wonder what would happen to us if we were to embrace this kind of Incarnational thinking. If we truly believed that we would experience the Lord in our gatherings, we would long to assemble, arrive early, expect incredible things, and never miss. Sadly, on any given Sunday, of the 16.2 million Southern Baptists on the roles, only 6.5 million can be found in services of worship. We need a new way of thinking…no, we need an ancient way of thinking…Incarnational thinking.
As Christians, is our Sacred Assembly “Incarnational?” Does Jesus come to us in worship? Hans Urs von Balthasar suggests that in our worship, “The Word becomes more and more flesh, and the flesh becomes more and more Word.” How can this be? Jesus came to earth two-thousand years ago and ascended to the Father after His passion. He is at the right hand of the Father. How then can our worship be Incarnational?” And, how can we, who are flesh, become more and more Word?
In a previous article we discovered that our Sacred Assembly is for the purpose of Covenant renewal. Covenants create families. Our worship helps us remember the story of God’s redemptive acts on our behalf and how we become sons and daughters of God within the covenant relationship.
In the Old Testament, covenant renewal consisted of hearing again the word and revisiting the sign of the covenant – usually a sacrifice or a meal. Likewise, by hearing the word and sharing the sign, we actualize the sacred actions that have effected our status before God. Physically and spiritually we are swept into and participate sacramentally in the narrative of salvation history. By the re-presentation of the Word inspired – the written record of this narrative, and the Word made flesh – experienced at the Table of the Lord, Christ's incarnation is re-presented and experienced anew. As Jesus offers Himself to us, we are drawn deeper into Him.
Several New Testament passages clearly indicate the Incarnational Presence of Christ as found at His Table. In 1 Corinthians 10:16, Paul teaches us that the bread we break and the cup for which we offer thanks are our "participation in the Body and Blood of Jesus."
1 Corinthians 11:29 strongly pronounces the reality of Christ’s presence with us at the Table. “For anyone who eats and drinks without recognizing the body of the Lord eats and drinks judgment on himself.” According to Paul, because a number of the Corinthians had not rightly discerned Jesus' body and blood at the Table, they were weak, sick and some had died. This seems rather outlandish if Communion is merely symbolic!
Luke 24 further illustrates that we can “know Him in the breaking of the bread.” Jesus Himself said, as recorded in John 6:55, “For my flesh is real food and my blood is real drink. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in him.” The word John uses for flesh (sarx) is the same word used to describe the Incarnation in John 1.
When we come the Table of the Lord, Jesus becomes more and more real, more and more personal to us. Indeed, "Word becomes more and more flesh." And, as we feast on the Word made flesh, we recognize, rightly discern and participate in the body and blood of Jesus. John 6 says that when we eat His body and drink His blood, we abide in Him and He abides in us. In that sense, Balthazar was correct. “Flesh becomes more and more Word.”
This kind of thinking is quite foreign to many evangelical worshipers. I wonder what would happen to us if we were to embrace this kind of Incarnational thinking. If we truly believed that we would experience the Lord in our gatherings, we would long to assemble, arrive early, expect incredible things, and never miss. Sadly, on any given Sunday, of the 16.2 million Southern Baptists on the roles, only 6.5 million can be found in services of worship. We need a new way of thinking…no, we need an ancient way of thinking…Incarnational thinking.
Monday, July 7, 2008
Christianity – Can You See The Elephant?
Have you ever attended a meeting in which an issue desperately needed to be discussed? But, for some reason, the cause of greatest consternation and turbulence was taboo. All of the participants sit at the table avoiding the one issue that weighs most heavily on their hearts. This “elephant in the room” is an obvious distraction, but no one will acknowledge its existence.
Does such an issue exist for the Church? There are many challenges for the Church today, but there is one that seems most troublesome to me. The issue is the unity of the Body of Christ. As I have talked to my brothers and sisters about the divisions that exist, they seem quite satisfied that this is the way God intended for things to be. Despite this common view, the Scriptures teach quite clearly that unity is not an option for the family of faith. 1 Corinthians 1:10 states, “I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought.” This teaching does not seem ambiguous in the least. Yet, when I ask cherished Christian friends if the various denominations are within God’s plan for His church, they often respond, “Yes. We are separate because we do not agree with others in: Scriptural interpretation, Church polity, the sacraments/ordinances, administration of missions, etc.” There seems to be a certain satisfaction at ecclesial segregation. But the words, let there be “no divisions among you,” come rushing back condemning our smugness at what is an obvious departure from God’s intent.
Ephesians 4:4-6 contains seven statements concerning the unity of the Church. Paul writes that, “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope that belongs to your call, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of us all, who is above all and through all and in all.” Do these non-negotiable statements of fact compel us to seek unity with our brothers and sisters in the faith?
Last week the choirs from Anchor Baptist Church and Tates Creek Presbyterian Church joined forces to sing at the memorial service for a young marine who heroically lost his life defending the country he loved. The singers had thirty minutes to work together in preparation for the service. Given this common purpose around which to agree, those whose understanding of baptism and predestination differ so dramatically were able to overcome divergent views. Their voices blended into a symphony of sound that honored the Lord and showed us all what the Church could look and sound like.
Ephesians 4:1 begins with Paul begging believers to, “lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all lowliness and meekness, with patience, forbearing one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Last Saturday this truth was lived by two choirs who became one. What is the cause that might unite the family of faith now so divided? Jesus shares the transcendent cause for unity in His "High Priestly Prayer." John 17:20 and following record Jesus as saying, "I pray...for those who believe in me...that they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in me and I in You, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me."
Is this a real concern? Can you see the elephant?
Does such an issue exist for the Church? There are many challenges for the Church today, but there is one that seems most troublesome to me. The issue is the unity of the Body of Christ. As I have talked to my brothers and sisters about the divisions that exist, they seem quite satisfied that this is the way God intended for things to be. Despite this common view, the Scriptures teach quite clearly that unity is not an option for the family of faith. 1 Corinthians 1:10 states, “I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought.” This teaching does not seem ambiguous in the least. Yet, when I ask cherished Christian friends if the various denominations are within God’s plan for His church, they often respond, “Yes. We are separate because we do not agree with others in: Scriptural interpretation, Church polity, the sacraments/ordinances, administration of missions, etc.” There seems to be a certain satisfaction at ecclesial segregation. But the words, let there be “no divisions among you,” come rushing back condemning our smugness at what is an obvious departure from God’s intent.
Ephesians 4:4-6 contains seven statements concerning the unity of the Church. Paul writes that, “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope that belongs to your call, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of us all, who is above all and through all and in all.” Do these non-negotiable statements of fact compel us to seek unity with our brothers and sisters in the faith?
Last week the choirs from Anchor Baptist Church and Tates Creek Presbyterian Church joined forces to sing at the memorial service for a young marine who heroically lost his life defending the country he loved. The singers had thirty minutes to work together in preparation for the service. Given this common purpose around which to agree, those whose understanding of baptism and predestination differ so dramatically were able to overcome divergent views. Their voices blended into a symphony of sound that honored the Lord and showed us all what the Church could look and sound like.
Ephesians 4:1 begins with Paul begging believers to, “lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all lowliness and meekness, with patience, forbearing one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Last Saturday this truth was lived by two choirs who became one. What is the cause that might unite the family of faith now so divided? Jesus shares the transcendent cause for unity in His "High Priestly Prayer." John 17:20 and following record Jesus as saying, "I pray...for those who believe in me...that they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in me and I in You, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me."
Is this a real concern? Can you see the elephant?
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Trinity - It's All About Family
How important is your family to you? For many, nothing compares to the importance of family. This is not by happenstance. You see, we were created in the image of God. What does this have to do with family? Consider that God is the perfect family. As Father, Son and Holy Spirit co-exist in perfect tri-unity (trinity), so they impart to us the desire for closeness within family. To see this rightly is to recognize that our families are made in the likeness of the perfect divine family - the Trinity.
As God created Adam and Eve, He established a cosmic covenant and a marriage covenant between them. “The two shall become one flesh”. They were instructed to be fruitful and multiply. The family on earth was born in union with the perfect Triune family and lived in dominion over and harmony with creation. They were full of grace. What happened? Adam and Eve failed to obey their heavenly Father, and consequently, they forfeited the fullness of grace and perfection. They died spiritually.
But, all was not lost because God had a plan. God desired to reconcile with fallen humanity - now empty of familial grace. He offered protection and a relationship to Noah in a family covenant. God expanded the covenant relationship, establishing a tribal covenant with Abraham and his family tree. He further augmented the covenant to a nation in Moses. The covenant grew to a kingdom in David. Finally, the covenant reached its full redemptive potential in Jesus. In Christ, the original marriage and cosmic covenants established in the garden are restored. Jesus extends God’s redemption to everyone. Through His atoning death and resurrection, Jesus brings victory over sin, death and hell. As we participate in corporate worship (sacred assembly) each Sunday, let us remember that through Jesus we can again share in the nature of the Trinity. 2 Peter 1:4 says, “He has given us His very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world…” John 17:20-21 records Jesus praying, "I pray also for those who will believe in me...that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us..." It really is all about family - an eternal family that includes all of us who are in Christ.
Trick question - who else in the Scriptures is said to be, "Full of Grace"?
As God created Adam and Eve, He established a cosmic covenant and a marriage covenant between them. “The two shall become one flesh”. They were instructed to be fruitful and multiply. The family on earth was born in union with the perfect Triune family and lived in dominion over and harmony with creation. They were full of grace. What happened? Adam and Eve failed to obey their heavenly Father, and consequently, they forfeited the fullness of grace and perfection. They died spiritually.
But, all was not lost because God had a plan. God desired to reconcile with fallen humanity - now empty of familial grace. He offered protection and a relationship to Noah in a family covenant. God expanded the covenant relationship, establishing a tribal covenant with Abraham and his family tree. He further augmented the covenant to a nation in Moses. The covenant grew to a kingdom in David. Finally, the covenant reached its full redemptive potential in Jesus. In Christ, the original marriage and cosmic covenants established in the garden are restored. Jesus extends God’s redemption to everyone. Through His atoning death and resurrection, Jesus brings victory over sin, death and hell. As we participate in corporate worship (sacred assembly) each Sunday, let us remember that through Jesus we can again share in the nature of the Trinity. 2 Peter 1:4 says, “He has given us His very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world…” John 17:20-21 records Jesus praying, "I pray also for those who will believe in me...that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us..." It really is all about family - an eternal family that includes all of us who are in Christ.
Trick question - who else in the Scriptures is said to be, "Full of Grace"?
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