tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22031744513568625072024-03-13T07:01:35.507-05:00Jon's JourneyJonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.comBlogger634125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-91672967665595711932021-05-16T14:16:00.001-05:002021-05-16T14:16:41.751-05:00Some Favourite Bible Verses<p>Here are some of my favourite Bible verses. </p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"> "Love one another" John 15:17</p><p style="text-align: center;">"Love one another" Rom 12:10</p><p style="text-align: center;">"Love one another" Rom 13:8</p><p style="text-align: center;">"Love one another" 1 Thess 3:12</p><p style="text-align: center;">"Love one another" 1 Thess 4:9</p><p style="text-align: center;">"Love one another" 1 Peter 1:22</p><p style="text-align: center;">"Love one another" 1 John 3:11</p><p style="text-align: center;">"Love one another" 1 John 3:23</p><p style="text-align: center;">"Love one another" 1 John 4:7</p><p style="text-align: center;">"Love one another" 1 John 4:11</p><p style="text-align: center;">"Love one another" 1 John 4:22</p><p style="text-align: center;">"Love one another" 2 John 1:5</p><p style="text-align: center;">"Love your enemies" Matt 5:44</p><p style="text-align: center;">"Love your enemies" Luke 6:27</p><p style="text-align: center;">"Love your enemies" Luke 6:35</p><p><br /></p><p>And Matthew 12:30-31</p><blockquote><p>"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”</p></blockquote><p>I believe the world would be a better place if more of us figured out how to live this way. It is not always as easy as it may sound. It is easier to love people that are similar to us and who are kind to us. Those who give us the least friction.</p><p>I recognize this emphasis the Bible has on loving others, so I tend to use this lens or filter as I read the rest of the Bible. I recognize people have used the Bible to suport all sorts of ideas and actions. Moving forward I want to read the Bible in a way that helps me grow in my love towards God and all of His creation.</p><p>It is hard to teach an old dog new tricks. But I am working on trying to see the others the way God may see them. Praying for them. Caring for them and about them. Valuing the people over the issues.</p>Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-62353517304267606292021-05-05T19:47:00.003-05:002021-05-05T20:04:23.391-05:00Back from 6 Year Break<p> So yeah, this blog was left silent for over 6 years. Even though I am slightly embarrased at the obvious angst that I was in for a number of years. I am thinking I may start posting a few more things here.</p><div><p><br /></p></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Why keep the old stuff?</h3><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>I want to keep the blog, it is a record of a real spiritual struggle that I went through years ago.</li><li>Who knows, it may still be of some value to others.</li></ul><p></p><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Why post a few new things?</h3><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>If someone stumbles across this blog in the future, I hope I can convey the message that I have moved into a phase of spirituality that is more at peace with God and others.</li><li>I still do find some value sorting out thoughts and beliefs in some public way... even if I'm not sure anyone is reading.</li></ul><p></p><p><br /></p>Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-31843756754287234352021-05-05T19:34:00.003-05:002021-05-05T19:34:32.185-05:00Err on the side of love<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AoWXJC5es4Q/YJM37mHdSgI/AAAAAAACfaI/xs1f5a0y_zIAe95gZj6qU_v9iPTinksWwCLcBGAsYHQ/s526/err-love.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="526" data-original-width="526" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AoWXJC5es4Q/YJM37mHdSgI/AAAAAAACfaI/xs1f5a0y_zIAe95gZj6qU_v9iPTinksWwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/err-love.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>This quote from Brian Zahnd resonates with me these days. I have been trying to live more this way lately. Not just in the realms of theology either. </p><p>It is within my nature to try to be right, and convince others that I am right.</p><p>When I prioritize being right over simply loving others, I am in the wrong... even when I am right.</p>Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-29305644299705677862021-04-26T18:58:00.003-05:002021-05-05T20:16:09.999-05:00The Wrong Way To Read Your BibleThroughout history people have interpreted the Bible in different ways to justify all sorts of things. <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Jesus tells a parable to illustrate how we sometimes get it wrong.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
The Parable of the Good Samaritan Luke 10:25-37 (NET)</h3>
<div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
25 Now an expert in religious law stood up to test Jesus, saying, “Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 26 He said to him, “What is written in the law? How do you understand it?” 27 The expert answered, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and love your neighbor as yourself.” 28 Jesus said to him, “You have answered correctly; do this, and you will live.”</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
29 But the expert, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” 30 Jesus replied, “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell into the hands of robbers, who stripped him, beat him up, and went off, leaving him half dead. 31 Now by chance a priest was going down that road, but when he saw the injured man he passed by on the other side. 32 So too a Levite, when he came up to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33 But a Samaritan who was traveling came to where the injured man was, and when he saw him, he felt compassion for him. 34 He went up to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring oil and wine on them. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. 35 The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, ‘Take care of him, and whatever else you spend, I will repay you when I come back this way.’ 36 Which of these three do you think became a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers?” 37 The expert in religious law said, “The one who showed mercy to him.” So Jesus said to him, “Go and do the same.”</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
The Wrong Way To Read The Bible: </h3>
<div>
The Bible has rule for that. The Bible teaches that we should avoid dead people, so if I see someone who is dead or close to dead, I'm going to avoid getting involved. This seems to be why the priest and Levite avoided helping the injured man in this story. They assumed following these rules was the right thing to do in this situation.</div>
<div>
<div>
<br />
Here are the Bible verses that likely motivated the response of the priest and Levite:<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
Numbers 19:11-13 (NET)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<blockquote><div>“<b>Whoever touches the corpse of any person will be ceremonially unclean seven days.</b> He must purify himself with water on the third day and on the seventh day, and so will be clean. But if he does not purify himself on the third day and the seventh day, then he will not be clean. <b>Anyone who touches the corpse of any dead person</b> and does not purify himself defiles the tabernacle of the Lord. And <b>that person must be cut off from Israel</b>, because the water of purification was not sprinkled on him. <b>He will be unclean</b>; his uncleanness remains on him."</div></blockquote>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Leviticus 21:1-2 (NET)</div>
<blockquote><div>
The Lord said to Moses: “Say to the priests, the sons of Aaron—say to them, ‘<b>For a dead person no priest is to defile himself among his people</b>, except for his close relative who is near to him: his mother, his father, his son, his daughter, his brother,</div></blockquote>
</div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;">Jesus knows the rules, however</h3><div>The way Jesus tells the story, it is easy to see that the right thing to do was to respond with love and compassion - like the Samaritan did.<br />
<br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">
A simple guide to reading the Bible:</h3></div>
<div>
If the way you read the Bible makes it harder to love someone, you are likely missing something.<br />
A full understanding of the message of the Bible should always help you grow in your love towards God and others.<br />
<br />
Note the context of this story. Jesus asked the expert of the law to summarize the whole law. The correct answer was "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and love your neighbour as yourself.".<br />
<br />
When we add up all we learn from the Bible the result should be love.</div><div><br /></div>
Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-89007769237649260102014-09-26T16:59:00.000-05:002014-09-26T16:59:51.047-05:00Truce<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D7Iol3UC-to/VCA_8UG_MkI/AAAAAAAALZs/OAb9Qlu_FtQ/s1600/White_Flag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D7Iol3UC-to/VCA_8UG_MkI/AAAAAAAALZs/OAb9Qlu_FtQ/s1600/White_Flag.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
"... a time for war and a time for peace." Ecclesiastes 3:8<br />
<br />
I'm not a huge fan of war in real life. I pray I never have to participate in one. The ideal world would be one where there is no war, always peace. But I recognize dreaming of our world without war may be just a dream. I also recognize that many of the freedoms we enjoy today are a result of battles fought by others before my time.<br />
<br />
The same applies to the wars in Christ's church that have divided and reformed over the years. I also dream of a day when the Church would recognize that it is one, and that there would be peace. The prayer for Christian unity was the starting point of my journey that got me blogging 6 years ago. However throughout the history of the church many battles have been fought. I recognize that some of those battles have brought new understandings of the freedom and life Christ is offering us.<br />
<br />
But I'm not a huge fan of war.<br />
<br />
I believe aspects of my blog has been more than pushing forward different fronts in different battles. For myself it has largely been a tool I have used to process different beliefs. Sorting through beliefs and traditions that have been handed down to me, testing them against Scripture, and looking at alternative ways of interpreting Scripture related to that topic. I enjoy theological dialogues. I enjoy gaining fresh perspectives of how Scripture can be interpreted. I enjoy grappling through issues that have polarized the church, and trying to find balance within the tensions. I enjoy the teaching one another that can <i>sometimes </i>occur in on-line discussions.<br />
<br />
But I understand I am in the minority here. I get that most people do not welcome questions that challenge beliefs they hold to. So my pushing and questioning here naturally creates an equal and opposite reaction from others. <br />
<br />
I still believe the Church is entering another reformation. Some of the changes I feel are taking place:<br />
<ul>
<li>A fresh awareness what the priesthood of all believers under Christ is</li>
<li>An increased desire to follow the person of Jesus (less desire to follow a religion about Jesus)</li>
<li>An increased understanding that there is only one Church even though it meets in different places</li>
<li>A new emphasis on relational and participatory gatherings</li>
</ul>
I pray that at the end of the day Christ's people reflect more of the love and grace of Christ's that we all proclaim.<br />
<br />
However at this point I am questioning if my little contributions to the cause are worth it. <br />
<br />
My default is for the way of peace. I do not enjoy tension. I do not like mis-trust. I do not enjoy causing pain, or receiving pain. These all come in varying degrees whenever we engage in any sort of conflict or debate. I've known and accepted this all along. But I sense it may be time to wave the white flag of truce.<br />
<br />
I've likely written enough here on this blog. If someone wants to openly dialogue or discuss any of these topics they can contact me or find others who are also engaged in such discussions.<br />
<br />
Related Posts:<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2010/01/my-95-thesis.html">My 95 Thesis</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2012/11/winds-of-next-reformation.html">Winds of Next Reformation</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2011/07/secrets-of-kingdom-summary.html">Secrets of the Kingdom Summary</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2012/11/leading-way.html">Leading The Way</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2014/07/christian-unity-observations.html">Christian Unity Observations</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2009/03/love-is-essential.html">Love is Essential</a></li>
</ul>
<br />Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-43340314043824590672014-09-19T18:04:00.002-05:002014-09-19T18:17:24.189-05:00Literal Hell<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HPqfy4bDkJQ/VByoS_M6GEI/AAAAAAAALZY/-z-EingthpM/s1600/488px-Ge-Hinnom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HPqfy4bDkJQ/VByoS_M6GEI/AAAAAAAALZY/-z-EingthpM/s1600/488px-Ge-Hinnom.jpg" height="244" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; color: #252525; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.3185615539551px; text-align: left;">Valley of Hinnom, </span><abbr style="background-color: #f9f9f9; border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; color: #252525; cursor: help; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.3185615539551px; text-align: left;" title="circa">c.</abbr><span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #252525; font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.3185615539551px;"> 1900</span></span><br /><span style="color: #252525; font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 17.3185615539551px;">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gehenna</span></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I was accused recently of not believing in a literal hell. I find it interesting that I could be so misunderstood. <br />
<br />
When Jesus spoke about hell, the word he used was Gehenna (Matthew 5:22, Matthew 5:29-30, Matthew 10:28, Matthew 18:9, Matthew 23:15, Matthew 23:33, Mark 9:43, Mark 9:45, Mark 9:47, Luke 12:5).<br />
<br />
Gehenna's meaning literally means the "Valley of the son of Hinnom". Some believe that in Jesus' day it was the location of a garbage dump that had fires continually burning to consume the filth and cadavers thrown in it (others question the burning garbage dump explanation). <br />
<br />
Some Jews of Jesus' day held some spiritual beliefs about this literal place called Gehenna as well. Gehenna was viewed as the place of punishment or destruction of the wicked. Gehenna was considered a Purgatory-like place where the wicked go to suffer until they had atoned for their sins. It was stated that the maximum amount of time a sinner could spend in Gehenna was one year, with the exception of five people who are there for all of eternity.<br />
<br />
I believe Jesus believed in a literal place called Gehenna. He spoke about fires of Gehenna, and spoke about bodies being thrown into it. The way he talked about Gehenna makes it sound like it was a bad place that nobody wanted to end up in.<br />
<br />
I don't know if Jesus' had similar spiritual views about Gehenna as some other Jews of his day held.<br />
<br />
But I do assume that Jesus believed in the literal Gehenna, and he possibly held some of the non-literal views other Jews of that time held.<br />
<br />
Other New Testament passages frequently contrasts eternal life for some with death, destruction, and perishing for others. It seems to me that most Christians believe in literal 'eternal life', but don't accept that death, destruction, or perishing in those same verses should be taken as literally.<br />
<br />
So I believe there was a literal place called Gehenna, and tend to lean towards an understanding of a literal 'eternal life' for some, and literally not eternal life for others.<br />
<br />
So feel free to accuse me of believing in a literal reading of Scripture in this case. :)<br />
<br />
See also:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gehenna">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gehenna</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2009/10/does-scripture-say-hell-is-eternal.html">Does Scripture Say Hell is Eternal Punishment</a> - a look at lots of Scripture</li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2010/10/gehenna.html" target="_blank">Gehenna</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2009/10/literal-or-figurative-death.html">Literal or figurative death</a></li>
</ul>
Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-40380361243356946182014-09-06T08:35:00.000-05:002014-09-06T08:56:53.324-05:00Gospel of Christ The Anointed King and SaviourOver the past few years I have taken interest in how the term gospel or good news is used in Scripture. I've posted a six part series on how the term <a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2011/01/gospel-in-gospels-summary.html">gospel is used in the 4 books we call the Gospels</a>. I've noticed that Jesus and His disciples preached the gospel or good news of the kingdom/reign/rule/authority of God. I've also noticed a number of passages where <a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2013/10/paul-proclaiming-kingdom-of-god.html" target="_blank">Paul proclaimed the kingdom of God</a>. <br />
<br />
This week another combination of terms caught my eye. In many of the books attributed to Paul we see the words "<b><i>gospel of Christ</i></b>".<br />
<br />
The term 'Christ' means Messiah or anointed one. The Jews were waiting for a Messiah to be their King and Saviour.<br />
<br />
If we substitute the term Christ with its meaning "anointed King and Saviour", it helps clarify that Paul and Jesus were proclaiming the same good news.<br />
<br />
Romans 15:19<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"in the power of signs and wonders, in the power of the Spirit of God. So from Jerusalem even as far as Illyricum I have fully preached the<b><i> gospel of the anointed King and Saviour</i></b>."</blockquote>
<br />
1 Corinthians 9:12<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"If others receive this right from you, are we not more deserving? But we have not made use of this right. Instead we endure everything so that we may not be a hindrance to the <b><i> gospel of the anointed King and Saviour</i></b>."</blockquote>
<br />
2 Corinthians 2:12<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"Now when I arrived in Troas to proclaim the<b><i> gospel of the anointed King and Saviour</i></b>, even though the Lord had opened a door of opportunity for me,"</blockquote>
<br />
2 Corinthians 4:4<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"among whom the god of this age has blinded the minds of those who do not believe so they would not see the light of the glorious <b><i> gospel of the anointed King and Saviour</i></b>, who is the image of God."</blockquote>
<br />
2 Corinthians 9:13<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"Through the evidence of this service they will glorify God because of your obedience to your confession in the <b><i> gospel of the anointed King and Saviour</i></b> and the generosity of your sharing with them and with everyone."</blockquote>
<br />
Galatians 1:7<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"not that there really is another gospel, but there are some who are disturbing you and wanting to distort the <b><i> gospel of the anointed King and Saviour</i></b>."</blockquote>
<br />
Philippians 1:27<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the <b><i> gospel of the anointed King and Saviour</i></b> so that..."</blockquote>
<br />
1 Thessalonians 3:2<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"We sent Timothy, our brother and fellow worker for <b><i> gospel of the anointed King and Saviour</i></b>, ..."</blockquote>
I'd love to hear your thoughts.<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.4799995422363px;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Related Posts:</span></span><br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2009/03/good-news.html" target="_blank">Good News</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2014/07/different-gospel-definitions.html">Different Gospel Definitions</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2011/01/gospel-in-gospels-summary.html">Gospel in the Gospels - Summary</a> - 6 part series</li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2009/10/what-is-gospel.html">What is the Gospel?</a> - lists verses related to gospel in 'the gospels'</li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2010/01/gospel-in-other-nt-verses.html">Gospel in other NT verses</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2010/04/gospel-of-kingdom-in-romans.html">Gospel of Kingdom in Romans</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2009/01/kingdom-of-god.html">Kingdom of God</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2009/11/what-gospel-does-your-neighbor-need-to.html">What Gospel does you neighbor need to hear?</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2013/05/jesus-gospel-vs-pauls-gospel.html" target="_blank">Jesus' Gospel vs Paul's Gospel</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2009/09/what-does-evangelical-mean.html">What does evangelical mean?</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2009/09/why-did-jesus-come.html">Why Did Jesus Come?</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2010/05/jesus-sends-out-twelve.html">Jesus sends out the 12</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2010/01/my-95-thesis-point-2-gospel.html">My 95 Thesis point 2 Gospel</a></li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-64749186171508896232014-08-25T10:50:00.001-05:002014-10-24T17:47:16.767-05:00Free Will<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DZZYuW4aCzo/U_tb1BVPPaI/AAAAAAAALYw/YYOKAcwGgiY/s1600/free-will-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DZZYuW4aCzo/U_tb1BVPPaI/AAAAAAAALYw/YYOKAcwGgiY/s1600/free-will-3.jpg" height="346" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I've been thinking about free will lately. Do humans have the ability to make their own choices? Should we be held accountable for the choices we make? Or is everything in our world pre-determined. Has God pre-planned everything, and is absolutely everything going to happen the way that God has planned it.<br />
<br />
Many Christians have been influenced by the Calvinist beliefs in total depravity, unconditional election, irresistible grace, and perseverance of the saints. They believe in predestination, that all events have been willed by God. John Calvin interpreted biblical predestination to mean that God willed eternal damnation for some people and salvation for others.<br />
<br />
On the other hand, does a belief in free will limit God's sovereignty?<br />
<br />
This is a complex question for my mind to grapple with.<br />
<br />
Has God planned how I am going to sort this question out? Is it worth even trying to sort out?<br />
<br />
The debate of whether or not free will exists goes beyond the spiritual implications. Determinism is the philosophical position that for every event, including human action, there exist conditions that could cause no other event. Think science and cause and effect. Is who we are, what we think, and what we do simply a product of our environment. When people make poor choices, should we place all the blame on the poor inputs?<br />
<br />
I should go outside and cut the grass. The grass is tall. My yard would look better if I did. The neighbours likely think I should have cut it yesterday. Will I cut it today, or will I wait for tomorrow? Will when I cut the grass be determined by my free will, or am I simply a robot that responds automatically to specific prompts and inputs?<br />
<br />
For now I'll choose to continue with this blog post... because that's the way I'm wired.<br />
<br />
<b>There are some Bible verses that support the idea of predestination</b><br />
<br />
Romans 8:29-30 (NET Bible)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
because those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that his Son would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. 30 And those he predestined, he also called; and those he called, he also justified; and those he justified, he also glorified.</blockquote>
Ephesians 1:5 (NET Bible)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
He did this by predestining us to adoption as his sons through Jesus Christ, according to the pleasure of his will—</blockquote>
Ephesians 1:11 (NET Bible)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
In Christ we too have been claimed as God’s own possession, since we were predestined according to the one purpose of him who accomplishes all things according to the counsel of his will</blockquote>
<br />
<b>There are other Bible verses that support the idea of free will</b><br />
<br />
Proverbs 16:9 ESV<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.</blockquote>
Joshua 24:15 ESV<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, ...</blockquote>
John 7:17 ESV<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
If anyone's will is to do God's will, he will know whether the teaching is from God or whether I am speaking on my own authority.</blockquote>
Revelation 3:20 ESV<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.</blockquote>
1 Corinthians 10:13 ESV / 43 helpful votes<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.</blockquote>
Galatians 5:16-17 ESV<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do.</blockquote>
Psalm 37:23 ESV<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way;</blockquote>
Romans 10:9-10 ESV<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.</blockquote>
Mark 8:34 ESV<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.</blockquote>
Matthew 6:33 NIV<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."</blockquote>
John 3:16 ESV<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.</blockquote>
<br />
There are also Bible verses that speak about free life, and how Jesus has made us free (Galatians 5:1, 1 Peter 2:16, John 8:32, 2 Corinthians 3:17, Romans 8:1-4, Isaiah 61:1). Can freedom exist if there is no free will?<br />
<br />
Do we have free will? I'd love to hear your thoughts on this. Or should I say: I'd love to see how your mind processes this topic based on the the way it has been programmed and the inputs it has received.<br />
<br />
Related Post: <a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2010/02/95-thesis-point-5-calvanism.html" target="_blank">Calvanism</a><br />
<br />
<br />Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-54270239434205838282014-07-23T14:51:00.001-05:002014-07-23T15:15:07.569-05:00Different Gospel Definitions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IAWKeWSS1L4/U9APlUjVVpI/AAAAAAAALXY/xBY53wcpjvM/s1600/535px-Bloch-SermonOnTheMount.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IAWKeWSS1L4/U9APlUjVVpI/AAAAAAAALXY/xBY53wcpjvM/s1600/535px-Bloch-SermonOnTheMount.jpg" height="200" width="178" /></a></div>
Trevin Wax over at The Gospel Coalition has organized a great collection of different definitions of "the gospel" by different Christians both present and past. I appreciated reading summaries from some names I recognize like Martin Luther, Pope Benedict XVI, William Tyndale, Tim Keller, and many others.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Click <a href="http://thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/trevinwax/2009/09/14/gospel-definitions-2/" target="_blank">here</a> or <a href="http://thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/trevinwax/files/2009/09/Gospel-Definitions.pdf" target="_blank">here for a pdf version</a> to see full list and where the following quotes came from.</div>
<div>
<br />
I appreciate Gilbert Beebe's emphasis on "It is finished" or "finished redemption".<br />
<br />
I appreciate W.A. Criswell's brief summary:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"The message from our Lord Himself is that Christ suffered and was raised from the dead and that remission of sins should be preached in His name to all people. That is the good news. That is the message. That is the gospel!"</blockquote>
I appreciate Robert A. Guelich's summary:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"The “gospel” then is the message that God acted in and through Jesus Messiah, God’s anointed one, to effect God’s promise of shalom, salvation, God’s reign.’"</blockquote>
I appreciate Martin Luther's summary:</div>
<div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"The gospel is a story about Christ, God’s and David’s son, who died and was raised, and is established as Lord. This is the gospel in a nutshell."</blockquote>
I appreciate how M.F. Sadler sees the term gospel being used in Scripture to announce different good news events, and that he does not see Scripture using the term to support a list of preferred doctrines or teachings, for example to summarize preferred views on things like individual election, calling, justification, and sanctification.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I appreciate Craig Bartholomew's summary:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
“Gospel (from the Old English godspel, ‘good tale’) means ‘good news,’ and this is the best news there can be: in Jesus, the kingdom of God has come!”</blockquote>
I appreciate Jim Belcher's summary:</div>
<div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
“The ‘gospel’ is the good news that through Jesus, the Messiah, the power of God’s kingdom has entered history to renew the whole world. Through the Savior God has established his reign. When we believe and rely on Jesus’ work and record (rather than ours) for our relationship to God, that kingdom power comes upon us and begins to work through us. We witness this radical new way of living by our renewed lives, beautiful community, social justice, and cultural transformation. The good news brings new life. The gospel motivates, guides, and empowers every aspect of our living and worship.”</blockquote>
I appreciate Pope Benedict XVI's summary:</div>
<div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
“The term has recently been translated as ‘good news.’ That sounds attractive, but it falls far short of the order of magnitude of what is actually meant by the word evangelion. This term figures in the vocabulary of the Roman emperors, who understood themselves as lords, saviors, and redeemers of the world…. The idea was that what comes from the emperor is a saving message, that it is not just a piece of news, but a changing of the world for the better.“When the Evangelists adopt this word, and it thereby becomes the generic name for their writings, what they mean to tell us is this: What the emperors, who pretend to be gods, illegitimately claim, really occurs here – a message endowed with plenary authority, a message that is not just talk but reality…. the Gospel is not just informative speech, but performative speech – not just the imparting of information, but action, efficacious power that enters into the world to save and transform. Mark speaks of the ‘Gospel of God,’ the point being that it is not the emperors who can save the world, but God. And it is here that God’s word, which is at once word and deed, appears; it is here that what the emperors merely assert, but cannot actually perform, truly takes place. For here it is the real Lord of the world – the Living God – who goes into action.“The core of the Gospel is this: The Kingdom of God is at hand.”</blockquote>
I appreciate C.C. Broyles summary:</div>
<div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"Gospel, or “good news,” designates Jesus’ message of the appearance of God’s kingdom, a message entailing liberty for those held captive to any form of affliction and demonstrated most dramatically in acts of healing. In some instances the term encompasses the whole story of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus…"</blockquote>
I appreciate Robert F. Capon emphasis:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
“Christianity is NOT a religion; it is the proclamation of the end of religion. Religion is a human activity dedicated to the job of reconciling God to humanity and humanity to itself. The Gospel, however – the Good News of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, is the astonishing announcement that God has done the whole work of reconciliation without a scrap of human assistance. It is the bizarre proclamation that religion is over – period.”</blockquote>
I appreciate Andy Crouch's summary:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
“The gospel is the proclamation of Jesus, in [two] senses. It is the proclamation announced by Jesus – the arrival of God’s realm of possibility (his “kingdom”) in the midst of human structures of possibility. But it is also the proclamation about Jesus – the good news that in dying and rising, Jesus has made the kingdom he proclaimed available to us.”</blockquote>
<div>
<div>
I appreciate Tim Keller's summary:</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
The ‘gospel’ is the good news that through Christ the power of God’s kingdom has entered history to renew the whole world. When we believe and rely on Jesus’ work and record (rather than ours) for our relationship to God, that kingdom power comes upon us and begins to work through us.”<br />
“Through the person and work of Jesus Christ, God fully accomplishes salvation for us, rescuing us from judgment for sin into fellowship with him, and then restores the creation in which we can enjoy our new life together with him forever.”</blockquote>
</div>
<div>
I appreicate Rick McKinley's point that some may emphasize two different gospels. Some emphasize the gospel of the kingdom that they see Jesus and His disciples preaching, and others emphasize a gospel about how Jesus saves that they see Paul teaching. I agree that Jesus is both Lord and Saviour, and both aspects should be emphasized.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
I appreciate Chris Seay's summary:</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
The gospel is the good news that God is calling out all people to be redeemed by the power residing in the life, death, and ultimate resurrection of Jesus the Liberating King. These “called-out ones” are rescued from a life of slavery, sin, and failure to become emissaries in a new kingdom set to join the redemption of the entire creation, groaning and longing to be redeemed.</blockquote>
</div>
<div>
<div>
I appreciate Tullian Tchividjian's summary:</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
”The Gospel is the the good news that in and through Christ’s life, death, and resurrection, God makes all things new.”</blockquote>
</div>
<div>
<div>
I appreciate N.T. Wright's summary:</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
“The gospel is the royal announcement that the crucified and risen Jesus, who died for our sins and rose again according to the Scriptures, has been enthroned as the true Lord of the world. When this gospel is preached, God calls people to salvation, out of sheer grace, leading them to repentance and faith in Jesus Christ as the risen Lord.”</blockquote>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Personally I feel any definition of the gospel should be broad enough to fit in the majority of passages that reference the term gospel. For example when we look at passages where Jesus and His disciples are seen preaching the gospel, does the way we define the gospel make sense in that context? See Matthew 4:23, Matthew 9:35, Matthew 10:7, Matthew 24:14, Mark 1:14-15, Luke 4:43, Luke 8:1, Luke 9:6 or my <a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2011/01/gospel-in-gospels-summary.html">Gospel in the Gospels </a> 6 part series. I believe there is value in understanding what Scripture has to say on the<a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2014/03/importance-of-cross.html"> importance of the cross</a>, but I don't see Scripture defining the gospel consistently in terms of solving the mystery of what the cross means to us.<span style="color: #222222; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.920000076293945px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<br />
Anyways, I appreciated reading through these different gospel definitions. I see many great truths in them. It is interesting that these men have all came away with different ways to emphasize things after studying the same Scriptures. A good reminder to give each other grace as we seek to be faithful to Scripture as we share with others.<br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: proxima-nova, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.920000076293945px;"><br /></span></span>
I'd love to hear your thoughts. How would you define the gospel?<br />
<br />
Related Posts:<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2011/01/gospel-in-gospels-summary.html">Gospel in the Gospels - Summary</a> - 6 part series</li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2013/01/gospel-definitions.html">Gospel Definitions</a> - some concerns with how we try to define the gospel</li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2009/03/good-news.html" target="_blank">Good News</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2010/04/gospel-of-kingdom-in-romans.html">Gospel of Kingdom in Romans</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2009/11/what-gospel-does-your-neighbor-need-to.html">What Gospel does you neighbor need to hear?</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2009/09/what-does-evangelical-mean.html">What does evangelical mean?</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2010/01/my-95-thesis-point-2-gospel.html">My 95 Thesis point 2 Gospel</a> </li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2011/07/secrets-of-kingdom-summary.html">Secrets of the Kingdom Summary</a> </li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2013/05/jesus-gospel-vs-pauls-gospel.html">Jesus' Gospel vs Paul's Gospel</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2013/10/paul-proclaiming-kingdom-of-god.html" target="_blank">Paul Proclaiming the Kingdom of God</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2014/03/importance-of-cross.html" target="_blank">Importance of The Cross</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2014/04/jesus-saves-from-religion.html" target="_blank">Jesus saves from religion</a></li>
</ul>
</div>
Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-91520982422437508012014-07-14T16:08:00.000-05:002014-07-14T16:08:42.795-05:00Christian Unity Observations<div style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; line-height: 21.46666717529297px; margin-bottom: 6px;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6HCl7w1l77c/U8RFrXlhzWI/AAAAAAAALXE/pBbi2jJmjN4/s1600/JesusPray2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6HCl7w1l77c/U8RFrXlhzWI/AAAAAAAALXE/pBbi2jJmjN4/s1600/JesusPray2.jpg" height="310" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: 14.44444465637207px;">About 8 years ago this passage of </span><span style="font-size: 14.44444465637207px;">John 17:</span><span style="font-size: 14.44444465637207px;">20-23</span><span style="font-size: 14.44444465637207px;"> got me going on a journey. This is the only recorded prayer from Jesus for us, those who believe in Him through the testimony of the first disciples. Yet here we are now with over 30,000 denominations, sects, and divisions. Unity can seem hard to imagine. Over the past 8 years I have enjoyed studying some Church history, the reasons behind some of the divisions, and we have tried to visit and dialogue with Christians from a number of different denominations.</span></div>
<div class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; display: inline;">
<div style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; line-height: 21.46666717529297px; margin-bottom: 6px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
<div style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; line-height: 21.46666717529297px;">
Here are some of the things I have discovered:</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.46666717529297px;"><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2009/02/unity-is-essential.html">Unity is an essential of the faith</a>. Some people create different lists of essential beliefs, and then find a level of unity with people who agree to the same items on their lists. However we can not ignore the volume of Scripture on the topic of unity (<a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2009/02/unity-is-essential.html">see link</a> for some verses). Unity with all Christians should be near the top of those lists, even if there is disagreement around some of the other items. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.46666717529297px;">Before creating or maintaining a division on a specific topic we should ask this question: "is there more clear Scriptural teaching backing my position than there is clear Scriptural teaching on unity and love?"</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.46666717529297px;">We can <a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2009/02/respond-to-disagreements-in-love.html">respond to disagreements with love</a> and humility.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.46666717529297px;">Unity doesn't always mean we agree on everything, but it may mean we bear with one another in love. Consider how family dynamics often work. Being part of a family doesn't usually hinge on agreement on everything.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.46666717529297px;">Pushing conformity often results in the opposite of unity. Some people may conform to your way of thinking, but divisions and walls will be created with others.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.46666717529297px;"><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2014/01/dogmatic-pontification.html">Insisting you are right can be wrong </a>if it is not done in love.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.46666717529297px;">I find recognizing church unity easiest when I recognize that <a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2011/06/church-etymology.html">church </a>is people gathering together. We don't have to pray that denominations all merge into one. We can recognize and live out church unity whenever we get together with other believers.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, lucida grande, tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.46666717529297px;">There is one <a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2011/06/church-etymology.html">church</a>, and it meets in many different places and times.</span></span></li>
</ul>
<div style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; line-height: 21.46666717529297px;">
<span style="font-size: 14.44444465637207px;">Unity isn't achieved with our own effort:</span></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.44444465637207px; line-height: 21.46666717529297px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"so that the love you have loved me with may be in them, and I may be in them.”</blockquote>
<br />
I'd love to hear your thoughts. </div>
</div>
Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-1270547650406962792014-06-20T07:10:00.001-05:002014-06-20T07:19:13.580-05:00Graduation and Catechism Thoughts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cja2E-o1NmQ/U6Qjf-Z4ZAI/AAAAAAAALWI/fJzQf91eBYo/s1600/grad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cja2E-o1NmQ/U6Qjf-Z4ZAI/AAAAAAAALWI/fJzQf91eBYo/s1600/grad.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Institutional forms of education hold a ceremony when students have completed their studies. The institution gives a certificate and sends the students on into the world hoping they have given them the knowledge and skills needed to function and contribute wherever life leads. Or at least enough for them to take the next few steps.</span><br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
Some students go on from one institution to another, making a career out of learning more and more information.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
Other students find employment in the institutions and help teach the following generations.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
But as a society we don't want everyone to stay in school forever.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
I'm wondering if some of this can apply to church institutions.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
Some Christians from some traditions emphasize classes where systems of information are taught and learned. That may be what institutions do best. Some traditions call these classes catechism classes.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
Some Christians prioritize attending these catechism classes, and then decrease their attendance after they have completed these classes. Then years later they prioritize attendance for their children in these classes.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
Other traditions encourage staying in school forever.<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div>
Hebrews 10:23-25 (NIV) does speak of not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing. However there are a few clues that the writer of Hebrews wasn't talking about sitting in a pew listening to sermons every week forever:<br />
<div style="background-color: white;">
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">pews were not invented yet</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">institutional church was not invented yet</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This verse is sandwiched between two "one another" commands. M</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">eeting together can become more about the "one anothers" when we meet together in regular life.</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
Educational institutions hope that everyone become life-long learners, but that doesn't mean we want them to attend an academic institution forever.<br />
<div style="background-color: white;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>"In school, you're taught a lesson and then given a test. In life, you're given a test that teaches you a lesson."</i> </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Tom Bodett</span></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
Can we make a connection between how we approach educational institutions and Christian education? I'd love to hear your thoughts.<br />
<div style="background-color: white;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">Related Posts:</span><br />
<ul style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px; margin: 0.5em 0px; padding: 0px 2.5em;">
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2009/09/one-another.html" style="color: #6683dd; text-decoration: none;">One Another</a></li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2011/08/jesus-on-church.html" style="color: #6683dd; text-decoration: none;">Jesus on Church</a></li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2011/09/recognize-christs-church.html" style="color: #6683dd; text-decoration: none;">Recognize Church</a></li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2011/09/my-role-with-church.html" style="color: #6683dd; text-decoration: none;">My Role with Church</a></li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2011/09/plugins-extensions-and-add-ons-and.html" style="color: #6683dd; text-decoration: none;">Plugins Extensions and Add-ons and the Church</a></li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2010/08/community-i-desire.html" style="color: #6683dd; text-decoration: none;">Community I desire</a></li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2011/07/my-95-thesis-point-13-temple-worship.html" style="color: #6683dd; text-decoration: none;">My 95 Thesis - Point 13 - Temple Worship</a></li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2010/06/thank-you-institutional-church.html" style="color: #6683dd; text-decoration: none;">Thank You Institutional Church</a></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-72232743865848630602014-05-31T11:31:00.000-05:002014-05-31T11:33:05.381-05:00Why I Don't Judge You<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UisKNg3QMYo/U4oChE1by6I/AAAAAAAAK9A/NempawXiMWU/s1600/JudgesTools_Icon.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UisKNg3QMYo/U4oChE1by6I/AAAAAAAAK9A/NempawXiMWU/s1600/JudgesTools_Icon.png" height="221" width="320" /></a></div>
Although my natural self often desires to point out the flaws in others, I trust God is changing me. I do have a critical mind. I tend to think things through, sometimes over-think things. I will often come to different conclusions and will naturally believe I have found a better way.<br />
<br />
But I choose not to Judge you. Here are a few reasons why:<br />
<br />
<b><i>I would have to judge myself</i></b><br />
<br />
I currently believe different things than I did say 10 or 20 years ago. I do some things now that I didn't do before, and I did things before that I don't do today. I don't really want to judge my former self for being wrong, and I hope my former self doesn't judge my current self - although he probably would.<br />
<br />
<b><i>I am not a very good judge</i></b><br />
<br />
Although I think I'm pretty smart, I am smart enough to know I do not have it all figured out. At times I think the more I learn about God, the less I know with 100% certainty. If I were to judge others, I am not sure if I would be correct 80% of the time, 50% of the time, or less.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Jesus seemed to judge those who judged others</i></b><br />
<br />
The Pharisees and experts of religious law were the rule keepers and enforcers of that day. They frequently judged others by the rules and standards they held to. The harshest words Jesus spoke were against these men. There may be a lesson for us here.<br />
<br />
<b><i>The Bible says do not judge</i></b><br />
<br />
Matt 7:1-5, Rom 14:1-8, Luke 6:37-38, 1 Cor 4:4-5<br />
<br />
<b><i>Blasphemy against Holy Spirit</i></b><br />
<br />
The way I read Mark 3:22-30, Matt 12:25-30 and Luke 11:17, it can be risky if we mistakenly judge someone who God is working through. Click here for more on these<a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2012/10/divided-kingdom-blasphemy.html"> blasphemy verses</a>.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Jesus will Judge</i></b><br />
<br />
I trust Jesus will do a good enough job judging. (James 5:9, Acts 10:42, 2 Corinthians 5:10, John 5:22)<br />
<br />
<b><i>What Judging can I do?</i></b><br />
<br />
1 Corinthians 5 gives some room for some judging of others. This was an unusual situation where a believer was doing something shameful in the eyes of both the gentile world and the community, and the community of believers seemed to be proud of it. I'm not sure if this passage should be applied when we disagree over doctrines, and I'm not sure if it should be applied whenever someone does something wrong. There may be situations where believers are in close fellowship with someone they shouldn't be with, and this may apply. But I think we need to be careful not to take this approach of judging others whenever we disagree with someone's beliefs or practices (see reasons given above).<br />
<br />
I believe there is also a sense where we are to judge things for ourselves. I will naturally judge a practice to be harmful or beneficial, or a belief to be right or wrong. I may even speak (or blog) about what I believe. I may try to teach others with the hopes that they see things the way I see them. <br />
<br />
<b><i>Is there a fine line here? </i></b><br />
<br />
Is it possible to believe something, and speak what you believe without judging others?<br />
<br />
I think the fine line is humility. Recognizing along the way that we are each given the freedom to think and live as individuals, all equal under a sovereign Lord and judge above.Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-78812515186470313282014-05-08T17:55:00.001-05:002014-05-08T18:02:38.266-05:00Playdough Scripture 1 John 4<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U69WvX35g4Y/ShCje1jwXAI/AAAAAAAAAEw/Pl0OZWVYyJw/s1600/playdough.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U69WvX35g4Y/ShCje1jwXAI/AAAAAAAAAEw/Pl0OZWVYyJw/s1600/playdough.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
I haven't done one of these for awhile. I hope you find this playdough version as offensive as I do. It does sound wrong when put together this way. Yes God is described as both loving and as the judge. We are commanded to do one and commanded not to do the other. Unfortunately we sometimes get confused about which one we are supposed to do.<br />
<br />
1 John 4 (<a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2009/05/playdough-scripture.html">Playdough</a> Version)<br />
<br />
7 Dear friends, let us <strike>love</strike><span style="color: red;"> judge </span>one another, because <strike>love</strike> <span style="color: red;">judging </span>is from God, and everyone who <strike>loves</strike> <span style="color: red;">judges </span>has been fathered by God and knows God. 8 The person who does not <strike>love</strike> <span style="color: red;">judge </span>does not know God, because God is <strike>love</strike> <span style="color: red;">judgemental</span>. 9 By this the <strike>love</strike> <span style="color: red;">judgements </span>of God is revealed in us: that God has sent his one and only Son into the world so that we may live through him. 10 This is <strike>love</strike> <span style="color: red;">judging</span>: not that we have <strike>loved</strike> <span style="color: red;">judged </span>God, but that he <strike>loved</strike> <span style="color: red;">judged </span>us and sent his Son to be the mercy seat offering for our sins.<br />
<br />
11 Dear friends, if God so <strike>loved</strike> <span style="color: red;">judged </span>us, then we also ought to <strike>love</strike> <span style="color: red;">judge </span>one another. 12 No one has seen God at any time. If we <strike>love</strike> <span style="color: red;">judge </span>one another, God resides in us, and his <strike>love</strike> <span style="color: red;">judging</span> is perfected in us. <br />
<br />
...<br />
<br />
16 And we have come to know and to believe the <strike>love</strike> <span style="color: red;">judgemental nature</span> that God has in us. God is <strike>love </strike><span style="color: red;">judgmental</span>, and the one who resides in <strike>love</strike> <span style="color: red;">judging others </span>resides in God, and God resides in him. 17 By this <strike>love</strike> <span style="color: red;">judging </span>is perfected with us, so that we may have confidence in the day of judgment, because just as Jesus is, so also are we in this world. 18 There is <strike>no</strike> fear in <strike>love</strike> <span style="color: red;">judging</span>, <strike>but perfect love drives out fear</strike>, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears punishment has <strike>not</strike> been perfected in <strike>love</strike> <span style="color: red;">judging</span>. 19 We <strike>love</strike> <span style="color: red;">judge</span> because he <strike>loved</strike> <span style="color: red;">judged </span>us first.<br />
<br />
<strike>20 If anyone says “I love God” and yet hates his fellow Christian, he is a liar, because the one who does not love his fellow Christian whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen.</strike> 21 And the commandment we have from him is this: that the one who loves God should <strike>love</strike> <span style="color: red;">judge </span>his fellow Christian too.Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-51139864408673350372014-04-19T13:51:00.000-05:002014-04-19T13:51:16.665-05:00Some Blog Stats - Did Jesus Pay Our DebtI just noticed a blog post I wrote exactly 5 years ago today is the most viewed post of mine this month. For some reason 92 people have read that post this month, which is likely more views than when I wrote it 5 years ago. It seems some people are asking similar questions that I had. They are searching for:<br />
<ul>
<li>"Jesus paid our debt verse"</li>
<li>"where in Bible does Jesus paid our sin debt"</li>
</ul>
<br />
During these searches they come to my post: <a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2009/04/did-jesus-pay-our-debt.html">Did Jesus pay our debt?</a><br />
<br />
Back then I was searching the Bible for verses that said things like:<br />
<ul>
<li>"Jesus paid our debt"</li>
<li>"Jesus paid a debt that he did not owe"</li>
<li>"Christ Jesus paid a debt that I could never pay!"</li>
<li>"Jesus paid the penalty of man's sin"</li>
</ul>
<div>
Five years later, I still haven't found any verses that clearly say this, and I still have difficulty accepting these ideas as a major theme of Scripture.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If you know of a verse I've missed please let me know.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This search for answers that I started years ago has caused me some grief in my personal life. But I believe the freedom and fresh perspective of God that has grown has been worth it. I don't know the people who are landing on this post this month. I don't know what their relationship with God is like. I wish them God's blessings as they search to understand what Scripture say about how God works. I pray that grace would exist between believers who see things differently. Overall I pray their relationships with God and others grow, wherever they land on their understanding of this topic.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Related Posts:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2009/04/did-jesus-pay-our-debt.html">Did Jesus pay our debt?</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2014/03/importance-of-cross.html">Importance of the cross</a> - a look at many verses talking about meanings of the cross</li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2010/08/10-reasons-why-im-not-fan-of-penal.html">10 Reasons Why I'm Not a Fan of Penal Substitutionary Atonement</a></li>
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2011/01/gospel-in-gospels-summary.html">Gospel in the Gospels - Summary</a> <span style="font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px;">- 6 part series</span></span></li>
<li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0.25em 0px;"><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2013/01/gospel-definitions.html">Gospel Definitions</a> <span style="font-family: Times New Roman, Times, FreeSerif, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px;">- some concerns with how we try to define the gospel</span></span></li>
</ul>
</div>
Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-27275135375230852192014-04-18T12:52:00.000-05:002014-04-25T18:28:46.848-05:00Jesus Saves From Religion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JLxgusUOQD0/U1E6BMFhRZI/AAAAAAAAK7Y/keH2Kh4kXVE/s1600/world_religion.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JLxgusUOQD0/U1E6BMFhRZI/AAAAAAAAK7Y/keH2Kh4kXVE/s1600/world_religion.gif" height="195" width="200" /></a></div>
Has Jesus saved you from religion? This weekend as many consider the death and resurrection of Jesus you may hear the message that Jesus saves. There are different verses that speak about Jesus saving us from sin, selfishness, and the powers of death, destruction, darkness, etc. However the message that Jesus can save you from religion doesn't get as much air time.<br />
<br />
For this post to make sense you need to understand the definition of religion I am working with. For some people religion may simply mean caring for the needs of others as James puts it, or your personal connection with God. But religion often includes more than that. <br />
<br />
<b><i>When I use the word religion, I am talking about a commitment to systems of beliefs, rules, or rituals, and the institutions that maintain them.</i></b><br />
<br />
If the idea that Jesus can save you from religion sounds shocking, take a minute to consider the life of Jesus. In the stories of the New Testament, if Jesus is the protagonist, who where the antagonists? The main opponents Jesus faced during His life, and death were the religious leaders of the day. The Jewish people were looking for a Messiah to save them from Roman political powers. But that is not what Jesus primarily delivered. At the end of the day what powers were broken when Jesus died on the cross? What was the significance of the temple curtain being torn in two?<br />
<br />
Consider this quote in Bruxy Cavey's book "End of Religion":<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"The Jesus described in the Bible never uses the word religion to refer to what he came to establish, nor does he invite people to join a particular institution or organization. When he speaks of "church", he is talking about people who gather in his name, not the structure they meet in or the organization they belong to (see Matthew 18:15-20). And when he talks about connecting with God, he consistently speaks not of religion but of "faith" (Luke 7:50; John 3:14-16). Jesus never commands his followers to embrace detailed creeds or codes of conduct, and he never instructs his followers to participate in exhaustive religious rituals. His life's work was about undoing the knots that bound people to ritual and empty tradition."</blockquote>
<br />
If you are still with me, here are some scripture passages to consider.<br />
<br />
Galatians 2:15-21 (NET) - The context for the "I have been crucified with Christ" seams to be that the old self that was mastered by the old religious law is now put to death. If we continue to live under the control of religion, "Christ died for nothing!"<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"We are Jews by birth and not Gentile sinners, 16 yet we know that no one is justified by the<b><i> works of the law</i></b> but by the faithfulness of Jesus Christ. And we have come to believe in Christ Jesus, so that we may be justified by the faithfulness of Christ and not by the <b><i>works of the law</i></b>, because by the <b><i>works of the law</i></b> no one will be justified. 17 But if while seeking to be justified in Christ we ourselves have also been found to be sinners, is Christ then one who encourages sin? Absolutely not! 18 But if I build up again those things I once destroyed, I demonstrate that I am one who breaks God’s law. 19 For through the law I died to the law so that I may live to God. 20 <b><i>I have been crucified with Christ,</i></b> and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So the life I now live in the body, I live because of the faithfulness of the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 21 I do not set aside God’s grace, because if righteousness could come through the law, then Christ died for nothing!" </blockquote>
Galatians 3:11-14 (NET) - Jesus freed us from the old religious laws<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"Now it is clear no one is justified before God by the law, because the righteous one will live by faith. 12 But the law is not based on faith, but the one who does the works of the law will live by them. 13 <b><i>Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law</i></b> by becoming a curse for us (because it is written, “Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree”) 14 in order that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham would come to the Gentiles, so that we could receive the promise of the Spirit by faith.</blockquote>
Galatians 3:23 - 29 (NET) - We used to be in bondage to religion. Prisoners under the control of religion. Now we are 'in Christ Jesus' adopted as His sons. Our trust and submission is no longer directed towards religion, but towards the person of Jesus.<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
23 Now before faith came <b><i>we were held in custody under the law, being kept as prisoners</i></b> until the coming faith would be revealed. 24 Thus the law had become our guardian until Christ, so that we could be declared righteous by faith. 25 But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian. 26 For in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God through faith. 27 For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female—for all of you are one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s descendants, heirs according to the promise.</blockquote>
<br />
Galatians 4:5 (NET) "to redeem those who were under the law, so that we may be adopted as sons with full rights."<br />
<br />
Galatians 5:1 (NET) "<b><i>For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and</i></b> <b><i>do not be subject again to the yoke of slavery.</i></b> "<br />
<br />
Galatians 6:12-16 (NET) - The context of this passage is speaking about the old religious laws. When Paul says that the "world has been crucified to me" he is speaking about the hold that religion had on him is now dead.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
12 Those who want to make a good showing in external matters are trying to force you to be circumcised. They do so only to avoid being persecuted for the cross of Christ. 13 For those who are circumcised do not obey the law themselves, but they want you to be circumcised so that they can boast about your flesh. 14 But may I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which<b><i> the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world</i></b>. 15 For neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything; the only thing that matters is a new creation! 16 And all who will behave in accordance with this rule, peace and mercy be on them, and on the Israel of God.</blockquote>
1 Corinthians 15:50 - 57 - The power of sin is religious laws.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
“Now this is what I am saying, brothers and sisters: Flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. Listen, I will tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed— in a moment, in the blinking of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality. Now when this perishable puts on the imperishable, and this mortal puts on immortality, then the saying that is written will happen, “Death has been swallowed up in victory. “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” <b><i>The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!</i></b></blockquote>
Colossians 2:13-14 (NIV) - canceled the written code with it's regulations<div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"He forgave us all our sins, having <b><i>canceled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us</i></b> and that stood opposed to us; he took it away, nailing it to the cross. "</blockquote>
<br />
So what has Jesus saved us from? I believe a case can be made that trusting in Jesus saves us from the control of religion. Life under God's rule free's us from bondage to our own selfish ways, as well as the grip of religion and other powers of the world.<br />
<br />
"<b><i>You were bought with a price. Do not become slaves of men.</i></b>" 1 Corinthians 7:23 (NET)<br />
<br />
I'd love to hear your thoughts.<br />
<br />
Related posts:<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2014/03/importance-of-cross.html">Importance of The Cross</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2014/03/two-types-of-legalism.html">Two Types of Legalism</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2013/01/following-jesus-and-following.html">Following Jesus and Following Christianity</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2011/11/end-of-religion.html">End Of Religion</a></li>
</ul>
<br />
<br /></div>
Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-69718832688233773772014-04-04T16:21:00.001-05:002014-04-04T16:26:34.779-05:00Some Bible Gateway DefinitionsI came across some definitions from <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/">Bible Gateway</a> that I appreciate (by <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Dictionary-of-Bible-Themes-ebook/dp/B007IA35XE/ref=sr_1_16?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1331272125&sr=1-16">Dictionary of Bible Themes</a> Scripture index copyright Martin H. Manser, 2009)<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/dictionary-of-bible-themes/2423-gospel-essence">2423 gospel, essence of</a><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"The chief characteristic and fundamental doctrine of the gospel is that Jesus Christ is both Lord and Saviour."</blockquote>
<br />
<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/dictionary-of-bible-themes/2375-kingdom-God">2375 kingdom of God</a></div>
<div>
<h4>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">"Or, less frequently, “kingdom of heaven”, the kingly rule of God in the lives of people and nations. It refers to the recognition of the authority of God, rather than a definite geographical area, and begins with the ministry of Jesus Christ."</span></blockquote>
<br /><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/dictionary-of-bible-themes/2376-kingdom-God-coming">2376 kingdom of God, coming of</a><br /><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">"The kingdom of God comes into being wherever the kingly authority of God is acknowledged. Although God is always sovereign, Scripture looks to a future “realm” or “reign” of salvation. This has come in Christ and yet will come in its fulness only when Jesus Christ returns."</span></blockquote>
<br />
The above links have many subheadings with links to related verses. For example... </h4>
<div>
<br /></div>
<b>"The kingdom of God was central in the preaching of Jesus Christ and the apostles"</b><br />
<h4>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt%2024:14">Mt 24:14</a>; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%208:1">Lk 8:1</a>; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%2028:31">Ac 28:31</a> See also <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt%204:17">Mt 4:17</a>,<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt%204:23">23</a>; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt%209:35">Mt 9:35</a>; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt%2010:7">Mt 10:7</a> Jesus Christ’s instructions to the Twelve; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%201:13-Mark%201:14">Mk 1:13-14</a>; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%204:43">Lk 4:43</a>; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%209:2">Lk 9:2</a>,<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%209:11">11</a>; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2010:9">Lk 10:9</a>; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%201:3">Ac 1:3</a>,<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%201:6-Acts%201:8">6-8</a>; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%208:12">Ac 8:12</a>; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%2019:8">Ac 19:8</a>; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%2020:25">Ac 20:25</a>; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%2028:23">Ac 28:23</a></span></blockquote>
<br /> "The kingdom of God has come in Christ: it is present"</h4>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt%2011:12">Mt 11:12</a> Following the Jewish convention of avoiding the use of the divine name, Matthew usually speaks of “the kingdom of heaven”. See also <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt%203:1-Matt%203:2">Mt 3:1-2</a>; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt%204:17">Mt 4:17</a>; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt%2013:31-Matt%2013:32">Mt 13:31-32</a> pp <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%204:30-Mark%204:32">Mk 4:30-32</a> pp <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2013:18-Luke%2013:19">Lk 13:18-19</a>; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt%2013:33">Mt 13:33</a> pp <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2013:20-Luke%2013:21">Lk 13:20-21</a>; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt%2016:28">Mt 16:28</a> pp <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%209:1">Mk 9:1</a> pp <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%209:27">Lk 9:27</a>; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2011:20">Lk 11:20</a>;<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2016:16">Lk 16:16</a>; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2017:20-Luke%2017:21">Lk 17:20-21</a></blockquote>
<b>"The kingdom of God will come in its fulness only when Jesus Christ returns: it is future"</b><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2022:18">Lk 22:18</a> pp <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt%2026:29">Mt 26:29</a> pp <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%2014:25">Mk 14:25</a> See also <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt%206:10">Mt 6:10</a> pp <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2011:2">Lk 11:2</a>; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt%2025:31">Mt 25:31</a>,<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt%2025:34">34</a>; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2022:16">Lk 22:16</a>; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1Cor%2015:24">1Co 15:24</a>; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2Tim%204:18">2Ti 4:18</a>; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Rev%2011:15">Rev 11:15</a>; <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Rev%2012:10">Rev 12:10</a></blockquote>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I just thought I'd share links to this resource.</div>
Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-84588763261441621362014-03-15T10:46:00.000-05:002014-03-15T11:00:20.923-05:00Two Types of Legalism<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NELL-xz9IXg/UyRsUW-OSzI/AAAAAAAAK6E/ERNWa_yfVLc/s1600/Scales_of_Justice_(PSF)+(1).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NELL-xz9IXg/UyRsUW-OSzI/AAAAAAAAK6E/ERNWa_yfVLc/s1600/Scales_of_Justice_(PSF)+(1).png" height="320" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Scales_of_Justice_(PSF).png</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
"Legalism, in Christian theology, is a usually pejorative term referring to an over-emphasis on discipline of conduct, or legal ideas, usually implying an allegation of misguided rigour, pride, superficiality, the neglect of mercy, and ignorance of the grace of God or emphasizing the letter of law at the expense of the spirit."<br />
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legalism_(theology)<br />
<br />
I think it is worth thinking through different types of legalism that exists in various degrees in different Christian circles.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Common Conditions </h3>
For a legalistic system to exist there needs to be a leader, or group of leaders who define the rules or laws, and enforce compliance in some way. When people break the rules or laws of the system, some form of shame, guilt, or exclusion from the group is applied.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Legalism of Actions</h3>
<br />
Many religious systems will have a written or unwritten list of actions you must do, and others you must avoid. Some actions increase your inclusion with the group, other actions will bring on you some level of shame, guilt, and exclusion. <br />
<br />
Examples of external action rules can be around<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>what food, beverages, or other substances to consume</li>
<li>what words should be spoken, and what words should not be spoken</li>
<li>where to be on certain days and where not to be on other days</li>
<li>where, how, and frequency of prayer</li>
<li>what to read, and what not to read</li>
<li>where to give and how much money to give</li>
<li>sexuality</li>
<li>what clothing to wear</li>
<li>music</li>
<li>entertainment</li>
</ul>
<br />
<h3>
Legalism of Thought</h3>
<br />
Religious systems will also have a set way of thinking. The leaders of the system will promote certain schools of thought. There will be some common beliefs that hold the group together. Questioning these beliefs publicly will bring some level of accusations, conflict, and exclusion.<br />
<br />
I won't try to create a list of examples for this. The list would be too long. Different religions and their leaders have compiled enormous lists of things they believe. Beliefs around who God is, what He has done, what our response should be, authority of certain books, authority of certain people, and what the future will hold for different sets of people. Included in this list would also be questioning any of the action rules listed above. Publicly re-thinking any of external rules in some cases may be considered worse than simply breaking the rules.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Degrees of Legalism</h3>
<br />
I think the degrees of legalism can be measured by the severity of response by those ruling the religious system. Throughout history there have been different responses by those in power.<br />
<br />
When we study church history we note when religious leaders have also held enough political power, many people who publicly broke the rules of acceptable thought were publicly executed. In other cases breaking the rules resulted in public shunning. In other cases more grace and compassion may be applied when the rules of action or though are broken.<br />
<br />
I find it interesting to note that some of the harshest religious suppressions in history were around legalism of though more than around legalism of actions. I think religious leaders have killed more people for differences in beliefs than they have for differences in behaviors.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3>
Some Scripture to Consider</h3>
In Jesus' day the Pharasees, Sadducees, and other teachers of the law played a role in the legalism that Jesus frequently opposed. The religious leaders succeeded in having Jesus killed, thinking this would be the best way to preserve their legalistic system. However we believe Jesus came out victorious.<br />
<br />
In Mark 7:1-16 we see that some of Jesus' disciples broke the rules regarding how to wash your hands before eating. The Pharasees and teachers of the law question Jesus about this, and Jesus goes on a lengthy rant related to their legalism.<br />
<br />
In Mark 2:23-27 we see Jesus' disciples picking and eating some grain on the Sabbath. This story again highlights the difference between the way of legalism and the way of Jesus.<br />
<br />
Romans 7:6 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"But now we have been released from the law, because we have died to what controlled us, so that we may serve in the new life of the Spirit and not under the old written code."</blockquote>
<br />
Galatians 4:5 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
to redeem those who were under the law, so that we may be adopted as sons with full rights.</blockquote>
<br />
1 Corinthians 15:56-57 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!</blockquote>
<br />
2 Corinthians 3:6 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
who made us adequate to be servants of a new covenant not based on the letter but on the Spirit, for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.</blockquote>
<br />
2 Corinthians 3:17 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is present, there is freedom.</blockquote>
<br />
Luke 6:37-38 (NET)<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
“Do not judge, and you will not be judged; do not condemn, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you: A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be poured into your lap. For the measure you use will be the measure you receive.”</blockquote>
(Similar in Matthew 7:1-5) <br />
<br />
1 Corinthians 4:4-5 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
For I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not acquitted because of this. The one who judges me is the Lord. So then, do not judge anything before the time. Wait until the Lord comes. He will bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the motives of hearts. Then each will receive recognition from God.</blockquote>
<br />
<br />
I wanted to highlight that there are different types of legalism. If we look at church history we see both types at play. The degree of legalistic suppression can be viewed by the degree of authority a group of leaders has had over others, and the degree they feel responsible to be the judge and jury over those under them.<br />
<br />
I am not suggesting that having rules is all bad. Jesus said he didn't come to destroy the law, but to fulfill it. Having rules in society is good. It is also good to work towards correct thinking. There is just something we see in the example of the Pharisees we want to avoid. I think it is clear we need to be careful when we assume the role of judge or jury. I recognize this is as much of a challenge for myself as it is for others.<br />
<br />
I'd love to hear your thoughts.<br />
<br />
Related Posts:<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2009/01/judgemental-christians.html">Judgemental Christians</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2013/05/what-creed-must-i-believe-part-6.html">What Creed Must I believe - Part 6</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2011/11/end-of-religion.html">End Of Religion</a></li>
</ul>
Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-74764420557630062772014-03-08T18:37:00.001-06:002015-10-13T20:04:09.781-05:00Importance of The Cross<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DpEDkffrOpU/UxuuAGloN-I/AAAAAAAAK5w/gpO8uGoc4YM/s1600/220px-Christ_Carrying_the_Cross_1580.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DpEDkffrOpU/UxuuAGloN-I/AAAAAAAAK5w/gpO8uGoc4YM/s1600/220px-Christ_Carrying_the_Cross_1580.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Christ_Carrying_the_Cross_1580.jpg</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I want to highlight the importance of Jesus'
death and resurrection. I may define the gospel differently than
some, and I may prefer different atonement theories, but the work of
the cross is still very meaningful to me.<br />
<br />
I'll start with what Jesus said about the meaning of his death.<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b>A Promise for Forgiveness</b></h3>
<br />
Matthew 26:27-29 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
And after taking the cup and giving thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you, for this is my blood, <b><i>the blood of the covenant</i></b>,<b><i> that is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins</i></b>. I tell you, from now on I will not drink of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.”</blockquote>
Throughout history some different cultures have had some sort of blood
covenant ritual. In our culture we have a handshake covenant ritual.
The roots of the handshake includes a form where the people would
cut their hands and shake with bloody hands. Other ancient rituals
included cutting animals in half and walking through them. I see Jesus saying that His blood would be a new handshake, a new promise, that
our sins are forgiven. With His blood He is showing His dedication
of His love and commitment to us.<br />
<br />
<h3>
A Different Kind of Victory</h3>
<br />
John 12: 23-26, 31-32 (NIV)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Jesus replied, “<b><i>The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified.</i></b> Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds. Anyone who loves their life will lose it, while anyone who hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me.<br />
“Now my soul is troubled, and what shall I say? ‘Father, save me from this hour’? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour. Father, glorify your name!”<br />
Then a voice came from heaven, “I have glorified it, and will glorify it again.” The crowd that was there and heard it said it had thundered; others said an angel had spoken to him. Jesus said, “This voice was for your benefit, not mine.<br />
<b><i>Now is the time for judgment on this world</i></b>; <b><i>now the prince of this world will be driven out</i></b>. <b><i>And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.”</i></b></blockquote>
The religous and political rulers of the world thought they were defeating Jesus by killing him. But what looked like defeat to some was actually somehow a victory. The powers of this world would be driven out, and Jesus would draw everyone to himself.<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b>An Example For Us To Follow</b></h3>
<br />
Matt 16:24-26 (NIV)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone would come after
me, he must deny himself and <b><i>take up his cross and follow
me</i></b>. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever
loses his life for me will find it. What good will it be for a man if
he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man
give in exchange for his soul?</blockquote>
This point is repeated in Matt 10:38-39, Mark 8:34-38
and Luke 9:23-27. There is something to this passage that the
gospel writers agreed was important.<br />
<br />
So what could Jesus be
asking of us here? In what way are we to follow Jesus' example of
taking up the cross? It is difficult to fit this passage into some
of the atonement theories that explain how God saves us. There is
something about Christ's work on the cross that we are to duplicate
in our lives to gain the life He wants for us.<br />
<br />
These next verses may help..<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b>Our Selfish Self Is Crucified with Christ</b></h3>
<br />
Galatians 6:14 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
But may I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ
(anointed King), through which <b><i>the world has been crucified to me,
and I to the world</i></b>.</blockquote>
Galatians 2:20 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b><i>I have been crucified with Christ</i></b> (the anointed King), and it is
no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So the life I now live
in the body, I live because of the faithfulness of the Son of God,
who loved me and gave himself for me.</blockquote>
Gal 5:24 (NIV)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"Those who belong to Christ (the anointed King) Jesus <b><i>have
crucified the sinful nature</i></b> with its passions and desires."</blockquote>
Rom 6:11 (NIV)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"In the same way, <b><i>count yourselves dead to sin but alive to
God </i></b>in Christ (the anointed King) Jesus."</blockquote>
1 Peter 2:24 (NIV)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that <b><i>we
might die to sins and live for righteousness</i></b>; by his wounds you have
been healed."</blockquote>
<h3>
<b>Victory Over Sin and Death</b></h3>
<br />
Romans 6:9-11
(NIV)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"For we know that since Christ (the anointed King) was raised
from the dead, he cannot die again; <b><i>death no longer has mastery over
him</i></b>. The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he
lives, he lives to God. In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin
but alive to God in Christ (the anointed King) Jesus."</blockquote>
2 Timothy 1:10 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
but now made visible through the appearing of our Savior Christ (the anointed King) Jesus. He has <b><i>broken the power of death</i></b> and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel!</blockquote>
<div>
Hebrews 2:14-15 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Therefore, since the children share in flesh and blood, he likewise shared in their humanity, so that through death <b><i>he could destroy the one who holds the power of death</i></b> (that is, the devil), and set free those who were held in slavery all their lives by their fear of death.</blockquote>
Colossians 1:13 (NET)</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
He delivered us from the power of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of the Son he loves,</blockquote>
<div>
Rom 4:25 (NIV)</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised
to life for our justification. "</blockquote>
Rom 6:23 (NIV)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is
eternal life in Christ (the anointed King) Jesus our Lord."</blockquote>
1 Peter 3:18 (NIV)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"For Christ (the anointed King) died for sins once for all,
the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to
death in the body but made alive by the Spirit,"</blockquote>
<h3>
<b>A Ransom Freeing Us From The Power Of Darkness</b></h3>
<br />
The ransom analogy paints a picture of something bad holding us
captive, and God through Jesus' sacrifice bought us out from
captivity. (This is different than the idea that Jesus' death was a
payment made to appease God's wrath towards us as some theories suggest.)<br />
<br />
1 Timothy 2:6 (NIV)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"who gave himself as a <b><i>ransom </i></b>for all men—the testimony
given in its proper time."</blockquote>
Titus 2:14 (NIV)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"who gave himself for us to <b><i>redeem </i></b>us from all wickedness and
to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do
what is good."</blockquote>
Matthew 20:28 (NIV)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to
serve, and to give his life as a <b><i>ransom </i></b>for many."</blockquote>
Mark 10:45 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
For even the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve,
and to give his life as a <b><i>ransom </i></b>for many.”</blockquote>
Romans 3:23-26 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. But they
are justified freely by his grace through the <b><i>redemption </i></b>that is in
Christ (the anointed King) Jesus. God publicly displayed him at his
death as the mercy seat accessible through faith. This was to
demonstrate his righteousness, because God in his forbearance had
passed over the sins previously committed. This was also to
demonstrate his righteousness in the present time, so that he would
be just and the justifier of the one who lives because of Jesus’
faithfulness.</blockquote>
Galatians 3:13(NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Christ (the anointed King) <b><i>redeemed </i></b>us from the curse of the law
by becoming a curse for us (because it is written, “Cursed is
everyone who hangs on a tree”)</blockquote>
Galatians 4:5 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
to <b><i>redeem </i></b>those who were under the law, so that we may be adopted
as sons with full rights.</blockquote>
Ephesians 1:7-8 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
In him we have <b><i>redemption </i></b>through his blood, the forgiveness of
our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace that he lavished
on us in all wisdom and insight.</blockquote>
1 Peter 1:18-19 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
You know that from your empty way of life inherited from your
ancestors you were <b><i>ransomed</i></b>—not by perishable things like silver or
gold, but by precious blood like that of an unblemished and spotless
lamb, namely Christ.</blockquote>
Revelation 5:9 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
They were singing a new song: “You are worthy to take the scroll
and to open its seals<br />
because you were killed, and at the cost of your own blood you
have <b><i>purchased for God </i></b>persons from every tribe, language, people,
and nation.</blockquote>
1 Corinthians 7:23 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
You were bought with a price. Do not become slaves of men.</blockquote>
1 Corinthians 6:20 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
For you were <b><i>bought at a price</i></b>. Therefore glorify God with your
body.</blockquote>
<h3>
<b>Last Sacrificial Lamb</b></h3>
<br />
The Jewish religious requirements of killing animals to offer as
sacrifices to God is completed.<br />
<br />
<br />
John 1:29 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
On the next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look,
the <b><i>Lamb of God</i></b> who takes away the sin of the world!</blockquote>
Hebrews 10:12-18 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
But when this priest had<b><i> offered one sacrifice for sins</i></b> for all
time, he sat down at the right hand of God, where he is now waiting
until his enemies are made a footstool for his feet. For by <b><i>one
offering </i></b>he has perfected for all time those who are made holy. And
the Holy Spirit also witnesses to us, for after saying, “This is
the covenant that I will establish with them after those days, says
the Lord. I will put my laws on their hearts and I will inscribe them
on their minds,” then he says, “Their sins and their lawless
deeds I will remember no longer.” Now where there is forgiveness
of these, there is no longer any offering for sin.</blockquote>
Revelation 5:12 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
all of whom were singing in a loud voice: “Worthy is the <b><i>lamb
</i></b>who was killed to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and
honor and glory and praise!”</blockquote>
<h3>
<b>New Birth, New Life</b></h3>
<br />
1 Peter 1:3 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! By his
great mercy he gave us<b><i> new birth into a living hope</i></b> through the
resurrection of Jesus Christ (the anointed King) from the dead,</blockquote>
Ephesians 2:4-6 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
But God, being rich in mercy, because of his great love with
which he loved us, even though we were dead in transgressions, <b><i>made
us alive </i></b>together with Christ—by grace you are saved!— and<b><i> he
raised us up</i></b> with him and seated us with him in the heavenly realms
in Christ (the anointed King) Jesus,</blockquote>
<br />
Colossians 2:12-15 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Having been buried with him in baptism, <b><i>you also have been raised</i></b>
with him through your faith in the power of God who raised him from
the dead. And even though you were dead in your transgressions and
in the uncircumcision of your flesh, he nevertheless<b><i> made you alive
</i></b>with him, having forgiven all your transgressions. He has
destroyed what was against us, a certificate of indebtedness
expressed in decrees opposed to us. He has taken it away by nailing
it to the cross. Disarming the rulers and authorities, he has made
a public disgrace of them, triumphing over them by the cross.</blockquote>
<h3>
<b>Demonstration of Love towards sinners</b></h3>
<br />
Romans 5:6-8 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died
for the ungodly. (For rarely will anyone die for a righteous person,
though for a good person perhaps someone might possibly dare to die.
But God demonstrates his own love for us, in that <b><i>while we were still
sinners, Christ died for us.</i></b></blockquote>
<h3>
<b>The Kingship of Jesus and the message of the cross were top
priorities of Paul</b></h3>
<br />
1 Corinthians 2:2 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
For I decided to be concerned about nothing among you except Jesus
Christ (the anointed king), and him crucified.</blockquote>
(See <a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2013/10/paul-proclaiming-kingdom-of-god.html">Paul Proclaiming the Kingdom of God</a> for more on Paul's Kingdom emphasis.)<br />
<br />
1 Corinthians 1:18 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
“For the message about the cross is foolishness to those who are
perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”</blockquote>
1 Corinthians 15 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Now I want to make clear for you, brothers and sisters, the gospel
that I preached to you, that you received and on which you stand, and
by which you are being saved, if you hold firmly to the message I
preached to you—unless you believed in vain. <b><i>For I passed on
to you as of first importance what I also received—that Christ (the
anointed King) died for our sins</i></b> according to the scriptures, and
that he was buried, and that he was raised on the third day according
to the scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the
twelve. Then he appeared to more than five hundred of the
brothers and sisters at one time, most of whom are still alive,
though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then
to all the apostles. Last of all, as though to one born at the
wrong time, he appeared to me also.....</blockquote>
We see in this gospel explanation Paul makes a proclamation of the
Kingship of Jesus, His death, and His resurrection. Paul talks
about the significance of the resurrection for this entire chapter
ending with this. He describes how the resurrection of Jesus gives us
hope in a future resurrection, as well as currently defeating sin and
the religious law. <br />
<br />
1 Corinthians 15:50 - 57<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
“Now this is what I am saying, brothers and sisters: Flesh and
blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable
inherit the imperishable. Listen, I will tell you a mystery: We
will not all sleep, but we will all be changed— in a moment, in the
blinking of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound,
and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. For
this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal
body must put on immortality. Now when this perishable puts on
the imperishable, and this mortal puts on immortality, then the
saying that is written will happen, “Death has been swallowed up in
victory. “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your
sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is
the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through
our Lord Jesus Christ!</blockquote>
<h3>
<b>What I don't see:</b></h3>
<ol>
<li><b>I don't see the gospel being defined consistently in terms of
the cross.</b> I believe a more balanced view of the gospel takes into account the 23 verses
in the gospels that reference the gospel or good news. It would acknowledge that Jesus and His disciples are
recorded as preaching the gospel and explore what that may have
sounded like. It would recognize a reason given by Jesus for why He came:
"Jesus, however, said to them: “I must take the good news
(gospel) of the kingdom of God to the other towns also, for that was
why I was sent.” Luke 4:43. Here is a link to my study on the
<a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2014/02/another-look-at-gospel-according-to.html">gospels according to the gospels.</a></li>
<li><b>I don't see the penal substitutionary atonement theory.</b> I
don't see Jesus' death as a payment made to God for the debt of sin.
I see the ransom verses making a case that Jesus bought us out from
the powers of darkness. I see more evidence of Jesus bringing us to
God, and less that Jesus saved us from God. For more on this see: <a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2014/01/overview-of-different-atonement-theories.html">Overview of Different Atonement Theories</a> and <a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2010/08/10-reasons-why-im-not-fan-of-penal.html">10 Reasons Why I'm Not a Fan of Penal Substitution...</a></li>
<li><b>I don't see anything like “you must believe the following
about the cross to be saved”.</b> I see the New Testament consistently
addressing the questions “What must I do to be saved?” with
“Place your trust in the person of Jesus”. I do not see lists of
essential beliefs attached to passages that address this question.
Placing our faith or trust in the person of Jesus is more than
believing specific information about him, no matter how correct or
important the information is (James 2:19). For more on this see: <a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2013/05/what-must-i-believe-part-1.html">What Must I Believe Part 1</a></li>
</ol>
<h3>
<b>Summary of what the cross does mean to me:</b></h3>
<ol>
<li>Jesus said that His blood would be a new handshake, a new
promise, that our sins are forgiven. With His blood He is showing His
dedication of His love and commitment to us.</li>
<li>It was an act of death to the things of the world, and this brought true
life</li>
<li>We are to follow His example of putting our selfish ways to
death. We are to count ourselves dead to sin and alive to God</li>
<li>A place of victory over sin and death that we can participate
in. Jesus broke for us the power of death and brought for us life and
immortality.</li>
<li>A source of healing</li>
<li>A source of freedom from slavery</li>
<li>A ransom freeing us from the power of darkness</li>
<li>A ransom that justifies freely by his grace</li>
<li>A ransom that frees us from bondage to old religious laws</li>
<li>A place of adoption as children with full rights.</li>
<li>He delivered us from the power of darkness and transferred us
to His kingdom</li>
<li>The last sacrificial Lamb</li>
<li>A new birth for us into a living hope through His resurrection</li>
<li>A demonstration and example for us of extreme love for sinners</li>
<li>A hope for a future resurrection. The sting of death is sin,
and the power of sin is old religious laws. But thanks be to
God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus the anointed
King!</li>
<li>The message about the cross is a message of the power of God.</li>
</ol>
<br />
I find a lot of meaning in these verses. Some of these meanings hold a bit of mystery that is hard to comprehend. It has been good for me to put these thoughts together. I recognize many will see things differently, and I am OK with that too.<br />
<br />
I welcome any feedback.Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-41956824867017575212014-03-04T16:04:00.001-06:002014-03-04T16:04:29.944-06:00You are not far from the kingdom of God<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-89fO3BaKqFA/UxZM-tjGkiI/AAAAAAAAK5g/N3QDHcHGbns/s1600/commandment.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-89fO3BaKqFA/UxZM-tjGkiI/AAAAAAAAK5g/N3QDHcHGbns/s1600/commandment.jpg" height="299" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://www.flickr.com/photos/willhumes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I am continuing with post #53 of a series on the <a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2011/07/secrets-of-kingdom-summary.html">secrets of the kingdom</a>, (click link for a summary of passages considered so far). Taking a look today at:<div>
<br />
Mark 12:28-34 (NET)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?” “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” “Well said, teacher,” the man replied. “You are right in saying that God is one and there is no other but him. To love him with all your heart, with all your understanding and with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself is more important than all burnt offerings and sacrifices.” When Jesus saw that he had answered wisely, he said to him, “<b><i>You are not far from the kingdom of God</i></b>.” And from then on no one dared ask him any more questions."</blockquote>
Most religions have a tenancy to come up with many different rules to live by. Some of the rules may help guide people towards loving God and people better. Other rules may not. The parallel passage in Matthew 22:37-40 goes as far as saying all laws should be able to be summarized by these two statements.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
This passage paints a picture for me of a man on a journey who is approaching a kingdom. The kingdom isn't a typical earthly kingdom, but a domain ruled by the authority of God. This verse is one of a few that imply we can enter this kingdom now. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The expert in the law in this passage seems to understand the rules or parameters of the kingdom of God, however we are not told if he accepts and enters in. I suspect understanding the correct answer to this question isn't quite enough. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Some may be concerned about which comes first, the chicken or the egg. In this case does loving God and people get you into the kingdom of God? Or does living a life of love towards God and all others flow naturally when we are living under the reign of God? The later sounds safer theologically.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'd love to hear your thoughts.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-55311328804558205332014-02-25T19:53:00.000-06:002014-02-25T19:53:45.946-06:00Another Look At The Gospel According To The Gospels<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O8pjPyJG81Q/UwyUbZN5U9I/AAAAAAAAK5I/DYsm3d79TPc/s1600/Four_Evangelists_Jordaens_Louvre_Inv1404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O8pjPyJG81Q/UwyUbZN5U9I/AAAAAAAAK5I/DYsm3d79TPc/s1600/Four_Evangelists_Jordaens_Louvre_Inv1404.jpg" height="320" width="279" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Four_Evangelists_Jordaens_Louvre_Inv1404.jpg</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Three years ago I decided to do a study on what these books have to say about the gospel. I wondered: "Do we see the gospel clearly presented in each of the gospels?" Or did the gospel writers omit declaring the gospel with hopes we would find it elsewhere? <br />
<br />
Consider the following:<br />
<ul>
<li>Suppose there were eyewitnesses to the life, teachings, and death of Jesus.</li>
<li>Suppose they decided to write a books to share with others.</li>
<li>They would not assume their audience had access to other books about Jesus, so they would try to include all the important details.</li>
<li>They would hope that those who read their books would gain enough details to believe, trust, and follow Jesus as Lord and Savior.</li>
<li>Suppose they used the term gospel throughout their books.</li>
<li>Suppose they described Jesus and His disciples preaching the gospel. </li>
<li>Suppose they ended some of the books with a call encouraging others to share the gospel with the whole world.</li>
</ul>
<br />
I believe we have a few books of this nature.<br />
<br />
Here are links to six posts I put together as I went through these 4 books that frequently refer to the gospel. I'd love to hear your thoughts.<br />
<ol>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2010/11/gospel-in-gospels.html">Gospel in the Gospels</a> - introduction and some thoughts to consider</li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2010/11/gospel-in-matthew.html">Gospel in Matthew</a> - verses related to the term gospel in Matthew</li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2010/11/gospel-in-mark.html">Gospel in Mark</a> - verses related to the term gospel in Mark</li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2010/12/gospel-in-luke.html">Gospel in Luke</a> - verses related to the term gospel in Luke</li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2011/01/gospel-in-john.html">Gospel in John</a> - verses in John that that make similar points</li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2011/01/gospel-in-gospels-summary.html">Gospel in the Gospels - Summary</a></li>
</ol>
Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-8929936053124112762014-02-07T20:19:00.000-06:002014-02-07T20:33:00.148-06:00That Was Easy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1oWwB1M2LjA/UvWTFGaujvI/AAAAAAAAKwk/4yOyVmgIwp8/s1600/P2074070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1oWwB1M2LjA/UvWTFGaujvI/AAAAAAAAKwk/4yOyVmgIwp8/s1600/P2074070.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I want to emphasize some <b><i>easy to understand</i></b> principles of following Jesus.<br />
<br />
Sometimes the walk is tougher than the talk. But I'm afraid sometimes the talk is more complicated than it needs to be.<br />
<br />
As I've sorted through some stuff that has hurt my brain, I have come to some clarity on some simple thoughts.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
Easy to understand <b>essential beliefs:</b><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Trust in Jesus</i></b></div>
<br />
<br />
<div>
Easy to understand <b>how we should live:</b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Love God and love others.</i></b></div>
<br />
<br />
Easy to understand <b>how </b>we do that:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>The Holy Spirit does the work of the Holy Spirit.</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Easy to understand <b>disciple making:</b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>See one, do one, teach one.</b></i>
</div>
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>
Easy to understand <b>leadership</b>:
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Demonstrating to others how to follow.</b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
Easy to understand <b>church</b>:<br />
<div>
<br />
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>Get together with other followers to encourage each other to follow Jesus.</i></b><br />
<div>
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div>
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Easy to understand <b>church unity:</b><br />
<div>
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>There is one church, it meets in many different places and times.</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
I'm simply organizing some simple thoughts on what I think it means to follow Jesus. <br />
<br />
I'm not claiming that living in this reality is easy.<br />
<br />
I'd love to hear your thoughts? Have I missed any big ones?<br />
.<br />
<br />
Here are some less easy to understand related posts if you want to understand the more complex process I took to come to a place of seeing things so simply:<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2013/05/what-must-i-believe-part-1.html">What Must I Believe Part 1</a> - 6 part series looking at passages related to essential beliefs</li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2012/11/what-does-it-look-like-to-follow-christ.html">What Does It Look Like To Follow Christ?</a> - relating to love, and the work of the Holy Spirit</li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2009/03/love-is-essential.html">Love is Essential</a> - passages that speak to love being the greatest commandment</li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2011/06/church-etymology.html">Church Etymology</a> - what does church mean?</li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2011/06/church-etymology.html">Recent Church Activities</a> - examples of simple church activities</li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2012/11/see-one-do-one-teach-one.html">See One, Do One, Teach One</a> - disciple making</li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2012/11/leading-way.html">Leading The Way</a> - what Jesus said on the topic of leadership, and a look at other passages</li>
</ul>
<div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-32459929043859218812014-01-25T10:48:00.001-06:002014-01-25T10:53:17.261-06:00Recent Church Activities<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yTu2loTh0nw/UuPnOJNPdGI/AAAAAAAAKvE/7yr9w-vyxss/s1600/churchActivities.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yTu2loTh0nw/UuPnOJNPdGI/AAAAAAAAKvE/7yr9w-vyxss/s1600/churchActivities.jpg" height="221" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
People use the term 'church' in various ways. When I speak of church I try to refer to Christ followers in the plural. Period. The New Testament church seems to be whenever 2 or more believers assemble together.<br />
<br />
To clarify what church means to me, I'll share some recent examples I've had with believers gathering together.<br />
<br />
1) Every day I gather with my wife and two children. We gather around meals. We pray. Some days we read the the Bible together. Some days we sing. We discuss each others questions about God, life, and how we should live. We encourage each other to become more like Christ. These church activities rank high in my priorities at our current stage in life.<br />
<br />
2) Our family has gotten together with two families that have come from a background of being employed by institutional 'churches' and now find themselves seeking to follow God outside those walls. We eat together. We share stories together. We help each other honestly and openly wrestle with issues we don't understand. We encourage each other. We have shared Scripture with each other. We have watched videos together. We may even sing together next time we get together. We have only gotten together a few times, but I pray our gatherings encourage each of us to become more like Christ.<br />
<br />
3) We get together with my wife's parents regularly. They are an encouragement to us. They are examples for our family as they have dedicated their lives to sharing Jesus with others, specifically people with Muslim backgrounds. We eat together. Pray together. Share life together, and hopefully encourage each other to become more like Christ.<br />
<br />
4) Through facebook I sort of get together with a group who is reading through the New Testament this year. Each day we read a chapter on our own, and share our thoughts with each other through a private facebook page. We are only a few weeks in, but I am encouraged by how these reading speak to each of us, and we can teach one another as each of us are being taught by God as we read the Scriptures.<br />
<br />
5) Some other internet activities may count as well. I have watched some videos where Christ followers have shared their experiences and understanding of God. I have read some articles, and listened to podcasts. I have interacted with some Christians through emails, blogs, twitter, facebook, and more.<br />
<br />
6) I get together with different Christ followers at my workplace, and in my carpool to work. There are a few in particular that often engage in spiritual conversations with me. We share the highs and lows of our spiritual journey, and life in general. I pray whenever I get together with other Christ followers we can encourage each other to become more like Christ - even at work.<br />
<br />
7) I get together with lots of Christ followers most Sundays. There is a 'Sunday School' time where we typically watch a movie and have some conversations about the topic. There is a singing time. There is a sermon. There is some time between where we can talk with other Christ followers and be an encouragement to each other.<br />
<br />
8) We have gotten together with other Christ followers this month as well. It is hard to list them all. We have been in a few people's homes, and have had a few people in our home. It has been really cold this month, so we haven't done much outdoors. But in warmer months we get together with believers outdoors as well. Tonight we are having a few families over to eat pizza and watch a hockey game. I pray we can encourage each other to become more like Christ.<br />
<br />
I've likely missed something. <br />
<br />
I would encourage you to think about the different activities or interactions you have with Christ's church.<br />
<br />
I'd also encourage you to consider your purpose with getting together with other believers. In Scripture we see different activities occurring when the church assembled. What activities are of most value to you at your stage of growth? What activities are of value for the others you are gathering with?<br />
<br />
Hebrews 10:23-25 (NIV)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another and all the more as you see the Day approaching. "</blockquote>
<br />
Note: These instructions for meeting together are sandwiched between two 'one another' commands. May we be mindful of the relational interactions when we gather as well.<br />
<br />
Related Posts:<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2011/06/church-etymology.html">Church Etymology</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2011/09/my-role-with-church.html">My Role with Church</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2011/09/recognize-christs-church.html">Recognize Church</a></li>
</ul>
Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-28684683656345202892014-01-21T17:08:00.000-06:002014-01-21T17:08:31.848-06:00Repost: We finally Got The Bible Right<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://30.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lqwjokBrOP1qii52vo1_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://30.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lqwjokBrOP1qii52vo1_1280.jpg" height="507" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">source: <a href="http://stthomasthedoubter.tumblr.com/">http://stthomasthedoubter.tumblr.com</a></span><br />
<br />
"So this is where our movement came along and finally got the Bible right."<br />
<br />
"Jesus is so lucky to have us"<br />
<br />
This cartoon made me laugh, yet it should make us cry. Being the week of prayer for Christian Unity, I hope we can recognize how wrong and arrogant an attitude like this would be.<br />
<br />
Maybe church unity has less to do with church denominations or movements, but everything to do with the church (the people). Denominations may do a good job promoting unity on a local scale, but they may do so at the expense of creating divisions with those outside their circle.<br />
<br />
On the other hand, if Christ's church is simply people, whenever they get together- the way church seems to be defined in the New Testament... Church unity becomes easier to recognize without the 'us vs them' mentality.<br />
<br />
I'd love to hear your thoughts.<br />
<br />
Related Posts:<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2009/02/unity-is-essential.html">Unity is Essential</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2010/01/95-thesis-1-unity.html">My 95 Thesis - Point 1 - Unity</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2012/01/pray-for-kingdom-unity.html">Pray for Kingdom Unity?</a> </li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2011/06/who-says-we-are-divided.html">Who says we are divided?</a> </li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.com/2011/06/clarification-what-is-essential.html">Clarification: What is essential?</a> </li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2011/07/divided-kingdom.html">Divided Kingdom</a> </li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2012/01/prayer-for-christian-unity.html">Prayer For Christian Unity</a></li>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2011/06/church-etymology.html">Church Etymology</a> </li>
</ul>
Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-51610044797928849162014-01-20T18:53:00.001-06:002014-01-20T18:53:51.419-06:00United Prayer For Peace in Syria<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sxeCuIT0yKs/Ut3DpaVizwI/AAAAAAAAKus/gb2YJ3F591k/s1600/the-world-council-of-churches.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sxeCuIT0yKs/Ut3DpaVizwI/AAAAAAAAKus/gb2YJ3F591k/s1600/the-world-council-of-churches.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I'm wondering what it would be like to be part of the minority Christian church in Syria these days. <br />
<br />
Here are some quotes from recent news. An example of Christian unity, during the week of prayer for Christian unity. All Christians around the world can stand with our Syrian brothers and sisters and pray for peace in Syria.<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"Church leaders and representatives from Syria, the Middle East Council of Churches, the World Council of Churches and the Holy See gathered in Geneva from 15–17 January 2014 for a consultation to address the forthcoming Geneva II peace conference on Syria."</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"A statement from churches around the world urging an end to the armed conflict in Syria... was presented to Lakhdar Brahimi, the United Nations-Arab League joint representative for Syria, by the World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Dr Olav Fykse Tveit today in Geneva, 20 January."</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"Christians have maintained a continuous presence in the land of Syria since the dawn of Christianity. Today, as churches and church-related humanitarian agencies, we are present with the people of Syria on a daily basis both inside the country and amongst refugees. In this communication, we seek to raise their voice."</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"As Christians we speak with one voice in calling for a just peace in Syria. To achieve this peace, we are committed to working hand-in-hand with Muslim sisters and brothers, with whom we share a common history along with spiritual and social values. We seek to work for national reconciliation and healing through building trust."</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
“Blessed are the peacemakers” (Matthew 5:9).</blockquote>
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"The meeting was accompanied by an ecumenical prayer held on the evening of 16 January, also joined by the members of the international community to express their solidarity with the people of Syria, expressing hopes for peace in the country."</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"The service drew attention to the great antiquity of the Christian presence in Syria, as well as the commitment of Syria's Christians, inspired by the New Testament to transform violence and oppression into healing and reconciliation."</blockquote>
<br />
http://www.oikoumene.org/en/press-centre/news/wcc-presents-lakhdar-brahimi-with-statement-from-churches-to-be-delivered-at-geneva-2-talks<br />
<br />
http://www.oikoumene.org/en/press-centre/news/joint-representative-for-syria-to-deliver-urgent-call-from-churches-to-geneva-2-talks<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2203174451356862507.post-15951171780160832692014-01-19T15:15:00.003-06:002014-01-19T15:21:56.382-06:00Evangelicals and Catholics Together<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 19.200000762939453px;">As this week is the week of prayer for Christian unity, I thought I'd share this. In 1994 a group of evangelical and Roman Catholic scholars put their names to a document affirming common beliefs and more. As expected, there were critics on either side who did not agreed with every word put in this document. But I think it leads as an example of recognizing unity where some would not expect to find it.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 19.200000762939453px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 19.200000762939453px;">Here is a short quote:</span><br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"Jesus Christ is Lord. That is the first and final affirmation that Christians make about all of reality. He is the One sent by God to be Lord and Savior of all: "And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." (Acts 4) Christians are people ahead of time, those who proclaim now what will one day be acknowledged by all, that Jesus Christ is Lord. (Philippians 2) We affirm together that we are justified by grace through faith because of Christ. Living faith is active in love that is nothing less than the love of Christ, for we together say with Paul: "I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me; and the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." (Galatians 2) All who accept Christ as Lord and Savior are brothers and sisters in Christ. Evangelicals and Catholics are brothers and sisters in Christ."</blockquote>
<br />
The full document can be found here:<br />
<a href="http://www.leaderu.com/ftissues/ft9405/articles/mission.html">http://www.leaderu.com/ftissues/ft9405/articles/mission.html</a><br />
<br />
I pray that Christians would learn to recognize their brothers and sisters, and offer grace where differences seem insurmountable.<br />
<br />
Related Post:<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://jonjourney.blogspot.ca/2009/02/unity-is-essential.html">Unity is Essential</a></li>
</ul>
<br /><br />Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01266729238990589293noreply@blogger.com0