Genesis 3:6, "So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree desirable to make one wise, she took of it's fruit and ate. She also gave to her husband with her, and he ate."
As the news footage of the uprising in Egypt and all across the middle east continues to roll in, a fundamental question has arisen regarding the future of this most unstable of all regions of the earth: Do not all people have the right to self determination? It is a question that goes to the heart of the human condition. Should we all not have the right to the free will God gave us as creatures made in His image? As a matter of public policy since the United States military involvement in the region escalated to full fledged war after 9/11, the official government position has been we are aiming to stoke the fires of democracy across this region known for totalitarian governments and despots as rulers. Israel is the only true democracy in the Middle East, even Iraq has not made that transition fully. So what are the ramifications of self determination, of freedom of choice, in a region ruled by extremist points of view?
In theory, democracy is the most noble form of human government. The people hold the power to install the type of leadership they desire. But whether it be a representative democratic republic, like the United States, or a true democracy where the people make the decisions for themselves, this form of government rule is wholly dependent upon the belief that mankind is basically good; and will choose what is best for himself and his kindred. Is this faith in our fellow man well placed however?
Genesis 3:6 clearly teaches us man will not always, and in many cases, almost never choose what is best for himself, no matter how clear the choice seems to be. Adam and Eve were the most fortunate people ever to walk the earth. Other than Christ, they were the only one's who ever managed to live a portion of their lives in the perfect will of God. They lived in the paradise the bible calls Eden. They "walked and talked" with God Himself. They had been given clear instruction that both understood completely regarding the eating of the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Yet when confronted with the devious devices of evil, they rejected all that was good, and chose evil. They chose disobedience and sin. As a result of their choice, all of mankind since has been born into sin. We pay the price for their rebellion, and are sinners from the moment of our first breath.
You do not have to teach a child to lie, it comes naturally. You do not have to teach a child to rebel, it is instinctive. You do not have to teach a child to become angry, or lust, or covet. These things are born into them as part of the sin nature. When faced with the choice between good and evil, the natural man, quite naturally, chooses evil. So what should we expect from all of this chaos in the middle east?
The United States is supposed to be the model. A bastion of liberty on which we hope the whole world will model itself. But liberty is a two-edged sword. While the desire for freedom is also a an inalienable, God given right. The consequences of liberty are both good and bad. The United States claims to recognize the rights of all of it's citizens, but bloody wars and civil uprising had to occur to insure this for blacks and minorities. These rights have been taken away from the most vulnerable among us, the unborn child, and nearly 60 million abortions/murders have occurred since 1973 in the name of freedom of choice. We have the liberty to serve God and others, or to serve ourselves and our desire for pleasure. Which occurs more frequently today? We have the liberty to choose our own representatives, yet most Americans vote blindly, failing to educate themselves on even the smallest of details regarding whom they cast their votes for. So why should we expect those in the middle east to choose any more wisely than we have?
On Monday I opined in my blog that the United States is in a no win situation with what is occurring in the middle east today. Oppose the desire for self determination and support despots who rule as though they were God and oppress individual liberty, and we turn our backs on our own self declared beliefs. Support the protesters and the right of self determination, and we risk most assuredly the rise of radical elements that most surely will be more evil and dangerous than those who currently rule. Once again God has shown us, only He is sovereign. And only in choosing Him can we insure personal liberty is a positive force, and not one that brings both great good but potentially even greater evil.
What is happening in the middle east today is the same thing that happened in the garden at Eden years and years ago. Mankind is faced with a choice. A choice, most assuredly, that God has given them, but nonetheless, a choice. Is our faith in mankind and our desire for personal liberty, bringing both the pros and cons of those decisions, well placed? Not if the history of man is any indication.
You see, it is only faith in God, in Jesus Christ, that brings about wisdom and wise decisions. And even then, as Adam and Eve proved, the reality of being deceived and choosing evil is ever present. God's word indicated the strife now occurring in the middle east is a continuation of God's eternal plan. Israel, Jerusalem and the middle east region are ground zero for the battle between good and evil. Everything that is happening will serve God's already written story for the fate of His most beloved creation, us.
If Egypt, and the other nations now or soon to be embroiled in this battle for personal freedom choose wisely and choose God's way, the region could enjoy a new found peace. Not only in terms of human rights and bondage, but in the open door that personal freedom would provide for the spread of the gospel, religious freedom, and the peace only Christ can provide. If as Adam and Eve, the devil deceives, and the wrong choices are made, all forms of peace, both between nations and with God, will disintegrate before our very eyes.
The bible tells us that the "heart of man is deceitfully wicked."(Jeremiah 17:9) The word of God declares that "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God."(Romans 3:23) Their is only one path to true liberty and freedom, Jesus Christ. "Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed."(John 8:36) Unless His way is chosen, mankind's record of self determination is filled with the choice of evil over good, even in it's best intentions, like the United States. The implications of a democratic middle east are self evident in the economy of God. Choose Him, or "the wages of sin is death."(Romans 6:23) Faith in mankind is a misplaced hope. Only faith in God can bring about true freedom. Do we really believe this is the choice that will be made?
Friday, February 4, 2011
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
The U.S. and Middle East Turmoil
Daniel 2:21, "And He changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings; He gives wisdom to the wise, and knowledge to those who have understanding."
For the last several weeks national news has been more and more filled with protests and turmoil from the middle east. What started in Tunisia in mid-December and then moved to Yemen has come to crisis level in Egypt this last week. While most of the secular media seems eager to portray this as political unrest, their is no denying that all of the turmoil we see in the middle east right now stems from the desire of Islamic fundamentalists to gain political power and install regimes that would be anti-American and even more anti-Israel. It places the United States in basically an un-winnable position: support authoritarian regimes that are secular yet repress people, or allow an Islamic revolution to occur that would empower radical elements who repress people and would be clear enemies of the U.S. Either way, whether in the short term through these governments being fully overthrown, or in the long term, by further stoking Islamic opposition and radicalism, the U.S. and Israel will lose.
This may seem quite defeatist. Surely a nation as powerful as the United States can apply influence to calm these fires of rebellion and maintain the precarious peace, lack of all out war, that exists in the middle east, can't we? Not if history and the scriptures are any indication. The fires of revolution are erupting all across the Islamic world, not just in these countries that are getting the headlines right now. Turkey, once a secular ally of the U.S. and Israel, has been taken over through peaceful means and now boasts a fundamentalist Islamic regime. Lebanon just this month became a state completely controlled by the terrorist group Hezbollah. Pakistan is in the midst of an Islamic revolt fueled by the Al-Queda elements hiding from our troops in Afghanistan where this battle has been raging for 10 years. The Palestinian conflict is nowhere near resolution. Iraq since the withdraw of most of our troops, is sliding toward a more radical Islamic attitude. Iran is the gas that's igniting these fires. Jordan, along with Egypt, the strongest ally of the U.S. and Israel in the middle east is experiencing the embers of this same sort of uprising. Across the globe, radical enemies of the U.S. and Israel are ascending to power, and we appear powerless to stop it.
In Egypt, where a peace treaty with Israel has been effective for 30 years, the transfer of power appears imminent. President(dictator) Hasni Mubarak, who has maintained the peace with Israel and been an ally of the U.S. in the middle east, will not remain in power. Unlike the armies that it brought against Israel in the 1967 war, Egypt has a military establishment now that has been reinforced by the United States for these last 30 years and is now at least technologically close with that of Israel, and has far more manpower. The one who appears to be poised to eventually take power, Muhammad el Baradai, is the same former U.N. representative who shielded and denied Iran's nuclear program for years. He has stated publicly that when he ascends to power he will formally recognize the terrorist group Hamas in Gaza on Israel's southern border. Egypt will once again become an active, instead of a passive enemy of Israel and the U.S. even if it begins behind the scenes. Jordan, the only other middle eastern nation with a peace agreement with Israel, is poised to follow this same path to Islamic extremism. If, when, Egypt and Jordan fall, Israel will be fully surrounded by publicly declared enemies.
The consequences for Israel in all of this turmoil are obvious. They face an enemy whose stated goal is to drive the nation into the sea and eliminate the state of Israel and as much as possible, the Jewish people. This is a doctrine straight from the pits of hell, as Satan has tried this many times in the past. But what are the consequences for the U.S., and what will we do?
As I stated earlier, I believe this is a no win situation. If Egypt falls, and the Suez canal is affected impacting the flow of oil from Saudi Arabia, the immediate impact could be a huge spike in oil and gas prices. While the devastation on our economy this would cause would be serious, it is not remotely the worst that could come of this. The current administration has already shown a pattern of backing away from Israel as a staunch ally. What would the consequences be if for economic stability we fully withdrew support from Israel to keep the oil flowing? Israel, armed with it's own nuclear arsenal, could be placed in a position where it is largely outnumbered and may have no other choice than to tactically defend itself with weapons of mass destruction. Basically, we're talking World War III. For those who believe the bible as God's inerrant word, the promise of God in Genesis 12:3 would be tested. Here God promises to bless those who bless the chosen descendants of Abraham, through Issac and Jacob. Those descendants are the Jewish people. He also promises to curse those who curse those descendants. As one who believes this, I contend the wrath of God, through natural and supernatural means would be turned upon our nation.
This blog is written as an observation of these events. As a Christian, I believe their is only one solution to these problems, and it is not a political or military one. I do not believe their is a human means of resolution to these issues. The world scoffs at this point of view, but it is what the bible teaches. One day Antichrist will bring a false peace that lasts 3 1/2 years, but that is merely a prelude to the one solution that will triumph. That solution is Jesus. The only problem for the unbelieving world with that point of view is that the bible clearly states that these problems will not be resolved until Christ Himself returns to establish His kingdom. That is a truth I rejoice in and look forward to. But for those who do not know Christ, it is a day of judgment.
So how should we take solace in these events that almost surely will lead to eventual global chaos? The verses in Daniel that begin this blog are where we should rest. Whatever we see happening, we must have faith, that even though the forces that appear to be coming to more and more power clearly oppose the God of the bible and do not represent His holy will, these events are being allowed to occur through His permissive will. They will further the march toward His kingdom. Our God is sovereign and in control, even when it appears He is not. "All things work to the good for those who love God." Even things which appear to be throwing our world into a time of crisis we have never seen, where nuclear conflict will be a major threat and player. As ludicrous as this may sound to those who read it and do not believe the words of scripture, the holy bible has foretold all of the coming conflict. The only way to truly have peace is to come to faith in Jesus Christ. Do you know Him? Have you been "born again" in Christ? Do you have peace even in the midst of the fiery furnace? If you do not, I implore you to receive Jesus into your heart; confess, repent and ask forgiveness for your sins; and follow the one true "King of Kings," and "Lord of Lords." Jesus told us that in this world, we would have "tribulations." But He has overcome the world. The only way we can overcome, is through Jesus.
For the last several weeks national news has been more and more filled with protests and turmoil from the middle east. What started in Tunisia in mid-December and then moved to Yemen has come to crisis level in Egypt this last week. While most of the secular media seems eager to portray this as political unrest, their is no denying that all of the turmoil we see in the middle east right now stems from the desire of Islamic fundamentalists to gain political power and install regimes that would be anti-American and even more anti-Israel. It places the United States in basically an un-winnable position: support authoritarian regimes that are secular yet repress people, or allow an Islamic revolution to occur that would empower radical elements who repress people and would be clear enemies of the U.S. Either way, whether in the short term through these governments being fully overthrown, or in the long term, by further stoking Islamic opposition and radicalism, the U.S. and Israel will lose.
This may seem quite defeatist. Surely a nation as powerful as the United States can apply influence to calm these fires of rebellion and maintain the precarious peace, lack of all out war, that exists in the middle east, can't we? Not if history and the scriptures are any indication. The fires of revolution are erupting all across the Islamic world, not just in these countries that are getting the headlines right now. Turkey, once a secular ally of the U.S. and Israel, has been taken over through peaceful means and now boasts a fundamentalist Islamic regime. Lebanon just this month became a state completely controlled by the terrorist group Hezbollah. Pakistan is in the midst of an Islamic revolt fueled by the Al-Queda elements hiding from our troops in Afghanistan where this battle has been raging for 10 years. The Palestinian conflict is nowhere near resolution. Iraq since the withdraw of most of our troops, is sliding toward a more radical Islamic attitude. Iran is the gas that's igniting these fires. Jordan, along with Egypt, the strongest ally of the U.S. and Israel in the middle east is experiencing the embers of this same sort of uprising. Across the globe, radical enemies of the U.S. and Israel are ascending to power, and we appear powerless to stop it.
In Egypt, where a peace treaty with Israel has been effective for 30 years, the transfer of power appears imminent. President(dictator) Hasni Mubarak, who has maintained the peace with Israel and been an ally of the U.S. in the middle east, will not remain in power. Unlike the armies that it brought against Israel in the 1967 war, Egypt has a military establishment now that has been reinforced by the United States for these last 30 years and is now at least technologically close with that of Israel, and has far more manpower. The one who appears to be poised to eventually take power, Muhammad el Baradai, is the same former U.N. representative who shielded and denied Iran's nuclear program for years. He has stated publicly that when he ascends to power he will formally recognize the terrorist group Hamas in Gaza on Israel's southern border. Egypt will once again become an active, instead of a passive enemy of Israel and the U.S. even if it begins behind the scenes. Jordan, the only other middle eastern nation with a peace agreement with Israel, is poised to follow this same path to Islamic extremism. If, when, Egypt and Jordan fall, Israel will be fully surrounded by publicly declared enemies.
The consequences for Israel in all of this turmoil are obvious. They face an enemy whose stated goal is to drive the nation into the sea and eliminate the state of Israel and as much as possible, the Jewish people. This is a doctrine straight from the pits of hell, as Satan has tried this many times in the past. But what are the consequences for the U.S., and what will we do?
As I stated earlier, I believe this is a no win situation. If Egypt falls, and the Suez canal is affected impacting the flow of oil from Saudi Arabia, the immediate impact could be a huge spike in oil and gas prices. While the devastation on our economy this would cause would be serious, it is not remotely the worst that could come of this. The current administration has already shown a pattern of backing away from Israel as a staunch ally. What would the consequences be if for economic stability we fully withdrew support from Israel to keep the oil flowing? Israel, armed with it's own nuclear arsenal, could be placed in a position where it is largely outnumbered and may have no other choice than to tactically defend itself with weapons of mass destruction. Basically, we're talking World War III. For those who believe the bible as God's inerrant word, the promise of God in Genesis 12:3 would be tested. Here God promises to bless those who bless the chosen descendants of Abraham, through Issac and Jacob. Those descendants are the Jewish people. He also promises to curse those who curse those descendants. As one who believes this, I contend the wrath of God, through natural and supernatural means would be turned upon our nation.
This blog is written as an observation of these events. As a Christian, I believe their is only one solution to these problems, and it is not a political or military one. I do not believe their is a human means of resolution to these issues. The world scoffs at this point of view, but it is what the bible teaches. One day Antichrist will bring a false peace that lasts 3 1/2 years, but that is merely a prelude to the one solution that will triumph. That solution is Jesus. The only problem for the unbelieving world with that point of view is that the bible clearly states that these problems will not be resolved until Christ Himself returns to establish His kingdom. That is a truth I rejoice in and look forward to. But for those who do not know Christ, it is a day of judgment.
So how should we take solace in these events that almost surely will lead to eventual global chaos? The verses in Daniel that begin this blog are where we should rest. Whatever we see happening, we must have faith, that even though the forces that appear to be coming to more and more power clearly oppose the God of the bible and do not represent His holy will, these events are being allowed to occur through His permissive will. They will further the march toward His kingdom. Our God is sovereign and in control, even when it appears He is not. "All things work to the good for those who love God." Even things which appear to be throwing our world into a time of crisis we have never seen, where nuclear conflict will be a major threat and player. As ludicrous as this may sound to those who read it and do not believe the words of scripture, the holy bible has foretold all of the coming conflict. The only way to truly have peace is to come to faith in Jesus Christ. Do you know Him? Have you been "born again" in Christ? Do you have peace even in the midst of the fiery furnace? If you do not, I implore you to receive Jesus into your heart; confess, repent and ask forgiveness for your sins; and follow the one true "King of Kings," and "Lord of Lords." Jesus told us that in this world, we would have "tribulations." But He has overcome the world. The only way we can overcome, is through Jesus.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Joel Osteen's Moment of Truth
Anyone who knows me also knows I am not a fan of Joel Osteen. Osteen, the handsome, ever smiling purveyor of a self help, get rich, be the best you can be gospel has been the poster boy for what is wrong with God's church today. Osteen, who refuses to preach on sin, or hell, or anything that the world could perceive as negative, has built his own earthly kingdom by tickling ears and avoiding the true gospel message. As a result of his man-pleasing message Osteen currently "pastor's" the largest "church" in the United States in Houston, Texas and has amassed a huge fortune for himself. But recently, this master of telling people what they want to hear, was cornered into stating a doctrinal truth that offends the sensibilities of the world. Osteen declared on CNN's "Piers Morgan Tonight" that he believes, according to the Scriptures, that homosexuality is sin.
While this truth is plainly evident to anyone who reads the bible and accepts it for what it actually says, for Osteen to actually say this is pleasantly surprising. Osteen avoids doctrinal stands like politicians avoid the truth, but when cornered by Morgan on this CNN show, Osteen turned to scripture for his answer. Osteen's adamant and scriptural response was, "Yes, I've always believed, Peirs, the scriptures show that homosexuality is a sin." Now this is something I never thought I would say, but AMEN! Joel Osteen!
Morgan pressed Osteen, truly attacking his position, and while Osteen did not boldly turn to the Scriptures for proof, he did not however back away from his position. CNN later made this into a huge story that almost surely will continue, as other than Rick Warren, Osteen is the most prominent religious figure in our country right now.
Now I could look to the past and ask why it has taken Osteen this long to state a clear truth, to take a stand on the word of God. I could rightfully and accurately point to his sermons, books, lectures, and previous TV interviews and decry his lack of speaking with biblical authority. I'm not going to do that though. I want to look forward to what the future may hold for Osteen, for this was his moment of truth.
The way I see it, Osteen has 2 options. He can either stand on the word of God, and in doing so, be forced to take other stands that will surely displease his followers and the media that has elevated him to his prominent position, or; he can back track and claim some new revelation like so many other "pastors" today and claim he was wrong. In this moment of truth, we will see just what Osteen is made of.
If he takes this biblical stand, and the others that will surely follow, he will lose church members, TV ratings, media exposure and money. If he backtracks, he can become even more popular in the world he so often seeks to please. At this moment we need to be in sincere prayer for Joel Osteen. He is a man with a large audience and an opportunity that few others have to proclaim the true gospel of Jesus Christ. While finally taking this stand will cost him here on earth, it could mean millions of people hearing the gospel truth. But anyone who truly follows Christ knows their will be a cost here on earth.
Osteen is in a transformational moment. For all of the damage he has done, he has a true chance to repent and return to the God he claims to serve. Is he willing to suffer the cost of doing this? I certainly pray he is. Through the medium of the media that has so promoted Osteen, he is now trapped and must make a choice: Jesus or the world; treasures in heaven or treasures here on earth. If he chooses to truly serve God, oh what an influence he could have.
Paul once persecuted the church. Peter denied Christ 3 times. Many men of God have faced this sort of choice when confronted with the truth. Which direction will Osteen choose? Will he choose to begin calling sin what the bible calls sin? Or will he seek a way out from under this mountain of negativity? As critical as I personally have been of Joel Osteen for what I perceive as his abandonment of the truth, I am with all of my soul praying he takes this stand, and the others that will surely come.
We must acknowledge the truth of the bible, and boldly proclaim it. It is through the "foolishness" of preaching that God has chosen for souls to be converted. We must understand that Christ has not come "to bring peace," but rather to "divide," and God's word is the dividing line. As much as we in our sin may seek to avoid the truth, God has already identified what sin is and the consequences of living in it. It is the kingdom of God that is at stake for the people who reject God's truth. Mr. Osteen, I pray that this moment of truth is your transformational encounter with Christ. In the near future the whole world will know who you serve; the True and Living God, or the world and yourself. My prayers are with you Joel.
While this truth is plainly evident to anyone who reads the bible and accepts it for what it actually says, for Osteen to actually say this is pleasantly surprising. Osteen avoids doctrinal stands like politicians avoid the truth, but when cornered by Morgan on this CNN show, Osteen turned to scripture for his answer. Osteen's adamant and scriptural response was, "Yes, I've always believed, Peirs, the scriptures show that homosexuality is a sin." Now this is something I never thought I would say, but AMEN! Joel Osteen!
Morgan pressed Osteen, truly attacking his position, and while Osteen did not boldly turn to the Scriptures for proof, he did not however back away from his position. CNN later made this into a huge story that almost surely will continue, as other than Rick Warren, Osteen is the most prominent religious figure in our country right now.
Now I could look to the past and ask why it has taken Osteen this long to state a clear truth, to take a stand on the word of God. I could rightfully and accurately point to his sermons, books, lectures, and previous TV interviews and decry his lack of speaking with biblical authority. I'm not going to do that though. I want to look forward to what the future may hold for Osteen, for this was his moment of truth.
The way I see it, Osteen has 2 options. He can either stand on the word of God, and in doing so, be forced to take other stands that will surely displease his followers and the media that has elevated him to his prominent position, or; he can back track and claim some new revelation like so many other "pastors" today and claim he was wrong. In this moment of truth, we will see just what Osteen is made of.
If he takes this biblical stand, and the others that will surely follow, he will lose church members, TV ratings, media exposure and money. If he backtracks, he can become even more popular in the world he so often seeks to please. At this moment we need to be in sincere prayer for Joel Osteen. He is a man with a large audience and an opportunity that few others have to proclaim the true gospel of Jesus Christ. While finally taking this stand will cost him here on earth, it could mean millions of people hearing the gospel truth. But anyone who truly follows Christ knows their will be a cost here on earth.
Osteen is in a transformational moment. For all of the damage he has done, he has a true chance to repent and return to the God he claims to serve. Is he willing to suffer the cost of doing this? I certainly pray he is. Through the medium of the media that has so promoted Osteen, he is now trapped and must make a choice: Jesus or the world; treasures in heaven or treasures here on earth. If he chooses to truly serve God, oh what an influence he could have.
Paul once persecuted the church. Peter denied Christ 3 times. Many men of God have faced this sort of choice when confronted with the truth. Which direction will Osteen choose? Will he choose to begin calling sin what the bible calls sin? Or will he seek a way out from under this mountain of negativity? As critical as I personally have been of Joel Osteen for what I perceive as his abandonment of the truth, I am with all of my soul praying he takes this stand, and the others that will surely come.
We must acknowledge the truth of the bible, and boldly proclaim it. It is through the "foolishness" of preaching that God has chosen for souls to be converted. We must understand that Christ has not come "to bring peace," but rather to "divide," and God's word is the dividing line. As much as we in our sin may seek to avoid the truth, God has already identified what sin is and the consequences of living in it. It is the kingdom of God that is at stake for the people who reject God's truth. Mr. Osteen, I pray that this moment of truth is your transformational encounter with Christ. In the near future the whole world will know who you serve; the True and Living God, or the world and yourself. My prayers are with you Joel.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
The Study of Prophecy
At the beginning of January we began a study of the book of Daniel at Oakland Baptist Church. Daniel is a remarkable book, teaching doctrine and aspects of Godly, sacrificial living that have excellent application to us today. But Daniel is best known for it's prophecies regarding "latter days," as it paints an allegorical picture of things that will yet unfold on planet earth. But the teaching of prophecy can be a confusing thing. So how should we best go about it?
Their are many so-called prophecy teachers in Christendom today. Many are out and out charlatans. They apply personal opinion and and the world to the bible, instead of applying the bible to their opinion and the world. The result is an amalgamation of views that can be thoroughly misleading. But their are basic principles in interpreting prophecy that can help us avoid all of the confusion.
Allegory is when God uses symbols to communicate a message. Some famous symbols in prophecy are a "woman" riding a "beast" from Revelation 17 and in the book of Daniel, the image that appears to King Nebuchadnezzar in a dream in Daniel chapter 2. So how are we to know what these symbols represent? Well, in many cases God will interpret the symbolism for us. In Daniel 2 Daniel reveals to the king that he is the head of gold on the image, representing the kingdom of Babylon. The kingdoms that are represented by the rest of the image are revealed to us by history, except for the feet of iron and clay which has yet to come. God also gives us the interpretation of Revelation 17 in the text of that chapter. This is an important lesson. Their is only one tool that is essential to interpreting biblical prophecy, and that is the bible. We must let the bible interpret itself for us.
The bible will do this as the symbols will remain consistent. If a certain symbol means one thing in one place of scripture, it will mean the same thing in another place in scripture. Leaven is always a picture of sin and false doctrine when used in allegory. Birds, other than eagles and doves, are a picture of evil and Satan. A woman is a picture of a religious system. If we use this consistent mode of interpretation it reveals exactly what God is trying to reveal to us through the word pictures He is giving us.
One of the best examples of this occurs in Revelation 12 and Genesis 37. In Revelation 12 we see a woman cloaked in the sun, the moon and the stars. Some claim that this woman represents Mary, mother of Jesus. Some cult leaders have claimed that it has represented themselves. But what does the bible say? Well we see the image of the sun, moon and stars in only one other place in scripture, Genesis 37:9. And in Genesis 37 it is Jacob himself who interprets this for us in verse 10, where he says the sun represents Rachel, the moon himself and the stars the brothers of Joseph, which will later become the tribes of Israel. Since we know a woman represents a religious system, and in Revelation 12 she is giving birth to a child(Messiah), this picture in Revelation 12 can only be Israel, who as a nation Jesus comes forth from.
Only the bible can interpret the bible accurately, and we must allow God to tell us what certain symbols mean instead of trying to make them mean what we desire them to mean. Many prophecy teachers are guilty of teaching on things that have yet to occur dogmatically, stating that such things as the European Union is the reformed Roman empire we see pictured by the feet and toes of Daniel chapter 2 and Nebuchadnezzar's dream. Could the EU be this? Yes, it could. But until it happens we cannot be sure. And to state as fact a minute detail that has yet to occur is yet another way some prophecy teachers mislead people. God gives us a general outline in prophecy of things that will occur. He does not go in to minute detail. This is why it is so important to allow Him to tell us what He has chosen too, and not state as fact an opinion we may hold that at the moment may fit the prophecy. We can state it as opinion, but not as fact. Only God truly knows exactly how His plan will eventually take shape.
The study of prophecy is a much needed thing in the church today. It reveals to us through fulfilled prophecy that the bible is the only true word of God, as only God can predict the future without error. It allows us to share with others the fate that awaits those who do not know Jesus Christ as Savior. But we must stay true to what the bible tells us, and not engage in rampant speculation stated as fact. If we will honor God's word and let it tell it's story, we'll find the study of prophecy an exciting journey in our faith. If we do not, we'll wind up confused and disappointed when things we may have heard or believed simply do not transpire. When studying prophecy, let God tell us what He will; apply the bible to the world and not vice versa; and when stating opinion make sure it's known as opinion. If we do that, God's word will speak to us in a revealing and amazing way!
Their are many so-called prophecy teachers in Christendom today. Many are out and out charlatans. They apply personal opinion and and the world to the bible, instead of applying the bible to their opinion and the world. The result is an amalgamation of views that can be thoroughly misleading. But their are basic principles in interpreting prophecy that can help us avoid all of the confusion.
Allegory is when God uses symbols to communicate a message. Some famous symbols in prophecy are a "woman" riding a "beast" from Revelation 17 and in the book of Daniel, the image that appears to King Nebuchadnezzar in a dream in Daniel chapter 2. So how are we to know what these symbols represent? Well, in many cases God will interpret the symbolism for us. In Daniel 2 Daniel reveals to the king that he is the head of gold on the image, representing the kingdom of Babylon. The kingdoms that are represented by the rest of the image are revealed to us by history, except for the feet of iron and clay which has yet to come. God also gives us the interpretation of Revelation 17 in the text of that chapter. This is an important lesson. Their is only one tool that is essential to interpreting biblical prophecy, and that is the bible. We must let the bible interpret itself for us.
The bible will do this as the symbols will remain consistent. If a certain symbol means one thing in one place of scripture, it will mean the same thing in another place in scripture. Leaven is always a picture of sin and false doctrine when used in allegory. Birds, other than eagles and doves, are a picture of evil and Satan. A woman is a picture of a religious system. If we use this consistent mode of interpretation it reveals exactly what God is trying to reveal to us through the word pictures He is giving us.
One of the best examples of this occurs in Revelation 12 and Genesis 37. In Revelation 12 we see a woman cloaked in the sun, the moon and the stars. Some claim that this woman represents Mary, mother of Jesus. Some cult leaders have claimed that it has represented themselves. But what does the bible say? Well we see the image of the sun, moon and stars in only one other place in scripture, Genesis 37:9. And in Genesis 37 it is Jacob himself who interprets this for us in verse 10, where he says the sun represents Rachel, the moon himself and the stars the brothers of Joseph, which will later become the tribes of Israel. Since we know a woman represents a religious system, and in Revelation 12 she is giving birth to a child(Messiah), this picture in Revelation 12 can only be Israel, who as a nation Jesus comes forth from.
Only the bible can interpret the bible accurately, and we must allow God to tell us what certain symbols mean instead of trying to make them mean what we desire them to mean. Many prophecy teachers are guilty of teaching on things that have yet to occur dogmatically, stating that such things as the European Union is the reformed Roman empire we see pictured by the feet and toes of Daniel chapter 2 and Nebuchadnezzar's dream. Could the EU be this? Yes, it could. But until it happens we cannot be sure. And to state as fact a minute detail that has yet to occur is yet another way some prophecy teachers mislead people. God gives us a general outline in prophecy of things that will occur. He does not go in to minute detail. This is why it is so important to allow Him to tell us what He has chosen too, and not state as fact an opinion we may hold that at the moment may fit the prophecy. We can state it as opinion, but not as fact. Only God truly knows exactly how His plan will eventually take shape.
The study of prophecy is a much needed thing in the church today. It reveals to us through fulfilled prophecy that the bible is the only true word of God, as only God can predict the future without error. It allows us to share with others the fate that awaits those who do not know Jesus Christ as Savior. But we must stay true to what the bible tells us, and not engage in rampant speculation stated as fact. If we will honor God's word and let it tell it's story, we'll find the study of prophecy an exciting journey in our faith. If we do not, we'll wind up confused and disappointed when things we may have heard or believed simply do not transpire. When studying prophecy, let God tell us what He will; apply the bible to the world and not vice versa; and when stating opinion make sure it's known as opinion. If we do that, God's word will speak to us in a revealing and amazing way!
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Falling Away-The Abandonment of Sola Scriptura
2 Thessalonians 2:3-4, "Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition, who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshipped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God."
Throughout the teachings of the New Testament, the church age is chronicled and an inevitable slide into apostasy is foretold. The bible often refers to the "last days" or "latter days" or "that Day" as a time when the fundamentals of the faith will be denied and replaced by man-centered teachings instead of God-centered teachings. The word apostasy literally means the abandonment or renunciation of a belief or principle. As we survey the condition of what is called Christianity today, it is hard to escape the truth of what the bible tells us would happen right before the return of Christ, and the subsequent appearance of the Antichrist. Their is only one place where we can base our faith, and that is upon the word of God. This is known as sola scriptura. When our teachings stray from God's revelation of Himself to us, we have usurped His teachings and replaced them with our own. This is apostasy.
Dr. Thomas Ice, a renowned teacher of biblical prophecy, gave a scriptural view of what would mark this apostasy in a recent blog. This departure from a biblically based faith will include:
Denial of God: Luke 17:26, 2 Timothy 3:4-5
Denial of Christ: 1 John 2:18, 4:3, 2 Peter 2:6
Denial of Christ's Return: 2 Peter 3:3-4
Denial of the Faith: 1 Timothy 4:1-2, Jude 3
Denial of Sound Doctrine: 2 Timothy 4:3-4
Denial of the Separated Life: 2 Timothy 3:1-7
Denial of Christian Liberty: 1 Timothy 4:3-4
Denial of Morals: 2 Timothy 3:1-8, 13, Jude 18
Denial of Authority: 2 Timothy 3:4
Looking around at what is called Christianity today we see each of these things predicted in the bible already occurring or in the process of coming about. Things that would have been inconceivable a few generations ago as they would have been correctly viewed as sin and heresy, are widely touted by so-called Christians in so-called churches today as a "new Christianity" in an ever evolving faith. A lawless and unbiblical view of the doctrine of grace has replaced sola scriptura and a literal understanding of the bible and propelled us into that age the bible refers to as the "last days."
The doctrine of grace is combined with our faith in the blood atonement and resurrection of Christ is the foundation of our salvation. But many are taking grace beyond biblical teachings on the subject and assigning to it a soft view of sin that is completely repudiated by sound biblical exegesis. Paul writes through the Holy Spirit in Romans 6:1-2, "What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? God forbid! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it?" Yet today, under the guise of an unbiblical view of grace, things clearly identified as sin and false teaching are readily accepted and proclaimed by many who call themselves Christians.
There is only one foundation for being a Christian, and that is the word of God. 2 Peter 1:19-21 tells us; "And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts; knowing this first, that no prophecy of scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit." God's word proclaims itself as "God breathed." It is His only revelation of Himself to mankind, and the only basis for God-centered teaching. Any teaching that contradicts, changes, adds too or subtracts from God's word is a man-centered false teaching from the pit of hell.
Jesus warns us in Matthew 7:13-27 that His way, revealed through His word, is a "narrow gate". The path to God is through one "gate," one "door," one "way," and that is Jesus Christ as revealed through the bible. Their are other ways, "wide gates," that will be pleasing to the ear and taught by "false prophets" and "teachers." Many of these false teachings will be proclaimed in the name of Jesus. But all of them will lead to "destruction." Jesus tells us many will choose that "wide gate." They will cry to Him in the day of judgment; "Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?" Yet Jesus will reply to them, "I never knew you, depart from Me you who practice lawlessness." The Jesus they proclaimed was not the Jesus of the bible.
Is the gate through which you base your faith wholly founded within the pages of scripture? God has given us a clear presentation of Himself in the pages of scripture. His word is His way. Do not be deceived by the teachings of man that seem so right to the ear, yet completely ignore the word of God. When we stand before Christ in judgment, only one thing will matter. Did we receive into our heart and follow the Jesus of the bible, "God in the flesh." Did we obtain "by grace," "through faith" His salvation as revealed in the bible. Many claim they represent Christ, yet only the bible reveals Him. Do not place your decision for eternal salvation in any other place than the clear revelation of Jesus in the bible!
Throughout the teachings of the New Testament, the church age is chronicled and an inevitable slide into apostasy is foretold. The bible often refers to the "last days" or "latter days" or "that Day" as a time when the fundamentals of the faith will be denied and replaced by man-centered teachings instead of God-centered teachings. The word apostasy literally means the abandonment or renunciation of a belief or principle. As we survey the condition of what is called Christianity today, it is hard to escape the truth of what the bible tells us would happen right before the return of Christ, and the subsequent appearance of the Antichrist. Their is only one place where we can base our faith, and that is upon the word of God. This is known as sola scriptura. When our teachings stray from God's revelation of Himself to us, we have usurped His teachings and replaced them with our own. This is apostasy.
Dr. Thomas Ice, a renowned teacher of biblical prophecy, gave a scriptural view of what would mark this apostasy in a recent blog. This departure from a biblically based faith will include:
Denial of God: Luke 17:26, 2 Timothy 3:4-5
Denial of Christ: 1 John 2:18, 4:3, 2 Peter 2:6
Denial of Christ's Return: 2 Peter 3:3-4
Denial of the Faith: 1 Timothy 4:1-2, Jude 3
Denial of Sound Doctrine: 2 Timothy 4:3-4
Denial of the Separated Life: 2 Timothy 3:1-7
Denial of Christian Liberty: 1 Timothy 4:3-4
Denial of Morals: 2 Timothy 3:1-8, 13, Jude 18
Denial of Authority: 2 Timothy 3:4
Looking around at what is called Christianity today we see each of these things predicted in the bible already occurring or in the process of coming about. Things that would have been inconceivable a few generations ago as they would have been correctly viewed as sin and heresy, are widely touted by so-called Christians in so-called churches today as a "new Christianity" in an ever evolving faith. A lawless and unbiblical view of the doctrine of grace has replaced sola scriptura and a literal understanding of the bible and propelled us into that age the bible refers to as the "last days."
The doctrine of grace is combined with our faith in the blood atonement and resurrection of Christ is the foundation of our salvation. But many are taking grace beyond biblical teachings on the subject and assigning to it a soft view of sin that is completely repudiated by sound biblical exegesis. Paul writes through the Holy Spirit in Romans 6:1-2, "What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? God forbid! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it?" Yet today, under the guise of an unbiblical view of grace, things clearly identified as sin and false teaching are readily accepted and proclaimed by many who call themselves Christians.
There is only one foundation for being a Christian, and that is the word of God. 2 Peter 1:19-21 tells us; "And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts; knowing this first, that no prophecy of scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit." God's word proclaims itself as "God breathed." It is His only revelation of Himself to mankind, and the only basis for God-centered teaching. Any teaching that contradicts, changes, adds too or subtracts from God's word is a man-centered false teaching from the pit of hell.
Jesus warns us in Matthew 7:13-27 that His way, revealed through His word, is a "narrow gate". The path to God is through one "gate," one "door," one "way," and that is Jesus Christ as revealed through the bible. Their are other ways, "wide gates," that will be pleasing to the ear and taught by "false prophets" and "teachers." Many of these false teachings will be proclaimed in the name of Jesus. But all of them will lead to "destruction." Jesus tells us many will choose that "wide gate." They will cry to Him in the day of judgment; "Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?" Yet Jesus will reply to them, "I never knew you, depart from Me you who practice lawlessness." The Jesus they proclaimed was not the Jesus of the bible.
Is the gate through which you base your faith wholly founded within the pages of scripture? God has given us a clear presentation of Himself in the pages of scripture. His word is His way. Do not be deceived by the teachings of man that seem so right to the ear, yet completely ignore the word of God. When we stand before Christ in judgment, only one thing will matter. Did we receive into our heart and follow the Jesus of the bible, "God in the flesh." Did we obtain "by grace," "through faith" His salvation as revealed in the bible. Many claim they represent Christ, yet only the bible reveals Him. Do not place your decision for eternal salvation in any other place than the clear revelation of Jesus in the bible!
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Follow the Leader
Nehemiah 4:17-20, "Those who built on the wall, and those who carried burdens, loaded themselves so that with one hand they worked at construction, and with the other held a weapon. Every one of the builders had his sword girded at his side as he built. And the one who sounded the trumpet was beside me. Then I said to the nobles, the rulers, and the rest of the people. "The work is great and extensive, and we are separated from one another on the wall. Whenever you hear the sound of the trumpet, rally to us here. Our God will fight for us."
The book of Nehemiah is a wonderful book on leadership. Nehemiah was not a king, or a priest. He was cupbearer to the king. A servant. Yet he was the God anointed leader who rallied the children of Israel in rebuilding the protective wall around Jerusalem.
If you were to google the word leader, you would find a myriad of information and opinions on what a leader and leadership is. But a leader in God's eyes is defined differently. A leader in God's eyes, is just what Nehemiah was. A faithful servant. One who is willing to lay everything on the line, and through his willingness to stand for the things of God, encourages others to follow.
Nehemiah here was willing to stand for God. He left the comfort of his job in a royal palace because His God was calling him to serve, and he faithfully obeyed. When Nehemiah arrives in Jerusalem he finds the wall in shambles and Israel's enemies gathering. What does he do? He does the only thing he can. He goes to the people, all the people; the nobles, rulers and common man, and through his conviction and character, he leads.
Many times in God's economy, God has anointed leaders and they've stood alone. The Old Testament prophets are great examples of this. Jeremiah preached for 45 years yet their is no record of even one convert who followed him. Ezekiel also had few who heeded his cries, "Thus saith the Lord." The Israelites suffered greatly because they would not follow the leader God had sent them. But when God's people hear the cry of the leader, and stand with him, God works in mighty ways. This is what happened with Nehemiah.
When God calls His people to work, a battle is often at hand. Nehemiah's band stood with a sword in one hand and a trowel in the other, ready for work yet prepared to fight. When the call of the trumpet was sounded, they knew it was time to lay down the labor and rush to the battle. They were vigilant, and prepared. They followed the example of their leader. But if they had not stood together as one, if one weak link had existed from among all the people, the battle would be lost.
This common man Nehemiah led the nobles, rulers and regular Joe's as one. They were willing to lay aside titles and status because God had clearly called Nehemiah to lead. They recognized this in Nehemiah's willingness to stand on the commands of God, and to their credit, unlike many of their brethren in Israel's history, they followed God's man. They followed as one people, God's people, in God's call and work. And God accomplished His will through them.
Their's a great lesson here I believe. In this age of church disunity and strife. In this age of dying and stagnant churches. What could be accomplished if we simply rallied around the people God has called out to lead, and are willing to take a stand for Him. What would happen if we would set aside title, names and stature, and with discernment recognize when someone, anyone, is standing for God and leading.
Nehemiah is an example to us that anyone can be a leader for God. The person willing to stand in God's will and not flinch, is one we should recognize and follow. If we are willing to humble ourselves and acknowledge who God is working through, God can rally His people and still accomplish great things. The lessons of the bible are clear. When God's anointed leader is followed by God's people, God moves and His people prosper. When the leader is rejected, God's cause and His people suffer. Are you ready to lead? God may be calling you to do so. But just as important, are you ready to follow if God has called another to head His charge. The kingdom of God needs both leaders and followers. Both are faithful servants of the King!
The book of Nehemiah is a wonderful book on leadership. Nehemiah was not a king, or a priest. He was cupbearer to the king. A servant. Yet he was the God anointed leader who rallied the children of Israel in rebuilding the protective wall around Jerusalem.
If you were to google the word leader, you would find a myriad of information and opinions on what a leader and leadership is. But a leader in God's eyes is defined differently. A leader in God's eyes, is just what Nehemiah was. A faithful servant. One who is willing to lay everything on the line, and through his willingness to stand for the things of God, encourages others to follow.
Nehemiah here was willing to stand for God. He left the comfort of his job in a royal palace because His God was calling him to serve, and he faithfully obeyed. When Nehemiah arrives in Jerusalem he finds the wall in shambles and Israel's enemies gathering. What does he do? He does the only thing he can. He goes to the people, all the people; the nobles, rulers and common man, and through his conviction and character, he leads.
Many times in God's economy, God has anointed leaders and they've stood alone. The Old Testament prophets are great examples of this. Jeremiah preached for 45 years yet their is no record of even one convert who followed him. Ezekiel also had few who heeded his cries, "Thus saith the Lord." The Israelites suffered greatly because they would not follow the leader God had sent them. But when God's people hear the cry of the leader, and stand with him, God works in mighty ways. This is what happened with Nehemiah.
When God calls His people to work, a battle is often at hand. Nehemiah's band stood with a sword in one hand and a trowel in the other, ready for work yet prepared to fight. When the call of the trumpet was sounded, they knew it was time to lay down the labor and rush to the battle. They were vigilant, and prepared. They followed the example of their leader. But if they had not stood together as one, if one weak link had existed from among all the people, the battle would be lost.
This common man Nehemiah led the nobles, rulers and regular Joe's as one. They were willing to lay aside titles and status because God had clearly called Nehemiah to lead. They recognized this in Nehemiah's willingness to stand on the commands of God, and to their credit, unlike many of their brethren in Israel's history, they followed God's man. They followed as one people, God's people, in God's call and work. And God accomplished His will through them.
Their's a great lesson here I believe. In this age of church disunity and strife. In this age of dying and stagnant churches. What could be accomplished if we simply rallied around the people God has called out to lead, and are willing to take a stand for Him. What would happen if we would set aside title, names and stature, and with discernment recognize when someone, anyone, is standing for God and leading.
Nehemiah is an example to us that anyone can be a leader for God. The person willing to stand in God's will and not flinch, is one we should recognize and follow. If we are willing to humble ourselves and acknowledge who God is working through, God can rally His people and still accomplish great things. The lessons of the bible are clear. When God's anointed leader is followed by God's people, God moves and His people prosper. When the leader is rejected, God's cause and His people suffer. Are you ready to lead? God may be calling you to do so. But just as important, are you ready to follow if God has called another to head His charge. The kingdom of God needs both leaders and followers. Both are faithful servants of the King!
Monday, January 10, 2011
White As Snow
Isaiah 1:18, "'Come now, and let us reason together,' says the Lord, 'though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool.'"
We don't get many days like this in South Carolina. Near Greenville in the upstate 8-10 inches of snow are already on the ground. Near Columbia 6-8 inches have accumulated. And here in Chesterfield, 5 inches or so already cover the landscape. And more is on the way for most of the day. Snow takes us back to childhood. I can still vividly remember sledding with childhood friend David Pittman down the steep hill on Balfer Drive next to Wade Hampton High School in Greenville. Snow brought an excitement that was rarely matched; well, because, we don't get many days like this in South Carolina. But snow is more than a childhood memory, or joy for a child today. In the bible, snow is a picture of our forgiveness of sin. Though we are sinful by nature, the pure nature of Jesus Christ can make us "white as snow."
Jesus, "God with us," "God in the flesh," lived a life that was pure as the driven snow we see out of our windows today. He was God, perfect and sinless; the lamb without blemish come to forgive the sins of the world. And in his perfect, sinless life he fulfilled the requirements of the law and the prophets. He lived the life only God could, in perfect obedience to the laws and word of God. In doing so, the "One" who was "without sin," "became sin," and took the punishment and penalty for our sin, and the sin of the whole world upon Him on a cross at Calvary some 2000 years ago.
Through heartfelt belief in Him, His righteousness is imputed to us so that in spite of our sins, in spite of our iniquities, in spite of our transgressions, we also can be declared righteous in the eyes of God. The word imputed is an accounting term. It means to credit something to another's account. Like me going to your bank and depositing money that is now yours, Jesus deposited His righteousness in to the hearts of all believers. Instead of being stained by our sin nature, and unacceptable to God because of it, we are now "white as snow." In God's eyes, because we now abide in the body of Christ, His true church made up of those with a genuine faith, we are righteous, we are pure, we are inheritors of the promises of God of eternal life with Him.
This promise is available to anyone. But it is a conditional promise. The condition is, we believe, place our faith in and follow Jesus. That we confess our sins to God, and repent of them. The word confess means to agree with someone. When we confess our sins, we are agreeing with God how offensive they are to Him, and if we do that sincerely from the heart, our desire will be to turn from them, and repent. The fact is if we have truly turned to God in our lives, we will automatically be turning from our sins. If we have truly turned to God in genuine faith, the Holy Spirit now indwells us, God is in us, and He will not allow us to remain in our sin.
We are not speaking of sinless perfection here, as no one other than Jesus was capable of living that life. But as a true believer, we will not "rejoice in iniquity." One of the Holy Spirit's ministries is to convict us of our sin. If He is inside of us, our hearts desire will be to turn from things offensive to God and seek to live a life pleasing to Him.
So on this day when most of us are home, enjoying the beauty of this day the "Lord has made," let us reflect on the sacrifice of the cross, and the opportunity it affords each and every one of us. No matter our sins, they can be forgiven. They can be "cleansed" and all of our "unrighteousness" removed. This promise of God is sure. So, have our sins been cleansed? Have we been forgiven? Have we confessed our sinfulness to God, repented, and received salvation through the power of His blood? If we will come to God sincerely from the heart, and do these things, and ask Him to forgive us He will. From that point forward we will continually become more like Him, and less like our old selves, as we are a "new creation" in Christ, "born again" of the Spirit of God. Will we take this step of faith, and follow Him?
We don't get many days like this in South Carolina. Near Greenville in the upstate 8-10 inches of snow are already on the ground. Near Columbia 6-8 inches have accumulated. And here in Chesterfield, 5 inches or so already cover the landscape. And more is on the way for most of the day. Snow takes us back to childhood. I can still vividly remember sledding with childhood friend David Pittman down the steep hill on Balfer Drive next to Wade Hampton High School in Greenville. Snow brought an excitement that was rarely matched; well, because, we don't get many days like this in South Carolina. But snow is more than a childhood memory, or joy for a child today. In the bible, snow is a picture of our forgiveness of sin. Though we are sinful by nature, the pure nature of Jesus Christ can make us "white as snow."
Jesus, "God with us," "God in the flesh," lived a life that was pure as the driven snow we see out of our windows today. He was God, perfect and sinless; the lamb without blemish come to forgive the sins of the world. And in his perfect, sinless life he fulfilled the requirements of the law and the prophets. He lived the life only God could, in perfect obedience to the laws and word of God. In doing so, the "One" who was "without sin," "became sin," and took the punishment and penalty for our sin, and the sin of the whole world upon Him on a cross at Calvary some 2000 years ago.
Through heartfelt belief in Him, His righteousness is imputed to us so that in spite of our sins, in spite of our iniquities, in spite of our transgressions, we also can be declared righteous in the eyes of God. The word imputed is an accounting term. It means to credit something to another's account. Like me going to your bank and depositing money that is now yours, Jesus deposited His righteousness in to the hearts of all believers. Instead of being stained by our sin nature, and unacceptable to God because of it, we are now "white as snow." In God's eyes, because we now abide in the body of Christ, His true church made up of those with a genuine faith, we are righteous, we are pure, we are inheritors of the promises of God of eternal life with Him.
This promise is available to anyone. But it is a conditional promise. The condition is, we believe, place our faith in and follow Jesus. That we confess our sins to God, and repent of them. The word confess means to agree with someone. When we confess our sins, we are agreeing with God how offensive they are to Him, and if we do that sincerely from the heart, our desire will be to turn from them, and repent. The fact is if we have truly turned to God in our lives, we will automatically be turning from our sins. If we have truly turned to God in genuine faith, the Holy Spirit now indwells us, God is in us, and He will not allow us to remain in our sin.
We are not speaking of sinless perfection here, as no one other than Jesus was capable of living that life. But as a true believer, we will not "rejoice in iniquity." One of the Holy Spirit's ministries is to convict us of our sin. If He is inside of us, our hearts desire will be to turn from things offensive to God and seek to live a life pleasing to Him.
So on this day when most of us are home, enjoying the beauty of this day the "Lord has made," let us reflect on the sacrifice of the cross, and the opportunity it affords each and every one of us. No matter our sins, they can be forgiven. They can be "cleansed" and all of our "unrighteousness" removed. This promise of God is sure. So, have our sins been cleansed? Have we been forgiven? Have we confessed our sinfulness to God, repented, and received salvation through the power of His blood? If we will come to God sincerely from the heart, and do these things, and ask Him to forgive us He will. From that point forward we will continually become more like Him, and less like our old selves, as we are a "new creation" in Christ, "born again" of the Spirit of God. Will we take this step of faith, and follow Him?
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