Some thoughts from the book of Ruth. Just as Ruth was a Gentile outside of the covenant of the promise so were we. As it says in Ephesians 2:12 – at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.”
Yet Ruth was included in Israel and we even see her in Jesus family tree at the beginning of Matthew. As Boaz figuratively spread his garment over her, so Jesus by his blood brings us to himself.
Just as Ruth put her faith in Yahweh, the God of Israel and lived a humble and sacrificial life as a result; we also must put our faith in God and in Jesus – who died our death. Eph. 2:8.. “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith...”
Boaz who showed such grace and love to a widow and an outcast points us to Jesus who is the Great Redeemer. He paid the bride price not with money but by shedding his own blood. Jew and Gentile find forgiveness in Him and are reconciled to God.
Eph. 2:14-18 “For he himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by abolishing in his flesh the law with its commandments and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new man out of the two, thus making peace, and in this one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.”
Wednesday, 16 December 2009
Sunday, 15 November 2009
Wordy Worship
Here's a couple of great websites. The first has a lot of really thought-provoking material including this article on the significance of the words we use in congregational worship: http://thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/kevindeyoung/2009/11/04/why-so-many-words-in-worship/. I've recently discovered this site and its resources section with hundreds of free sermons by speakers including D.A. Carson, Wayne Grudem, Josh Harris, Paul Tripp and Tim Keller. They all come from a 'Reformed' standpoint but I think you'll find their passion for the Gospel and commitment to the Bible refreshing.
The other site is Bob Kauflin's 'Worship Matters'. Brilliant resource for worship leaders and worshipers in general.
The other site is Bob Kauflin's 'Worship Matters'. Brilliant resource for worship leaders and worshipers in general.
Saturday, 14 November 2009
A Word from Spurgeon
Charles Spurgeon has a timely word for those who minimise the value of what God has revealed to others by seeking their own unique interpretation of the Word of God: "It seems odd, that certain men who talk so much of what the Holy Spirit reveals to themselves, should think so little of what He has revealed to others.
Thursday, 15 October 2009
Ugly?
I heard a strange voice behind me. Two ladies were backing a wheelchair out of a car. Then the person sitting turned around. I shivered from the shock of what I saw. His (or her) face was all red and purple patches, but what was more memorable was the shape of his head. It was hugely deformed like nothing I'd ever seen before. I went into Tesco and tried to get on with my shopping but couldn't think of anything I'd planned to buy.
As I went round the shop I kept hearing this loud voice and saw this strange figure visibly unsettling everyone he went by. An odd mixture of repulsion and pity overwhelmed me. He kept asking questions and saying hello to people, but most ignored him, seeming unable to set eyes on him. I waited and sure enough he was wheeled past me.
“Hello,” he said. I took a quick, quiet breath and then turned around, looked him in the eyes and said, “hello.” Nothing more. No, “Have you got much to buy today?!” Later I wished I'd said more, but as they continued, he mumbled something and his lady carer said, “...Yes he did. He's a nice man isn't he.” I knew she meant me. Meant that simply saying “hello” and not turning my back was a surprise for them.
“Like one from whom men hide their faces.”
This is Jesus.
“He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to Him.”
This is our Saviour.
“Nothing in His appearance that we should desire Him.”
This is the majestic King of the universe.
The God-Man of whom Isaiah the prophet says, “many...were appalled at Him – His appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any man and His form marred beyond human likeness” is the One who will “sprinkle [with cleansing mercy] many nations, and kings will shut their mouths because of Him.”
So may we see a “Beautiful Exalted Saviour”, but also one who was perfect in every way even in His suffering and death, disfigurement and ugliness. If ever there was a statement shattering the worldly concept of beauty, this is it. He never ceased to be perfect, holy, lovely and good - though men were repulsed by Him; though His appearance caused them to turn away. This is our God who “looks not on the outward appearance, but on the heart.”
Society doesn't prize or promote the value and needs of the physically 'unattractive'. If they are noticed, it is often only for the freak factor. As Christians, let's break off from the infatuation with passing beauty and look straight for the heart. Invest in the ignored. Listen to the lonely. Show kindness when it doesn't get shown to you. Look constantly upon our glorious Saviour, not simply basking in His eternal glory and beauty, but remembering His earthly humiliation and ugliness.
"He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all — how will he not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things?"
As I went round the shop I kept hearing this loud voice and saw this strange figure visibly unsettling everyone he went by. An odd mixture of repulsion and pity overwhelmed me. He kept asking questions and saying hello to people, but most ignored him, seeming unable to set eyes on him. I waited and sure enough he was wheeled past me.
“Hello,” he said. I took a quick, quiet breath and then turned around, looked him in the eyes and said, “hello.” Nothing more. No, “Have you got much to buy today?!” Later I wished I'd said more, but as they continued, he mumbled something and his lady carer said, “...Yes he did. He's a nice man isn't he.” I knew she meant me. Meant that simply saying “hello” and not turning my back was a surprise for them.
“Like one from whom men hide their faces.”
This is Jesus.
“He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to Him.”
This is our Saviour.
“Nothing in His appearance that we should desire Him.”
This is the majestic King of the universe.
The God-Man of whom Isaiah the prophet says, “many...were appalled at Him – His appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any man and His form marred beyond human likeness” is the One who will “sprinkle [with cleansing mercy] many nations, and kings will shut their mouths because of Him.”
So may we see a “Beautiful Exalted Saviour”, but also one who was perfect in every way even in His suffering and death, disfigurement and ugliness. If ever there was a statement shattering the worldly concept of beauty, this is it. He never ceased to be perfect, holy, lovely and good - though men were repulsed by Him; though His appearance caused them to turn away. This is our God who “looks not on the outward appearance, but on the heart.”
Society doesn't prize or promote the value and needs of the physically 'unattractive'. If they are noticed, it is often only for the freak factor. As Christians, let's break off from the infatuation with passing beauty and look straight for the heart. Invest in the ignored. Listen to the lonely. Show kindness when it doesn't get shown to you. Look constantly upon our glorious Saviour, not simply basking in His eternal glory and beauty, but remembering His earthly humiliation and ugliness.
"He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all — how will he not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things?"
Tuesday, 15 September 2009
News and Views
It's some time since I gave an update on what I've been doing. The first year of Bible college finished in May, and I wondered how I'd fill the next four months. It wasn't too hard. We spent a week in Cumbria in our last holiday as the 'Steele 6'. A wonderful, relaxing week staying in an old chapel by a stream. What a blessing family is! We couldn't have asked for a better time.
After two weeks teaching English, I entered into the mad pre-wedding preparations for my sister Naomi. She and Ben Clayfield were married on August 1st - the most special and memorable of days.
After two weeks teaching English, I entered into the mad pre-wedding preparations for my sister Naomi. She and Ben Clayfield were married on August 1st - the most special and memorable of days.
Aside from a week working in a Christian bookshop and another week on a Christian camp in windy North Wales, I've occupied myself in various ways at home and at the school/business. Now here I am back at college and anticipating a challenging and changing 2nd year. Let me close with an interesting point mentioned by a lecturer today. Any feedback thoughts on this would be good to hear.
He was saying how church history has simply repeated itself. The heresies of today could be avoided with closer examination of what has gone before. For example, the Jehovah's Witnesses took a seemingly commendable position that "we must only study the Bible" and therefore forget all past theological learning. So we find in their heretical theology a repeat of the Arian controversy (surrounding the deity of Christ) centuries earlier.
It had already been discussed and a conclusion pretty much universally reached, yet the JW's chose to discard it. This 'Bible only' position inevitably leads to the danger of self-interpretation: putting your own take on the text above centuries of consistent interpretation in the church.
We like people who have a fresh approach, but there is a danger of pushing aside the established doctrines of the church for something which "itching ears want to hear." God's Word is living and active, but it has never changed in meaning or application. Discuss!
Saturday, 5 September 2009
Year of Grace
I've not reviewed a music album before. Year of Grace by Robin Mark deserves a mention. Remember These are the days of Elijah and You're the Lion of Judah? In his latest album, Robin Mark has recaptured that prophetic and biblical force in the lyrics with a fresh and memorable sound.The first song Lift up His name exalts God and revels in His greatness. Watchman with its lovely lilting Irish melodies displays the range of musical talents and reminds us that "in Him even the darkness is light." There is None Like You is a beautifully simple worship song speaking of the love and mercy of God in a difficult world.
In this live recording, worship leader Robin Mark prays and quotes Scripture, encouraging a response within our hearts and lives. All is well is a prayer of trust in God- whom we may not be able to see, but who is clearly in control and knows our deepest hurts and fears. Other highlights are Glory to Your Name, the cover song Year of Grace and a personal favourite Highly Exalted which is a glorious anthem of praise in response to Jesus' humility in death.
This album speaks pertinently into today's culture, whilst reminding us to keep our eyes on the one who is "Mercy and Beauty and Grace" - Jesus Christ the only Saviour.
Wednesday, 19 August 2009
Receiving Correction...easy right!
This is something I've been meaning to blog on. Mature people are ones who can receive correction. Josh Harris says it far better than I would, so take a look at this video clip, let down your guard and allow God to speak.
Learning To Love Correction from Covenant Life Church on Vimeo.
Wednesday, 1 July 2009
Edified?
Hi all. I'm busy on a summer school teaching English so not able to post much. I'd just like to point attention to a brilliant article I just read here. The site is worth a browse around too. But the question, "Am I easily edified?" is an important one to ask. Also please pray for me in quite a secular environment with lots of opportunities to be a witness. Thanks.
Monday, 22 June 2009
Ex Nihilo
Crucial for a correct, orthodox understanding of the doctrine of creation is the principle ex nihilo, meaning 'out of nothing.' It shows that creation isn't eternal. Matter has not always existed and only came to be when, “in the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” (Genesis 1:1) The Bible is clear where everything came from: God. “By the word of the Lord were the heavens made” (Psalm 33:6). Everything was created at God's command, His voice. That means everything must be dependent on Him – existing because of Him and sustained by Him.
When Paul preaches in Athens to the philosophers, he describes the unknown God to them. He is the God who “gives all men life and breath and everything else.” (Acts 17:24) In fact, ex nihilo is dead against Greek thought. Like the words from Sound of Music “nothing comes from nothing, nothing ever could” (Aristotle came up with the original lyrics here – in Latin!) It's worth remembering God is Almighty and nothing is impossible for Him.
Let's say matter has existed eternally. What would that mean? God's independence, sovereignty and His right to be worshiped would be undermined. In Psalm 90, God says, “Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.” When Job can't work at why he, a good man is being punished by God, He gets a sovereignty lesson: “Where were you when I laid the earth's foundations? Tell me, if you understand.” (Job 38:4)
Matter has no meaning or purpose if it always existed. But since God created it, He has a right to rule it and use it for His glory. The ongoing cause of the universe is Yahweh. That means He keeps willing and causing it to exist. Without that, it would fall apart. The world cannot have made itself. Matter can't create itself when it doesn't exist! The earth displays God's glory, yet it isn't God's glory. It is distinct in it's nature.
When Paul preaches in Athens to the philosophers, he describes the unknown God to them. He is the God who “gives all men life and breath and everything else.” (Acts 17:24) In fact, ex nihilo is dead against Greek thought. Like the words from Sound of Music “nothing comes from nothing, nothing ever could” (Aristotle came up with the original lyrics here – in Latin!) It's worth remembering God is Almighty and nothing is impossible for Him.
Let's say matter has existed eternally. What would that mean? God's independence, sovereignty and His right to be worshiped would be undermined. In Psalm 90, God says, “Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.” When Job can't work at why he, a good man is being punished by God, He gets a sovereignty lesson: “Where were you when I laid the earth's foundations? Tell me, if you understand.” (Job 38:4)
Matter has no meaning or purpose if it always existed. But since God created it, He has a right to rule it and use it for His glory. The ongoing cause of the universe is Yahweh. That means He keeps willing and causing it to exist. Without that, it would fall apart. The world cannot have made itself. Matter can't create itself when it doesn't exist! The earth displays God's glory, yet it isn't God's glory. It is distinct in it's nature.
Thursday, 18 June 2009
Fireproof
I can't go any longer without giving a much-deserved recommendation of 'Fireproof' - a film that has made a tremendous impact on U.S. marriages. In a time when most films devalue marriage or simply feature everything up to the wedding day, this is a welcome contribution. A film that portrays marriage as it truly is: a challenge in need of perseverance and the grace of God.
Here is the quick summary: At work, inside burning buildings, Capt. Caleb Holt lives by the old firefighter's adage: Never leave your partner behind. At home, in the colling embers of his marriage, he lives by his own rules. His job is to rescue others. Now Caleb Holt is ready to face his toughest job ever... rescuing his wife's heart.
A few great things about this film: 1. it has a clear gospel message (without Jesus, our best efforts are filthy rags) 2. the scripting, acting, music and filming is of the highest standard 3. thousands of marriages have already been rescued by its message 4. it gets to the heart of relationship problems and generally challenges the way we live (I was convicted of a few things while watching).
All in all, a great film (and I don't often review films!) Here is a link to the resource site. You can watch clips, find out about the church that was largely responsible for this project and get hold of resources to use in small groups or as a married couple. Enjoy!
Here is the quick summary: At work, inside burning buildings, Capt. Caleb Holt lives by the old firefighter's adage: Never leave your partner behind. At home, in the colling embers of his marriage, he lives by his own rules. His job is to rescue others. Now Caleb Holt is ready to face his toughest job ever... rescuing his wife's heart.
A few great things about this film: 1. it has a clear gospel message (without Jesus, our best efforts are filthy rags) 2. the scripting, acting, music and filming is of the highest standard 3. thousands of marriages have already been rescued by its message 4. it gets to the heart of relationship problems and generally challenges the way we live (I was convicted of a few things while watching).
All in all, a great film (and I don't often review films!) Here is a link to the resource site. You can watch clips, find out about the church that was largely responsible for this project and get hold of resources to use in small groups or as a married couple. Enjoy!
Wednesday, 17 June 2009
My Summer
Sorry anyone who reads this for the inactivity. My first year at Wales Evangelical School of Theology is finished. The last few weeks with exams and essay deadlines were a bit of a blur, but I've had time to step back and consider the great blessing of the year.
I'm writing on the back of a week at a conference listening to Wayne Grudem, professor at Phoenix Seminary, Arizona and a widely respected author. He spoke on the doctrine of Scripture: the Word of God; the canon of Scripture; its authority, inerrancy, clarity, sufficiency; the necessity and interpretation of Scripture; and Bible Translations.
I learnt so much from Dr. Grudem's teachings and his humble attitude. Maybe I can post some more blogs on the subjects he covered. One thing that stayed with me was what he said was the basis for trusting the Bible's authority. We can look to archaeology, history or reason to argue for the authority of Scripture. But if we're convinced by these things alone or primarily, then these become a higher authority than the Bible.
The Bible's claims for itself coupled with the crucial assurance of the Holy Spirit within a Christian, convince us that it is true in every matter. Hopefully more to follow on this.
A few things are lined up for my summer: a week-long teenage Bible camp, my sister's wedding preparations, some summer school English teaching and some work for quoakle.com.
I'm writing on the back of a week at a conference listening to Wayne Grudem, professor at Phoenix Seminary, Arizona and a widely respected author. He spoke on the doctrine of Scripture: the Word of God; the canon of Scripture; its authority, inerrancy, clarity, sufficiency; the necessity and interpretation of Scripture; and Bible Translations.
I learnt so much from Dr. Grudem's teachings and his humble attitude. Maybe I can post some more blogs on the subjects he covered. One thing that stayed with me was what he said was the basis for trusting the Bible's authority. We can look to archaeology, history or reason to argue for the authority of Scripture. But if we're convinced by these things alone or primarily, then these become a higher authority than the Bible.
The Bible's claims for itself coupled with the crucial assurance of the Holy Spirit within a Christian, convince us that it is true in every matter. Hopefully more to follow on this.
A few things are lined up for my summer: a week-long teenage Bible camp, my sister's wedding preparations, some summer school English teaching and some work for quoakle.com.
Wednesday, 6 May 2009
Summer Teaching at WEST
So, I haven't written for a while. Mainly because I'm in the middle of exams and I'm spending quite a lot of time revising. Here then is an ad for some brilliant summer lectures in my college open to anyone (though not free!).
Topics to be addressed include: church issues, preaching, evangelism, doctrine of scripture, church planting and pauline theology.
Speakers include: Wayne Grudem, Roger Carswell, Steve Timmis, Tom Holland and Rupert Bentley-Taylor.
Click here for more details.
Also in the summer is a 'revival' conference where the main speaker will be Douglas Kelly. This will look at some historical revivals and show what we can learn from them. Contact WEST for more information.
These are brilliant opportunities to grow in wisdom and be equipped to serve God better. I would particularly recommend the revival conference as I went last year and was really blessed.
Topics to be addressed include: church issues, preaching, evangelism, doctrine of scripture, church planting and pauline theology.
Speakers include: Wayne Grudem, Roger Carswell, Steve Timmis, Tom Holland and Rupert Bentley-Taylor.
Click here for more details.
Also in the summer is a 'revival' conference where the main speaker will be Douglas Kelly. This will look at some historical revivals and show what we can learn from them. Contact WEST for more information.
These are brilliant opportunities to grow in wisdom and be equipped to serve God better. I would particularly recommend the revival conference as I went last year and was really blessed.
Thursday, 23 April 2009
For Your Interest (or otherwise)
Since studying here at Bible college involves a lot of essay writing, I thought it would be an idea to give people a chance to see some of what I've written. They're far too long and detailed to post on the blog, so I've put links to them on the sidebar. They're a bit messy with all the footnotes, but hopefully of some interest. Feel free to leave a comment with any questions/suggestions you have.
The general scarcity of blog posts may continue for a few weeks until my exams are done. Please pray for my studies!
The general scarcity of blog posts may continue for a few weeks until my exams are done. Please pray for my studies!
Sunday, 19 April 2009
Who Controls the Meaning?
I asked the question, "Who controls the meaning?" in the last post. People are often encouraged today to approach literature with the view that the reader and not the author determines what a text means. Since the author is no longer active, the text and the reader are the only participators.
The example is given of a love poem a lady receives from her boyfriend. As you'd expect, she reads it carefully, searching for the meaning in each word and line. She wants to know what her boyfriend is trying to say to her. But if this lady discovers a poem on a scrap of paper off the floor in town, she'll read it quite differently. There is no way of tracing the author, but it's a nice poem and she enjoys reading it. She is free to interpret the meaning (probably incorrectly). The question "What does the author mean?" which she asked of the other poem, is replaced with "What does this mean to me?" (for her enjoyment, interest or curiosity).
If we treat the Bible simply as great literature, then the second question is understandable. But if we see the Bible as a communication between the author (the Almighty God) and ourselves, we should look for the meaning He intended.
So when I read the Bible, I should keep this in mind: I know the author (in part); He knows me (fully); I want to know Him better; His Word helps me to do that. The result is that I want to know as much as possible exactly what He meant in His Word. So ask yourself the question, "What is the meaning God intended in this text?" And keep asking God too! He will bless us for searching.
(examples from Grasping God's Word)
The example is given of a love poem a lady receives from her boyfriend. As you'd expect, she reads it carefully, searching for the meaning in each word and line. She wants to know what her boyfriend is trying to say to her. But if this lady discovers a poem on a scrap of paper off the floor in town, she'll read it quite differently. There is no way of tracing the author, but it's a nice poem and she enjoys reading it. She is free to interpret the meaning (probably incorrectly). The question "What does the author mean?" which she asked of the other poem, is replaced with "What does this mean to me?" (for her enjoyment, interest or curiosity).
If we treat the Bible simply as great literature, then the second question is understandable. But if we see the Bible as a communication between the author (the Almighty God) and ourselves, we should look for the meaning He intended.
So when I read the Bible, I should keep this in mind: I know the author (in part); He knows me (fully); I want to know Him better; His Word helps me to do that. The result is that I want to know as much as possible exactly what He meant in His Word. So ask yourself the question, "What is the meaning God intended in this text?" And keep asking God too! He will bless us for searching.
(examples from Grasping God's Word)
Friday, 17 April 2009
Christ Strengthens Me
I've been doing some reading for an assignment in 'Reading Skills for Exegesis'. That basically means learning how to properly interpret the Bible and apply it today. One question asked in our core reading 'Grasping God's Word' was: Who controls the meaning?
It's easy to approach the Bible with a what-does-it-mean-for-me attitude. 'For me' is not irrelevant but should not guide our reading of the text. So when we read Philippians 4:13 'I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me' and mutter it while taking a driving test or playing in a football match, we're ripping it out of context. And as my lecturer says, "a text out of context is a con."
Now before I tread on any more toes, let me say that these examples are mostly taken from this book by Scott Duvall and Daniel Hays. They remind readers of the context for the verse above. Paul is in prison, has encountered trial after trial. He speaks of learning to be content in every situation - comfortable or trying. So, while you and I were saying this verse to show our trust in God during that test or whatever, Paul's intended meaning goes much deeper.
What is more incredible, is not that God helps me to succeed (as this verse is often used), but that in the middle of 'failure'; of loss, pain, discouragement, tiredness, sickness, hopelessness - Christ is there. And He is my strength. He is our strength. I can preach a sermon without getting proud because (and only because) Christ strengthens me. I can have joy even though I failed my driving test because Christ strengthens me.
Hallelujah for the strength of Christ. His grace. His righteousness. Our salvation.
Now I haven't really answered the initial question... Next post!
It's easy to approach the Bible with a what-does-it-mean-for-me attitude. 'For me' is not irrelevant but should not guide our reading of the text. So when we read Philippians 4:13 'I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me' and mutter it while taking a driving test or playing in a football match, we're ripping it out of context. And as my lecturer says, "a text out of context is a con."
Now before I tread on any more toes, let me say that these examples are mostly taken from this book by Scott Duvall and Daniel Hays. They remind readers of the context for the verse above. Paul is in prison, has encountered trial after trial. He speaks of learning to be content in every situation - comfortable or trying. So, while you and I were saying this verse to show our trust in God during that test or whatever, Paul's intended meaning goes much deeper.
What is more incredible, is not that God helps me to succeed (as this verse is often used), but that in the middle of 'failure'; of loss, pain, discouragement, tiredness, sickness, hopelessness - Christ is there. And He is my strength. He is our strength. I can preach a sermon without getting proud because (and only because) Christ strengthens me. I can have joy even though I failed my driving test because Christ strengthens me.
Hallelujah for the strength of Christ. His grace. His righteousness. Our salvation.
Now I haven't really answered the initial question... Next post!
Wednesday, 4 March 2009
Kate's Story
Perhaps some of you have heard stories from the bush fires in Australia.
For Kate, the experience was painful and difficult to swallow. She and her family suddenly saw the fires sweep over the hill. They jumped in the car. Fire closed in all around so they headed for the lake. They swam to a raft in the water ready with blankets for when the smoke and fire came.
Then in the distance through the smoke they saw the headlights of their neighbours car. Despite their pleas, her father said that he must go and help them. He kissed them goodbye and headed to help the neighbours. That was the last they saw of him.
In Kate's own words, “While we tread water we all cried, we all knew Dad hadn't made it, there was no way. In all honesty I didn't feel like treading water, this was a nightmare and I could have easily just let myself slip away.
Everyday is a battle to see God's faithfulness and righteousness above the loss we have experienced. I'm not quite there yet, I'm angry, confused and bitter.
Yet she ends by quoting the words of a song...
Because He lives, I can face tomorrow,
Because He lives, all fear is gone;
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living,
Just because He lives
When we don't understand the pain and hardship we have to go through on this earth, it seems a cop-out simply to say "Still I trust in God. He is faithful." But the deep truth behind this statement needs to be grasped. We are saying that God has a knowledge higher than our own; He sees the greater good that can come about; this life is only temporary, eternity is a glorious hope. On this subject, I highly recommend the book When God Weeps by Joni Eareckson Tada and Steven Estes.
For Kate, the experience was painful and difficult to swallow. She and her family suddenly saw the fires sweep over the hill. They jumped in the car. Fire closed in all around so they headed for the lake. They swam to a raft in the water ready with blankets for when the smoke and fire came.
Then in the distance through the smoke they saw the headlights of their neighbours car. Despite their pleas, her father said that he must go and help them. He kissed them goodbye and headed to help the neighbours. That was the last they saw of him.
In Kate's own words, “While we tread water we all cried, we all knew Dad hadn't made it, there was no way. In all honesty I didn't feel like treading water, this was a nightmare and I could have easily just let myself slip away.
Everyday is a battle to see God's faithfulness and righteousness above the loss we have experienced. I'm not quite there yet, I'm angry, confused and bitter.
Yet she ends by quoting the words of a song...
Because He lives, I can face tomorrow,
Because He lives, all fear is gone;
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living,
Just because He lives
When we don't understand the pain and hardship we have to go through on this earth, it seems a cop-out simply to say "Still I trust in God. He is faithful." But the deep truth behind this statement needs to be grasped. We are saying that God has a knowledge higher than our own; He sees the greater good that can come about; this life is only temporary, eternity is a glorious hope. On this subject, I highly recommend the book When God Weeps by Joni Eareckson Tada and Steven Estes.
Friday, 13 February 2009
Believing in Jesus
You've probably heard this story before. A five year old girl was asked by another child how a person could go to hell, and answered, "By not not believing in Jesus." She was told off by her teacher and the head teacher said to her mother (a member of staff) that he wasn't happy with her daughter's comments. To read the full story click here.
Archbishop John Sentamu says, of Mrs Cain’s case and that of Christian nurse Caroline Petrie (who was suspended for offering to pray for a patient) that they represent a “seeming intolerance and illiberality about faith in God which is being reflected in the higher echelons of our public services”.
He said: “Asking someone to leave their belief in God at the door of their workplace is akin to asking them to remove their skin colour before coming into the office. Faith in God is not an add-on or optional extra.
Sentamu makes a very interesting point here. Does the demand to be professional and politically correct require a veiling of our Christian faith? Is it right to rejoice in the freedom we still have to express our love for God at home and in our churches, while accepting that in the workplace it is not appropriate to express this belief?
We could assume that the authority of God is something private, even inward. Yet, the Bible says "the earth is the Lord's and everything in it the world and all who dwell in it, for he founded it..." Isn't it right, that just as we might talk about our family with people at work, we should talk about our Heavenly Father? And of course, knowing about my family isn't going to change someone's life forever; knowing God will!
It's good to pray.
Archbishop John Sentamu says, of Mrs Cain’s case and that of Christian nurse Caroline Petrie (who was suspended for offering to pray for a patient) that they represent a “seeming intolerance and illiberality about faith in God which is being reflected in the higher echelons of our public services”.
He said: “Asking someone to leave their belief in God at the door of their workplace is akin to asking them to remove their skin colour before coming into the office. Faith in God is not an add-on or optional extra.
Sentamu makes a very interesting point here. Does the demand to be professional and politically correct require a veiling of our Christian faith? Is it right to rejoice in the freedom we still have to express our love for God at home and in our churches, while accepting that in the workplace it is not appropriate to express this belief?
We could assume that the authority of God is something private, even inward. Yet, the Bible says "the earth is the Lord's and everything in it the world and all who dwell in it, for he founded it..." Isn't it right, that just as we might talk about our family with people at work, we should talk about our Heavenly Father? And of course, knowing about my family isn't going to change someone's life forever; knowing God will!
It's good to pray.
- For this girl, her family and others involved: grace and wisdom in how to proceed
- That Christian children in schools across the country would boldly speak of their faith
- That Christian workers would not see the workplace as somewhere outside God's authority, but rather another place to joyfully tell of their salvation in Jesus
- For God's will in this nation: strength to endure increasing 'persecution' or a more positive, indiscriminate attitude towards Christians (starting in the government)
Sunday, 8 February 2009
A Poem
I was thinking the other day about wanting to see God. Things in my life seem to cloud my vision: whether it's all those books with a myriad of opinions, the hunger for feelings and experience of God that is too easily gratified, or the question why am I here right now - what for - what to do... I wrote this short poem. It's called Forest of Distraction
Caught in contentment, complacency, compromise
Eyes not shining with glories or mysteries
These trees all look the same here
Lost in a would, might, maybe if I could
Lay down my life and look up to light
Bright rays infiltrate lazy in-a-daze
Kind of ways to look at things
Dappled sunlight, purity hard to see for all the leaves
Tear down branches - obscuring, drawing false pictures
Of the uncontainable beauty above
Enough of misconception, let me see the face
And gaze upon it; erase my stunted view.. of You
Caught in contentment, complacency, compromise
Eyes not shining with glories or mysteries
These trees all look the same here
Lost in a would, might, maybe if I could
Lay down my life and look up to light
Bright rays infiltrate lazy in-a-daze
Kind of ways to look at things
Dappled sunlight, purity hard to see for all the leaves
Tear down branches - obscuring, drawing false pictures
Of the uncontainable beauty above
Enough of misconception, let me see the face
And gaze upon it; erase my stunted view.. of You
Wednesday, 21 January 2009
Thursday, 15 January 2009
Placement
I started my ministry placement last week. I'm doing it in my old school, The School of the Lion. Really enjoying it and I think God is confirming something of his calling on my life. Christian education is a vision I believe really needs promoting. That is the focus of my time here though I'm also helping with some lessons. The other day one of the children was reading from his workbook to me about plants and trees:
"God's Word says a man who knows and studies God's Word will be like a tree. We know that a tree takes in a lot of water. We should be like trees. We should take in God's Word, which God calls 'water' in His Word. We should give out large amounts of God's Word to others like the trees give off water into the air."
I love the way children can learn about the things God made. That even as he so wonderfully created them, he teaches us lessons through them in His Word.
It's been good to read some books about education. Here's a review I did for one:
“Where are the people who will feed my children with the Living Bread?” asked Betty Harris. With this burden, the first new Christian school began in 1968 and since then, over a hundred others have sprung up over the United Kingdom. The Love of God in the Classroom tells the story of many of these schools. It is a story of battle; a story of sacrifice and struggle; a story filled with opposition from all around. Yet it is an amazing story of God's grace and power, of incredible miracles and a story of young people loving Christ Jesus with all their heart, soul and strength. Whatever your conviction concerning the Christian education of children, you will not fail to see the way God has greatly blessed and used it."
As you can see, I recommend this book! If you want a copy, I'll give you one. One more week of work placement to go and there seems a lot to do. By God's grace, we are seeking to raise the profile of Christian education and the awareness of its value.
By the by, I've also made a poster (with a lot of technical help - thanks Joe) for an event in March. Definitely one for the diary.
"God's Word says a man who knows and studies God's Word will be like a tree. We know that a tree takes in a lot of water. We should be like trees. We should take in God's Word, which God calls 'water' in His Word. We should give out large amounts of God's Word to others like the trees give off water into the air."
I love the way children can learn about the things God made. That even as he so wonderfully created them, he teaches us lessons through them in His Word.
It's been good to read some books about education. Here's a review I did for one:
“Where are the people who will feed my children with the Living Bread?” asked Betty Harris. With this burden, the first new Christian school began in 1968 and since then, over a hundred others have sprung up over the United Kingdom. The Love of God in the Classroom tells the story of many of these schools. It is a story of battle; a story of sacrifice and struggle; a story filled with opposition from all around. Yet it is an amazing story of God's grace and power, of incredible miracles and a story of young people loving Christ Jesus with all their heart, soul and strength. Whatever your conviction concerning the Christian education of children, you will not fail to see the way God has greatly blessed and used it."
As you can see, I recommend this book! If you want a copy, I'll give you one. One more week of work placement to go and there seems a lot to do. By God's grace, we are seeking to raise the profile of Christian education and the awareness of its value.
By the by, I've also made a poster (with a lot of technical help - thanks Joe) for an event in March. Definitely one for the diary.
Tuesday, 6 January 2009
Children of God
How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.
1 John 3:1 here blows us away with the love of Father God. We have been adopted into his family. In Philippians 2, Paul asks the believers to make his joy complete "by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose." In this way they point to Christ.
We can show humility by "considering others better than ourselves". Paul was an amazing example of this. Think of it: prison, stoning, whipping, false accusation, hunger, thirst and it goes on. Why did he go through with it? That Christ might be proclaimed; in order that Christ might be fully developed in believers' lives.
Usually my chief concern seems to be my own spiritual growth. Yet we are called to be active in building each other up in the Lord, challenging each other to live a life worthy of Him. The whole body grows together - all parts nourishing and supporting one another. We must have a deep concern and resolution for one another's growth in Christ. And if we don't, we must pray for it.
What you hear from God in personal devotions, pass on. If you're reading a book that is building your faith, share what you are learning. Be easy about discussing things in life that need discernment from God. Perhaps someone else is the tool for your growth. Maybe you will be used to encourage them.
God desires his church to be a body that is balanced - each part having a deep concern for all the others. Sharing in each others joys and sorrows. Together becoming a light to the world.
1 John 3:1 here blows us away with the love of Father God. We have been adopted into his family. In Philippians 2, Paul asks the believers to make his joy complete "by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose." In this way they point to Christ.
We can show humility by "considering others better than ourselves". Paul was an amazing example of this. Think of it: prison, stoning, whipping, false accusation, hunger, thirst and it goes on. Why did he go through with it? That Christ might be proclaimed; in order that Christ might be fully developed in believers' lives.
Usually my chief concern seems to be my own spiritual growth. Yet we are called to be active in building each other up in the Lord, challenging each other to live a life worthy of Him. The whole body grows together - all parts nourishing and supporting one another. We must have a deep concern and resolution for one another's growth in Christ. And if we don't, we must pray for it.
What you hear from God in personal devotions, pass on. If you're reading a book that is building your faith, share what you are learning. Be easy about discussing things in life that need discernment from God. Perhaps someone else is the tool for your growth. Maybe you will be used to encourage them.
God desires his church to be a body that is balanced - each part having a deep concern for all the others. Sharing in each others joys and sorrows. Together becoming a light to the world.
Monday, 5 January 2009
Family Frictions
A man was building a house. There was no doubt that he was an expert. The ground was rough, but he painstakingly removed the weeds and stones. Then he prepared the ground until it was perfectly smooth. He measured it – the level was straight, the ground was ready. He laid the foundation with care and precision, until it was solid and unshakeable.
The man went to select some bricks. Strangely, they all seemed to be of different shapes and sizes. But that's not a problem for a master builder. Yet when he put a brick in a certain place, it complained (yes in this story the bricks actually speak). “This isn't the place for me, right up against that odd shaped brick and underneath this heavy one. No, I'd rather go somewhere more comfortable. Look, over there is a very smart brick and just the other side a pretty looking one. That gap will do nicely for me.”
Sadly in this story the brick gets his way. In many cases, his way was just to sit outside the building or with a couple of buddy bricks. And isn't this so typical of us as Christians. What does the scripture say? “We are living stones” (1 Peter) and in Ephesians, “In him [Jesus] the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.
Are we willing to be built together with others believers in the church? Or do they have to fit with our ideals; to make us feel comfortable? I pray that I would be sincere in saying: I'd rather be built together with bricks that rub a bit, so long as we are a house Jesus will live in.
The man went to select some bricks. Strangely, they all seemed to be of different shapes and sizes. But that's not a problem for a master builder. Yet when he put a brick in a certain place, it complained (yes in this story the bricks actually speak). “This isn't the place for me, right up against that odd shaped brick and underneath this heavy one. No, I'd rather go somewhere more comfortable. Look, over there is a very smart brick and just the other side a pretty looking one. That gap will do nicely for me.”
Sadly in this story the brick gets his way. In many cases, his way was just to sit outside the building or with a couple of buddy bricks. And isn't this so typical of us as Christians. What does the scripture say? “We are living stones” (1 Peter) and in Ephesians, “In him [Jesus] the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.
Are we willing to be built together with others believers in the church? Or do they have to fit with our ideals; to make us feel comfortable? I pray that I would be sincere in saying: I'd rather be built together with bricks that rub a bit, so long as we are a house Jesus will live in.
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