Tag: Jesus

How Do You Describe His Love?

Carl Pollard

Ephesians 3:17–19 says, “that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God.”

Looking at the context of these verses, Paul tells us that through the power of the Spirit, and because of the indwelling of Christ, we are to become established in love and being established in love, we have power to comprehend the love of Christ. 

But how do you describe such a love? Paul says, “comprehend what is the breadth, and length and height and depth.” But he purposefully left off what it is that he was describing. So what does he mean? It takes in the eternity of God. God is Love; and in that, an infinity of breadth, length, depth, and height, is included; or rather all breadth, length, depth, and height, are lost in this immensity. It comprehends all that is above, all that is below, all that is past, and all that is to come. All of this is said in reference to human beings. The love of God, in its breadth, is a net that encompasses the globe; its length reaches from the eternal purpose of the mission of Christ, to the eternity which is to be spent in his glory; its depth reaches to the lowest sinner, and to the deepest depravity of the human heart; and its height to the infinite glory of the throne of Christ.

How do you describe the love of Christ? We can’t. No one has ever shown this amount of love for this many sinful people. And yet we still act like we have power, like we are above God. Man on his own has no power. 

But God has given us the opportunity to have the power to comprehend His Son’s love. 

Comprehension is defined as “to process information, understand, grasp.” A child growing up hears from their parents that they love him. He hears it every day, but he never fully comprehends that love until he has kids of his own. A person will go through something traumatic, and the first couple of hours he is in shock. He knows what happened, but he hasn’t comprehended it yet. Sadly, we can hear about the love of Christ, and we can hear God’s Word. But this isn’t the same as comprehension. 

Growing up, I hated literature. I can remember reading the Iliad, eyes glazed over, and just seeing words on a page. I couldn’t tell you a thing about what I was reading. I wasn’t comprehending. Paul says, “And to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God” (Eph. 3:19). And to GNOSKO the love of Christ. A working knowledge as opposed to factual knowledge. This is comprehension, a useful knowledge of Christ’s love. As a faithful Christian, you can comprehend the love of Christ. And knowing His love is power. We sing, “Amazing love! How can it be? That you, my God would die for me.” To be powerful is to comprehend the love of Christ. And in comprehending we live out his love. That is our purpose as Christians.

Isaiah: The Holy One Who Rules The World (XLII)

Comparing Bel And Babylon To The Lord (46:1-47:15)

Neal Pollard

Isaiah: Trusting The Holy One Who Rules The World

Comparing Babylon To The Lord (46:1-47:15)

Neal Pollard

It seems plausible that the central idea in Isaiah 46-48 is given in the statement, “I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me” (46:9). You will notice a decided contrast, specifically between the Lord with Bel and Nebo (46:1) and between God and Babylon (47:1). The Babylonians are associated with their gods, and God calls His people to sit in the jury and judge between both. The verdict is a foregone conclusion, if they will honestly examine the evidence. At least five pieces of evidence are brought forth in these two chapters. 

His Power (46:1-7). By contrast, Bel, Nebo, and any material god must be created by man before it can be worshipped. It cannot save (2). It must be carried to the place of worship and set up before men fall before it (7). It is inanimate, inaudible, and impotent (7). But God made us, carries us, and saves us (4).

His Perception (46:8-10). It is in this section that the aforementioned statement is made of the special, unique nature of God (9). “He declares the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done” (10). For an example, look at the previous chapters where He presents for their consideration a king who would not be born for well over a century when Isaiah writes. Our God has perfect foreknowledge. None other has that ability.

His Purpose (46:10-13). As a part of His foreknowledge, God sets forth His purpose. He declares His purpose and counsel (10), then reveals what it is. It involves using a man from a far country, whom He calls a “bird of prey” (11). It is not shown here who that is. Jeremiah and Ezekiel call Nebuchadnezzar an eagle (Jer. 49:22; Ezek. 17:3). But the main thing is not the predator, but the God who purposes to use him. He purposes what He does in order to bring about His righteousness and salvation (13). Whatever He purposes will happen (Job 42:2), and He purposes only what is good and right (Gen. 18:25).

His Perseverance (47:1-9). The attention is suddenly turned upon Babylon, with God sending this nation a message even before it rises to global prominence. Isaiah appears to look past the Assyrians and the Babylonians to the Medo-Persian rise to power as a world empire. Cyrus will humble and subjugate Babylon, a sign that God has not given up on His people. God was angry at His people for their sin and would use Babylon to punish them (47:6), but this heathen nation was foolish not to see that they could not flaunt His will and survive. 

His Purity (47:10-15). Isaiah lays out the sin and wickedness of Babylon–lovers of pleasure (8), complacent (8), wickedness (10), sinful pride (10), and sorcery (12). It would harm them and any who allied with them (15). The next chapter will vindicate the character of God, but He is not susceptible to any of these spiritual impurities. He is the antithesis of them.

A recurring theme of Scripture is something we often sing, that “there is no God like Jehovah.” How foolish to trust anything or anyone besides Him. God’s Old Testament people made that mistake to their harm and destruction. We must not follow their footsteps, in view of our Awesome and only God! 

Isaiah: The Holy One Who Rules The World (XLI)

God’s Use Of A Persian King (45:1-25)

Neal Pollard

Isaiah writes in the 8th Century B.C. about a man who would reign nearly 200 years later. He calls him by his name (4), which is a Persian rather than a Jewish name. It must have seemed strange to Isaiah’s audience given not just the man’s ethnicity but his nation’s relative obscurity at the time of the prophet’s writing. Much of this chapter is devoted to explaining how Cyrus’ rise and his benevolent actions is a clear, powerful statement about the greatness and uniqueness of God. 

DIVINE DIRECTION (1-8). Isaiah walks through God’s plan to accomplish His will through Cyrus. He calls him His “anointed” (the Hebrew word “messiah”). That He will be with and empower this Persian is graphically explained: “whose right hand I have grasped, to subdue nations before him and to loose the belts of kings, to open doors before him that gates may not be closed” (1). God tells the nation what He will do through Cyrus (2-3) and that He does so for their sake and so they will know His power and love (4-8). The reason behind all of this is to turn the heart of His people back toward Him, that they would trust and obey Him. It is interesting to read the ancient historian Josephus, who writes that Cyrus read the book of Isaiah prompting him to order the rebuilding of the temple and even its dimensions (Antiquities XI.5-7; XV.386). 

DIVINE SOVERIGNTY (9-13). A natural response to what we read in the first eight verses is, “Why?” Why use a foreign king and speak so favorably of him? Why make such a plan? God explains by pointing out His sovereignty, His supreme and ultimate power. It is like clay arguing with a potter or a child questioning its parents concerning how or why it came to be (9-10). God has absolute right as Creator to do as He pleases (11-13), and the rest of this chapter demonstrates that He can be trusted to act in only righteous and perfect ways. That includes His utilization of Cyrus in His plans (13). 

DIVINE SALVATION (14-25). I like James Smith’s analysis of this plan of salvation articulated by Isaiah. Taking verses 9-25 together, Smith says:

  • God’s plan was unchallengeable in its origin (9ff).
  • God’s plan was consistent in its direction (11-13).
  • God’s plan was universal in its scope (14).
  • God’s plan was certain in its result (15-17).
  • God’s plan was rational in its design (18-25).

(Major Prophets, 134).

While the prophecy about Cyrus would be fulfilled in 536 B.C. and the temple would be completed in 520, there is with Isaiah a look at ultimate salvation. The justification and salvation Isaiah writes of in this more specific sense would be brought about through the God whose character and nature would be most perfectly shown in the coming of the Messiah, Jesus of Nazareth. Isaiah is looking forward, not just a few hundred years but over 700 years to the coming of the Savior. Do you see glimpses of this is statements like, “To me every knee will bow, every tongue will swear allegiance” (23b; Phil. 2:10-11)? 

Isaiah’s audience trusted in Assyria and Egypt to be their Savior. They could not pick for themselves a deliverer better than God could. Cyrus would prove this point, but Jesus would be the ultimate demonstration of this truth! 

Bread And Circuses

Neal Pollard

An early second-century Latin satirist named Juvenal is credited with giving the world the phrase, “bread and circuses.” In context, he wrote, “They shed their sense of responsibility long ago, when they lost their votes, and the bribes; the mob that used to grant power, high office, the legions, everything, curtails its desires, and reveals its anxiety for two things only, bread and circuses (Book 2, lines 10.56-89). The predominant idea in this now-famous line is that the populace lost its interest in political freedom and civic responsibility, being numbed and lured most by physical satisfaction and entertainment. In modern times, the phrase has been used to speak of food and entertainment being used by the government to keep people happy and submissive.

What makes this such an effective strategy? Perhaps it is a human tendency to favor pleasure over hard work and laziness over critical thinking, among other things. A love of ease and the illusion of peace can cause a person to surrender things of far greater value to keep them. Those things might be absolute truth, God-given moral values, personal sacrifice, care of and connection to community, charity, and similar building blocks of society. When we reduce our existence to placating our baser desires, we let go of what is much more valuable and this is to our ultimate harm. 

No doubt we see this increasingly in our national political environment, but can we succumb to the mindset of yearning for “bread and circuses” in the religious realm? Apparently so. Paul warned about “difficult times” when men would be “lovers of self, lovers of money…and lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God” (2 Tim. 3:1,2,4). In such times, they would “not endure sound doctrine, but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths” (2 Tim. 4:3-4). It seems easier to follow the flesh than to live by faith, but it is spiritually fatal. It is described as going from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived (2 Tim. 3:13). In the first letter to Timothy, Paul wrote, “But she who gives herself to wanton pleasure is dead even while she lives” (1 Tim. 5:6).

This isn’t to suggest that being a foodie or that watching TV shows and movies is sinful. That misses the greater point of Scripture. It is possible to let life become more about gratifying our bodies and putting our greater focus on the things of this world, and that is sinful. Paul tells us how to put all of that in its proper place, urging, “Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Cor. 10:31). “Bread and circuses” can be legitimate ways to build connections with people whose never-dying souls will live somewhere, but they can never become an end in themselves. We were created for infinitely more! 

Isaiah: The Holy One Who Rules The World (XL)

God Vs. Gods (44:1-28)

Neal Pollard

God calls to His chosen people, reminding them that He formed them and set them apart for Himself (1). Everything He promises in this chapter is built upon the foundation of that truth. They were perpetually guilty of aiming infinitely too low in what to place their trust in. As we read, we can relate to that. We doublecheck our investments, log a great many minutes in our workout routines and dietary plans, expend a lot of passion and energy into political matters, and engage our hearts in other earthly things while ignoring and neglecting the God who made us and set us apart by Christ. Because He has given His Son, we have even less reason to misplace our trust today. Walk though this powerful chapter and make the comparison the prophet leads Israel to make.

Recognize You Belong To God (1-5). Just as He chose them (1), He speaks of all He has provided for them as their God. He mentions water (3), His Spirit (3), and fruitfulness (4). Consequently, His discerning people would say, “I am the Lord’s” and revel in being claimed by Him (5). This came with blessings for them and their descendants. 

Trust In The True God (6-23). God sets Himself apart by who He is–Lord, King, Redeemer, and Lord of hosts (speaking of military might)(6). He proves Himself trustworthy by His unique nature, calling on them to compare Him to the gods of the nations around Him. Gary Smith provides a great chart which shows the contrasts stated and implied in the text here: 

What was said?What contrast was implied?
1. Men “form” idols (44:9)God “forms” the world and his people
2. Idols do not help; give no profit (44:9)God strengthens and helps his people
3. Their witness does not see, know (44:9)God’s witnesses see and know
4. Idol makers tremble in fear (44:11)God’s people need not fear
5. Idol makers will be ashamed (44:11)God’s people will not be ashamed
6. Idol makers get tired and weary (44:12) God’s strengthens so people are not weary
7. Idol makers measure on  wood (44:13)God measures out the heavens with his hand
8. Idols are images of humanity (44:13)God made man in his image
9. Idols are wood and metal (44:14)God made the wood and the metals
10. People worship what they make (44:15) The Maker/Creator should be worshipped
11. People seek divine deliverance (44:17)Only God can bring real deliverance
12. Idols blind people’s eyes (44:18)God opens people’s eyes
13. Idols give no understanding (44:19)God gives wisdom and understanding
14. Idolatry is a deceptive lie (44:20)God reveals the truth
15. Idols lead people astray (44:20)God calls people to turn from lies

(NAC, 239).

Isaiah presents the case, showing how utterly ludicrous it is to trust in a god that one has to make, who is useless, who is mindless, who is powerless, and who after he has crafted it worships it. He writes, “he makes a god and worships it; he makes it an idol and falls down before it” (15).

Instead, by discerning who God is, the people appreciate how fully He has forgiven them (22). Their right-thinking response is to praise Him for being a God without rival (23).

Understand That We Are Restored By God (24-28). He is our Creator and Sustainer (24). He has the ability to do what He promises and determines. This God is the One who promises to rebuild, to even do so by the hands of a foreign power who is hundreds of years from being born (28). A God without limits of power and who sees the future as if it is the past is the God who promises to restore His people. 

Fellowship And Golf

Dale Wiley

For the past 3 or 4 years Harold Nicks, Jim Fuqua, Bob Raby & I have been playing golf most every week. During that time, there’s been no bad language, no nasty jokes and a minimal amount of gossiping. Occasionally, as my golfing partners advance in age, some health issues arise. Shoulder pain, knees going out or a pulled hammie. Then they have to go on the injured reserve list. No problem because we go straight to the bench and in comes Elder Jim Humphries to take his place. Still, there’s no bad language, no dirty jokes and a minimal amount of cheating. 

Last Friday Jim and I were playing at Paul Walker and around the 6th hole noticed a couple of older men behind us and asked if they cared to join us. They agreed and one of them hit his ball in the woods and then into the creek.  A few choice words followed. Then on the next hole he hit a window in a house and then more words followed, some of which Elder Jim had not heard since his Army days back in the ’60’s. 

Jim and I were talking later how nice it was to be able to play weekly with a group of brothers that chose not to behave that way, even when the ball doesn’t always go where we want it to go and that we appreciate the fellowship of our brothers in Christ.

Fellowship with our Brothers and Sisters in Christ encourages and uplifts one another to be more Christ like and has a great influence on those around us, whether it be the Crew on Grub Night, the Young at Heart Ladies, or Tuesday’s Ladies Bible Class at Kathy’s, to maintain our spiritual growth. 

Remember these words:

1 Corinthians 1:9: You were called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

1 John 1:3: That which we have seen and heard we proclaim also to you, so that you too may have fellowship with us. 

Personal Responsibility Meets Divine Grace:

A Deep Dive into the Parables of the Talents and the Hired Laborers

Brent Pollard

The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25.14-30) and the Parable of the Hired Laborers (Matthew 20.1-16) delve into profound themes of stewardship and reward, each shedding a unique light on these concepts.

The Parable of the Talents reminds us of our duty to employ the gifts and resources entrusted to our care. It teaches that those who cultivate their talents can expect more significant rewards, revealing a structure where the fruits of one’s labor align with diligent stewardship.

In contrast, the Parable of the Hired Laborers reveals a profound truth about divine grace. It shows that laborers receive equal rewards regardless of when they begin their work. This parable demonstrates that God’s kingdom operates through grace rather than human metrics of effort or worthiness. The equal compensation given to all workers testifies to the Creator’s boundless generosity rather than merely accounting for their toil.

These parables weave together a profound narrative illustrating the delicate balance between human accountability and divine grace. Each carries a distinct truth that neither diminishes our responsibilities nor the grace bestowed upon us. One emphasizes our sacred duty to steward our blessings, while the other reveals God’s boundless generosity, which transcends our human understanding of merit.

Scholars and theologians have grappled with these parables’ apparent contradictions throughout Christian history. Augustine emphasized the call to earnest service in the Parable of the Talents, while Martin Luther highlighted the concept of grace alone, as illustrated in the Parable of the Hired Laborers. Today, these timeless stories continue to shape our understanding of merit, justice, and the nature of grace.

In our contemporary world, where productivity and performance often dominate the discourse, the Parable of the Talents highlights the importance of faithful effort and wise stewardship of our gifts. Meanwhile, the Parable of the Hired Laborers reminds us that human measures of worth pale compared to divine grace. In modern congregations, these teachings offer wisdom for stewarding our communities and nurturing relationships.

They guide us in developing our talents while grounding our communities in the grace that sustains us all. These parables encourage a delicate balance: striving for excellence in service while embracing the inclusive nature of God’s kingdom, which welcomes all regardless of when they join the work. This inclusiveness offers comfort and reassurance, affirming that God values all.

Rather than conflicting, these parables present a harmonious view of the Christian journey. They reveal a sacred balance where personal responsibility and unmerited grace work as partners in spiritual growth. The Parable of the Talents affirms that our efforts and choices matter—that careful stewardship of our gifts has genuine significance in God’s kingdom. The Parable of the Hired Laborers reminds us that grace forms the foundation of our relationship with God, surpassing human attempts to measure worth.

Together, they paint a vivid picture of discipleship, calling us to excellence while grounding us in humility. They encourage us to invest ourselves entirely in kingdom work while remembering that our worth stems not from our achievements but from God’s boundless love. This perspective offers enduring wisdom for navigating the interplay between human effort and divine grace, speaking as powerfully to modern truth-seekers as it did to its original audience.

Isaiah: The Holy One Who Rules The World (XXXIX)

“Fear Not” (43:1-28)

Neal Pollard

The content of this chapter is connected with exhortation, “fear not,” seen in 41:10,13, and 14. God has just delivered sobering news at the end of the previous chapter, so through the prophet He encourages them regarding their future. The trouble was a consequence of their own unfaithfulness, but God shows them what He wants to do for them as they return to Him.  He makes several promises, all fortified by His proven integrity in the past–He created, formed, and redeemed them (1). They can trust that His promises would encourage and embolden them. 

There will be redemption (1-4). What motivated God was the Fatherly love. He says, “I have called you by name, you are mine” (1). Whatever adversity confronted them, God would be with them (2). He is Savior (3). In affectionate terms, God tells His people they are precious in His eyes, honored, loved, and valued (4). 

There will be return (5-7). God speaks of His people coming from every direction–note the east, west, north, and south of verses 5-6. Summarized, He speaks of their returning “from the ends of the earth” (6). In this promise, there is a reminder of divine ownership. He called, created, formed, and made them for Himself and His glory (7). That they would ever have a lowered sense of their identity and purpose is mind-boggling! Is it any less for God’s people today?

There will be rescue (8-28). In this lengthiest section of the chapter, God repeatedly reminds them of His unmatched power. Twice, He reminds, “I am the Lord” (11,15). He points out that He is Redeemer (14), the Holy One (14), the Creator of Israel (15), King (15), and, most frequently, “the Lord” (10-12, 14-16). As He will contrast Himself with the gods of the nations throughout this section of Isaiah (see verse 10), He is distinguished from all rivals as an animate, omnipotent One who has the power to do what He wills. There is the rescue He effected in the past (16-18). Now, He says, “I am doing a new thing” (19). It would cause the creation to praise Him (20), and He wanted it to make His people praise Him (21).  Incredibly, they had rejected and neglected Him (22-24) and burdened, wearied, and hurt Him with their sins (23,26-28). But how did He respond in the midst of such moral failure? “I, I am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins” (25). However, the rescue is conditional. If they persist in transgressions and iniquities, God would allow them to suffer destruction and reviling (28).

Despite their persistent unfaithfulness, God’s perseverance and patience held out the hope of redemption, return, and rescue. He longs for man’s salvation, proven most fully at the cross. He wants a relationship with us, even if we so easily allow the world to blind us. He will not unconditionally save us, but there is nothing He wants more. In a scary world, that should lead us to “fear not.”

Be Grateful 

Carl Pollard

If you lack gratitude, you will never be satisfied, and you will always blame others for your misfortune. You’ll end up only seeing the negative in everything. A pessimist can hardly wait for the future so he can look back with regret. Did you know that cats can’t taste the flavor of sweetness? It’s like their tongues are color blind to sugar. No wonder cats are so grumpy all the time! They can taste sour, bitter, and saltiness, but not sweetness.

Truth is, we are a lot like cats in our own lives. Blessings come but we don’t see the sweet; all we can taste is the bitter salty things that happen to us. We need to open our eyes to the truth that gratitude isn’t merely a polite response to God’s blessings; it’s a catalyst that transforms our very existence. In a world often filled with grumbling and dissatisfaction, we are called to embrace gratitude as a way to point people to Christ.

Here three important reasons to show gratitude in all things. 

Gratitude Replaces Grumbling

In Philippians 2:14-15, we are reminded, “Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault.” Grumbling is a thief that robs us of joy and peace, turning our hearts bitter. But gratitude, is the antidote. When we consciously choose to focus on our blessings, we begin to see God’s hand at work in our lives. Think about the Israelites in the wilderness. Despite the miracles they witnessed, they often grumbled against God. Yet, when they showed gratitude, they remembered His faithfulness, and it changed their perspective. As children of God, we need to make gratitude a part of who we are. At our very core we are saved by the blood of Christ, given access to grace and peace, and have an eternity in our future. What’s not to be grateful for? The more you show gratitude, the less bitter you will be. 

Gratitude Restores Gladness 

Psalm 100:4 tells us to “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” 

There is a divine connection between gratitude and gladness. When we express our thankfulness, we open the door to joy. 

Gratitude shifts our focus from our problems to the blessings surrounding us, renewing our strength. When we cultivate a heart of gratitude, we invite joy into our lives, transforming our burdens into blessings.

Turning our trials into wisdom. Our sorrow to gladness. With the story of the ten lepers, Luke emphasizes the rarity of a thankful spirit. Notice Jesus’ final words In Luke 17:15: “One of them, when he saw that he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. And Jesus asked, ‘Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Was no one found to return and give God praise?'” Only one had taken the time to thank the person who had made his recovery possible. Don’t be stingy in your gratitude. Not only does God expect it from the ones He has saved, it’s good for us mentally and physically. 

Gratitude Renews Growth

A ship was wrecked, and the only survivor washed up on a small, uninhabited island. 

He was exhausted. He cried out to God to save him. Every day he scanned the horizon, searching for help. Finally, he managed to build a rough hut and put his few possessions in that hut. One day, coming home from hunting for food, he was stung with grief to see his little hut in flames and a cloud of smoke. The worst had happened. But early the next day, a ship drew in and rescued him. He asked the crew, “How did you know I was here?” They replied, “We saw your smoke signal.” Be grateful because maybe the difficulty you are experiencing now is a smoke signal that will lead to a greater blessing. James tells us to count it all joy when we encounter trials. 

Gratitude renews growth. We become stagnate and discouraged never grateful for the blessings we already have. Colossians 3:15 encourages us to “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” Gratitude isn’t just a feeling; it is an action that propels us forward in our spiritual lives. When we acknowledge and thank God for His provisions, we position ourselves for growth. Gratitude opens our eyes to new opportunities, strengthens our faith, and deepens our relationship with our Creator. 

Just as the seeds in a garden grow when nourished, our spiritual health grows in an atmosphere of thankfulness. Be diligent in gratitude so that your faith can grow. 

Does Humanity Have A Goal?

Gary Pollard

Another one of the most commonly asked questions is, “What is humanity’s goal?” This seems to be a “purpose” question, but one that specifically asks if we’re pursuing some kind of unity. Many have tackled this question, and most of them are far more qualified to deal with it than I am. But the ancient writings God gave humanity have proved reliable for millennia, so I’ll lean on its principles in this abridged look at our unifying goal(s). 

The concept of a “unity” has been explored for a very long time. It serves as the foundational principle for many world religions because we all have an intuitive sense that we’re connected somehow, or that we all come from a common source. We understand that all of us together are greater than any one person, so our destiny must be just as awesome! 

The short answer (from a believer’s perspective) is: Humanity’s goal is to see God. 

  1. We believe that the Logos created our planet and made it habitable. The universe is the creative expression of his nature and power.  
  2. Humanity’s original goal was the explore the Earth and enjoy it (Gen 2.1-15). 
  3. We were in a state of perfect harmony with the Creator and his creation. 
  4. We lost that when we chose to pursue forbidden gnosis. 
  5. All of history (and what remains of our future) is a story — its unifying narrative is our journey back to that initial harmony. This story is only possible because the Creator sacrificed himself to change our inevitable destiny! 

Our immediate goal is to emulate the Creator’s character as much as we can. This necessarily means we acknowledge his existence and primacy. He is light and love, so we try to be the same. Done properly, this benefits all people (especially people who struggle). Why voluntarily pursue other peoples’ needs over our own? Why struggle against the body’s impulses? Why view other people as more important than self? Why hold on so tightly to a belief in a God no one has seen? He promised us a return to perfection, an eternal life without any suffering, and a fully-repaired, personal relationship with the Creator (cf. II Pt 3.13; I Jn 3.1-3, Rv 21.1-2). 

Now I am coming to you. I will not stay in the world, but these followers of mine are still in the world. Holy Father, keep them safe by the power of your name — the name you gave me. Then they will be one, just like you and I are one (Jn 17.11). 

A person has only one body, but that body has many parts. Yes, there are many parts, but all those parts are still just one body. Christ is like that, too (I Cor 12.12). 

There is one body and one spirit, and God chose you to have one hope. There is one master, one faith, and one baptism. There is one God and Father of us all, who rules over everyone. He works through all of us and in all of us (Eph 4.4-6). 

Isaiah: The Holy One Who Rules The World (XXXVII)

Promise And Peril (42:1-25)

Neal Pollard

Dr. Ralph Wilson has noted “that Isaiah is quoted (or alluded to) in the Gospels approximately 21 times, 25 times in Paul’s letters, 6 times in 1 Peter, 5 times in Acts, 4 times in Revelation, and once in Hebrews” (jesuswalk.com). A great many of these are Messianic prophesies, including two in Isaiah 42. Isaiah focuses on a picture of the Messiah which he most fully presents of all the Old Testament writers, and that is the picture of “servant.” This chapter looks ahead to what God will accomplish through this servant for the good of His people.

THE SERVANT OF GOD (1-4). Isaiah writes of His choosing (1-2) and His character (2-4). God speaks possessively, “my servant…my chosen…in whom my soul delights…my Spirit” (1). Concerning His coming work and walk, the prophet speaks of His balance of humility and strength, a gentle judge! Matthew takes these verses and applies them to Jesus in Matthew 12:18-21, as proof of His identity as the miraculous healer who confirms His message and confounds His opponents in the region of Galilee. 

THE WORK OF GOD (5-12). Who would bring forth this Servant? Isaiah describes God, the Lord, through His voice in this paragraph. He is the One who stretched out the heavens and spread out the earth (5). He is Creator. He is the One who set man’s spirit in him (5). He is the Animator. He is the One who sustains man (6-7, 13). He is the Sustainer. He is the One who speaks with splendor (8-9). He is the Revealer. He is the subject of song (10-12). He is the Worshipped. In the midst of this depiction of God’s works, we have another fulfilled prophecy. Paul quotes verse six to justify his taking the gospel to the Gentiles (Acts 13:47), the apostle explaining to the Jews, “It was necessary that the word of God be spoken to you first; since you repudiate it and judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold, we are turning to the Gentiles. For so the Lord has commanded us…” (Acts 13:46-47a).

THE HEARTBREAK OF GOD (14-25). If Isaiah’s audience mistook the gracious patience of the Lord for weakness or indulgence, the prophet corrects such thinking. God’s response to His people’s repeated rejection was perfect displeasure. His broken heart is revealed by His wrath (14-17), His words (18-20), and His wonders (21-25). His wrath was displayed to His unfaithful people who trusted in idols; He would allow them to wallow in self-destruction. He speaks to the spiritually deaf and blind, knowing they will persist in their ignorance. He magnified His glorious law and ignited His fires of judgment, but the people refused to turn to Him.

Isn’t this the all-too-frequent picture of man’s hardhearted refusal to accept the gracious guidance of God? As Isaiah foresees the coming of the Messiah, God in the flesh, mankind had the opportunity to receive their King. Instead, they rejected Him and put Him on a cross. Through His apostles and prophets, He gave us His written will. Yet, the majority refuse to believe and/or follow it. Tragic as it is, God foresees it even here in Isaiah 42. The thoughtful and righteous “Sing to the Lord a new song, Sing His praise from the end of the earth!” (10).

Isaiah: The Holy One Who Rules The World (XXXVI)

“Fear Not, For I Am With You; Be Not Dismayed” (41:1-29)

Neal Pollard

We are not certain if Robert Keen or George Keith penned the hymn, “How Firm A Foundation.” Whomever wrote it, we know they drew their inspiration for the second verse from Isaiah 41. The song says, “Fear not, I am with thee, O be not dismayed, for I am thy God, and will still give thee aid; I’ll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to stand, upheld by my righteous, omnipotent hand.” Compare those lyrics with verse 10. Isaiah writes those words in the midst of declaring God’s greatness once more after having done so in the previous chapter. The context now is in the face of other nations and other gods, with His own people tempted to trust both instead of Him. Yet, they can rest assured because of who God is.

They should not fear because of God’s providence (1-7). God begins by inviting the nations to approach and draw near (1). He declares His active involvement in the whole world, the one who stirs, gives up nations, tramples, makes, pursues, performs, and calls them (2-4). He says the coastlands to the ends of the earth fearfully acknowledge His involvement (5ff). Isaiah’s report of the nations’ trembling should be seen as a comfort to His own chosen ones.

Those heathen ones trust their idols, who could not prevent what God was determining to do.

They should not fear because of God’s strength (8-16). This passage reminds me of what Paul says in 2 Timothy 2:13, as he gives the trustworthy statement that “if we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself.” They had notoriously chosen gods and nations instead of “the Lord,” Redeemer,” and “Holy One of Israel” (14). They should not fear because this omnipotent God has chosen and called them (8-9), sustained them (10), defended and protected them (11-14), and enabled them for victory (15-16). Because of God’s strength, His people could be strong! That was the only way they could be.

They should not fear because of God’s blessings (17-20). The goodness of God is an opportunity for humanity to look up and appreciate Him as Creator and sustainer. Isaiah isolates the poor and needy, those most helpless, noting that even these are not beyond His benevolent gifts. At the height of their need and despair, God says He will answer them and not forsake them (17) by providing what they need (18-19) “that they may see and know, may consider and understand together, that the hand of the Lord has done this” (20). God’s blessings exist not for our indulgence, but for our enlightenment. He wants us to appreciate that “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change” (Js. 1:17). If we grasp that, we will make the right choice of Master in life. 

They should not fear because of God’s control (21-29). God shifts His attention and voice to the impotent idols of the nations. Smith says that He addresses them: “He urged them to (1) make known former things; (2) make known future things; and (3) do good or evil, i.e., do something” (The Major Prophets, 126-127). They are unable to do so, of course. So, God distinguishes Himself from all rivals by declaring things to come (25-27). These idols are powerless and mindless, and they cannot declare what is front of them much less what is to come (28-29). Later in Isaiah, the prophet will show through his words that God gave him a clear message about future events that would be verified in time. Only the Holy One of heaven can do such things.

Isaiah: Trusting The Holy One Who Rules The World (XXXV)

Three Blessings God Supplies (40:1-31)

Neal Pollard

As Isaiah resumes his prophetic writing and, especially in this portion of the book looks ahead to the coming Messiah, He does so highlighting the greatness of God. The first eleven verses highlight the greatness of His Word, while the rest of the chapter focuses on the greatness of His character. Isaiah focuses on three of the blessings His people enjoy because of the truth of His word and the perfection of His character. 

COMFORT (1-11). This blessing emerges at a time after the people have been embattled and punished (2). The comfort comes from a harbinger, who for them is a voice crying in the wilderness but the ultimate fulfillment of which would be seen in John the immerser’s work of clearing the way for the Messiah (3; Luke 2:3-6). Yet, the primary source of the comfort mentioned in this section is God’s Word–“the mouth of the Lord” (5), “the word of our God” (8), and the proclamation of His good news (9-11). Associated with the forerunner’s work would be the heralding of the message. While this would have an impact on God’s people after captivity and punishment, the ultimate fulfillment would come through Christ.  

POWER (12-27). This blessing focuses on the omnipresence of God (12), omniscience of God (13-14,27), and especially the omnipotence of God (15-26). God is shown to be greater than creation (12-14), the nations (15-17), other gods (18-20), rival rulers (21-24), and the heavens (25). The imagery is powerful and varied, yet all leading to a single conclusion. Perhaps it is summarized best in verse 18: “To whom then will you liken God, or what likeness compare with him?” 

RENEWAL (28-31). This blessing results from His inability to be weary, be stumped, or be short of ability (28). He gives renewal and strength to everyone, young or old. He empowers and rewards those who wait on Him.

This is a preamble for much of what is to follow in the remainder of this book. Yet, each blessing pinpointed here has application for the Christian today, intent of following the one promised in this chapter. What a great God we serve, interested in blessing us in every good way (Eph. 1:3). 

The Fleeting Nature Of Legacy

Lessons From The Parable Of The Rich Fool

Brent Pollard

The breadth of human recollection is rather fleeting. In merely three generations, the essence of most lives—their trials, victories, and the simple moments of each day—slips quietly into the shadows of forgetfulness. Though history may enshrine its Shakespeares and Einsteins, the greater multitude of us shall fade into obscurity, our tales slipping quietly into the annals of time. This obliteration of individual narrative unfolds through various avenues. As time flows onward, the clarity of memory tends to wane, and the stories of those who came before us, beyond the realm of our grandparents, often fade into a misty obscurity. Families frequently choose to uphold only sure tales, usually centering on those kin who have forged remarkable legacies while permitting others to fade quietly into the obscurity of yesteryear. Those who depart this world without the blessing of children tread a more arduous road to remembrance since their narratives rest solely upon the commitment of distant kin to keep them alive in memory. In this age of mobility, it is all too common for families to drift apart, their bonds fraying and shared memories fading into the ether. The myriad forces at play—natural memory decay, the art of selective storytelling, the absence of children, and the scattering of families—combine harmoniously to guarantee that our recollection barely reaches a century for most of us.

The fleeting essence of human memory imparts a significant lesson regarding the quest for legacy through earthly riches, a truth vividly depicted in the Parable of the Rich Fool (Luke 12:13-21). In this narrative, a man of considerable means is convinced that his vast possessions will safeguard his future and ensure his legacy. Yet, in a twist of fate, death arrives to strip away the significance of his meticulously crafted designs. The inquiry posed by the parable—”Then who will receive what you have laid aside for yourself?”—gains a more profound significance when we reflect upon the fleeting nature of our very names within the tapestry of family remembrance. If destiny determines to erase our lives from memory within a few generations, the quest for wealth, as the means for leaving a legacy, reveals itself as a pursuit devoid of true purpose. Instead, this poignant truth beckons us to reflect upon what genuinely lasts: the far-reaching impacts of our connections, the principles we impart to those around us, and the uplifting transformations we foster within our communities. Though the allure of worldly achievements may offer fleeting solace, the unseen connections we forge—the impact we have on the lives of others, the insights we impart, the affection we extend—hold the promise of resonating far beyond our time on this earth. This viewpoint invites us to redirect our attention from the mere gathering of riches to the nurturing of a more profound spiritual and relational abundance, one that may surpass the limits of recollection, thus fostering a legacy that is both meaningful and lasting.

Rather than entangling us in a web of despair, the certainty of being forgotten liberates us to embrace life with greater authenticity and purpose. When we free ourselves from the weighty expectation of leaving a tangible legacy, we understand a profound reality: our authentic influence is not measured by what we bequeath but rather by how our deeds resonate through the ages, often beyond our sight. The folly of the Rich Fool lay not merely in his accumulation of riches but in his profound misunderstanding of the enduring legacy that binds one generation to another through unseen threads of influence. A gentle word uttered in the present may resonate within a family’s principles for generations; a selfless deed could ignite a legacy of generosity that endures beyond our remembrance; a fleeting insight imparted might influence choices long after its origin fades from memory. This insight reshapes our perspective on the fleeting moments life grants us. Rather than laboring to erect grand monuments in our honor, let us turn our efforts to sowing seeds of virtue that will blossom long after we have departed. We may find solace in the understanding that our impact can persist, even when our names have slipped into the shadows of time. This parable extends beyond its sacred beginnings to impart a wisdom that resonates universally: a profound legacy continues to yield fruit, even when circumstances cut it from its roots.

Show Your Trust

Carl Pollard

In 1799, Conrad Reed discovered a seventeen-pound rock while fishing in Little Meadow Creek. Not knowing what it was made of, his family used it as a doorstop for three years. In 1802, his father, John Reed, took it to a jeweler who identified it as a lump of gold worth about $89,000. That lump of gold, which was used as a doorstop for three years in North Carolina, is one of the biggest gold nuggets ever found east of the Rockies. Until its composition was determined, its value was unknown. 

Until the composition of our faith is determined, its strength is unknown. God will give you the opportunity to prove your faith. What kind of faith will we have? James 2:20-26, “Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless? Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar?  You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works; and the Scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”—and he was called a friend of God. You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone. And in the same way was not also Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way? For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead.” 

These two examples could not be any different to the Jewish mind. Abraham, the father of faith, and Rahab, a Gentile prostitute. Abraham was justified by works. 

When was he justified? When he physically took his son to a physical mountain, and placed his physical son on a physical altar. HIS FAITH LED HIM TO DO SOMETHING IN THE WORLD AROUND HIM. What is your faith causing you to do? At some point your faith needs to move from your mind to the world around you. Rahab was justified through the “working of her faith.” Faith demands action. 

It requires Intellect, Emotion, and ACTION. 

Noah had a devoted faith so he believed and obeyed. God told him what was going to happen, and how to avoid the destruction of the world. And Noah believed and obeyed. God has warned us what is going to happen, and how to avoid the destruction of the world. Do you believe that? Then have a devoted faith. A belief that will lead you to devote your life to God. A faith that acts on the word of God. What is the designed end of faith? Why are we to have faith? Because true faith leads to justification (salvation) 

Just like Noah obeyed, and Abraham and Rahab obeyed. 

If Abraham didn’t offer Isaac, what kind of faith is that? If Noah didn’t build an ark, what kind of faith is that? God expects us to have a work of trust. Abraham didn’t know what would happen to Isaac, but he knew God made a promise to Him. Noah spent 100 years building a boat on dry land, but he knew that rain was coming. What will we do with our faith? 

God has warned us of the destruction of our world with fire one day; are you gonna build a boat? He has told us how to be saved–through His son. Many will struggle with dead faith. All talk, no action. Many struggle with demonic faith, God has their intellect and emotion, but He doesn’t have their life. Some have a devoted faith. A trust that is seen through the life they live. What kind of faith do I have? If I don’t have works, if God doesn’t own my life, my faith is no good. 

My belief in God is useless. The only thing that comes from that is regret, because one day we will know exactly why we aren’t in paradise with God. 

We failed to act on our belief.

Why Suffering?

Gary Pollard

This week’s is possibly one of the most-asked existential questions out there. “Why is suffering a part of the human experience?” Believer and non-believer alike struggle with this one. Believers and even many agnostics struggle to justify the existence of an all-powerful, all-loving God with “bone cancer in children” and other seemingly senseless evils. Non-believers may struggle with the existence of suffering, too, especially if their worldview involves progressivism. After thousands of years of lessons learned, shouldn’t we have found a way to eliminate suffering? 

The Bible answers this question: we brought suffering to the human experience by violating the relationship we had with God. The story of the Bible is one that ultimately repairs this condition, thanks to God becoming human and sacrificing himself to repair that breach. On top of that, he came back to life as proof-of-concept and as a promise — we will have immortality, too. The message of Christianity is one that looks forward to a time without evil’s consequences (especially suffering and death). For many people, accepting the hard truth of our (i.e. humanity’s) culpability in the existence of suffering is too much. It can’t be that simple! 

We could illustrate this with an adapted pagan myth. Pandora’s box is well-known to many — she opened a box that contained all of the evil in the world, but with hope attached to them. There was no returning those things to the box and it affected everyone. While the framework of the story is decidedly pagan, it is rooted in historical fact. The first woman on earth did actually open something like Pandora’s box, introducing entropy to the planet for the first time. The consequences were far-reaching, as Christians believe all of humanity came from her. We are living with the consequences of Pandora’s box having been opened. 

Even if we look at this from a totally naturalistic standpoint, the existence of suffering does not necessarily preclude an all-powerful, loving God. In fact, it offers a fairly reasonable explanation for why suffering affects good people! What it does lack is anything resembling meaningful hope for a brighter future — this explanation ends with physical death, the beginning of eternal non-existence. A naturalistic explanation is something like this: There is suffering in the world because we’re all born ignorant and have to learn from the mistakes we make. Mistakes often have a ripple effect, and can sometimes negatively affect others. For example, a new driver’s inexperience may cause an accident that takes the life of an innocent person. It’s seemingly random, chaotic, senseless. What did that other person do to deserve death? Nothing, they were just in the wrong place at the wrong time. Even the naturalistic worldview understands that bending nature’s laws to prevent all tragedies would have devastating consequences in our current framework. 

So why doesn’t God intervene in every situation? The short answer is “we don’t know.” He does often intervene (cf. Hb 1.14; I Kgs 17.8-16; Ruth; Dan 3.8-30, and many, many others), but we don’t always know why. His perspective is infinite, ours is not. It’s frustrating, painful, and confusing at times, but we all accept that it’s temporary. We know that he won’t allow us to deal with more than we’re capable of handling with character intact (I Cor 10.13), but not too much beyond this. Christianity views suffering as part of the human experience that we’re quite ready to leave behind. This is why death is something we look forward to! 

We have sufferings now, but they are nothing compared to the great glory that will be given to us. Everything that God made is waiting with excitement for the time when he will show the world who his children are. The whole world wants very much for that to happen (Rom 8.18-19). 

I have told you these things so that you can have peace in me. In this world you will have troubles. But be brave! I have overcome the world” (Jn 16.33). 

Isaiah: Trusting The Holy One Who Rules The World (XXXII)

The Climax Of The Assyrian Threat (37:1-38)

Neal Pollard

So much of the first part of Isaiah has built toward the realization of this threat. Assyria was the subject of the prophet’s inspired warnings, even when the prophets and priests were not listening. Now, with the righteous king Hezekiah on the throne and trusting God, His moment of deliverance has come with which He will show His weak and wayward people that He is trustworthy even when they are not.

THE PRESSURE (1-13). Assyria intensifies its intimidation campaign by reiterating its threats in written form. After the oral threat is relayed to Hezekiah and they convey to Isaiah the distress and disgrace of it all, the prophet reassures him through his message to his envoy that all will be well. Meanwhile, the Rabshakeh reunites with the Assyrian king, Sennacherib, where the latter composes the letter which is dispatched to Hezekiah. Hezekiah takes it and spreads it before the Lord (14). This is undoubtedly the lowest point for the holed up people of Judah, bracing for a deadly siege. The more powerful Assyrians, ravaging nations and now cities within their territory, is on the doorsteps of Jerusalem and the temple. 

THE PRAYER (14-20). Hezekiah acknowledges God’s power as Creator (16), His compassion and deliverance (17), His inclination for justice (18-19), and His ability to save (20). It is full of pleading, as the king calls God “O Lord” five times in these five verses, in addition to “God” three times. It is full of pleas, like “incline,” “hear,” “open your eyes,” “see,” and “save.” It is a call for God to vindicate Himself. The king’s heart and emotion are on full display, as is his total dependence. It is an incredible, if brief, prayer.

THE PROPHESY (21-35). It is harrowing and horrific to imagine what it would be like to be Sennacherib. God turns the attention of His fury on the wicked king who thought to destroy His children! In essence, He says that the pagan potentate attacked Him in going after them (22-23). God noted his mockery and threats (24). He determined his destruction with perfect foreknowledge (24-27). He saw his wicked ways before Him and would turn him back from Jerusalem (28-29).  There is also a sign for Hezekiah and Judah; it “is not of the sort which comes before the event in order to create faith for the event, but rather after the fact to demonstrate that God was indeed at work” (Oswalt, NICOT, 664). When they saw Assyria retreat rather than invade, they would know that God did this (30-35). When they saw their life return to normal and prosperity, they would have opportunity to give credit where it was due. 

THE PUNISHMENT (36-38). The state of affairs change abruptly for Assyria and its ill-fated king. That very night, 185,000 soldiers of the Assyrians are annihilated by the angel of the Lord (36). Sennacherib slinks home, where he is promptly assassinated by his own sons in the act of practicing idolatry (38). Another son, Esarhaddon, takes his place. 

How To Refrain From Anger

Dale Pollard

Psalm 37.8

“Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath! Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil.”  Almost every word in this practical passage can provide even more helpful insight— so let’s dissect some of them!

Refrain: 

“sink down, to let drop, to abandon, to be quiet”

These are the steps that must be taken in order to avoid the damage that is certain to follow if ignored. 

Anger: 

“to blow through the nostrils”

This is the kind of anger that dulls the sensible mind. The choices (words/actions) made under the influence of anger are the just the beginning of coming destruction.  

And: 

There’s anger and there’s wrath. Anger can easily bring forth wrath. The command is to avoid that which makes you flare the nostrils as the natural progression of anger is escalation, referred to as wrath. 

Forsake:

 “to let loose, leave behind”

Drop it. Let it go. Do what needs to be done so that the command to “forsake” can be carried out. Leave, breathe, pray, reevaluate. Do it quickly and do it each time so that it becomes instinctual. 

Wrath: 

“hot displeasure, heat, rage, poison (as that which burns the bowels)” 

The Absolutes of Wrath 

  1. Our wrath gets us in trouble when we think we are the owners of it (1 Sam. 28:18)
  2. The answer to wrath is humility (2 Chron. 12.7). 
  3. Our wrath is based in ignorance (2 Chron. 34.21). 
  4. If you’re consumed by your own wrath, you’ll be eaten alive twice (Ps. 21.9). 
  • Eaten by your own & 
  • Consumed by God’s 

Fret not:

“to kindle, heat oneself in vexation, to begin burning, to grow warmer”

Tends only: 

“a one way path, the most likely outcome”

The phrase “tends only” shows up in Judges 16 where Samson asks God to grant him one final request. This helps us see how the word can mean a “one way path.” 

“Then Samson called to the LORD and said, “O Lord GOD, please remember me and please strengthen me only this once, O God, that I may be avenged on the Philistines for my two eyes.” – Judges 16:28 

Psalm 37.8 is telling us that human wrath is a path that can only lead to one end— evil. 

Evil doing: 

“shattered, broken in pieces”

Old Hebrew is a pictorial language and looking into a biblical word can really make a passage come to life. It doesn’t take any stretching of the imagination to see how “shattered” and “broken” so accurately describes the end result of “evil doing.” Evil is that which breaks and destroys our lives and the lives of others. The consequences are devastating but thankfully God is our guide to godliness. 

What The Holy Spirit Will Never Do

Neal Pollard

There is no question that the Holy Spirit, as an everlasting personality of God, is unlimited in power.  He can do whatever it is possible for God to do, for He is God.  It is interesting to read or hear religious people, from preachers to other members, claiming or asserting things the Holy Spirit is doing in churches and lives today.  In fact, several of these claims demand an answer, principles from scripture that must be considered before such claims are believed and embraced.  What are some things the Holy Spirit will never do?

The Holy Spirit will never override our free will.  John Calvin, a 16th century protestant reformer, went to an extreme that placed salvation solely in God’s hands.  He contended that man did not have a part in it at all.  From this premise came five broad religious ideas that eventually became identified as Calvinism.  One of these tenets is called “irresistible grace,” the idea that those God chooses for salvation are led to faith by the work of the Holy Spirit upon the human heart.  Tragically, this false idea is supported by many in religion today.  Yet, Scripture makes it clear that even in the first century, when the Holy Spirit operated miraculously in confirming the spoken message of Christ, His apostles, and other early Christians, He never directly operated upon the human heart in a way that overtook or overwhelmed the free will of the individual.  Cornelius received the Holy Spirit (Acts 10:48-49), but how was he saved?  Acts 11:14-15 indicates that it was words told to him whereby he and his house were to be saved.  1 Corinthians 1:18 tells us that God chose to save souls through the message preached.  One can look in the Bible from cover to cover and never find a statement or implication that God acts directly upon the human heart in a way that overtakes our will and leads us to belief and salvation.  Scripture repeatedly urges man to choose for himself, if he wills (Rev. 22:17; Matt. 11:28-30; etc.).  The Holy Spirit works powerfully upon the human heart to persuade man to obey God, but He does so through the powerful word (Heb. 4:12; Rom. 1:16).  This message is so compelling and convicting, but God has left it to our free will to decide whether to accept or reject this message.

The Holy Spirit will never contradict revealed truth.  Increasing claims are made in churches today about what the Spirit is working in churches to accomplish.  Often, the Spirit has been given credit for a church’s change of policy in women’s role, how or on what to spend money (such as for a grandiose campus), or even a strange, new doctrine.  Such assertions, however, ring hollow.  If these contentions were true, such would reflect most negatively on the character and nature of God.  The result of God revealing one thing in scripture, then revealing something else directly, is contradiction and confusion (cf. 1 Cor. 14:40).  God claimed that He was giving us His will for all people of all time (John 14:26; 16:13; Jude 3, 2 Tim. 3:16-17; 2 Pet. 1:3).  If He is still revealing new truth through the Spirit, was He right in those passages?  If He is still revealing new truth through the Spirit, how does this not reflect on His honesty?  God cannot lie (cf. Ti. 1:2), but those who claim Holy Spirit guidance in revealing new truth today, if they are correct, make Him such.

The Holy Spirit will never assert what cannot be confirmed.  Considering the work of Moses, then the later prophets, Jesus, His apostles, and others who asserted that their message was directly from God, one finds miracles being performed which confirmed without doubt the source of the message.  Without such tangible confirmation, how does the one who receives the claim know that claim to be true?  Anyone can claim that the Spirit revealed something to them or told them to do something, but how can anyone know they are right without clear confirmation?  That is what Aaron’s rod was for.  Isaiah (7:14), Jeremiah (44:29), Zechariah (3:8), and others all pointed to a sign that would confirm the veracity of their message.  History bears witness to the truthfulness of their claims (cf. Deut. 18:22).  After the church was established, Paul was already teaching in the first century that the miraculous gifts would not be needed once the written word was completed (1 Cor. 13:8-12).  God has never left Himself unsubstantiated.  How do we confirm doctrine?  We go to the Word God breathed.  It reveals His thoughts and His will.  He will not sanction men’s unconfirmed claims, and we are wise not to rest our hopes on such.  It is a dangerous and unfounded precedent to simply claim divine guidance without proof.  With such an approach, every person can claim a certain revelation, guidance, and heavenly message.  Without confirmation, no one’s claims can be tested!

The Holy Spirit is Divine, living, and powerful.  As God, He is at work in lives today.  He indwells the Christian (Rom. 8:11; 1 Cor. 3:16; 2 Tim. 1:14; etc.).  He strengthens the inner man (Eph. 3:16).  However, may we never fall prey to the false ideas that man creates and that cannot be verified by scripture (cf. 1 John 4:1).  The Bible exists for the reason of testing such ideas as these.  It must be the standard that proves and disproves men’s claims today.  Know for certain that the Holy Spirit does not today, nor has He ever, overtaken man’s free will.  He will never lead one to a conclusion or teaching that contradicts the Word He inspired holy men of God to pen.  If one claims a Holy Spirit-given message that is more, less, or different from scripture, it must be rejected!  If the alleged Holy Spirit-given message is the same as scripture, then why would God have given us scripture in the first place if He was going to directly dispense the same message apart from the Word?  Finally, He will never allow men to pass off as truth that which they cannot confirm in some way that proves, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that the message is divinely given.  Let God’s people be diligent students of the Bible and as such able to discern right and wrong in such matters as these!

God’s “Seal Training”

Jon Paschal

During the mask era, while I was playing on social media, I found this inspirational speech made by Navy Seal Admiral William H. McRaven during the 2014 University of Texas in Austin commencement.

Most of you are aware that the Navy Seals make up the tip of the spear for our military. Although I do not have the distinction of having trained with them, I have known a few and I can tell you they are some of the most tested, battle hardened, and confident men you will ever encounter.

Wouldn’t it be great to have similar confidence, spiritual fortitude, and faith like a seal has? I believe this is the faith described by Jesus in Matthew 17:20 and displayed by Peter as he steps from a boat of full of scared men out on to the waves of the lake in a storm expecting walk on water to his Lord.

I highly recommend you listen to the admiral’s speech. His 10 key points are very similar to a lot of Bible lessons.

1. Start off by making your bed. This may sound a little silly, but the premise is that if you complete something simple it can build a level of confidence. This confidence carries with you through the day as you attempt to overcome harder tasks. -This is a lot like little prayers before you start on a difficult task. Just like Nehemiah asking for direction, protection, and strength, I guarantee a short plea to God will be way easier to accomplish than anything else you do. And the knowledge that you have requested the assistance from God, the one entity that can make you overcome all obstacles is quite comforting. His will might not be for you to succeed every time, but by asking you have a better opportunity than not asking and it will bring you closer to the Lord.

2. Find someone to help you paddle – This is a lot like Hebrews 10:24-25: “Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works”.

3. Measure a person by the size of the heart, not the size of their flippers – This is a lot like Matthew 7:15-20 where Jesus says to measure a person by their fruits.

4. Get over being a sugar cookie and keep moving forward. When the admiral failed in BUD/S training, he ended up wet and covered with sand or, as he referred to, as a sugar cookie. -Basically, sometimes no matter how hard you try you still fail. And even though you fail we must be like Paul in Philippians 3:13-14 “forgetting what lies behind” and “press on toward the goal”.

5. Don’t be afraid of the circuses. Circuses are the extra work that the would-be seals must do when they fail a test to build strength. – And like in James 1:2-4 these extra trials produce steadfastness and make you complete.

6. Sometimes you have to slide down an obstacle headfirst – basically you must use your personal skills to do things more efficiently. In Matthew 25:14-32 the 5 and 2 talent men illustrate this point.

7. Don’t back down from the sharks – This story exemplifies overcoming fear like Deuteronomy 31:6: “Be strong and courageous… for it is the Lord your God who goes with you.” Or Isaiah 41:1-20, which says, “Fear not, I am the one who helps you”

8. You must be your very best in the darkest moment- This lesson is similar to what Paul provides to Timothy in 1 Timothy 6:11-16 “Fight the good fight of the faith”

9. Start singing when you’re up to your neck in mud- Singing can help lighten a mood and strengthen your resolve. I believe this is why Psalm 96 teaches us to sing to Lord, daily.

10. Don’t ever, ever ring the bell. – Never give up. Look at the stories of Job, the apostles, and Jesus. All went through great adversity and never stopped praising God.

Although most of us will never be a navy seal, we can take the admiral’s stories along with what the Bible has taught us to do our part in changing the world and make us better Christians.