Tag: prayer

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

The Servant’s Words To The Weary Exiles (51:1-23)

Neal Pollard

James Smith observes, “Four exhortations to Zion follow the third Servant poem (which he identifies as 50:10-51:8, NP). Each is accompanied by promises designed to lift the spirits of God’s people during the period of their captivity” (OT Survey, 145). The first exhortation, to trust God in adversity, is found in the last several verses of chapter ten, followed by three in this chapter. First, remember their heritage (1-3). Second, listen to divine instruction (4-6). Third, take courage in God’s deliverance (7-8). This is followed by an extended call to God to “awake” and to Jerusalem to “rouse” (9-23). Verses 9-16 have been called a “wake up prayer to God,” while verses 17-23 have been called a “wake up prayer to a drunken woman” (Zion)(Smith, 147). It appears to me that there are three categories of individuals that are the subject of this “Servant song,” looking at past, present, and future. All the way through this section, the central focus is on one individual–The Servant–who is the coming Christ. 

Isaiah 51 speaks of the expectation of the righteous (1-8).  One is struck with the calls for the upright to act: “listen” (1,7), “look” (1,2), “pay attention” (4), “give ear” (4), “lift up” (6), “fear not” (7), and “be not dismayed” (7). These are calls of encouragement from the Lord. Blessed assurance fills the content of this paragraph. They could remember Abraham and Sarah, who were unlikely candidates for beginning an entire nation (2). They could remember Eden and appreciate what God was capable of, even as they found themselves in waste places, wildernesses, and deserts (3). The reason for their optimism was the character of God, from His law (4) to His deliverance and salvation (5-6,8). It was but for them to be faithful and fearless (7). 

Isaiah 51 speaks of the endurance of the Lord (9-16). Isaiah builds upon the righteous character of the Lord in assuring the godly and obedient. This prayer begins with the nation pleading with God to awake, but He declares that He is not only awake but also at work. He is the God of comfort (12), creation (13), capability (14-15), covenant (15,16), and covering (16). He declares who and what He is–“I am” (12,15) and what He has done– “I have” (16, cf. 22). To a people afraid of their enemies and lacking confidence in their deliverance, God reminds them of His limitless ability which aids them and destroys their enemies. 

Isaiah 51 speaks of the enfeeblement of the wicked (17-23). The tables are turned, and now God is calling for the spiritually drunk to wake up and sober up. They called on God to wake up, and He proves to them He is never asleep on the job. Instead, they are reeling from drinking the cup of God’s anger due to their rebellion (17). Sin has left the nation weak, aimless, unguided, inconsolable, helpless, and the object of God’s wrath and rejection (18-20). Yet, even in this condition, they are offered hope from God. He offers to take the chalice of reeling and divine anger from their hands and put it in the hands of their tormentors (21-23). Grace even in judgment! Hope even in the wake of their sin!

In the past, the people had seen God deliver them from Egypt (Rahab, 9; see 30:7). In the future, the people would see God deliver them from the Chaldeans (23; see 49:26). In the present, the people should look to the God they had ignored and forsaken, repenting and once again finding their strength and salvation in Him alone. What a timeless message! 

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

The Lord God Helps “The Servant” (50:1-11)

Neal Pollard

The first three verses of this chapter seem to better belong with chapter 49, making this an unfortunate chapter break. Isaiah 49:14 says, “But Zion said, ‘The Lord has forsaken me, and the Lord has forgotten me.'” So, these three verses is His response. There is a set of questions about God’s relationship to Israel followed by a set of questions about Israel’s relationship to God (1-2). His answer to the first set of questions is that their suffering was the result of their unfaithfulness, not His (1). His answer to the second set of questions is that He was able to save them, but they had refused to turn to Him for such (2). His power is limitless and rejecting that power is ludicrous! 

From Isaiah 50:4-11, we hear the voice of The Servant again. In contrast to the faithlessness of the people, The Servant is faithful to the mind and mission of the Lord. He puts His trust in Him in at least three ways.

He credits the Lord God for His gifts (4-5). These center around His tongue (4) and His ears (5). With His words, He would sustain and encourage. With His ears, He would listen and follow the Lord God’s instructions. With open ears, He obediently followed and persevered (5). 

He credits the Lord God for His mission (6). Here, we have the first of many allusions to the suffering servant. This persecuted Servant would be struck, violated, spat upon, and humiliated. One cannot read these words without thinking about what happened to Jesus on the day He was crucified. 

He credits the Lord God for His help (7-9). Twice, He says, “The Lord God helps Me” (7,9). In the light of this assistance, He is confident (7), determined (7-8), convicted (9), and optimistic (9). 

This chapter ends with The Servant calling on men to join Him in trusting the Lord God. They should fear Him, obey Him, trust Him, and rely on Him (10). Walking by the light of their own fire would simply lead to torment (11). It is foolish to reject the Lord God who showed His loving care to His Servant, who wishes to aid all who follow Him. 

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

Learning From Hezekiah’s Prayer (38:1-22)

Neal Pollard

The events of Isaiah 38 are recorded in 2 Kings 20 and 2 Chronicles 32:24. But these events seem to take place before the invasion of chapter 37 (see vs. 6), perhaps to show a contrast between Sennacherib’s failure and murder as he trusts in false gods and Hezekiah’s success and recovery as he trusts in the Holy One who rules the world. The chapter begins with Hezekiah being sick and at the point of death, Isaiah coming into his presence and saying, “Thus says the Lord: Set your house in order, for you shall die, you shall not recover” (1). Rather than accept that this was the final verdict, Hezekiah prays (2). 

  • His prayer is humble (3)–“Please, O Lord.” A correct view of self and our limitations and God and His limitlessness leads to this kind of prayer!
  • His prayer is bold (3)–“Remember how I have walked before you in faithfulness and a whole heart, and have done what is good in your sight.” How audacious to pray such to an all-knowing God! Could I pray that?
  • His prayer is emotional (3)–“Hezekiah wept bitterly.” He had reached the end of himself and reached up desperately to God.
  • His prayer is powerful (5)–The Lord sends word to Hezekiah through Isaiah: “I have heard your prayer; I have seen your tears.” Could there have been sweeter words for this king? What did James say? “The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much” (Js. 5:16b). God assures him that He will add 15 years to his life (5) and deliver him and the Jews from Assyrian invasion (6). God gives Hezekiah a sign to know that He would favorably answer (7-8). 
  • His prayer is grateful (9-20). Isaiah records the beautiful writing of Hezekiah after God heals him. While not a part of the prayer in verse 3, it is addressed to God and reflects on the prayer. He tells us more about what he prayed, and the theme is predominantly gratitude and thanksgiving. After viewing his life as desperate and hopeless before God’s intervention (10-16), he acknowledges God’s greatness and goodness. “It was for my welfare” (17). “In love you have delivered my life…” (17). “You have cast all my sins behind your back” (17). His concluding summary? “The living, the living, he thanks you, as I do this day; the father makes known to the children your faithfulness” (19). As an added note, his prayer is trusting. He confidently ends, “The Lord will save me…” (20).

Isaiah had brought the king word of God’s favorable response and what He wanted Hezekiah to do (21). This is a bad chapter break, ending with Hezekiah’s follow-up question, “What is the sign that I shall go up to the house of the Lord?” (22). Chapter 39 gives the rest of the story and the end of the historical interlude involving Hezekiah. 

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. 

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

The Invasion Of Assyria (36:1-22)

Neal Pollard

There is a historical interlude in this prophetic book, from chapters 36-39. 2 Kings 18-19 and 2 Chronicles 32 are parallel accounts, even filling in some details such as King Hezekiah’s capitulation to Sennacherib’s demand for tribute. The Assyrian king changes his mind and decides for invasion after receiving payment.

This chapter records the perspective and taunts of the Assyrian Rabshakeh (a royal official in their government whose name literally means “cupbearer” but whose role is obviously an important military position; Allen C. Myers, Eerdmans Bib. Dict., 870). He comes against the fortified cities of Judah after having taking off their brethren, Israel, into captivity in a devastating invasion (see 2 Kings 17). It is a frightening situation for Judah and Hezekiah, as they view this “great army” (2). There are several reasons for Judah to be intimidated and afraid.

First, they were greatly outnumbered. Their army numbered at least 185,000 (2 Ki. 19:35). These were vicious, victorious men who had overwhelmed every enemy they had faced.

Second, they were intimidating. The Rabshekah up to the wall around Jerusalem and begins speaking to the Jews there in their native tongue, Hebrew (11). He offers to make a wager with Judah to stake everything on a chariot race, knowing full well Judah was not close to being a competition (8). He contends that Judah couldn’t defeat even a single captain of his army (9).

Third, they were insulting. Not only did they insult Judah, but more catastrophically and foolishly, they insulted God. The Rabshakeh unknowingly compliments Hezekiah’s righteousness by pointing out the good king had removed the high places of worship which God disapproved of (meaning God was pleased with Hezekiah)(7). He equated Jehovah with the gods of the peoples they had already defeated (19-20). Speaking Hebrew rather than Aramaic was as insulting as it was intimidating. 

The Judean officials who received the Rabshakeh’s taunts brought word to Hezekiah. The next chapters reveal his response and Isaiah’s involvement. Hezekiah is handed a five-alarm crisis. It was no doubt bigger than him and left him with precious little to do in response. Have you been there, with your back against the wall facing an earthly enemy much bigger than yourself? It is tempting to resort to responses that do not honor God, but we learn much from Hezekiah in what follows. 

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

The Last “Woe” And The Magnification Of The Almighty (33:1-24)

Neal Pollard

Chapter 33 is the last of five “woes” (“ah” in the ESV). It focuses on Assyria’s destruction, the fulfillment of which we read about in chapters 36-39 in Hezekiah’s righteous, faith-filled stand against Sennacherib. This chapter contrasts the incredible fall of the Assyrians with the absolute exaltation of the Lord.

The preamble of the chapter (1) is a warning to Assyria that their days are numbered. They have ravaged, a “destroyer,” a “traitor,” and a “betrayer,” but now they will be destroyed. After this statement, Isaiah reveals what his people will say to the God they remember to trust and lean upon for rescue.

The prayer of Judah (2-6). Notice the contents of the prayer. It is a cry of help–“be gracious” (2). It is a pledge of trust–“we wait for you” (2). It is an expression of praise–“The Lord is exalted” (5). It is a grateful acknowledgement of His greatness–“he will fill Zion with justice and righteousness, and he will be the stability of your times, abundance of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge; the fear of the Lord is Zion’s treasure” (5b-6). When their enemy was removed from before their eyes, they could see God in His full splendor without any obscurities. 

The praiseworthiness of God (7-13). Before this hoped-for deliverance, Judah stared down the prospect of treachery and destruction from the hands of the Assyrian people they had petitioned nations like Egypt to protect them against. That was wrong and foolish. Gary Smith writes, “Four geographic locations are specified: Lebanon, the Sharon plains, Bashan, and the Carmel mountains. These are areas that were renown for their fertility and lush green trees and crops. Now these areas are withered and look more like a desert” (NAC, 356). Judah is languishing in fear and defeat. God says that, in such conditions, they will be better able to see Him in His true splendor–“Now I will arise,” says the Lord, “now I will lift myself up; now I will be exalted” (10). The contrast is stark! The Lord says, “Hear, you who are far off, what I have done; and you who are near, acknowledge my might” (13). 

The perspectives of the wicked and righteous (14-22). What about the sinners in Zion? They’re afraid and tremble (14). What about the righteous? They dwell on the heights with ample bread and water (16). But more importantly, the godly do not have willful sin blinding their eyes to God’s greatness. Not only will they see God in His beauty, they will see the land in its sufficiency, the disappearance of the Assyrian threat, the restoration of the place of worship, and the delivering power of God (17-22). 

The promise of the future (23-24). Despite the abiding threat at the time this is written (23a), things would change. Prosperity would return, sickness would recede, and redemption would be restored. Assyria was going down, and the people should see the goodness and mercy of God in the wake of it. 

Handling Our Sins As Christians

Neal Pollard

The Bible makes it very clear that every one sins (Rom. 3:10, 23). The Apostle John was a very righteous man. When all the other apostles ran away as Jesus was arrested and put through so much agony, John went with Jesus all the way to the cross (Jn. 19:25-27). He was called “the disciple whom He loved” (Jn. 13:23). But, this great apostle said, “If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us”  (1 Jn. 1:8). The apostle Paul confessed to the fact that he struggled with sin, despite the fact that we recognize him as a faithful, fruitful Christian (Rom. 7:14-25).

 The question is, “Do I need to be baptized every time I sin?” The Bible makes it very clear that a person must be baptized in order to be saved. From the first time Jesus was preached to people, they asked what they should do. They were told to repent and be baptized for the forgiveness of their sins (Acts 2:38). The last New Testament scripture to deal with the sub- ject of baptism says, “Baptism saves you” (1 Pet. 3:21). There is no doubt but that God requires a person to be baptized in order to be saved.

However, once one is baptized into Christ (Gal. 3:27), he or she does not cease from sinning. That would be nice, but it is impossible (cf. Rom. 3:23).  We still struggle with temptation, weakness, and desires of the flesh. Yet, nowhere do we read in the New Testament of a command, example, or implied statement concerning being baptized to cover each sin one commits as a Christian. That is significant. We follow the New Testament as the pattern for our conduct, worship, and teaching on all matters.

So, what does a person do as a Christian when he or she sins? Let us return our focus to 1 John one. There, John writes, “If we say that we have fellowship with Him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth; but if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar and His word is not in us” (6-10). First, notice that one can claim to have fellowship with God but will disprove that claim by walking in sin. One cannot walk in darkness and have their sins covered.

Second, notice that fellowship with God is maintained by walking faithfully in Christ. The blood that forgives our sins in baptism continues to cleanse us as our walk is righteous. However, “walking in the Light” is not the same as sinless perfection. What John says in the next three verses proves this.  We are actually sinful to claim sinless perfection (8,10).

Third, notice what one does to maintain fellowship with God while coping with and trying to overcome sin. In verse 9, John speaks of an honest awareness of the presence of sin in our lives that leads us to confess our sins. Some deny, defend, or excuse their sins, but that makes one like those John warns about in verses 8 and 10. Instead, a humble, penitent heart that is quick to see and acknowledge the presence of sin in his or her life is one who will enjoy cleansing from a God faithful and just to forgive such sinners. How does a Christian handle personal sin? Do not make it a matter of lifestyle (7), but when sin does occur be ready to confess it (9).

 One other element implied by John and explicitly stated by Peter is the idea of repentance. In Acts 8, a man named Simon committed sin. Peter rebuked him for the sin, saying, “Therefore repent of this wickedness of yours, and pray the Lord that, if possible, the intention of your heart may be forgiven you” (22). Repentance and prayer are necessary acts for a Christian who sins. Paul praises the Corinthians for following the same pattern to handle their sins as Christians (see 2 Cor. 7:10-11).

It would be wonderful if we did not sin as Christians, but such is just not possible. Thus, when we do sin, we need to have an awareness of it, a heart that is sorry about it, and a determination to overcome it, repenting of it, confessing it, and praying about it.

Remember Lot’s Wife

Carl Pollard

Nowhere in the Bible are we told to remember Abraham, Isaac or Jacob. We are not commanded to remember Ruth or Rahab, David or Joshua, but we are commanded to remember Lot’s wife!

What is there to remember? She was married to Lot and she lived in Sodom. 

These cities were notorious for their wickedness and moral decay. Before God’s judgment came on Sodom and Gomorrah, she, along with her husband and two unmarried daughters, was forced from the city. God sent angels to urge Lot and his family to flee the city. They were all commanded not to look behind them as they fled (Gen. 19:17), but she disobeyed and was instantly killed and transformed into a pillar of salt.

Apparently, there is more to the story, and Jesus gives us that insight. Her glance back at the city represents more than just curiosity, it was longing for a life she was leaving behind. There are some lessons that can be learned from Lot’s wife. 

Our assignment from the Lord is that we remember her. But before we jump into our main scripture, we need some context. 

In Luke 17, Jesus has just been asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God will come. His answer is to warn them to be ready because the coming of the kingdom is like the flash of lightening that instantly lights the sky. It is compared to the coming of the flood in Noah’s day and to the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah in Lot’s day. On the day of the flood, people got up and did exactly what they always did. 

They got dressed, ate some food, went to the market. Others were at their wedding ceremony, celebrating. Then suddenly, their world ended. This is exactly what happened to the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. It was just another day, until it wasn’t. 

Those who hear are warned to be ready to go when the Lord comes, and they are warned against turning back for anything. 

Then, in the midst of His teaching, the Lord tells those listening to Him that they should “remember Lot’s wife.” Luke 17:32. These three words spoken by the Savior invite us to examine our hearts, our choices, and our relationship with God. What can we remember about her? 

Remember Her Privileges

She had valuable relationships. To fully appreciate the significance of Jesus’ words, we need to revisit the story of Lot and his wife as recorded in Genesis 19. Lot was a man chosen by God to be saved from the impending destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah due to the rampant wickedness of those cities. He had the privilege of being a part of God’s redemptive plan, meaning that Lot’s wife also had this privilege. She was exposed to divine revelation. 

She lived with Lot, who was visited by angels sent from God with a clear message of warning. She was part of a family chosen for deliverance, witnessing firsthand the miraculous intervention of God. This is a privilege many long for—to experience the direct guidance and presence of God in their lives. The problem is that privilege without action leads to complacency.

Lot’s wife had the incredible opportunity to flee the city of Sodom, to escape its destruction. She had the chance to step into a new life and avoid the burning sulfur in her future. Not many receive such a clear opportunity for redemption. Yet, the very opportunity given to her was met with hesitation. Lot’s wife was part of a family that was chosen for salvation. She had the privilege of being surrounded by those who were meant to protect her spiritually. 

Lot, as her husband, was a righteous man who had made the choice to follow God. However at times his faith was a little cloudy, Peter still calls Lot a righteous man. 

With privilege comes the responsibility of choice. Lot’s wife had the opportunity to escape and start anew, but her heart was still tied to the life she was leaving behind. Her choice to look back was a rejection of the new life God was offering her. How easy it is to cling to the past, even when we know it is harmful.

God has blessed us with so many privileges in Christ like salvation, grace, prayer, and forgiveness. But how quickly we often throw it all away. Lot’s wife is a reminder that regardless of what privileges you may have, you can still choose to look away and let sin take control. It also doesn’t matter who is in your life, you will have to answer for your own choices. Lot’s uncle was Abraham, and that meant nothing to his wife. She was warned about the future. But she didn’t seem to believe the word of God. We have also been warned, and God gives us the choice to turn to His Son, or turn back to a life of sin. 

Pause And Be Grateful

Neal Pollard

When do we normally appreciate good health? Often, it is when we are aching and running a fever (or worse). When do we most keenly contemplate financial security? For many, it is in a time of financial crisis. take away food and water, and you see how vital and blessed it is to have such provisions. When things are going wrong, we wistfully long for and desire that feeling and state when things are all right.

When was the last time we thanked God for these things when they were not a pressing need or something elusive to our grasp? It is harder to remember these things when all is well. Yet, don’t you think God is pleased and impressed with a heart that knows how to be grateful at times when those things are abundantly present in that life? How must He appreciate the person who wakes up or pauses through the day, assesses life, and from the overflow of thanksgiving tells God in heartfelt sincerity how much he or she appreciates the cornucopia of blessings.

It takes so little effort, but it shows such spiritual maturity and goodness. Remember that God is pleased with such sacrifices as doing good (Heb. 13:16), which showing gratitude certainly is (Psa. 92:1). Won’t you say with David, “I will give thanks to the Lord with all my heart…” (Psa. 9:1a). He is imminently worthy and we are infinitely indebted!

Passive Prayer

Carl Pollard

Far too often we believe (or act) as though once we pray about something, we don’t have to do anything more. It’s almost as if we see devotion to God and helping others as being mutually exclusive. We will pray for someone who is hurting, sick, or hungry and then do nothing more. Jesus prayed often, for long periods of time, but He was never passive. He didn’t separate faith from action. Jesus would pray, then heal. He believed, then acted. He would preach, then live what He taught. 

Why do we think it would be any different? 

Could it be that we are the answer to our prayers more often than we realize? Maybe we are the ones to comfort those who are mourning. Maybe we are the ones who are supposed to feed the hungry. Maybe we are the ones who need to study with the lost. 

It’s important we pray for others, but we cannot be passive and expect our prayers to be answered. 

Jesus warned against being passive. 

In Matthew 25:31-46, Jesus is teaching about the final judgment we will all face in the end. 

Notice how Jesus rejects those who aren’t concerned for the physical well-being of others. He will have nothing to do with Christians who fail to have an active prayer life. Verses 33-40 say, “And he will place the sheep on his right, but the goats on the left. Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’” 

A prayer by itself won’t clothe someone. 

Prayer by itself won’t fill an empty stomach

A prayer with no action will never give someone a drink. Jesus accepts those who DO SOMETHING. Prayer should open our eyes to the needs of those around us. If we have a say in the matter, if we have the ability to change someone’s circumstances WE ARE THE ANSWER TO OUR PRAYERS. 

Then, in verses 41-46, Jesus says, “Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not clothe me, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.’ Then they also will answer, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to you?’ Then he will answer them, saying, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.’ And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”“

Jesus will reject a spirituality that is not concerned for the tangible needs of those around us. People matter to God, so much so that our eternity depends on how we care for anyone we may meet. Don’t get me wrong, God expects us to pray for others (Jesus’ example of prayer included praying for our enemies and those we love), but He also expects us to be His hands and feet. 

James 2:14-17 says, “What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.”

Unfortunately, we often use prayer as a substitute for action. In fact, it sounds so spiritual to say that we will pray about it; but highly hypocritical to have the tools and resources to do something about it but not act. Wives, how would you feel if you went to your husbands and asked them to put together that piece of furniture you bought from the store and they answered by saying, “I’ll be praying about it.” Maybe you need the oil changed on your car and they say, “I’ll definitely be praying that gets taken care of.” How frustrating would that be? 

At some point our prayers should open our eyes to the works we should be doing!

Like Jesus, we should pray as though it all depended on God, but act responsibly and obediently as though it all depended on us.

He prayed over big decisions, then did something. In His prayers, He was never passive. We would do well to imitate His example! 

Succeed In Everything

2 CHRONICLES 31

Dale Pollard

Hezekiah “prospered in everything” (2 Chron. 31.21) because…

HEZEKIAH WAS DETERMINED TO PUT GOD BACK WHERE HE BELONGED (v.2)

”Hezekiah assigned the priests and Levites to divisions—each of them according to their duties as priests or Levites—to offer burnt offerings and fellowship offerings, to minister, to give thanks and to sing praises at the gates of the LORD’s dwelling.”

HE DEDICATED HIMSELF TO SERVICE (v.3)

“The king contributed from his own possessions for the morning and evening burnt offerings and for the burnt offerings on the Sabbaths, at the New Moons and at the appointed festivals as written in the Law of the LORD.”

HE DEVELOPED HIMSELF AND OTHERS (v.4)

“He ordered the people living in Jerusalem to give the portion due the priests and Levites so they could devote themselves to the Law of the LORD.”

HIS DEVOTION WAS DESIRED BY OTHERS v.5-6) 

Israel gave generously until there were heaps of their offerings piled up. 

HE DIRECTED ALL THE GLORY TOWARD GOD (v.8) 

When Hezekiah and his officials came and saw the heaps, they praised the LORD and blessed his people Israel.

He Wasn’t Perfect But… 

What’s written about him in the summation of his life declares that Hezekiah was the last time Israel, or the world, would know a righteous king until Jesus appeared on earth (Matt. 1.10ff). 

“Hezekiah trusted in the LORD, the God of Israel. There was no one like him among all the kings of Judah, either before him or after him. He held fast to the LORD and did not stop following him; he kept the commands the LORD had given Moses” (2 Kgs 18.5-6). 

1 Corinthians: “That There Be No Divisions Among You” (II)

THE PURPOSE OF THE LETTER (1:1-17)

Neal Pollard

When I was in elementary school, we had a teacher who taught us how to properly write a letter. Miss Crews, my fourth grade teacher, told us it included the heading, greeting, body, complimentary closing, and signature. Isn’t it interesting what we retain (or fail to retain) from childhood?

Applying that basic analysis to the New Testament epistles, we are greatly helped. In addition to reading who it is from (1:1) and who it is to (1:2), we have a heading (helped by the information in verse 2), greeting (1:3), body (1:4-16:18), complimentary closing (16:19-20, 22-24), and signature (16:21). It is also in this first section of the letter (1:1-17) that we find the purpose of the letter. Notice some key aspects of these first several verses.

PAUL REMINDS THEM OF WHO THEY ARE (1:2-3)

In the daily grind, I can be apt to forget exactly who I am and who God has called me to be. It seems this had happened to the entire congregation at Corinth. Paul starts out this letter by reminding them they belong to God, set apart, and recipients of grace and peace. 

PAUL TELLS THEM WHAT GOD HAS DONE FOR THEM (1:4-9)

Except for Galatians, Paul begins his letters with a prayer, blessing, or thanksgiving. Here, Paul reminds them of how blessed they are–with grace (1:4), riches (1:5), confirmation (1:6), various blessings (1:7), hope (1:8), and fellowship with the Father and Son (1:9). I don’t know about you, but I often need to be reminded of how mindful the Lord has been of me. I need to reflect on my blessings so I won’t obsess over my problems. Paul is going to be addressing a serious problem in their lives, but he starts by centering their focus on their spiritual treasures. 

PAUL URGES SOMETHING OF THEM (1:10-17)

One of the ways a New Testament writer indicated the purpose of his writing is through petition verbs. While Paul actually uses a petition verb three times in this letter (1:10, 4:16, and 16:15), there’s no doubt that his first usage sets the tone for the rest of the letter. They have a big problem at Corinth: division. We will see this in greater detail as we walk through the letter, but their division was seen in their allegiances to men instead of Christ, in their worship services, in their exercise of spiritual gifts, in their exercise of their Christian liberties, in their view on various sins, and more. So, Paul brings them into focus here.

  • He urges them to be complete, by being of the same mind and judgment (1:10).
  • He urges them to see the true nature of Christ (1:11-13).
  • He urges them to focus on the gospel and the cross (1:14-17). 

Keep in mind, as we read through this letter, that God had something He wanted Corinth and all subsequent churches and Christians facing the same general struggle to understand. It requires us to keep sight of our identity, blessings, and purpose. Otherwise, we open the door to division which can be the gateway to “disorder and every evil thing” (Jas. 3:16). 

Colossians Imperatives

Gary Pollard

We can learn a lot about an epistle just by looking at its imperatives. An imperative is a command. Paul’s letters become especially clear when listing out the commands in them! There’s more to understanding a letter than this, but it’s a great place to start. For example, here are the imperatives in Colossians: 

  1. Follow Christ Only (2.6)
  2. Do not Follow Man’s Traditions (2.8)
  3. Don’t Let Anyone Force You into Traditions (2.16)
  4. Live for What is Above (3.1)
  5. Think Only about What is Above (3.2)
  6. Kill Every Immoral Behavior You Have (3.5)
  7. Throw Away Bad Behaviors (3.8)
  8. Do not Lie to Each Other (3.9)
  9. Adopt Godly Traits (3.12)
  10. Always be Grateful (3.15)
  11. Let Jesus’s Teachings Live in You (3.16)
  12. Wives, Submit to Your Husbands (3.18)
  13. Husbands, Love Your Wives (3.19)
  14. Husbands, do not do Things that Make Your Wife Bitter (3.19)
  15. Children, Submit to Your Parents (3.20)
  16. Fathers, do not Harass Your Children to the Point of Exasperation (21)
  17. Servants, Submit to Your Masters in Everything (22)
  18. Servants, Act as Though You Work for God, not a Human Master (3.23)
  19. Servants, Remember that You are a Slave for Christ First (3.24)
  20. Masters, Remember that You Have a Master in the Sky (4.1)
  21. Never Stop Praying (4.2)
  22. Make Sure You Behave around People Who don’t Believe (4.5)
  23. Say Hi to Everyone in Laodicea for Us (4.15)
  24. Read This Letter to the Church in Laodicea (4.16)
  25. Tell Archippus, “Do the Work God Gave You” (4.17)
  26. Remember Me in Prison (4.18)

See? You can use the commands to make a simple outline of the letter and get a good idea of what’s going on! There’s a good chance I’ve missed a couple, so if y’all find an imperative that isn’t on this list, shoot it my way. 

If The Gospel Isn’t Working

Dale Pollard
The longest train ever recorded in history was the Australian BHP Iron Ore. The cars behind it stretched approximately 4.6 miles. To provide some mind-boggling perspective here's what one train-fanatic wrote, 

“Driven by a single driver, the line’s 99,734-ton and 682-car train was able to carry 82,000 tons (181 million pounds) of iron ore. The Australian BHP Iron Ore can fit about 24 Eiffel Towers…The weight of this train being the same as about 402 Statues of Liberty.”

Trains are impressive heavy-haulers, but only under the right conditions. On the tracks they’ll whistle while they work but once they’re derailed— they only whistle. Trains don’t work without tracks. 

Paul would make an interesting appeal to the saints who met at the infant church family in Thessalonica. He asks that they pray for the powerful gospel to have a straight path so it could move quickly. His exact words were,

“pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run swiftly and be glorified…”

2 Thess. 3.1b 

In a simple yet inspired prayer request a practical and profound implication steps out of subtlety— Prayerlessness will hinder the furtherance of the gospel. 

Based on this text, the content of congregational prayers may be in need of careful inspection. Reevaluating your evangelistic ministries, online presence, visibility in the community, advertising efforts, kingdom expenditures, and even the dynamics the worship service— all must fall below the prayer line on the priority list.  

While Paul was writing to the Thessalonians, God was writing to the rest of us. He reminds us that this request should ring in the prayers of His congregations today. The written petition by itself informs the modern church that this is something that God is willing and able to do for us, He would just have us ask. The powerful gospel needs prayer— like a train needs tracks. 

A 21st century church member may occasionally think 

The gospel doesn’t seem to be as convicting in my community. It works just fine in other parts of the world, and it worked well in the past— but not so much here and now. 

More Reasons Can Be Found 

Here: James 4.2-3 
Here: Matthew 21.22 
And Here: Ephesians 6.19-20 



———————————
Quote, (A-z-trains.com)

YOU LOVE SOMEBODY WHO’S LOST

Dale Pollard

Recently I had the privilege to attend the funeral of a godly man. Since he lived faithfully—  it was a celebration. Funerals have a negative connotation with them but they’re really only all bad when the one who’s passed on did so outside of Christ. 

You and I may wish for a longer life for ourselves and those we love but the ironic truth for the faithful Christian is this— the first to accept God’s decision of death is the one who died.

The faithful go to heaven and the lost do not. While we enjoy talking about  and thinking about those who will and have been eternally saved, it’s just as important to remind ourselves of those who find themselves in the other camp.

 It’s easy to forget that people are lost and maybe it’s because they’re easier to push to the back of our minds. It’s not a pleasant thought by any means and doing something about it tends to make us uncomfortable. 

It hurts and it’s hard to become attached to anyone who isn’t living faithfully because they’re lost. That means they’re not going to heaven. Sometimes the lost pretend as if that’s not their reality by distracting themselves with the things that make them feel as if they’re not lost (Ecc. 2.24-25). 

There’s a good chance that you know people who aren’t going to heaven and it’s even likely that you love people who aren’t. We’ve got to convince them to hear Jesus out— no matter what it takes. 

What can we do? 

  1. We can simplify spiritual concepts so that people can understand a message that they desperately need to hear. Try to teach Jesus differently. Approach His will for their lives from different angles. How can Jesus help their marriage? Their children? Their addiction? 
  2. Please don’t let anything get in your way of going home. Don’t let friends and loved ones who aren’t living faithfully bring you down. Not only do you ultimately lose, but your loved ones outside of Christ have lost their greatest chance of coming into the Light. 
  3. Don’t ever lose hope. There may be unique and seemingly impossible odds stacked against you and your mission to convert the lost, but don’t put God in a human-sized box. Pray often and live in hopeful expectation. 

“For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit.”Romans 8.5 

From Disciple To Devil

Dale Pollard

Matthew, Mark, and Luke’s gospels all showcase for us the growth of Peter as a Christ-follower. In Matthew’s account Peter will be praised by Jesus— then rebuked by Him. The roller coaster ride Peter experienced is felt in the text but there’s more to this account than just an uncomfortable interaction. Peter declares the sonship of Christ through heavenly revelation, then Jesus refers to him as Satan just a few verses later. 

“From that time on Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.

Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. “Never, Lord!” he said. “This shall never happen to you!”

Jesus turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human.” – Matt. 16.21-23

When we step back and look at the chapter as a whole we can see Peter’s response to Jesus as he informs  them (the disciples) that He must die and be raised seems to be one motivated purely out of love. Peter doesn’t want his teacher, friend, and master to die. That’s understandable. He even takes the Lord aside so as to not rebuke Jesus in front of the other disciples. This wasn’t something done in Peter’s mind to thwart the plans of God, but the response to this is unexpected. Did Peter deserve to be called Satan? 

His rebuke was a stumbling block to Jesus. 

Jesus was on a mission but the Pharisees, Scribes, the Roman government, and plenty of others had made the ministry of Jesus difficult- still He was able to overcome. When challenged by them Jesus was able to masterfully handle their questions and accusations. Those were challenges He faced by the wicked and cunning crowds, but someone as close to Jesus as Peter would have presented a different temptation. It’s difficult for us to hear persuasive voices from those close to us like friends and family. They have the ability to talk you out of or into all manner of things and many times this is a great help. Their advice is often appreciated more than those of outsiders. However this can also be a challenge to us in negative ways if their counsel leads us further from God. Peter deserved such a swift and blunt response because it was a threat to the will of the Father, and this is a good principle for us to follow today. 

Jesus Is Better (II)

Gary Pollard

Humans have a tendency to project their own weaknesses onto others. We are all guilty of this. Sometimes that carries over to our prayers — can Jesus forgive me, even with how I’ve failed him over and over? Sometimes we find it hard to forgive others, so we may assume Jesus feels the same when we beg his forgiveness. We’re only forgiven to the extent that we forgive others, but it seems we (that includes me) project our human weakness onto Jesus. 

Jesus is still human, but perfect. He’s human, but at God’s right hand. He’s human, so he understands and feels for our weakness. “We have a better high priest, one who understands our weakness, even though he never sinned.” Jesus gets it! It must’ve been a miserable few decades in a constant war with himself. He was tempted every single way that we are, but never made a mistake. 

How many people do you know who are tempted by everything? Most of us have a few weaknesses, and those are hard enough to manage. But imagine being tempted by every single thing that had ever or would ever tempt a human! Jesus understands, even though he never sinned. That’s our perfect high priest! He can say to the father, “I understand how difficult [your temptation here] is to face.” 

Jesus is better because he knows what we go through, he’s experienced it all, and he never once made a mistake. He didn’t do that to make us feel inadequate — though we are all inadequate by ourselves — but to help us when we fall. Jesus is better because he’s a high priest who can empathize with every human on the planet, and he lives to do just that for us! 

Faith In A Post-Pandemic World:

Perseverance Amidst Challenge

Brent Pollard

As a global learner, I enjoy having background noise serve as the soundtrack to my life. It could be music or a talking head providing news or opinions. I can block out the details and rely on the background noise to keep me going. In addition to learning strategies, individuals with ADHD like myself find certain grooves oddly exhilarating, similar to an energy drink. I frequently run errands on Thursdays each week, and this week was no exception. Therefore, it was inevitable that I would have my “symphony” supporting me. Amid the hustle and bustle, I heard a headline stating that more than half of American “clergy” have considered quitting since 2020 (see Blair, 2024). 

Whenever I encounter such information, I look into it further. After I finished my errands, I looked up an article about the subject online. For the sake of brevity, the study concluded that the changing religious landscape following the pandemic was the primary source of discontent. These “clergy” have claimed that the pandemic has made it more difficult for them to interact with congregations and that the decline in in-person attendance depresses them. According to the demographics of those surveyed, the so-called Silents (born 1925–1945) and Generation X (born 1965–1980) are less likely to want to quit than Millenials (born 1981–1996) and Baby Boomers (born 1946–1964). Catholic and Orthodox ministers were less likely to feel this way than Protestants.

These attention-grabbing headlines no doubt fill our hearts with existential dread. However, we must realize Jesus’ promise that even death could not prevail against His Church (Matthew 16.18). One knows that regardless of how dire things in the world may seem, there are always those not bowing the knee to Baal (1 Kings 19.18). Hence, Satan could be the author of such headlines designed to discourage the faithful disciples of Jesus Christ. Satan whispers, “You are all alone in your devotion. And would a loving God truly expect you to shoulder these burdens alone?” 

But lest we grow too comfortable, we are reminded of Jesus’ words following the Parable of the Unjust Judge, also known as The Persistent Widow (Luke 18.1–8). Jesus asked, “When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?” I know that contextually, Jesus is asking if His followers will have the faith to pray. At least, other preachers often say this as they exegete Luke 18.8. Well, yes. But is it so tidily summed up in the one word “prayer”? Jesus’ question is whether people will continue to believe and be faithful, even in the face of delays or challenges, just as the widow was persistent in her pursuit of justice. As a result, we can interpret this verse as an encouragement to keep the faith and pray, even when justice appears slow, or God’s promises appear delayed. It expresses a theme of perseverance and faithfulness in the Christian life, particularly in light of Jesus’ return.

Jesus expressed concern about whether He would find faithful followers upon His return. The followers can show their faithfulness to Him by exercising their faith through prayer. Unfortunately, people prefer tangible things over intangible ones, leading to practical materialism and a lack of faith. Additionally, scientific advancements may encourage disbelief by providing natural explanations. The hurried, self-centered, and financially motivated nature of the modern age can also undermine faith, which requires quiet contemplation. Faith is a moral quality rooted in the heart, not just an intellectual asset. It grows by living a righteous life, feeding on Biblical promises, and putting one’s limited faith into practice. Therefore, building faith requires setting aside regular quiet time for meditation and communing with God. Faith progresses through continual moral effort.

We are currently living in a time where people are hesitant to return to the Church after the pandemic, which was a time of isolation and a shift in priorities for many. In addition, those who provide moral leadership face challenges, feeling a growing temptation to step away from their roles. This combination of factors is worrisome in response to our Lord’s probing question in Luke 18.8. This study paints a concerning picture of the future of spiritual commitment and the resilience of faith communities. 

However, despite these challenges, there remains a beacon of hope. The persistence of faith, even in a few, can be a powerful testament to the enduring nature of spiritual commitment. In the face of adversity, the true strength of faith often emerges, not just in the tranquility of prosperous times but in the tumult of trials. To answer Jesus’ question and reaffirm enduring faith and commitment, faith communities must explore ways to nurture resilience and adapt and thrive.

In today’s world, we face various challenges that can test the foundations of our faith communities. Distractions and the effects of global pandemics can make it difficult to hold onto our beliefs. However, these challenges can also provide opportunities for spiritual growth and renewal. Jesus’ question in Luke 18.8 invites us to deepen our faith, pray more persistently, and live out our beliefs with renewed vigor and commitment. As believers, we all have a unique role in this ongoing faith journey. Instead of seeing our challenges as insurmountable obstacles, let us embrace them as catalysts for strengthening our collective resolve. Doing so ensures that Jesus will find a thriving and active faith on earth when He returns.

[In case you need the link given above: https://www.christianpost.com/news/over-half-of-american-pastors-have-considered-quitting-poll.html ]

Effective Prayers For An Election Year

Dale Pollard

God’s people are going to be lifting up many prayers for the USA this year. In order for those prayers to be as potent as possible, here’s four biblical principles that will give them more power. 

  1. Evaluate your spiritual life. The prayers of righteous men and women make the most impact (James 5:16). 
  2. God can’t be seen as just one option. Think of the rascally child who, after receiving a “no” from his father, approaches his mother in secret seeking a “yes.” That child should receive a stern chat— perhaps a spanking? When we approach God, we must do so with His will above our wants. Sometimes the two line up! If they don’t, accept the answer and press on. 
  3. Saturate your petitions with praise and thankfulness. Even when odd viruses seem to mysteriously appear or the “wrong” man takes the office— God deserves your praise with a thankful heart. After all, He reigns with perfection and justice on His throne (Psalm 97:1). God has given us the cure to a horrible sickness that not even all the scientists in the world could cure (Ephesians 2:8). Nothing that happens today or any day will ever change those things. We’ve only just scratched the surface here, too. God deserves every bit of your praise and thankfulness, no matter what. 
  4. Don’t miss the big picture when you pray. Our minds have a way of fooling us into thinking that current events are the big picture. That’s just not true. What’s more important? The growth and faith of every member in His church. For an encouraging study, look at all the congregations in biblical history that were built up numerically and spiritually— despite who was leading the country at the time. What’s most important is not this country or nation, it’s His kingdom and that kingdom to come. 

Are you righteous? Please pray for this world and pray for His church. If there’s something keeping you from the righteousness of God, that’s far more urgent than anything else and that’s what deserves your full attention. 

Let’s be a happy and hopeful people— let’s be those who practice righteousness. 

The Last Public Prayer of Jesus

Carl Pollard

Spending time focused on the family is a necessity. God has given parents a responsibility that should never be taken lightly. There are many opportunities in the church that we can take advantage of to create unified families– youth rallies, potlucks, family retreats, and so much more! Spending time together as a unified body, made up of many individual families, is a unique blessing only found in the church. When we choose to bring our families together and worship, eat food, and enjoy fellowship in Christ we imitate the early church.

In Acts 2, the church has just been established, and they eat together, sing together, learn together, pray together, and loved to spend time with each other. A close family In Christ spends time together. Worshipping together is a unifying process, but time spent together outside of the worship setting contributes to growth in our relationships with each other. 

Shared history makes for a closer bond. Creating memories with our spiritual family builds unity. 

That should be our goal today, tomorrow, and for our entire time on this earth. What does the Bible say about the fellowship we have together as a family? 

We are given all kinds of descriptive names in the Bible. 

The early church was called: 

  • Those of the Way
  • The Called out
  • Christians

All of these names paint for us a special picture. Those in Christ are FAMILY. We are unified with each other by a bond stronger than any force on earth. June 4th, 1940 Winston Churchill gave a powerful speech that changed the tone of the Second World War. In his speech he said, “we shall fight on the beaches,
 we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills.” 

Sadly, in today’s society this sounds like a description of most people’s family vacation…uh ha haaa. 

When there is a lack of unity in our physical families, there will be a lack of unity in the spiritual family. For us to understand the importance of the fellowship we have in Christ, we need to define some terms. The Greek word translated “fellowship” in Acts 2:42 is koinonia. This is defined as “Close association involving mutual interests.” Basically, it is a group of people who have a tight bond because they all have the same interests.

Christian fellowship, then, is the mutually beneficial relationship between Christians, who can’t have the identical relationship with those outside the faith. We are, or should be, closer to each other than anyone in the world. This is a FAMILY. God expects us to have mutual interests, (His Will) and to spend time together building a mutually beneficial relationship. 

So, what is Christian Fellowship? The context for the “high priestly prayer” in John 17 actually begins back in chapter 13. This is the last supper. Jesus washes the disciples feet, He tells the apostles one of them will betray Him, Satan enters into Judas, Jesus tells His followers to love each other, Simon is told he will deny Christ, Jesus tells us He is the Way, the truth and the life, Jesus promises the Spirit to the apostles, He tells them that He is the true vine, that they will be hated by the world, BUT, He has overcome the world. 

After He says all of this, “Jesus lifts His eyes up to heaven and begins to pray” (John 17:1). This prayer is powerful, it’s humbling, it’s personal. Jesus truly cared for His disciples, and He cares for us today. This was the last prayer the apostles would hear before His death. Immediately after He finished they went to the garden and Jesus was arrested. So the question is, what does Jesus pray for just moments before His crucifixion? UNITY! Jesus was concerned about His apostles, He wanted them to be one, and He prayed for every Christian to be one! The bond we have through Christ is so precious, we should never neglect the family Christ died to create. 

In John 17:20-26, Jesus prays specifically for those who will believe the apostles’ teachings, that is, US. 

Why should we be so concerned about our unity? Because Christ died to create what we have today. And we can show the world the Father by creating lasting relationships with each other.