Jesus’ bold church (part 11)

Of the first ten posts on Jesus’ bold church, five dealt with the seven churches discussed in Revelation chapters two and three. Consider this. Do you think that all seven of the churches believed that they were doing GOD’S WILL?
I don’t know the answer with certainty because the Bible does not specifically say what each of the seven churches believed in this area. My guess though is that each church thought they were doing that which was commanded by GOD. My guess is that each church thought that the church individually was being obedient to GOD. I believe they may have thought they were being bold churches for the LORD. After all, isn’t that why each church was in existence? To spread the WORD of GOD among the unbelieving.
Yet, of the seven churches only two escaped without rebuke. Five churches were commanded by JESUS the CHRIST to repent for not doing GOD’S WILL completely.
Four of the five churches were commended for doing at least some things in obedience to GOD. However, they needed to repent. One area of condemnation was for allowing sin and false teachings to exist within the individual church. Is that occurring with churches today? Is every body that claims to be a part of the church today actually being obedient to the WILL of GOD? Are there bodies that claim to a part of the church which are doing their own will instead of obediently obeying GOD’S WILL?
This we do know. The church in Laodicea thought that it was rich. JESUS rebuked the church for not being rich but for being just the opposite. “’You say, ‘I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.’ But you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked.’ Revelation 3: 17 (NIV)
JESUS also rebuked the same church for being lukewarm. How many bodies which claim to be a part of the church are lukewarm today and don’t seem to realize it? How many bodies which claim to be a part of the church today need to REPENT?
How can any church be obedient to GOD if it is involved in sin? How can any church fulfill its mission from GOD if it is not obedient to GOD? How many do not even realize that they are in need of REPENTANCE? How many need to examine themselves in light of the WORD of GOD? How many need to REPENT?

Jesus' bold church (part 10)

This is part 10 of a series I’ve written this year on JESUS’ bold church. It occurred to me this weekend that I have not defined what I mean by the church. The term church may have different connotations to different people. Looking church up in my dictionary, I found the following definitions:
“1: a building for public and esp. Christian worship”
“2: the clergy or officialdom of a religious body”
“3: a body or organization of religious believers: as a: the whole body of Christians b: denomination c: congregation”
“4: a public divine worship (goes to ~ every Sunday)”
“5: the clerical profession (considered the ~ as a possible career) Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary; Tenth Edition; Merriam-Webster, Incorporated, Springfield, Massachusetts, U.S.A.; © 1995; page 205.    
     I am using the term in two senses. First, “the whole body of Christians.” I believe that is one of the two ways church is used in the New Testament. Secondly, as a local congregation or body of Christian believers as the term seems to be used in chapters two and three of the book of Revelation. Unless it seems obvious that the reference is to a local body of Christians, I am probably using the term to mean “the whole body of Christians.”
     From my study of the New Testament, I do not know of any instance where the term church is used to mean a building, the clergy, a denomination, public worship, or the clerical profession. In fact, I believe the concept of denominations is absolutely unbiblical. I know of no references to a denomination in the New Testament. I know of no instance where a Christian was allowed to pick and choose what doctrines he could or could not follow. I know of no instance where a Christian was allowed to pick and choose who he would worship with or how he would worship.
     In fact, JESUS prayed: “’My prayer is not for them (the apostles—my addition) alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.’” John 17: 20-23 (NIV)  
     It seems obvious that JESUS’ bold church (“the whole body of Christians”) should be united. Complete unity was prayed for by JESUS. For Christians not to be united is to be in disobedience to JESUS’ and GOD’S will. To be a bold church, it seems obvious to me, that Christians need to be united in obedience to the WORD of GOD—the Bible. If true followers of the CHRIST are not in obedience to HIS WILL and therefore not united those who are outside of HIS WILL must repent just as was necessary for five of the seven churches in chapters two and three of Revelation.
     The apostle Paul discussed divisions within the church at Corinth in I Corinthians. “I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought. My brothers, some from Chloe’s household have informed me that there are quarrels among you. What I mean is this: One of you says, ‘I follow Paul’; another, ‘I follow Apollos’; another ‘I follow Cephas (that is, Peter—footnote a); still another, ‘I follow Christ.’
     Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized into the name of Paul?” I Corinthians 1: 10-13 (NIV)
     Paul was writing to a local body of the church. Christians within the local church were claiming to follow the teachings of Paul, Apollos, Cephas, or JESUS the CHRIST. But in fact, all Christians must follow JESUS the CHRIST and not the individuals who teach the truth in CHRIST. Only JESUS the CHRIST is the SAVIOR of mankind. Paul is not. Apollos is not. Cephas is not.
Now do this—substitute the names of denominations for the names of those Christians who are following Christ. I follow Methodists. I follow Baptists. I follow Lutherans. I follow what ever organization. WRONG!!! WRONG!!! WRONG!!!. There is only one church! The church are Christians who are obedient to CHRIST, GOD, and the HOLY SPIRIT. There is not; nor can there be, according to GOD’S HOLY WILL, more than one church!!!          
     “Now I (the apostle Paul—my addition) rejoice in what was suffered for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ’s afflictions, for the sake of his (CHRIST—my addition) body, which is the church. I have become its servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness—the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the saints (all Christians—my addition). To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches to this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.
     We proclaim him (CHRIST—my addition), admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ.” Colossians 1: 24-28 (NIV)
     What is HIS body? It is the Church! “As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I (the apostle Paul—my addition) urge you to live a life worthy of the calling (being a Christian—my addition) you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called—one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all..” Ephesians 4: 1-6 (NIV) How many bodies are there? ONE BODY!!! What is that body? It is the church! THERE IS ONE CHURCH—“the whole body of Christians.” Nowhere in the Bible does it declare that there is more than one church—the whole body of Christians. Nowhere in the Bible does it mention denominations.
So, if there is only one church, why are there so many denominations? Are those multiple denominations obedient to GOD’S word if GOD demands obedience to HIS WORD and they are following different and contradictory beliefs not found in GOD’S WORD. If there is only one church and the Bible proclaims that there is only one church, why do people who claim to be Christian declare that I follow Methodists, I follow Baptists, I follow Lutherans, I follow Roman Catholics, on infinite? Where is the unity in CHRIST prayed for by CHRIST? Where is JESUS’ bold church?
Finally, note this dire pronouncement by Paul. “I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel—which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let him be eternally condemned! As we have already said, so now I say again: If anybody is preaching to you a gospel other than what you accepted, let him be eternally condemned!” Galatians 1: 6-9 (NIV) There is only one gospel just as there is only one church. Do not follow man-made lies that are contrary to the gospel as clearly given in the Bible! Be a follower of CHRIST, be a Christian, be a part of the one and only true church. Do not be a part of the perversion of the gospel. Do not be condemned. Do not be confused. Study GOD’S WORD! Learn GOD’S WILL! BELIEVE! REPENT! CONFESS that JESUS is LORD and SAVIOR! Be BAPTIZED into CHRIST! Be OBEDIENT to HIS WILL! BE a part of JESUS’ bold church!      
       
     

Jesus' bold church (part 9)

The last four posts, I have quoted from Revelation chapters 2 and 3. Of the seven churches discussed in those two chapters, five were rebuked for their actions to some extent. Tonight, the final church of the seven churches—the church in Laodicea.
‘”These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God’s creation. I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither cold nor hot—I am about to spit you out of my mouth. You say, ‘I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see.
Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent. Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.
To him who overcomes, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I overcame and sat down with my Father on his throne. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’” Revelation 3: 14b-22 (NIV)
Again, I am not going to analyze this passage but will point out the following: Note that in all the passages: the speaker is JESUS. HE is speaking to HIS church. HE is commending HIS church where commendation is warranted. HE is rebuking HIS church where rebuke is needed. HE is warning HIS church where warning is necessary. He is saving HIS church where saving is justified. HE is condemning portions of HIS church where condemnation is required. Note also the true statement that is ridiculed by the world in their ignorance:  HE is “the ruler of God’s creation.” GOD created everything and JESUS is the ruler of everything until HE returns it to HIS FATHER.
Unlike any of the other six churches, the church at Laodicea receives no commendation. Instead, the church receives the harshest rebuke of the seven. Why? Because the church is lukewarm. The church is neither hot nor cold. I take that as the church trying to appease the world while wanting to at least outwardly please JESUS. The church seems to want one foot in the world enjoying its pleasures and one foot with JESUS trying to also benefit from the spiritual. It just does not work in JESUS’ eyes. JESUS proclaims in Matthew 6: 24 (NIV) “’No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.’” The church at Laodicea seems to be attempting to do just that. JESUS strongly rebukes the church because of that lukewarm alliance that can not continually exist. “No one can serve two masters.”
The church, as with the others who are rebuked, is warned to REPENT. All five churches who are not boldly serving JESUS and teaching the TRUTH are warned to REPENT. If not, the church will be spit from JESUS’ mouth. The church is given the opportunity through REPENTANCE and OBEDIENCE to cover their sins. The church is admonished to see with its eyes and hear with its ears.
THE TRUTH is readily available to all who are willing to see and hear, REPENT and OBEY. The reward is eternity with JESUS!  
      

      

Jesus' bold church (part 8)

The last three posts, I have quoted from Revelation chapters 2 and 3. Of the seven churches discussed in those two chapters, five were rebuked for their actions to some extent. Tonight, two more of those churches who were rebuked.
“’These are the words of the Son of God, whose eyes are like blazing fire and whose feet are like burnished bronze. I know your deeds, your love and faith, your service and perseverance, and that you are now doing more than you did at first.
Nevertheless, I have this against you: You tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess. By her teaching she misleads my servants into sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols. I have given her time to repent of her immorality, but she is unwilling. So I will cast her on a bed of suffering, and I will make those who commit adultery with her suffer intensely, unless they repent of her ways. I will strike her children dead. Then all the churches will know that I am he who searches hearts and minds, and I will repay each of you according to your deeds. Now I say to the rest of you in Thyatira, to you who do not hold to her teaching and have not learned Satan’s so-called deep secrets (I will not impose any other burden on you): Only hold on to what you have until I come.
   To him who overcomes and does my will to the end, I will give authority over all the nations—‘He will rule them with an iron scepter; he will dash them to pieces like pottery’—just as I have received authority from my Father. I will also give him the morning star. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’” Revelation 2: 18b-29 (NIV)
As previously done, I am not going to analyze this passage but will point out the following:
1) The church has positive deeds.
2) The church has love.
3) The church has faith.
4) The church has positive service.
5) The church has perseverance.
6) The church is doing more that it was doing at first.
7) The faithful believers of the church are to hold on to what they have without deviating from GOD’S true will.
8) The faithful believers of the church are to hear what the Spirit of GOD declares to the churches, believe, and be obedient to what they hear.
This church also receives condemnation:
The church has been tolerating sin. The sin is identified through the person Jezebel. Who is Jezebel? The Bible in this passage does not identify her. Some commentators believe she is an actual individual. Some believe the name is symbolic. Jezebel was an evil queen in the Old Testament (I & II Kings). Regardless, she is identified as leading JESUS’ servants into sin. Two sins are specifically mentioned. They are the same two sins which brought condemnation to the church at Pergamum—sexual immorality and eating food sacrificed to idols. (Note this: When the Jewish Christians in the book of Acts were in disagreement as to what portions of the law of Moses newly baptized Gentile believers were to obey, four items were specifically listed. Two of those four were eating food sacrificed to idols and sexual immorality. “Then some of the believers who belonged to the party of the Pharisees stood up and said, ‘The Gentiles must be circumcised and required to obey the law of Moses.’” [Acts 15: 5 (NIV)] “It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us not to burden you with anything beyond the following requirements: You are to abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangle animals and from sexual immorality.” [Acts 15:28-29a (NIV)] The study of these passages is not the intent of this post tonight. It does seem though that some of the followers of GOD both in the Old and New Testaments had difficulty remaining true to GOD’S will [worshiping other things rather than the one true GOD and also indulging in all kinds of sexual immorality.]) It is declared that Jezebel was given the opportunity to REPENT and has refused to do so. She is condemned. Those in the church who have been following her ways are also given the opportunity to REPENT. If they too refuse to REPENT, they too will be condemned. JESUS knows our hearts and minds and JESUS refuses to allow sin to exist in HIS church. Christians must do JESUS’ will to the end!        
“’These are the words of him who holds the seven spirits of God and the seven stars. I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive but you are dead. Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have not found your deeds complete in the sight of God. Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; obey it, and repent. But if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what time I will come to you.
       Yet you have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their clothes. They will walk with me, dressed in white, for they are worthy. He who overcomes will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out his name from the book of life, but will acknowledge his name before my Father and his angels. He who has an ear, let him hear what the spirit says to the churches.’” Revelation 3: 1b-6 (NIV)
     The commendation for this church is extremely limited. There are only a few who have not sinned, only a few are worthy. However, if they remain true to JESUS’ will, they have the promise of eternal life with HIM and the FATHER. As with the previous five churches, we are to hear want the Spirit has to say to the churches.
     The rebuke? The church has a worldly reputation of being alive but it is really spiritually dead—at least almost spiritually dead. Since there are still a few people left in the church who are alive, the church has an opportunity to awake. The church is commanded to strengthen what remains least the church dies completely. The church is commanded to obey what they have received and heard. Those of the church who are in sin are commanded to REPENT. Of the six churches covered so far, this is the fourth church (or portions thereof) that has been commanded to REPENT!!!      

Jesus' bold church (part 7)

The last two posts, I quoted from Revelation chapters 2 and 3 concerning two churches described therein who were following GOD’S will. Of the seven churches discussed in those two chapters, five were rebuked for their actions to some extent. Tonight, the first two of those churches.
“’These are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven golden lampstands: I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked men, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary.
Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken your first love. Remember the height from which you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place. But you have this in your favor: You hate the practices of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.
He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.’” Revelation 2: 1b-7 (NIV)      
Again as before, I am not going to analyze this passage but will point out the following:
1) The church at Ephesus has positive attributes which are commended by JESUS.
2) The church has positive deeds, hard work, and has persevered.  
3) The church does not tolerate wickedness. (Note that this is the opposite of what society calls for. Today, the call seems to be to tolerate almost anything and everything. That is not the call of the church from GOD. The church must not ever tolerate evil in whatever form it takes—from murdering unborn babies to homosexual immorality.
4) The church is to test those who claim to be proclaiming GOD’S WORD and be able to recognize and reject false teaching.
5) The church has withstood hardships and persevered in JESUS’ name.
6) The church has not grown weary.
7) The church hates the practices of the Nicolaitans which JESUS also hates. (As far as I know, the Bible does not specifically define who the Nicolaitans are or what the practices hated are. Men have speculated but it is just that—speculation. What seems obvious is that these practices were sins since GOD hates sin. The church also should and must hate all sin. The key point is to hate the sin while still loving (wanting the GOD designed good for others) the sinner. Again, that does not mean tolerating the sinful acts of others as many seem to want the church to do today.
8) The churches are to hear what the Spirit has to say to the churches and are to overcome based upon what they hear.
     However, with all these positive attributes the church at Ephesus had one major condemnation pronounced again it.
1) The church had forsaken its first love. That first love is not identified in any other manner. Again, man has speculated as to just what is mean by the church’s first love. Some have said it is JESUS. Some have said it is the service that churches are to be involved with. Some have said it is the community of believers within the church. What ever it specifically means, it was obviously a major fault. The church is rebuked for falling from the height it had reached. The church is commanded to REPENT and turn back to doing the practices as a church that it had done originally. (A church can and some individual churches do change from GOD’S will to the desires of the church. That change is a sin that must result in repentance and a return to the will of the SAVIOR.) If the church does not repent the dire warning is that the lampstand will be removed. In Revelation 1: 20b the lampstand is defined as the church itself. Consequently, it seems apparent that if repentance does not occur, the church will be removed! GOD does not tolerate sin ever. GOD especially does not tolerate sin among his own. What an awesome warning to the church. REPENT or PERISH!!! Be BOLD, be OBEDIENT, or PERISH!!!            
“’These are the words of him who has the sharp, double-edged sword. I know where you live—where Satan has his throne. Yet you remain true to my name. You did not renounce your faith in me, even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city—where Satan lives.
Nevertheless, I have a few things against you: You have people there who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to entice the Israelites to sin by eating food sacrificed to idols and by committing sexual immorality. Likewise you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans. Repent therefore! Otherwise I will soon come to you and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.
He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give him a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to him who receives it.’” Revelation 2 12b-17 (NIV)       
Pointing out the following positive attributes:
1) The church at Pergamum has remained true to JESUS’ name
2) Even in persecution, the church did not renounce its faith in JESUS even while living amid sin.
3) The churches are to hear what the Spirit declares to the churches.
     This church also receives condemnation:
1) There are people within the church who are holding on to false teachings which specifically include eating food sacrifices to idols and committing sexual immorality (more on these in a later post).
2) The church has people within it that follow and practice the teachings of the Nicolaitans. Unlike the church at Ephesus which hated the practice of the Nicolaitans and was praised for it, the church at Pergamum actually had people who embraced these evil teachings. Would it be correct to say that the church at Pergamum tolerated the Nicolaitans while the church at Ephesus did not tolerate them? I think so. The result? JESUS does not allow for churches to tolerate sin!!! The world may teach toleration; GOD does not when it comes to sin!!!  
     The solution for the Pergamum church is the same as the solution for the Ephesus church in relation to sin: REPENT! If not, the church will be at war with JESUS. Any church or any person at war with JESUS without repentance loses!  

Jesus' bold church (part 6)

     My last post dealt with the church at Smyrna as presented in the book of Revelation chapter 2. Tonight, the church in Philadelphia as presented in Revelation chapter 3. The Philadelphia church is the sixth church discussed in chapters 2 and 3 of Revelation.
     “’These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open. I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name. I will make those who are of the synagogue of Satan, who claim to be Jews though they are not, but are liars—I will make them come and fall down at your feet and acknowledge that I have loved you. Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole earth to test those who live on the earth.
     I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown. Him who overcomes I will make a pillar in the temple of my God. Never again will he leave it. I will write on him the name of my God, the new Jerusalem, which is coming down out of heaven from my God; and I will also write on him my new name. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’” Revelation 3: 7b-13 (NIV)
     Again as was done last night, I am not going to analyze this passage but will point out the following:
1) The Philadelphia church, as well as the Smyrna church, did not receive any condemnation.
2) JESUS and GOD know the deeds of all the churches including the positive deeds of the Philadelphia church.
3) Even though it was known that the Philadelphia church had little strength as viewed by the world, the church kept GOD’S WORD and did not deny JESUS before the world.
4) Liars, who claim to be faithful followers but are not, will acknowledge that JESUS and GOD love the true members of the church.
5) The church at Philadelphia kept GOD’S command to endure and to endure patiently.
6) The church is to hold on. By holding on, the church has received and will hold on to a crown.
7) The church is promised eternal rest if it continues to hold on and endure.  
8) All churches are to hear what the Spirit says to the churches.

Jesus' bold church (part 5)

As I said in my second post of this year, I had not planned on doing more than one post on Jesus’ bold church. The original post was on December 16, 2006 ending my posts for that year. Late in December, I decided to do the three additional ones that I just completed. Then Sunday morning before going to corporate worship, I was watching a TV program that I watch every Sunday before worship. I thought what was being said was a good parallel to what I had been writing. I decided to include that material in the series as Jesus’ bold church (part 5).
     However, when I went onto the website early Monday morning to download a copy of the program, I discovered that they were not current. The last posted program was from Sunday morning December 24, 2006. I wasn’t certain how I wanted to proceed. I did not post Monday night and I went to bed not yet knowing what to do. I was stuck between posting other material on other topics and then posting part 5 when I could finally get a copy of the program or not posting anything until I could do part 5 to keep the continuity.
     Then, it hit me. Tuesday morning after waking up, the solution just popped into my head. I have been reading a book about the book of Revelation. There is material in Revelation that fits well with the concept of Jesus’ bold church. Therefore, I’m expanding this series once again.
     I realize that Revelation is probably the most “controversial” book in the New Testament. It seems that almost everyone has a different understanding of it. Certainly, the symbolism has caused problems in understanding the book. Nevertheless, I believe there are basic concepts that most everyone agrees to, to one extent or another. An obvious example is the ultimate victory of GOD over the forces of evil. In the same vein, I think most of those who adequately study Revelation would agree that chapters 2 and 3 provide some insight into Jesus’ church. They may not agree on the time period in relation to the comments about the seven churches; but they do agree that the book provides some negative comments about certain churches and some positive comments about the same churches.
     Consequently, the next couple of posts will deal with Jesus’ church as revealed in Revelation. As I read the two chapters, it seems that five of the seven churches are condemned to some extent while two of the seven do not receive any condemnation. The next two posts will first deal with the two churches that are not condemned in the book.
     The first church which receives no condemnation is the second church of the seven listed—the church in Smyrna. The information given is short. It declares:
     “’These are the words of him who is the First and the Last, who died and came to life again. I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich! I know the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.
     He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes will not be hurt at all by the second death.’” Revelation 2: 8b-11 (NIV)
     I am not going to analyze this passage but will point out the following:
1) GOD and JESUS know our (the church and the Spiritually true members of it) afflictions.
2) The church seemed to be in poverty by world standards but it was actually rich.
3) There were individuals, who claimed to believe, who slanderously spoke against the church because they really belonged to Satan.
4) The church should not have fear even though it will suffer by the hands of a disobedient world.
5) The church will suffer persecution but, in the scheme of things, it will only be for a short time.
6) If the church remains faithful, it will receive a crown of life.
7) The church is to hear what the Spirit says to the churches and the church is to overcome. If it does, it will not be hurt by the second death—there is a second death that all must face.      
         

Jesus' bold church (part 4)

For the last three posts, I have been quoting Scripture without comment to demonstrate Jesus’ bold church as recorded in the book of Acts which provides early church history. Today, I will briefly comment on selected portions of the previous nights’ quotes.
“But Peter and John replied, ‘Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God’s sight to obey you rather than God. For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.’” Acts 4: 19-20 (NIV) This is a basic concept for all Christians. If there is a conflict between what the law of man is and the commands of GOD, we, as Christians, must obey the commands of GOD. We also must speak out against the evil being perpetuated by man. We should not; we can not remain silent when man is violating the WILL of GOD. Are we speaking out today against the evil practices of man as denounced by GOD? Of course, to do so according to GOD’S TRUTH, we need to KNOW GOD’S TRUTH.  
“When they heard this, they raised their voices together in prayer to God. ‘Sovereign Lord,’ they said, ‘you made the heaven and the earth and the sea, and everything in them…. Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness.’” Acts 4: 24 and 29 [originally quoted Acts 4: 23-29] (NIV) Christians recognized that GOD created the universe and all that is within. We must do the same and we must not allow man to lie about the creation of the universe. We also need to pray and to pray for boldness to speak and teach GOD’S HOLY WORD to a non-believing world. Boldness is ours through GOD if we want it!    
“After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filed with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.” Acts 4: 31 (NIV) GOD does answer pray! GOD will give us boldness to teach and preach his WORD if we want it and ask in prayer for it.
“But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the doors of the jail and brought them out. ‘Go, stand in the temple courts,’ he said, ‘and tell the people the full message of this new life.’
At daybreak they entered the temple courts, as they had been told, and began to teach the people.” Acts 5: 20-21a [originally quoted Acts 5: 17-21a] (NIV) GOD provides the help his people need to withstand persecution. Christians are commanded to tell the FULL message of JESUS the CHRIST and to tell the TRUE message of JESUS the CHRIST.
     “‘We must obey God rather than men! The God of our fathers raised Jesus from the dead—whom you had killed by hanging him on a tree. God exalted him to his own right hand as Prince and Savior that he might give repentance and forgiveness of sins to Israel. We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.’” Acts 5: 29b-32 [originally quoted Acts 5: 27-32] (NIV) Christians must obey GOD when in conflict with man. JESUS is the only SAVIOR for mankind regardless of  the claims of others; regardless of what other religions claim. The SON of GOD is the only hope for mankind. Mankind needs to repent; mankind must repent to receive forgiveness. All Christians must obey GOD. All Christians who obey GOD have the gift of the HOLY SPIRIT.      
     “The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ.” Acts 5: 41- 42 [originally quoted Acts 5: 40-42] (NIV) To suffer for teaching and preaching GOD’S WORD is something to rejoice about. Regardless of any suffering, it is our responsibility and duty to continually teach that JESUS is the CHRIST and that salvation is only through HIM.
     “Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.” Acts 8: 4 (NIV) No matter where we are; no matter how we got there; we are to continually preach the WORD of GOD to a lost and dying world.  It is a lost and dying world that does not like to be told that it is a lost and dying world.
     “He told them how Saul (also named Paul—my addition) on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus.
     So Saul (known as Paul—my addition) stayed with them and moved about freely in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of Jesus.” Acts 9: 27b-28 [originally quoted Acts 9: 26-28] (NIV) The apostle Paul is a prime example of fearless Christianity as recorded in the book of Acts. Paul had originally persecuted Christians for their faith. Paul watched Stephen be stoned to death and consented to his murder. Paul had turned to JESUS the CHRIST and been baptized into HIS NAME. Paul taught and preached fearlessly about JESUS being the SAVIOR of the world. Paul spoke boldly proclaiming that JESUS is LORD and SAVIOR.
     “’He (JESUS—my addition) commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one whom God appointed as judge of the living and the dead.’” Acts 10: 42 [originally quoted Acts 10: 39-42] (NIV) The apostle Peter, who is speaking in this passage, as well as other Christians was commanded to preach and to testify that JESUS will judge all of mankind.      
“Then Paul and Barnabas answered them boldly: ‘We had to speak the word of God to you (the Jews—my addition) first. Since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles…. The word of the Lord spread through the whole region.” Acts 13: 46 and 49 [originally quoted Acts 46-49] (NIV) Here is recorded another instance of Christians speaking boldly. This passage also tells that men can and do reject the WORD of GOD and by doing so they determine that they are not worthy of eternal life. It is mankind who rejects eternal life. It is their choice. GOD does not force mankind to be obedient to HIM. We have the freedom to reject GOD.  However, that rejection means those who do are also rejecting eternal life. Rejection of eternal life is the ultimate price to pay for rejecting GOD! Speaking boldly will spread the WORD of GOD, it does not guarantee that mankind with accept the WORD of GOD. The responsibility of Christians is to spread the WORD. Mankind has the responsibility to accept or reject that WORD.    
“But the Jews who refused to believe stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers. So Paul and Barnabas spent considerable time there, speaking boldly for the Lord….” Acts 14: 2-3a [originally quoted Acts 14: 1-3a] (NIV) Another example of difficulties cause by those who reject GOD’S WORD. Another example of speaking boldly for GOD regardless of the difficulties present.
“ … But now he commands all people everywhere to repent. For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man (JESUS—my addition) he has appointed. He has given proof of this to all men by raising him (JESUS—my addition) from the dead.’” Acts 17: 30b-31 [originally quoted Acts 17: 30-31] (NIV) All mankind is commanded to repent. All mankind will be judged by JESUS and judged justly by JESUS. The raising of JESUS from the dead is GODLY proof of the TRUTH that JESUS is the CHRIST.
“He (Apollos—my addition) began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately.
     When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. On arriving, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed. For he vigorously refuted the Jews in public debate, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ.” Acts 18: 26-28 [originally quoted Acts 18: 24-28 (NIV) Another example of a Christian boldly teaching about JESUS and a Christian using the Scriptures to prove that JESUS is the CHRIST. The Scriptures as the WORD of GOD revealed to man is our source for knowing GOD and JESUS the CHRIST.  
     “Paul entered the synagogue and spoke boldly there for three months, arguing persuasively about the kingdom of God…. This went on for two years, so that all the Jews and Greeks who lived in the province of Asia heard the word of the Lord.” Acts 19: 8 and 10 [originally quoted Acts 19: 8-10] (NIV) By boldly proclaiming the WORD of GOD over time the WORD of GOD will spread. GOD uses Christians to spread the WORD. Mankind does not receive the WORD by osmosis. The WORD must be spread by Christians who are obediently following GOD.
     “In this way the word of the Lord spread widely and grew in power.” Acts 19: 20 (NIV) The WORD of GOD spreads through Christians boldly proclaiming the WORD of GOD.
     “You know that I have not hesitated to preach anything that would be helpful to you but have taught you publicly and from house to house. I have declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus.” Acts 20: 20- 21 [originally quoted Acts 20: 17-21] (NIV) Paul declares that he boldly taught the WORD, taught it individually from house to house over a period of time, and taught once again that repentance is necessary as well as faith in JESUS.
     “Therefore, I declare to you today that I am innocent of the blood of all men. For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God.’” Acts 20: 26-27 [originally quoted Acts 20: 25-27] (NIV) When Christians boldly proclaim the whole WILL of GOD they have fulfilled their responsibility to GOD in this area. Christians have the responsibility to proclaim the WORD. Christians can not hear the WORD for others. Christians can not have faith for others. Christians can not repent for others. Christians can not confess that JESUS is LORD and SAVIOR for others. Christians can not be baptized into CHRIST for others.  Christians can not be obedient to GOD’S WILL for others. The responsibility of Christians is to proclaim GOD’S WORD to a sinful world. Each person must make his own choice after that.      
     “’I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. So be on your guard!’”
     “’Now I commit you to God and to the word of his grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.’” Acts 20: 29-30 and 32 [originally quoted Acts 20: 29-32 (NIV) Unfortunately, Satan does not rest even if we do. There will always be those who claim to be Christian who will distort GOD’S TRUTH and lie trying to persuade people to turn from GOD and not accept HIS HOLY TRUTH. Christians must be ever on guard against the deceitfulness of  Satan and help unbelievers know the difference between GOD’S TRUTH and the lies and distortions of the world. Christians must teach the TRUTH as given in GOD’S WORD.
     “I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.’ When he would not be dissuaded, we gave up and said, ‘The Lord’s will be done.’” Acts 21: 13b-14 [originally quoted Acts 21: 12-14] (NIV) Christians must be ready and willing to die, if necessary, to teach and proclaim GOD’S WORD.
     “Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ.” Acts 28: 31 [originally quoted Acts 28: 30-31] (NIV) The very last sentence in the book of Acts declares that the WORD of GOD was being boldly taught and preached—teaching about the LORD JESSUS the CHRIST! From the beginning to the end of the book of Acts, the TRUTH was boldly proclaimed by Christians willing to suffer and die to help others hear that TRUTH.
     “If they persecuted me (JESUS—my addition), they will persecute you (the apostles) also. John 15: 20b [originally quoted John 15: 18-25] (NIV) Not every thing JESUS told the apostles apply to other Christians. This I believe does. Christians who proclaim GOD’S WORD can expect to be persecuted by an unbelieving world. However, that persecution is worth the effort. Others will have an opportunity to be saved based upon our efforts to spread GOD’S WORD. Our responsibilities are great. The gift of eternal life makes all efforts worth while. GOD does not want “armchair” Christians. We have a responsibility to teach and preach HIS TRUTH. We need to boldly proclaim that JESUS is LORD just as the early Christians of Acts did.    
     The apostle Paul in II Corinthians 11: 23-28 wrote about his own experiences teaching and preaching the WORD of GOD. This passage tells of all the suffering he had to endure while teaching and proclaiming the WORD of GOD. He suffered greatly. However, he experienced great results also as his efforts as well as the efforts of other obedient Christians spread Christianity through the world. We still have that responsibility today. We must boldly teach and proclaim GOD’S WORD to a lost world who will repay us for our love with their persecutions. So be it! BOLDLY PROCLAIM the WORD of GOD!!!        

Jesus' bold church (part 3)

Teaching and preaching the WORD of GOD wasn’t without cost to the early Christians. JESUS promised the apostles persecution for teaching the TRUTH. “’If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. Remember the words I spoke to you: ‘No servant is greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also. They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the One who sent me. If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not be guilty of sin. Now, however, they have no excuse for their sin. He who hates me hates my Father as well. If I had not done among them what no one else did, they would not be guilty of sin. But now they have seen these miracles, and yet they have hated both me and my Father. But this is to fulfill what is written in their law: ‘They hated me without reason.’” John 15: 18-25 (NIV)
As the early church taught and preached that JESUS was the CHRIST, the SON of GOD; they were persecuted. They were beaten, they were put in prison, they were killed. Stephen was the first Christian whose death by the hands of the world was recorded in Acts. A few chapters later, the apostle James, the brother of the apostle John, was murdered.  
The apostle Paul in II Corinthians 11: 23-28 wrote the following about his own experiences teaching and preaching the WORD of GOD. “Are they servants of Christ? (I am out of my mind to talk like this.) I am more. I have worked much harder, been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my own countrymen, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false brothers. I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked. Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches.”
Why did Paul and other Christians of the early church endure such hardships and persecution? Have Christians today compromised our boldness to proclaim GOD’S TRUTH to better fit in with the world? Have Christians today compromised our boldness to proclaim GOD’S TRUTH to avoid persecution? Are we following the example given by the early church of boldly teaching and proclaiming all of GOD’S TRUTH? Are we still JESUS’ bold church?
Have we “watered down” the message by rationalizing that we don’t want to offend anyone? Have we “watered down” the message to avoid persecution? Have we “watered down” the message to increase our numbers on the “roll” but not to increase the number of obedient Christians? Are we still JESUS’ bold church?      

Jesus' bold church (part 2)

I know. As was pointed out, I began this year with the same post that I used to end last year. I had not planned on doing it in that manner. Sometime in late December I decided to do more than the one post on Jesus’ bold church. Since my last post for 2006 was on December 16, I thought I’d better repeat that one for some continuity. This post tonight is, of course, Jesus’ bold church (part 2).      
     Yesterday’s post was taken from Acts chapters 4 and 5. It gives examples of boldly proclaiming the WORD of GOD and quotes Scripture where the church prayed for boldness and where the church was described as acting boldly. Tonight, I will continue with selected passages. I would encourage a complete study of Acts. The book is filled with examples of Christians boldly proclaiming the WORD of GOD although facing great personal hardships. Proclaiming the WORD of GOD to a spiritually lost world is not for the timid. But then, Christians are not to be timid! We are to boldly proclaim the WORD of GOD. And why wouldn’t we. We have the greatest message possible. Spiritual salvation through the death, burial, and resurrection of the SON of GOD—JESUS the CHRIST. The selected passages.
     “Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.” Acts 8: 4 (NIV)
     “When he (the apostle Paul—my addition) came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul (also named Paul—my addition) on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus.
     So Saul (known as Paul—my addition) stayed with them and moved about freely in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of Jesus.” Acts 9: 26-28 (NIV)
     “’We (the apostle Peter is speaking—my addition) are witnesses of everything he (JESUS, the SON of GOD—my addition) did in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They killed him by hanging him on a tree, but God raised him from the dead on the third day and caused him to be seen. He was not seen by all the people, but by witnesses whom God had already chosen—by us who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one whom God appointed as judge of the living and the dead.’” Acts 10: 39-42 (NIV)
     “Then Paul and Barnabas answered them boldly: ‘We had to speak the word of God to you (the Jews—my addition) first. Since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles. For this is what the Lord has commanded us: ‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’
     When the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and honored the word of the Lord; and all who were appointed for eternal life believed.
     The word of the Lord spread through the whole region.” Acts 13: 46-49
     “At Iconium Paul and Barnabas went as usual into the Jewish synagogue. There they spoke so effectively that a great number of Jew and Gentiles believed. But the Jews who refused to believe stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers. So Paul and Barnabas spent considerable time there, speaking boldly for the Lord….” Acts 14:1-3a (NIV)
     “’In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man (JESUS—my addition) he has appointed. He has given proof of this to all men by raising him (JESUS—my addition) from the dead.’” Acts 17: 30-31 (NIV)
     “Meanwhile a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was a learned man, with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures (Old Testament Scriptures—my addition). He had been instructed in the way of the Lord, and he spoke with great fervor and taught about Jesus accurately, though he knew only the baptism of John. He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately.
     When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. On arriving, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed. For he vigorously refuted the Jews in public debate, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ.” Acts 18: 24-28 (NIV)
     Paul entered the synagogue and spoke boldly there for three months, arguing persuasively about the kingdom of God. But some of them became obstinate; they refused to believe and publicly maligned the Way (a term used to identify early Christians and Christianity—my addition). So Paul left them. He took the disciples with him and had discussions daily in the lecture hall of Tyrannus. This went on for two years, so that all the Jews and Greeks who lived in the province of Asia heard the word of the Lord.” Acts 19: 8-10 (NIV)
     “In this way the word of the Lord spread widely and grew in power.” Acts 19: 20 (NIV)        
     “From Miletus, Paul sent to Ephesus for the leaders of the church. When they arrived, he said to them: ‘You know how I lived the whole time I was with you, from the first day I came into the province of Asia. I served the Lord with great humility and with tears, although I was severely tested by the plots of the Jews. You know that I have not hesitated to preach anything that would be helpful to you but have taught you publicly and from house to house. I have declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus.” Acts 20: 17-21 (NIV)
     “’Now I (the apostle Paul—my addition) know that none of you among whom I have gone about preaching the kingdom will ever see me again. Therefore, I declare to you today that I am innocent of the blood of all men. For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God.’” Acts 20:25-27 (NIV)
     “’I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. So be on your guard! Remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears.
     Now I commit you to God and to the word of his grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.’” Acts 20: 29-32 (NIV)
     “When we heard this, we and the people there pleaded with Paul not to go up to Jerusalem. Then Paul answered, ‘Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.’ When he would not be dissuaded, we gave up and said, ‘The Lord’s will be done.’” Acts 21: 12-14 (NIV)
     “For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ.” Acts 28: 30-31 (NIV) The very last sentence in the book of Acts declares that the WORD of GOD was being boldly taught and preached—teaching about the LORD JESSUS the CHRIST!  
Is the church boldly proclaiming today that JESUS is LORD and that salvation can come through no one except the SOVEREIGN LORD JESUS?

Jesus' bold church

     “But Peter and John replied, ‘Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God’s sight to obey you rather than God. For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.’” Acts 4: 19-20 (NIV)
“On their release, Peter and John went back to their own people and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said to them. When they heard this, they raised their voices together in prayer to God. ‘Sovereign Lord,’ they said, ‘you made the heaven and the earth and the sea, and everything in them. You spoke by the Holy Spirit through the mouth of your servant, our father David: ‘Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together against the Lord and against his Anointed One.’ Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness.’” Acts 4: 23-29 (NIV)
“After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filed with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.” Acts 4: 31 (NIV)
“Then the high priest and all his associates, who were members of the party of the Sadducees, were filled with jealousy. They arrested the apostles and put them in the public jail. But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the doors of the jail and brought them out. ‘Go, stand in the temple courts,’ he said, ‘and tell the people the full message of this new life.’
At daybreak they entered the temple courts, as they had been told, and began to teach the people.” Acts 5: 17-21a (NIV)
“Having brought the apostles, they made them appear before the Sanhedrin to be questioned by the high priest. ‘We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name,’ he said. ‘Yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to make us guilty of this man’s blood.’
Peter and the other apostles replied: ‘We must obey God rather than men! The God of our fathers raised Jesus from the dead—whom you had killed by hanging him on a tree. God exalted him to his own right hand as Prince and Savior that he might give repentance and forgiveness of sins to Israel. We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.’” Acts 5: 27-32 (NIV)
“His speech persuaded them. They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.
The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ.” Acts 5:40-42 (NIV)  
       Is the church boldly proclaiming today that JESUS is LORD and that salvation can come through no one except the SOVEREIGN LORD JESUS?