A sermon preached Sunday, July 25, 2010 at Hebron Baptist Church, Denham Springs, Louisiana by Pastor Joe Alain.
Scripture Reading: Mark 12:18-27
Two times Jesus told the Sadducees that they were in error (vv.24, 27). Not everything that is taught or believed is true. We live in a world where everyone is free to believe what they want, but that does not mean that every belief is correct or that every belief system is on equal footing. We also live in a day and time where we fear saying some doctrine (teaching) is wrong, but Jesus didn’t have a problem calling out error.
The Sadducees were upstanding people, they were leaders in the community, they were respected and religious but Jesus said that they were flat out wrong! Because of their misinterpretation of Scripture they denied the very doctrine that is essential to our salvation – the doctrine of the resurrection. For the importance of the resurrection, see 1 Cor. 15:1-4; Rom. 4:25; 10:9; 1 Pe. 1:3. Without the resurrection there is no Gospel and without the Gospel there is no salvation. When there is ignorance of the word of God and a denial of His power, there is error. Truth comes to us when we rightly interpret Scripture and we trust in the power of the living God.
Why does it matter what I believe? It matters because you were placed here to bring glory to God and to know what that means, you have to know what he desires and requires of you. It matters not only to the kind of life you’re living on earth now, but it matters because eternity is too long to be wrong. So my desire is to encourage you from this message to be a diligent student of Scripture, because it does matter. The truth about God and us is revealed in the Scriptures and only discovered when we correctly interpret God’s Word and trust in His power.
18 – “Then the Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, came to him with a question.” Here we are introduced to the Sadducees, a sect of Judaism. The Sadducees were the aristocratic class of priestly families from whom the high priest was chosen. There are two things we need to know about the Sadducees to understand this passage. First, The Sadducees only held as authoritative the written law contained in the first five books in the Old Testament. They did not hold as authoritative the Prophets or the Writings, essentially the rest of the OT. They also rejected the authority of the Oral Law.
The other important characteristic, evident from the text, is that they denied the doctrine of the resurrection which the Pharisees and others affirmed (See Acts 23:8). This denial of the resurrection naturally grew out of their denial of the authority of much of the OT Scripture because none of the few references to the resurrection in the OT are in the Pentateuch, the first five books.
This question of the Sadducees was another test, the third such one by Jesus’ adversaries. Jesus answers their test question by correctly interpreting the Scripture that they do believe (Deut. 25:5-6) in light of what God says in another text in the Pentateuch or the Torah, Exodus 3:6. So by comparing Scriptures and looking at the context of a passage, Jesus is practicing good interpretation. The type of question that the Sadducees asked is called in Jewish tradition a “vulgarity,” a question that is contemptuous of the person addressed. So actually the Sadducees are mocking Jesus and the entire doctrine of the resurrection.
The Question: 19-23 – [19] “‘Teacher,’ they said, ‘Moses wrote for us that if a man’s brother dies and leaves a wife but no children, the man must marry the widow and have children for his brother. [20] Now there were seven brothers. The first one married and died without leaving any children. [21] The second one married the widow, but he also died, leaving no child. It was the same with the third. [22] In fact, none of the seven left any children. Last of all, the woman died too. [23] At the resurrection whose wife will she be, since the seven were married to her?’”
What’s interesting about this question is that they do not even believe in the resurrection, yet the question is really about the resurrection (see v.24). In this passage, we understand a little about how the Sadducees viewed life. They believed that life exists only human personality. What do we mean? The word for “have children” in verse 19 literally means “to raise up” and is a form of the word resurrection.
The Mosaic law of Levirate marriage presupposes that the only persistence of personality after death is in and through the lives of one’s offspring. This is why it was so important that children be conceived. Everything was carried on through your offspring. The question, “whose wife will she be?” is absurd. The entire encounter is designed to place Jesus in a ridiculous spot and to make the doctrine of the resurrection look ridiculous.
24 – “Jesus replied, ‘Are you not in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God.’” This seems to be the key verse or key thesis which Jesus then fills in the details in what follows.
Jesus tells the Sadducees that their entire question and thinking is in error for two reasons:
(1) They “do not know the Scriptures”
Not that they have not completely familiarized themselves with the Scriptures or that they cannot recall the Scriptures. But they have used the Scriptures as prooftexts for their beliefs. They can cite Scripture but they do not interpret it accurately as God intends. Is this not a problem today? People may be able to cite Scripture, they’ve grown up with Scripture, yet they do not correctly interpret Scripture nor do they apply it to their lives. Not knowing the Scriptures they are in error.
(2) They do not know “the power of God”
The Sadducees did not believe in the supernatural power of God. If God is able to heal, to restore sight, to cleanse the lepers, it’s not hard to also believe that God is able to resurrect the dead. This passage reveals how small their concept of God is. They only see God as the God of their dead ancestors, but Jesus tells them that God is not the God of the dead, he is the God of the living (v.27). See Romans 11:33 as Paul describes the mystery of knowing God.
Ignorance of God’s Word
25 – “When the dead rise, they will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven.” Notice how Jesus assumes the dead are going to rise. Jesus says two things about the resurrected state of believers.
(1) At the resurrection, the dead will not be concerned about marrying or being given in marriage. Augustine, “Marriages are on account of children; children on account of succession; succession on account of death. But in heaven, as there is no death, neither is there any marriage.”
(2) The resurrected dead will be “Like the angels in heaven.” What do we know about the angels? We won’t have any wings as far as I can tell. We won’t sit around and play our harps for eternity. That would not be heaven for many of us! It’s important to see that Jesus’ use of this language is figurative language. We will be “like the angels” in the sense that angels apparently are immortal. The Sadducees took literally the language about resurrection, made the understanding of it look absurd, and so dismissed resurrection as untrue. To think only literally about the resurrection is to be like the Sadducees; quite mistaken, for like them, it is to limit the power of God to conditions such as we know them on earth. In other words, when it comes to the afterlife, don’t limit what God is going to do! Speculation about the age of the resurrected or the conditions of life after death is only speculation. Instead of information about the afterlife, the Lord offers a promise, more life with God.
Ignorant of God’s Power
26-27 – “Now about the dead rising – have you not read in the book of Moses, in the account of the bush, how God said to him, ‘I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? He is not the God of the dead, but of the living. You are badly mistaken.’” Jesus calls them to examine their own Scripture in Exodus 3:6, a passage they would have held as authoritative. This text teaches us that God is the God of the living not the dead. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob obviously died; yet, by the power and word of God they are still alive (“I am” present tense). So all who belong to God, though they die, will live by the power of the word, the power of God the “I am.” John 12:25-26 speaks to this truth. “Jesus said to her [Martha], ‘I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?’”
On one level this story speaks to the importance of how we interpret God’s Word.
I. Misinterpretation of Scripture: The Way which Leads to Error
(1) A lack of belief will cause us to misinterpret the Word of God. They lacked the reverence and respect for the source of the Scriptures: that is, God Himself. They seem to doubt that God will bring every act to judgement or that there are eternal consequences for disobeying Him. A personal commitment to God is essential for understanding Scripture. This was the problem that the Sadducees had.
(2) There was familiarity with God’s word but they lacked depth of understanding. Superficial understanding leads to superficial living.
(3) When we use the Bible to support our own human ideas and opinions. As long as we look at the text of Scripture from a human standpoint, we will constantly judge God’s word by our standards rather than placing ourselves underneath the text. The Sadducees are viewing the Bible from their human standpoint, through hearts of depravity and doubt. The Sadducees used Scripture as a prooftext to what they already believed. As long as you view Scripture in this way, you are always going to end up at the wrong destination.
II. Correct Interpretation of Scripture: The Way which Lead to Truth
Why is this important? Because there are consequences to misinterpreting God’s Word. To do so might mean we miss out on God and what He desires and requires of us. How do you determine what is right and what is wrong? Truth from error? We know from correctly interpreting the Scriptures.
(1) We need to know God, the author of the Bible. There must be a personal commitment to the Lord.
(2) We need to understand a passage of Scripture in light of all of God’s revelation.
(3) We need to approach the Scripture as God’s inspired Word (2 Tim. 3:16).
(4) We need to submit our understanding of Scripture to God’s authority.
(5) We need to approach Scripture from the standpoint of obeying what we hear.
Summary
Jesus’ response affirms the reality of the resurrection in the face of skepticism and doubt. Even though we do not know all of the details of the resurrection, we know that it will be eternal life with God. A lack of knowledge concerning God’s Word leads to secularism, skepticism and a loss of hope. When the Word loses its position of priority in our lives and the life of the church, we lose that which anchors us in the Lord and we ultimately lose hope.
The thought expressed in verse 24 comes to us as a question today. “How does the Bible function in the church and in our lives?” The community of faith and each member of it ought to know the Scriptures. This is especially true in light of the widespread biblical illiteracy in our time. Furthermore, we must move to a place of maturity in our understanding and application of Scripture. We must stop using the Bible to prove our points and promote our programs, as the Sadducees did.
Jesus’ response serves to challenge us to a vision beyond our own. He opens the possibility of solutions quite other than we had dreamed. What looks improbable and even impossible with us is possible with God!
For His Glory!
Pastor Joe
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Monday, July 19, 2010
An Overview of Calvinism
A presentation delivered July 18, 2010 at Hebron Baptist Church,
Denham Springs, Louisiana by Pastor Joe Alain.
READ THIS FIRST – IMPORTANT!!!
What follows is most of the text from my presentation last Sunday evening. I plan to pick up our discussion where we left off on Sunday, August 1st at 6:00 p.m. Let me just preface my thoughts and our discussions with a few statements.
1. Keep in mind that there are many fine Christians including Baptists on both sides of the issues. Furthermore, at Hebron you will discover people that have strong views leaning toward Calvinism and equally people with strong views that might be characterized as leaning toward Arminianism. Our differences do not have to divide us. Many times we will find ourselves in the middle of the discussion. After all, who can fully comprehend the mystery of the sovereignty of God and man’s freewill? Remember, believers have been discussing these issues for thousands of years and we are not likely to have the last word on the subject.
2. I would not call myself a Calvinist; however, it’s not because I don’t find myself in agreement with many Calvinistic teachings, I just do not prefer to be placed in one theological camp. I find myself stuck in the middle of the mystery of God’s sovereignty and our freewill. Maybe I’m a “Calminian.” I think that most Baptists today will find themselves agreeing with Calvinism at points and probably disagreeing with Calvinists at other points. Again, this need not be a cause for division among believers. Our theological tent at Hebron is big enough for all of us.
3. In dealing with the entire subject we need to keep an open mind and exercise humility toward one another. My prayer and hope is that our discussions will be instructive, edifying and will help us clarify what we do believe concerning our “great salvation” (Heb. 2:3).
Introduction
There has been a lively debate over the last few years concerning the relationship between divine sovereignty and human responsibility. Many sincere students of Scripture find themselves on opposing sides. Just what is Calvinism? Calvinism grew out of the Reformation of the 16th Century and its emphasis on the great solas: Scripture alone, Christ alone, grace alone, faith alone, for the glory of God alone. John Calvin (1509-64) was a pastor and an outstanding theologian and biblical scholar who placed a great emphasis on the teachings of Paul and the writings of Augustine (354-430). Calvin emphasized the sovereignty of God, the sinfulness of man, and the necessity of grace for salvation.
Later in the 17th century, followers of Calvin would systematize his theology and go beyond what Calvin himself taught. This system would ultimately come down to us through the now famous acrostic TULIP. Throughout Baptist history, some have embraced many of these five points of doctrine while others have rejected most of them. Southern Baptists have always been diverse; however, most Southern Baptists would fall somewhere in between the extremes. The issue of Calvinism itself is not addressed in the Baptist Faith and Message, yet you can no doubt see similarities at some points with Calvinism. This is not surprising as Baptists have always been people of the Book and the Bible definitely does address issues like divine sovereignty and
human sinfulness.
A Closer Look at the TULIP
Total Depravity
Total depravity means that man is born with a sin nature and an inclination toward sin. Every aspect of his being is infected with sin and he cannot do anything to save himself. Furthermore, he cannot even move toward God unless God first draws him to do so. God’s enabling grace allows us to move towards Him. Most Baptists would agree at least in part that man is depraved. We draw on Scriptures such as Romans 3:9-20 and Ephesians 2:1-3 for support of our view.
Where many Southern Baptists might part company with the Calvinists is that some Calvinists believe that a person is so dead in their sins and depraved that they have to be born again or regenerated before they can respond to God. The thinking here is that if you can repent and have faith, then you are in effect contributing to your salvation. Most believe that people cannot save themselves; however, most Southern Baptist do not interpret the texts that deal with depravity to mean that people cannot repent and have faith in Christ. Repentance and faith do not contribute to salvation; they are the way one who is enslaved by sin receives the salvation from sin that God has provided.
Baptist Faith & Message: “By his free choice man sinned against God and brought sin into the human race. Through the temptation of Satan man transgressed the command of God, and fell from his original innocence whereby his posterity inherit a nature and an environment inclined toward sin.” (10)
Unconditional Election
God in His grace and mercy has chosen certain persons for salvation. This decision is not based on anything in the person, any human merit, but is based in the goodness and providence of God’s own will and purposes. The question arises, “Does this destroy the possibility of man exercising his free will and responsibility?” Some would say no but there is an admitted tension present here.
Most Baptist believe that God chooses to save those who chose to put their faith in Christ. The elect are those who are “in Christ.” Most Baptists have rejected a strong Calvinistic view of election because of the following cherished beliefs:
1. The belief that God loves everyone in the world.
2. The belief that God wants everyone to be saved.
3. The believe that every person who hears the Gospel can put his or her trust in the Lord and be saved.
4. The belief that Christians make it possible for people to be saved by preaching the Gospel to them.
Baptist Faith & Message: “Election . . . is consistent with the free agency of man.” (12)
Limited Atonement
Many Calvinists prefer the term “Particular Redemption” instead. The idea here is that the atoning work of Christ applies only to those who are the elected. So, the work of Jesus in His atonement would be limited to the elect. The other view is that of a “General Atonement.” It seems that there is biblical support for both. 1 Corinthians 15:3 says “Christ died for our sins” which can be understood in a limited sense. John wrote that Christ “is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world” (1 Jn. 2:2) which supports general atonement. Limited atonement fits nicely with the Calvinistic understanding of election because there seems to be no point in Christ dying for people who are predestined for judgement.
All Bible believers limit the atonement in some respects. To not do so would lead to universalism, the view that eventually all people will be saved. Most Baptists would say that the atonement is limited in its application, but not in its provision. In other words, in his death on the cross Jesus Christ died for the sins of the world (Jn. 3:16; 1 Tim. 2:4-6; 4:10; 2 Pe. 2:1; 1 Jn. 2:1-2; 4:9-10) making universal provision. However, the application is limited to those who receive the free gift of salvation offered to them by their personal faith in Christ.
Irresistible Grace
Many Calvinists prefer the term “effectual calling” instead. This teaching says that those who are predestined to be saved are called to salvation (Rom. 8:30) effectually or effectively. They are not forced to come but are set free to come and the do so willingly.
While most Southern Baptists would affirm the fact that God calls and draws us to salvation, most would allow for a person to resist God and not be saved. They would still believe that God is sovereign; however, he has given us the free will to respond to him or not respond to him. He respects our human decision. This is the way that he created us and how He relates to us.
Baptist Faith & Message: “He [i.e., the Holy Spirit] calls men to the Savior, and effects regeneration.” (9)
Perseverance of the Saints
Those God saves, He protects and preserves in their salvation. Baptists have often used the terminology of “eternal security” or “once saved, always saved.” This may be the one point in Calvinism that all Baptists affirm. This doesn’t mean that people are free to live any kind of way that they chose. Instead, because of God’s grace, we are grieved by sin and we want to pursue the God who keeps us secure in His hands (Jn. 10:27-29). Scriptures abound that teach the eternal security of the believer. This teaching is biblical, theological, and logical.
Baptist Faith & Message: “All true believers endure to the end. Those whom God has accepted in Christ and sanctified by His Spirit, will never fall away from the state of grace, but shall persevere to the end.”
Conclusion
All of these five doctrines, sometimes referred to “The Doctrines of Grace,” relate to our understanding about salvation. Because of the way that Calvinism is able to logically systematize Christianity, Calvinism is an attractive theological system to many. Some opponents cite that Calvinism is anti-missionary which is only true in extreme instances – “hyper Calvinism.” There have been many Calvinists in our past who were mission’s-minded and evangelistic Baptists including men like William Carey, Andrew Fuller, Luther Rice, Adoniram Judson, and Charles Spurgeon. Several of our current seminary presidents hold to Calvinistic views including Al Mohler and Danny Akin.
Although not Baptists, George Whitefield and Jonathan Edwards were strong Calvinists who led in the First Great Awakening. Other popular preachers and pastors (non-Baptists) today are John Piper, John MacArthur and R.C. Sproul.
My next article will include some thoughts that I hope will strike a biblical balance on the subject, some things that I believe we can all agree on. Finally, I will share what I believe are the positive contributions of Calvinism today and some areas of caution in embracing any one theological system.
For His Glory!
Pastor Joe
Denham Springs, Louisiana by Pastor Joe Alain.
READ THIS FIRST – IMPORTANT!!!
What follows is most of the text from my presentation last Sunday evening. I plan to pick up our discussion where we left off on Sunday, August 1st at 6:00 p.m. Let me just preface my thoughts and our discussions with a few statements.
1. Keep in mind that there are many fine Christians including Baptists on both sides of the issues. Furthermore, at Hebron you will discover people that have strong views leaning toward Calvinism and equally people with strong views that might be characterized as leaning toward Arminianism. Our differences do not have to divide us. Many times we will find ourselves in the middle of the discussion. After all, who can fully comprehend the mystery of the sovereignty of God and man’s freewill? Remember, believers have been discussing these issues for thousands of years and we are not likely to have the last word on the subject.
2. I would not call myself a Calvinist; however, it’s not because I don’t find myself in agreement with many Calvinistic teachings, I just do not prefer to be placed in one theological camp. I find myself stuck in the middle of the mystery of God’s sovereignty and our freewill. Maybe I’m a “Calminian.” I think that most Baptists today will find themselves agreeing with Calvinism at points and probably disagreeing with Calvinists at other points. Again, this need not be a cause for division among believers. Our theological tent at Hebron is big enough for all of us.
3. In dealing with the entire subject we need to keep an open mind and exercise humility toward one another. My prayer and hope is that our discussions will be instructive, edifying and will help us clarify what we do believe concerning our “great salvation” (Heb. 2:3).
Introduction
There has been a lively debate over the last few years concerning the relationship between divine sovereignty and human responsibility. Many sincere students of Scripture find themselves on opposing sides. Just what is Calvinism? Calvinism grew out of the Reformation of the 16th Century and its emphasis on the great solas: Scripture alone, Christ alone, grace alone, faith alone, for the glory of God alone. John Calvin (1509-64) was a pastor and an outstanding theologian and biblical scholar who placed a great emphasis on the teachings of Paul and the writings of Augustine (354-430). Calvin emphasized the sovereignty of God, the sinfulness of man, and the necessity of grace for salvation.
Later in the 17th century, followers of Calvin would systematize his theology and go beyond what Calvin himself taught. This system would ultimately come down to us through the now famous acrostic TULIP. Throughout Baptist history, some have embraced many of these five points of doctrine while others have rejected most of them. Southern Baptists have always been diverse; however, most Southern Baptists would fall somewhere in between the extremes. The issue of Calvinism itself is not addressed in the Baptist Faith and Message, yet you can no doubt see similarities at some points with Calvinism. This is not surprising as Baptists have always been people of the Book and the Bible definitely does address issues like divine sovereignty and
human sinfulness.
A Closer Look at the TULIP
Total Depravity
Total depravity means that man is born with a sin nature and an inclination toward sin. Every aspect of his being is infected with sin and he cannot do anything to save himself. Furthermore, he cannot even move toward God unless God first draws him to do so. God’s enabling grace allows us to move towards Him. Most Baptists would agree at least in part that man is depraved. We draw on Scriptures such as Romans 3:9-20 and Ephesians 2:1-3 for support of our view.
Where many Southern Baptists might part company with the Calvinists is that some Calvinists believe that a person is so dead in their sins and depraved that they have to be born again or regenerated before they can respond to God. The thinking here is that if you can repent and have faith, then you are in effect contributing to your salvation. Most believe that people cannot save themselves; however, most Southern Baptist do not interpret the texts that deal with depravity to mean that people cannot repent and have faith in Christ. Repentance and faith do not contribute to salvation; they are the way one who is enslaved by sin receives the salvation from sin that God has provided.
Baptist Faith & Message: “By his free choice man sinned against God and brought sin into the human race. Through the temptation of Satan man transgressed the command of God, and fell from his original innocence whereby his posterity inherit a nature and an environment inclined toward sin.” (10)
Unconditional Election
God in His grace and mercy has chosen certain persons for salvation. This decision is not based on anything in the person, any human merit, but is based in the goodness and providence of God’s own will and purposes. The question arises, “Does this destroy the possibility of man exercising his free will and responsibility?” Some would say no but there is an admitted tension present here.
Most Baptist believe that God chooses to save those who chose to put their faith in Christ. The elect are those who are “in Christ.” Most Baptists have rejected a strong Calvinistic view of election because of the following cherished beliefs:
1. The belief that God loves everyone in the world.
2. The belief that God wants everyone to be saved.
3. The believe that every person who hears the Gospel can put his or her trust in the Lord and be saved.
4. The belief that Christians make it possible for people to be saved by preaching the Gospel to them.
Baptist Faith & Message: “Election . . . is consistent with the free agency of man.” (12)
Limited Atonement
Many Calvinists prefer the term “Particular Redemption” instead. The idea here is that the atoning work of Christ applies only to those who are the elected. So, the work of Jesus in His atonement would be limited to the elect. The other view is that of a “General Atonement.” It seems that there is biblical support for both. 1 Corinthians 15:3 says “Christ died for our sins” which can be understood in a limited sense. John wrote that Christ “is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world” (1 Jn. 2:2) which supports general atonement. Limited atonement fits nicely with the Calvinistic understanding of election because there seems to be no point in Christ dying for people who are predestined for judgement.
All Bible believers limit the atonement in some respects. To not do so would lead to universalism, the view that eventually all people will be saved. Most Baptists would say that the atonement is limited in its application, but not in its provision. In other words, in his death on the cross Jesus Christ died for the sins of the world (Jn. 3:16; 1 Tim. 2:4-6; 4:10; 2 Pe. 2:1; 1 Jn. 2:1-2; 4:9-10) making universal provision. However, the application is limited to those who receive the free gift of salvation offered to them by their personal faith in Christ.
Irresistible Grace
Many Calvinists prefer the term “effectual calling” instead. This teaching says that those who are predestined to be saved are called to salvation (Rom. 8:30) effectually or effectively. They are not forced to come but are set free to come and the do so willingly.
While most Southern Baptists would affirm the fact that God calls and draws us to salvation, most would allow for a person to resist God and not be saved. They would still believe that God is sovereign; however, he has given us the free will to respond to him or not respond to him. He respects our human decision. This is the way that he created us and how He relates to us.
Baptist Faith & Message: “He [i.e., the Holy Spirit] calls men to the Savior, and effects regeneration.” (9)
Perseverance of the Saints
Those God saves, He protects and preserves in their salvation. Baptists have often used the terminology of “eternal security” or “once saved, always saved.” This may be the one point in Calvinism that all Baptists affirm. This doesn’t mean that people are free to live any kind of way that they chose. Instead, because of God’s grace, we are grieved by sin and we want to pursue the God who keeps us secure in His hands (Jn. 10:27-29). Scriptures abound that teach the eternal security of the believer. This teaching is biblical, theological, and logical.
Baptist Faith & Message: “All true believers endure to the end. Those whom God has accepted in Christ and sanctified by His Spirit, will never fall away from the state of grace, but shall persevere to the end.”
Conclusion
All of these five doctrines, sometimes referred to “The Doctrines of Grace,” relate to our understanding about salvation. Because of the way that Calvinism is able to logically systematize Christianity, Calvinism is an attractive theological system to many. Some opponents cite that Calvinism is anti-missionary which is only true in extreme instances – “hyper Calvinism.” There have been many Calvinists in our past who were mission’s-minded and evangelistic Baptists including men like William Carey, Andrew Fuller, Luther Rice, Adoniram Judson, and Charles Spurgeon. Several of our current seminary presidents hold to Calvinistic views including Al Mohler and Danny Akin.
Although not Baptists, George Whitefield and Jonathan Edwards were strong Calvinists who led in the First Great Awakening. Other popular preachers and pastors (non-Baptists) today are John Piper, John MacArthur and R.C. Sproul.
My next article will include some thoughts that I hope will strike a biblical balance on the subject, some things that I believe we can all agree on. Finally, I will share what I believe are the positive contributions of Calvinism today and some areas of caution in embracing any one theological system.
For His Glory!
Pastor Joe
On the Road to Greatness (Mark 10:32-45)
A Sermon Preached Sunday, July 18, 2010 at Hebron Baptist Church, Denham Springs, Louisiana by Pastor Joe Alain.
Scripture Reading: Mark 10:32-45
As a boy growing up in Northern Virginia, Steve Royster was confronted with a small but persistent mystery – a mystery that presented itself every time he used the phone. “Everyone always knew when I was calling just by the sound of my voice,” Royster says, “while I had no earthly idea who was on the phone when they called.” Royster has phonagnosia – or voice blindness – a rare and very strange disorder. Like everyone else, phonagnosics can tell from the sound of your voice if you’re male or female, young or old, upset or happy. They just have no idea of who you are. Apparently, the part of the brain that makes sense of whether or not the voice they are hearing has “personal relevance” is damaged.
1. The Desire for Greatness (10:35-41)
Based on the request that the disciples made of Jesus, it’s obvious that the disciples were hearing Jesus’ voice, but not recognizing the “personal relevance” of what He was really saying. There are some things that stand out about the disciples from this passage. We will look at three of them.
(1) The Disciples Were Dull of Hearing
It wasn’t that they did not know who Jesus was or that Jesus was not being clear, He was (see vv.32-34). This is the third time He has told them with great detail what He was about to experience. But this request reveals that the disciples were still looking for glory, for power, for positions in an earthly kingdom. The dullness of the disciple’s hearing amazes us. How could they be so dull of hearing? How could they make such a request when Jesus is so plainly telling them that . . .
The Cross Comes before the Crown (10:32-34)
We too often only hear what we want to hear, don’t we? Parents only know this too well. We say “don’t forget to take out the garbage,” and when it’s not done we say “did you not hear me?” Of course, they heard us but they practiced selective hearing. On the other hand, mention something that appeals to some desire that they have and their all ears. Maybe spiritual “phonagnosia” is more common than we might think.
James and John aren’t the only disciples thinking thoughts of power and glory, not the only disciples who are dull of hearing. “When the ten heard about this, they became indignant with James and John” (v.41). Their probably a little upset that they had not come to Jesus first. So they try to come off sounding morally superior.
(2) The Disciples Were Ambitious. Ambition is not necessarily a bad thing, it’s good. Ambition just needs to be channeled properly. Sometimes we speak of the old Puritan work ethic – the idea that because all of life is to be lived under God and for God, we are to give God our best is founded in Scripture. There’s no special reward for lack of ambition, for slothfulness. Ambition is good it just needs to be holy ambition. Holy ambition will motivate a man or woman to be a man or woman of God, to be a loyal husband or wife, to be an honest employee or employer. Ambition is not the problem, it is how we go about pursuing our ambitions. Success is achieved when our motives our pure and when we have a heart of service.
(3) The Disciples Were Committed Followers of Jesus. They misunderstood Jesus’ mission, but you cannot doubt their commitment to the person of Jesus. They were willing to follow Jesus even if it meant sacrifice and suffering which it did. No one could accuse the disciples of being apathetic or complacent. They were willing to follow Jesus wherever He led them.
2. The Description of Greatness (10:42-45)
Jesus uses the rivalry playing out among the disciples as a teaching moment (vv.42-45). The disciples have forgotten that they are citizens of a new kingdom now, a kingdom where things are done differently. They are not of the world anymore, yet they are still acting as if they are. How do people rule in the world? The world has its CEO’s, executives, bosses, supervisors, and superiors. Leadership is from the top down. People with power rule over those who are lower on the ladder than they are. There is a pecking order that is followed in the world. The boss calls the shots. It’s mostly a top down model of leadership that easily can be corrupted and manipulated into a kind of Lordship over others. The disciples kind of like that model. They have given up their jobs, their families, everything to follow Jesus and they feel as if they deserve to be recognized and to be held as prominent. “We want what we have worked for, we want what we deserve.”
Jesus pulls out the rug from underneath them and deflates their plans of glory with the phrase found in verse 43, “Not so with you.” This should not be taken to mean that God cannot use business principles that are commonly found in the world. There are business and leadership principles that the world uses that are good, they are sound, they do not run contrary to biblical principles. People like John Maxwell have made a good living tapping into these business principles that are biblically sound. It’s not the principles, it’s the application of the principles that gets us into trouble. People are not numbers, not commodities, not only objects to improve our bottom line. The disciples are in love with the idea of recognition, self-promotion, with their own sense of importance and greatness and Jesus sees right through it.
Jesus proposes an alternate model of leadership (vv.43-45) – Servant leadership! Remember the Old Testament story of Rheboam, King Solomon’s son? When Solomon died Rheboam was in line to inherit the kingdom of Israel. However, because Rheboam did not follow the wisdom of his father’s elders, the kingdom split in two. The elders had simply advised Rheboam to lead the people by being a servant. Public service – what a concept! The only problem with this advice is that Rheboam had bought into the idea of the divine right of kings, which pretty much rules out the serving aspect of leadership. What Jesus proposed then and now is servant leadership. This is the model that is to prevail in the church of God. Service leads to success.
Challenges to Disciples Today
There are some challenges to disciples today that come out of this exchange between the disciples and Jesus.
1. Change How You Measure Success
How does God measure success? Whose standard are you following? Is success measured in how many people you are over? Or how many people you are impacting for God, for something positive? Is success measured by how much you have in the way of material things? Or the depth of your personal relationships? The problem for many of us is that we measure success based on what someone else has or does. Then, when we do not acquire what we feel we should or do what we think we should, we become frustrated and unfulfilled.
But just what is the measure of success? The measure of success for you is to look at what God has given to you in the way of talents, time, treasure. Then, ask yourself, “Am I being faithful to use what God has given to me?” (See Matthew 25:14-25). If God is going to measure my success based on what He has given to me and what He has asked me to do, then I better start considering my life in light of this reality.
2. Channel Your Ambitions toward Worthy Goals
Channel your ambitions into that which God has called you to do. In other words, you’ve got to answer the first question before you can know how to channel your ambitions. So find out what God has given to you and what He wants you to do. Then, begin to channel your ambitions toward fulfilling God’s good goals for your life. (See 1 Cor. 9:24; Phil. 3:14).
3. Chose to Follow Jesus Wherever He Leads
Being a follower of Jesus does not mean that we will always feel happy or be in a safe friendly environment. Following Jesus is not always safe and sterile. In fact, following Jesus will most likely disrupt your life. It might mean taking care of an aging parent when you would like to do something else. It might mean taking care of a sick child. It might mean that you have to put your dreams on hold to commit to some act of service that you know God wants you to do, so you serve God and you find joy in knowing that you are a committed follower of Jesus Christ.
This is what it means to be on the road to greatness. Let’s be sure we hear the voice of Jesus, follow His example and do what He says to do.
For His Glory!
Pastor Joe
Scripture Reading: Mark 10:32-45
As a boy growing up in Northern Virginia, Steve Royster was confronted with a small but persistent mystery – a mystery that presented itself every time he used the phone. “Everyone always knew when I was calling just by the sound of my voice,” Royster says, “while I had no earthly idea who was on the phone when they called.” Royster has phonagnosia – or voice blindness – a rare and very strange disorder. Like everyone else, phonagnosics can tell from the sound of your voice if you’re male or female, young or old, upset or happy. They just have no idea of who you are. Apparently, the part of the brain that makes sense of whether or not the voice they are hearing has “personal relevance” is damaged.
1. The Desire for Greatness (10:35-41)
Based on the request that the disciples made of Jesus, it’s obvious that the disciples were hearing Jesus’ voice, but not recognizing the “personal relevance” of what He was really saying. There are some things that stand out about the disciples from this passage. We will look at three of them.
(1) The Disciples Were Dull of Hearing
It wasn’t that they did not know who Jesus was or that Jesus was not being clear, He was (see vv.32-34). This is the third time He has told them with great detail what He was about to experience. But this request reveals that the disciples were still looking for glory, for power, for positions in an earthly kingdom. The dullness of the disciple’s hearing amazes us. How could they be so dull of hearing? How could they make such a request when Jesus is so plainly telling them that . . .
The Cross Comes before the Crown (10:32-34)
We too often only hear what we want to hear, don’t we? Parents only know this too well. We say “don’t forget to take out the garbage,” and when it’s not done we say “did you not hear me?” Of course, they heard us but they practiced selective hearing. On the other hand, mention something that appeals to some desire that they have and their all ears. Maybe spiritual “phonagnosia” is more common than we might think.
James and John aren’t the only disciples thinking thoughts of power and glory, not the only disciples who are dull of hearing. “When the ten heard about this, they became indignant with James and John” (v.41). Their probably a little upset that they had not come to Jesus first. So they try to come off sounding morally superior.
(2) The Disciples Were Ambitious. Ambition is not necessarily a bad thing, it’s good. Ambition just needs to be channeled properly. Sometimes we speak of the old Puritan work ethic – the idea that because all of life is to be lived under God and for God, we are to give God our best is founded in Scripture. There’s no special reward for lack of ambition, for slothfulness. Ambition is good it just needs to be holy ambition. Holy ambition will motivate a man or woman to be a man or woman of God, to be a loyal husband or wife, to be an honest employee or employer. Ambition is not the problem, it is how we go about pursuing our ambitions. Success is achieved when our motives our pure and when we have a heart of service.
(3) The Disciples Were Committed Followers of Jesus. They misunderstood Jesus’ mission, but you cannot doubt their commitment to the person of Jesus. They were willing to follow Jesus even if it meant sacrifice and suffering which it did. No one could accuse the disciples of being apathetic or complacent. They were willing to follow Jesus wherever He led them.
2. The Description of Greatness (10:42-45)
Jesus uses the rivalry playing out among the disciples as a teaching moment (vv.42-45). The disciples have forgotten that they are citizens of a new kingdom now, a kingdom where things are done differently. They are not of the world anymore, yet they are still acting as if they are. How do people rule in the world? The world has its CEO’s, executives, bosses, supervisors, and superiors. Leadership is from the top down. People with power rule over those who are lower on the ladder than they are. There is a pecking order that is followed in the world. The boss calls the shots. It’s mostly a top down model of leadership that easily can be corrupted and manipulated into a kind of Lordship over others. The disciples kind of like that model. They have given up their jobs, their families, everything to follow Jesus and they feel as if they deserve to be recognized and to be held as prominent. “We want what we have worked for, we want what we deserve.”
Jesus pulls out the rug from underneath them and deflates their plans of glory with the phrase found in verse 43, “Not so with you.” This should not be taken to mean that God cannot use business principles that are commonly found in the world. There are business and leadership principles that the world uses that are good, they are sound, they do not run contrary to biblical principles. People like John Maxwell have made a good living tapping into these business principles that are biblically sound. It’s not the principles, it’s the application of the principles that gets us into trouble. People are not numbers, not commodities, not only objects to improve our bottom line. The disciples are in love with the idea of recognition, self-promotion, with their own sense of importance and greatness and Jesus sees right through it.
Jesus proposes an alternate model of leadership (vv.43-45) – Servant leadership! Remember the Old Testament story of Rheboam, King Solomon’s son? When Solomon died Rheboam was in line to inherit the kingdom of Israel. However, because Rheboam did not follow the wisdom of his father’s elders, the kingdom split in two. The elders had simply advised Rheboam to lead the people by being a servant. Public service – what a concept! The only problem with this advice is that Rheboam had bought into the idea of the divine right of kings, which pretty much rules out the serving aspect of leadership. What Jesus proposed then and now is servant leadership. This is the model that is to prevail in the church of God. Service leads to success.
Challenges to Disciples Today
There are some challenges to disciples today that come out of this exchange between the disciples and Jesus.
1. Change How You Measure Success
How does God measure success? Whose standard are you following? Is success measured in how many people you are over? Or how many people you are impacting for God, for something positive? Is success measured by how much you have in the way of material things? Or the depth of your personal relationships? The problem for many of us is that we measure success based on what someone else has or does. Then, when we do not acquire what we feel we should or do what we think we should, we become frustrated and unfulfilled.
But just what is the measure of success? The measure of success for you is to look at what God has given to you in the way of talents, time, treasure. Then, ask yourself, “Am I being faithful to use what God has given to me?” (See Matthew 25:14-25). If God is going to measure my success based on what He has given to me and what He has asked me to do, then I better start considering my life in light of this reality.
2. Channel Your Ambitions toward Worthy Goals
Channel your ambitions into that which God has called you to do. In other words, you’ve got to answer the first question before you can know how to channel your ambitions. So find out what God has given to you and what He wants you to do. Then, begin to channel your ambitions toward fulfilling God’s good goals for your life. (See 1 Cor. 9:24; Phil. 3:14).
3. Chose to Follow Jesus Wherever He Leads
Being a follower of Jesus does not mean that we will always feel happy or be in a safe friendly environment. Following Jesus is not always safe and sterile. In fact, following Jesus will most likely disrupt your life. It might mean taking care of an aging parent when you would like to do something else. It might mean taking care of a sick child. It might mean that you have to put your dreams on hold to commit to some act of service that you know God wants you to do, so you serve God and you find joy in knowing that you are a committed follower of Jesus Christ.
This is what it means to be on the road to greatness. Let’s be sure we hear the voice of Jesus, follow His example and do what He says to do.
For His Glory!
Pastor Joe
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Erosion: Its Evidence and Eradication (I Kings 11:41-12:24; 14:21-31)
A sermon preached on July 4, 2010 at Hebron Baptist Church, Denham Springs, Louisiana by Pastor Joe Alain.
Louisiana has lost 1,900 square miles of land since the 1930's due to coastal erosion. Hurricanes Katrina and Rita alone transformed 217 square miles of marsh into open water in coastal Louisiana. Erosion of our coastal wetlands occurs naturally but it can also be accelerated by how we manage our wetlands. Between 1990 and 2000, wetland loss was approximately 24 square miles per year – that is the staggering equivalent of approximately one football field lost every 38 minutes.
Spiritual erosion occurs naturally but it too can be accelerated. Rehoboam, king of Judah and the nation were experiencing accelerated erosion. In this story, we discover the tragedy of an eroding life and nation. The great preacher F. B. Myer said “No man suddenly becomes base [corrupt, worthless, immoral].” It’s a gradual process of spiritual erosion. Chuck Swindoll tells the story of a tree in his neighborhood that had stood as a landmark for many years. He thought that the tree would be there forever, but one day without notice the tree fell. Upon closer examination, it was discovered that inside the tree it was pithy and diseased. It rotted from within. It never looked diseased on the outside but once it fell it was obvious to all that it was sick. The process of erosion had taken its toll and was now on display for all to see.
Webster defines erosion as “The process of where something is diminished or destroyed by degrees. To eat into, or to eat away by slow destruction of substance, to deteriorate.” Erosion is slow, silent, and secret but after the collapse you can see plainly. Today, we will examine a life that has long since fallen, and in doing so, we can also see how to avoid spiritual erosion in our lives.
Rehoboam’s Roots
(1) Rehoboam enjoyed an enviable heritage. He was the son of Solomon who followed his father’s reign as king of Judah (1 Ki. 11:41-43). Rehoboam was 41 years of age when he began his rule (1 Ki. 14:21) and he ruled for 17 years.
(2) Rehoboam grew up surrounded by wealth and privilege (see 1 Ki. 10:14-27). Solomon says about his own pursuit of pleasure, “I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure” (Ecc. 2:10).
(3) Rehoboam lived in a dysfunctional family. He was a neglected child. Solomon was too busy for his family. How could Solomon spend time with Rehoboam when Solomon “loved many foreign women” 700 to be exact (1 Ki. 11:3). Along with them came their gods and their children. Rehoboam was one of them, a son of an Ammonite woman named Naamah (1 Ki. 14:21). Rehoboam grew up in an a-moral culture.
What were the causes for this national and spiritual erosion? And what can be done to stem erosion in our spiritual lives and in our nation?
1. He Listened to Unwise Counsel (1 Ki. 12:1-15)
The people (v.4) said, “Lighten our load and we will serve you.” Rehoboam consulted with the elders (vv.6-7) who concurred with the request of the people. However, he rejected the counsel of the elders in favor of the counsel that his young advisers offered (vv.8-15). Rehoboam like Solomon before him got into trouble because he believed in the divine right of kings which caused him to arrogantly throw his power around. Whose advice are you listening too? Listening to unwise counsel leads to erosion.
2. He Followed His Parents’ Weak Example at Home Rather than the Truths of Scripture (1 Ki. 14:21-24)
Rehoboam did evil and participated in idolatry (v.23). Judah became immoral as the other nations (v.24). It is true, you become like the god that you worship. Where did Rehoboam learn to live like this? He was influenced by his mother, an Ammonite (v.21) and Solomon his father (1 Ki. 11:1-8). Rehoboam could not filter out the good from the bad influences. Parents, what kind of example are you setting for your children?
3. He Substituted the Authentic with the Synthetic (14:25-28)
Shishak, King of Egypt attacked Jerusalem (v.25) and the temple was plundered (v.26). Rehoboam had bronze shields made to replace the gold (v.27). These inferior shields were kept in the “guardroom” not the temple. Bronze shields are easier to make but they require continual shining. Instead of admitting that he’s wrong, admitting that the nation is under God’s judgement, admitting that their broke Rehoboam covers up, fakes it. Keep the shields shining, don’t let anyone know anything different. You do that when spiritual erosion sets in.
You haven’t started doing that have you? Do you remember when life was pure, authentic, real, fresh? When Adam and Eve sinned, the first thing they did was try to cover up, pretend nothing’s wrong, we do the same.
4. Rehoboam Refused to Seek the Lord (2 Chron. 12:14)
He was unwilling to seek the Lord with his whole heart. He dabbled just enough in religion to be dangerously content and smug feeling that he was ok. The result of all of this was that Rehoboam and the nation experienced continuous wars during his reign (14:21, 30). He lived in chaos, turmoil, and there was no peace. There is no peace for the wicked.
Your life does not have to erode. Our nation does not have to go the way of Rome. America is great because of its people. And if we will continue to be great, it will also be because of her people!
So how do we eradicate spiritual erosion?
The Eradication of Erosion
First, we must recognize that . . .
1. Any life can erode
How can you tell? There are signs of erosion. What are they? Here are some signs that spiritual erosion is evident in your life.
(1) A diminished interest in studying or reading the Bible.
(2) Rationalizing sin.
(3) An unhealthy attachment to material things.
(4) Not consulting God on major decisions.
(5) Accepting the influence of others who couldn’t care less about God.
Are any of these signs of erosion present in your life?
2. Surround yourself with godly counselors
Prov. 11:14; 12:15; 13:20; 15:22
3. Emulate godly examples
Pattern your life after godly examples, aspire to greatness.
4.Guard your heart (Prov. 4:23)
From the heart flows everything else; therefore, guard your heart. Along our coast embankments are being built to keep the oil out of our fragile marshes. It is imperative that the oil be kept away. And so it is with our lives. It is imperative that we keep sin away from our heart. We need to establish a spiritual embankment that will allow no ungodly thought or action to find a place in our heart.
For His Glory!
Pastor Joe
Louisiana has lost 1,900 square miles of land since the 1930's due to coastal erosion. Hurricanes Katrina and Rita alone transformed 217 square miles of marsh into open water in coastal Louisiana. Erosion of our coastal wetlands occurs naturally but it can also be accelerated by how we manage our wetlands. Between 1990 and 2000, wetland loss was approximately 24 square miles per year – that is the staggering equivalent of approximately one football field lost every 38 minutes.
Spiritual erosion occurs naturally but it too can be accelerated. Rehoboam, king of Judah and the nation were experiencing accelerated erosion. In this story, we discover the tragedy of an eroding life and nation. The great preacher F. B. Myer said “No man suddenly becomes base [corrupt, worthless, immoral].” It’s a gradual process of spiritual erosion. Chuck Swindoll tells the story of a tree in his neighborhood that had stood as a landmark for many years. He thought that the tree would be there forever, but one day without notice the tree fell. Upon closer examination, it was discovered that inside the tree it was pithy and diseased. It rotted from within. It never looked diseased on the outside but once it fell it was obvious to all that it was sick. The process of erosion had taken its toll and was now on display for all to see.
Webster defines erosion as “The process of where something is diminished or destroyed by degrees. To eat into, or to eat away by slow destruction of substance, to deteriorate.” Erosion is slow, silent, and secret but after the collapse you can see plainly. Today, we will examine a life that has long since fallen, and in doing so, we can also see how to avoid spiritual erosion in our lives.
Rehoboam’s Roots
(1) Rehoboam enjoyed an enviable heritage. He was the son of Solomon who followed his father’s reign as king of Judah (1 Ki. 11:41-43). Rehoboam was 41 years of age when he began his rule (1 Ki. 14:21) and he ruled for 17 years.
(2) Rehoboam grew up surrounded by wealth and privilege (see 1 Ki. 10:14-27). Solomon says about his own pursuit of pleasure, “I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure” (Ecc. 2:10).
(3) Rehoboam lived in a dysfunctional family. He was a neglected child. Solomon was too busy for his family. How could Solomon spend time with Rehoboam when Solomon “loved many foreign women” 700 to be exact (1 Ki. 11:3). Along with them came their gods and their children. Rehoboam was one of them, a son of an Ammonite woman named Naamah (1 Ki. 14:21). Rehoboam grew up in an a-moral culture.
What were the causes for this national and spiritual erosion? And what can be done to stem erosion in our spiritual lives and in our nation?
1. He Listened to Unwise Counsel (1 Ki. 12:1-15)
The people (v.4) said, “Lighten our load and we will serve you.” Rehoboam consulted with the elders (vv.6-7) who concurred with the request of the people. However, he rejected the counsel of the elders in favor of the counsel that his young advisers offered (vv.8-15). Rehoboam like Solomon before him got into trouble because he believed in the divine right of kings which caused him to arrogantly throw his power around. Whose advice are you listening too? Listening to unwise counsel leads to erosion.
2. He Followed His Parents’ Weak Example at Home Rather than the Truths of Scripture (1 Ki. 14:21-24)
Rehoboam did evil and participated in idolatry (v.23). Judah became immoral as the other nations (v.24). It is true, you become like the god that you worship. Where did Rehoboam learn to live like this? He was influenced by his mother, an Ammonite (v.21) and Solomon his father (1 Ki. 11:1-8). Rehoboam could not filter out the good from the bad influences. Parents, what kind of example are you setting for your children?
3. He Substituted the Authentic with the Synthetic (14:25-28)
Shishak, King of Egypt attacked Jerusalem (v.25) and the temple was plundered (v.26). Rehoboam had bronze shields made to replace the gold (v.27). These inferior shields were kept in the “guardroom” not the temple. Bronze shields are easier to make but they require continual shining. Instead of admitting that he’s wrong, admitting that the nation is under God’s judgement, admitting that their broke Rehoboam covers up, fakes it. Keep the shields shining, don’t let anyone know anything different. You do that when spiritual erosion sets in.
You haven’t started doing that have you? Do you remember when life was pure, authentic, real, fresh? When Adam and Eve sinned, the first thing they did was try to cover up, pretend nothing’s wrong, we do the same.
4. Rehoboam Refused to Seek the Lord (2 Chron. 12:14)
He was unwilling to seek the Lord with his whole heart. He dabbled just enough in religion to be dangerously content and smug feeling that he was ok. The result of all of this was that Rehoboam and the nation experienced continuous wars during his reign (14:21, 30). He lived in chaos, turmoil, and there was no peace. There is no peace for the wicked.
Your life does not have to erode. Our nation does not have to go the way of Rome. America is great because of its people. And if we will continue to be great, it will also be because of her people!
So how do we eradicate spiritual erosion?
The Eradication of Erosion
First, we must recognize that . . .
1. Any life can erode
How can you tell? There are signs of erosion. What are they? Here are some signs that spiritual erosion is evident in your life.
(1) A diminished interest in studying or reading the Bible.
(2) Rationalizing sin.
(3) An unhealthy attachment to material things.
(4) Not consulting God on major decisions.
(5) Accepting the influence of others who couldn’t care less about God.
Are any of these signs of erosion present in your life?
2. Surround yourself with godly counselors
Prov. 11:14; 12:15; 13:20; 15:22
3. Emulate godly examples
Pattern your life after godly examples, aspire to greatness.
4.Guard your heart (Prov. 4:23)
From the heart flows everything else; therefore, guard your heart. Along our coast embankments are being built to keep the oil out of our fragile marshes. It is imperative that the oil be kept away. And so it is with our lives. It is imperative that we keep sin away from our heart. We need to establish a spiritual embankment that will allow no ungodly thought or action to find a place in our heart.
For His Glory!
Pastor Joe
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