In Matthew 2:13 we read, "And when they were departed, behold the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him."
While Mary held the precious Son of God in her arms, as Joseph looked on in amazement, while Shepherds glorified the Christ child, and Wise Men from the East presented Him gifts, Jesus was not revered, reverenced, nor received by most--especially the civic, religious, and self-righteous leaders of His day.
Herod, who had himself appointed "The King of the Jews" by the Roman Senate, was on a search and destroy mission before our Lord had reached his second birthday.
HEROD WILL SEEK TO DESTROY HIM the angel warned Joseph. And so the holy family moved south into Egypt until it was safe for them to return to Nazareth in Galilee.
CERTAINLY THE ENEMIES OF CHRIST WERE NUMEROUS DURING HIS 33 YEAR SOJOURN ON EARTH.
There were religious enemies. The Pharisees--that strict band of legalists--who used the law to break the law of God--were His ardent antagonists. Their system was threatened by His sincerity.
There were political enemies. Herod, and then Pilate were out to execute Jesus. Their system was threatened by His authority.
There were carnal, self-righteous men, who would take up stones to kill Jesus when He identified himself as "I AM." (John 8:59). Their comfortable world view was threatened by the power of His Truth.
AFTER THE LORD JESUS ASCENDED INTO HEAVEN, CHRIST'S BODY ON EARTH--THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST--WAS STILL IN THE CROSS HAIRS OF A SEARCH AND DESTROY MISSION.
Dr. Thompson, on his Apologetics Web Site, put it this way, "Christ and His Gospel message turned the world of the first century upside down (Acts 17:6). Even His worst enemies recognized the impact He was having. When the Pharisees and cheif priests sent their officers to seize Christ on one occasion, the officers returned empty handed. When asked why they had failed in their quest, the only answer they could offer was, 'Never a man spake like this man.'" (john 7:46).
"As Christianity spread, its enemies no longer were content merely to object to its central tenets or those who espoused them. Eventually, vocal disagreement gave way to physical violence. The efforts of the Roman emperor Nero to obliterate Christ's message by charging His followers with all manner of falsehoods, and killing them by the thousands, are well documented."
"Try as they might, however Christ's enemies could not accomplish their ill fated goal. While its foes consigned it to die a thousand deaths, the 'corpse of Christianity,' never remained in the grave. With each persecution it grew stronger and spread farther. ...So the enemies of Christ took to discrediting the sources of Christian revelation, to undermining the principles of Christ, and to destroying or diminishing the disciplines of Christ."
There really is nothing new under the sun. Satan's attack has been from the beginning, injecting doubt "hath God said?" and then deceiving, "Ye shall not surely die!"
Enemies like Porphyry in the Ancient world, Voltaire in the Renaissance, David Hume, Renen, and Darwin, in the 18th and 19th centuries, and John Dewey in the 20th century, raised significant challenges to the Christian Church.
THE CHURCH OF OUR DAY SEEMS ILL-PREPARED TO MEET THE CHALLENGE OF THIS HOUR.
The Barna Group surveyed 5,000 people to assess the key trends facing the Church in 2011. Their six findings are in sync with our own observations:
1. The Christian Church is becoming less theologically literate.
2. Christians are becoming more ingrown and less outreach oriented.
3. Growing numbers of people are less interested in spiritual principles and more desirous of learning practical solutions for life.
4. Among Chrisitans, interest in participating in community action is escalating.
5. THE POST-MODERN INSISTENCE ON TOLERANCE IS WINNING OVER THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH.
6. The INFLUENCE OF CHRISTIANITY ON CULTURE AND INDIVIDUAL LIVES IS LARGELY INVISIBLE. (I might add a corollary truth: THE INFLUENCE OF CULTURE ON CHRISTIANITY IS PROFOUNDLY VISIBLE!)
Today the SEARCH AND DESTROY mission is led not only by avowed atheists and famed skeptics, but it is spearheaded by those who would strip the church of her doctrine, her distinctives, and her disciplines.
By DOCTRINE we mean the fundamental truths revealed in Scripture regarding the nature of God, the nature of man, sin, salvation, sanctification, glorification, heaven and hell.
By DISTINCTIVES we mean the Scriptural principles that govern God's Church. We are to be holy! We are to be righteous! We are to be loving. We are to be humble. We are to be submissive.
By DISCIPLINES we mean the particular application of doctrine and distinctives.
For example, one of our distinctives is gender specificity. We reject unisex. Each gender should think, act, and present themselves as distinct from the other. Men should dress in such a way that no one would doubt their masculinity--not in skirts, or blouses, sissy looking attire, or with jewelry. God's ladies should dress in such a way that no one would doubt their effeminacy--not in trousers and macho-looking clothing. There is a reason that God inspired Moses to write, "The woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto a man, neither shall the man put on a woman's garment, for all that do so are an abomination unto the Lord thy God." Deut. 22:5. Orthodox Jewish woman and men dress distinctively. Their women wear modest skirts and dresses, never trousers. Their men never wear effeminate looking clothing.
It is our conviction that because the Church of Jesus Christ refused to insist on this distinction that our culture has become confused about gender and thus we see the specter of men marrying men, and women marrying women. God had a reason for making this rule. He knew that fallen men could not fulfill their God-given roles unless they thought, acted, and looked the part.
Another Example: As Christians another of our distinctives is modesty. The Bible teaches that women are to dress in modest apparel. Our discipline then requires us to make specific standards. For men, keep your shirts on and your pants pulled up and long. For women, keep a sleeve in your blouses, keep them buttoned so as not to be revealing, and keep your skirts below the knee.
Another of our distinctives is "to avoid the appearance of evil," and to "keep ourselves pure." So our discipline urges us to avoid entertainments on the screen, the stage, on the airwaves, or over the internet, that are not of good report.
We also oppose pride and embrace humility. So simplicity in dress as the Apostle Paul would put it, "not with gold, and pearls, and costly array," is not optional. This is an expression of hearts whose sole purpose is to glorify God and not self.
TRAGICALLY THE SEARCH AND DESTROY MISSION HAS NEARLY SILENCED THE PULPITS AND PEOPLE OF THE LIVING GOD. "Legalism" they cry. "Legal" we reply.
IF THERE WAS EVER A DAY WHEN THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST NEEDED A REVIVAL OF PURE, AUTHENTIC, ORIGINAL RECIPE, FIRST CENTURY CHRISTIANITY it is ours. It is our only hope to thwart and defend against Satan's search and destroy mission.
WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU HEARD OF AN ARMY THAT WON BY SURRENDERING? Why do we think that the Church of Jesus Christ will win in our day, by surrendering to the culture--the carnal spirit of this age.
COMPROMISING IN THE NAME OF "SEEKER SENSITIVE," OR "RELEVANCY" has only weakened the church. Our numbers are lower than ever. Our influence in our nation has never been weaker.
JOSEPH SAVED THE LORD JESUS FROM HEROD'S WRATH BY OBEYING THE WORD OF GOD. Only obedience will save Christ's body--the Church, and our own souls today.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
OUR CALLING TO FULFILL
The mission of our church is specific:
...To proclaim God's Truth (revealed without error in the Bible),
...To evangelize the lost,
...To be faithful disciples--followers of Jesus Christ,
...To example Christ-like love for God and for one another,
...To promote Scriptural holiness of heart and life, and
...To advance Christian virtue in the public square.
In recent months we have become increasingly aware of this fact: It is much easier to state a mission, than it is to fulfill a mission!
To fulfill the mission God has given us, will require specific commitments by God's people.
1. IF THERE IS WARMTH THERE MUST BE LOVE!
If our services are to be noted for spiritual warmth, there must be that "going the extra mile," self-less, hospitable, caring, sacrificial, loyal love.
2. IF THERE IS OUTREACH THERE MUST BE REACH-OUT!
It is not enough to pray that God will send in the lost, we must go to them. Jesus said, "Go ye therefore and teach all nations." (Matthew 28:19ff)
3. IF THERE IS POWER THERE MUST BE PRAYER!
Powerlessness is the inevitable consequence of prayerlessness. Our prayer life must be faithful, consistent, insistent, and persistent!
4. IF THERE IS WORSHIP THERE MUST BE SACRIFICE!
The English word from which we derive "worship" is "worth-ship." It is only when we consider the presence of God greater worth than the fleeting pleasures and treasures of earth, that we can experience true worship. Paying the price of holy discipline, giving our voices and our attention and involvement in worship are vital to experiencing the presense of God.
Those who see the cross, will with Isaac Watts testify, "all the vain things that charm me most, I sacrifice them to His blood," and then know the joy and wonder of worship.
5. IF THERE IS CONVICTION THERE MUST BE TRUTH!
The tragedy of our times is that too many preachers fear to tell the truth, and too many in the pews do not want to hear the truth. It is no wonder that there is so little conviction in our services.
6. IF THERE IS PEACE, THERE MUST BE WAR!
Churches that have surrendered to the spirit of the age, to the world, the flesh, and the devil, will never know the peace of God that passes understanding. Only those who have declared war on the enemies of man's soul will know peace.
7. IF THERE IS VICTORY, THERE MUST BE SURRENDER!
Not surrender to the enemy, rather an unconditional surrender to do the whole will of God. Those who testify, "All to Jesus I Surrender" will testify with the songwriter, "Gone is the battle that once raged within, I have peace."
In conclusion we would note that for every soul, and for every church, IF THERE IS HEAVEN THERE MUST BE HOLINESS. The Scripture declares, "Pursue peace with all men and holiness without which no man shall see the Lord." "Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God." This holiness is not imputed, rather it is imparted by the Spirit of Holiness to all who "hunger and thirst after righteousness."
May God enable His Church to rise up in this late hour, to declare the whole counsel of god, and to be the Church He has called us to be in this generation. Charles Wesley's testimony is our prayer:
A charge to keep I have,
A God to glorify
A never-dying soul to save,
And fit it for the skies.
To serve this present age,
My calling to fulfill,
Oh may it all my powers engage,
To do my Master's will.
Arm me with jealous care,
As in thy sight to live,
And O thy servant Lord prepare
A strict account to give.
Help me to watch and pray,
And on thyself rely,
Assured if I my trust betray,
I shall forever die.
...To proclaim God's Truth (revealed without error in the Bible),
...To evangelize the lost,
...To be faithful disciples--followers of Jesus Christ,
...To example Christ-like love for God and for one another,
...To promote Scriptural holiness of heart and life, and
...To advance Christian virtue in the public square.
In recent months we have become increasingly aware of this fact: It is much easier to state a mission, than it is to fulfill a mission!
To fulfill the mission God has given us, will require specific commitments by God's people.
1. IF THERE IS WARMTH THERE MUST BE LOVE!
If our services are to be noted for spiritual warmth, there must be that "going the extra mile," self-less, hospitable, caring, sacrificial, loyal love.
2. IF THERE IS OUTREACH THERE MUST BE REACH-OUT!
It is not enough to pray that God will send in the lost, we must go to them. Jesus said, "Go ye therefore and teach all nations." (Matthew 28:19ff)
3. IF THERE IS POWER THERE MUST BE PRAYER!
Powerlessness is the inevitable consequence of prayerlessness. Our prayer life must be faithful, consistent, insistent, and persistent!
4. IF THERE IS WORSHIP THERE MUST BE SACRIFICE!
The English word from which we derive "worship" is "worth-ship." It is only when we consider the presence of God greater worth than the fleeting pleasures and treasures of earth, that we can experience true worship. Paying the price of holy discipline, giving our voices and our attention and involvement in worship are vital to experiencing the presense of God.
Those who see the cross, will with Isaac Watts testify, "all the vain things that charm me most, I sacrifice them to His blood," and then know the joy and wonder of worship.
5. IF THERE IS CONVICTION THERE MUST BE TRUTH!
The tragedy of our times is that too many preachers fear to tell the truth, and too many in the pews do not want to hear the truth. It is no wonder that there is so little conviction in our services.
6. IF THERE IS PEACE, THERE MUST BE WAR!
Churches that have surrendered to the spirit of the age, to the world, the flesh, and the devil, will never know the peace of God that passes understanding. Only those who have declared war on the enemies of man's soul will know peace.
7. IF THERE IS VICTORY, THERE MUST BE SURRENDER!
Not surrender to the enemy, rather an unconditional surrender to do the whole will of God. Those who testify, "All to Jesus I Surrender" will testify with the songwriter, "Gone is the battle that once raged within, I have peace."
In conclusion we would note that for every soul, and for every church, IF THERE IS HEAVEN THERE MUST BE HOLINESS. The Scripture declares, "Pursue peace with all men and holiness without which no man shall see the Lord." "Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God." This holiness is not imputed, rather it is imparted by the Spirit of Holiness to all who "hunger and thirst after righteousness."
May God enable His Church to rise up in this late hour, to declare the whole counsel of god, and to be the Church He has called us to be in this generation. Charles Wesley's testimony is our prayer:
A charge to keep I have,
A God to glorify
A never-dying soul to save,
And fit it for the skies.
To serve this present age,
My calling to fulfill,
Oh may it all my powers engage,
To do my Master's will.
Arm me with jealous care,
As in thy sight to live,
And O thy servant Lord prepare
A strict account to give.
Help me to watch and pray,
And on thyself rely,
Assured if I my trust betray,
I shall forever die.
Friday, September 3, 2010
CALLED CHOSEN AND FAITHFUL
These shall make war with the Lamb, and
the Lamb shall overcome them:
For HE IS LORD OF LORDS, AND KING OF KINGS:
and they that are with him are
Called, and Chosen, and Faithful.
R E V E L A T I O N 1 7 : 1 4
________________________________________________the Lamb shall overcome them:
For HE IS LORD OF LORDS, AND KING OF KINGS:
and they that are with him are
Called, and Chosen, and Faithful.
R E V E L A T I O N 1 7 : 1 4
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Good Morning Friends of FCC!
What a joy it has been to join hands with you on our way to the City of God.
I can only imagine what it will be when we grasp the nail-scarred hand of the Lord Jesus and He leads us into that place He has gone to prepare for us! (John 14:1-6)
What a day that will be when my Jesus I shall see,
When I look upon His face, the one who saves me by His grace!
When He takes me by the hand, and leads me through the Promised Land,
What a day! Glorious day that will be!
Until then, what an encouragement it is to join hands with you while we journey through the City of Man. We really do need to encourage and support one another. There have been many times when your kind words, your faithful prayers, or even just your presence, has encouraged us forward!
We read of a great end time battle that will rage between Satan (the Beast) and his allies, and the LAMB OF GOD, WHO IS LORD OF LORDS AND KING OF KINGS and His people. Those identified with the LAMB OF GOD are “CALLED, AND CHOSEN, AND FAITHFUL!”
It seems to us that evil men are waxing worse and worse. Satan’s allies are aligning themselves against righteousness and holiness, against men of virtue and truth, and against nations who fear the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. There are some who are saying “Peace and Safety.” But God’s Word is warning us, “the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night, for when they shall say, Peace and safety, then sudden destruction comes upon them, as travail on a woman with child, and they shall not escape.” (1st Thessalonians 5:11ff)
Last Sunday we preached on THE CALL OF GOD! How wonderful it was to sense God’s Spirit and to see an entire family hear and heed that call. God has called men and women throughout history. He calls Churches to enlist in the crusade for righteousness and true holiness. He calls us to embrace His truth, to defend His truth, and to advance His truth! And God is calling us individually. He speaks, and we listen! We are called.
The Lord willing we will preach this Sunday on THE CHOSEN OF GOD! Who is it that God is chosing to be a part of His great Cause? The Scriptures are clear: God is chooses those who choose Him! I like that chorus: “When they number the ones who believe in HIM, Count me IN!” AMEN!
Have you heard the Lord calling you? Listen to His voice. Heed His good and perfect will for your life! GOD WILL COUNT YOU AMONG HIS CHOSEN
It is so exciting to see how the Lord is working this Community of Faith. I’m amazed as I see God’s grace at work in the lives of so many. Some are coming to the Lord for the first time. Others are coming home, after years of wandering. But God is calling! And God is choosing! And we will be faithful.
If you have a friend or family member who needs God, I hope you’ll bring them this weekend!
If you have a special prayer request that we should bring to the Lord, I hope you’ll write it down on your FCC CONNECTION card and bring it along with you. We will pray for each and every one.
OUR GREAT 14TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION IS NOW ONLY THREE WEEKS AWAY!
14TH ANNIVERSARY REVIVAL SERVICES will open on WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 at 7:00 P.M. You will be blessed to hear GREAT PREACHING and SOUL STIRRING SINGING and VICTORIOUS PRAYING! Plan now to attend every night, Wednesday through Saturday at 7:00 p.m.
14TH ANNIVERSARY REVIVAL SERVICES Wed. 9/15 – Sun. 9/19, 7 P
Hear P. L. Liddell, Ben Crawford, Andrew Durst, & Bishop Marsh Jones
14th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Sun. 9/19
10:30 A Sunday School Rally with GIANT CUPCAKE CAKE in the shape of our BUS!
11:00 A Morning Worship Celebration
Carry-In Dinner on the Grounds Under the Great Tent
6:30 P Evening Service Celebration
Saturday, June 5, 2010
STANDING IN THE NEED OF PRAYER
The Church of Jesus Christ celebrated Ascension Day this past Thursday, May 13, 2010 (That was also the day 15 years ago that Vickie and I walked along Lake Michigan near Lincoln Park in Chicago, and I gave her a white Bride’s Bible and asked her to be my wife.)
So what were Peter and John and James doing on this day, 1,980 years ago? What were Andrew, Philip, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Bartholomew, Simon, and the other disciples doing on this day, the first Resurrection Day without the Savior on Earth.
In Acts 1:14 we read:
These with one accord devoted themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the Mother of Jesus and with his brothers.
But where do we find the disciples?
Back in the Ancient city of Jerusalem, the disciples were in an upper room praying.
There would be time taken out to select a replacement for Judas, but then again they would be back on their knees in prayer.
Jesus had given them strict instructions: Acts 1:4
And while staying with them he charged them, not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which he said ‘you heard from me, for John baptized with water, but before many days you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit/Ghost.
Yes they were to be witnesses. Right before ascending to heaven Jesus gathered his disciples and said, “All authority (power) is heaven has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father an dof the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you; and lo I am with you always to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:19,20
And only minutes before Ascending, Jesus said,
Acts 1:7,8
It is not for you to know the times or the seasons which the Father has in his own power. But ye shall receive power after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you. And ye shall be witnesses unto me, in Jerusalem, Judea, and Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
And then he was gone…Angels beside him saying, “Why stand ye gazing up into heaven, this same Jesus which is taken up from you shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go.”
NOW THEY ARE PRAYING…
If prayer was the Lord’s command, and the first and foremost duty of the First Christians, why would we suppose ourselves exempt from the call to persistent, insistent, consistent prayer?
The Churches of our nation are more and more worldly, as nearly half of those who profess to be born again do not believe that the 10 Commandments are absolutely true—and that Jesus Christ is the only way to God.
The culture is more violent, promiscuous, and hateful by the day.
Only a move of God in Holy Ghost, Sin-Killing, Devil-Defeating Revival Power can stem the tide and turn our nation back to God.
WE MUST PRAY…AS INDIVIDUALS…
Until we pray we will never see God for who He is, and us for who we are.
--THE HOLINESS AND POWER OF GOD…our own sin and powerlessness and profound dependency
Until we pray, surrendering our lives to His absolute authority, we will have no authority against sin.
AS A COMMUNITY OF FAITH…
There will be no revival without prayer. And revival begets more prayer.
Only the effectual fervent prayer of God’s righteous men will avail much against the strongholds of the enemy.
Jesus said, My House shall be called an House of Prayer! Not a crass commercial business.
Jim Cymbala observes, “God birthed the church in a prayer meeting, and prayer meetings today are almost extinct.”
Until we pray we will not have what we need most—we rush around, we run around after this and that, when God is saying, “everything you need I have.”
Only a praying Church can be a soul-winning church
Only a praying Church can be a place where lives are changed, and the power of God is released in miracles.
Only a praying Church can be a bold witness against the Spirit of the Age.
No church should be measured by attendance, rather we must measure ourselves with the Word of God and our faithfulness to it.
Daily in the Temple and in every house…
Only a praying Church will be concerned about the never-dying souls of its community, of its neighbors, of its family.
Oh yes they prayed and turned the world right-side up.
Will we?
So what were Peter and John and James doing on this day, 1,980 years ago? What were Andrew, Philip, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Bartholomew, Simon, and the other disciples doing on this day, the first Resurrection Day without the Savior on Earth.
In Acts 1:14 we read:
These with one accord devoted themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the Mother of Jesus and with his brothers.
But where do we find the disciples?
Back in the Ancient city of Jerusalem, the disciples were in an upper room praying.
There would be time taken out to select a replacement for Judas, but then again they would be back on their knees in prayer.
Jesus had given them strict instructions: Acts 1:4
And while staying with them he charged them, not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which he said ‘you heard from me, for John baptized with water, but before many days you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit/Ghost.
Yes they were to be witnesses. Right before ascending to heaven Jesus gathered his disciples and said, “All authority (power) is heaven has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father an dof the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you; and lo I am with you always to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:19,20
And only minutes before Ascending, Jesus said,
Acts 1:7,8
It is not for you to know the times or the seasons which the Father has in his own power. But ye shall receive power after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you. And ye shall be witnesses unto me, in Jerusalem, Judea, and Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
And then he was gone…Angels beside him saying, “Why stand ye gazing up into heaven, this same Jesus which is taken up from you shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go.”
NOW THEY ARE PRAYING…
If prayer was the Lord’s command, and the first and foremost duty of the First Christians, why would we suppose ourselves exempt from the call to persistent, insistent, consistent prayer?
The Churches of our nation are more and more worldly, as nearly half of those who profess to be born again do not believe that the 10 Commandments are absolutely true—and that Jesus Christ is the only way to God.
The culture is more violent, promiscuous, and hateful by the day.
Only a move of God in Holy Ghost, Sin-Killing, Devil-Defeating Revival Power can stem the tide and turn our nation back to God.
WE MUST PRAY…AS INDIVIDUALS…
Until we pray we will never see God for who He is, and us for who we are.
--THE HOLINESS AND POWER OF GOD…our own sin and powerlessness and profound dependency
Until we pray, surrendering our lives to His absolute authority, we will have no authority against sin.
AS A COMMUNITY OF FAITH…
There will be no revival without prayer. And revival begets more prayer.
Only the effectual fervent prayer of God’s righteous men will avail much against the strongholds of the enemy.
Jesus said, My House shall be called an House of Prayer! Not a crass commercial business.
Jim Cymbala observes, “God birthed the church in a prayer meeting, and prayer meetings today are almost extinct.”
Until we pray we will not have what we need most—we rush around, we run around after this and that, when God is saying, “everything you need I have.”
Only a praying Church can be a soul-winning church
Only a praying Church can be a place where lives are changed, and the power of God is released in miracles.
Only a praying Church can be a bold witness against the Spirit of the Age.
No church should be measured by attendance, rather we must measure ourselves with the Word of God and our faithfulness to it.
Daily in the Temple and in every house…
Only a praying Church will be concerned about the never-dying souls of its community, of its neighbors, of its family.
Oh yes they prayed and turned the world right-side up.
Will we?
Thursday, June 3, 2010
LET NOT MAN PUT ASUNDER...
What God Has Joined Together…
JESUS said, “What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” (Mark 10:9). The disciples had asked the Lord about marriage. Christ was clear. It is not possible for a man to divide what God has joined together.
I have been thinking about other things that God has joined together that carnal men are trying to “put asunder” and divide.
THE UNITED STATES AND CHRISTIANITY
Before turning to the Scriptures, we would observe that our great nation was founded on the principles of the Judeo-Christian ethic, with a firm reliance upon the God of Scripture and our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Our Declaration of Independence reads, “All men are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”
Our first President, George Washington said, “It is impossible to rightly govern without God and the Bible.”
John Adams wrote, “The general principles upon which the Fathers achieved independence were the general principles of Christianity…I will avow that I believed and now believe that those general principles of Christianity are as immutable as the existence and attributes of God.”
In his plan for education, Benjamin Franklin insisted that schools should teach, “the excellency of the Christian religion above all others, ancient or modern.”
Patrick Henry declared, “It cannot be emphasized too clearly and too often that this nation was founded, not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religion, but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ. For this very reason, peoples of other faiths have been afforded asylum, prosperity, and freedom of worship here.”
The United States Supreme Court ruled, “America is a Christian nation,” at the end of the 19th century.
Yet at the dawn of the twentieth century, voices began to be heard, seeking to divide that which “God had joined together.” Now liberty has been uncoupled from morality. Rights have been separated from Right. And Privilege is no longer dependent upon Responsibility.
What God has joined together we put asunder at our own risk. Unless there is a great awakening, our liberty, our property, even our very existence is at risk.
THE SCRIPTURES teach us that God has joined together these great truths:
REPENTANCE AND FAITH
Until there is sincere repentance there can be no saving faith. It is impossible to believe that God has truly forgiven us until we have fully repented—literally changed our minds about sin.
After his baptism, Jesus preached, “Repent and believe the Gospel.” (John 1:15).
In Acts 20, the Apostle Paul tell the Ephesian Elders, “I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have showed you, and taught you publicly, and from house to house, testifying to the Jews and Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Acts 20:20,21). See also Hebrews 6:1.
It is our conviction that the reason so few possess the full assurance of faith, is that so few have failed to thoroughly repent of sin—wilful disobedience against the known law of God. Consequently many “profess that they know God, but in works they deny Him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.” (Titus 1:16).
SALVATION AND SANCTIFICATION
In his second letter to the Church at Thessalonica, the Apostle Paul declares, “God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit, and belief of the truth.” (2 Thessalonians 2:13).
To the Corinthians, Paul wrote, “Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. (1 Corinthians 6:9-11).
While we contend that sanctifying grace is able to cleanse away our natural inclination to sin and renew our heart in love, the Scriptures clearly teach that saved men are initially sanctified. In nearly every case that sanctification is not entire, but it is begun in the heart of the regenerated. God can only call a man righteous He has made righteous. He cannot lie.
HOLY HEARTS AND HOLY LIVES
There are some who have confused the effect of holiness (separation from the world, the flesh, and the devil) with the cause of holiness, and in so doing they have entirely missed the heart of holiness (i.e. righteousness, joy, peace, and love). Their bitter, censorious, and harsh critique of those who do not live “by the book” (that book usually being the Church Manual) has turned many away from the highway of holiness.In reaction against those who have accented separation from the world (especially in entertainments, adornments, and lifestyle), there has risen a large contingent of “Anti-Pharisees” who believe themselves to be “Super Saints.”
Like the Gnostics of the First Century they suppose that they know the real truth, and so how they live their lives is not important. They criticize their critics and unwittingly fall into the same bitter attitude as those they despise.Indeed “legalism has slain its thousands, while liberalism has slain its tens of thousands.” Sadly, both make shipwreck of their faith.If God’s Word is inspired (and it is!), and if God’s Word reveals God’s will (and it does!), then God’s People will take seriously the spirit and the letter of God’s will as it is revealed in God’s Word and by God's Spirit.To neglect separation from the world is folly, but to reject separation from the world is rebellion.
God has joined Holiness of Heart and Holiness of Life together. The Bible says that those who are “made free from sin,” [holy in heart] are “become servants to God.” [holy in life], and they have “fruit unto holiness.” (Romans 6:22).
DOCTRINE AND DISCIPLINE
There are many who suppose that they can divide the doctrines of Christianity from the disciplines of Christian living. It is an error as old as the Gnostics of the First Century. The Apostle John confronted this heresy directly, “If ye know that He is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him.” (1 John 2:29). The Bible nowhere teaches us that those who believe correctly will be saved. But it does say, “He that doeth the will of God abideth forever.” (1 John 2:17).
Right doctrine (orthodoxy) and right practice (orthopraxy) are in God’s word, inseparable. But some are attempting to divide what God has joined together.
PURITY AND POWER
Jesus instructed his disciples to wait in Jerusalem for the “promise of the Father.” He told them that when the Holy Ghost was given they would “receive power.” On the day of Pentecost, as the disciples were in one accord in one place, they were filled with the Holy Ghost.
Peter would later described Pentecost as the day the disciples were “purified by faith.” (Acts 15:8,9).
Was it Power that they were given at Pentecost? Or was it Purity of heart that came with the Spirit? It was both. Christ came to “purify the people with his own blood.” And, He came to empower his people to victory over the world, the flesh, and devil. Where there is no purity, God’s power will be absent. And wherever you discover God’s power working, you will see God purifying His people from all sin.
HOLINESS AND PEACE
The writer to the Hebrews urges, “Follow (pursue) peace with all men, and holiness without which no man shall see the Lord.” (Hebrews 12:14). In Romans we read, “to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.” (Romans 8:6). “For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink, but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.” (Romans 14:17). Indeed without holiness there can be no peace.
HOLINESS AND HEAVEN
Finally, we know that Holiness and Heaven are inseparable. Jesus said, “Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God.” (Matthew 5:8). In writing of Heaven, the exiled Apostle John declares, “And there shall in no wise enter into it anything that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie, but they which are written in the Lamb’s book of life.” (Revelation 21:27).
CONCLUSION
We are fooling ourselves if we suppose that we can divide without consequence that which God has joined together. Every attempt to do so will be met with certain judgment. Lay it to heart my dear reader. Let us not resist the law of God, but rest in the comfort of doing God’s will. “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” (Hebrews 10:21).
JESUS said, “What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” (Mark 10:9). The disciples had asked the Lord about marriage. Christ was clear. It is not possible for a man to divide what God has joined together.
I have been thinking about other things that God has joined together that carnal men are trying to “put asunder” and divide.
THE UNITED STATES AND CHRISTIANITY
Before turning to the Scriptures, we would observe that our great nation was founded on the principles of the Judeo-Christian ethic, with a firm reliance upon the God of Scripture and our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Our Declaration of Independence reads, “All men are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”
Our first President, George Washington said, “It is impossible to rightly govern without God and the Bible.”
John Adams wrote, “The general principles upon which the Fathers achieved independence were the general principles of Christianity…I will avow that I believed and now believe that those general principles of Christianity are as immutable as the existence and attributes of God.”
In his plan for education, Benjamin Franklin insisted that schools should teach, “the excellency of the Christian religion above all others, ancient or modern.”
Patrick Henry declared, “It cannot be emphasized too clearly and too often that this nation was founded, not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religion, but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ. For this very reason, peoples of other faiths have been afforded asylum, prosperity, and freedom of worship here.”
The United States Supreme Court ruled, “America is a Christian nation,” at the end of the 19th century.
Yet at the dawn of the twentieth century, voices began to be heard, seeking to divide that which “God had joined together.” Now liberty has been uncoupled from morality. Rights have been separated from Right. And Privilege is no longer dependent upon Responsibility.
What God has joined together we put asunder at our own risk. Unless there is a great awakening, our liberty, our property, even our very existence is at risk.
THE SCRIPTURES teach us that God has joined together these great truths:
REPENTANCE AND FAITH
Until there is sincere repentance there can be no saving faith. It is impossible to believe that God has truly forgiven us until we have fully repented—literally changed our minds about sin.
After his baptism, Jesus preached, “Repent and believe the Gospel.” (John 1:15).
In Acts 20, the Apostle Paul tell the Ephesian Elders, “I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have showed you, and taught you publicly, and from house to house, testifying to the Jews and Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Acts 20:20,21). See also Hebrews 6:1.
It is our conviction that the reason so few possess the full assurance of faith, is that so few have failed to thoroughly repent of sin—wilful disobedience against the known law of God. Consequently many “profess that they know God, but in works they deny Him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.” (Titus 1:16).
SALVATION AND SANCTIFICATION
In his second letter to the Church at Thessalonica, the Apostle Paul declares, “God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit, and belief of the truth.” (2 Thessalonians 2:13).
To the Corinthians, Paul wrote, “Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. (1 Corinthians 6:9-11).
While we contend that sanctifying grace is able to cleanse away our natural inclination to sin and renew our heart in love, the Scriptures clearly teach that saved men are initially sanctified. In nearly every case that sanctification is not entire, but it is begun in the heart of the regenerated. God can only call a man righteous He has made righteous. He cannot lie.
HOLY HEARTS AND HOLY LIVES
There are some who have confused the effect of holiness (separation from the world, the flesh, and the devil) with the cause of holiness, and in so doing they have entirely missed the heart of holiness (i.e. righteousness, joy, peace, and love). Their bitter, censorious, and harsh critique of those who do not live “by the book” (that book usually being the Church Manual) has turned many away from the highway of holiness.In reaction against those who have accented separation from the world (especially in entertainments, adornments, and lifestyle), there has risen a large contingent of “Anti-Pharisees” who believe themselves to be “Super Saints.”
Like the Gnostics of the First Century they suppose that they know the real truth, and so how they live their lives is not important. They criticize their critics and unwittingly fall into the same bitter attitude as those they despise.Indeed “legalism has slain its thousands, while liberalism has slain its tens of thousands.” Sadly, both make shipwreck of their faith.If God’s Word is inspired (and it is!), and if God’s Word reveals God’s will (and it does!), then God’s People will take seriously the spirit and the letter of God’s will as it is revealed in God’s Word and by God's Spirit.To neglect separation from the world is folly, but to reject separation from the world is rebellion.
God has joined Holiness of Heart and Holiness of Life together. The Bible says that those who are “made free from sin,” [holy in heart] are “become servants to God.” [holy in life], and they have “fruit unto holiness.” (Romans 6:22).
DOCTRINE AND DISCIPLINE
There are many who suppose that they can divide the doctrines of Christianity from the disciplines of Christian living. It is an error as old as the Gnostics of the First Century. The Apostle John confronted this heresy directly, “If ye know that He is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him.” (1 John 2:29). The Bible nowhere teaches us that those who believe correctly will be saved. But it does say, “He that doeth the will of God abideth forever.” (1 John 2:17).
Right doctrine (orthodoxy) and right practice (orthopraxy) are in God’s word, inseparable. But some are attempting to divide what God has joined together.
PURITY AND POWER
Jesus instructed his disciples to wait in Jerusalem for the “promise of the Father.” He told them that when the Holy Ghost was given they would “receive power.” On the day of Pentecost, as the disciples were in one accord in one place, they were filled with the Holy Ghost.
Peter would later described Pentecost as the day the disciples were “purified by faith.” (Acts 15:8,9).
Was it Power that they were given at Pentecost? Or was it Purity of heart that came with the Spirit? It was both. Christ came to “purify the people with his own blood.” And, He came to empower his people to victory over the world, the flesh, and devil. Where there is no purity, God’s power will be absent. And wherever you discover God’s power working, you will see God purifying His people from all sin.
HOLINESS AND PEACE
The writer to the Hebrews urges, “Follow (pursue) peace with all men, and holiness without which no man shall see the Lord.” (Hebrews 12:14). In Romans we read, “to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.” (Romans 8:6). “For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink, but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.” (Romans 14:17). Indeed without holiness there can be no peace.
HOLINESS AND HEAVEN
Finally, we know that Holiness and Heaven are inseparable. Jesus said, “Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God.” (Matthew 5:8). In writing of Heaven, the exiled Apostle John declares, “And there shall in no wise enter into it anything that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie, but they which are written in the Lamb’s book of life.” (Revelation 21:27).
CONCLUSION
We are fooling ourselves if we suppose that we can divide without consequence that which God has joined together. Every attempt to do so will be met with certain judgment. Lay it to heart my dear reader. Let us not resist the law of God, but rest in the comfort of doing God’s will. “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” (Hebrews 10:21).
Saturday, May 29, 2010
MEMORIAL DAY MESSAGE - MAY 2010
In cemeteries all across our nation grieving families have bid farewell to their soldiers, soldiers who paid the ultimate price for our freedom. Who can ever forget the loud report of the soldiers firing the 21 gun salute, and then the bugler playing the mournful tune "Taps." Though there are no official words to the tune, there are some popular lyrics that are rich with meaning:
Day is done,
gone the sun,
From the lake, from the hills,
From the sky.All is well,
safely rest,God is nigh.Fades the light;
And afarGoeth day,
And the starsShineth bright,
Fare thee well; Day has gone,Night is on.Thanks and praise, For our days,'Neath the sun, Neath the stars,'Neath the sky,As we go, This we know,God is nigh.
Though the President of the United States can't make it to Arlington National Cemetery to lay a wreath at the tomb of the Unknown soldier, (he's on vacation in Chicago), let us each one pause to thank the Lord for not only the soldiers who have died defending freedom, but all of our loved ones who've now made the crossing and are safe in the arms of Jesus.
May the devotion of those who have gone before inspire us all to greater faith and deeper commitment to the Cause of Christ, and His Kingdom.
CODE OF CONDUCT
The United States military requires every soldier to uphold this code of conduct:
1. I am an American fighting man. I serve in the forces which guard my country and our way of life. I am prepared to give my life in their defense.
2. I will never surrender of my own free will. If in command I will never surrender my men while they still have the means to resist.
3. If I am captured I will continue to resist by all means available. I will make every effort to escape and aid others to escape. I will accept neither parole or special favors from the enemy.
4. If I become a prisoner of war, I will keep faith with my fellow prisoners. I will give no information or take part in any action which might be harmful to my comrades. If I am senior, I will take command. If not, I will obey the lawful orders of those appointed over me and will back them up in every way.
5. When questioned, should I become a prisoner of war, I am required to give name, rank, service number, and date of birth. I will evade answering further questions to the utmost of my ability. I will make no oral or written statements disloyal to my country and its allies or harmful to their cause.
6. I will never forget that I am an American fighting man, responsible for my actions, and dedicated to the principles which made my country free. I will trust in my God and in the United States of America.
Here is a CODE OF CONDUCT for SOLDIERS SERVING THE BODY OF CHRIST that my Father wrote and delivered:
I.
I am a Christian. I serve in the defense of Christ and His way of life. I am prepared to die for Him.
II.
I will never surrender to the enemy of my own free will. If I am a pastor I will never surrender one of the flock.
III.
If I fall captive to temptation, I will turn to Christ, the sure way of escape. I will aid others to escape. I will never accept compromise to ease the pressure exerted against me.
IV.
I will keep faith with my fellow Christians. I will give no information or take part in any action which might be harmful to my comrades. If I am a pastor, I will take, responsibility to shepherd the flock. If not, I will obey the lawful orders of those appointed over me and will back them up in every way.
V.
When questioned, I will make no oral or written statements disloyal to Christ or the Church or harmful to their cause. I will freely and fully profess my faith, and make every effort to bring my questioners to salvation.
VI.
I will never forget that I am a Christian, responsible for my actions before God, and dedicated to the principles of the Word of God. I will trust God and be true, whatever it costs.
Day is done,
gone the sun,
From the lake, from the hills,
From the sky.All is well,
safely rest,God is nigh.Fades the light;
And afarGoeth day,
And the starsShineth bright,
Fare thee well; Day has gone,Night is on.Thanks and praise, For our days,'Neath the sun, Neath the stars,'Neath the sky,As we go, This we know,God is nigh.
Though the President of the United States can't make it to Arlington National Cemetery to lay a wreath at the tomb of the Unknown soldier, (he's on vacation in Chicago), let us each one pause to thank the Lord for not only the soldiers who have died defending freedom, but all of our loved ones who've now made the crossing and are safe in the arms of Jesus.
May the devotion of those who have gone before inspire us all to greater faith and deeper commitment to the Cause of Christ, and His Kingdom.
CODE OF CONDUCT
The United States military requires every soldier to uphold this code of conduct:
1. I am an American fighting man. I serve in the forces which guard my country and our way of life. I am prepared to give my life in their defense.
2. I will never surrender of my own free will. If in command I will never surrender my men while they still have the means to resist.
3. If I am captured I will continue to resist by all means available. I will make every effort to escape and aid others to escape. I will accept neither parole or special favors from the enemy.
4. If I become a prisoner of war, I will keep faith with my fellow prisoners. I will give no information or take part in any action which might be harmful to my comrades. If I am senior, I will take command. If not, I will obey the lawful orders of those appointed over me and will back them up in every way.
5. When questioned, should I become a prisoner of war, I am required to give name, rank, service number, and date of birth. I will evade answering further questions to the utmost of my ability. I will make no oral or written statements disloyal to my country and its allies or harmful to their cause.
6. I will never forget that I am an American fighting man, responsible for my actions, and dedicated to the principles which made my country free. I will trust in my God and in the United States of America.
Here is a CODE OF CONDUCT for SOLDIERS SERVING THE BODY OF CHRIST that my Father wrote and delivered:
I.
I am a Christian. I serve in the defense of Christ and His way of life. I am prepared to die for Him.
II.
I will never surrender to the enemy of my own free will. If I am a pastor I will never surrender one of the flock.
III.
If I fall captive to temptation, I will turn to Christ, the sure way of escape. I will aid others to escape. I will never accept compromise to ease the pressure exerted against me.
IV.
I will keep faith with my fellow Christians. I will give no information or take part in any action which might be harmful to my comrades. If I am a pastor, I will take, responsibility to shepherd the flock. If not, I will obey the lawful orders of those appointed over me and will back them up in every way.
V.
When questioned, I will make no oral or written statements disloyal to Christ or the Church or harmful to their cause. I will freely and fully profess my faith, and make every effort to bring my questioners to salvation.
VI.
I will never forget that I am a Christian, responsible for my actions before God, and dedicated to the principles of the Word of God. I will trust God and be true, whatever it costs.
ENTIRE SANCTIFICATION DEFINED
Would you not agree that most modern day holiness preachers sell this grace short?
FROM JOHN FLETCHER
Again: we give the name of “Christian perfection” to that maturity of grace and holiness which established adult believers attain to under the Christian dispensation: and thus we distinguish that maturity of grace, both from the ripeness of grace, which belongs to the dispensation of the Jews below us; and from the ripeness of glory, which belongs to departed saints above us. Hence it appears, that by “Christian perfection” we mean nothing but the cluster and maturity of the graces which compose the Christian character in the Church militant.
In other words, Christian perfection is a spiritual constellation made up of these gracious stars, perfect repentance, perfect faith, perfect humility, perfect meekness, perfect self denial, perfect resignation, perfect hope, perfect charity for our visible enemies, as well as for our earthly relations; and, above all, perfect love for our invisible God, through the explicit knowledge of our Mediator Jesus Christ.
And as this last star is always accompanied by all the others, as Jupiter is by his satellites, we frequently use, as St. John, the phrase “perfect love,” instead of the word perfection; understanding by it the pure love of God shed abroad in the hearts of established believers by the Holy Ghost, which is abundantly given them under the fulness of the Christian dispensation.
FROM JOHN WESLEY
22. By what "fruit of the Spirit" may we "know that we are of God," even in the highest sense?
By love, joy, peace, always abiding; by invariable long-suffering, patience, resignation; by gentleness, triumphing over all provocation; by goodness, mildness,sweetness, tenderness of spirit; by fidelity, simplicity, godly sincerity; by meekness, calmness, evenness of spirit; by temperance, not only in food and sleep, but in all things natural and spiritual.
23. But what great matter is there is this? Have we not all this when we are justified?
What! Total resignation to the will of God, without any mixture of self-will? Gentleness, without any touch of anger, even the moment we are provoked? Love to God, without the least love to the creature, but in and for God, excluding all pride? Love to man, excluding all envy, all jealousy, and rash judging? Meekness, keeping the whole soul inviolably calm? And temperance in all things? Deny that any ever came up to this, if you please; but do not say all who are justified do.
FROM BROOKS, SCRIPTURAL SANCTIFICATION
In telling us what this enlargement is, Bishop Foster gives the following definition ordescription of this "higher experience," which, in advance of more elaborate definitions, we adoptas our own:
"What is this higher grace? Some call it holiness; some, purity; some, sanctification; some,perfection; some, maturity. There has been much unseemly disputation over the name as well asmuch fanatical profession concerning the experience, and much crude and unsound teaching as towhat it includes and how it is to be attained, and much ill-tempered criticism.
"It answers all the ends of description to say, it is the perfecting of the soul in love. Love isnot simply the queen of the graces, but the mother of them all -- the all-embracing.
Love is thefulfilling of the law; love made perfect excludes envy, jealousy, pride, and all violent and hurtful tempers and acts; love is reverent, meek, humble, docile, patient, obedient, worketh no ill,fulfilleth all righteousness. Perfect love inspires perfect faith, courage, heroism, self-denial,casteth out all fear ... God fills the soul with his love to overflowing. It thrills with gladness; itexpels impurity. While it reigns, there is no place for evil thoughts, evil desires, evil feelings.Heaven has already come. Can it be permanent at its highest pitch? We think we are safe in saying no, as an emotion. The thrill of love and joy must be intermittent in a life like ours on earth. Otherfeelings must come, and for the time obscure and replace these. But as a principle governing thelife, we are bold to say love may and should abide moment by moment and without alloy."
FROM JOHN FLETCHER
Again: we give the name of “Christian perfection” to that maturity of grace and holiness which established adult believers attain to under the Christian dispensation: and thus we distinguish that maturity of grace, both from the ripeness of grace, which belongs to the dispensation of the Jews below us; and from the ripeness of glory, which belongs to departed saints above us. Hence it appears, that by “Christian perfection” we mean nothing but the cluster and maturity of the graces which compose the Christian character in the Church militant.
In other words, Christian perfection is a spiritual constellation made up of these gracious stars, perfect repentance, perfect faith, perfect humility, perfect meekness, perfect self denial, perfect resignation, perfect hope, perfect charity for our visible enemies, as well as for our earthly relations; and, above all, perfect love for our invisible God, through the explicit knowledge of our Mediator Jesus Christ.
And as this last star is always accompanied by all the others, as Jupiter is by his satellites, we frequently use, as St. John, the phrase “perfect love,” instead of the word perfection; understanding by it the pure love of God shed abroad in the hearts of established believers by the Holy Ghost, which is abundantly given them under the fulness of the Christian dispensation.
FROM JOHN WESLEY
22. By what "fruit of the Spirit" may we "know that we are of God," even in the highest sense?
By love, joy, peace, always abiding; by invariable long-suffering, patience, resignation; by gentleness, triumphing over all provocation; by goodness, mildness,sweetness, tenderness of spirit; by fidelity, simplicity, godly sincerity; by meekness, calmness, evenness of spirit; by temperance, not only in food and sleep, but in all things natural and spiritual.
23. But what great matter is there is this? Have we not all this when we are justified?
What! Total resignation to the will of God, without any mixture of self-will? Gentleness, without any touch of anger, even the moment we are provoked? Love to God, without the least love to the creature, but in and for God, excluding all pride? Love to man, excluding all envy, all jealousy, and rash judging? Meekness, keeping the whole soul inviolably calm? And temperance in all things? Deny that any ever came up to this, if you please; but do not say all who are justified do.
FROM BROOKS, SCRIPTURAL SANCTIFICATION
In telling us what this enlargement is, Bishop Foster gives the following definition ordescription of this "higher experience," which, in advance of more elaborate definitions, we adoptas our own:
"What is this higher grace? Some call it holiness; some, purity; some, sanctification; some,perfection; some, maturity. There has been much unseemly disputation over the name as well asmuch fanatical profession concerning the experience, and much crude and unsound teaching as towhat it includes and how it is to be attained, and much ill-tempered criticism.
"It answers all the ends of description to say, it is the perfecting of the soul in love. Love isnot simply the queen of the graces, but the mother of them all -- the all-embracing.
Love is thefulfilling of the law; love made perfect excludes envy, jealousy, pride, and all violent and hurtful tempers and acts; love is reverent, meek, humble, docile, patient, obedient, worketh no ill,fulfilleth all righteousness. Perfect love inspires perfect faith, courage, heroism, self-denial,casteth out all fear ... God fills the soul with his love to overflowing. It thrills with gladness; itexpels impurity. While it reigns, there is no place for evil thoughts, evil desires, evil feelings.Heaven has already come. Can it be permanent at its highest pitch? We think we are safe in saying no, as an emotion. The thrill of love and joy must be intermittent in a life like ours on earth. Otherfeelings must come, and for the time obscure and replace these. But as a principle governing thelife, we are bold to say love may and should abide moment by moment and without alloy."
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