We Shall Behold Him

WE SHALL BEHOLD HIM

“Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.” - John 17:24

I was listening to a podcast recently. The host was discussing a public event he attended. He mentioned that he was literally just a few feet away from the President of the United States. Most Americans will never get close to a President, regardless of their political views. The President is usually shielded from most citizens by the Secret Service. Yet to be that close to a President is a notable event.

There is a more remarkable event that will occur soon. Our Lord will return. When He comes, we will see Him as He is.

Dottie Rambo was one of Southern Gospel Music's prolific songwriters. In spite of all her great songs, only one received an award. In 1981, her song, “We Shall Behold Him,” won the Dove Award for Song of the Year. The song describes the incredible moment when God's people will see the Lord in all His glory. Seeing a President, an actor or a famous athlete is nothing compared to seeing our Lord. When He comes, we shall behold Him!

When Jesus prayed to His Father in John 17, He said, “Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.” Jesus had us in mind when He said, “... that they also, whom thou has given me ...” Let's note the details of His request for us.

First of all, Jesus prayed that His followers would, “... be with me where I am.” Through Jesus Christ, we have everlasting life. Think about that word, “everlasting.” The life that we have in Christ is spiritual life that lasts forever. Our lives on earth will end very soon, but spiritually, we will continue to live on. In 2 Corinthians 5:8, we are taught that when we are absent from the body, we'll be present with the Lord. We'll be where He is at.

God has designed His own home. It is perfect. It is beautiful. It is magnificent. Yet He invites you and me to dwell there with Him forever.

Furthermore, Jesus prayed that His people, “... may behold my glory, which thou hast given me.” I've heard many songs about the beauty of heaven, but very few about the beauty of Christ that will make it heaven for us.

Moses once prayed, “Lord, show me your glory.” The experience of catching just a glimpse of God's glory greatly impacted his life. Yet the experience that Moses had was incomplete. You see, Moses was permitted to see just part of God's glory. God told Moses that no man could see the face of God and live.

One day, you and I will see the face of God. We will not see him with human eyes. Instead, in glorified bodies, we'll behold the Lamb of God. We won't be asking for His autograph. Instead, we will fall before Him in worship. We'll adore the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

On the mount of transfiguration, the Bible says that Jesus “was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light.” In that moment, Peter, James and John caught a glimpse of something they had never seen before. They saw the glory of God. Notice that the face of Jesus, “... did shine as the sun.” If you look directly at the sun for any length of time, your eyes will suffer permanent damage. Our eyes cannot behold such intense rays of light. How much greater is the light that emanates from the face of the One who created the sun!

In Revelation chapter 1, John saw the Lord. He described our Lord's eyes as, “a flame of fire.” When he saw the Lord, the Bible says that John, “... fell at his feet as dead.” Seeing the Lord in His glory will be more than a thrill, it will be an experience of awe and wonder. I can't help but think that we, like John, will fall at His feet.

Referring back to our text in John 17:24, Jesus said to the Father, “...thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.” From eternity past to eternity future, He is God. Love exists among the Holy Trinity. This is the kind of love we should have for Him … and for each other.

Jesus is coming soon. Maybe today. Are you ready? For the saints, it will a glorious day.

We shall behold Him!

Giving Thanks

GIVING THANKS

“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” - 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Here in America, the fourth Thursday of November is set aside as a holiday known as Thanksgiving. In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln declared the last Thursday in November to be a national day of thanksgiving. In 1941, Congress set the fourth Thursday of November as the permanent Thanksgiving holiday.

Sadly, this holiday has lost a great deal of meaning. For most Americans, Thanksgiving is all about food, family and football. It is sad that few people actually give thanks on the day designated for this purpose.

For the Christian, every day should be a day of thanksgiving. The Scriptures abound with many verses that encourage us to give thanks. Of all people, we have the most to be grateful for. We often make the mistake of using a calculator to tabulate the number of our blessings. We are tempted to think like pagans, believing that the more money and possessions a person has, the more blessed they are. While we should be grateful for finances and possessions, these pale in comparison to other blessings. Our greatest treasures cannot be held in our hands or calculated with a slide rule.

I believe that gratitude is a sign of a healthy soul. According to Philippians 4:7-8, thanksgiving is one of the actions we should take to combat anxiety and worry. Gratitude is a mark of a mature Christian. When we meditate on the blessings of God, our fears and complaints tend to shrink in size. Our faith grows as we consider the great things God has done for us.

I don't consider myself to be an expert on anything, but I will share this with you. In my time of morning prayer, I will often thank the Lord for at least three specific things. It may vary from day to day. I know this seems rather small, but we tend to give thanks generally and not specifically. We will say things like, “Thank You, Lord, for my blessings,” or “I am grateful for everything You do for me.” While there is nothing wrong with either statement, they are rather vague. I think it is good to be specific with your gratitude. If your spouse or boss praised you in front of others, it would mean so much if they listed specific things they appreciated about you. I think we should do the same with the Lord. He has given us specific blessings, so we should thank Him specifically as we give thanks.

First of all, we should thank Him for the past. In the past, He has done great things for us. He demonstrated great patience with us as we lived in sin. He worked in our hearts and showed us our sinful condition. He pointed us to the cross and the redemption provided there. He saved us by His grace and for His glory.

Furthermore, He has blessed us since then. He has taught us great things from His Word. We have grown to love Him more. We have been blessed to know other believers who have invested in our lives. He has answered our prayers. He has met our needs and encouraged us when we were down. He has been good to us!

Secondly, we should thank Him for our current blessings. Today, you awoke to a new day. You didn't deserve a new day, but He granted it to you. You have a roof over your head. You have food on your table. You have a natural family and a church family who love you very much. In spite of all the problems and pain you may be enduring, He is giving you grace to persevere. You are able to breathe. Your heart continues to beat. You continue to have a sane mind. These are blessings you enjoy today!

Finally, we can give thanks for the blessings that are yet to come. This requires faith, but shouldn't we be people of faith? We can thank Him for the promises He will soon keep. The promise of His return. The promise of the resurrection. The promise of heaven and so much more. The best is yet to come! Let's thank Him in advance for this!

We are to give thanks, “... for all things.” Even the bad times have been training experiences. Our tough days have strengthened our faith. Our pain has brought us to our knees so we could seek Him for help. Our grief has given us a desire for heaven, our home. Looking back, we are stronger today than we've ever been because of the storms He's brought us through. Although we didn't enjoy the painful process, we should thank Him for the grace that has sustained us through it all.

Don't be a grouchy church member. Be a grateful saint. Let God and others know how much you appreciate the Lord and all His blessings.

Give thanks for all things.

Amazing Love

AMAZING LOVE

“I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” - John 17:23

The word, “love,” may be the most misused word in our vocabulary. Secular music has often abused the word. Television and movies use this word in shallow ways. “Love,” is a word that some wrongly use as a synonym for lust. Others use the word in hyperbole. We say things like, “I love chocolate ice cream.” Sadly, even in religious circles, the word, “love,” has lost its impact.

Thankfully, genuine love still exists. A good mother loves her children. An honorable man loves his wife. Christians should love each other. In spite of this, we need to be aware that counterfeits do exist, causing a great deal of pain and heartache. Some are weary of “love,” because they have been mistreated by those who've selfishly used the word without having the true commitment that genuine love produces.

Yet we must admit that there are different types of love. The love a man has for his wife differs from the love he has for his children. Yet in both cases, love exists.

In light of all this, we must consider “love” in its deepest form. The Bible says that God is love. Note that the Bible doesn't say that God has love. It says He IS love. Certainly, the Lord has love, but love is the true essence of His being. Our experience of love is due to the fact that our Lord graciously provided such love for humans. He created man to have the capacity to give and receive love.

In John 17, Jesus prays to His Father. During this time of prayer, Jesus intercedes on our behalf. In verse 23, Jesus said, “I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” In this verse, Jesus again prays for His followers to dwell in harmony, just as He and the Father enjoyed such unity. He also knew that such unity would get the attention of the world.

I want us to focus on the last part of John 17:23. Jesus said, “... thou … hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” We tend to think that the Father loves His Son with the highest degree of love and that His love for us is less than this. That is not what this verse teaches. Jesus specifies that the Father loves us with the same degree of love that He loves His Son.

This seems rather scandalous, or even blasphemous, doesn't it? For God to love us just as He loves His Son, seems rather outrageous. How can this be?

First of all, His love is a divine love. Since He is God, His love cannot be fully grasped by our finite minds. Since He is love, He has bestowed enormous love on us. He freely gives such love because it is nature to do so.

Secondly, He loves us because of Christ. We have the righteousness of Christ. We are accepted because of His Son. We have been lovingly adopted into His family. He has received us as His own children. He has set His love on us. The blood of His Son merits His attention. We've been purchased by the Lord Jesus. In salvation, we came to the Father through the Son.

The Bible says, “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” The cross of Calvary is vivid demonstration of God's radical love for us. He gave His Son to purchase our salvation. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

God has lavishly poured out His love on us. We did not deserve such love. We still don't. Our salvation is due to His grace and magnificent love. He has invested heavily in our lives. He continues to love us.

How should we respond to such incredible love? By loving Him in return. John put it this way, “We love him because he first loved us.” It is easy to love someone who loves you. This is certainly the case with our love for the Lord. He has set His love upon us. We are His treasured possession. We are greatly loved and we love Him right back. We enjoy fellowship with Him with great affection.

The Lord knows our flaws, failures, sins and mistakes. He knows the worst about us … and yet still loves us greatly. He is on the throne --- and yet in our hearts. He has the entire universe to govern and yet He makes time for you and me simply because He loves us.

That kind of love is truly amazing.

Glory!

 GLORY

“And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one.” - John 17:22

As Christians, we use the word, “glory,” to indicate many things. On one hand, we refer to heaven as “glory.” Many of our songs and hymns use this description of heaven. The word, “glory,” is also used to refer to praise. We should have a desire to give God glory, that is, our praise. Finally, the word, “glory,” is used to describe the divine perfections of God. That is what Moses wanted to see when we prayed, “Show me your glory.” Psalm 19:1 speaks of this glory when it says, “The heavens declare the glory of God...”

In John 17, Jesus is praying to the Father on our behalf. In verse 22, Jesus said, “And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them ...” What “glory” is Jesus referring to? Obviously, He is not referring to His deity. Jesus has always been divine. This glory was not given by the Father, but eternally enjoyed along with the Father. We have not been made divine ourselves. Although we have been made children of God, the trinity has not been expanded to include us. We are still mortals. We are sinners saved by grace. Thus, the glory that Jesus has given to us is not His eternal, intrinsic perfection.

Certainly, one day you and I will have a home in heaven. Because of the saving grace of God, we have a better place waiting for us. We refer to heaven as “glory,” but this is not what Jesus was referring to either. Heaven was not given to Jesus. It has been, and continues to be, His home. It is the abode of God. While this “glory” awaits us beyond the grave, that is not the “glory” Jesus is referring to John 17:22.

2 Peter 1:3-4 says, “According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” Notice that the promises of God were given, “that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature.”

God has made us partakers of the divine nature --- His glory. No, we are not divine. We still dwell in temporal bodies. We struggle with sinful flesh. Yet because of the saving grace of our Lord Jesus, we've been given a position in His family. We are His children. Hebrews 2:6 says that He “... hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” What a position we enjoy!

Furthermore, the Spirit has imparted to us fruit that mirrors the character of our Lord. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance.” (Galatians 5:22-23).

Additionally, we are being molded to be more and more like Jesus. Romans 8:29 states, “For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.” You see, our salvation was more than a deliverance from hell. It is a transformation of our lives by the power of God.

This glory was described by Paul in Colossians 1:27: “To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Notice that the Bible refers to “the riches of the glory of this mystery.” Too bad that most believers are satisfied to enjoy only part of their salvation without entering in the massive storehouse of God's provision and bask in the riches of His glory.

When the King takes residence in our hearts, He brings His glory with Him. It is one thing to be pardoned by the King, it is even greater for Him to move within and abide there. Christ in us, the hope of glory. That is true glory. The ramifications of our salvation are so massive that it overwhelms the minds of those who focus on it. Too bad that we tend to be too busy to meditate on our great salvation and the God who provided it.

The Lord of glory dwells within the heart of every believer. His glory is made manifest within us so that we may dwell in harmony together, just as He and the Father dwell in harmony. We experience such glory here on earth. Yet how sweet it will be to finally see Him face to face and behold Him in all His glory and splendor. What a day that will be!

Glory!

Holy Harmony

HOLY HARMONY

“That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” - John 17:21

Music is a precious gift from our Creator. Music tends to soothe us when we are troubled. It can comfort us when we are grieving. Music can motivate us when we get discouraged. Although I am not a good singer, I appreciate those who are gifted in this area.

I am a fan of Southern Gospel Music. I love to hear voices in harmony. I even like some classical music, especially when a string ensemble brings a song to life. I thoroughly enjoy hearing musical harmony.

Here's a mistake many make about musical harmony. While they understand the main tune, they think that the others simply sing the notes they want to and somehow it blends. That is not the case. Providing harmony in a song requires that you sing the exact notes that blend with other singers each step of the way.

When it comes to the church, believers should be serving together in harmony. Each person has a specific role, yet his work blends with the differing effort of others. Harmony does not exist in a congregation if everyone is doing what they want to do. Instead, we are called to do God's will. When we follow the notes the Great Conductor has penned for us, true harmony will exist among believers.

That is what Jesus prayed for in John 17. As He neared the end of His prayer, He spoke of us when He prayed, “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” Jesus wants His followers to be as one. Not one in unison, but one in harmony. There are times in choral music that the singers will sing in unison, but most of the time, they sing in harmony. Together as one unit, they sing different notes, but the resulting harmony provides one glorious sound.

That is the way Christians should be. Each believer serves uniquely based on gifts, talents and abilities, yet serving together as one army.

A family may consist of people with diverse personalities and abilities. Yet they come together as one, each providing for the family. One may cook, another may clean, a third may take out the trash, others may contribute financially. Yet they are one family, working together in harmony.

We are part of a spiritual family. Certainly we should work together in a church family, but overall, we are part of the family of God. We are one family, serving one God.

The problem we are facing is that the devil has believers feuding from within. Rather than concentrating on areas of agreement, we prefer to debate about our disagreements. Often our disagreements are in minor areas, but we tend to amplify them into major issues.

The devil enjoys seeing believers bicker about differences. He loves to incite people into jealousy or anger. He wants every church to split, every family to separate and every marriage to dissolve. You see, the devil fears a united army of saints, but he also knows that a divided army is a powerless foe.

Yes, we can have denominational beliefs, but our primary concentration should be on the message of the Gospel. The Gospel changes lives. The devil doesn't mind us talking about minor preferences, but he will fight against a group of believers who are armed with the Word and seek to penetrate their community with the Gospel.

Together we stand. Divided we fall. It is a simple as that. The American church is weak today because we refuse to work together to win souls. We should be pursuing the advancement of the Lord's kingdom rather than our own. Our goal should be total obedience to His will rather than accomplishing our selfish dreams and ambitions.

Jesus prayed for us to be as one. He prayed for us to live and work in harmony. Our harmony should be as unified and strong as the unity between Jesus and the Father. Jesus wants us to be one, “... as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us.” As followers of Jesus, we should seek to live in harmony with each other, emulating the harmony of the Father and Son. Jesus prayed that this would be accomplished, “that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” In a world of turmoil, anger and resentment, Christian harmony exalts the Lord.

Yes, I love the sound of musical harmony. Yet the proper harmony of believers is something that is pleasing to the Lord. It only takes the sour notes of one person to ruin the harmonious sound of a quartet, choir or orchestra.

Don't be a sour-note Christian!

When Jesus Prayed For Us

WHEN JESUS PRAYED FOR US

“Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word.” - John 17:20

John chapter 17 is the longest recorded prayer of our Lord. In this precious chapter of God's Word, we find our Lord personally addressing His Father about matters that weighed heavily on our Savior's heart. Most of His intercession was for His disciples. Yet in verse 20, His focus widens to include us. In John 17:20, Jesus said, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word.”

I am glad that our Lord saw beyond the immediate needs of His disciples. He realized that many would believe in Him through their testimony. Our Lord had invested greatly in the lives of His disciples. Now that Jesus was facing the cross, He knew that it would soon be time for them to minister on their own. The Holy Spirit would be sent to assist them in their ministry.

Yet the message of the Gospel went forth by these men. It spread throughout the local region and impacted many lives across a vast area. Over time, this message would be passed from generation to generation, nationality to nationality, person to person --- until now. Those of us who have experienced new life in Christ are expected to share this message with those around us so that generations to come with be transformed by the same Gospel.

Jesus didn't end His prayer by focusing only on His disciples. Instead, He said, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word.” He prayed for those who would believe on Him through their word. That included the people who got saved in the first century church. It also includes those of us who have been saved in the twenty-first century church.

Just think about it. Before He even went to the cross, Jesus thought of us. Knowing that the Gospel would change lives for decades, even centuries later, He had every believer on His heart. He still does today.

There are certain people I pray for on a consistent basis. These individuals are on my mind. Some of them are family members. Others are members of my church. A few are old classmates from school. I intercede for some of my Facebook friends. When I pray, I take the needs of these individuals to the throne of grace. God hears and answers my feeble prayers.

I am glad when someone says that they are praying for me. I am not sure how many people pray for me. The Lord knows. Yet it is comforting to know that somewhere a precious saint is mentioning my name to the Father.

It is reassuring to know that Jesus prayed for me in John chapter 17. Yet it is even more thrilling to know that Jesus is praying for me right now. Romans 8:34 teaches us, “Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.” Right now, Jesus is at the right hand of God. He is talking with His Father on our behalf.

If you want a job with a company, it helps to know someone in the management of that company, who can put in a good word for you in the hiring process. Right now, we have Someone up on high who is putting in a word for us. While the world brags about “friends in low places,” we have a Friend in the highest of places. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, speaks on our behalf to the Father.

I was on His heart as He prayed in John chapter 17. I am still on His heart all these years later. I am thankful for the fact that Jesus prayed for me.

I am grateful that He is praying for me right now!

Transformed By Truth

TRANSFORMED BY TRUTH

“And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” - John 17:19

How does lasting change really occur? Many books have been written on this subject. There are people who tour the country, giving lectures about this topic. There are men and women who declare themselves experts about life-change. I've read some of these books and heard some of these lectures. Much of it falls in the realm of self-help or self-improvement. Occasionally, someone will say something worthwhile, but much of it is redressing of old stale ideas.

I am not expert on any subject, including this one. Yet I have found that there is a way for a person to undergo profound, lasting change. Eternal change occurs when a person is transformed by the Truth.

In John 8:32, Jesus said, "And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” Many quote this verse without even knowing that they are quoting Jesus. Yet this verse is factual. When a person knows the truth, the truth makes them free. They are transformed by the Truth. Through faith in Christ, a person experiences internal change that reshapes his life and leads him on a different path.

Conversion is just the beginning of this change. When a person is born again, a new life begins. After regeneration, the work of sanctification begins. God continues to work in a man's life, making him more and more like Jesus.

When Jesus prayed to His Father in John 17, He said, "And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” Jesus was set apart to complete a mission for His Father. Jesus expected His disciples to be sanctified. Notice that this sanctification occurs, "... through the truth."

I began by asking the question, how does lasting change occur? The answer is plain. We are transformed by the truth. We are not embracing a fantasy or fiction. Instead, we experience life-change through the power of God's Word. In a previous verse in John 17, Jesus made this statement, "... thy word is truth."

Lives are impacted by the power of the Gospel. As a preacher takes God's Word and boldly proclaims the truth, that word pierces hearts, shatters strongholds of falsehood and brings light to areas of darkness.

We are living in a time when the truth is under assault. Spiritual forces have targeted the truth, trying to remove it from society. The devil has duped many into believing that there is no such thing as truth. Yet as God's Word is proclaimed, either publicly or personally, the truth still goes forth and changes lives.

I don't have the power to change lives. You don't either. While many try to use manipulation to get a response, God-called preachers still use the Bible to call men and women to repentance.

It seems old fashioned to use only one Book, week after week, to reach people. Yet that is our mandate. By the way, it still works, too. Yes, people can commit to something because of emotionalism or manipulation, but only God can radically change a person's heart. He has chosen His Word to do this. He still transforms lives by the Truth.

As believers, we know that we've been changed by the truth. Yet we are still being changed by the truth. That's why Bible reading, Bible study, sound Bible teaching and good preaching is important in our sanctification process.

If I am blessed to see the end of this year, I want to be a Christian at that point than I was back in January. I would want the year to come to be a growing process, also.

That's what the Lord desires for each of His children. He wants us to live holy lives. He expects us to be loving, compassionate and honest.

As I get older, I tend to resemble my parents, not just in appearance, but in my actions, too. Over time, shouldn't my character evolve to be more like my heavenly Father? That process is called sanctification. That is accomplished by the truth of God's Word.

We are being transformed by the truth.

Mission: Impossible

 MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE

“As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world.” - John 17:18

I am not a fan of modern television programs. I prefer the classic TV shows. Do you remember the TV series, “Mission: Impossible”? Young people know about the movie franchise, but some of us older folks recall the original TV series, starring Peter Graves.

Each episode of the old TV series, “Mission: Impossible,” began with the main character getting a tape recording. The recording gave a brief outline of a vital assignment. The episode proceeded with the cast trying to accomplish the mission they were given. In addition to the action-packed episodes, the theme music was among the most memorable TV theme songs of that era.

I'm glad I don't have a job in the field of espionage. Every day life is challenging enough at times. If you're like me, much of life seems to be rather mundane. Daily activities have become a ritual. For us, life does not consist of dangerous adventures. Paying the bills and meeting responsibilities can be enough for us to tackle.

Yet we have been given a mission. Although most of us are not called to go overseas and serve as foreign missionaries, we are called to fulfill a mission. We are missionaries to a fallen world. The world we once enjoyed and loved has become a place that seems very foreign to us. We are citizens of another country, assigned here on earth for a brief period. Although the specific task each believer is assigned may differ, we share common goals.

When Jesus prayed to His Father in John 17, He said, “As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world.” Jesus came to earth on a mission to redeem lost men. He was sent by His Father on a mission of love. Now, His followers are being sent, “I have sent them into the world.”

Our mission is a formidable task. We are called to represent our Lord in this wicked world. Paul put it this way: “Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.” (2 Corinthians 5:20). This verse reveals two things: our mission and our message.

OUR MISSION

We are saved from this world and sent back into the world as ambassadors for Christ. An ambassador is a representative of his home country, sent to a foreign place. He is there to represent his homeland, offer assistance to other citizens who are in that foreign land, and convey messages from his homeland to that foreign country. That is our task as well. We are ambassadors for Jesus Christ. We have been saved for this task. We have been divinely appointed to this position. We are specifically sent to represent heaven and convey God's message. That is our mission.

OUR MESSAGE

Secondly, we learn about our message: “... as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.” We have a powerful message to convey daily. Because of sin, mankind has been separated from God. We do not possess the ability to get to God on our own. Our best efforts are sinfully tainted. It is impossible for a sinner to get right with God based on his own merits. Mankind is doomed for destruction because of sin.

Yet we have good news to bring to fallen mankind. Jesus Christ did for us what we could never do for ourselves. He was sent to earth on a rescue mission. He died on the cross, suffering the wrath that we deserved, so that we could be saved. His death purchased life for every person who believes. Mankind can be reconciled to God, but only through Jesus Christ.

As Ambassadors for Christ, we are on a mission. We have a message. Just as Jesus was sent on a rescue mission to save us, we are being sent to spread His message to dying souls. The very message they need the most is the message we should share.

Let me be very clear about something. We have a daunting task. Our mission is impossible. On our own, we will fail miserably. Although we are sent back into the world, it takes a miracle for our message to change lives. We need the Lord's help in all we do. Our work is impossible without the power of the Holy Spirit. We are dependent on the Lord to accomplish our mission. Our mission is impossible on our own. It is only possible as God works through our lives.

Time is fleeting. Souls are perishing. Workers are few.

Will you heed God's call to live on mission today?

Set Apart

SET APART

“Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.” - John 17:17

Life can seem rather mundane at times. It doesn't matter how long you live or successful you become, we are responsible to accomplish certain routine tasks. These chores are continual duties that never seem to end. These regular chores include washing dishes, doing laundry and paying bills. These jobs never seem to end.

Another task that we must undertake on a regular basis is grocery shopping. It doesn't matter how tired you are the end of the day, you still need to go to the grocery store on occasions. Yet there is a lesson to be learned when you shop for groceries.

If you're like most people, you enter the store and get a shopping cart or basket to get your groceries. Then you go through the process of finding what you need. For instance, if you need tomatoes, you go to the produce department and look for the tomatoes you want. You look through the bin and choose the tomatoes that look best. Then you set aside the ones you want. You store them in a little plastic bag and put them in your shopping cart. Later, when you check out, you pay for the tomatoes. They are yours to use as you wish.

We often set aside items when we shop. Whether you are purchasing fruit or vegetables, you choose the items you want and set them aside to purchase them.

We have been set aside by the Lord. We belong to Him. We are set apart from unbelievers. Being set aside or set apart has a theological term called sanctification.

When Jesus prayed to the Father in John 17, He said, “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.” Jesus was referring to His disciples and us when He spoke these words. He prayed that His followers would be sanctified.

There are three types of sanctification for a believer. First of all, there is positional sanctification. I've already referred to it. The Lord has set us apart for Himself. We've been made children of God by His grace. We are set apart for the Lord. That is positional sanctification.

Secondly, there is practical sanctification. This is His ongoing work in our lives to make us more and more like Himself. We are being sanctified in holiness. He is the Potter and we are the clay. We are being molded into vessels of honor, trophies of His grace. Our sinful blemishes and broken pieces are among the issues He is addressing in this ongoing process.

Finally, there will be permanent sanctification. Ultimately, we will be set apart eternally. The Psalmist refers to this in the first psalm: “Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.”

So how does God accomplish this work of sanctification? In His prayer, Jesus gives us the answer: “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.” The truth sets us apart. We are sanctified through the truth. It is no surprise the devil has targeted this area. In our world, “relative truth,” is the norm. “Relative truth,” teaches that what is true for me may not necessarily be true for you. According to the world, truth is highly subjective and probably doesn't even exist. This is a twisted lie of the devil. The devil has successfully deceived most people into doubting the Word of God. Just as he did with Eve in the Garden of Eden, the devil has people questioning God and His Word.

Yet there is truth. Jesus prayed, “thy word is truth.” While it is obvious that the Bible contains truth, it is more than that. The Word IS truth!

God uses His word to set people apart. It was His Word that convicted us and brought us to a saving faith in Christ. Our positional sanctification is due to His Word. His ongoing work to conform us to Christ is being accomplished as we read, study and apply His Word to our lives. Practical sanctification is being accomplished through His Word. Ultimately, our permanent sanctification will be due to His Word. He will return, as predicted by His Word. The Lord Jesus will come with a shout (1 Thessalonians 4:16). His Word has the power to raise the dead!

We have been set apart for the Lord. We belong to Him. He changed us by His Word at conversion. He is working in our lives, molding us into the people He wants us to be. He is changing us day by day by His Word. One day, He will come again and our bodies will be changed in an instant.

We are set apart by the Lord. We are set apart for the Lord!

This World Is Not My Home

 THIS WORLD IS NOT MY HOME

“They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.” - John 17:16

Home. That four letter word has great meaning to me. Few things bring me peace of mind, clarity of focus and waves of emotion like thoughts of home. The heart longs for the tranquility and love that exists at home. The old expression summarizes it best, “There's no place like home.”

When we think of home, we often go back in time to our upbringing. If you had a happy childhood, you probably have fond memories of the time you spent growing up with your father and mother. That old home-place may not exist now, but it is standing tall and strong in the vivid portrait of your mind. We have such fond recollections about our childhood because we were insulated from many of the world's problems. We did not have adult responsibilities back then. There in the innocence of our youth, strong memories were developed. We often long to return to such a time, even for a brief moment.

As adults, we've worked, saved and invested so we could eventually purchase a home for ourselves. We want to create such memories for our children to experience and enjoy. We tend to relive our youth through the lives of our children and grandchildren. We want our home to be a place that is a safe haven for them, a place that they will cherish.

Home is a place for family. As such, a good local church serves as another home that is special to us. When I was growing up, church attendance was not an option. We were in church every Sunday. I have memories of those days. Many of the saints who worshiped are not longer with us. Yet their spirit and love are still remembered by this author. Church is a spiritual home for believers. At church, lives are changed, hearts are touched and love is shared.

As believers, we have another home. A home that is perfect. It is eternal. This home is a place we call heaven. The temptation is for our roots to grow deep in this world. Yet this world is not our home. Your place of residence is just a temporary home. Your local church is just a home away from home. Our ultimate home is the abode of God, heaven.

When Jesus prayed in John 17, He spoke of His disciples when He said, “They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.” These words are true of us as well. No, we are not of this world. At one time, we were of this world. Our desires, goals and dreams were very selfish and worldly. But when Jesus entered our lives, He changed all of this. Now our permanent residence has been changed to a different country. Our affections have been altered. As we grow in our faith, it becomes more obvious that we don't really fit in this world.

As we see our world spiral into deeper levels of sin and depravity, our stand for truth and righteousness is in glaring contrast to the views of others. More and more, a committed Christian is viewed as “weird.” Back in the 1970's, the phrase, “Jesus Freaks,” was used as a derogatory description of zealous Christians. These days, we are viewed as bigoted, mean and intolerant.

Jesus was not of this world either. He was controversial, misunderstood, and even hated. Ultimately, the religious crowd encouraged the Roman government to execute Jesus. If we love Jesus and live for Him, why should we expect better treatment than He received?

Our job is not to find a way to fit in this world. It is not our mandate to make Christianity, “cool,” “relevant,” or “popular.” Our commission is to proclaim the Gospel in this world. We are not to change it so others will easily embrace the message. Instead, we are to boldly share the message in its fullness. The message will be received by some but scorned and rejected by many.

Also, it is not our job to conform to this world so that we will be more popular. Obviously, we are not be obnoxious either. Rather, we are to be people of integrity and live holy lives in this unholy world. I will never be “Citizen of the Year.” That's okay with me.

Since I am not of this world, I should not expect the world's applause. They are marching to a different beat. They are following a different leader. They are going in an opposite direction.

This world is not our home. Like Jesus, we are not of this world. Our home is in heaven. Our treasures are there. We are not pursuing the accolades of men. We are pursuing a crown. We don't covet the praise of men. Instead, we yearn to hear our Father say, “Well done.”

As I grow older, this world becomes less and less attractive. My thoughts drift toward a perfect place. It's a place I've never been to. Yet it is my home.

Like the old song says, “This world is not my home, I'm just passing through.”

Insulation, Not Isolation

 

INSULATION, NOT ISOLATION

“I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.” - John 17:15

Leonard Ravenhill once said, “The greatest miracle that God can do today is to take an unholy man out of an unholy world and make him holy, then put him back into that unholy world and keep him holy in it.” Study those words carefully.

When Jesus prayed to the Father in John 17, He addressed the issue of living in an ungodly world. Jesus was nearing the cross. The resurrection and ascension would follow. The disciples would be left to face an unbelieving, hostile world. We face the same dilemma ourselves.

The disciples would be entrusted with the message of the Gospel, the future of the church and the spread of Christianity. That's an impossible task. To make things worse, they would be faced with this task while enduring major persecution. So Jesus prayed for them. Of course, the Holy Spirit would also be sent to empower them to accomplish these things.

Knowing the challenges His disciples would face, Jesus prayed, “I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.” Let's consider this request. Jesus prayed about their purpose and their protection.

First of all, Jesus prayed for the disciples, focusing on their purpose. “I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world.” Rather than becoming monks and living a life of isolation, Jesus prayed for them to remain in the world.

At times, it would be tempting to get away from this world, wouldn't it? Like the Psalmist, we feel like saying, “Oh that I had wings like a dove! for then would I fly away, and be at rest.” The problems, pain and persecution we have in this world have us aching for a better life in a better place. There is a better place just ahead for us. In the meantime, we are called to minister where God has planted us. Yes, there is a time when we must “get away,” from everything to get our spirit refreshed and renewed, but we are not called to remain there. Taking a vacation or going on a spiritual retreat is wonderful, but this is not to become our dwelling place. It would be tempting to “feel a call” to do mission work at a beautiful vacation getaway, but that is not normally the case, is it?

We have just a brief period of time to live here on earth. God has called us to be salt and light in this world. He uses common people like you and me to impact the culture with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Thus, we are called to remain here in this world. Don't give up hope. Our Lord is soon returning for us.

Although we are not to live in isolation from the world, Jesus prayed that His disciples would be insulated from the world. Notice how He prayed, “I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.” While He prayed that His disciples would be blessed to fulfill their purpose, Jesus also prayed for their protection. He prayed for His disciples to be insulated, not isolated, from this world.

There is much evil in our world. The devil is a wicked foe, seeking whom he may destroy. The world laughs at our belief that the devil exists. As humans, we tend to overestimate our ability. We also tend to underestimate the devil. So Jesus prayed for the protection of His disciples.

The devil once complained that God had put a hedge of protection around Job. It frustrated the devil that he didn't have unlimited access to Job's life. Although it seems like the devil is very successful these days, we must remember that he has limited power. He is on a short leash. Yet we need divine protection every moment. The devil is shrewd. He is cunning. He doesn't fight fair.

Jesus prayed for the protection of His disciples. We need such security ourselves. The President has the Secret Service nearby to protect him. We have the Spirit within us, the angels around us and a Savior praying for us. What a security team surrounds us!

While it is tempting at times to fly away like a dove, we have a job to do. We are on assignment for the King. We are ambassadors for Christ in a world of moral and sinful decay. God has given us a mission to fulfill.

Let's be faithful until He calls us home.

From Tragedy To Triumph

FROM TRAGEDY TO TRIUMPH

A personal reaction to the assassination of Charlie Kirk

“Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.” - John 12:24

I typically write these blog messages about three weeks or more in advance. This message is an exception. Last week, I posted a message entitled, WHY CHRISTIANS ARE HATED. I wrote that message in the middle of August, but when I posted it online last weekend, I had no idea that we'd be facing a week of great tragedy, spawned by hatred. The message seemed almost prophetic.

This week, Charlie Kirk was shot and killed in front of thousands of young people. Charlie was very outspoken about his political and spiritual views. He related easily with young people. Yet this 31-year old man was gunned down simply because he expressed his views publicly. His death has greatly impacted our nation. He was murdered by a man with hatred in his heart.

Many Christians continue to mourn Charlie's death. A few people have delighted in his death, which shows you the depth of depravity that exists in our nation. Civility is missing from our country. Truth is despised. Truth bearers are targets. This event highlights the senseless hatred and violence that has spread across our land. Charlie Kirk was killed because he shared what he believed.

This whole ordeal doesn't make sense, does it? Some even question why would God permit such a faithful witness to perish like that.

Yet we've never been promised an easy life. We're not immune to tragic events. Little children die of cancer. Promising young people are killed in automobile accidents. Missionaries are martyred. Christians perish in tornadoes.

Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” This verse does not teach that all things are good. There are many things in life that are bad. Instead, this verse teaches us that all things work together for good. Bad things can work together for an ultimate good result.

How can the Charlie Kirk assassination work for good? His precious family is in shock and mourning. His followers are heartbroken. Many are grieving. The devastation is real, deep and personal.

I am not God. I don't know why this situation was allowed to happen. From a human perspective, I am deeply saddened by his death. I can't image the pain his family is enduring.

Yet I know that God is in control. As a follower of Jesus, Charlie Kirk is in a better place. He is doing better than we are. Many thought that Charlie Kirk had a promising future ahead of him. He does. He will abide in the presence of God forever. That's the most promising future any person can experience. For him, this tragedy has turned to triumph.

Jesus said, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.” According to Jesus, a harvest of corn is enjoyed because death occurred to the seed. Most of us want to see much fruit, but we don't want to experience death. We want the product of the harvest without investing in the process.

Perhaps this week's tragedy will awaken many Christians to rise up and boldly take the Gospel to the world. Maybe many will be motivated to get out of their comfort zone and get in the growth zone. Perhaps this will be a rallying cry for the Church to get serious about the Great Commission. It could be that this painful experience may lead to revival here in America.

Yet I want to remind you of something. There was a senseless death that took place long ago. On a hill called Calvary, Jesus was put to death by wicked men. How can anything good come from that?

Well, everything actually hinges on that event over two thousand years ago. Jesus died for our sins. His death was required for us to live. Like a seed of corn that is put in the ground, Jesus died and was put in a tomb. Yet through His death (and resurrection) a great harvest of souls have found mercy and grace. Tragedy turned to triumph when Jesus rose from the dead. Now because of His sacrifice, lost souls can find redemption and eternal life through faith in Him.

As believers, we need remember what 1 Peter 2:21 says, “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps.” We are not called to lead a safe life. We are called to take up our cross and follow Jesus. We are called to obey God, even at great cost to ourselves. There may come a time, like Charlie Kirk, we may have to die for what we believe in.

It is better to die for something worthwhile than to live for things that are worthless.