The Radical Cross

Tomorrow my Men's softball season begins through Harvest Sports. God has blessed me with a great group of new guys and old faces to play so ball on the fields this Spring. I am in desperate need to hit up the batting cages because I am rusty (timing is off at hitting). Nevertheless, I was swinging great while having a good time last week out on the field. The balls we are using this season are lame! They are what I call "masher balls" because they hard to hit due to their softness it accumlates during the game. The best thing this season, however, is the study. We are going through the Life Guide Bible Study series titled "The Cross" by John Stott. John Stott is one of the great Christian theologians, pastor, and biblical author who is know for his book The Cross of Christ. The study should be a great time of spiritual growth with the brothers. I am excited to see what the Lord is going to do in the lives of those in the ministry and on the team. God always shows up to our studies and answers our prayers when we pray together and seek him with a pure heart. The theme of this season is cross-bearing discipleship.

 John MacArthur, my favorite Bible teacher, wisely described the proper context of taking up the cross and following Jesus: "A cross is the willing sacrifice of everything one has, including life, for the sake of Christ. It is something that, like the Lord Himself, a believer must take on himself when it is thrust upon him by the unbelieving world because of his relationship to God." During this season I plan on going through a few books along with the study on the cross. One of the books is A.W. Tozer's The Radical Cross. Here are some of the main points from the small but deep theological exposition on the implications and significance of the cross.

1. The Radical Cross - Its Power

2. The Radical Cross - Its Price

3. The Radical Cross - Its Purpose

4. The Radical Cross - Its Pain

5. The Radical Cross - Its Provision

6. The Radical Cross - Its Paradox

7. The Radical Cross - It's Promise

A.W. Tozer says in this book, "The cross of Christ is the most revolutionary thing ever to appear among men. We must do something about the cross, and one of two things we can do - flee from it or die upon it."

Charles H. Spurgeon said "There are no crown-wearers in heaven who were not cross-bearers here below."

Jesus said concerning being his disciple that you would have to "deny yourself, take up the cross, and follow me" (Mark 8:34). The three necessities of cross-bearing obedience as a faithful follower of Jesus is to die to your old life and image, take up the new life and image in Christ, and pursue the Lord was your Savior and King. I am excited to grow in my commitment to the Lord and gain new insights and refreshing truth about Jesus and what he did for me on the cross at calvary.

Technological Advancement In the Church!

I was reading recently about the ancient days of the church and how they used their "technology" and "educational resources" to grow the church and make disciples. The advancements are amazing when you consider how far we have come. People use to hide the Word, and now the Word is hard to hide. People use to teach Christian education as classes, now Christian education is the sole purpose of colleges (seminaries).

1. Monasteries 500-1300 AD - The church ran away from the public who needed to hear the Gospel and lived in solitary places in the wilderness with the manuscripts of the Scriptures to copy and study on papyrus, animal hyde, and artwork. If anyone wanted the scriptures, you had to be a monk dude, travel insane distances, have cash, and know someone on the inside of the Catholic church.

2. Universities 1300-1800 AD - The academic side of the church blossomed and Christian education became a forefront stamp of being intelligent and poised to be a great figure in nation or local government. Only those who were rich typical received education that was a mixture of philosophy, arithmetic, science, and theology. Massive translations happened during this period to write the Scriptures and publish the Bible in different languages worldwide. This caused a Reformation, one of the most important events in all of church history, and a major split happened between Catholics and Protestants occurred, paving the way for the expansion the Gospel, development of Christian studies, and missionaries to go out to  into the world with the Bible. During this university era, teaching would only happen on campus and if you were not asked or could afford university tuition, too bad, you were out of luck and could not be educated. This caused a massive divide between the educated and uneducated.

3. Seminaries 1800-1900 AD - It was time to establish schools that focused only on educating men to be theologians and pastors in the growing United States of America. Churches began to sponsor men who wanted to be in the ministry and sent them to seminaries to be trained. This took away from the church-based leadership development and caused issues because of the elitism of graduates verses undergraduates who were serving in ministry. Ministry division during the Civil War broke out and seminaries divided on who could go and teach at their institution of Christian education. After the War, things settled down, but the emphasis on seminaries as "cementaries" is still an issue because of the lack of faithful shepherd leaders who go to school to gain an education for a life time of ministry.

4. Church-Based Ministries 1900-2000 AD
        A. Small Group Movement - Minimize the large church into a small church community of fellowship.
        B. Discipleship Movement - Make solid disciples verses decisions through expository preaching.
        C. Conference and Seminar Movement - Special gathering on biblical topics to defend, equip believers.
        D. Technology Movement - Sermons and books on Podcasts, iTunes, iPad, E-mails, YouTube.

Today we have so much technology we do not know how to deal with all of it. Starting a church and getting out information is easier than it has ever been before in the history of mankind. Churches are now able to make small groups more effective because of the availability due to technology. The best news, however, is that Christian education is available to everyone every day 24/7. The internet, iTunes, radio, and other technology provides opportunities to hear the Word!

Personal Transformation

The Apostle Paul had a personal transformation. We know this because he tells us this in the letter to the churches in Galatia. The book of Galatians is a clear exposition on justification by faith. It is the Gospel that transforms. The message of eternal life permeates a radical life-altering transformation from death to life. Paul understood this and told the Galatians he has been made a new creation in Christ.

Galatians 2:20 says, "I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. I live my days by faith in the Son of God, who loves me and gave his life for me."


Paul was "crucified with Christ". Interesting to note, the Greek tense for the verb " crucified" conveys a continual transformation. Luke's Gospel says that we are "take up our cross daily," which has a similar Greek tense that means a continual self-denial of the flesh and taking up a spiritual identity with the cross of Christ (cf. Luke 9:23). The radical calling is a change from an old lifestyle to a new lifestyle. One that was dead in sin to a life that is alive in salvation. Paul lost his old life and counted as rubbish (Philippians 3:8). He examined his life daily by a personal reflection. Paul changed from Saul of Tarsus, who murdered Christians, into the Apostle Paul who multiplied Christians. Through his personal reflection of who he use to be and who he was in Christ, it provided for him a Christ-like identification. Personal reflection in Christ provides a Christ-like identification.

The Apostle Paul said that "Christ lives in him." Every day Paul lived in the Spirit. He had Jesus Christ dwelling in his life, which is the hope of glory for all believers (cf. Colossians 1:27). Christ is manifested in believers lives, and gives them a new "imago dei" [image] in Christ with a regenerated and renewed lifestyle in righteousness and holiness. Paul understood this lifestyle and he made it public with all those who saw him.

Doctrine 4 - Incarnation of Christ

Doctrine 4 - Incarnation of Christ
Jesus Christ is the incarnate, visible representative of God in the flesh, who was born of a virgin woman, lived a humbled, mortal and human life as all earthly beings, suffered a painful death, was buried in a grave to signify his execution, and rose again on the third day, bodily, to prove he was fully man.

The Identity of Jesus’ Humanity
What is the difference from his deity?

1. Divine nature – Eternal attributes of God.
2. Human nature – Earthly attributes of a human.

Why is this important?
The Incarnation of Jesus Christ is foundational to the Christian faith because if Jesus was just Divine, then he could not die. God cannot die because he is eternal. However, if God becomes flesh, he becomes mortal and can die. And if he becomes mortal, he can live a righteous life. Jesus in his humanity fulfilled the law by living a sinless life in order to provide a righteous sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins.

“Jesus was like us in every respect but one: he was without sin. Jesus had to be fully human to serve as our perfectly obedience representative. Just as Jesus had to be human to live in our place, he also had to be human to die in our place.” – Dr. Wayne Grudem

There are several main streams of evidence that prove Jesus was a Man.

1. Old Testament portrays the Messiah as a Man.
A. Isaiah 7:14 says, “…Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.”

B. Isaiah 9:6 says, “Unto us a child is born. Unto us a Son is given…”

The prophecies regarding the Messiah expressed that he would have a human nature and live as a mortal being. Jesus was prophesied to be a Man!

2. The Gospels portray Jesus Christ as a Man.
A. Virgin Birth – Born as a human.
(Matt. 1:18; 2:11, 21; Luke 2:6-7, 16; John 1:14; Gal. 4:4)

B. Herod’s Census/Escape to Egypt – Fled because of threat on human life.
(Matt. 2:13, 16)

C. The Visit by the Wise Men – Looking for a boy who is King.
(Matt. 2:2, 11)

D. Childhood Growth – Developed skills as all children.
(Luke 2:27, 34, 40, 43, 51, 52)

E. Baptism by John the Baptist – Bodily immersed in water by John’s own hands.
(Matt. 3:13-17)

F. Social Interaction - Publicly known as just a man.
(Luke 4:16; John 7:14-15; John 8:6)

G. Physical Infirmities – He had physical and emotional characteristics that all humans have.
(Matt. 4:2 hungry, John 19:28 thirsty, Matt. 8:24 sleeps; Matt 23:37 & John 11:35 cries, Hebrews 2:18 tempted)

H. Jewish Trial – He was condemned because he was a man claiming to be God.
(Matt. 26:61)

I. Roman Trial – He was identified as an innocent man by Pilate.
(Matt. 27:19)

J. Death at the Cross – He died a physically painful human death.
(Matt 27:50, Mark 15:37, Luke 23:46)

K. Bodily burial in tomb – He was physically buried as a dead man.
(Luke 23:50-55)

L. Bodily Resurrection – He rose again in the same human body.
(Luke 24:15-17; Luke 24:36-43, John 20:24-28)

M. Bodily Ascension – He ascended to heaven in his glorified body.
(Acts 1:9-11)

3. The Apostles portrayed Jesus as a Man.
A. He has the title of being a Man.
(1 Timothy 2:5-6)

B. He was a perfect example of a Man.
(Philippians 2:5-8)

Jesus was like us in every way, however, he was sinless. This separates Jesus Christ from all other human figures on earth. Jesus Christ was the perfect, obedient, and righteous Man who lived.

A. He knew no sin. (2 Corinthians 5:21)
B. He was tempted but did not sin (Hebrews 4:15)
C. He alone was not a law violator, but lived a perfect life in obedience to the law to atone for our sins (Romans 5:15-21)

Wrapping Up.
1. Deepen your understanding and grow in the knowledge of the love of Christ, and how he came to this earth, from eternity, to take his life for our place so we could have salvation!

2. Embrace the glorious message of the gospel in you hearts to live more like Jesus! We were saved to life, therefore we should live to serve.

3. Remember the words of Jesus when he said, “The Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and give his life a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45)

The Causality for Following Jesus

Why do Christians follow Jesus Christ? Following someone means your their disciple. A disciple lives in such a way that mimics their mentors teachings, lifestyle, and example to others. Christians, however, have a mentor named Jesus Christ, who lived a law-fulfilling, humbled life and died a substitutionary death for their sins. Therefore, an exemplary sacrifice delivers a cognitive appropriateness for conversion, and provokes a pursue to follow after the One who died for them. Jesus died for our sins, so we can die to our sins in order to be more like him. The best definition of why Christians follow Jesus is because of his love for them. He loved them and willingly died for them in order to redeem their souls from everlasting separation, wrath, and judgment. The Apostle John summed it all up perfectly in his first epistle when he said, "In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. We love him because he first loved us."

Unworthy Arguments by Believers for the Defense of Scripture

I was listening to this sermon on the truth of Scripture and was mediating on what Christians should NOT say and what they should say when trying to defend their faith. Believers need to use worthy arguments from Scripture when defending their faith. Unworthy arguments only open the door for logically follies and complicated debating that is always ends in circular reasoning. Therefore, do not give a weak answer for your faith, but have a good, solid defense, based solely on Scripture to prove the trustworthiness of the Bible and Christianity.

The Apostle Peter completely understood this principle and penned this statement in 1 Peter 3:15 that says, "But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear."

Here are three arguments that believers should NEVER say when trying to defend the Bible:

1. Uncertain-Translation Argument - The Bible has so many translations that we do not know how correct Scripture is but I believe it is the Word of God.

2. Born-into-Religion Argument - The Bible was what I was raised up with from birth so I believe it.

3. It-Works-for-Me Argument - The Bible worked for me when I tried to live by it and I am sticking to it.

Here are three arguments from the Bible that believers should ALWAYS say when trying to defend the Bible:

1. 2 Peter 1:16-21 - The word is authored by God

2. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 The word is inspired by God

3. John 17:17 The word is declared truth by God

Thoughts on Unity - Psalm 133

In my experience doing discipleship groups in high school ministry and leading small groups in men's sports ministry, I have noticed a common thread that generates growth in others. Everyone wants to have friends, be recognized, and feel appreciated. In these groups, however the theme of being together for a long period of time opens a reality of closeness and friendship. Therefore, the common thread is the longing experience every believer wants to have through the unity of the brethren.

Psalm 133:1-3, "Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity! It is like the precious oil on the head, running down on the beard, on the beard of Aaron, running down on the collar of his robes. It is like the dew of Hermon, which falls on the mountains of Zion! For there the Lord has commanded the blessing, life forevermore."

This unity in Psalm 133 has been given to us through the Holy Spirit. In the New Testament, Paul explains in Colossians 1:27 that "Christ in you, the hope of glory" resides in the believer and brings everyone together (Jew and Gentile). It is the indwelling Spirit of Christ that unites all believers together in a not of this world fellowship. It opens the eyes of all believer that they all have something in common. Through this continuity, spiritual growth occurs. Proverbs 27:17 tells us "iron sharpens iron" just as a friends encourages ands strengthens one another. May we grow when we fellowship with one another in the faith!

Leadership Distinctives - Preparing the Soil

Jeff Jones writes in his co-authored book with his seminary graduates The Leadership Baton, that there are several essential "cultivating principles" to develop a culture in the church where growing leadership can prosper and succeed. The first one is to "prepare the soil" which is the solid foundation from which all leadership develop will blossom. They say that churches who take this radical approach to develop leadership is more difficult than bring in leadership or shipping out people to become leaders. They argue the churches that do this will be more fruitful and build stronger "core values of leadership development into their church culture."

After establishing a biblical template, there are some practical things that are necessary to do.

1. We must put on the eyeglasses of potential - see people in which who they can become.

2. We must tear down the idol of valuing excellence - use people who are available, not just academically equipped.

3. We must pass on a baton - give people the opportunity and responsibility to become future leaders.

4. We must develop leaders from where God planted them - develop people in your own church to be leaders.

5. We must prioritize a lifelong learning process - lead people for constant growth for the rest of their lives. If you will grow, they will grow.

Blessed = Happy : Thoughts on the Sermon on the Mount

After this Sunday's message by Pastor Greg at Harvest on the Beatitudes, I was thinking about its implications to my spiritual life presently during this time of difficulty in the Inland Empire as the economy continues to plummet, and unemployment rises. Also, I was comparing it to other great speeches and works of history. Nothing can compare to the intellectual, social, and moral teachings within the Sermon on the Mount.

The Sermon on the Mount is the Greatest Sermon in History.
The Beatitudes are the beginning of Jesus' teachings in the most famous sermon of all human history, the Sermon on the Mount. The historical fame of the Sermon on the Mount over the centuries is impossible to compare. In American history, the Declaration of Independence is very influential and famous, which states, "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." This changed the North American world and created a new national identity for people to live in freedom (in what is now the United States of America). More recently in the cultural revolution days of the sixties and seventies, the serious impact of Martin Luther King's speech I Have a Dream shifted cultural barriers and is remembered as one of the most significant and influential speeches for the good of humanity. These two types of reforms were influential and changed the course of their country and the way people thought about others and themselves.

The Sermon on the Mount, however, is the most revolutionary and transforming teaching every taught. It has impacted thousands of people over 2000 years of history, and the relevancy of the fundamental teachings by Jesus are literally not of this world. No one could ever teach with such authority, conviction, morality, and truth. This sermon has endured and possesses life altering and life changing power because those who are doers of the Word find happiness, because the teachings encompass a passion for holiness and dependency on Christ. It transforms lives more powerfully than the Declaration of Independence and Martin Luther King's speech I Have a Dream because it is a sermon by God himself. God incarnate, Jesus Christ the Son of God, spoke these words in which shatters the self-righteous, personal-pleasure, and narcissistic hope to have a good life on your own. The Sermon on the Mount purges the hearts of all men and conveyed a reality that defied all moral teachings and philosophy. Therefore, if you cling to any other influential historical writings, or moral teaching and philosophy, you will never find absolute happiness. Absolute happiness is found in absolute holiness. Absolute holiness is found in absolute truth. The words of Christ are these things, "Sanctify them by your Word. Your Word is truth" (John 17:17). The Sermon on the Mount begins with Jesus saying "Blessed are" those who do these things. In the Declaration of Independence, however, you will never find such Divine institution of blessedness because it was written for the governance of a nation. If you cling to civil right speeches, you will not be happy because of the constant divide against those who the speech is against, and there will be no rest while fighting for such a cause, even if it is a good cause. Happiness truly does rests in the Sermon on the Mount. The teachings pile-drive and suplex the applauded good works of man because it was written for the greater good of all those who believe in order to be satisfied in Christ through redeeming happiness and eternal blissfulness. The Sermon on the Mount is the greatest sermon in history because it was given to us by Jesus who is the greatest Person in history.

Blessed = Happy.
The beginning of the Sermon of the Mount starts with the Beatitudes. These are attitudes that we ought to have as Christians. They begin with us emptying ourselves of all self-sufficiency and be filled with total dependency on the Lord. The first four are about our relationship with God, and the last four about our relationship with others. Here are the eight beatitudes by Jesus:

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 5:4)

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. (Matthew 5:5)

“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. (Matthew 5:6)

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. (Matthew 5:7)

“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. (Matthew 5:8)

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. (Matthew 5:9)

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. (Matthew 5:10)

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 5:11)

Based on the authority of Jesus Christ and the Scripture, if you do these things, you will have a happy life. I have done these things personally, and when I remember these gospel-centered principles, I find myself happier than I could ever possibly imagine in the world of uncertainty and emptiness. I am excited to hear part two on the beatitudes by Pastor Greg next week!

Lesson's From Baseball for Eccelsiology?

I just read this interesting article of a 9 point series by Mark Driscoll on "Lesson from Baseball." He extracts truths from managing baseball teams and attempts to relate them to the church. I think that they are a true stretch, but there is some typology to biblical ministry with some ramification. It is imperative to point out that Driscoll is not saying that this is exactly how the church runs as an organization, but that there are some principles behind how MLB teams run and manage their teams is similar to how churches manage and run their church. The pastoral administration and ministry leaders all need to be the right players with appropriate contracts to make a winning team. Check it out below on the link!

http://theresurgence.com/series/leadership-lessons-from-baseball

Four-fold Leadership Building Blocks

I have started reading a book on making disciples called The Leadership Baton: An Intentional Strategy for Developing Leaders In Your Church. There was an example at the beginning of the book talking about a certain method of the early church and how they did ministry. They called it the Pauline cycle. The "Pauline cycle" of discipleship based off of the Great Commission.

1. Evangelize = Preach the message and gather the converts into local churches.
2. Establish = Ground new believers in the essentials of the faith.
3. Equip = Develop godly leaders to teach the church.
4. Expand = Send out others to preach the message and start new churches.

Can You Prove the Bible Scientifically?

In all seriousness, the question most skeptics, atheists, and intellectuals ask regarding the truth of Scripture is summed up in a statement like this: "I will believe the Bible if you can prove it to me scientifically." There is a huge problem with this statement because it is impossible to prove the Bible scientifically in the structural process of gathering information through the Scientific Method. It is an illogical statement. The Scientific Method cannot prove the Bible to be true because the Bible is a collection of ancient and historical writings.

Scientific Method demands three things to prove things scientifically true:
1. It has to be Observable.
2. It has to be Measurable.
3. It has to be Repeatable.

There are major errors in trying to assimilate some type of argument to prove the Bible scientifically. Science discoveries were declared in the Bible before they were recorded in history, however, that does not prove that the Bible scientifically because the Scientific Method cannot prove the Bible.

The Scriptures are history, and therefore history cannot be observable because it has already passed (over 3500-4500 years of total history!). So we cannot go back and observe the things in Scripture to try and see if it happened.

Secondly, history is not measurable. The Scriptures cannot be measured because there is nothing else to measure them against during their time in history to prove their trustworthiness. Today, we have manuscripts to back up the evidence that supports the overwhelming declaration of truth in the Bible (over 5,600 manuscripts!).

Lastly, history cannot be repeatable because it only happens once. The Scriptures can never be "re-invented" or "re-written" to prove it's scientific validity. Therefore, the Bible cannot be proven by science in the Scientific Method because the Scientific Method fails miserably at attempting to disprove and affirm the Scriptures as truth! Science fails at testing things through logic, reason, and truth. Logic, reason, and truth are the friends of Scripture that are infused in the Word by the supernatural inspiration of Scripture.

GO! Thoughts on Making Disciples in Jesus Name...

The Great Commission means to "GO." However, it requries to go in a biblical way. All believers who want to go do ministry for the glory of Christ need to be mature and strong in their faith and love in Him.

Matthew 28:19-20, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Note the language. There is ONE imperative in the Greek and that is "make disciples." It is followed by three particles "go, baptizing, and teaching." The NET Bible textual notes put it like this:

"Go…baptize…teach' are participles modifying the imperative verb 'make disciples.' According to ExSyn645 the first participle (πορευθέντες, poreuqentes, 'Go'). This means that semantically the action of 'going' is commanded, just as “making disciples' is."

Here are some thoughts I have considered when it comes to doing ministry. It takes a lot to GO in Jesus name and make disciples. It is a serious life giving effort for the cause of Jesus Christ and him crucified. However, every believer is called to do it. Some do missions, and others are mothers. Many are deacons, and others are dads. Every pastor makes disciples, and so are all believers. The first thing a believers needs in order to go is a deep relationship with Jesus, grounded on God's platform of truth in the Word of God.

1. To GO requries being a disciple of Christ.
2. To GO requires being a person of prayer.
3. To GO requires being a person of faith.
4. To GO requires being a doer of the Word.
5. To GO requires being a Spirit-filled leader.
6. To GO requires being a uncompromising leader.
7. To GO requires being a servant and shepherd leader.
8. To GO requires being a witness for the return of Christ.

Doctrine 3 - Deity of Christ

Seven: The 7 Most Foundational Doctrines for a Solid Faith
Here are some notes from doctrine 3. Enjoy and feel free to use anything with anyone to share the Truth!

Introduction.

SOUND DOCTRINE!

Why are we studying doctrine?

Titus 1:9, “holding fast the faithful word as he has been taught, that he [you] may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict.”
1. To know our faith.
2. To grow in our faith.
3. To defend our faith.

What is a doctrine?
A specific teaching is called a “doctrine” (Gk. “didaskalia”) which is a particular teaching contained in the Word of God that consummates the definitive vitality of the Christian faith.

Doctrine is the essential and fundamental beliefs in order to be Christian.
Doctrine is the foundational beliefs about Jesus Christ and to be a Christian.
Doctrine is for every believer in order to live biblically and Christ like to teach others God’s holy truth. Doctrine is taught, instructed, and commanded in the Bible for God’s glory and our greater good.


Doctrine 3 - deity of Christ
The divinity of Jesus


The most essential thing to understand in the world is the biblical view and interpretation of Jesus as the Son of God and Savior of the world.

Where Can Someone Find Jesus? In the Bible!

Who Is Jesus in the Bible? [3 quick facts]
1. Jesus is identified as the Main character in all of the Bible. (cf. Luke 24:27, John 5:39)
2. Jesus is heralded as the Messiah to save his people from their sins. (cf. Luke 2:11, John 20:31)
3. Jesus is poised as the Master who is always in control and accomplishes his purpose. (cf. John 17:2-4)

Jesus is the central figure in all the Bible. It is impossible to ignore the burden of proof that Jesus existed, lived, and died in a unique way according to the Bible. Therefore, the Bible must be the primary source for all relevance pertaining to the quest for the historical Jesus. Over history, however, people have disagreed on who is Jesus. Therefore we have to answer the age old question, “Who is real Jesus?”

Trying to Find the Real Jesus.
Who is the real Jesus? Many people have different views of Jesus.

The quest for the historical Jesus [3 views]:
1. The Scholarly View
A. Cynic-like Philosopher – Jesus the hippy
B. Spirit Person – Jesus the charismatic
C. Social Revolutionary – Jesus the zealot
D. Eschatological Prophet – Jesus the judge

2. The Secular View
A. Sage – Jesus the magician
B. Humanitarian – Jesus the activist
C. Moral Teacher – Jesus the peacemaker
D. Homeboy – Jesus the dude
PROBLEM! = These two views express Jesus as purely humanistic without any divinity. 

3. The Scriptural View 
A. Messiah – SON OF GOD!
NO PROBLEM! = This view teaches Jesus was God in the flesh and was fully God and man.

The 21st century evangelical church is being challenged more about Jesus than every before because of the new tactics people are using to try and distort, discredit, and diminish any biblical identity of Jesus as the true Son of God.


According to Lee Strobel’s The Case For the Real Jesus, there are six challenges why people do not see Jesus correctly (these are their new excuses):

1. “Scholars are uncovering a radically different Jesus in ancient documents just as credible as the four gospels.”

2. “The Bible’s portrait of Jesus can’t be trusted because the church tampered with the text.”

3. “There are new explanations to refute Jesus’ resurrection and the examination of the cross.”

4. “Christianity’s beliefs about Jesus were copied from pagan religions.”

5. “Jesus was an imposter who failed to fulfill the messianic prophecies.”

6. “People should be free to pick and choose what they want to believe about Jesus.”

ALL OF THESE NEW CHALLENGES FOR THE REAL JESUS ARE NOT CONSTITUTED ON ANY SCRIPTURAL EFFICIENCY, BUT RELY ON SOURCES OUTSIDE THE BIBLE TO EXPLAIN WHO JESUS WAS INSIDE THE BIBLE! THIS IS NOT LOGICAL!


Where can we find the real Jesus? In the Word of God!
Discovering the Real Jesus can only be found in his autobiography – The Four Gospels.
Matthew – Jesus as Messiah, the fulfillment of Old Testament hopes.
Mark – Jesus as Suffering Son of God, who offers himself as a sacrifices for sins.
Luke – Jesus as Savior for all nations and people groups.
John – Jesus as the eternal Son of God, the self revelation of God the Father.

The Identity of Jesus’ deity is demonstrated and boldly observed in the Gospels. The Gospels provide such overwhelming evidence about Jesus and who he claimed to be.

Jesus Christ proved his identity in four kinds of acts that he was the eternal Son of God.

1. Prophecy Fulfilled 
(Matthew 1:22-23 born of a virgin, 2:5 born in Bethlehem, 2:15 fled to Egypt, 2:17 inn is full, 2:23 home town in Nazareth, 3:3, 4:13 live in Capernaum) [19 total fulfilled in Matthew!]

2. Authoritative Teaching
A. Matthew 7:28-29 sermon on the mount
B. Mark 1:27-28 his preaching
C. Mark 2:1-3:6 teaching
D. John’s seven “I AM” statements

3. Mighty Deeds
A. Exorcisms (Mark 5:1-20)
B. Healings (restorations John 6:16-21)
C. Rising people from the dead (John 11)

4. Nature Miracles
A. Jesus feeds the 5000 & 4000 (Mark 6, 8)
B. Jesus calms the Sea (Mark 4:35-41)
C. Jesus walks on Water (Mark 6:45-52)
D. Jesus turns water into wine (John 2)

So what does the rest of the New Testament say about Jesus?
New Testament Christology: 

(John 1:1-3, 8:58, 10:30; Philippians 2:5; Colossians 1:15-20, 2:9; Hebrews 1:1-3)

Paul understood who Jesus was!
Hypostatic Union – This teaching is the dual nature of Christ - fully God and fully man. Therefore, Jesus in his Sonship as the only begotten from the Father is essentially God and contains the fullness of God in deity, while at the same time was a man who walked on the earth just like us. If he is the fullness of deity, then he has God's attributes:
A. Eternal attributes as God. 

B. Equal attributes as God.

Wrapping Up.
Why is it important to know the deity of Christ?
A. Because if Jesus was just a man, then it would be just another man dying. If he was a God-Man, as he claimed, then he can die a righteous and eternal sacrifice that can provide atonement.

Why do we need to know the deity of Christ?
A. It is essential! It is essential because our faith rests in his deity. Our faith is founded upon Jesus as the eternal Son of God who came, died, was buried, rose again, and ascended to the right hand of God the Father in heaven, who we wait for to come!

Why do we have to embrace the doctrine of the deity of Christ?
A. Because of “Immanuel” – God with us!
B. Because without it, we would be dead in our sins because he would not of risen as the Son of God!
C. So we can understand the reality of the truth in Jesus Christ and share the wonderful news of our glorious God who loved us while we were yet sinners and died for us.

Doctrine 2 - Inspiration of Scripture

Seven: The 7 Most Foundational Doctrines


The Bible is the written revelation of God, published by holy men inspired by the Holy Spirit, to canonize the very Word of God to all of mankind for the eternal purposes of knowing God through his Son Jesus Christ.

“We affirm that a confession of the full authority, infallibility, and inerrancy of Scripture is vital to a sound understanding of the whole of the Christian faith.  We further affirm that such confession should lead to increasing conformity to the image of Christ.  We deny that such confession is necessary for salvation.  However, we further deny that inerrancy can be rejected without grave consequences, both to the individual and to the church.”


-The Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy
Articles of Affirmation and Denial, Article XIX.


Doctrine 2 - Inspiration of Scripture
The Word of God is Truth


Evangelicals have three main beliefs about Scripture. Let's dig into our Bibles and find out what these very important Scriptures say about God's Word:


1. Inspiration - Truth in Text
(The Word is inspired and authored by God and written down by men of God)
2 Timothy 3:16-17 God inspired.
Nehemiah 9:13, God instituted.
2 Peter 1:16-21 God authored.
2 peter 3:15-16 God published.


2. Inerrancy - Truth in Translation
(The Word is perfect and without errors)
Psalm 119:160 all Scripture is truth in Old Testament.
John 17:17 all Scripture is truth in New Testament.
Psalm 12:6 pure words.
Psalm 18:30 proven words. 
Psalm 19:7-9 perfect words.


3. Infallibility - Truth in Totality
(The Word is sufficient and complete from Genesis to Revelation alone) 
Psalm 18:30 no other words. 
Deuteronomy 4:2-12:32 no other law.
Proverbs 30:5-6 no other Scripture. 
Galatians 1:8 no other gospel. 
Revelation 22:18-19 no other Revelation.

Wrapping Up.
1. Knowing God’s Word is truth, we are to embrace it as the only means of authority to govern our lives through Christ.


2. Knowing God’s Word is perfect, we should embrace the profound wisdom and simplicity to establish our lives through Christ.


3. Knowing God’s Word is complete, we need to embrace the sufficiency of the Scriptures to be satisfied in our lives through Christ.

Doctrine 1 - Creation

Doctrine 1 - Creation
To properly understand the correct doctrine of creation, we must first observe the other views of creation in the world.

There are three major categories:
A. Materialist – View of creation in which elevates matter as the only thing eternal (e.g. physical energy, 1st law of thermodynamics). There are those Materialists who believe a God created matter, and there are those who believe matter was never created but always existed, denying the existence of a Creator/God.
PROBLEM: This view suggests there is no reason for a Creator, humans are not immortal or uniquely designed, and all matter is eternal that never had a beginning?

B.  Pantheist – View of creation in which all creations comes out of God believing only the mind and spirit are true, and all matter is just nirvana (i.e. a dream). Everything was not made by God but made out of God, and therefore man treats all living things as God and strives for inner enlightenment through the mind and spirit to reach enlightenment as God, from which they were created.
PROBLEM: This view suggests there is no difference between a Creator or God, humans are initially God, the world is imaginary, and there is no eternality between Creator and Creation?

C. Theist – View of creation in which all creation was created by one God out of nothing. This is the belief by the three monotheistic (only one God) religions in the world – Islam, Judaism, Christianity.
NO PROBLEM!

“Materialists believe in natural generation, pantheists believe in eternal emanation, but only theists believe in supernatural creation.” - Dr. Norman Geisler

What is the doctrine of Creation?
The doctrine of creation is the view of creation which is purely theistic (the belief in one God, creating the universe and everything in it, out of absolutely nothing).

According the Bible, the doctrine of creation is the belief that the Triune God [the Godhead of the Father, Son, Holy Spirit], together in Oneness, created the entire universe by the utterance of a sovereign spoken words, creating the entire earth and its inhabitants and saw that is was good and righteous, which including water, land, vegetation, animals, and mankind in his glorious image, specifically in six twenty-four hour days, resting on the seventh day, sanctifying it to be a day to remember such a divine design.

Psalm 33:6, 9 says, “By the LORD’s decree the heavens where made; by a mere word from his mouth all the stars in the sky were created. For he spoke, and it came into existence, he issued the decree, and it stood firm.”

“Creation had a beginning, the nothing out of which God created was absolutely nothing, the creation out of nothing is not creation by nothing, which proves there is a source (God), content (heaven, earth, and all living things), method (his spoken word), time (establishing time and space), and purpose (God’s goodness and glory) of creation.” - Dr. Norman Geisler

Nevertheless, there are two views of the doctrine of Creation. There is a biblical view and a non-biblical view that denies the claims, testimonies, and veracity of the Holy Scriptures and the creation account and the existence of a Creator.

First, lets examine the biblical view of creation, then we will see what is the non-biblical view or creation.

Biblical View of Creation
There are four main truths that make the doctrine of creation is foundational:

1. Creation reveals God’s existence.
Genesis 1:1 declares, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”

This verse contains everything we need to know about God.

A. “In the beginning”
God is pre-existent – He existed before the beginning in order to create a beginning in the universe.

John 1:1 says, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. “

B. “Created the heavens and the earth”
God is Creator – He formed out of nothing all that is in existence in the universe by his sovereign, divine, supernatural power and authority.

Just as a building points to its builder, creation points to a Creator (Hebrews 3:4). This is the teleological argument for the existence of God (argument from design). All creation points directly to its Creator. Everything in life points "Straight Up." According to the doctrine of Creation found in the Bible, all things were created by the Truine God and he has left his crafty fingerprints all over creation that display his variety, intelligence, creativity, uniqueness, power, and character.

2. Creation reveals God’s invisible attributes.
Romans 1:20 says, “For since the creation of the world his invisible attributes – his eternal power and divine nature – have been clearly seen, because they are understood through what has been made. So people are without excuse.

A. “Since the creation of the world”
From the very beginning of God demonstrating his craftsmanship as a wonderful Maker, his divine attributes [which are his eternal characteristics] are evident and manifested in all of his creation! (i.e. the absolutes of existence, sea life, animal life, our bodies, the planets, etc.)

B. “Without excuse”
Most people have a simple understand of creation and the existence of God, however, people do reject such evidence in the world and the burden of proof, subjugating any reasonable belief in God.


3. Creation reveals God’s glory.
Psalm 19:1-4 says, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the sky displays his handiwork. Day after day it speaks out; night after night it reveals his greatness. There is no actual speech or word, nor is its voice literally heard. Yet its voice echoes throughout the earth; its words carry to the distant horizon.”

A. “The heavens declare the glory of God”
God created all things good and for his glory to be manifested to us, and see his supreme worthiness and greatness everyday.

B. “Voice echoes throughout the earth”
This is an exact reference to the same voice during the creation account (God). The creation we see around us displays the wonderful glory of God that radiates brilliance and magnifies its Creator (i.e. birds singing, wind blowing through the trees, waves crashing, loins roaring, waterfalls and rivers flowing, etc.)

4. Creation reveals God’s redemptive plan.
Romans 8:20-23 says, “For the creation was subjected to futility – not willingly but because of God who subjected it in hope, that the creation itself will also be set free from the bondage of decay into the glorious freedom of God’s children. For we know that the whole creation groans and suffers until now (i.e. the finished redemptive work of Christ on the cross). Not only this, but we ourselves also, who have the first-fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we eagerly await our adoption, the redemption of our bodies.”

A. “Creation was subjected to futility” and “subjected in hope”
God created the world and made it beautiful, but created it in such a way that it reveals to us the emptiness without God and the longing for eternity in our hearts. God created us to know him! (cf. Ecclesiastes 3:11)

In the doctrine of Creation, we learn several things about God:
1. He is Sovereign - He is the Creator and Ruler over all the universe.

2. He is Source - He is the Giver of all life and created all things with purpose.

3. He is Sacred - He is the Holy One that administrates all righteousness and goodness.

Unbiblical View of Creation
In our country over the past 250 years, there has been a radical push for the disappearance of God. In the 1700’s, it was a period called “The Enlightenment Era” where men disposed the truth of the bible by refuting the creation account and all the miracles and supernatural proclamations of God, while only believed in things that were visually existent these were the first Naturalists. In the 1800’s, more grew into these ideologies and strayed from the truth, climaxing with Charles Darwin and his Origin of Species. The was the rise of what we know today as Darwinian Evolution.

Darwinian Evolution is an atheistic religion that diminishes the doctrine of creation in the Bible, and fogs the glorious light of God's glory in the world. The athestic elements from such beliefs have influenced more recent ly two creation-related debate topics of “abortion” and “global warming.” These beliefs all have a theme called is NO GOD.

For example:
1. Evolution – No God’s Creation = Man is the most elite and dominate species ruling over the world.
2. Abortion – No God’s Morality = Man is the Authority of right and wrong, life and death.
3. Global Warming – No God’s Sovereignty = Man is the Savior of the planet.

The problem with Darwinian Evolution: Macroevolution vs. Microevolution 
A. Macroevolution – The belief that ALL life forms have descended from a common ancestor, the first single celled creature, in which all by natural process without any intelligent intervention being a completely blind process that has never been observed in the history of mankind and is not mentioned at all in the Bible.
“From the goo, to you, via the zoo.” - I Don’t Have Enough Faith To Be An Atheist

B. Microevolution – The belief that All life forms have a descended from a former kind, a similar species that is within the same type (i.e. cats), that adapts and survives to reproduce the same kind of species, not another type, which has been observed over history and in science today! [an alligator cannot make a parrot or visa versa].

The Bible says God created man in “his image,” and he created all living creatures “of its kind.” (cf. Gen. 1:24-27)

"God created us in his image. But we have marred the image so badly it is scarcely recognizable. Therefore this truth begs for the completion of Christianity because what Jesus does is reclaim what has been lost. It is called a new creation in Christ. The image is restored in righteousness and holiness. Our image is restored into the image we were created. The proper understanding of everything in life begins with God. No one will ever understand the necessity of conversion who does not know why God created us. He created us "in his image" so that we would image forth his glory in the world. We were made to be prisms refracting the light of God's glory into all of life." - John Piper

The problem with Abortion: No Moral Authority 
Abortion is a hot topic in our culture right now because people want to have the authority over their own bodies and not take the full responsibility for their actions. Christians, however, are not the authority to determine whether Abortion is right or wrong, legal or illegal, its GOD who is the authority!

1. God ordains life – Jeremiah 1:4-5, The LORD said to me, “Before I formed you in your mother’s womb I chose you. Before you were born I set you apart.”

2. God gives life – Genesis 2:7, “God breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.”

3. God blesses life – Psalm 127:3, “Behold, children are a gift from the LORD, the fruit of the womb is a reward.”

The problem with Global Warming: Man is the Savior of the planet
A. The Lord is in control of all things on earth, which includes the climate, atmosphere, oceans, icebergs, animals, and the rest of the world's inhabitant!

Hebrews 1:3 says, “[Christ] being the brightness of his glory and the expressed image of His person, and upholding all things by the world of his power.”

Colossians 1:16-17 says, “For by [Christ] all things were created through him and for him. In [Christ] all things consist.”

B. The true global warming will only occur when God ordains his judgment on the earth and creates a new one for eternity!

2 peter 3:11-13 declares, “Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be I holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat? Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.”

Wrapping Up.
A. Why is the doctrine of Creation so important?
Because it establishes our God, our origins, and our purpose in life. We were created with a purpose in the image of God to know him and make him know by glorifying his name.

B. What does studying the doctrine of Creation teach us?
Creation reveals God’s existence, invisible attributes, glory, and redemptive plan. It gives us a foundational understanding of who God is personally and builds a platform based on Scripture to stand upon for a solid faith.



Wrapping Up.
1. When was the last time you defended the doctrine of creation? Make a stand at school for Truth.

2. When was the last time you gazed at the wonderful creation? Go somewhere that exhibits God’s beauty and worship the Lord for his .

He Made All Things Glorious

Here are some thoughts on God making things for his glory (Isaiah 43:7).

1. He made Creation glorious.
God makes all things glorious as David Crowder Band faithfully sings. He started making the universe that has his glorious likeness and fingerprints all over the spacial, earthly, and heavenly places (cf. Psalm 19:1-4).

2. He made Christ glorious.
God, through the incarnation, came into the world as a man, Jesus Christ. He is the exalted and expressed image of the invisible God, who was and has been glorified (cf. John 17:1-4, Col. 1:15, Heb. 1:3)

3. He made the Cross glorious.
God who had a redemptive plan for his creation, sent his only begotten Son to die on a cross to demonstrate his love and grace. He showed us the most glorious and praiseworthy act or love on the cross, where Jesus died for us a substitutionary death to propitiate our sins. Therefore, the glory of God rested on the cross of Christ radiating the superiority of the work of Jesus Christ over sin and death. What an indescribable gift! (Rom. 1:16, 1 Cor. 1:18, Col. 1:27, 1 Peter 1:21).

Weapon of Mass Destruction

Did you know that he Word of God is a weapon of mass destruction? lol.

2 Corinthians 10:3-5 says, "For though we live as human beings, we do not wage war according to human standards, for the weapons of our warfare are not human weapons, but are made powerful by God for tearing down strongholds. We tear down arguments and every arrogant obstacle that is raised up against the knowledge of God, and we take every thought captive to make it obey Christ."

The Word of God is powerful and explodes radioactive truth to the world through the Gospel in the hearts and lives of men!

7 Reasons For the Trustworthiness and Reliability of the Scriptures

1. Prophetic Reason (Bible predicts)

2. Christological Reason (Bible proclaims)

3. Logical Reason (Bible conveys)

4. Historical Reason (Bible locates)

5. Scientific Reason (Bible explains)

6. Providential Reason (Bible guides)

7. Personal Reason (Bible transforms)

These reasons constitute the trustworthiness and reliability of the Bible being absolute truth because it is validated by the overwhelming evidence and proof through different aspects in logic and understanding. The Bible is the only book that predicts the future and it has come to true. The Bible is the only book that proclaims the life, ministry, death, burial, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ the Messiah as the Son of God. The Bible is the only book that conveys simple logic to all people about the meaning and purposes of life and how everything works in the world. The Bible is the only book that locates historical sites with pin point accuracy that was prophesied and then destroyed many years later to only be found thousands of years later by archeologists, and has the most ancient manuscript copies of any other piece of literacy in the history of mankind. The Bible is the only book that explains scientific truth before scientists even made the discoveries, such as the earth was a sphere, the solar system, the number of stars are innumerable, a precipitation system and a functionality of four seasons in a year. The Bible is the only book that guides all people in life and gives them instruction in order to live a holy and happy life. The Bible is the only book that transforms lives through the living and power Word of God.

The Purpose of Ministry

Great quote that has been ministering to me every time I do ministry. It solidifies for me how I need to have a gospel-centered perspective when I do ministry.

"We need God. We need the good news, the news of the King who has come, making lasting change possible. This alone is our personal hope and the basis of our ministry to others."


We need to go preach the gospel to people because they need to hear about King Jesus who has come to rescue their souls!

Living Without God is like...

I came across this statement in the book I am reading called Instruments In the Redeemer's Hands by Paul David Tripp. It is so good!!! He talks about walking with God was our foundational purpose in being created. However, he says living without God is not good. We were created to walk with him. (Note: picture on the left reminds me of how we are to walk with the Lord.)

"We were created to be dependent [upon God]. Trying to live without God's help is to assign myself a sub-human existence. It is to live like an animal, as if I were something other than what I am. Vast numbers of people attempt to live this way, but it is an act of irrationality. They deny their identity, subvert their own lives, and crush their own hopes. Human beings were created to live on the PLATFORM of God's revelation, which is why were were given the unique communicative abilities we possess."


Everyone was created to know God. God has placed eternity in our hearts to have the knowledge that He exists and that we are utterly forsaken without him. Therefore, Christians are to live in their restored state as a born-again believer and stand only upon the platform of God's holy truth to live a live that will be filled with rationality, simplicity, and satisfaction because of the pleasure of walking with God.

Consistent Discipleship - Paul Strengthens the Churches

Consistency is a very important when it comes to the ministry. The word consistency means being reliable and dependable with a expectation of rational persistence to maintain steady, unchanging, undeviating, and a unfailing ambition to complete a task. The Christian walk has a task. It is to make disciples. The Great Commission is for all believers to make disciples of all nations (Matt. 28:19-20). Spouses are to grow each other into disciples. Parents are to raise their children as disciples. Neighbors are to raise their neighbors as disciples. Teachers are to raise their students as disciples. Pastors are to raise their sheep in their flock as disciples. The overarching goal of discipleship is to supremely glorify God in the lives of others. The task for every believer is to faithfully live for Jesus in such a way that demonstrates to others the pleasure of knowing Christ, giving them a thirst for the Living Water (John 4:13-14). Piper says, "The Lord is revealed for who He really is when we cherish him as infinitely valuable and satisfying." This describes the lifestyle of the Apostle Paul. Paul had a heart for discipleship. He says in Colossians 1:28 that is it "[Christ] we proclaim him by instructing and teaching all people with all wisdom so that we may present every person mature in Christ." In the book of Acts, I have read something awesome that Paul does after his missionary trips. He goes and strengthens the churches he planted. (Acts 14:21-23; 15:36, 40-41; 18:23)

1. Acts 14:21-23, "After they had proclaimed the good news in that city and made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, to Iconium, and to Antioch. They strengthened the souls of the disciples and encouraged them to continue in the faith, saying, “We must enter the kingdom of God through many persecutions.” When they had appointed elders for them in the various churches, with prayer and fasting they entrusted them to the protection of the Lord in whom they had believed."

2. Acts 15:36, 40-41, "Then after some days Paul said to Barnabas, 'Let us now go back and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they are doing...Paul chose Silas and departed, being commended by the brethren to the grace of God. And he went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches."

3. Acts 18:23, "After he had spent some time there , he departed and went over the region of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples."

Paul goes to the churches to do something. Maintain a consistent discipleship among the churches he started. He cared about those souls in those places and wanted to go visit them and disciple them with a spirit of exhortation. His desire was not to simple just teach them, but to grow them in their faith. He was a vessel of encouragement for hurting hearts. He was an instrument in the Redeemers hands to work in the hearts of the saints. His job was not to come and drop a theology proper discourse or seminary session on eschatology, but to simply be a consistent discipleship leader who came to comfort, encourage, and grow the faith of the believers in the church.

Therefore, as believers, our great calling is to make disciples. Look at the example of Paul and how he helped those believers. Make it an effort to encourage others and help them with their struggles. Strengthen the faith of those who are doubting and have fear. Be a consistent friend who is there for others in order to mature them in their faith and help them become a cross-bearing follower of Christ who can therefore go and make disciples. This leaves us with this question - who are you discipling? Are you obeying the command of Jesus Christ?

Going to the Well Retreat!

Melissa and I are pretty excited to go to the Well retreat in May. It will be our first time going to the Well retreat because the last two years we have been busy and unavailable to go. This time, however, will be a time of refreshment and sanctified fun among the body of Christ at Harvest. Not having to technically serve and administrate will be liberating for us during the weekend because of all the labor we do throughout the regular week for the church. With my busy and unorthodox schedule these days, I have not been able to see a lot of my brothers and sisters who go to the Well ministry. I am looking forward to spending a weekend away from the trials and busyness of life in the Inland Empire and retreat to the mountain top of refuge.

Most Christians automatically think of Moses and how he spent time on Mount Sinai 40 years with God for spiritual growth and preparation to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. When I think of a mountain, however, I of the Gospels. I think of the ministry of Jesus and how he did so many incredible things on mountains (i.e. Calling the 12 Disciples, Sermon on the Mount, Feeding the 5000, Transfiguration, etc.) specifically for spiritual refreshment and revitalization.

Matthew describes Jesus going on a hike up a mountain to be with the Father. 

Matthew 14:23 says, "And when He had sent the multitudes away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. Now when evening came, He was alone there."

Mark describes Jesus going on a retreat to be with the Father.
Mark 1:35-37 says, "Then Jesus got up early in the morning when it was still very dark, departed, and went out to a deserted place, and there he spent time in prayer. Simon and his companions searched for him. When they found him, they said, “Everyone is looking for you.” He replied, “Let us go elsewhere, into the surrounding villages, so that I can preach there too. For that is what I came out here to do.”


Interesting to note, in Mark 1:35 the verb for prayer is "the imperfect προσηύχετο (Gk. proshuceto)," which implies some duration to the prayer of Jesus. Therefore his prayer and meditation was an extended time of enduring supplication to the Father for strength and peace. Also, the word for "deserted place" is literally "wilderness (Gk. eremos)." I am expecting the Lord to speak to Melissa and I and refresh our hearts for the ministry he has called us to do and for future big plans this year. My good brother Daniel Hooper will be teaching, and also Rick Holland from John MacArthur's church will be guest speaking! I cannot wait to hear what they have to share in the Scriptures. I will be looking forward to what God wants to teach Melissa and I while on the mountain top worshiping him in spirit and truth. Hope to see you there!

Jesus, The Great Substitute

Jesus said in John 11:25, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live." The Resurrection of Jesus Christ is the most important event in all of human history. Easter season is not about animals, eggs, candy, toys, or even gifts. It is not about a rabbit, it's about a resurrection! The main character of Easter is the glorious vindication of God through the atoning death and death-defying resurrection of the Son of God, Jesus Christ. The theme of Easter is a message of hope for all lost sinners to know the risen Christ who came into the world not to condemn it, but to save those in it. Easter is celebration of the death and the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

-The resurrection is the crowned event event in all of God's redemptive history.

-The resurrection is the cornerstone of all Christianity.

-The resurrection is the confirmation of eternal life for all believers.

-The resurrection is the central teaching and testimony to the ecclesiastical institution for church on Sunday (i.e. the Lord's Day).

The resurrection, however, is not possible without a death. The resurrection could not be possible unless someone died. Jesus had to die in order to be resurrected. Therefore, the gospel-centered celebration of Easter resonates upon a death that is validated by a resurrection proving the significance and power of the work demonstrated on the cross. The nature of Easter is the grace-giving substitutionary death of Jesus Christ for the eternal, wrath-absorbing, forgiveness and justification of sins to all who embrace the Lordship of Jesus.

The Doctrine of Substitution is at the Heart of Jesus' Mission.

Substitution - "To take the place of another."
A. 2 Corinthians 5:21, "For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him."

B. Romans 3:25, "Whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed."

C. 1 John 2:2, "And He Himself is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the whole world."

D. Romans 5:8, 10, "But God demonstrates his own love for us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of his Son, how much more, since we have been reconciled, will we be saved by his life?"

The Doctrine of Substitution is at the Heart of Jesus' Message.

The narrative in Mark 15:6-15, describes the story of Jesus and Barrabas:

"During the feast it was customary to release one prisoner to the people, whomever they requested. A man named Barabbas was imprisoned with rebels who had committed murder during an insurrection. Then the crowd came up and began to ask Pilate to release a prisoner for them, as was his custom. So Pilate asked them, “Do you want me to release the king of the Jews for you?” (For he knew that the chief priests had handed him over because of envy.) But the chief priests stirred up the crowd to have him release Barabbas instead. So Pilate spoke to them again, “Then what do you want me to do with the one you call king of the Jews?” They shouted back, “Crucify him!” Pilate asked them, “Why? What has he done wrong?” But they shouted more insistently, “Crucify him!” Because he wanted to satisfy the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas for them. Then, after he had Jesus flogged, he handed him over to be crucified."

A. Barrabas was a rebellious sinner (v.15:7)

1. He was a rebel.

2. He was a thief.

3. He was a murderer.

4. he was a zealot.

His name means "son of a father" and according to Origen, his name can be translated "Jesus." The irony of this is that Jesus Christ was the Son of the Father and Barrabas was the son of a father. Barrabas was a rebellious sinner on pace to encompass the authoritative wrath of Rome for his sinful actions. He was a law-violating criminal. Barrabas is a typology of sinners who are in opposition as rebels and enemies against God. There is no one good and all fall short of the glory of God due to their evil in the heart of man. Non-believers are completed separated from God because of their sins. No sinner seeks God and what is good (cf. Psalm 14, 53, Rom. 3:10, 23).

B. Barrabas was replaced by a substitute (v.15:15)

Barrabas was replaced by someone else, who would be condemned and die in his place. In doing this, some things happened to Barrabas that are important to notice.

1. He was released from the bondage of prison.

2. He was unshackled and unchained from condemnation.

3. He was excused of wrath-filled punishment and torment.

Barrabas the rebel was convicted, condemned, and judged to be crucified. Nevertheless, Jesus took the place of Barrabas and he was released. Some suggest that his partners in crime were the two criminals being crucified on each side of Jesus. I believe this is so. This is very possible because it says that Barrabas was "apart of the rebellion" that includes more than one person. These men were to be killed because of their violation of the law. Jesus, on the contrary, was blameless and innocent, yet was condemned to death in place of Barrabas. Jesus substituted Barrabas' place on the cross in the middle and endured and took the penalty of sin - death. Barrabas was suppose to be on the cross Jesus died on because he and the two criminals were associated. Therefore, this story is a typology of Jesus Christ the great substitute for our sins and redemption!

The Great Substitute - The Doctrine of Substitution is at the Heart of Easter.

Jesus is the great substitute that the Lord Jesus Christ died for us and took all the pain, punishment, and penalty for our sinfulness. "For by one offering He has perfected forever those who are being sanctified" (Hebrews 10:14).

Jesus is our Great Substitute! Embrace the wonderful doctrine of the substitutionary death of Christ for our sins. He gave his life so that we might have life (i.e. eternal life). He died for us in our place and took upon the warth of God "because he loved us first" (1 John 4:19). 

This Easter, remember the wonderful words of Jesus that he spoke at the upper room to his disciples, "No one has greater love than this – that one lays down his life for his friends."

Expositional Thoughts on Psalm 37:4

Recently, Melissa and I have been reading through the the book of Psalms. We have been blessed with rich encouragement from the Scriptures. However, I have came across some verses that have complimented Psalm 37:4, which is one of my dearest verses close to my heart. The Lord promises to those who 'delight' in Him (meaning fellowship, prayer, communion, service in Christ), He will give us the desires of our hearts. This verse does not mean he will give us what we 'want' or what we suggestively lust after in gratification, but that God will give us what is the desires of our hearts in conformity to delighting in His holiness. So there are a few things we need to define to make such a case valid in the Scriptures.

David pens three verses that explain to us that God will grant us the desires of our hearts only if they are desires of our heavenly Father. Godly desires birth when godly obedience is maintained through being a doer of God's Word.

1. Psalm 20:4, "May He grant you according to your heart’s desire , And fulfill all your purpose."

2. Psalm 21:2, "You have given him his heart’s desire, And have not withheld the request of his lips."

3. Psalm 37:4, "Delight yourself also in the LORD, And He shall give you the desires of your heart."