Today, Wednesday, November 1, 2017, is the eleventh in a series of chapters in Russell Board's book entitled, 40 Days With Jesus.
You will not be the same after reading each of these inspiring and informative chapters. They are concise and comprehensive chapters and you will be captivated by each one.
Stand by for the eleventh chapter entitled, "Wisdom":
WISDOM
Matthew 7:1-29
Verses 1-6
These days Jesus’ injunction to “judge not” is often used to silence anyone who dares to criticize another’s actions. Jesus’ Words are taken as a blanket prohibition against judging others, as if the Lord were a moral relativist who affirmed the right of individuals to determine for themselves the ethical standards for their lives. This is not the Jesus portrayed in the Gospels, and such a reading of verse 1 is belied by the rest of the passage, never mind the dozens of other statements He made about right and wrong, good and evil.
In this very chapter, Jesus calls His hearers “evil” (verse 11), affirms that many are on the path to “destruction” (verse 13), denounces “false prophets” (verse 15), urges us to judge people by their “fruits” (verses 16, 20), and declares that many of His supposed followers will be rejected as “workers of lawlessness” (verse 23). These are not the words of a man who categorically prohibited all judging.
Indeed, Jesus elsewhere tells us, “Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment” (John 7:24). This requires a willingness to make sure our own motives are right before we criticize someone else. Hypocrisy undermines right judgment.
Jesus’ warning in Matthew 7:1-2 parallels that in Matthew 6:14-15: “If you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” “Judge not” can be taken to mean “Extend forgiveness.” God expects the beneficiaries of His mercy to extend mercy to others. Those who refuse to forgive cannot expect God to forgive them.
In general, Jesus’ dealings with the publicly despised “sinners” of the day (prostitutes, tax collectors, drunkards) were characterized by understanding, compassion, forgiveness and a desire to lead them into a better way of life. He always managed to convey love for the sinner without condoning sin. On the other hand, Jesus’ harshest Words were reserved for the self-righteous, holier-than-thou attitude manifested by the Pharisees. It wasn’t that the “sinners” were somehow living in a way morally superior to the Pharisees, but that the “sinners” were all too aware of their failings, while the Pharisees were blind to their own faults. Jesus tailored His approach to the needs of His hearers.
We do well to watch out for our own “inner Pharisee.” We are all too prone to focus on the faults of others while overlooking our own. It’s a lot easier to reprimand others than it is to rectify our own failings. Perhaps at some level we hope that pointing out the flaws of others will make us look better in comparison. But we can never build ourselves up by tearing others down.
Verses 7-12
Jesus encourages us to ask, seek and knock, offering assurance that our efforts will be rewarded. However, be advised: these are not bland, passive verbs. Earnestness and perseverance are required. A perfunctory request, a half-hearted hope, a distracted prayer -- these are not what Jesus has in mind. The verbs might well be translated keep petitioning, keep pursuing, keep pounding -- don’t give up!
God is not a vending machine for dispensing goodies on demand. Like any caring father, He may sometimes turn down a request for our own good, in order to give us something better instead. He may also determine that we aren’t ready to handle whatever it is we are seeking, and need time to develop greater maturity. Waiting can test the depth of our longing: is it a passing fancy, or a heartfelt hunger? Waiting can also test our tenacity, and enhance our appreciation for the gift when it comes.
Verses 13-29
The parable of the wise and foolish builders presents a striking and memorable image. Two things we should be careful to note: first, the rain, flood and winds slammed into both houses with equal force. Jesus makes no promise that those who follow Him will be spared all the trials and tribulations of life. This world is a difficult and dangerous place, and its storms will strike every life sooner or later. Followers of Christ are not exempt from trouble, but they have the resources to see them safely through the fiercest tempest.
Second, laying a solid foundation for life comes from putting the teachings of Christ into practice. The foolish man heard the Words of Christ as well as the wise man, but he failed to do anything about it. Reading the Bible daily and listening to dynamic sermons every Sunday won’t help when the storms come, unless the Word is taken to heart and applied in daily life. It is not hearing or even believing, but doing what Christ says that makes the difference.
However, we will find that following the way of Christ means “going against the flow.” The majority are content with adopting whatever standards of conduct are approved by their peers, or portrayed in the media. But Jesus issues a warning against following the crowd. The road to destruction is thronged with carefree travelers. But there will be no comfort in having lots of company for those who find themselves at a dead end. It is much wiser to live to please God rather than people, since He will be the final judge.
Meditation: What can I learn from Jesus about loving sinners without condoning sin? Where in my life do I find it hard to “go against the flow?”
Prayer: Lord, help me to stand up for truth and righteousness, without becoming self-righteous. Help me not just to admire Your words, but to put them into practice. Help me to follow You day by day.
You will not be the same after reading each of these inspiring and informative chapters. They are concise and comprehensive chapters and you will be captivated by each one.
Stand by for the eleventh chapter entitled, "Wisdom":
WISDOM
Matthew 7:1-29
Verses 1-6
These days Jesus’ injunction to “judge not” is often used to silence anyone who dares to criticize another’s actions. Jesus’ Words are taken as a blanket prohibition against judging others, as if the Lord were a moral relativist who affirmed the right of individuals to determine for themselves the ethical standards for their lives. This is not the Jesus portrayed in the Gospels, and such a reading of verse 1 is belied by the rest of the passage, never mind the dozens of other statements He made about right and wrong, good and evil.
In this very chapter, Jesus calls His hearers “evil” (verse 11), affirms that many are on the path to “destruction” (verse 13), denounces “false prophets” (verse 15), urges us to judge people by their “fruits” (verses 16, 20), and declares that many of His supposed followers will be rejected as “workers of lawlessness” (verse 23). These are not the words of a man who categorically prohibited all judging.
Indeed, Jesus elsewhere tells us, “Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment” (John 7:24). This requires a willingness to make sure our own motives are right before we criticize someone else. Hypocrisy undermines right judgment.
Jesus’ warning in Matthew 7:1-2 parallels that in Matthew 6:14-15: “If you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” “Judge not” can be taken to mean “Extend forgiveness.” God expects the beneficiaries of His mercy to extend mercy to others. Those who refuse to forgive cannot expect God to forgive them.
In general, Jesus’ dealings with the publicly despised “sinners” of the day (prostitutes, tax collectors, drunkards) were characterized by understanding, compassion, forgiveness and a desire to lead them into a better way of life. He always managed to convey love for the sinner without condoning sin. On the other hand, Jesus’ harshest Words were reserved for the self-righteous, holier-than-thou attitude manifested by the Pharisees. It wasn’t that the “sinners” were somehow living in a way morally superior to the Pharisees, but that the “sinners” were all too aware of their failings, while the Pharisees were blind to their own faults. Jesus tailored His approach to the needs of His hearers.
We do well to watch out for our own “inner Pharisee.” We are all too prone to focus on the faults of others while overlooking our own. It’s a lot easier to reprimand others than it is to rectify our own failings. Perhaps at some level we hope that pointing out the flaws of others will make us look better in comparison. But we can never build ourselves up by tearing others down.
Verses 7-12
Jesus encourages us to ask, seek and knock, offering assurance that our efforts will be rewarded. However, be advised: these are not bland, passive verbs. Earnestness and perseverance are required. A perfunctory request, a half-hearted hope, a distracted prayer -- these are not what Jesus has in mind. The verbs might well be translated keep petitioning, keep pursuing, keep pounding -- don’t give up!
God is not a vending machine for dispensing goodies on demand. Like any caring father, He may sometimes turn down a request for our own good, in order to give us something better instead. He may also determine that we aren’t ready to handle whatever it is we are seeking, and need time to develop greater maturity. Waiting can test the depth of our longing: is it a passing fancy, or a heartfelt hunger? Waiting can also test our tenacity, and enhance our appreciation for the gift when it comes.
Verses 13-29
The parable of the wise and foolish builders presents a striking and memorable image. Two things we should be careful to note: first, the rain, flood and winds slammed into both houses with equal force. Jesus makes no promise that those who follow Him will be spared all the trials and tribulations of life. This world is a difficult and dangerous place, and its storms will strike every life sooner or later. Followers of Christ are not exempt from trouble, but they have the resources to see them safely through the fiercest tempest.
Second, laying a solid foundation for life comes from putting the teachings of Christ into practice. The foolish man heard the Words of Christ as well as the wise man, but he failed to do anything about it. Reading the Bible daily and listening to dynamic sermons every Sunday won’t help when the storms come, unless the Word is taken to heart and applied in daily life. It is not hearing or even believing, but doing what Christ says that makes the difference.
However, we will find that following the way of Christ means “going against the flow.” The majority are content with adopting whatever standards of conduct are approved by their peers, or portrayed in the media. But Jesus issues a warning against following the crowd. The road to destruction is thronged with carefree travelers. But there will be no comfort in having lots of company for those who find themselves at a dead end. It is much wiser to live to please God rather than people, since He will be the final judge.
Meditation: What can I learn from Jesus about loving sinners without condoning sin? Where in my life do I find it hard to “go against the flow?”
Prayer: Lord, help me to stand up for truth and righteousness, without becoming self-righteous. Help me not just to admire Your words, but to put them into practice. Help me to follow You day by day.
Russell Board and his wife, Sandra, are career IPHC missionaries. They are currently serving in Asia, and living in Saitama, Japan. Russell serves as the Director of Missions for Asia/Pacific IPHC World Missions Ministries.
Russell is as prolific writer and is no stranger to IPHC church members.
Russell wrote Sunday school Adult Student curriculum for One Accord Resources for use by IPHC and other Pentecostal denominations for 15 years. He also wrote Adult Teacher curriculum from time to time.
The book he wrote for new believers was revised in 2012 and reprinted in a new format under the title GROW. It is available here:
http://lifespringsresources.com/grow-maturing-believers-through-the-truths-of-the-christian-faith
Presiding Bishop Doug Beacham and Russell Board co-wrote an e-book called CHRISTMAS BEFORE AND AFTER, where Russell penned 25 readings for Advent and Doug wrote 12 reading for the Twelve Days of Christmas. It is available on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Before-After-Doug-Beacham-ebook/dp/B00A7XJ3LC/ref=sr_1_5?
40 Days with Jesus is available through LifeSprings here: http://lifespringsresources.com/40-days-with-jesus-encountering-jesus-in-the-gospels
Also, the Kindle version is available from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/40-Days-Jesus-Encountering-Gospels-ebook/dp/B074G2NFDZ/ref=sr_1_3
Russell is as prolific writer and is no stranger to IPHC church members.
Russell wrote Sunday school Adult Student curriculum for One Accord Resources for use by IPHC and other Pentecostal denominations for 15 years. He also wrote Adult Teacher curriculum from time to time.
The book he wrote for new believers was revised in 2012 and reprinted in a new format under the title GROW. It is available here:
http://lifespringsresources.com/grow-maturing-believers-through-the-truths-of-the-christian-faith
Presiding Bishop Doug Beacham and Russell Board co-wrote an e-book called CHRISTMAS BEFORE AND AFTER, where Russell penned 25 readings for Advent and Doug wrote 12 reading for the Twelve Days of Christmas. It is available on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Before-After-Doug-Beacham-ebook/dp/B00A7XJ3LC/ref=sr_1_5?
40 Days with Jesus is available through LifeSprings here: http://lifespringsresources.com/40-days-with-jesus-encountering-jesus-in-the-gospels
Also, the Kindle version is available from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/40-Days-Jesus-Encountering-Gospels-ebook/dp/B074G2NFDZ/ref=sr_1_3