THE MAJESTY OF GOD

To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David.
The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament shows His handiwork (Psalm 19:1).

The word ‘heavens’ in the first verse of Psalm 19 stands in the emphatic position, drawing our attention immediately upward to the creation of God. David, the shepherd and author of this testimony of praise was overcome with the majesty of the God of Abraham as his eyes focused on the works of His hand. The grandeur of God as revealed in the natural world is evident even to the heathen, “… because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse” (Rom. 1:19-20).

Many of us have had an experience similar to David’s, when on occasion we saw the beauty of the mountains, studied the remarkable world of animals and insects, or considered the vastness of space. As a little boy, I often peered into outer space with admiration and perplexity. Exactly what existed beyond the range of my vision? And when did it get there? I never doubted that God was the One who created it. Only “the fool hath said in his heart, There is no God” (Psalm 14:1). With the advance of technology in our day, it is now possible to see what I could not see as a child, let alone what the men of the Bible could see, who had only the naked eye.

I have to wonder what David would exclaim if he could see some of the hundreds of thousands of remarkable space photos taken by the Hubble telescope since its launch in 1990. What would Sir Isaac Newton think were he alive today? According to many, Newton (1643-1727) had no equals in the history of science. A sketch of his life was presented in a Christian History Institute publication. The author described Newton in this way: “Among the greatest scientific geniuses of all times, Isaac Newton made major contributions to mathematics, optics, physics, and astronomy. He discovered the law of gravitation, formulated the basic laws of motion, developed calculus, and analyzed the nature of white light. Behind all his science was the conviction that God made the universe with a mathematical structure and He gifted human beings' minds to understand that structure. The very orderliness and design of the universe spoke of God's awesome majesty and wisdom.” 1 A fool denies the existence of God; Newton denied that anything could come into existence apart from God. He also understood that the greatness and power of God is beyond our comprehension. He said, "I must confess to a feeling of profound humility in the presence of a universe which transcends us at almost every point. I feel like a child who while playing by the seashore has found a few brightly colored shells and a few pebbles while the whole vast ocean of truth stretches out almost untouched and unruffled before my eager fingers." Amen to that! “Great is our Lord, and of great power: his understanding is infinite” (Psalm 147:5). "He hath made the earth by his power, he hath established the world by his wisdom, and hath stretched out the heaven by his understanding" (Jeremiah 51:15). Certainly the God who can do such things and so much more must be the only object of our worship and praise.

I find it no surprise that Psalm 19 was addressed “to the Chief Musician”. Another hymn writer, Isaac Watts, composed, “The Heavens Declare Thy Glory.” The first stanza begins with the words, “The heavens declare thy glory, Lord; in every star thy wisdom shines.” Truly the wisdom of God does shine forth in all His glorious creation. As he contemplated the heavens above, Watts was led to bow to the ground and worship the Creator, just as David boasted of God in Psalm 19. Should we not be moved to praise God when we see the glory of His creation? Dr. Arthur Harding, in his textbook on astronomy, asked: “Who can study the science of astronomy and contemplate the star-lit heavens with a knowledge of the dimensions of the celestial bodies, their movements and their enormous distances, without bowing his head in reverence to the power that brought this universe into being and safely guides its individual members?” 2

The apostle Paul said in I Corinthians 13:11, “When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.” Since I became a new man in Christ Jesus by trusting His sacrifice on the cross for the forgiveness of my sins (2 Cor. 5:17; 1 Cor. 15:3), I too have matured in my understanding of God’s majesty. I now know more fully, although still in part, that He is the Sovereign Lord of the heavens and the earth who alone is worthy of my deepest devotion, my unceasing thanks, and the consecration of my life for His glory and that of Christ, who brought all things into existence and redeemed my soul (1 Peter 1:18). Colossians 1:12-17 states: “Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.”

Brethren, never give in to fear, worry, or doubt. God has all things under control. He will safely guide us to our eternal home. The next time you look skyward, remember the all-wise and loving God who brought forth the heavenly bodies and sustains them from day to day. Catch a greater glimpse of His glory, and earthly concerns will not seem so daunting!

Worship His Majesty,


Pastor Tom

1 Christian History Institute, Glimpses #69
2 Harding, Arthur M., Astronomy [New York: Garden City Publishing Co., 1940], p.386

WHAT IS TRUTH?

People from all walks of life in every age have wrestled with the notion of truth. When Jesus was brought before Pilate he declared, “every one that is of the truth heareth my voice” (John 18:37). Pilate responded in the next verse with the question, “what is truth?” Was Pilate seeking knowledge from Jesus, or ridiculing the very idea that it is possible to know truth in an absolute sense? The latter thought is the philosophy of the postmodern culture in which we live. Some estimates put these skeptics as high as 70% of the population. In the book, “The Death of Truth”, Dennis Mc Callum wrote: “Postmodernism isn’t a distinct set of doctrines or truth claims. It’s a mood – a view of the world characterized by a deep distrust of reason, not to mention a disdain for the knowledge Christians believe the Bible provides”. A postmodern thinker denies the very possibility of knowing spiritual or moral truth. This is the one thing he is absolutely sure about. Relativism rules the day. But spiritual truth is the one thing most needful in every age and believe it or not, it has its source in God: “He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he (Deuteronomy 32:4). Little wonder the Bible given by inspiration of God (2 Timothy 3:16) has been under constant attack by Satan who is the father of lies. We are in a great battle for truth and sometimes it gets discouraging. May I encourage you not to give up and retreat from the fight. It is not our responsibility to prove to any man that God’s Word is true, we must simply preach it with confidence in the person and power of the Holy Spirit to do His work in the hearts of those who hear. Yes, there is a place for apologetics in the life of the Christian. We should not be ignorant of what we believe and why we believe it, but always remember that it is the Holy Scripture that brings life to a faithless heart: “Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth” (James 1:18). “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12). The challenge to Christians in this age of unbelief is to hide God’s Word in your heart and “be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:” (I Peter 3:15). Think about your salvation testimony. How did you come to faith in Christ? Your path to salvation may differ from other believers, but the one common factor is this - someone shared God’s Word with you and just as Jesus promised, “the truth set you free” (John 8:32). Not the truth of psychology or philosophy, the truth of the gospel which revealed your sinful condition (Romans 3:23) and God’s gracious provision for forgiveness in the death of His Son (John 5:24; Romans 5:8). It is the Scripture alone which is “able to make one wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 3:15). Returning to Pilate’s ‘truth encounter’ we find that Jesus never responded to his statement, “what is truth?” After Pilate uttered those words he went out again to the Jews and delivered Jesus to be crucified (John 18:38-19:6) . How sad to think that he did not realize that “the truth” was literally standing right in front of his eyes in the person of Christ. Jesus was “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). Moreover, He had come to reveal the truth to mankind. He was “the Word made flesh” (John 1:1), the very one who embodied “grace and truth” (John 1:17). Pilate never embraced the truth and consequently he turned away from “the grace of God that bringeth salvation” (Titus 2:11). He missed the only way to heaven and eternal life. Many like Pilate will do the same. “Let us not grow weary in well doing (2 Thessalonians 3:13)”. The way of destruction may be broad (Matthew 7:13) but some will rejoice in the truth and enter the narrow gate to eternal life (Matthew 7:14). God’s Word never returns void (Isaiah 55:11). So, onward Christian soldiers! We do have a distinct set of truth claims, a doctrine to declare, a gospel to proclaim that is “the power of God unto salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16). Be valiant for the truth.

Trusting in the Lord!

Pastor Tom

TUNING THE CHURCH PIANOS

In our church we appreciate good music. However, good singing can be undermined by a piano that is out of tune, so as a rule we have our Kwai Baby Grand tuned twice a year. I have since discovered that two tunings a year may not be sufficient. William White, piano technician wrote, "If a piano is neglected, if it be allowed to go through from one season to another, say, from Spring to Winter, without tuning, it will probably at the end of that time be considerably lower in pitch. It will have gone through a rise, followed by a fall, and the fall will be greater than the first rise.” Admittedly I know very little about the art of tuning a piano, but I do understand that “a fall which exceeds a previous rise can’t be good”. I also know from a strict scientific standpoint that there is no such thing as a “perfectly tuned piano”. The constant temperature and barometric changes as well as the relative humidity in a room will always affect the pitch of a piano to some degree. We must live with the reality that our church piano will always sound “less than perfect”. This is not a big problem. I am very content with our Kwai. It makes beautiful music. There is however something else on the subject of ‘being in tune’ that is of spiritual importance to God’s people. How can a body of believers assembled together for worship make a beautiful sound to the ears of the risen Savior if they are “out of tune”? Not musically out of tune, but spiritually out of tune with each other. I am of course speaking about a lack of unity in the local church. The church at Ephesus was commanded to “endeavor to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3). Bear in mind that unity was something they possessed on the basis of their common salvation. The struggle was to maintain on a functional level what they possessed on a positional level in Christ who drew them together as members of the household of God (Ephesians 2:19) . Just as there are many factors at work that interfere with the harmony of strings on a musical instrument, there are many factors working to destroy the harmony and peace of a Christian congregation. Chief among them is the great enemy of all godly endeavors, Satan, who knows that visible Christian unity glorifies God. Therefore, we should not be surprised that he will utilize every tool and trick at his disposal to create strife and division in the church. We are engaged in a great spiritual battle that knows no respite even when we come together as believers. This is why Paul prayed in Romans 15:5-6: “ Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus: That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ". Brethren, there is no formula that will guarantee our being of “one mind”, but the Bible does point us to the source of godly unity. The source is the Holy Spirit working in each and every believer (Ephesians 4:3; Ephesians 5:18-21) to glorify Christ as Jesus said, “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: (John 16:13-14). The Spirit glorifies Christ most by conforming each believer to His image. In this process corporate unity is achieved. A.W. Tozer employed the analogy of piano tuning to describe how it works. He said, “If a hundred pianos were merely tuned to each other, their pitch would not be very accurate. But if they were all tuned to one tuning fork, they would automatically be tuned to each other". Similarly, unity in the church isn't trying to be the same as everyone else. It is not uniformity! We are individuals with different personalities, strength, weaknesses, preferences, gifts, etc. In short, we a group of many different pianos. Without abandoning our “unity on the essentials of our faith” we can retain our individuality and still be joined together in a way that will please and glorify God by becoming like Jesus Christ. We must all be, “ tuned to His likeness”. When all is said and done it is not “my way” or “your way” that matters, it is “His way”. Jesus having “His way” in all of our hearts is the key to church unity and unity in our homes.

Psalm 133:1 “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! 2 It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments; 3 As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the LORD commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.

Our God will reign forever and ever!

Pastor Tom

THE POVERTY OF RICHES

“Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;” (1 Timothy 6:17 18).
This morning as I was driving to the church I heard a small portion of the Bill O’Reilly radio program and a statement he made caught my attention. He said that "people who love money and make it their life’s pursuit lose their humanity in the process”. Although I am not absolutely certain how he would define that ‘loss of humanity’ I believe it has a lot to do with the compromise of their personal integrity at the expense of others. When it comes to the danger of riches the Bible speaks with clarity and precision -“the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows (1 Timothy 6:10) . Notice that it is not money “per se” that is the root of all evil, but “the love of money”. Money is neither good nor bad. There is no inherent virtue in riches or poverty. In a sense it is neutral commodity. "Abraham was very rich in cattle, in silver, and in gold" (Genesis 13:2) and he walked with God, irrespective of his riches. To the contrary, there are many poor people in this world who have no relationship with God. It is not how much money we possess or don’t possess that is the real problem for the majority of us. The problem surfaces when the money we have, or the lack thereof, begin to possess us. When money “takes hold of us” we fall into the sin of greed and idolatry. We begin to worship a false god whom we see as the source of our happiness. When the lack of it begins to dominate our thought life we fall into the sins of discontentedness and envy. Here too, God is not seen as the true and lasting source of joy. Little wonder that Satan has used money and other riches to capture the hearts of multitudes and lead them astray. It was the love of money that led Balaam to agree to curse Israel, although he could not (Numbers 22-24) . It was the love of riches that caused a certain ruler to refuse Christ’s invitation to “follow Him” and “go away sorrowful” (Luke 18:18-23). It was the love of silver, a measly thirty pieces that led Judas to betray Jesus (Matthew 26:14-15) after enjoying ‘rich’ fellowship with Him and seeing His miracles. The danger of riches is real. It is an ever-present danger. Proverbs 28:2 warns, “He that hasteth to be rich hath an evil eye, and considereth not that poverty shall come upon him. The poverty mentioned here can take many different forms. Oftentimes it includes broken relationships. Christians beware; we are not immune to the sins and heartaches, which flow out of a divided loyalty in the heart. Jesus said, “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon (Matthew 5:24). You cannot serve God and money! I pray that those words will take root deep in our soul . False teachers are offering God’s people a “prosperity gospel” and many like Esau are selling their birthright for a bowl of porridge. Ponzi schemes have fleeced naive Christians for millions. Multi-level marketing plans are finding fertile ground in the church with dreams of financial independence and the freedom to pursue ones dreams. It seems like the mantra is, “enough is just a little bit more”. The truth however is another story. Many who somehow manage to “make it to the top” often discover that God isn’t there. One wonders when it will all end. The answer is 'it won’t end' until Jesus returns. Satan will continue to offer “the things of this world” to anyone seeking contentment in things other than Christ until at last“The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever (Revelation 11:15). Knowing that I too am susceptible to the temptation to pursue less worthy goals I find myself ever in need of the counsel of God’s word found in Colossians 3:1-2 : “1 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. Brothers and sisters, may you find all you ever need in the riches of God’s grace. Pray for one another that we 'strive not to be rich', but rather to follow the example of the beloved apostle Paul, "Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content (Philippians 4:11).

Live for Jesus,

Pastor Tom

THE IMPORTANCE OF SECOND FIDDLE

To play second fiddle is an idiom meaning that you take a subordinate role behind someone more important. The term actually alludes to the part of second violin in an orchestra. Speaking of orchestras, Leonard Bernstein the famous orchestra conductor was once asked, "What is the most difficult instrument to play?" He replied, "Second fiddle. I can get plenty of first violinists, but to find one who plays second violin with as much enthusiasm or second French horn or second flute, now that's a problem. And yet if no one plays second, we have no harmony." Pause for a moment and consider how Berstein’s reply is applicable to Christian ministry. Whether it be in a Christian organization or the local church, the majority of people must be willing to play a subordinate role, standing behind someone more visible if there is to be success in ministry to the glory of God. For those familiar with the game of football the most easily identifiable player and the most valuable to the team is the quarterback. He is the “field general” who calls the plays and inspires his teamates. Lacking a good quarterback a football team can hardly expect to win. Nobody underestimates his value to the team. That is why a quarterback is typically paid the highest salary. But how many football fans know that the second highest paid player on the field is the left offensive tackle. In 2005 they made over $6 million a year in the world of professional football. Why are these men paid so well? Simply because they protect the blind side of the quarterback from the rush of a fast defensive end when a single hit from the blind side can end the career of the quarterback. Typically, a left tackle must be big, over 300 pounds and very agile. That makes him a rare specimen, increasing his value. However, the fact remains that not many football fans can name the left tackle as easily as the quarterback. In a sense, they play second fiddle, but how important is the second fiddle they play? Ask any quarterback and they will be only too happy to tell you. Similarly, the typical Christian team member is not in the role of a quarterback. They are not as heralded, but just as important and precious in God’s sight. In the New Testament epistles of Paul we find the names of many ‘second fiddles’. The most extensive list is found in the book of Romans, chapter 16. Their we find mention of:

- Phoebe who was a guardian of many

- Priscilla & Aquila helpers in Jesus Christ who risked their life for Paul

- Mary who bestowed much labor in behalf of Paul

- Andonicus and Junia fellowsprisoners

- Urbane a helper

- Apelles approved in Christ

- Tryphena and Tryphosa who labor in the Lord

Praise God for these little known saints at Rome who contributed to the work that God ordained. Paul had the dominant role, but he would not have succeeded without those who protected him, prayed for him, encouraged him, exhorted him, supported him, and above all, loved him with the love of Jesus Christ. Although there were men such as “Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence” (3 John 1:9), the Scripture salutes a greater number who toiled behind the stage to honor Christ. It is the same in the church and Christian ministries today. God has plenty of ‘second fiddles’ and to them we owe a huge debt of gratitude. These instruments of God seek neither the praise of men nor earthly rewards. They play for an audience of one, their Saviour. They strive to promote “the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3), rather than destroy it through jealousy and strife. They "place others before themselves" (Philippians 2:4). Their only desire is to be "found faithful" (1 Corinthians 4:2) and set a good example to those who come after them. Surely the music they make is a beautiful and holy sound as it ascends to throne of God in heaven. Christian brothers and sisters, be content to play second fiddle.

To Jesus be all the glory forever!

Pastor Tom

HIDING IN PLAIN VIEW

We have all seen pictures of camouflaged insects or other animals that make them nearly impossible to distinguish from their surroundings. Camouflage is the "art of concealment". It involves disguising an object, in plain sight, in order to hide it from something or someone. Many animals depend on camouflage for their survival or hunts to succeed. I once saw a picture of a lion hiding in the tall grasslands of Africa, much like the one accompanying this article. The photo I saw was on the front cover of a popular magazine. The lion was nearly invisible to the eye. When I saw that magazine cover I was amazed how perfectly that lion blended in with his environment. He was literally, “hiding in plain view”. Now that sounds like a contradiction, but I think you get what I mean. The lion was in a wide-open area, but hardly detectable. He was waiting for an opportunistic moment to capture his meal for the day. Turning to the Scriptures I would like to make a comparison to the main idea thus far presented. The best-known discourse that Jesus delivered was on a small hill in Northern Israel near Capernaum. We know it as the “Sermon on the Mount”. In ancient times that hill was called Mount Eremos. A portion of the sermon focused on the metaphors of salt and light. Beginning in verse 14 Jesus told his disciples “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven”(Matthew 5:14-16) . Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones believed that verse 14 was one of the most astounding and extraordinary statements about the Christian that was ever made. The contrast of light and darkness is used repeatedly in the Bible. In Genesis 1:4 we learn that "God divided the light from the darkness” . The prophet Isaiah warned, “Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter” (5:20) ! Darkness in the Bible is a picture of man’s spiritual condition. John 12:46 reveals the blessed truth concerning the person of Christ, “I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness”. Jesus was the light of the world, but he told his followers that they also are the light of the world. Oh Christian, the purpose of light is to illuminate the darkness. We alone are the light of the world. We alone have the Word of God, which reveals the true condition of man’s evil heart. Mankind abides in darkness (John 3:19) . We alone have the “glorious light of the gospel” (2 Cor. 4:4) that can penetrate that darkness and set men free from Satan’s tyranny. This is our mission. This is the purpose for which the church exists. “A city set on a hill cannot be hid” (Matthew 4:14) . I believe that many of the saints of God have learned the art of concealment all too well. It is time to think again about the nature of our calling as “light bearers”. If the unsaved people we encounter fail to come to Christ to have their sins forgiven they are doomed to eternal darkness. They will never experience the light of salvation unless from you and me and the gospel we believe, proclaim, and live. May the love of Christ compel us (2 Cor. 5:14) . It is time for the church of the Lord Jesus Christ to stop “hiding in plain view”. We must become that city on a hill. The candle must be taken out from underneath the basket so that it can give light unto all (Matthew 5:15) . The camouflage must be stripped off. The voices that are silent must speak the good news so that many will be “delivered from the power of darkness, and translated into the kingdom of God’s dear Son” (Colossians 1:13) . May Almighty God empower and equip us for this task.

For His glory,

Pastor Tom

LABORING IN GOD'S WORD

Philip saith unto him, Lord, shew us the Father, and it sufficeth us.Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father? (John 14:8,9).
When you read what Philip said in verse 8 of John 14 does it seem like an unreasonable request? To the contrary, one might conclude that it was commendable. After all, what could be wrong with expressing a desire to see the Father whom Jesus often spoke about? Furthermore, Jesus had just mentioned that He would soon depart to go to the Father’s house and would come back for the disciples to take them there (John 14:1-3). No doubt this peaked the natural curiosity of Philip. What is the Father like? Yet, when we look at the reply of the Lord to Philip it is troubling. Philip was not commended, he was rebuked for his ignorance. The end of the Lord’s public ministry was near and he did not fully grasp the most vital truth concerning Jesus - the manifestation of His Divine nature, "he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father?" Jesus had given proof of His Divine power throughout His ministry. Was it not Philip who said, “we have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write” (John 1:45). This led me to question how well the disciples of Jesus in our day know him? Do they understand all of the necessary truths that reveal the person and work of Christ revealed in God’s Word. The early church father Jerome said, “to be ignorant of the Scripture is to be ignorant of Christ”. What I learn from the inquiry of Philip and Thomas (John 14:5) is that the duration of our exposure to truth does not guarantee that we are mature in the faith. Last Sunday in my message to the people of God I mentioned that we must go beyond reading Scripture, meditating upon Scripture, and memorizing Scripture. We must give ourselves to the “study of Holy Scripture” to “show ourselves approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15)." As far as I can tell the problem of Biblical ignorance is not due to a lack of resources. We have Bible dictionaries, systematic theology books, commentaries, lexicons, study Bibles, Christian internet web sites, books and more books from gifted authors. There is no end to the study aids at our disposal. However, all of these are of no use if we do not utilize them. They are tools to Bible understanding, but tools perform no work unless they are in the hands of the workman. To study means to labor to discover the correct interpretation of a text. No my friends, the problem is not ignorance, the problem is laziness and misplaced priorities. Some are like little babes who cannot feed themselves. This crowd is dependent on the spiritual food that comes only from the study others have done. The voice of their favorite Bible teacher has replaced the voice of the Holy Spirit who bears witness to the truth of His inspired Word through diligent personal study. Others are like Martha who was "troubled with many things (Luke 10:41)." The maddening pace of the modern age is taking a toll on our lives, not only physically, but spiritually. We must learn from the great example set by Mary who “sat at Jesus feet and heard His word” (Luke 10:39). Take time today to sit alone at Jesus feet with your Bible and learn from Him. Consider this thought from the pen of William Whitaker, “God willed to have His truth, so sublime, so heavenly, sought and found with so much labor, the more esteemed by us on that account. For we generally despise and scorn whatever is easily acquired, near at hand, and costs small or no labor. But these things which we find with great toil and much exertion, those, when once we have found them out, we esteem highly and consider their value proportionally greater” - Disputations on Holy Scripture by William Whitaker 1588.

God’s blessing to you,


Pastor Tom

THE NECESSITY OF TIME SPENT WITH GOD

Matt. 14:22 And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. 23 And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone.

The one great need in the life of every Christian is time alone with God. We see here in Matthew’s gospel that Jesus did not allow the demands of ministry to interfere with His fellowship with the Father. A short while ago I was preparing a sermon for the Lord’s Day and came upon a portion of Scripture in 1 Timothy 2 that made a similar impression on me. “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; (verses 1,2a). What struck me about Paul’s exhortation to pray for all men, but especially those in authority is the vital purpose of such prayer which is stated at the end of verse 2,” that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty." Here is the mark that we as believers should aim for. A peaceable life that is marked by godliness and honesty! Matthew Henry, was of the conviction that the Christian’s duty is summed up in those two words, godliness and honesty. Godliness encompasses our worship of God that is evidenced by our sacrificial love for the Lord, and honesty (gravity) our duty toward men who behold our testimony. As I understand it, godliness is spiritual shorthand for “a holy manner of life” (2 Peter 3:11). Honesty before men is the sincerity of our convictions that bear witness to the truth we profess. These two spiritual fruits do not come accidentally in our life. The Holy Spirit produces them in us as He directs our thoughts heavenward in our quiet times before the God. As we have already seen, the Lord Jesus set the example for us. He retreated from the crowds to be alone with His Heavenly Father. Can we afford to do less? When I fail to spend time with the Lord I begin to falter in my spiritual walk and I fail the very ones who are the objects of my ministry. How foolish of me to ever think that I am a spiritual giant who can take on the worldly Goliath without the blessing of the Lord upon me. A blessing that can only time from time in His presence. Brethren, “the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak” (Matt. 26:41). Let us encourage one another to maintain a quiet time with God each day. Only in such an hour will we be able to follow in spirit the word of Eli to Samuel, “Speak, LORD; for thy servant heareth” (1 Samuel 3:9). As we approach a new year I can think of no better resolution than to be resolved that no one or nothing will come between us and the blessing of sweet fellowship with our Savior.

God bless you all,

Pastor Tom

AND CAN IT BE

And can it be that I should gain
an interest in the Savior's blood!
Died he for me? who caused his pain!
For me? who him to death pursued?
Amazing love! How can it be
that thou, my God, shouldst die for me?
These words are very familiar to those of us who still love the old hymns of the faith. It is one of my personal favorites. Penned long ago by Charles Wesley, this hymn still provokes me to consider afresh the depth of the rich mercy of God. How Can It Be that the immortal God should take upon Himself the form of lowly man, and shed His precious blood for grievous sinners? Why should He who did no sin (2 Cor. 5:21) face the bar of Divine justice on Calvary’s cross so that I can stand before the highest court in heaven clothed in robes of righteousness (Rev. 19:8) ? In the futility of my own world of thought I have no answer for such questions. However, from the inspired Word of God I gleam the sacred truth that His heart of love is the stream out of which such mercy flows. “In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins” (I John 4:9,10). Little wonder Wesley could exclaim, “Amazing love! How Can It be! What makes this love so amazing is the unconditional nature of it. It was extended to us when we did not deserve it. It was a love bestowed upon a world of men, women, and children from every class and culture who had one thing in common – a rebellious heart. We are sinners by nature, and sinners by choice. Yes, that is our spiritual condition; so how profound, how glorious is the truth that “God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Rom. 5:8). If you and I could meet the greatest philanthropists of the past and present, we would find no comparison to the love of God. No human being could love, has loved, or will ever love like God has loved us. Because He is a Supreme Being, His love is the ultimate love. Because He is infinite, His love cannot be measured by any human standard. Because He is holy, His love is without any impurity. Because He is immutable, His love for us will never falter. Because He is compassionate, His love is a tender and gracious love. Because He is Perfect, his love has a beauty to it that is incomprehensible. Because He is timeless, His love will never end. What more can I say! Such love is the greatest gift I possess, the greatest joy I know. And, my greatest desire is that others may come to know this wonderful love of God, manifest in the person of Jesus Christ, “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” (John 3:16). May God be forever praised for the gift of His love.

No condemnation now I dread; Jesus, and all in him, is mine;

alive in him, my living Head, and clothed in righteousness divine,

bold I approach the eternal throne, and claim the crown, through Christ my own.

Rejoicing in the knowledge that my sins have been forgiven,

Pastor Tom

2 Cor. 13:14 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen.

NO GREATER JOY!

The apostle John expressed his shepherd’s heart in a simple sentence found in his third epistle. To a dear friend named Gaius, John wrote, “ I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth” (verse 4). To walk in the truth simply means to live consistent with the truth you have received. "I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called" (Ephesians 4:1). Christian parents can readily identify with John’s sentiments. Every pastor who serves in a local church hopes to realize the very same joy. But why should John’s joy be tied to the obedience of another brother in Christ? I believe it's because John rejoiced to see God glorified in the lives of His redeemed people. When a Christian leads a holy life in humble submission to the truth, God’s might transforming power is revealed. Just as the heavens above declare the glory of God (Psalm 19:1), the glory of God is seen on earth when a child of God walks in newness of life. He or she becomes a “living epistle” (2 Cor. 3:2). A living epistle is an open book that the unconverted read. This book communicates a message of hope which magnifies God’s saving grace to a spiritually dark world held captive by Satan. It declares that the Lord who brought forth a beautiful creation out of nothing, is the one who alone can bring beauty out of the ashes of shattered lives. Thus, we find Peter admonishing the true pilgrims of this world to live a ‘noble life’ among the pagans (the lost) so that they may observe our good works and one day be counted among those who glorify God (1 Peter 2:12). Brethren, the eyes of many without Christ are on us. I pray that we bring joy to one another and to the Lord by following the example of Gaius, “walking in the truth” .

To God be the glory!

Pastor Tom

FOR ALL THINGS GIVE THANKS

The time of year has come when once again Americans will gather together with family and friends and celebrate Thanksgiving Day. We certainly have many reasons to be a thankful people as we "count our blessings", but how much of the conversation around the table or elsewhere in our homes will actually take the form of praise toward the one who is the source of these blessings. Dear brethren, if we are careful we can easily fail in this regard. This is why we are admonished by David in Psalm 103:1-2 to, "bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:".

Notice that David reminds us to take account of "all his benefits". If we are honest we must admit that we seldom meditate on 'all the blessings' that have come to us from the hand of God. Were we to compromise a list of past, present, and future blessings how great a list it would be! It certainly would include all the material things we possess, but far more than such good & plenteous things are the spiritual riches which are ours in Jesus Christ (Eph. 1:3). Surely the greatest of our spiritual riches is what David references in verses three and four of the above mentioned Psalm, " 3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases 4 Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;". Ponder those thoughts for just a few moments and your heart must swell up with praise and thanksgiving to God. He has forgiven all of our transgressions, he has healed a heart ravaged by sin, and made it a fit abode for His Spirit. He has redeemed our life from eternal destruction, and crowned us with His lovingkindness and tender mercies. Blessings like these are not deserved. They cannot be earned. They come to us from the gracious hand of God who alone is full of goodness. Child of God, on this Thanksgiving Day, find a quiet place where you can be alone with God. Meditate on all that He has give to you, bow your knee, and render unto Him praise and thanks for having provided all that you need in this life and the life to come.

1 Cor. 2:9

But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

2 Cor. 9:15

Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you,

Pastor Tom

BLESSED FELLOWSHIP

One of the great blessings of the Christian life is the joy of spending time with other believers. I have experienced many such wonderful times of Christian fellowship. The word fellowship in the original language is 'koinonia' which etymologically has to do with something people have in common. For instance, Paul spoke of Titus as"mine own son after the common faith:" (Titus 1:4). Jude verse 3 speaks of a common salvation. One of the earliest Christian documents, the Apostles' Creed contains the words, "I believe in the communion of saints." This communion is based on the union of the sinner to Christ Jesus by faith. A.W. Tozer said, "Whoever is born of God is one with everyone else who is born of God. Just as gold is always gold, wherever and in whatever shape it is found, and every detached scrap of gold belongs to the true family and is composed of the same element, so every regenerate soul belongs to the universal Christian community and to the fellowship of the saints." The picture of the early Christian community in Acts 2 captures Tozer's sentiments beautifully,"Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers" (verses 41,42). How marvelous, how wonderful is God's love to toward us when manifested by other believers with whom we enjoy such a strong spiritual bond. Natural family ties could not be stronger because Christian fellowship is more than just being together, it is sharing things together for the cause of Christ. We have learned to "Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep" (Romans 12:15). We have learned to "bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ (Galatians 6:2). We have learned to suffer together, pray together, worship together, and wait together for the return of our Savior. No wonder the disciple whom Jesus loved could write, "That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ " (1 John 1:3). Having walked with Jesus and seen the greateness of His power and grace, John wanted others to come to know the spiritual riches of fellowship with Him and in so doing, the riches of fellowship among those who constitute His family. I have experienced those two great blessings in my life, fellowship with Christ, and precious moments with other saints whom He has redeemed. My thanks to all of you for your fellowship in Jesus Christ.

To Him be the glory forever,

Pastor Tom

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST GOD'S WORD?

There are many reasons why I trust the Bible. I will not take the time to list them, but rather focus on one very significant thing that gives the Bible credibility. To put it succinctly, the Bible has "staying power". Upon reading a brief commentary on the book of Jeremiah which I have been studying I was struck by a comment from Thomas Watson. Watson was an English clergyman (1620-1686) best known for A Body of Divinity, long regarded as a Puritan masterpiece. Watson's love and defense of the holy Scriptures was prominent in his writings. Consider for example what he said about the ‘staying power of the Bible’: “We may know the Scripture to be the Word of God by its miraculous preservation in all ages. The holy Scriptures are the richest jewel Christ has left us; and the church of God has so kept these public records of heaven, that they have not been lost. The Word of God has never wanted enemies to oppose it, and, if possible to extirpate it…. But God has preserved this blessed Book inviolable to this day. The devil and his agents have been blowing at Scripture light, but could never blow it out; a clear sign that it was lighted from heaven.”

I give a hearty “amen” to Watson’s praise of God’s Word. There are few things in life that have real “staying power". Material things come and go, the old are cast out and the new ushered in, but we can be thankful that “The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever" (Isaiah 40:8). Take time to enjoy God’s Word today and you will discover that it will give you “staying power” in the spiritual battles we face daily.

Psalm 119:147 I prevented the dawning of the morning, and cried: I hoped in thy word.
148 Mine eyes prevent the night watches, that I might meditate in thy word.

Blessings to you in Jesus name,

Pastor Tom

ELECTION DAY IS HERE

Today is election day in America. As a citizen of this country and a Christian committed to the Lordship of Christ, I believe it is my responsibility to vote for those candidates best qualified to serve all Americans, and defend this nation from all threats foreign and dosmetic. They must be men and women with the courage of conviction who will never capitulate their will to the will of the ungodly for political gain. I will look for candidates who will protect the rights of the unborn and fight for traditional family values that good Americans have long cherished. The Bible teaches that "righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people" (Pro.14:34). This being true, America may be tottering on the precipice. Yet, as I go to the polls I am optimistic. The optimism I retain is not because I believe that my choices will prevail, but because I believe that ultimately God's will must prevail. An ancient prophet in Israel declared, "blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his: And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: " (Daniel 2:20). This belief in the sovereignty of God in all realms of life is well established in the political sermons of the American founding era. Let us take up our patriotic duty and vote, bearing in mind Proverbs 21:1, "The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will." Evil may seem to be winning the day, but do not lose heart brothers and sisters in Christ. There is a day coming when "the kingdoms of this world will become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever" (Revelation 11:15). How we all long for that day when "the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea" (Habakkuk 2:14).


May God bless and keep you ever close to Him.

Pastor Tom

WHAT IF THERE WAS NO CHURCH!

We have all heard the expression "we don't appreciate what we have until we no longer have it." I know from experience that this has proven true many times in my life. We often fail to see the real worth of something until it is gone. Think for a moment what it would be like to suddenly lose someone you dearly loved. As a pastor I know it is easy to find fault with a church. I have had my fair share of complaints when I was on the other side of the pulpit. Now people sometimes share their complaints with me. To some degree they may be justified. There is no perfect church this side of heaven. No perfect pastor, no perfect way of worship. But what it would be like if you found yourself with no place to worship? No fellowship with other believers you once delighted in. No solemn assembly to publicly proclaim the goodness and glory of God. No place where you could gather together with the saints of God and go boldly before the throne of His grace in prayer. No exposition of the Word of Truth found in the Holy Scriptures. No communion around the Lord's Table. Would you not long to be back where you once enjoyed such spiritual refreshments for you soul? Brethren, I pray that we learn to appreciate all that God has given us in the place we call "our church. " Above all, may the Lord of the church, our Savior Jesus, be the one whom we seek to please and serve.

Pastor Tom

Hebrews 10:23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)
24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

A WORM IN THE APPLE

The following illustration serves to remind us to be aware of the origin and end result of sin.

Have you ever bitten into an apple and found a worm in it, and yet the outside of the apple showed no hole or entry point for the worm? How did the worm get inside the apple? Clearly he could not have burrowed in from the outside. The fact is that an insect lays an egg in the apple blossom. Some time later, the worm hatches in the heart of the apple, then eats his way out. Sin, like the worm, begins in the heart and finds a way out in thoughts, words, and actions.

Matthew 15:19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies:

Brothers and sisters I pray that we examine our hearts carefully and through the power of the Spirit of God within us, confess and forsake every sin. How many lives have been ruined by some seemingly little worm (sin) ?

Be on guard!

Pastor Tom

THINK ON THESE THINGS

If you spend any amount of time reading the newspaper or watching the news on television, your mind is filled with thoughts and images that evidence the reality of the fallen world in which we live. We hear of wars, terror threats, famine, the possibility of a nuclear holocaust, murders, corrupt & immoral politicians etc. Even the creation is in a state of bondage as Paul wrote in in Romans 8:22, "for we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now." On Sunday morning, October 16, 2006, a 6.6 magnitude earthquake struck the big island of Hawaii, a place that is called 'Paradise' in travel journals. Surely there is no paradise on earth. What can the child of God do to maintain a heavenly perspective which gives him hope and peace in the midst of the daily deluge of bad news? Fill your mind with the truth of God's Word. The promises of God and the teachings found in Scripture will give you a true joy while you are still present in a fallen world. Keep 'looking up' for your redemption (deliverance) is near (Luke 21:28).

Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. 9 Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.

May the peace of Christ Jesus be yours now and forever,

Pastor Tom

REAL CHRISTIANITY

How often have you heard it said that the world needs to see "Real Christianity" in action? Sometimes as we go about our daily business we forget the admonition of Scripture that we are living epistles (2 Corinthians 3:2). Recently I read an excerpt from a sermon by John Venn (1759-1813) that addresses this matter. Venn was pastor to William Wilberforce who converted to Christianity in 1785 and worked to abolish the slave trade in the British West Indies. Wilberforce was greatly influenced by Venn’s vision of a Christianity that truly impacts the culture. Here is what Venn preached:

"Let us be convinced that all prayer, all preaching, all knowledge, are but means to attain a superior end; and that end the sanctification of the heart and of all the principles on which we are daily acting. Till our Christianity appears in our conversation, in our business, in our pleasures, in the aims and objects of our life, we have not attained a conformity to the image of our Saviour, nor have we learned His Gospel aright".

1 John 3:18 My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.

Brother and sisters, let us learn the gospel aright and preach it in word and deed for the glory of Christ.

Pastor Tom

REDEEMING THE TIME

Good morning!

It's the start of another new day. Last week a fellow believer gave me a very special gift. It was an hourglass with a small brass plate on it with the words - Redeeming the time because the days are evil. Ephesians 5:16. For the past year I had a sticky note with that verse pasted on my computer monitor. It is so easy to 'waste time', but we as believers living in an evil day are to be good stewards of the time God has given to us. What will we do with our time for His glory? One very urgent thing we can do is "pray without ceasing" (1 Thess. 5:17). The heavenly minded Christian is to maintain an attitude of prayer and praise while he walks the pilgrim path. In so doing we will always be "sensitive" to the Spirit of God and ready to share the light of God's Word with those in darkness.

Matthew 5:14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

A debtor to grace,

Pastor Tom

NO GREATER THAN HIS PRAYER LIFE

It is easy to preach about prayer and talk to others about the need for prayer, but hard to pray. The title of this post is taken from a bookmark that I have on my bulletin board that sits above my desk. On the back are the words of Leonard Ravenhill who said, "the church has many organizers, but few agonizers; many who pay, but few who pray; many resters, but few wrestlers; many who are enterprising, but few who are interceding. People who are not praying are playing.... in the matter of effective praying, never have so many left so much to so few... Brethren, let us pray.

But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer (1 Peter 4:7).

How may I pray for you?

Pastor Tom