There is an ever increasing number of studies, reports, articles written, and many other publications being put out about how is the church going to reach the millennial generation. So, I thought I'd throw my two cents in and see if anyone has anything to say about this. First, let me say that I am part of the millennial generation. My experience is not typical at all, I've grown up in the church, went to Christian school, Christian college, and so on. My experience has had a lot of perks, but it also has had a few downsides: one of them is not being exposed to many non-Christian friends who I could have learned from and shared the gospel with. I would say those in their mid to late thirties kind of tow the line between being part of Gen X and being a millennial. Since, I am 28 I fall nicely into that camp. My experience and ideas in no way should be considered dogmatic, but the hope is that they will inspire and continue in my mind very meaningful conversations. Here's what I see:
1) Millennials desire genuine relationships with people of all ages.
In an information, technology age there is nothing that will ever be able to replace genuine relationships and friendships with other people. This generation is faced with many issues that previous generations haven't faced to this degree. Good paying jobs are fewer, the cost of living is higher, and college debt grows each and every year. Most millennials desire a church where they can develop genuine friendships with people of all ages and feel that they are a valued part of the life of the church. A big mistake most churches make is asking or seeking the perspective or opinions of its teens and young adults.
One big step of faith we can all take is to seek to develop a friendship with someone brand new that is either older or younger than we are. Be honest and open of your church's current situation, do people of all ages have a chance to make friendships and relationships here? Does our church value the opinions and ideas of the entire congregation? Good preaching and great music should be a goal of every congregation, but from what I've seen what keeps people coming back is a sense of welcoming and a sense they belong at your church.
2) Millennials are very big into social justice issues.
Jesus was the ultimate champion of social justice. His desire was to preach hope to the poor, give sight to the blind, make the lame walk, and always proclaim the Kingdom of God is at hand. Churches when they reach millennials correctly tap into their passion for social justice and connect it to the great commission, properly framing issues of social justice as a way of reaching the lost and broken as Jesus would have. Social justice issues can be dividing in churches and especially among political and conservative lines, but I urge all churches and church leaders to submit their ideas and social justice areas of enthusiasm to the Lordship of Jesus and wisdom of the Holy Spirit, because they are hardly ever wrong in their leading and guiding of churches and church leaders.
3) Freedom of Expression is huge to Millennials
Young adults are very unique as they are exposed to more ideas, thoughts, and expressions with the explosion of the Internet in the past 20 years. They desire a worship experience that lets them be themselves and explore who God is to them. The tough part is that many older folks' worship experience doesn't always line up to millennials desires or expectations in a worship setting. So, the question who is right? Well, the short answer is that both parties are. God is big enough and grand enough to be worshiped in many different ways and in many different styles and formats. It will take creativity, prayer, conversation, and guidance from a variety of sources to allow your worship experience to be a place where millennials and the older generations can feel comfortable and have the ability to express themselves.
One great step leaders can take is to begin the conversation worship at its core and our Christian lives at their core aren't about what we can get but rather in what we can give back to God for all that He has so graciously given us. Unfortunately, there isn't a one size fits all model that works to reach all millennials. My encouragement is to be welcoming, value their opinion, and pray every day that God would allow and guide to be faithful and genuine in all you do.
Thursday, November 13, 2014
Thursday, November 6, 2014
Brittany Maynard
Many of you reading this have come across the story about the Oregon woman, Brittany Maynard, who was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer and chose to end her life this past Saturday. This has been a story that I've been wrestling with for about a month now because of its complex issues and what the Bible says and doesn't say about it. This is an issue I have a feeling will stay with me for quite some time, and I may and probably do differ in my views and beliefs than some of you reading this, but let's take a closer look at some of the issues presented here. As we delve into the issue let me be perfectly clear, when we are in the midst of horrific ordeals such as Ms. Maynard and her family was that can and does change our thinking.
1) Life is an incredible gift from God.
David reminds us in Psalm 139 that God knows us (vs.1), has created our inmost being (vs. 13), knit us together in our mother's womb (vs. 13), and that we are fearfully and wonderfully made (vs. 14). This chapter as well as many others highlights God's high view of human life and the care and time it took to create everything on the planet.
I'm guessing it is not an accident that God placed you on this earth in a specific family, in a specific location, with specific parents, and I think you get the point. Now, I will admit it is not fair that some are born into a life of riches and trust funds while others are born into a family that doesn't know where their next meal is coming from. My best advice if that bothers you is to voice your concerns to God about that and see where he will lead you.
If we carry that thought out that it is no accident that God put you on this earth at a certain time and certain location, we can also be pretty certain that God will take us off this earth into life eternal when it is our time. Now, unfortunately we as human beings can often make many foolish mistakes and sadly end life before our time is up. Even if it is just a few days or moments, I know that every day on this earth is a precious gift that should be cherished. My fear is that God was going to be glorified in some way in Brittany's life before her God chose to take her. But, now God will have to use someone else.
2) Her struggle points to the truth that this world is not as it was intended to be.
Death, pain, disease, hurt, brokenness, disappointment, and shame were not all part of the original creation. Could God wipe all of them out? Of course he could, but then God would also have to wipe and eliminate sin and when that happens we lose our ability to freely choose to love and serve God. So, we're left in a world that is controlled by an all-powerful, compassionate God but also has disease, death, and sin running rampant.
The most crucial lesson of all is not for you to understand the struggle or attempt to rationalize why you are struggling but rather it is for you to know that God hears, feels, walks with you, and loves you no less in your struggles. Our faith needs to always hold on to the incredible truth that the world we live will one day be right and perfect by an all powerful, all mighty God.
3) We can learn to love and disagree all at the same time.
One of the most damaging things that happens in many Christian circles is division over ideas. In the aftermath of Ms. Maynard's decision there will be many conversations in church Sunday school classes, on college campuses, over coffee, and in many other places. It is bound to happen this a big discussion and at times can be a very hot button issue. However, this is not a deal breaker for Christians in being in community with each other. This issue is incredibly difficult, especially for those who are facing a terminal diagnosis. Our prayers and hearts go out to Brittany's family for healing and comfort and for wisdom from the Holy Spirit to properly discern God's will for this complex issue.
1) Life is an incredible gift from God.
David reminds us in Psalm 139 that God knows us (vs.1), has created our inmost being (vs. 13), knit us together in our mother's womb (vs. 13), and that we are fearfully and wonderfully made (vs. 14). This chapter as well as many others highlights God's high view of human life and the care and time it took to create everything on the planet.
I'm guessing it is not an accident that God placed you on this earth in a specific family, in a specific location, with specific parents, and I think you get the point. Now, I will admit it is not fair that some are born into a life of riches and trust funds while others are born into a family that doesn't know where their next meal is coming from. My best advice if that bothers you is to voice your concerns to God about that and see where he will lead you.
If we carry that thought out that it is no accident that God put you on this earth at a certain time and certain location, we can also be pretty certain that God will take us off this earth into life eternal when it is our time. Now, unfortunately we as human beings can often make many foolish mistakes and sadly end life before our time is up. Even if it is just a few days or moments, I know that every day on this earth is a precious gift that should be cherished. My fear is that God was going to be glorified in some way in Brittany's life before her God chose to take her. But, now God will have to use someone else.
2) Her struggle points to the truth that this world is not as it was intended to be.
Death, pain, disease, hurt, brokenness, disappointment, and shame were not all part of the original creation. Could God wipe all of them out? Of course he could, but then God would also have to wipe and eliminate sin and when that happens we lose our ability to freely choose to love and serve God. So, we're left in a world that is controlled by an all-powerful, compassionate God but also has disease, death, and sin running rampant.
The most crucial lesson of all is not for you to understand the struggle or attempt to rationalize why you are struggling but rather it is for you to know that God hears, feels, walks with you, and loves you no less in your struggles. Our faith needs to always hold on to the incredible truth that the world we live will one day be right and perfect by an all powerful, all mighty God.
3) We can learn to love and disagree all at the same time.
One of the most damaging things that happens in many Christian circles is division over ideas. In the aftermath of Ms. Maynard's decision there will be many conversations in church Sunday school classes, on college campuses, over coffee, and in many other places. It is bound to happen this a big discussion and at times can be a very hot button issue. However, this is not a deal breaker for Christians in being in community with each other. This issue is incredibly difficult, especially for those who are facing a terminal diagnosis. Our prayers and hearts go out to Brittany's family for healing and comfort and for wisdom from the Holy Spirit to properly discern God's will for this complex issue.
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
Annise Parker
Most of you have heard in the news of the report that Houston mayor, Annise Parker, has subpoenaed the sermons of local Houston pastors that mention her name or that mention a local city ordinance which many pastors and churches aren't in favor of. This event has caused much public outcry over the government's relationship to faith based institutions and how far is too far in government reach into religion?
There are lots of issues surrounding these actions, and I will not for once ever admit to being an expert in the realm of politics, law, or even most times at religion. However, there are quite a few things to look at in the case of Annise Parker.
1) Always look at the big picture. When I first heard this my proverbial claws came out. I uttered phrases such as, "How dare she?" "Who does she think she is?" And even a few more phrases that I'm not very proud of. But, oh the wonders of social media, one of my good buddies Scott posted on Facebook that this subpoena of sermons might be a golden opportunity for Annise Parker to hear the incredible news that Jesus Christ saves sinners. (1 Timothy 1:15) Because, I think one big mistake many of us make and that I made when I first heard the news is that we let little annoyances or disturbances interrupt the incredible story that Jesus' blood and power calls all sinners to repent. My advice is to never lose sight of the big picture. People who annoy us, irritate us, and even disagree with us need to know and come to home to know Jesus forgives their sin. That's the big picture we all need to remember no matter what.
2) God is greater than all of the problems we all face.
I will admit that I'm one of the first people who gets upset when I hear that another Nativity scene gets taken down, or someone has an issue with a Cross in the town square. But, let me say that despite all of the struggles that Christians have had in recent years, we need to remember that no matter what God has the final word in our lives and for all of human history.
It would be incredibly nice to know all the twists and turns in the story, but if we did there wouldn't be any need for us to have faith. We don't know the entire story, but we know that the author is good and loves us and we know in the end Jesus wins.
3) Preach the gospel with your life.
God's Not Dead is another of the many quality Christian movies that have been shot and produced over the past few years. In the movie college freshman Josh Wheaton is challenged in his philosophy class to prove to his class that in fact God is not dead. Well, the movie brings about some very compelling facts and arguments for the existence of God. But, what I want to share is a quote earlier on in the movie that many may have missed. When considering whether or not to prove God's existence Josh goes and talks with a pastor, and the pastor tells him this (paraphrased), "If you take this challenge, this may be the only time some of the students in the room hear the gospel." What an incredible idea! Difficult times, opposition from those who disagree, and problems can be opportunities to communicate the gospel to an unbelieving world. Remember that tough times don't build character, they reveal the character that is already there. Houston pastors can have an amazing show of character as the situation with Annise Parker continues to unfold.
There are lots of issues surrounding these actions, and I will not for once ever admit to being an expert in the realm of politics, law, or even most times at religion. However, there are quite a few things to look at in the case of Annise Parker.
1) Always look at the big picture. When I first heard this my proverbial claws came out. I uttered phrases such as, "How dare she?" "Who does she think she is?" And even a few more phrases that I'm not very proud of. But, oh the wonders of social media, one of my good buddies Scott posted on Facebook that this subpoena of sermons might be a golden opportunity for Annise Parker to hear the incredible news that Jesus Christ saves sinners. (1 Timothy 1:15) Because, I think one big mistake many of us make and that I made when I first heard the news is that we let little annoyances or disturbances interrupt the incredible story that Jesus' blood and power calls all sinners to repent. My advice is to never lose sight of the big picture. People who annoy us, irritate us, and even disagree with us need to know and come to home to know Jesus forgives their sin. That's the big picture we all need to remember no matter what.
2) God is greater than all of the problems we all face.
I will admit that I'm one of the first people who gets upset when I hear that another Nativity scene gets taken down, or someone has an issue with a Cross in the town square. But, let me say that despite all of the struggles that Christians have had in recent years, we need to remember that no matter what God has the final word in our lives and for all of human history.
It would be incredibly nice to know all the twists and turns in the story, but if we did there wouldn't be any need for us to have faith. We don't know the entire story, but we know that the author is good and loves us and we know in the end Jesus wins.
3) Preach the gospel with your life.
God's Not Dead is another of the many quality Christian movies that have been shot and produced over the past few years. In the movie college freshman Josh Wheaton is challenged in his philosophy class to prove to his class that in fact God is not dead. Well, the movie brings about some very compelling facts and arguments for the existence of God. But, what I want to share is a quote earlier on in the movie that many may have missed. When considering whether or not to prove God's existence Josh goes and talks with a pastor, and the pastor tells him this (paraphrased), "If you take this challenge, this may be the only time some of the students in the room hear the gospel." What an incredible idea! Difficult times, opposition from those who disagree, and problems can be opportunities to communicate the gospel to an unbelieving world. Remember that tough times don't build character, they reveal the character that is already there. Houston pastors can have an amazing show of character as the situation with Annise Parker continues to unfold.
Thursday, October 9, 2014
Gone Girl
Without a doubt you've seen previews or heard talk of the newest movie that just came out last Friday: Gone Girl. I have not seen the movie, so this review is of the book which I finished about a week ago. In this review I won't spoil any plot twists or the ending. So, let's dive in here.
Gillian Flynn's 2012 smash hit, Gone Girl, highlights the story of Nick and Amy Dunne. This couple moves from New York to Missouri to care for Nick's mother and father after the economy crashes. The couple struggles to adjust to life in a Missouri small town, but they do manage and Nick opens a bar with his twin sister with money that Amy received from her trust fund.
The story really picks up on the day of their fifth wedding anniversary, Nick gets a call at the bar from his neighbor that his front door is wide open. Confused and slightly alarmed Nick rushes home to find his house in a mess and his wife completely gone. Frantically, Nick calls the local police and then the search begins! Over the next several days Nick is questioned several times by the police, his past begins to unfold more before the reader's eyes, and he desperately searches for anything that will prove that he is not responsible for her disappearance.
Nick's search takes him everywhere as he delves into Amy's past, meets some shady and some interesting characters, hires a lawyer, defends his actions, has his past behavior unearthed, and it all leads up to the answer of the million dollar question: who exactly is Amy Dunne and what is she capable of?
There were certain parts of the book I really loved and others I didn't care for that much. I didn't share as much because I don't want to spoil anything if you plan on reading the book or seeing the movie. The previews do make the movie look extremely compelling. In terms of quality of work I'd give the book 4 out of 5 stars. Gillian Flynn's style in this book is unique, and I actually really enjoyed it. The pace is fast, and you really do feel in the middle of a missing person search. I will let you decide about the ending, I won't say much in here about my opinion on it. In terms of overall family friendliness this book gets a 1 out of 5 stars. There are some very mature themes in the book (drugs, sex, rape), and there is pervasive language throughout the work. I did enjoy it, but I had higher expectations. I'm giving it a 3 out of 5 overall.
Gillian Flynn's 2012 smash hit, Gone Girl, highlights the story of Nick and Amy Dunne. This couple moves from New York to Missouri to care for Nick's mother and father after the economy crashes. The couple struggles to adjust to life in a Missouri small town, but they do manage and Nick opens a bar with his twin sister with money that Amy received from her trust fund.
The story really picks up on the day of their fifth wedding anniversary, Nick gets a call at the bar from his neighbor that his front door is wide open. Confused and slightly alarmed Nick rushes home to find his house in a mess and his wife completely gone. Frantically, Nick calls the local police and then the search begins! Over the next several days Nick is questioned several times by the police, his past begins to unfold more before the reader's eyes, and he desperately searches for anything that will prove that he is not responsible for her disappearance.
Nick's search takes him everywhere as he delves into Amy's past, meets some shady and some interesting characters, hires a lawyer, defends his actions, has his past behavior unearthed, and it all leads up to the answer of the million dollar question: who exactly is Amy Dunne and what is she capable of?
There were certain parts of the book I really loved and others I didn't care for that much. I didn't share as much because I don't want to spoil anything if you plan on reading the book or seeing the movie. The previews do make the movie look extremely compelling. In terms of quality of work I'd give the book 4 out of 5 stars. Gillian Flynn's style in this book is unique, and I actually really enjoyed it. The pace is fast, and you really do feel in the middle of a missing person search. I will let you decide about the ending, I won't say much in here about my opinion on it. In terms of overall family friendliness this book gets a 1 out of 5 stars. There are some very mature themes in the book (drugs, sex, rape), and there is pervasive language throughout the work. I did enjoy it, but I had higher expectations. I'm giving it a 3 out of 5 overall.
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
On Mom's Night Out
Movies speak to us in powerful way. Most of us can remember seeing Simba take back pride rock for the first time or the chill we got when we heard Elsa sing, "Let it Go" for the very first time. Well, I always want you to see this blog as being a place where it encourages you to watch family friendly movies. I'm bringing you one right now, Mom's Night Out.
This movie has just come out on DVD, Blu-Ray, and Redbox video within the last six weeks. It is the movie: Mom's Night Out!!!
Mom's Night Out is the humorous tale of Allyson (Sarah Drew, Grey's Anatomy), mom of three little ones, and her friends Sondra (Patricia Heaton), and Izzy as they embark on a rare but much anticipated mom's night out. The ladies leave their children in care of their husbands as they go out for the evening. Allyson's great plans are quickly derailed when their reservation is lost, the other ladies spend too much time on their cell phones, and when she discovers that her nephew is missing. Come join the fun with a great cast, lots of laughs, and a wonderful reminder that being a mom is truly one of the hardest but most rewarding jobs any woman could ever have.
This movie has much more than I described, because I want you to watch and enjoy for yourself. In terms of content and quality I would give the movie three out of five stars. The acting and quality of Christian movies has gone way up in the last five years. This movie is a great step in that direction. It won't be in the conversation during Academy award time, but it's a fun family movie that is appropriate for all ages. I would rate it 4.5 out of five stars in terms of family friendliness. There is no language, violence, or sexual issues at all in the movie. But, the characters do find themselves in places such as a tattoo parlor and police station.
This movie has just come out on DVD, Blu-Ray, and Redbox video within the last six weeks. It is the movie: Mom's Night Out!!!
Mom's Night Out is the humorous tale of Allyson (Sarah Drew, Grey's Anatomy), mom of three little ones, and her friends Sondra (Patricia Heaton), and Izzy as they embark on a rare but much anticipated mom's night out. The ladies leave their children in care of their husbands as they go out for the evening. Allyson's great plans are quickly derailed when their reservation is lost, the other ladies spend too much time on their cell phones, and when she discovers that her nephew is missing. Come join the fun with a great cast, lots of laughs, and a wonderful reminder that being a mom is truly one of the hardest but most rewarding jobs any woman could ever have.
This movie has much more than I described, because I want you to watch and enjoy for yourself. In terms of content and quality I would give the movie three out of five stars. The acting and quality of Christian movies has gone way up in the last five years. This movie is a great step in that direction. It won't be in the conversation during Academy award time, but it's a fun family movie that is appropriate for all ages. I would rate it 4.5 out of five stars in terms of family friendliness. There is no language, violence, or sexual issues at all in the movie. But, the characters do find themselves in places such as a tattoo parlor and police station.
Monday, August 11, 2014
Deception Number #8 God Won't Come Through
Stepping out in faith is never easy. Taking a risk for God often involves putting yourself out there and not knowing how the other person will react. But, we're called as the people of God to go and be the witnesses of what Jesus has done to the entire ends of the earth! What a large area for us to cover. The task seems daunting, but we're reminded that we as the body of Christ go in God's name and we work and minister in God's power. But, if you're like me we struggle in living out our faith in bold, tangible ways. If that describes you, then you're reading the perfect blog post. Here are a few things that come to mind:)
1) Learn to recognize the evil one's voice.
The evil one has a knack of reminding us of all the areas where we often fall short, areas where we're tempted, and past failures and missed expectations. The voice can take many different shapes and forms, but one thing is consistent the evil one's voice will always remind you that you're not good enough, not worthy enough, not lovable enough, and you're not as good of a human being as you should be. His tactics are deceitful and meant to destroy you, but they don't have to.The evil one is very sly and very cunning, make sure you know how to recognize his voice and his ways. A few good suggestions in helping you recognizing the evil one's voice and tactics are as follows: 1) Learn to discuss deep moments of your life with someone you trust. Almost all of us have some person in our lives that has wisdom, experience, and has our best interest in mind. Look to discuss big areas of growth and struggle with this person.
2) Fill your life with the voice of Jesus. There's currently a war going on for your heart. If that weren't so evil wouldn't be flashing all over the news, the Internet, radio, and sadly evil has become even more present in our schools. However, if what we believe about God is true, and that if we know God to be above all and over all creation, then we know that God's voice will have the last word. Learn to fill your life with goodness, love, beauty, grace, and forgiveness. It may require that you change your music tastes, block out a channel on the TV, stop going to places that tempt and cause you to stumble, and even more radically you might need to give up a friend or two. Paul reminds us so powerfully in Philippians 4:8, "8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."
3) Be very careful about basing your understanding of God on emotions. As we dive into our final point let me first say that emotions are a good thing. But, be very careful because our emotions can easily deceive us. I urge you to fall in love with God with your emotions, feel the love and warmth of God's embrace, but be careful if your entire understanding of God is based on emotion, because emotions can change. Emotions are often based on experiences, and as we know as followers of Jesus and people on this earth. Emotions can change. My hope is that we would develop and have a growing, firm relationship with Jesus that can withstand the greatest success and also the greatest defeat, thus knowing that God loves us and God will no matter what come through for us, it often won't be the way we hoped or in our timeframe, but God will come through.
1) Learn to recognize the evil one's voice.
The evil one has a knack of reminding us of all the areas where we often fall short, areas where we're tempted, and past failures and missed expectations. The voice can take many different shapes and forms, but one thing is consistent the evil one's voice will always remind you that you're not good enough, not worthy enough, not lovable enough, and you're not as good of a human being as you should be. His tactics are deceitful and meant to destroy you, but they don't have to.The evil one is very sly and very cunning, make sure you know how to recognize his voice and his ways. A few good suggestions in helping you recognizing the evil one's voice and tactics are as follows: 1) Learn to discuss deep moments of your life with someone you trust. Almost all of us have some person in our lives that has wisdom, experience, and has our best interest in mind. Look to discuss big areas of growth and struggle with this person.
2) Fill your life with the voice of Jesus. There's currently a war going on for your heart. If that weren't so evil wouldn't be flashing all over the news, the Internet, radio, and sadly evil has become even more present in our schools. However, if what we believe about God is true, and that if we know God to be above all and over all creation, then we know that God's voice will have the last word. Learn to fill your life with goodness, love, beauty, grace, and forgiveness. It may require that you change your music tastes, block out a channel on the TV, stop going to places that tempt and cause you to stumble, and even more radically you might need to give up a friend or two. Paul reminds us so powerfully in Philippians 4:8, "8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."
3) Be very careful about basing your understanding of God on emotions. As we dive into our final point let me first say that emotions are a good thing. But, be very careful because our emotions can easily deceive us. I urge you to fall in love with God with your emotions, feel the love and warmth of God's embrace, but be careful if your entire understanding of God is based on emotion, because emotions can change. Emotions are often based on experiences, and as we know as followers of Jesus and people on this earth. Emotions can change. My hope is that we would develop and have a growing, firm relationship with Jesus that can withstand the greatest success and also the greatest defeat, thus knowing that God loves us and God will no matter what come through for us, it often won't be the way we hoped or in our timeframe, but God will come through.
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
A Look at the Word of God 1 Timothy 1
As we dive into some very applicable teaching by Paul, let me say that these are some of my favorite letters in the entire Bible. What Paul imparts to Timothy is both great spiritual advice and also great advice for a young person growing up and discovering who they are. Let's dive into some of the teaching Paul gives us in 1 Timothy.
1) We go in God's name. The first two verses are so crucial in this letter and in most of Paul's letters. Because, what Paul does is he sets the stage and gives the reader a reminder of whose name we serve in and by whose power we thrive. Paul at the start of every letter wants all believers to know that Jesus is the source of his identity, his purpose, his thoughts, and his every move. His life would be fully subject to Jesus in all areas and in all circumstances! What a powerful witness and testimony! I hope that as we dive into every single one of Paul's letters we're reminded of the incredible truth that God is calling the shots and is the author of our story.
2) Know the truth, preach it, practice it, and do it in love. One of the most difficult/dangerous forms of thinking is the current ideology infecting a lot of thought in our country today. Not all thoughts are correct, not all answers are true, and just because someone says it or believes it that doesn't make it right. Paul discusses in 1:8-11 that the law is for the sinner not the righteous. But, his charge in vs. 5 is the key to this entire passage, " The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith." The command Paul gave Timothy was to know the truth and seek to lovingly correct those who were preaching and living into falsehoods. The truth will win out eventually, since God is still on the throne, but God is calling all of us just as Paul reminded Timothy to stand up against the falsehoods of the day with love and grace.
3) 1 Timothy 1:15 is the crucial verse probably in all of Paul's theology. God's business is first and foremost not to judge, not to hate, not to condemn at the first. But, I will say that God is a righteous judge and will judge sin, but God's first in the business of saving sinners even the worst of all sinners. Paul wants Timothy to be encouraged and to know that God saved him from a life of hatred, judgment, and murder. If God saved a one of the worst sinners of all in Paul, God can save everyone, loves everyone, believes in everyone, and has a bold purpose for anyone. Paul charged Timothy to take up the torch and be the one that communicates this powerful message to all. God is filled with love, and His love is powerful enough to save anyone.
4) Vs. 18 is very convicting and gives us something to think about. Paul uses the word battle and encourages Timothy that he has been given all of this so that he might be able to fight the battle well. Paul's use of battle brings up an interesting thought I just want you to mull over for awhile. Are we doing something wrong if the world speaks well of the church? Didn't Jesus say that He chose us out of the world and that is why the world hates us?
1) We go in God's name. The first two verses are so crucial in this letter and in most of Paul's letters. Because, what Paul does is he sets the stage and gives the reader a reminder of whose name we serve in and by whose power we thrive. Paul at the start of every letter wants all believers to know that Jesus is the source of his identity, his purpose, his thoughts, and his every move. His life would be fully subject to Jesus in all areas and in all circumstances! What a powerful witness and testimony! I hope that as we dive into every single one of Paul's letters we're reminded of the incredible truth that God is calling the shots and is the author of our story.
2) Know the truth, preach it, practice it, and do it in love. One of the most difficult/dangerous forms of thinking is the current ideology infecting a lot of thought in our country today. Not all thoughts are correct, not all answers are true, and just because someone says it or believes it that doesn't make it right. Paul discusses in 1:8-11 that the law is for the sinner not the righteous. But, his charge in vs. 5 is the key to this entire passage, " The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith." The command Paul gave Timothy was to know the truth and seek to lovingly correct those who were preaching and living into falsehoods. The truth will win out eventually, since God is still on the throne, but God is calling all of us just as Paul reminded Timothy to stand up against the falsehoods of the day with love and grace.
3) 1 Timothy 1:15 is the crucial verse probably in all of Paul's theology. God's business is first and foremost not to judge, not to hate, not to condemn at the first. But, I will say that God is a righteous judge and will judge sin, but God's first in the business of saving sinners even the worst of all sinners. Paul wants Timothy to be encouraged and to know that God saved him from a life of hatred, judgment, and murder. If God saved a one of the worst sinners of all in Paul, God can save everyone, loves everyone, believes in everyone, and has a bold purpose for anyone. Paul charged Timothy to take up the torch and be the one that communicates this powerful message to all. God is filled with love, and His love is powerful enough to save anyone.
4) Vs. 18 is very convicting and gives us something to think about. Paul uses the word battle and encourages Timothy that he has been given all of this so that he might be able to fight the battle well. Paul's use of battle brings up an interesting thought I just want you to mull over for awhile. Are we doing something wrong if the world speaks well of the church? Didn't Jesus say that He chose us out of the world and that is why the world hates us?
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